Atmakaraka: your soul planet and what it says about your purpose

In Jaimini astrology, the planet at the highest degree in its sign is called the Atmakaraka, or soul planet. It is said to show what your soul most wants and the lessons you are here to learn. Many people find it a deeply personal part of their chart.

How it is found

Take the degree of each of the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn within its sign, ignoring which sign it is in. The planet with the highest degree is the Atmakaraka. Rahu and Ketu are not used in this method.

What each soul planet wants

• Sun: recognition, dignity and a sense of purpose.
• Moon: care, belonging and emotional security.
• Mars: courage, action and standing up for something.
• Mercury: learning, communication and understanding.
• Jupiter: wisdom, teaching and meaning.
• Venus: love, harmony and beauty.
• Saturn: duty, discipline and mastery through effort.

The Karakamsa

The sign that the Atmakaraka occupies in the Navamsa chart is called the Karakamsa. It shows the field in which the soul seeks expression, such as service, teaching, art or leadership. Planets in or aspecting it add detail.

Karma and past life

The Atmakaraka is linked with the story the soul brings with it. Where it sits, and what touches it, shows the lessons and gifts that run through your life. It is read gently and without blame. It is not a story of sin, only of growth.

Ask yourself if the soul planet matches what you feel you want most. If it does, build more of your life around it.