Saturn is considered to be naturally malefic planet in astrology. Now the point is how true is this statement. As it has been observed by some noted astrologers, the planet do seem to bring in luck but in certain situations can heap lot of benefits on the person. In most of the cases, its impact is negative.
Saturn is one of the beautiful planet of our solar world. Saturn is considered to be a malefic planet. Sorrow, Pain, Ailments, Death,Journey, Age, Slavery, Sculpture, Arms and Detachment are signified by Saturn.
Saturn is called Yama because it is the chief governor of longevity. Saturn is also called St. Peter holding the keys of both Heaven and Hell. It rules over hard and laborious work as well as over responsible positions in life. Saturn is a planet of delay. Saturn is barren, binding,cold, constant, dry, defensive, hard, nervous and secretive planet.
Saturn Signs help us mature. It takes almost 30 years for Saturn to return to the place it was when you were born? is it any wonder there is a big difference in those under 30 and those over that age? Later it's in opposition to our natal Saturn at just about the time the proverbial middle age crisis sets in. This is the age where decisions are made that can result in a vibrant, active older life or one of disappointment and depression.
General Characteristics and Aspects
How did the ancients describe the characteristics of awesome Saturn? It is said his physical frame is lean, tall and hairy with long nails and sharp eyes. He is eunuch. His element is the wind (vayu). He is lord of the 36th year in horoscopy though in hoary astrology his affect is perceived after one year. He rules over the 10th and 11th signs of the zodiac, known as Makara(Capricorn) and Kumbha (Aquarius). His mula trikona (his best position in his own signs) is Aquarius up to 20°. He is exalted in Libra and at 20° there becomes highly exalted. Saturn is debilitated in Aries and at 20° there he is extremely weak.
If the planet Saturn is in conjunction with planet Rahu, then it forms a bad yoga known as "Shani Rahu Shrapit Dosha" which adversely affects almost all the areas of life and the person's life is full of hardships. Similarly, if the planet Saturn isin conjunction with planet Moon, then it forms another bad yoga known as “Shani Chandra Vish Yoga ". Such a person is very intelligent, yet at times hecan fall prey to extreme negativity and depression. In all such cases, a Shani Puja can be extremely beneficial.
A person is said to be under the major affliction of Saturn known as "Saturn Sade Sati" when the planet Saturn is transiting through the 12th, 1st and 2nd house from the Natal Chart Moon, each transit being of approximately two and a half years. A person has to undergo all kinds of hardships during this period including stress, anxiety, tensions, loss of mental peace as well as financial losses. These problems are more profound if the planet Saturn is malefic in the horoscope. Similarly, a person is said to be under the minor affliction of Saturn known as "Small Panoti" when the planet Saturn is transiting through the 4th or 8th house from his Natal Chart Moon. The adverse effects of Small Panoti are also similar to Saturn Sade Sati. In both these afflictions also, a Shani Puja can give an immense relief by the blessings of Lord Saturn.
Benefic Saturn
Saturn, when favorable functionally, is karaka (indicator) for longevity, justice, democratic ideals, humanitarianism, sympathy,philosophical truths, all--round prosperity, position,careful speech, sense of duty towards man and God, discipline, meditation, prudence,asceticism, patience, self--control, economy, industry,diplomacy, truth, concentration and health.
A powerful Saturn in any horoscope stands for wealth, fame longevity and leadership qualities. Powerful Saturn in his period gives the native great courage to do hard and difficult jobs and gives him energy and fortitude to meet the arduous struggles of life. He is well known among donors,is a man of principle, a labor leader who may earn much in business. His business commodities are those of interest to the general masses or labor class.
Malefic Saturn
Weak and badly placed Saturn gives fear of imprisonment,lack of courage, lethargy, heavy losses in business, missed opportunities by lack of vigilance, scandal, notoriety, and debauchery resulting in a bad name.
The transit of Saturn over planets, particularly the planets whose cycles are presently running, delays the results likely to be exhibited by them, sometimes nearly beyond toleration. The transit of malefic (the Sun,Mars, Rahu and Ketu) over natal Saturn is decidedly a time of great suffering,if it is his sub cycle. It would be erroneous to judge transits without reference to the dasa (planetary cycle) and bhukti (sub cycle) in operation.
Metals and gems
Precious gems/ metals represented by Saturn are Blue sapphire, Amethyst, iron, lead, steel and antimony. Native whose Ascendant Lord is Saturn can wear the Ring (in middle finger) or Pendant of Blue Sapphire or Amethyst in Silver / Gold in the constellation of Saturn.