What Does Saturn Represent in Astrology? Meanings & More

Co-authored by Stina Garbis and Jessica Gibson

Last Updated: April 7, 2022 References

You probably know that Saturn is powerful, but what is its impact on Vedic astrology? Unlike Western astrology, Vedic astrology considers Saturn to be the most distant planet since it doesn't recognize the recently found outer planets—Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. As one of the largest planets, it has a big impact on your birth chart. Read on for answers to your questions about this often misunderstood planet.

Section 1 of 4:

What are Saturn's characteristics?

Saturn is called Shani or Sanischara in Sanskrit which means slow mover. As the farthest planet from the Sun in Vedic astrology, Saturn is the slowest moving planet. It takes 29 1/2 years for the planet to move through the zodiac once. At a glance, Saturn is known by these traits:^{[1]
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- Ruling deity: Yama, God of Death
- Element: Air, Earth
- Day of the week: Saturday
- Number: 8
- Symbol: Water, Goat

Section 2 of 4:

What zodiac signs does Saturn naturally rule?

Saturn naturally rules Capricorn and Aquarius. Capricorns are well-known for their hard work and dedication, so it's not too surprising that Saturn provides them the structure to succeed. It may be more surprising that Saturn rules Aquarius, the freethinking outsiders of the zodiac. However, Saturn rules Aquarius's good judgment and desire to lead.^{[2]
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- Note that in Western astrology, Aquarius is ruled by Uranus, not Saturn.

Section 3 of 4:

Nature of Planet Saturn

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Saturn is the teacher or judge that bestows karma. This is the planet (also called graha in Vedic astrology) that rewards or punishes your actions, so it sees everything you do. If Saturn is advantageously placed in your birth chart, think of it as a reward for good deeds in a past life.^{[3]
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- For instance, if Saturn is in your Tenth House, known for career and achievements, you'll enjoy success from your hard work.
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Saturn symbolizes discipline and duty. It rules hard work, laws, expectations, and philosophy—basically all of the systems that provide structure in the world. Saturn pushes you to succeed and expects you to be accountable.^{[4]
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- Vedic astrologers believe that Saturn is the planet of servants, workers, and prisoners.
- Since it's so closely tied to your work and career, Saturn also influences debt and poverty.
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Saturn challenges you and shows you your limits. It's sometimes called the planet of loss because it helps you realize what you're powerless to change. In fact, the planet might reveal obstacles in your life. People with strong Saturn in their chart can thrive even with these challenges while people with weak or afflicted Saturn might not be responsible or motivated.^{[5]
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- In the end, Saturn also governs your lifespan and death since it's ruled by Yama, the God of Death.
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Saturn is responsible for quick judgments and decision-making. This planet is definitely not indecisive! Its placement can be helpful since it shows you where something needs to be done. However, Saturn's decisiveness can also make you seem bold or condescending.^{[6]
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Expert Source

Stina Garbis
Psychic Astrologer
Expert Interview. 10 December 2021.}
- This is especially true if you're a Capricorn since your sign is naturally ruled by Saturn.

Section 4 of 4:

Saturn in Your Chart

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Find your birth chart to see if Saturn is in a beneficial placement. Benefic planets simply mean planets that have a positive influence. Do a web search for "free birth chart calculator" and enter your birthday, time of birth, and location. The calculator automatically creates your chart and you can read where Saturn is placed. Ideally, you want Saturn in the Seventh House, Tenth House, or Eleventh House where it will improve your efforts in close relationships, career, and your social groups.^{[7]
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Check your ascendant sign to see if Saturn is benefic. Your ascendant sign is the sign that's ascending on the eastern horizon of your chart—look at the First House in your birth chart to find it. Saturn is helpful if you have any of these astrological signs as the ascendant:^{[8]
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- Taurus
- Virgo
- Libra
- Capricorn
- Aquarius
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Look for malefic Saturn placement in your chart. While malefic sounds bad and often means a planet has negative influences, it doesn't necessarily mean challenges or bad traits. It might just mean that you have creativity or talent that's hidden. You may also be skilled in giving advice, although you may use your persuasive skills for your own purposes. Saturn is considered malefic in these houses:^{[9]
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- The First House
- The Fifth House
- The Eighth House
- The Twelfth House