Lunar Nodes in the Natal Chart (Ascending (North) Node, Rahu) and (Descending (South) Node, Ketu)

Astronomically, the Lunar Nodes are the points where the Moon’s orbit intersects the ecliptic—the apparent path of the Sun relative to the stars. These are truly unique nodes that unite the two principal cosmic principles: the solar and the lunar.

The Sun is often associated with the monad, the divine spark, a kind of spiritual center of the human being that journeys from life to life, reincarnating and accumulating certain experiences in each incarnation. The Moon, in turn, can be compared to the material, mortal shell, constructed from earthly substance and serving as a temporary dwelling for the monad—the Sun—during a given lifetime.

In Indian mythology, there is a story about a demon (rakshasa) who was cut in two. The upper part was named Rahu, representing the dragon’s head, while the lower part became Ketu, the dragon’s tail. The upper part corresponds to the direction of the Earth’s North Pole, which is why it is also called the North (Ascending) Node. The node located on the opposite side is known as the South (Descending) Node.

In astrology, these points are indicators of karmic accumulation and spiritual potential. They describe a person’s mission and the destination toward which the native strives in this incarnation.

Human life represents a movement from the past to the future. The vector of this movement is directed from the South Node to the North Node, from Descending to Ascending. One can say that the Lunar Nodes symbolize the lunar-solar process, or the path along which the native masters the circumstances of the Moon and approaches the goal of the Sun. The line (axis) of the Lunar Nodes in the horoscope can be compared to the river of life along which each of us travels.

However, the current of this river is actually directed from the Ascending Node to the Descending Node, and to reach the goal, one must swim against the current, overcoming obstacles. Otherwise, those who go with the flow are always carried back toward the South Node, where everything is familiar and well-worn.

The South, Descending Lunar Node and Its Meaning

A person does not begin their earthly journey from zero or with a blank slate. Before the present incarnation, the native has already traveled a certain part of the path and acquired experience, which is expressed by the Descending (South) Lunar Node.

This experience may be either bitter or positive. In any case, the person feels certain areas of life to be more or less mastered, and it is easy for the native to engage in what is familiar and comes naturally. However, dwelling on the topics of the Descending Node and living within its boundaries leads to stagnation and regression. It is necessary to transform the experience of past achievements into a solid foundation for future victories and progress in life. The past should not be rejected completely, but one must move forward without constantly looking back.

The North, Ascending Lunar Node and Its Meaning

The Ascending (North) Lunar Node shows the most essential and correct direction for steering the boat of life. The future may be frightening in its uncertainty, and a sense of lack of knowledge is ever-present. The journey toward the goal is often accompanied by mistakes and missteps, and sometimes the summit seems unattainable.

Nevertheless, it is important to move exactly in the direction of the Ascending Node. This represents the pursuit of one’s life mission in the current incarnation.

Analysis and Interpretation of the Lunar Nodes

The Lunar Nodes should not be considered separately from other elements of the horoscope. They can reinforce or highlight the overall meaning and message encoded in the birth chart. A comprehensive study of the Lunar Nodes and fundamental astrological factors will help one better understand the patterns of life and the fate of the native, since in this way it is possible to draw parallels between the present existence, the native’s past, and the future.

Analyzing the position of the Lunar Nodes is essential when studying or resolving karmic issues and tasks. The zodiac sign in which the Descending Node falls will indicate the familiar behavioral style and way of life acquired in past incarnations. The Ascending Lunar Node, the astrological House it occupies, and its sign will point to the direction in which the person needs to develop in the current life. Understanding the vector of one’s development will give the native the opportunity to release past problems and fully realize the creative and spiritual potential endowed by nature and destiny.

Lunar Nodes in the Zodiac Signs

Ascending (North) Node in Aries, Descending (South) Node in Libra

A person with the Ascending Node in Aries has the task of being a leader and a pioneer. The Descending Node in Libra inclines the native toward compromise and diplomatic behavior, but this is not the correct path. In order to fulfill their destiny, the person should not look to others for support or rely on anyone else.

Such a path is bright and unique, but it is the path of a loner. The native needs to develop qualities of a fighter, decisiveness, and independence. Only the brightest, most charismatic, energetic, and self-confident person can lead the crowd.

Ascending Node in Taurus, Descending Node in Scorpio

The karmic task for a person with the Ascending Node in Taurus is to develop and refine their talents and abilities. It is beneficial if the native chooses a profession related to art—painting, architecture, literature (poetry), singing, and so on. Creative work will allow the native to grow and evolve. Creativity may also have a practical character; the person may be interested in gardening, animal husbandry, love the land, and build homes.

