In this article we provide a detailed overview of Rahu in Cancer as well as its impact in each of the 12 houses of the zodiac. Do you have Rahu in Cancer in your horoscope? If so then this article is for you.
Rahu
Rahu is unique to Vedic astrology and does not have an equivalent in the Western approach. From an astronomical perspective, Rahu is known as the North node of the moon, or the point where the moon’s northward path intersects Earth’s ecliptic plane. When the sun, moon, earth, and Rahu are all in alignment, and the moon is either a full moon or dark moon, then eclipses occur.
In eclipse lore around the world, the event of an eclipse nearly always implies a “disruption of the established order,” in which a malevolent celestial being attempts to devour the sun. For instance, in ancient Chinese culture, it was believed that eclipses were caused by a sky dragon who wanted to swallow the sun. In Vietnamese culture, it was a massive toad; in some Native American cultures, it was a giant bear; in Egypt, it was a celestial serpent; and in Norse mythology, a pair of wolves chased the sun and moon, and when they caught up with either one, an eclipse occurred.
These various stories seem to stem from the Vedic Puranas, wherein the demon Rahu, the lunar node, is described as a disembodied head who periodically swallows the sun and moon. However, the sun and moon quickly escape through the hole at the base of Rahu’s neck.
Considered to be an outcaste among the planetary bodies, Rahu does not have it’s own weekday.
As the second-slowest planet, Rahu revolves around the zodiac in 18 years, seven months, and nine days. Rahu spends approximately 18 months and 18 days in each individual sign.
When interpreting a chart, Rahu represents the following:
- Obsession, false logic, and recklessness
- Debt, gambling, and madness
- Widows, foreigners, and outcastes
- Disease, accidents, and afflictions
- Cheating, corruption, and bad character
- Risk, poison, and pretension
- Immense power, fear, and violence
- Disillusionment and radical change
- Eccentricity and breaking with tradition
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 Rahu in Cancer
The influence of Rahu 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 Rahu in Cancer:
You are drawn to your roots. You tend to obsess over your ethnic heritage and cultural roots. You take pride in your race and nationality. It is a major part of your identity and lends a feeling of importance to your life.
You may obsess over your home life. You try to make an ideal “nest” at home, and often spend hours contemplating how to redesign or remodel your space to make it more comfortable, attractive, and so on.
You can amass wealth through property. You are drawn to accumulating property and can become a wealthy landowner. You may lead a successful profession as a real estate broker or landlord.
You have tense relations with family. You are likely to have difficult relationships with your family members, especially with your mother.
You care for others. You have a humanitarian side, and you enjoy helping others in need. However, a big part of your motive is for the recognition you gain for your acts of self-sacrifice.
Rahu 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 possess physical strength and can become very wealthy. However, you are likely to have disappointing romantic relations. You have a cruel streak and may act in hurtful ways toward the people in your life.
In the Second House
The second house symbolizes wealth and cultural traditions. You are brave and have little fear of others or of challenging circumstances. You like to talk, but you may be prone to deceit. You do not like to take advice even from those who wish to help you.
In the Third House
The third house symbolizes siblings, courage, and literary works. You are very determined and self-confident. You are intelligent, outgoing, and optimistic. You are friendly, but you don’t like to go out of your way to help others. You will live a long life.
In the Fourth House
The fourth house symbolizes one’s mother, home, and basic beliefs. You are likely to suffer in your family relationships. You struggle to find happiness in your life. You find yourself repeating the same mistakes.
In the Fifth House
The fifth house symbolizes children, creative works, and overall success. You are intelligent and a keen learner. You can be hard-hearted at times. You may struggle to attain peace of mind.
In the Sixth House
The sixth house symbolizes debt, disease, and service. You are courageous and a fighter at heart. You face many enemies, but in the end you will emerge victorious. You may suffer in the early part of life, but in your later years you will feel happy.
In the Seventh House
The seventh house symbolizes the spouse, marital happiness, and sexual desire. You are proud and overly confident in yourself. You are inclined toward multiple romantic relationships. You may lose money due to frivolous spending. Rahu in the 7th house is a cause of misfortune.
In the Eighth House
The eighth house symbolizes death, calamities, and interest in the occult. You may become sick, either physically or mentally. You are not likely to have many children. You also may not live a long life, depending on other planetary placements.
In the Ninth House
The ninth house symbolizes religion and morality. You are intelligent, but you can be argumentative at times. You are determined in your work and do not like to leave aside a project unfinished. You have strong relationships with your siblings.
In the Tenth House
The tenth house symbolizes one’s father, career, and reputation. You are hardworking and fearless. You enjoy struggle since you come out of it with a sense of accomplishment. You are good with money, but somehow you still don’t end up with as much of it as you would like. You worry excessively.
In the Eleventh House
The eleventh house symbolizes gains, aspirations, and friendships. You possess above-average wealth and will live a long life. You are intelligent and you like to travel. You can become famous. You will receive good advice from friends and mentors.
In the Twelfth House
The twelfth house symbolizes losses, misfortune, and liberation. You may suffer various health issues. You are prone to secrecy, and you may commit unbecoming acts. You may amass great wealth, but your friends may not be the best sort of people.
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 |
