I recently read an article from a well-known Western Astrologer about his upcoming webinar on Mars. He stated how unfortunate it is that the planet Mars gets labeled as a ‘malefic’. Besides the obvious punch to Vedic Astrology (the system known for calling planets malefics and benefics), he takes the message out of context and leaves readers misinformed.

Planets are called malefic or benefic in Vedic Astrology based on their so-called ‘natural’ tendency. For example, yes, Mars is a ‘natural malefic’ because its energy often creates anger, tension, conflict, even violence. It’s truly malefic when so many people on this planet still operate from Mars’ lower energy and motivation. But the best in Mars (for any of us who can reach its heights and live by it) wants to produce, build, create, and defend its highest truth. A wise and mature Mars gives us the ability, the courage to pursue our spiritual goals, to forge ahead along our own path and build that inner temple of light and love, to defend and protect our Soul’s aspirations while creating good in our human life and showing restraint and control of our emotional nature.

In Vedic Astrology, house rulership also determines if the planets will function in their natural states (malefic or benefic) or if they’ll take on temporary states opposite their natural tendency. For example, the Moon is a natural benefic, showing how we express our emotions, our longing to love and be loved, and ultimately manifesting as unconditional motherly Divine Love that exceeds all personal love. The Moon rules the 6th House in an Aquarius Rising chart, making the Moon a functioning malefic for Aquarius folks since the 6th House is a Dushthana and Upachaya (a difficult house). Aquarians will typically, therefore, have tension, conflict, or struggles around expressing their feelings and with unconditional love, until they learn that hard work and service to others (6th House) can be a source or path that can lead them to experiencing or being a channel for Divine Love.

In short, the terms malefic and benefic are guide posts steering our chart interpretation. The word ‘malefic’ is not used to condemn a planet or a person, but to define its state and mode of expression based on the birth chart. Malefic planets are difficult for certain things (bringing obstruction, suffering, health issues) but they are actually good and necessary for other things (longevity, commitment, determination, old age, fighting for what you believe in.) Likewise, ‘benefic’ planets are good for certain things (happiness, contentment, prosperity) but they, too, can be difficult for other things (addiction, overindulgence, emotional and mental disorders). It all depends on what is happening with the overall chart. That’s why it’s so important not to listen to or read snippets of information that are taken out of context without delving into the topic in more depth, especially while you’re learning the art and science of astrology,