Conversely, if the person follows the path of the Descending Node, doing what is familiar, life becomes meaningless, and most karmic knots will remain unresolved. Those with the Descending Node in Scorpio should avoid intrigue, manipulations, and seeking only personal gain in partnerships. It is recommended to cultivate solidity, diligence, honesty, practicality, the ability to enjoy beauty, and to create harmonious things with one’s own hands.

Ascending Node in Gemini, Descending Node in Sagittarius

The mission for a person with the Ascending Node in Gemini lies in any intellectual activity: writing, scientific research, translation, journalism, and so forth. The native should also develop communication, mediation, and commercial skills, even if it proves challenging.

For those with the Descending Node in Sagittarius, activities related to teaching, philosophy, religion, and travel are not recommended. In this life, the focus should be on learning oneself, rather than instructing others or dispensing advice. The native may find that their knowledge is too abstract and not always applicable to practical problems. In this situation, it is important to communicate more, seek out new sources of information, respond quickly to changes in the world, and apply newly acquired skills.

Ascending Node in Cancer, Descending Node in Capricorn

The Ascending Node in Cancer indicates that in this incarnation, the native should focus on building a family, a cozy home, and a strong foundation. Their mission may include upholding family values, serving their homeland, and expressing love for their country.

A person with the Descending Node in Capricorn should not devote their life solely to work and high ambitions. It is important not to distance oneself from others or maintain relationships that are only dry and businesslike. By showing gentleness, kindness, and care for others, the native can fully realize their karmic tasks. Intuition and the ability to perceive the world with childlike emotion will be helpful in both life and work. A person who acts spontaneously, without rigid plans, and trusts the world is following their karmic path.

Ascending Node in Leo, Descending Node in Aquarius

A person with these nodes should pay close attention to society and the phenomena occurring within it. It is important to see the creative spark in others, but not to dissolve into the crowd or forget one’s own uniqueness.

The person with the Ascending Node in Leo must discover their individuality and develop the talents and abilities bestowed by the Creator. Once the native feels fulfilled and needed in society, they begin to “shine” for others: spreading joy, radiating positivity, loving, and creating for them.

It is beneficial if the native chooses a profession involving creativity, the stage, teaching, education, or management.

North Node in Virgo, South Node in Pisces

A person with the South Node in Pisces tends to go with the flow and often takes on the problems of others. However, in this lifetime, it is important for the native not to be overly soft, sensitive, or disconnected from reality. The North Node in Virgo calls for the conscious development of practicality, a strong work ethic, and a rational approach to daily affairs.

It is advisable for the native to choose a field that requires the use of intellectual and analytical abilities. Someone attuned to their karmic path may become a successful writer, scientist, administrator, doctor, and so on.

North Node in Libra, South Node in Aries

The native with the South Node in Aries is used to taking initiative, acting energetically, and handling matters independently. In this incarnation, the person is encouraged to move away from this pattern, as it may lead to wasted effort and stagnation.

Instead, the path dictated by the North Node in Libra asks for diplomacy, consideration of others’ opinions, seeking partnerships, and building harmonious, trusting relationships. The meaning of life may be found through business cooperation or marriage.

Moreover, Libra is a creative sign, so the native can thrive in artistic fields.

North Node in Scorpio, South Node in Taurus

A native with the South Node in Taurus is talented, hardworking, and fond of comfort and a stable life filled with simple, earthly pleasures. However, it is necessary to move beyond these karmic patterns. Progressing along the path of the North Node in Scorpio requires not just personal effort, but the ability to direct the energies of others toward one’s goals.

The native needs to work through and develop insight, willpower, and resilience. It is important not to fear loss, but to learn to take risks—investing in promising ventures can bring much greater rewards.

The life mission of someone with the North Node in Scorpio may involve finance, politics, or careers such as detective, forensic expert, athlete, or military personnel.

North Node in Sagittarius, South Node in Gemini

A person with the South Node in Gemini is accustomed to a lively lifestyle, frequent travel, learning, and socializing. However, in this lifetime, the native is called to develop a more elevated and philosophical mindset. Restless activity can drain energy and time, while repetitive tasks lead to little personal growth.

Choosing to follow the North Node brings freedom from dependency on others’ opinions, getting stuck in details, and lack of independence.

