Swati is once again among the few asterisms which are represented by a single star. Its representative is a yellowish star commonly known as Arcturus {Alpha-Bootis). It is the central star of the constellation of Bootis which can be said to lie on top of the gateway formed between Virgo and Libra. However, as we can see, this asterism occupies the heart of the sign Libra and has nothing to do with the sign Virgo. With a visual magnitude of 0.16, Arcturus is the third brightest among the stars in the night sky and can be spotted even in the polluted skies over big metropolitan cities. Ancient Vedic seers associated a lot of importance to this bright star and saw it as the abode of Saraswati, the goddess of learning.
«Swati», like other Sanskrit terms, evokes a wide variety of English meanings — «self-going», «good goer», «independent», «sword», «self-blowing», «delicate» and «tender». Each of these meanings relay a different side of this asterisms nature and functionings.
Its symbol is a «young plant shoot blown by the wind'. The wind symbolism suggests the airy quality of this asterism which promotes restlessness, adaptability, dexterity and a roaming disposition. The young plant symbolism suggests delicacy. This is the reason why this asterism strives for strength and independence, just like a young plant shoot strives for maturity. Air is the balancing element among the five interacting elements in nature. This nakshatra is the balancing pivot of the zodiac in the sense that it is the middle most nakshatra, with thirteen nakshatras on either side. It represents the atmospheric aspect, where there's neither a lull nor a storm and a gentle breeze is blowing. Swati thus represents the period of our lives where smooth sailing takes place.
In ancient Vedic texts, wind also suggests an idea of force and ability to move things, like clouds. This implies that even though gentle, Swati is capable of applying force whenever required. The young delicate sapling is always growing to become a strong sturdy tree, which has very little to fear from nature's pressures like weather and animals.
A lcoral' is the alernative symbol of this nakshatra. The coral is a plant which makes its progeny out of its own body like bacterias and other micro-organisms. In the same way, Swati's creativity comes out of parting with a piece of itself. It is common knowledge that coral relates to the planet Mars. Swati has no direct correlation with the planet Mars, but through coral a connection is established. Just like wind gets the impetus to move through the imbalance between heat and cold, Swati gets its extraordinary mobility, energy and strength from the heating effect of the planet Mars.
Swati falls in the cardinal, achievement-oriented sign of Libra. This is why 'a sword' is also seen as a symbol of this nakshatra, to represent its cutting, fiery quality. In a way, it can be said, that in time this asterism transforms from the delicate young plant shoot into a hard and strong, razor sharp sword. Thus those with prominent Swati in their charts are late bloomers and have a stronger second half of life as compared to the first half.
Its main presiding deity is Vayu, the god of wind. He is one of the five main gods residing in Swarga (heavenly astral plane), who are responsible for taking care of the five main elements of nature — earth, wind, fire, water and ether. All of Vayu's qualities, especially those relevant to the earthly plane, can be seen manifested through Напитан, son of Vayu and one of the central characters in the Vedic epic, «Ramayana». Hanuman's qualities like extreme strength, morality, strong sense of ethics, moderation, fairness, resourcefulness, intelligence, wisdom, sense of propriety, loyalty and ability to serve without letting ego come in the way; apply to the highest aspect of Swati's functioning.
The «Ramayana» tells us that Hanuman was never consciously aware of his own prowess unless reminded of it by others. Swati, in the same way, is quite humble in its disposition and needs to be told about its potential for it to be able to express itself. This quality can be associated with its planetary ruler Rahu. Rahu as a planet represents the potential that is hidden from us, which we need to discover in the present life.
It is Hanuman's extreme loyalty and devotion to Rama (main character from the «Ramayana»), which still remains the strongest example of unconditional and unselfish service in the hearts and minds of people influenced by the Vedic way of thinking. It is no wonder then that the planet of service, Saturn, reaches maximum exaltation in Swati. Bheema, one of the central characters in the Mahabharata is also a son of Vayu (one must remember that in those days gods were still copulating with humans). He is a character similar to that of Hanuman, except that his qualities were not as sterling as that of Hanuman. This is however to be expected as the ages had changed from Treta (Silver) to Dwapar (Bronze).
