Nakshatra · Lunar Mansion 18/27
Jyeshtha Nakshatra ज्येष्ठा
seniority · power · protection · responsibility
Jyeshtha is "the eldest" — the nakshatra of seniority and hard-won power, ruled by Indra the king of gods. Its natives carry authority and responsibility, often elevated yet lonely at the top, protectors who bear heavy burdens.
| Number | 18th of 27 |
|---|---|
| Zodiac span | 16°40′–30°00′ Scorpio |
| Ruling planet (Vimshottari) | Mercury (Budha) |
| Deity | Indra (king of the gods) |
| Symbol | A circular amulet, an umbrella, an earring |
| Gana (temperament) | Rakshasa |
| Yoni (animal) | Deer (male) |
| Nadi (Ayurvedic) | Adi (Vata) |
| Sanskrit | ज्येष्ठा |
Symbol & deity
Jyeshtha's symbol is a circular amulet, an umbrella, an earring, and its presiding deity is Indra (king of the gods). Its special power — its shakti — is the power to rise and conquer (arohana shakti). Together these encode the nakshatra's core lesson and gift.
Personality & traits
Strengths: Capable, protective, responsible, wise and a natural elder or leader.
Challenges: Secretive, controlling, burdened, proud and prone to isolation.
Ruling planet — Mercury
Jyeshtha is ruled by Mercury in the Vimshottari system, so a Jyeshtha Moon sets Mercury's dasha as the first major life period, and Mercury's nature deeply colours the personality. intellect, speech, commerce — the prince and the messenger.
Career & vocation
Senior leadership, the military and police, occult and intelligence work, management.