It is beneficial for the native to pursue teaching, research, or to independently generate and share progressive ideas and new philosophical concepts.

North Node in Capricorn, South Node in Cancer

With the North Node in Capricorn, the native is encouraged to develop ambition, diligence, and the ability to achieve goals despite obstacles. The South Node in Cancer, representing past habits, may incline the person toward excessive emotionality, withdrawal into one’s inner world, and focusing on personal needs. However, it is important to step out of this comfort zone.

A person fulfills their karmic task only upon reaching significant heights in their field, be it politics, science (such as mathematics), creativity (architecture), or another endeavor.

North Node in Aquarius, South Node in Leo

A native with the South Node in Leo knows their worth and is able to showcase their talents and gifts. However, in this incarnation, it is important to move away from egocentric behaviors. The North Node in Aquarius calls for focusing on others, helping them realize and accept themselves, and unlocking their creative potential.

The mission here is not to isolate oneself or one’s individuality, but to unite with friends and like-minded people in pursuit of shared, humanitarian goals.

The native may choose a profession related to people and society—such as psychologist, sociologist, journalist, or writer. There may also be interest in unusual or rare fields (inventor, astrologer, space researcher, test pilot, etc.).

North Node in Pisces, South Node in Virgo

A native with the South Node in Virgo is skilled at organizing, analyzing, and putting things in order. However, in this lifetime, it is necessary to develop entirely different qualities: psychological insight, intuitive thinking, and the ability to detach from details and exist amid uncertainty.

In many cases, rational thinking and perfectly planned actions may lead to mistakes. The person will benefit more by trusting sudden insights, using imagination, and approaching work creatively. Those with the North Node in Pisces can find fulfillment in art, as well as in religion, psychology, or the occult sciences.

Lunar Nodes in the Houses

North (Rahu) Node in the First House, South (Ketu) Node in the Seventh House

This configuration of the nodes points to the need for self-discovery and connecting with one’s origins. By understanding themselves—their goals, motivations, desires, and behaviors—the native can fully engage with others and succeed in partnerships.

Often, this placement brings complex situations in personal life. Partners, whether marital or business, are drawn to the native for karmic reasons. Through interactions, living, and working with them, the person works through longstanding issues carried over from past incarnations. In this context, it is not helpful to change partners frequently in search of someone “better.” By changing internally, one transforms their immediate environment. The kinder, more compassionate, and spiritually aware the native becomes, the more positive and conscious their companion will be.

North Node (Rahu) in the Second House, South Node (Ketu) in the Eighth House

With this placement, the native must be attentive to matters involving money, movable assets, and financial investments. Mistakes made in life will reflect in the person’s material situation. Conversely, the more good deeds the native performs, the more prosperous their life will be.

A person with the South Node in the Eighth House should not rely on the resources of partners or others. Instead, it is crucial to develop personal talents and skills, master one’s craft, and work diligently. This enables financial independence and helps avoid temptations related to money.

North Node (Rahu) in the Third House, South Node (Ketu) in the Ninth House

A native with this nodal placement will find their purpose and place in life by actively learning, meeting new people, and communicating with those around them. To achieve happiness and success, it is not necessary to graduate from several universities, complete internships abroad, or defend a doctoral dissertation.

The information essential for life may be simple and easily accessible, and there is no need to seek out a Teacher in order to learn how to handle everyday matters. Knowledge gained through interactions with the world can be applied immediately in daily life. This gives the person flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to quickly find their bearings in complex circumstances.

A person who has done and continues to do many good deeds may quite unexpectedly and freely receive the information they need. As karmic retribution for wrongdoing, the native may experience slander or false accusations.

North Node (Rahu) in the Fourth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Tenth House

The Node in the Fourth House indicates the importance of investing in family, respecting traditional values, and maintaining relationships with parents and children. It is beneficial for the native to resolve their housing situation as early as possible and create a comfortable, cozy home. Activities such as cooking, raising children, and organizing harmonious living spaces are favorable.

The native should avoid excessive ambition and pragmatism. It will be difficult to achieve career aspirations without a solid foundation in the form of family support.

In a broader sense, the North Node in the Fourth House symbolizes service to one’s homeland and love for one’s country. Recognition and success will come if the person chooses a profession such as historian, military officer, politician, etc., and fulfills their duties honestly.

North Node (Rahu) in the Fifth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Eleventh House

A native with the North Node in the Fifth House can fulfill their karmic tasks by devoting themselves to creative, stage, or public activities. It is important to spend time with children, make room for entertainment, favorite hobbies, and sports. The meaning of life lies in activities that bring joy and make the soul feel light. The positive energy of a creative person will ignite and inspire those around them.

