What is the Difference Between Rahu and Ketu?

Rahu and Ketu are known as the lunar nodes in Hindu astrology. They are considered shadow planets and have distinct characteristics. The main differences between Rahu and Ketu are:

1. Position: Rahu is the North Node, while Ketu is the South Node of the Moon.
2. Nature: Rahu is associated with materialism, worldly desires, ambition, and power. Ketu, on the other hand, is associated with spirituality, detachment, renunciation, and liberation.
3. Effects: Rahu is considered malefic and can cause enticement, leading individuals towards self-destruction to test their abilities. Ketu is also considered malefic but can cause enlightenment and spiritual growth by bringing in past life knowledge and encouraging detachment.
4. Mythology: In Indian mythology, Rahu is the head of the serpent that tried to drink the nectar of immortality, while Ketu is the lower part of the serpent.
5. Periods: Rahu has an 18-year period, while Ketu has a 7-year period in the planetary life cycle.
6. Appearance: Rahu is of a dark color, while Ketu sports a mixed color.

In summary, Rahu and Ketu represent the karmic axis in a Vedic astrology chart and influence different aspects of an individual's life. Rahu is associated with materialism and worldly desires, while Ketu is linked to spirituality and detachment.

Comparative Table: Rahu vs Ketu

Rahu and Ketu are the two shadow planets in Vedic astrology, representing the north and south nodes of the moon, respectively. They are critical points in a birth chart, paving the way for karmic analysis and judgment. Here is a table highlighting the differences between Rahu and Ketu:

In summary, Rahu is associated with material desires, power, and wealth, while Ketu is connected to spiritual growth, renunciation, and liberation from worldly affairs.