Vedic Astrology · Glossary
Yogakaraka
योगकारक
The most beneficial planet for a given ascendant — one that owns both a trikona (1st, 5th, 9th) and a kendra (1st, 4th, 7th, 10th) house simultaneously.
Yogakaraka is the planet that simultaneously rules both a kendra (angular) house (1st, 4th, 7th, or 10th) and a trikona (trinal) house (1st, 5th, or 9th) in a chart. Since trikona lords bring prosperity and kendra lords bring manifestation, a single planet that is lord of both creates especially auspicious results — it is called the Yogakaraka, or 'yoga-maker,' for that ascendant. The Yogakaraka is the single most powerful planet for wealth, career success, and overall fortune for that rising sign. Not every ascendant has a natural Yogakaraka — some ascendants have planets that rule only kendras or only trikonas, not both. The classic Yogakarakas are: Saturn for Taurus and Libra ascendants (rules both a kendra and a trikona), Venus for Capricorn and Aquarius ascendants (same principle), Mars for Cancer and Leo ascendants. For Aries and Scorpio ascendants, Saturn rules two kendras (not a trikona), so it doesn't qualify.
Examples
- ◆Saturn is the Yogakaraka for Taurus rising (rules 9th trikona and 10th kendra — both) — Saturn mahadasha brings career peak
- ◆Venus is the Yogakaraka for Capricorn rising (rules 5th trikona and 10th kendra) — strengthening Venus is the primary remedy
- ◆Mars is the Yogakaraka for Cancer rising (rules 5th trikona and 10th kendra) — a strong Mars gives exceptional career and children
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Yogakaraka in astrology?
Yogakaraka is the planet that simultaneously rules a kendra (1st/4th/7th/10th) AND a trikona (1st/5th/9th) house for a given ascendant. It is considered the most benefic planet for that rising sign — its strength, placement, and dasha period are the most significant factors for overall prosperity. Classic Yogakarakas include Saturn for Taurus/Libra ascendants, Venus for Capricorn/Aquarius, and Mars for Cancer/Leo.
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