Uttaraphalguni is the 12th asterism and consists of two very contrasting stars, known in modern astronomy as Beta-Leonis and 93-Leonis. These two stars lie at the tail end of the constellation of Leo. Denebola (Beta-Leonis) is among the brightest stars in the night sky with a visual magnitude of 2.13. 93-Leonis on the other hand is a relatively faint star with a visual magnitude of 4.53.
Uttaraphalguni translates into «the latter reddish one» or «the latter fig tree». The month of Phalguna relates to the spring season. We can thus immediately associate Uttaraphalguni with all the feelings evoked by the spring season. Obviously Uttaraphalguni wili relate more to the latter half of spring instead of the beginning, which would relate more to the previous nakshatra.
The main symbol of this nakshatra is the two back legs of a bed. Like Purvaphalguni, the bed referred to here is not the bed we use for sleeping on during the night time, but a divan or bed/couch used for a daytime siesta or lounging around. This nakshatra is similar to Purvaphalguni in many ways just as the symbolism suggests. In fact Purvaphalguni and Uttaraphalguni form a pair, the first in the sequence of nakshatras. They share similar names, symbolism, nature and quality although there a slight differences.
As we discussed in the previous nakshatra, the bed or hammock represents a place for rest, comfort and relaxation. The fact that Uttaraphalguni is related to the back legs and not the front legs of a bed, relates it to the second half of a siesta or lounging around. Usually this second half is much more active as one is mentally getting off the relaxation mode and preparing for work.
Uttaraphalguni is thus less comfort-oriented in comparison to its counterpart Purvaphalguni. It relates to someone lying on a couch talking, thinking, or contemplating or involved in some kind of activity like writing, reading, sexual etc.
The fully grown fig tree (refer to the image), represents the notion that Uttaraphalguni has the capacity to actually provide fruit, while Purvaphalguni, which is related to a growing fig tree, has the potential for bearing fruit, but is not actually ripe enough to do so. Uttaraphalguni can thus be seen as a productive rather than a purely recreational, enjoyment orientated and indulgent energy.
Aryaman, one of the 12 Adityas (solar deities), is the main ruling deity of Uttaraphalguni. Aryaman is seen as a deity presiding over patronage, favours and kindness. Therefore the key motivation of this nakshatra is towards helping or receiving help from others. Aryaman is seen as the epitome of hospitality and congeniality, qualities which make Uttaraphalguni a very cultured, social and civilized nakshatra. Uttaraphalguni, like its presiding deity, is very concerned about etiquettes and social graces.
Aryaman is also seen as a deity who places strong emphasis on friendship. In Vedic rituals he is almost always invoked in a pair, either with Bhaga (the ruling deity of Purvaphalguni), or Mitra (the presiding deity of Anuradha). It is no wonder then that Uttaraphalguni along with Anuradha is known for its ability to promote and maintain friendships. Uttaraphalguni however relates more to a personal one-to-one bosom friendship, while Anuradha relates more to friendliness within a group.
Aryaman, being a solar deity, carries alot of the natural significations attached to the Sun as an astrological entity. He acts like a patron but is bound to lose his temper and act harshly when firmly contradicted.
Most of the nature and functionings of Purvaphalguni apply to Uttaraphalguni as well. Other than that, the best way to understand Uttaraphalguni's nature and functioning is to understand the qualities normally associated with the king among the planets, Sun.
The names assigned to Sun in Vedic texts — the illuminator; the chief among the planets; the ever radiant; the shining one; the soul's significator; the cruel and sharp one; the intense one; bestower of prosperity, wealth and ultimate knowledge — give a clue to its basic energy and attributes. All these hold true for Uttaraphalguni as well.
Sun as we know is the light. It is a sattwic planet. Sattwa as we know is a quality of nature whose main objective is to further us along the evolutionary path, through balancing the other two qualities Rajas and Tamas. It is the mode of goodness which has the basic tendency to be helpful to everyone. Sun shines in the same way on the pauper or the king and is never shy of giving. In the same light Uttaraphalguni has a tendency to be free with its sharing, charity, benevolence and philanthropy.
