Horoscope Judgement

• Then go into greater detail. But always remember that these major factors will not be altered by minor factors but only adjusted by them. In this way, the mass of planetary data will not confuse you.

Ascendant and Moon Sign

In judging the chart, first determine the relative strengths of the Ascendant and the Moon sign. If, for example, the chart is Gemini rising and Taurus Moon with no planets aspecting the Ascendant and with Jupiter, Venus and Ketu in Scorpio aspecting the Moon, then the Moon sign will be stronger than the Ascendant, and houses can be counted mainly from the Moon. Such a person would probably be watery type, owing to the strength of the Moon sign and the aspect of watery planets upon it.

So the first major choice to make is the relative weights to give the Ascendant and Moon signs. Usually the ascendant has more weight but many exceptions exist.

• Generally, the Ascendant counts for two-thirds and the Moon sign for one-third on any issue.

If the same condition exists from the Moon as from the ascendant, then its results are more likely to manifest. If the seventh from the Moon, as well as the seventh from the ascendant is afflicted by separative planets, then divorce is more likely.

Sun Sign

Some astrologers consider houses from the Sun, as well as those from the Ascendant and Moon. In this system, the ascendant counts for one half, the Moon sign for one third, the Sun sign for one sixth. This system was called "Sudarshan" or perfect vision, as it provides a more complete view. Yet for most purposes, consideration of the houses from the Moon and Ascendant is enough. Still we have to consider the Sun sign as very important, particularly for issues of the self and soul for which the Sun is the significator.

Aspects

• The effect of planetary aspects is usually stronger than that of planetary conjunctions.

If the Sun is with Mars but aspected by Jupiter then Jupiter will generally have a stronger effect upon the Sun or Mars than either conjunct planet. Conjunctions are not aspects in Vedic Astrology but associations. Aspects are stronger determining factors than conjunctions. An aspect can nullify the effect of a conjunction. For example, Jupiter Venus conjunct aspected by Saturn may be largely neutralized, particularly if Saturn is more prominently placed, such as in the tenth house.

Of course, if three or more planets are conjunct, this creates a powerful concentration of energy, particularly if the Sun and the Moon are involved, that can be more significant than any aspect. It becomes another Ascendant, often more important than the rising sign.

All planets in angles to the Ascendant influence it, almost like an aspect. In this regard, planets in the fourth house will be stronger than planets in the first house, those in the seventh will be stronger than in the fourth, and those in the tenth the strongest. Planets will be stronger to the extent they are in their own signs or those of their own element or combined with like planets. For example, the Sun with Mars will be stronger than with Mercury. The Sun in Sagittarius (a fiery sign) in the tenth house will be stronger than in Pisces (a watery sign).

• The closer planets are in degree to exact aspects and conjunctions, the stronger their action.

Saturn on the degree of the Ascendant, for example, will be more debilitating than ten degrees away in the same sign. So the exact degree of positions should always be considered.

House and Sign Positions

Generally speaking, house position is more important than sign position. For example, it is better if Jupiter is debilitated in a good house, like the ninth, than exalted in a bad house like the eighth. But each factor has its weight as well. Good sign position will give some good results. Bad house position will give some bad results, and vice versa.