An exalted planet is in its most powerful and beneficial state, signifying the highest expression of its qualities. This occurs when a planet occupies a specific zodiac sign where it is believed to function at its peak efficiency.

• Key Points:

  • Each planet has one sign where it is exalted.
  • The exaltation of a planet generally brings auspicious results, amplifying the positive traits of that planet.
  • The specific degree of maximum exaltation within the sign is called the deep exaltation point.

• Exaltation Signs:

  • Sun: Aries (10°)
  • Moon: Taurus (3°)
  • Mars: Capricorn (28°)
  • Mercury: Virgo (15°)
  • Jupiter: Cancer (5°)
  • Venus: Pisces (27°)
  • Saturn: Libra (20°)
  • Rahu: Taurus (controversial, some traditions use Gemini)
  • Ketu: Scorpio (controversial, some traditions use Sagittarius)

Debilitated Planets

A debilitated planet is in its weakest state, which can cause challenges or difficulties in expressing its energies. It occurs when a planet is in a zodiac sign opposite to its exaltation sign.

• Key Points:

  • Each planet has one sign where it is debilitated.
  • Debilitation weakens the planet, making it harder for it to deliver favorable results unless corrected by other factors like cancellation (Neechabhanga Raja Yoga).
  • The specific degree of maximum debilitation is called the deep debilitation point.

• Debilitation Signs:

  • Sun: Libra (10°)
  • Moon: Scorpio (3°)
  • Mars: Cancer (28°)
  • Mercury: Pisces (15°)
  • Jupiter: Capricorn (5°)
  • Venus: Virgo (27°)
  • Saturn: Aries (20°)
  • Rahu: Scorpio (controversial, some traditions use Sagittarius)
  • Ketu: Taurus (controversial, some traditions use Gemini)

Combust Planets

Combustion occurs when a planet is too close to the Sun in a natal chart. The intense heat of the Sun diminishes the planet’s strength and ability to function effectively.

• Key Points:

  • The proximity of combustion varies by planet:
    • Moon: within 12° of the Sun
    • Mercury: within 14° (or 12° if retrograde) of the Sun
    • Venus: within 10° (or 8° if retrograde) of the Sun
    • Mars: within 17° of the Sun
    • Jupiter: within 11° of the Sun
    • Saturn: within 15° of the Sun
  • Combustion reduces the planet’s positive influence and can make its energy feel “overpowered” by the Sun.

• Exceptions:

  • Retrograde planets can show varying effects even when combust.
  • Some astrologers consider the condition of the planet in other divisional charts to determine if combustion is truly debilitating.

Impact in a Chart

• Exalted planets often enhance confidence, opportunities, and positive outcomes.
• Debilitated planets can indicate struggles, delays, or challenges in areas ruled by that planet unless mitigated by yogas.
• Combust planets might lead to hidden struggles or difficulties in manifesting the planet’s energy externally.

Balancing these influences often involves remedies such as mantra chanting, wearing gemstones, or performing rituals. The overall impact depends on the entire chart configuration, including aspects, conjunctions, and divisional chart analysis.