Astrological Mythology The Meaning of ... - Mandhata Global

9 KETU
THE SOUTH NODE OF THE MOON
Ketu, the descending or south lunar node, forms an integral part of the
serpent. As mentioned earlier, Vasuki, the ruling serpent of the nether world
was used in the churning operation as a rope tied around the central rod
formed by the mountain Mandara. Upon retrieval of the nectar from the
ocean, the gods did not want to share it with the demons. Vasuki
surreptitiously sneaked among the gods and partook of a portion of the
nectar but was soon detected. The gods became angry and Vishnu hurled his
discus at the serpent but as it had already partaken of the nectar it could not
be destroyed. It was merely divided in two. The upper portion of the serpent
became Rahu and the lower Ketu. Outwardly, they began to function as
Rahu and Ketu, but together they continued to represent the great cyclic law
of manifestation that sustains the universe.
Basically, Rahu and Ketu represent karmic retribution. They link present
restrictions and opportunities with past actions. They arrange events in such
a way that harmonious balance ultimately prevails. A long time may be
needed before this result is achieved, during which period the individual
may experience much frustration and sorrow. But the nodes will finally
achieve the needed results.
The ultimate harmony requires a radical reorientation in one's life pattern.
This situation is reached when the individual is exasperated in his
helplessness. As a result of insurmountable misfortune he begins to look
within and turns his gaze heaven-ward. In the process he begins to explore
the natural laws operating in life and a new consciousness dawns within
him. Then he begins to harmonize his everyday life to establish an
equilibrium between himself and the universal life. When the inner thought
process is awakened, the individual may develop his intuitive perception and
find the right course of living without first being drawn into the vortex of
personal calamity. Whatever the impetus to reorient one's life pattern, a basic
restructuring of one's thought and action is essential for achieving harmony