Sun is the only graha which generates its own light. This makes it the most independent among the grahas, all of whom reflect the light generated by the Sun. This independence forms a part of its nature and can be witnessed in Uttaraphalguni. This independence relates to establishing one's own individuality rather than being part of the flock. Alot of us tend to imitate others instead of developing our own creativity, thoughts and opinions. The word 'self-reliant', which in today's world is only taken in its material aspect, actually refers to reliance on one's own soul for gaining knowledge and awareness. Uttaraphalguni natives are always seen trying to rise above the sea of mass consciousness. They are not the types to change their individuality just to stay in sync with whatever is happening.
Sun, as is common knowledge, is the father figure. This is clear from the fact that all life on earth is dependant upon the Sun. Like a typical father figure, Uttaraphalguni has a cruel and harsh side along with its benevolent life giving side. Uttaraphalguni is also a teacher and preacher at heart in much the same way as Sun and like Sun can be pompous and despotic in its negative functioning.
Most of the warlike qualities such as anger, valour, aggression, fearlessness, urge to conquer and competitive spirit are commonly shared by Sun and Uttaraphalguni. However Uttaraphalguni, unlike Sun's other nakshatra Krittika, has a more forgiving attitude and is always more interested in upholding harmony and honour rather than the final victory. The protective and nourishing aspect of the Sun manifests through Uttaraphalguni. It is gentle but firm.
Uttaraphalguni, having its main portion in the sign Virgo, is the meeting point of the energies of Sun and Mercury and thus allows for the expression of their blending. Mercury, the divine messenger, is the closest planet to the Sun. The prince (Mercury) is always the closest and dearest to the king (Sun). In fact Mercury is the only planet which is not afflicted by Sun's tremendous intensity, just like the prince is never awed by the presence of the king. Together they share the attributes of discrimination, intelligence, general awareness and the judgemental faculty. In a way both of them are intellectual planets, but Mercury carries a much more humorous and lighter energy as compared to the Sun. Intellect (Mercury) has the job of controlling the mind (Moon) but it takes its cue from the soul (Sun). Mercury can become a frivolous energy unless it establishes proper relations with the Sun. This situation is similar to a messenger without any message or source of news. Sun is the source from which Mercury has to derive its inspiration. Sun however lacks the communication ability of Mercury and cannot express itself properly without its help. This is the reason why the ancient seers extolled the Sun-Mercury combination. This blending of Sun-Mercury energies is very present in those natives bom under Uttaraphalguni.
Uttaraphalguni, like Sun, is straightforward and unhesitating in its dealings. Like Sun, Uttaraphalguni is ready to serve but only from a position of superiority. There is a certain degree of ascetism inherent in Uttaraphalguni's nature. It is hard for many of us to imagine how a king can be an ascetic. An ancient Vedic story about a king called Janaka, in which he proved to a venerable sage that it is perfectiy possible, is a case in point!
«He asked the sage to carry a burning lamp all around his palace in such a way that trie fire is not extinguished. When the sage came back from his round the king asked him about the sights he had seen around his grand palace. The sage couldn't respond as all his concentration had been focused on the lamp. Janaka then told him that this is the way he rules his kingdom.»
Krishna put forward the same doctrine of action without attachment in his discourse to Arjuna in the legendary Vedic epic «The Mahabharata». Both Krishna and Arjuna were kings in their own right and didn't exactly fit the role of an ascetic.
Uttaraphalguni, like Sun, assists in easy expression of the soul personality. This expression manifests in the outer world as self-confidence, self-assurance and creativity. In a negative sense it can manifest as selfishness, pride, self-aggrandizement or megalomania.
Nobility and dignity are also primarily solar traits which other planets cannot really imitate. There's no equal to Sun as far as sticking to one's word or pledge is concerned. Just like it rarely swerves from its celestial path, it always holds onto its word or promise. There are numerous stories of Sun personalities which illustrate this aspect of Sun's nature, which is also expressed through Uttaraphalguni. Another quality which sets it apart from others is its confidence and selfassuredness.