Swati's relation to Saraswati, the goddess of music and learning, reveals the higher nature of this asterism, which is conducive for all sorts of learning — material, philosophical or spiritual. Just like its planetary ruler Rahu, when functioning through its higher aspect, this nakshatra is eager and open to teaming — a rare quality.
«Balance» is the keyword for natives born under the strong influence of this nakshatra. Balance is a double edged sword and many Swan' types are seen to avoid taking any stance on any matter due to their extreme need to maintain harmony. Only very evolved Swati types are capable of decisive action. Extreme procrastination is one of the worst traits of this nakshatra. Inconclusive thinking is a feature which is apparent here more than any other nakshatra. Swati's openness to new thoughts and ideas make it ideal for all types of learning, but only a few acquire mastery over their chosen field.
In its lower aspect, Swati is the most airy fairy amongst the nakshatras. Swati natives always have to be conscious of growing towards a more stable centre and still this process usually takes a long time. Swati is usually in no hurry to achieve its objectives and this is the reason why Saturn finds maximum exaltation here. The emphasis here is on longterm planning. Most Swati natives are usually very good at sowing the seeds for the future, but only a few of them stick around to nurture the seed into a full grown tree.
Swati natives usually have slim and elegantly proportioned bodies. They can be easily spotted in group situations with a continuously fixed smile on their faces. Because of the emphasis of Venus and Rahu, Swati natives are born diplomats. They are the socialites of the zodiac. They usually go to any lengths to fit into prevalent social and cultural structures. They are strong advocates of social etiquettes, courtesies and civilized behaviour. They use their social charm to climb the ladder of success. Their catchphrase is «Who am I to blow against the wind?». It is this quality which makes them lose their inner centre and blindly follow mass trends. Often very intelligent Swati types behave in the same way, even after attaining a clear understanding of the worthlessness of trying to please everyone all the time.
'Swati' translates into 'independent' or 'self-going'. These meanings are self explanatory as this asterism promotes individuality. However this individuality is different from the individuality furthered by Sun's influence, as Sun has its maximum debilitation in this asterism. It is not a soul level individuality, but a more mental and material individuality based upon some skill or talent developed on these planes.
Many of the world's richest men are born with either Moon or other significant planets placed in this asterism. Working through its lower plane, this asterism can be overtly indulgent and function without any regard for morals. Law, sex and money — the three major Libran significations, form an integral part of the activities of this asterism.
It is supposed to be a Passive nakshatra. This obviously relates to its naturally shy and gentle quality. Swati is more of a «wait and watch» rather than a «run and get it» type of nakshatra. As we have already discussed, it is a patient energy, which is ready to wait for things to fall into place together, rather than aggressively put them in place itself.
It belongs to the Butcher caste. It is hard to visualize what the ancient seers were trying to convey through this classification. In our opinion it must relate to the destructive and ruthless side of Swati. Even wind can be a highly destructive and unforgiving force when it takes the form of tempest, cyclones and tornadoes. Swati, as we have discussed earlier, is quite ruthless in its approach, especially when it gains strength and power over the passage of time.
It is a Female nakshatra. Swati represents the female aspect of its planetary ruler, Rahu. It is directly associated with Saraswarj, goddess of music and learning.
The body part it relates to is the Chest, which emphasizes its connection with the air element and the process of breathing. On an astral level this is related to the flow of prana (life force) through the body.
Its constitutional type is «Kapha» (watery). This classification stems from the fact that all of this nakshatra lies in the predominantly kapha sign of Libra.
