A planet is retrograde (vakri) when, seen from Earth, it appears to move backwards through the zodiac. It is an optical effect: Earth overtakes an outer planet, or an inner planet overtakes Earth, and for a while the planet seems to reverse. Astrologically, it is anything but trivial.
Which planets go retrograde
- Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn go retrograde periodically. Mercury does so about three times a year, for roughly three weeks each time; Saturn for about four and a half months every year.
- The Sun and Moon never go retrograde.
- Rahu and Ketu move backwards by their mean motion almost all the time, so they are treated as always retrograde.
How retrograde planets are read in a birth chart
Classical texts treat a retrograde planet as strong (cheshta bala, motional strength, is highest when a planet is retrograde), because a retrograde planet is closest to Earth and brightest. But its strength is expressed differently:
- results can be delayed, internalised or unconventional;
- the person often revisits the matters of that planet, re-learning or redoing them;
- some astrologers read the planet as also acting from the previous sign;
- a retrograde benefic can give unexpected gains; a retrograde malefic can intensify its lessons.
A retrograde planet that is exalted is often said to behave somewhat like a debilitated one, and the reverse, though astrologers differ on how far to take this.
Retrograde transits
When planets turn retrograde in transit:
- Mercury retrograde is linked with miscommunication, delays and second thoughts: a good time to review, revise and repair, and a time to double-check contracts and travel.
- Jupiter and Saturn retrograde often bring back matters from the previous months for completion, especially if they re-enter a previous sign.
- Venus retrograde (about every 18 months) is traditionally avoided for weddings and new relationships.
Keep proportion
Retrogression modifies a planet; it does not override its sign, house, dignity and dasha. Many successful people have several retrograde planets. Read it as a texture, not a verdict.
Common questions
Is a retrograde planet in my birth chart weak?
No. Classically it gains motional strength. Its results tend to come in a less conventional or more delayed way, often after a second attempt.
Should I avoid signing contracts during Mercury retrograde?
Many people prefer to, or at least to double-check details. If you must sign, read carefully and allow time for revisions.
Are Rahu and Ketu retrograde?
Their mean motion is always backwards, so they are treated as permanently retrograde and are not read the way other retrograde planets are.
Our free birth chart marks retrograde planets with "R".