Astronomically, Rahu and Ketu denote the two points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they move on the celestial sphere. Therefore, Rahu and Ketu are respectively called the north and the south lunar nodes. The fact that Eclipses occur when Sun and Moon are at one of these points gives rise to the myth of the swallowing of the Sun.
Rahu is fisher-man by caste, a female, tamsic in nature, a Mlechchha, i.e., of wicked disposition, moves in Apasavya (right side or opposite) direction, is courageous, malefic, inhabits mountains and forests, and causes epilepsy, pox, worms, suicide, and leprosy. It is lord of South-West direction. It resides in corners of the houses. It is the indicator of air, snake, sleeping, mouth, grandfather, and salvation. Its stone is black or brown Zircon or Gomed.

Rahu exerts formidable influence on a man’s destiny. The image of a demon with a very big and protruding head-the head being completely severed from the rest of the body-symbolizes Rahu’s insatiable lust for life and endless desires that are unlikely to materialize. The Dragon’s head is dark and shadowy in color and molests the two vital luminaries’ viz., Sun and Moon.

Rahu is an accelerator and a catalyst. It magnifies the noble qualities of a house provided, of course, that it is strong and free from blemishes, in order to obtain the optimum benefits from such a placement. Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Libra, Capricorn and Aquarius are considered favorable for the placement of Rahu. Its favorable relationship with Mercury or Venus in the natal chart is also a positive factor. Its placement in an angle undoubtedly accentuates its positive influence on the native. Saturn usually interferes with its intrinsic ability to magnify the result of the house where it is located.

Rahu is malefic, very similar to Saturn. If a planet by virtue of its position and lordship is capable of producing good results, Rahu involved with a close relationship with that of particular planet would magnify beneficial results in important sectors such as politics and public life. Rahu generally gives good results if placed in the third, sixth, tenth or eleventh angles.

This is the point of moon’s dissension in the south. Since it represents construction and isolation, it has a Saturn connotation. Hence it represents misfortune emanating from current social trends and patterns. Its conjunction with sun and moon is considered highly malefic in both Indian and Western astrology.

RAHU IN DIFFERENT HOUSE FROM THE MOON

Vedic astrology mentions specific results for placement of planets in relation to the moon. Here is the brief account of the results of Rahu when located in-
1st, 10th or 9th House: King; remains a wealthy man in old age.
6th or 12th House: King or minister; wealthy.
4th or 7th House: Bad for parents; ever unhappy.
2nd or 11th House: No comfort despite health and fame.
5th House: Death by drowning; no comforts.

RAHU IN DIFFERENT SIGNS

Rahu is particularly favorable in Cancer, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Scorpio.
Rahu owns Aquarius or Virgo according to some astrologer and is exalted in Taurus.It gets debilitated in Scorpio. Its Mooltrikona sign is Gemini.

In the above mentioned signs, Rahu gives favorable results like increase in wealth, help from friends and the ruler, varied physical comforts, religious inclinations, new house and clothes and foreign travels with honors.