It is connected with the west, southwest and the southeast.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Sagittarius Navamsa and is ruled by Jupiter. This pada epitomises the restless and inquisitive aspect of Swati. It gives talent in writing, communications and promotes all kinds of travel. All planets give reasonably favourable results in this pada because of its eager and openminded nature.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Capricorn Navamsa and is ruled by Saturn. This pada embodies the material aspect of Swati's functioning. It is the most rooted among the four padas and thus to an extent lacks Swati's inherent fragility. The concerns here are stability and material growth. It can be deemed as selfish when it comes to personal comforts and other forms of materiality. Planets here give a sound business sense.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aquarius Navamsa ruled by Saturn. This is the most intellectual amongst the four padas of Swati. The emphasis here is on learning, creativity and cooperation. Planets here encourage any kind of group work in order to achieve one's chosen goals. Mercury, Venus and Saturn are especially strong in this pada.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Pisces Navamsa ruled by Jupiter. This is the most flexible and adaptable amongst Swab's padas. We have already seen that Swab's key to success lies in blowing with the wind and this pada is best suited for that Being the Pushkara navamsa pada, it promises success through hardwork, ingenuity, flexibility and sociability. Planets here might seem flimsy in their approach but are service orientated and hardworking. All planets except .Mercury give good results here.
Businessmen and Tradespeople of all types; Wrestlers; All sports, especially those relying on breath control; Singers; Musicians playing Wind Instruments like Horns and Organ; Researchers; Inventors; Technology experts; Independent Enterprises; Government related Service Professions; Aeronautical Industry; Pilots; Professions connected with the Aviation industry; Transportation Industry; Socialites; Professions involving use of speech like Newsreaders etc.; Computer and Software Industry; Professions requiring flexibility and quick ingenuity; Serving Professions like Housekeepers and Right-hand-man types; Kite Makers; Adventure Sports people like Skydivers, Balloonists etc.; Educators, Teachers; Lawyers; Judges; Politicians; Trade-Union and Working Class Leaders; Diplomats, Hosts, Hostesses.
High Cliffs; Places where winds blow strongly; Agricultural land; Coral reefs; Marketplaces; Business Centers; Banks; Financial Institutions; Sport Complexes; Airports (both civil and military); Educational institutions; Aeronautical facilities and testing grounds; Computer and Software related centres; Research facilities of all types; Diplomatic enclaves like Embassies, Consulates etc; Parliament Houses; Courthouses; Commuter places like Train Stations, Bus-Stations etc.
Rahu's Venusian side is usually quite materialistic which makes this asterism Rajasic (materially active). It is the best nakshatra for business and other financially profitable activities, as it always keeps its own interests above everything else.
It belongs to the Fire Element. The fact that it is fiery reveals a hitherto unknown aspect of Rahu, which is predominantly an airy and earthy planet. This fieriness relates to the inherent motivation of this asterism, which can range from learning, to acquiring financial gain, to getting worldly prominence.
It is considered a Deva or godly nakshatra. Its godly nature stems from the fact that this asterism is very conducive to all types of learning. Rahu, its ruler, is the significator of knowledge and this aspect of its nature finds expression through this nakshatra.
It is a Level nakshatra. Falling in the heart of Libra, it has a balancing quality, it thus relays the diplomatic, pleasing side of Rahu. It can always compromise to achieve its eventual ends. It can be seen as a combined Venus and Rahu energy and relays the Venusian side of Rahu's functioning. This makes it good in most Venusian related pursuits like music.
It is a Moveable nakshatra. Its moveable nature is borne out of its close association with the air element through planets Rahu and Saturn, As discussed earlier, its ruling deity Vayu corresponds to wind, which is one of the constantly moving elements in nature.
It relates to the last 9 days of the lunar month of «Chaitra», which usually falls in late April, early May.
Swati is also related to the Saptami (5th tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Good for business and trade activities; Recommended for starting any educational venture; Good for learning in general; Social activities and events; Dealing with the public; Financial transactions; All activities which require a calm and flexible approach; Grooming and self adornment; Buying and Selling in general; Actions where diplomacy is required; Pursuing Arts and Sciences.