Often, the person with the South Node in the Eleventh House has to resolve issues related to friends and groups. However, there is no need to seek the approval of like-minded people or devote excessive personal time to them. The more happiness, friendliness, and enthusiasm the native radiates, the more people are drawn to them.

North Node (Rahu) in the Sixth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Twelfth House

A native with the Nodes in these houses will face the necessity to work and serve for the benefit of others. The North Node in the Sixth House directly indicates the need to provide practical, effective help to those around them. It is important to be hardworking and efficient, as this will help the native avoid many problems—internal conflicts, lack of meaning, instability, and illusions.

In this case, there is no need for excessive introspection or searching for light within oneself. Nor should the person sacrifice themselves for others. The right course of action is to choose the path of a practitioner, innovator, and active contributor.

If the native follows the right path and does good deeds, they will enjoy good health and may even be able to heal others.

North Node (Rahu) in the Seventh House, South Node (Ketu) in the First House

When the Node is located in the Seventh House, the native should direct all efforts toward building harmonious relationships with a marriage partner and establishing successful business partnerships. By focusing on the goals, desires, and needs of others, the person can gain new self-awareness and overcome personal psychological barriers.

The South Node in the First House indicates that the person should not waste precious time promoting their own ideas, worrying about their image, or pursuing personal ambitions.

Things will go much better if the native finds good partners, defines common goals, and works collaboratively to achieve them.

North Node (Rahu) in the Eighth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Second House

A person fulfills their karmic tasks by managing other people’s financial resources. This always involves risk and great responsibility, but the sooner the native overcomes their inner fears, the stronger and more successful they become. One should not settle for what one already has. It is necessary to build up resources and use them to expand personal influence in society. Politics and business are typical areas for the realization of karmic potential.

The native may choose a dangerous profession, such as a military officer, surgeon, athlete, rescuer, stunt performer, and so on. These and many other occupations teach one not to fear facing danger head-on.

North Node (Rahu) in the Ninth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Third House

The Node in the Ninth House indicates that throughout life, the native needs to continually broaden their horizons. One should not remain limited to a familiar circle of acquaintances. Knowledge of basic truths will not allow for significant breakthroughs. To approach one’s life purpose, it is necessary to obtain higher education, travel extensively, engage in creative (including intellectual) pursuits, and communicate with people from different cultures.

A philosophical outlook and numerous accomplishments (in science, sports, religion, politics, art, entrepreneurship, and so on) can lead to a path of enlightenment and publishing.

A person acting in harmony with their karmic task may find joy and luck abroad. If they commit serious offenses, they may face accusations and even legal proceedings.

North Node (Rahu) in the Tenth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Fourth House

For those with the Node in the Tenth House, it is essential to find their true calling and fulfill themselves professionally. This will bring the desired stability, prosperity, and joy in life. There is no need to hide one’s ambitions from others. The Node in the Tenth House rewards those who set goals, work hard, and strive to reach the highest peaks in life.

Often, the native spends their time dealing only with home, family, or real estate matters. Despite the effort spent, the number of related issues only increases. In this case, it is necessary to approach tasks from a different perspective. Finding a higher goal and working diligently toward an important mission will help attract people willing to support and assist in difficult times.

North Node (Rahu) in the Eleventh House, South Node (Ketu) in the Fifth House

The Node in the Eleventh House indicates that the native should devote considerable time to friends and participating in group activities. An active social life is the most effective way to resolve karmic challenges.
If the person follows the path of the South Node in the Fifth House, they may encounter difficulties with self-expression and creativity. Relationships with children may be challenging, and hobbies may be short-lived and not bring much joy.

Choosing the right path brings the native pleasant surprises and discoveries, monetary gifts, unexpected patronage, support, and generosity from friends.

North Node (Rahu) in the Twelfth House, South Node (Ketu) in the Sixth House

A native with the North Node in the Twelfth House needs to make time in life for spiritual practices, charity, and creative pursuits. In interactions with others, it is important to show kindness, gentleness, patience, and compassion. This approach will bring a sense of inner comfort and peace, even if, from time to time, one encounters periods of solitude, limitation, or sacrifices for the sake of others.
If the person accepts their fate with humility, patiently overcomes life’s difficulties, and willingly and sincerely helps those close to them, they will attain inner harmony and a sense of being on the right path.  ✓