Why are combust planets considered weak in astrology and how do they influence life?
By Pt. Sanjeev Sharma
A detailed explanation of combust planets in Vedic astrology, their auspicious and inauspicious results and spiritual meaning
Table of Contents
In Vedic astrology, the nine planets hold immense significance. The twelve zodiac signs and twenty-seven nakshatras form the framework of life and planetary movement through them governs human destiny. Each planet remains in a sign for a specific duration: the Moon for about two and a quarter days, the Sun and Venus for about thirty days, Mars for forty days, Jupiter for almost a year, Saturn for two and a half years and Rahu and Ketu for eighteen months each.
For a complete horoscope interpretation, astrologers first examine planetary strength and placement, then their aspects, ownership and relationships. Along with these, two factors play a decisive role - combustion and retrogression. Without understanding these, an analysis remains incomplete.
What is combustion and when does it occur?
When a planet comes too close to the Sun, the brilliance of the Sun dims its radiance, making it lose independence. This state is called combustion. It is like placing a lamp next to a blazing flame, where the smaller light becomes invisible.
As per Surya Siddhanta and classical texts, combustion limits are:
| Planet | Distance from Sun for combustion |
|---|---|
| Moon | Within 12 degrees |
| Mars | Within 17 degrees |
| Mercury | Within 14 degrees (12 if retrograde) |
| Jupiter | Within 11 degrees |
| Venus | Within 10 degrees (8 if retrograde) |
| Saturn | Within 15 degrees |
Additionally, Rahu eclipses the Sun and Ketu eclipses the Moon. Western astrology accepts a broader limit but the Vedic approach is considered more logical as it accounts for planetary differences.
Do combust planets always give negative results?
Classical scriptures highlight that combust planets lose much of their auspicious power.
- Phaladeepika states that exalted planets deliver full results but when combust they act like debilitated ones.
- Parashara mentions that if the ninth lord is debilitated or combust, poverty and hardships may follow.
- Saturn in combustion can lead to job changes, imprisonment, injuries, family suffering or health issues.
- Varahamihira compared combust planets to snakes rendered motionless through mantra - appearing alive but powerless.
Thus combust planets lose their positive impact and malefic planets when combust may trouble even more.
Are all planets equally affected by combustion?
No, the effect is not the same for every planet.
- Mercury retains its influence due to Budh-Aditya Yoga even when combust.
- A planet within 5 degrees of the Sun is considered fully burnt.
- Within 10 degrees, it is partially combust.
- Beyond 15 degrees, combustion does not apply.
Therefore combustion weakens a planet, yet its outcome also depends on its house, sign and nakshatra.
What is the spiritual meaning of combustion?
The Sun signifies soul and righteousness. Combustion is not only weakness but also purification. Just as gold becomes pure after fire, planets nearing the Sun undergo purification of the soul.
- Combust Jupiter leads the native towards spiritual growth.
- Combust Saturn burns past karmas and compels service to elders and father.
Hence combustion must also be seen as a karmic refinement process.
Does combustion affect relationships and marriage?
Yes. Venus when combust often delays marriage. It can bring tension in love life, cause extramarital attractions or emotional detachment. Mars and Mercury combust reflect in ego and intellect, often making natives more prideful and self-centered in expression.
What happens when Mercury is both combust and retrograde?
Retrograde planets do not lose their rays. therefore a retrograde Mercury remains powerful even when combust. This sustains the influence of Budh-Aditya Yoga, ensuring the native remains intelligent and sharp-minded.
Views of classical and modern scholars
- Kalidasa stated that combustion of planets except Venus and Saturn may shorten life.
- Ptolemy held that rising planets intensify events while combust planets weaken them.
- Western astrologers Alfred Pearce and William Lilly also emphasized that combustion makes planets powerless.
Meaning of combust planets in life
Combustion is not merely weakness but a stage of life where struggle and refinement shape maturity. It is an inner trial by fire that molds character, bringing wisdom and strength through challenges. Rather than fearing it, combustion should be seen as a stage of transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do all planets lose strength when combust?
No, Mercury retains its influence even in combustion.
2. What is the major effect of combust Venus?
It delays marriage and brings stress in relationships.
3. Why is combustion seen as spiritual purification?
Because it refines the soul just as fire purifies gold.
4. Does retrograde Mercury still give results when combust?
Yes, retrograde Mercury remains powerful and sustains Budh-Aditya Yoga.
5. Is the dasha of combust planets always harmful?
Mostly it brings challenges, yet it also offers spiritual growth.
