Venus is going through the yearly journey of going from the Evening Star to the Morning Star, and this happens when Venus is conjunct the Sun, called a combustion in Vedic astrology. This year Venus will also be retrograde in Leo and Cancer, adding the gandanta zone to this journey, as well. We had our first Venus gandanta on June 30-July 17.

Here are the dates for the combustion, retrograde and gandanta forthcoming:

Venus retrograde: July 22-September 4

2nd Gandanta: July 29-August 12

Exact Conjunction: August 13

1st Combustion: August 7-20

3rd Gandanta: September 26-October 6

Combustion

In Vedic astrology, the concept of combustion refers to the proximity of a planet to the Sun. When a planet is situated too close to the Sun, it is said to be “combust,” and its effects and significations may be weakened or altered. The specific degrees of combustion vary slightly depending on different astrologers and traditions.

However, a commonly accepted range for combustion is said to be when a planet is within 15 degrees on either side of the Sun.
The degrees of combustion for different planets are as follows:

1. Sun: The Sun is not considered combust.
2. Moon: The Moon is typically considered combust within approximately 12 degrees on either side of the Sun.
3. Mercury: Mercury is generally considered combust within approximately 11 degrees on either side of the Sun.
4. Venus: Venus is often considered combust within approximately 10 degrees on either side of the Sun.
5. Mars, Jupiter, Saturn: These planets are generally considered combust within approximately 15 degrees on either side of the Sun.

It’s important to note that combustion is just one factor to consider in Vedic astrology, and the overall interpretation of a chart or planetary position requires a comprehensive understanding of various other factors and combinations.

Venus Combustion-Becoming the Morning Star

When Venus becomes combust the Sun, it means that it comes into close alignment with the Sun from Earth’s perspective. Because of this alignment, Venus is no longer visible from Earth during this phase.

As Venus transitions from the evening star to the Morning Star, it goes through different phases known as inferior conjunction and superior conjunction. When Venus is the evening star, it appears shortly after sunset in the western sky. However, during the combust phase, Venus is too close to the Sun to be observed, and it is considered to be invisible.

After the combust phase, as Venus moves away from the alignment with the Sun, it transitions into becoming the Morning Star. It slowly starts to rise before dawn in the eastern sky, appearing as a brilliant star heralding the coming of the day. This phase is often associated with new beginnings, inspiration, and fresh energy.

The Myth of Shukra

Yes, in Vedic astrology, there are several myths and stories associated with Venus becoming the Morning Star. One popular myth revolves around the deity Shukra, who is considered the guru of demons in Vedic astrology.

According to the myth, Shukra was the son of sage Bhrigu and became a powerful astrologer and scholar. As a reward for his devotion and knowledge, he was granted the planet Venus, which is named after him. In Vedic astrology, Venus represents love, beauty, creativity, luxury, and material possessions.

Legend has it that Shukra was once living in the ocean, but he desired to become the Morning Star, a position of greater prominence and influence. To achieve this, Shukra embarked on a rigorous penance for Lord Shiva, seeking his blessings. After several years of intense meditation and austerities, Lord Shiva was pleased with Shukra’s dedication and granted his wish.
As a result, Venus transitioned from being the evening star (Vesper) to the Morning Star (Lucifer). This change in position is believed to enhance Venus’ positive qualities and bring blessings of prosperity, harmony, and abundance.

In Vedic astrology, the transition of Venus from the evening star to the Morning Star is considered auspicious, symbolizing a shift towards fulfillment, optimism, and new beginnings. It is associated with positive transformations in matters related to love, relationships, creativity, and material possessions.

Venus Retrograde

In Vedic astrology, when Venus goes retrograde, its effects can vary based on the sign it is transiting through and the specific placements in an individual’s birth chart. Similarly, its impact in mundane astrology is described based on the astrological events occurring during that period and their influence on a collective level.
When Venus goes retrograde starting in Leo and then going back to Cancer, here are some general effects observed in both personal and mundane astrology:

1. Personal astrology:
– Relationships and Love: Venus is the planet of love, relationships, and beauty. During its retrograde period, there may be a reassessment and reflection upon matters of the heart. Existing relationships may undergo evaluations, leading to a re-consideration of values, commitment, and desires. Past romantic connections or unresolved issues may resurface for healing and closure.
– Self-esteem and Values: Retrograde Venus in Leo and Cancer can also impact one’s self-esteem, personal values, and self-worth. It may bring forth the need to re-evaluate how you perceive yourself and your desires, allowing for inner growth and a re-alignment of personal values.
– Creativity and Aesthetics: Venus in retrograde can create a period of introspection and evaluation of artistic endeavors, creativity, and aesthetic values. It may prompt individuals to find a renewed sense of inspiration or re-evaluate their artistic expressions.

2. Mundane astrology:
– Global Affairs: Retrograde Venus can have certain implications on broader societal ideologies and diplomatic relations. During this period, there may be a revaluation of peace treaties, alliances, trade agreements, and international relations. Issues related to women’s rights, equality, and matters of justice may also gain prominence in the public discourse.
– Economic Impact: Venus also governs finances, luxury, and material wealth. Retrograde motion can impact the overall economic conditions by creating uncertainties or needing reassessment of financial matters. This may have a broader impact on stock markets, investments, and global trade patterns.
– Social Dynamics: Retrograde Venus can have implications for social dynamics, cultural values, and an overall reassessment of societal norms. It may prompt individuals and communities to re-evaluate the existing structures, rediscover their values, and seek a greater sense of harmony and balance within society.

However, it is crucial to note that the specific effects of any planetary transit are highly dependent on numerous factors within an individual’s birth chart, as well as the broader astrological context. Consulting with a professional Vedic astrologer can provide more accurate insights personalized to an individual’s unique chart. To book a reading with me go to: