In this article we provide a detailed overview of Ketu in Cancer as well as its impact in each of the 12 houses of the zodiac. Do you have Ketu in Cancer in your horoscope? If so then this article is for you.
Ketu
Like Rahu, Ketu is not included in the practice of Western astrology. Ketu’s position is calculated at the moon’s South node, or the point where the moon’s southward path crosses the earth’s ecliptic.
In the Puranas, Ketu is described as the headless body of the demon Rahu after he is decapitated by the Goddess Mohini, a female avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Similar to Rahu, Ketu does not have a day of the week.
The position of Ketu in the zodiac is always exactly opposite that of Rahu. They revolve at the same pace, as an inseparable pair. Ketu moves through the twelve signs in 18 years, seven months, and nine days, spending about 18 months and 18 days in each individual sign.
When looking at a chart, Ketu represents the following:
- Apathy, impermanence, and salvation
- Astrologers, saints, and philosophers
- Orphans, divorcees, and victims
- Loss, hopelessness, and abandonment
- Fever, wounds, and pain
- Oneness, dissolution of values, and nihilism
- Surrender, severance, wandering
- Out-of-body experiences, and mysticism
- Setbacks, frustration, and failure
LEARN MORE: The Puranas provide an advanced understanding of our universe, including descriptions of life on other planets. Check out our guide to Vedic Cosmology.
Cancer: The Sign of the Crab
Cancer is the fourth sign of the zodiac. In Vedic astrology, Cancer is known by the Sanskrit name karkata, or “the crab.” The sign of Cancer possesses a resilient, compassionate, and creative nature. Cancer is a sign of emotion. In an astrological chart, it indicates areas where you are sentimental and nurturing in your efforts.
Basic Traits
Ruled by the Moon. The moon is known as the planet of the mind, emotions, and creativity. He brings a sensitive and oscillating energy to the house he inhabits.
A water sign. Cancer is perceptive, artistic, and sentimental.
A movable sign. Capricorn is fluid, spontaneous, and fond of change.
A feminine sign. Capricorn is receptive, sensitive, and empathetic.
Areas of Influence
Cancer influences its planetary lord in the following areas:
- Creativity and artistry
- Emotional expression and mental health
- Intuition and sensitivity
- Compassion and maternal instincts
- Adaptability
Traits of Ketu in Cancer
The influence of Ketu in a birth chart will change depending on which house it is located in, its relative position in relation to other planets, as well as other factors. However, the following general traits are likely to be found in a native who has Ketu in Cancer:
You are aloof from family and tradition. You do not like to feel tied down to your family members or your ancestral background. You wish to define yourself on your own terms, in your own way.
You struggle with parenting. You show little interest in caring for children, and you may choose not to have any children at all. Parenting and childcare is not something you give much importance to.
You may have identity issues. There is a persisting feeling that you do not know exactly who you are or what your place is in life. You feel ungrounded. If you follow this feeling to spiritual inquiry, you can discover your eternal identity as a spiritual being.
You lack direction in life. In general you are dispassionate about your material life. You aren't exactly unhappy, but you also do not feel fully content. You live in a kind of limbo space where you don't know what you want or what will make you happy.
Your mother may be absent. You may have a distant relationship with your mother, or perhaps due to illness or untimely death, she may be otherwise absent from your life.
Ketu in Cancer in the 12 Houses
Every natal chart is unique. It is not possible to give a fully accurate reading without considering the various elements of the chart, including planetary combinations, aspects, friendships, directional strength, and more.
The traits below are general indications which will change depending on the influence of the factors listed above.
In the First House
The first house symbolizes physique and self-expression. You may struggle with chronic disappointments and depression. You may have difficulties in your relationships. You can be restless and a bit of a worrier.
In the Second House
The second house symbolizes wealth and cultural traditions. You are not satisfied with your education, and as a result you have a hard time earning money. You use foul language and are a harsh critic of others, even your friends.
In the Third House
The third house symbolizes siblings, courage, and literary works. You are very intelligent and physically powerful. You can accumulate wealth and other assets over the course of your lifetime. You may have disputes with your siblings.
In the Fourth House
The fourth house symbolizes one’s mother, home, and basic beliefs. You are likely to lose money from properties or a spoiled inheritance. You have a hypocritical tendency, and you may live abroad.
In the Fifth House
The fifth house symbolizes children, creative works, and overall success. You are intelligent and a keen learner. You can be wicked when you are in a bad state of mind. You suffer illnesses of the stomach. You like learning, and you can make money in agriculture.
In the Sixth House
The sixth house symbolizes debt, disease, and service. You are highly determined and you always accomplish the goals you set out to achieve. You may lose money due to bad investments. Your family and friends admire you, but you may not fully reciprocate their affection. You will be less happy in your youth.
In the Seventh House
The seventh house symbolizes the spouse, marital happiness, and sexual desire. This is an unfavorable position for Ketu. You will have difficulty in marital relationships, and you will have no steady home. You make take up an immoral occupation to maintain yourself.
In the Eighth House
The eighth house symbolizes death, calamities, and interest in the occult. You can earn money through business and hard work. Your children may also bring you wealth over time. You face many challenges and obstacles in life.
In the Ninth House
The ninth house symbolizes religion and morality. You are inclined toward religion, but you have a foul temper. You like to visit holy places. You are of above average intelligence, but you are prone to excessive pride.
In the Tenth House
The tenth house symbolizes one’s father, career, and reputation. You are courageous and industrious. You possess exceptional intelligence. You are drawn to spirituality and philosophical topics. However, you may act in immoral ways in the face of temptation.
In the Eleventh House
The eleventh house symbolizes gains, aspirations, and friendships. You can make a lot of money through investments and other ventures. You are intelligence and popular, and you are a gifted speaker.
In the Twelfth House
The twelfth house symbolizes losses, misfortune, and liberation. You may suffer various health issues. You do not listen to good advice. You are prone to anxiety. You spend money on useless pursuits, and you struggle to find lasting happiness.
Learn More About Vedic Astrology
Expand your knowledge of astrology! Check out our guides to Vedic Astrology and the nine planets, known collectively in Sanskrit as the nava-graha. You can also learn about the differences between Western and Vedic astrology.
The Twelve Signs of the Zodiac
| Aries | Taurus | Gemini |
| Cancer | Leo | Virgo |
| Libra | Scorpio | Sagittarius |
| Capricorn | Aquarius | Pisces |