About
Origin & Mythology
Guru, revered as Brihaspati, the Devaguru or preceptor of the gods, was born to the sage Angira and his wife Surupa, and rose to his exalted position not by birth alone but through immense penance. Puranic tradition recounts that he performed rigorous austerities to Lord Shiva at Prabhas Tirtha, and Shiva, pleased with his devotion, granted him both the status of Devaguru and the dignity of planethood among the Navagrahas - a boon that made him the wisest counsel the celestial court could turn to in its long struggle against the Asuras.
Family
Guru's household is as expansive as his wisdom. He married three times: Shubha, his eldest wife, bore him seven daughters; Mamta, his third wife, bore him the sages Kach and Bharadwaja; and Tara, his second wife, is remembered above all for the episode in which Chandra abducted her, resulting in the birth of Budha (Mercury) - a child Brihaspati chose not to reject despite the scandal, in keeping with his own reputation for magnanimity. His brothers, Samvarta and Utthya, were also renowned sages in their own right.
Father: Sage Angira
Mother: Surupa
Wives: Shubha, Tara, and Mamta
Notable children: Seven daughters by Shubha; the sages Kach and Bharadwaja by Mamta; Budha (Mercury) born of Tara's union with Chandra
Brothers: Samvarta and Utthya
Iconography
Guru is depicted with a golden complexion, seated upon a lotus, with four arms holding a golden staff, a lotus, and a rudraksha rosary, his fourth hand raised in blessing, dressed in yellow robes with gold ornaments. His chariot, also made of gold, is drawn by eight yellow horses, befitting his role as the most radiant and benevolent teacher among the grahas.
In Vedic astrology, Guru rules Sagittarius and Pisces, is exalted in Cancer and debilitated in Capricorn, and is considered the greatest benefic of the Navagrahas; his gemstone is yellow sapphire, his colour yellow, and Thursday is sacred to him.
Quick Facts
Rashis Ruled
Exaltation & Debilitation
Planetary Relations
Friends
Enemies
Neutral
Significance
It governs higher education, ethics, wealth, children, marriage guidance, and overall grace in life.
Characteristics
Strong Jupiter brings wisdom, fairness, and optimism; weak Jupiter may cause poor judgment, excess, or delayed blessings.
Deity & Beej Mantra
Brihaspati / Vishnu
ॐ ग्रां ग्रीं ग्रौं सः गुरवे नमः
Effects
A strong Jupiter supports prosperity, good counsel, family growth, and spiritual maturity. Affliction can cause financial strain, delayed marriage, or confused values.
Remedies
Worship on Thursdays, respect teachers and elders, donate yellow items, and wear yellow sapphire after guidance.
Vedic Astrology
Astrological Elements
Vedic astrology counts five elements, called the Pancha Mahabhuta. Every zodiac sign belongs to fire, earth, air, or water, while Akasha is the space that holds them all.
Element
Fire
Fire signs include Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. People connected to this element are often energetic, confident, and action-oriented. They enjoy taking initiative, inspiring others, and moving ahead with passion. Their direct nature is a strength, though they may sometimes act in haste.
Element
Earth
Earth signs include Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. They are known for being practical, dependable, and steady in their approach. These people usually value security, hard work, and real results. They may appear reserved at first, but they are often deeply caring and loyal.
Element
Air
Air signs include Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. They are thoughtful, curious, and good at communication. These people enjoy ideas, conversations, and learning new things. They like variety and freedom, though they may sometimes struggle to stay grounded or make quick final decisions.
Element
Water
Water signs include Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. They are sensitive, intuitive, and strongly guided by feelings. These people care deeply about relationships and often understand emotions without many words. Their compassion is a gift, though they may need time to protect their own emotional balance.
Element
Ether
Akasha (Ether) is the space in which the other four elements exist. No rashi belongs to Akasha, as the twelve rashis are shared among fire, earth, air, and water. It is associated with sound, openness, wisdom, and expansion. In Parashari astrology, Guru (Jupiter) is linked with Akasha.