27 Moons Project: Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra
...the key to understanding your mind and the mind of others
In Vedic astrology, the moon is divided into 27 divisions called Nakshatra. The moon is our mind and therefore how we filter all thoughts, impressions and experiences. Knowing our Moon Nakshatra and the Nakshatras of others is key to understanding and appreciating how we think and approach the world. If you don’t know your Nakshatra, you can find out what it is here.
Happy Moon Monday!
For the next half a year, I’ll be writing a post about the current Nakshatra of the moon every Monday, the day naturally ruled by the moon.
If you don’t know what Nakshatra are, check out this post first.
For now, let’s dive into the Nakshatra the moon is currently in this lovely Monday.
This Monday’s Nakshatra: Uttaraphalguni
Uttaraphalguni is the twelfth Nakshatra in the Vedic lunar zodiac, spanning from 26°40' Leo to 10°00' Virgo, and is lorded by the Sun. It is intricately tied to its preceding Nakshatra, Purvaphalguni, forming a complementary pair (more on this later).
The term "Uttaraphalguni" can be translated as "The Latter Reddish One."
In Sanskrit transliteration, Uttaraphalguni is written as Uttaraphālgunī, and is pronounced as "Oo-ta-ra-phal-goo-nee" in English. This Nakshatra is associated with two stars, Denebola and Regulus, symbolizing the dual nature of its influence.
Let's explore the characteristics of Uttaraphalguni by delving into its symbols, deity, and general keywords to gain insights into the mindset of individuals with their moon in this Nakshatra.
Symbols
Each Nakshatra has several symbols that can help you visualize their deeper meaning.
To understand the symbols of Uttaraphalguni, its best to bring Purvaphalguni into the mix (you can read about this Nakshatra here).
Purvaphalguni symbolizes the front legs of a bed or the front part of a hammock, while Uttaraphalguni symbolizes the back legs of a bed or the back part of a hammock. Purvaphalguni is the “earlier fig tree,” while Uttaraphalguni is the “later fig tree.” Purvaphalguni is the start of a holiday by the sea, while Uttaraphalguni is the last phase when, relaxed and happy, you start packing your bags, ready to head back home.
Both of these Nakshatras are social, happy, easygoing and relationship-oriented. However, while Purvaphalguni seeks pleasure and romance, Uttaraphalguni tends to be more family-oriented. Purvaphalguni is that first flush of a thrilling love affair, while Uttaraphalguni is like a happy, committed relationship and the wealth is brings, either monetary or in the form of progeny.
The fig has borne fruit, so to speak.
Ruling deity
When it comes to Nakshatras, knowing the ruling deity gets you closer to understanding their inner nature than the sign they are in.
The ruling deity for Uttaraphalguni is Aryama. A benevolent god, Aryama is the guardian of agreements, alliances, and sacred contracts. Aryama's presence is invoked during rituals, especially those related to marriages, where the sanctity of vows and commitments is emphasized.
As one of the Adityas (solar deities), Aryama is associated with the Sun, symbolizing the illuminating and guiding force that brings clarity to moral paths. As a deity connected to social harmony, he plays a role in fostering cohesion and ethical conduct within communities.
Uttaraphalguni natives share these qualities.
These are happy-go-lucky family people, who often enjoy playing the matchmaker for their friends. This Nakshatra was probably originally ruled by Bhaga, the god of wealth and happiness. These people often a tendency to “marry well,” gaining prosperity through their spouse.
Skills and interests
These people often have a good head for business and finance or growing wealth. Their pleasant, outgoing personality make them popular with others. These are people who like to mingle and mix at a party, although they may prefer to have more refined people among their closer circle of friends.
These are people who likely love to say “I do.” They value marriage and a happy, loving family life is vital for them to stay focused and achieve success. In fact, if someone has their natal moon in Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra, but does not have a family or a wide circle of friends, they can become depressed and lack motivation.
Uttaraphalguni Nakshatra natives are often ambitious. Paired with their self-confidence and friendly demeanor, they often are very good at gaining the support of others, including those in power.
Since they are focused on marital happiness for both themselves and others, they would make an ideal matchmaker, couple’s therapist or wedding planner.
Strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
relationship and family-oriented
pleasant, happy disposition
loves to love
popular and outgoing
enjoys life and comfort
highly principled and reliable
generous and kind
strong libido
wealthy, loves luxury
Weaknesses
sometimes overly materialistic/focused on luxury
can be snobbish and elitist
may give too much
can be arrogant and self-centered
restless and moody
bossy and stubborn
may be overly promiscuous
Famous people with their moon in Uttaraphalguni
Sean Connery
Jack Nicholson
Agatha Christie
Alexander Graham Bell
Deepak Chopra
J.K. Rowling
Gordon Ramsay
Charles Bukowski (a bit of an odd one, but some tough stuff is going on with this moon)