Sun also has a devious side to it, which most astrologers ignore. It is a master at fraud and lying. Uttaraphalguni has a lot to do with this part of Sun's nature because of its strong connection with the trickster Mercury. In the olden days the kings were supposed to master 64 arts; and lying, gambling and fraud were among these 64 arts. However it must be noted that Uttaraphalguni tries to use such tactics for a noble cause. Being the natural significator of the 9th and 10th houses, Sun is intimately connected with one's dharma. Uttaraphalguni is very concerned about fulfilling its duty and assigned goal. It is always very conscious of establishing its path and following it till the end.
In a nativity, Uttaraphalguni rising makes one generous and kind and a good friend towards others. It gives one a noble reputation and makes one skilful at their work. Popularity is due to the native's reliable and helpful nature. Their physical characteristics mirror that of the Sun, especially when the birth is in the Leo part of Uttaraphalguni. The Sun can be described as having honey coloured eyes. It has a square body, sturdy bones and sparse curly hair. It has a majestic appearance and is not very tall. It has a courageous and steady look, its complexion is coppery reddish or golden. It has a proud demeanour.
The Virgo part of Uttaraphalguni adds mercurial traits like flexibility, humour, slenderness, agility and amiability to the Sun-like appearance of the native. The native appears more princely as opposed to kingly.
In the universal scheme of things, Uttaraphalguni relates to «chayani shako» — the power of accumulation and prosperity. Its symbolism has wealth from one's own family below and wealth from one's spouse's family above. This relates Uttaraphalguni to all types of gains made through family, partnerships and unions. It is Uttaraphalguni's duty to utilize these resources properly, and be generous and fair in their distribution.
Uttaraphalguni is considered to be a Balanced nakshatra^. Its balancing quality is pretty evident from the nature of its ruling deity Aryaman. One needs to have a balanced personality to have social graces, kindness, compassion and friendliness towards other living creatures. In a way Uttaraphalguni mirrors the sign Libra when it comes to all that is encompassed by the term «balance». The only difference is that Uttaraphalguni is more likely to hold onto its pivot or fixed centre, while the sign Libra is known to drown its essential nature in order to achieve balance and harmony.
This nakshatra falls in the Kshatriya (ruling/warrior) class of nakshatras and makes one concerned about society and how to direct one's energy towards noble causes. It also suggests concern for some kind of accomplishment on the material plane so one can occupy a position of power or strength. Once again its Kshatriya qualities are derived from its association with the Kshatriya planet Sun.
It is a Female nakshatra. This is a perplexing classification considering that both its ruling planet and ruling deity are male. When one considers that the bulk of this nakshatra falls in the feminine sign of Virgo, one can make some sense of the line of thinking behind this classification. Uttaraphalguni, as we have discussed earlier, is connected to predominantly feminine archetypes like grace, kindness, benevolence, consideration and receptivity.
Lips, Sex Organs and the Left Hand are the body parts related to this nakshatra.
It is a primarily «Vata» (airy) nakshatra. The only reason, which seems to be behind this classification, is that the major part of this nakshatra lies in the predominantly vata sign of Virgo. Mercury, the ruler of Virgo, is also seen as a predominantly vata planet. We can however assume that the part of Uttaraphalguni lying within Leo would show Pitts rather than vata characteristics.
The two directions it relates to most strongly are east and south.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Sagittarius Navamsa ruled by Jupiter. This pada relates to the Jupiterian side of the solar nature. It is like a Sun/Jupiter conjunction and gives a strongly ethical nature along with an advisory capacity. Planets placed here give fortunate, expansive results as long as they are in good Shashtiamsha.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Capricorn Navamsa ruled by Saturn. This pada is akin to a Sun/Mercury/Saturn conjunction and gives a tremendous organizational ability. Planets placed here usually give very good material results and a practical, hardworking nature.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aquarius Navamsa ruled by Satum. This pada relates to the philanthropic side of Uttaraphalguni. The keyword here is service. The intellectual abilities are sharp here and are usually used for the social good. Planers placed in this pada tend to work in a Robin Hood fashion.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Pisces Navamsa ruled by Jupiter. This pada is akin to a Sun/Mercury/Jupiter conjunction. Out here the intellectual abilities are always utilized for seeing the bigger picture and relating to others. A balance between the small and the big, matter and spirit, Virgo and Pisces is sought here. Since this is a Pushkara navamsa pada, planers placed here give strong, favourable results on a material as well as spiritual plane.