Not good for travel; Fierce or warlike activities; Any type of aggressive behaviour is not likely to pay off in this nakshatra.
Rahu is the primary ruler of this asterism and its airy qualities are relayed through It. There is a strong urge for comfort and luxury when Rahu is manifesting its energies on an earthy plane. Earth is the secondary element of Rahu. Since Swati falls completely in the sign of Libra, Venus has a strong connection with this asterism. The Rahu-Venus influence together is a highly indulgent combination, which gives a strong urge for comfort and luxury. A love of show and pomp is seen when Rahu is functioning through its lower aspect. As disussed earlier, Swati natives often appreciate the finer things in life and uphold a certain degree of sophistocation in their dress, mannerisms and tastes.
The primarily materialistic energy of Rahu and Venus combined gives Swati natives success in Venusian business pursuits. In its negative aspect, natives under the heavy influence of this nakshatra can become a slave to their desires and are guided by greed and deceit to gain their ends.
Rahu has a diplomatic nature, which is very similar to that of Venus. Rahu, like Venus, is by nature a social planet and enjoys company. Swati in this regard, can be the most pretentious among the nakshatras. Rahu is supposed to give an artistic temperament in much the same way as Venus, but as always with Rahu, there is a touch of unorthodoxy involved. Rahu's Venusian side is highlighted in any horoscope when it is either associated with Venus in a nativity, or is placed in the second/ seventh houses, or is posited in the signs Taurus/Libra.
In its higher aspect, Swati natives express higher Venusian qualities like diplomacy, compassion and a thirst for knowledge. Rahu is also very much capable of manifesting highest Venusian energies like universal love, compassion and harmony when working through its higher principle.
Rahu, Mercury, Venus and Saturn gives strong results in Swati. Sun and Mars are a little out of sorts here, while Ketu's energy is incompatible with the energies of this nakshatra. Jupiter and Moon are neutral and give results according to other factors in a nativity.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Ru» as in Ruth.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Re» as in Rex.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Ro» as in Robin.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Та» as in Tanya.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Swati corresponds to «Da» (pronounced as «The») and consequently its mantra is «Om Dam».
Its sexual animal is a Buffalo. This makes it fertile and it likes to play a dominant role in sexual activity. This nakshatra is often prone to exploit mild forms of sex and sexuality for business purposes. Swati can be said to be more of a tease rather than a whore.
Swati represents the equilibrium point of everything. It represents the mid-point of our lives, the life of the universe and everything that exists. It is the midpoint between expansion and contraction. It is the point where the universe stops expanding and begins contracting. It lies directly opposite Ashwini, a nakshatra which can be seen as the big bang, which created the material universe.
In our bodies, Swati relates to the five vital pranas or airs. These airs form an interface between the astral and the corporeal body. It is these airs which are normally referred to as the life force within us. The preliminary spiritual practices like ргапвуата are meant to create an equilibrium between these five vital airs, so that the mind can remain free from ripples when the real meditative process begins. Swati relates to the immense potential of these body airs, which when utilized properly, as done by sages in Ages gone by, allowed them to meditate unhindered for thousands of years and have lifespans which exceeded lifespans of the Ages.
In the universal scheme of things, Swati relates to «Pradhvamsa shakti» — the power to disperse like the wind. Its symbolism has roaming around above and change of form below. The relationship of Swati with the air element is stressed here. The maya element of Swati lies in its ability to adjust itself to any situation or circumstance without losing its own essence. Its free, detached, observant quality makes it easy for it to scatter away any negative buildup on any level of being. Swati can be seen as the universal vacuum cleaner.
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Marichi, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «Light». The «lightness» (as in swiftness) aspect of this Sage seems to connect well with Swati, considering that Air is a light element.