Saturday Night Fever

In ancient Hindu Astrology the planet Saturn is called "Shani" - the etymology of the word can be traced back to "shanaischara", which literally means, "slow mover". Indeed it is a slow mover, as we all know from our Grade 4 Geography lessons that Saturn takes 30 years to complete its orbit round the sun - the earth takes just 1. Hence, a slow-moving planet Saturn represents a loss of awareness, or ignorance.

This loss of awareness can also mean, in positive terms, the diminishing awareness and fondness for the material world - Saturn has a powerful influence on monks & ascetics - rich with inner spirituality but totally unconcerned for an existance on the material plane of life.

Saturn is a malefic planet and rules over the two signs of Capricorn and Aquarius. He is exalted in Libra, and fallen in Aries, the sign 180 degrees opposite of Libra. Saturn is an indicator of longevity, misery, sorrow, old age and death, discipline, restriction, responsibility, delays, ambition, leadership and authority, humility, integrity, wisdom born out of experience. Saturn also indicates asceticism, denial, non-attachment, spirituality, hard work and organization.
Example: One of the sureshot indicators of Saturn's influence is a meteoric rise in life, but if the power is abused then a humiliating downfall is bound to follow. Astrologers talk of Saturn's influence on Hitler and Mussolini during WW-II.

Saturn is most powerful in one's 7th House, and he is a particularly beneficial planet for Taurus & Libra Ascendants. Saturn's nature is "Airy", his direction is West & the day of his rulership is Saturday. He reaches full maturity at age 36. In Hindu scriptures Saturn is the son of the Sun.

A final note for the believers: The gemstone for warding off Saturn's cruel and evil influences is "Blue Sapphire".