Creative Artists, Musicians, Entertainers; Superstars and Male Sex Symbols; Managers; Leaders of all types and Public Figures like Sport Superstars; Those in high positions and held in esteem by others; Media and Entertainment industry; Priests; Heads of organizations; Mafia Dons; Teachers and Preachers; Philanthropists; Astrologers; Marriage Counsellors; Sex Therapists; Professions connected to United Nations; International Diplomats; Founding fathers and other Patriotic Figures; Bankers and Creditors; Social Workers; Professional Advisors in all fields.
Uttaraphalguni is highly flexible in regards to professions and can be seen in a variety of professions as long as it Is in a commanding position.
Forests; Gardens; Estates; Public Buildings; Government Buildings; Stadiums; Entertainment Halls; Residences of Rich and Famous People; Palaces, Towers, Large Halls; Playgrounds; Cathedrals and other magnificent buildings; Public Assemblies; United Nation's Buildings; Libraries.
This nakshatra belongs to the Rajasic group of nakshatras. Not much needs to be said here, as Uttaraphalguni in its descriptions naturally comes out as an active, energetic nakshatra.
It belongs to the Fire element. This as we can see has a lot to do with its planetary ruler Sun and its solar deity Aryaman.
It is considered a Manushya (human) nakshatra. Uttaraphalguni, as we have discussed earlier, is very involved in worldly affairs on the terrestrial plane. All human values like family, society, friendship etc. find expression through this nakshatra. Uttaraphalguni in a way is a harbinger of culture and civilization.
It is a Downward nakshatra. Uttaraphalguni, because of its natural fixed characters best for laying foundations. Its involvement with foundations and support of all types makes it a downward nakshatra. In a building, Uttaraphalguni will always relate more to the foundation stone or the foundation itself.
As mentioned previously, it is a Dhruva (fixed or permanent) nakshatra. Despite its receptivity, amicability and friendliness, Uttaraphalguni is quite fixed in its thinkings, opinions and functionings. This is probably the reason why it can always be relied upon. It tends not to sway away from vows and pleasures, especially those relating to friendship. This fixed quality obviously stems from its solar aspect.
It relates to the second half of the lunar month of Phaiguna, which usually corresponds to the month of March in the solar calendar.
Uttaraphalguni is also related to the Dvadashi (12th tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Favourable for sexual activity and marriage; Generally auspicious for beginning all things of a lasting nature like organizations, societies, etc.; Good for marriage and sexual activity; Good for dealing with higher authorities; Good for administrative actions of all types; Buying property or entering a new home for the first time; Openings/inauguration ceremonies and swearing-ins; Making promises; Performing sacred ceremonies and rituals; Wearing new clothes and jewellery; Acts of charity; Career related activities; Paternal activities; Good for activities requiring tact and diplomacy.
Unfavourable for endings of all types; Not good for harsh activities like confrontation, retaliation or engaging with enemies; Not good for lending money if you are expecting it back.
Sun is the planetary ruler of this nakshatra. The solar aspect of nature comes into manifestation in the earlier nakshatra, Krittika. Uttaraphalguni relates to the process where the solar principle affects and organizes the material world, just like Sun's rays can cook food in a solar cooker. The primordial solar principle manifests as willpower in Krittika, but it takes the form of intelligence in Uttaraphalguni, with the aid of Mercury.
Mercury is associated with Uttaraphalguni, due to the fact that a major part of Uttaraphalguni lies in Virgo, a sign ruled by Mercury. Uttaraphalguni is all about the linking between soul and intellect. Under this nakshatra's influence, the solar energy is directed towards actual practical work in order to achieve certain goals which the soul has set for itself, and also help out others along the way as well. Just as all living life on our planet is dependant upon Sun's rays, all society and civilization is dependant upon the guidance of this nakshatra.
