Om Sham Shri Shanischaraya Namaha
Of the nine planets (nava grahas) utilized in Vedic astrology or Jyotish, Saturn is the slowest moving of them all. Known as “the slow mover”, Saturn typically inhabits a sign for 2.5 years. Definitely enough time for us to feel its impact in all our lives. Saturn has been retrograde in Libra since February 18. Today is the day that Saturn comes out of retrogression in Libra.
Retrogression is viewed as a sign of strength in Vedic astrology. A retrograde planet is moving backwards (or retrograde) in its apparent motion and thus makes it closer to the earth. The closer a planet is to the earth, the more that we may feel its planetary vibrations and impact.
Saturn, or Shani Maharaj as it is known, is considered to be “exalted” or in a very strong placement when it is Libra. As an exalted natural malefic, Saturn can be likened to a virulent storm. We know where it’s headed, but we can’t anticipate what damage it will leave it will leave in its wake.
As Saturn comes out of retrogression in Libra, it is a very slow moving yet fierce storm. It has to come to a complete stop to leave retrogression and go into direct or forward motion.
People in a planetary cycle (dasha or bhukti) can feel that things are moving painfully slow. There may be a feeling of heaviness or being stuck– either physically or emotionally.
Saturn is currently in the constellation or nakshatra of Svati. Svati relates to movement. With Saturn’s stationary position, this can be particularly inhibiting.
Jupiter in Gemini is currently aspecting or influencing Saturn in Libra, so this does lend a little stability to Saturn.
Saturn comes out of retrogression in Libra at 9:50 PM PST, just a few hours before the new Moon in Gemini.
By July 12, 2013, Saturn is moving at 25% of its regular motion and at 50% by July 17.
Saturn returns to its regular forward motion by July 28, 2013.
Saturn’s slow movement will play out in accord with what house of the zodiac Libra represents in your chart, and what you have placed in Libra in your natal chart.
Om Sham Shri Shanischaraya Namaha