Sun/Mercury conjunction in a horoscope carries energies similar to Uttaraphalguni. Friends of Sun like Moon, Mercury, Mars and Jupiter do well here; while Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu feel obstructed here, especially Venus, due to its in debilitation in the Virgo part of this nakshatra.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Tay» as in Taylor.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «To» as in Tohnamah.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Pa» as in Pascal.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Pee» as in Peter.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Uttaraphalguni corresponds.to «Chha» and «Ja», consequently its mantras are «Om Chham» and «Om Jam (Jahm)».
The sexual animal associated with this nakshatra is a Cow, which suggests its nurturing and passive qualities. Although this nakshatra has noble qualities attached to it, it is said to give reputation or scandal through sexual adventures. This nakshatra has an adventurous element, which seems to express itself mostly in the sexual realm.
The interesting thing about Uttaraphalguni is that it relates most closely to the visible physical Sun of our solar system, which we see rising every morning. The physical body of our Sun may have started forming around 5 billion years ago, but the actual causal solar entity we know as Vivasvan, might not have entered until a later time, just like the astral body only enters the physical body after the embryo has been developed up to a certain stage. This will also explain the fact that not every star in the sky has a solar system which breeds life! Only those stars which have an astral/causal entity housing them have the potential to breed life.
The names of the Sun's eleven brothers who are all born out of the union of sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi (translates into 'infinite space' and governs the nakshatra Punarvasu) are — Aryaman, Dhatra, Tvastar, Pushan, Savitar, Mitra, Varuna, Amasa, Bhasa, Vishnu and Shakra. We can see that almost all of these solar deities are related with nakshatras — Aryaman with Uttara Phaiguni, Mitra with Anuradha (the 17th asterism), Pushan with Revati (the 27th asterism), Savitar with Hasta (the 13th asterism), Tvastar with Chitra (the 14th asterism) and Varuna with Shatabhisha (the 24th asterism).
The fact that this nakshatra has its first quarter in the sign Leo relates to the regal authoritarian side of this asterism. It is a doubling of solar energy. Since its last three quarters lie in the sign under Mercury, an intellectual bent is observed in the workings of this asterism. On a spiritual level, the main aim of this nakshatra is the harmonization of the intellect (Mercury) and soul (Sun), which aids evolutionary growth, along with bringing benefits on the material plane. This asterism relates to the culmination of the individualization process as it covers the final degrees of the sign Leo. After the individualization process is over the individual is expected to be of service to a greater whole. The service aspect of this asterism comes out through the sign normally associated with service, Virgo.
The characteristics usually associated with the number «12» in numerology are mostly borne out of the nature and functionings of this nakshatra. Uttaraphalguni forms the bridge between the numbers 5 and 6 and also between the numbers 11 and 12.
This asterism can be seen as the Egyptian Sphinx, which in a sense symbolizes harmonization of the energies of the signs Leo and Virgo. It relates to a period of time in history (around 10,500 B.C.), where the spring equinox was passing from the sign Virgo to the sign Leo. Many believe it to be a time of great upheaval and re-alignment, as the last great flood was supposed to have taken place around that time. This illustrates the importance of this nakshatra for human life on earth.
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Pulasthya, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «having smooth hair». The term 'smooth hair' may relate to the hair of the sophistocated, savvy nature of the Sage in question, which will then vibe well with the essential qualities of this nakshatra.
For those suffering from bad effects resulting from afflictions to this nakshatra, the best remedial measure is worship of the Sun. Recitation of the Gayatri mantra is very helpful for natives under strong Uttaraphalguni influence. Worship of Durga and other warrior like feminine deities also suit this nakshatra.
Repetition of the root mantras of this nakshatra — «Om Chham» and «Om Jam» 108 times when Moon transits this nakshatra and in its corresponding lunar month, is sure to reduce suffering and bring enlightenment into a person's life.
Persons who are benefiting from trie positive energy of this nakshatra can also increase the good effects through the above mentioned ways. It is helpful for them to wear all red, white, green and golden shades. The shade should be neither too bright, nor too dull, but fall somewhere in between. They should use its directions, lunar month and the days when Moon transits Uttaraphalguni to undertake all important actions.
Source: «The Book of Nakshatras» by Prash Trivedi
Source: «The Book of Nakshatras» by Prash Trivedi