CANCER

CANCER

THE FOURTH SIGN OF THE ZODIAC
The Sign of the Protector

Symbol: The Crab

Ruler: Moon

Exaltation: Jupiter

Debilitation: Mars

Baadhaka: Taurus

Alphabets: Hee,Hoo,He,Ho,Da,Dee,Doo,De,Do

Parts of the body: Breast, Chest and stomach, Serum of blood

Glyph/Picture: It also a picture of the human breast. Symbolically it also signifies two circles of the sun connected to two crescent moons. The moons represent cancer’s desire to store memories and possessions. The circles tied to the moon represent force and energy expressed through emotions and imagination.

Classification: Cardinal, Movable, Water, Negative, Of long Ascension, Rising by the hind part, Even, Feminine, Fruitful.

Principal: Domesticity, Careful – “I feel”

Opposite Sign: Capricorn - is the sign of reputation and public standing.

Qualities: Cold, Phlegmatic, Maternal, Destructive, feminine, fruitful, moist, mute, negative, tropical, watery.


CANCER (Karkatakam) (90°00' - 120°00')

Cancer, known as Karkatakam in Sanskrit, signifies the completion of the externalization of the Divine Spark's journey from pure subjective existence, starting in Aries. This stage sets the limits for egoic expansion and introduces the possibilities of experiencing pure wisdom. Cancer presents extremes, from egoic possibilities to material limitations, marking the boundaries restricting human consciousness.

Symbolized by the crab, Cancer represents the cosmic matrix where emerging egos live. The crab's ten feet correspond to human senses and action organs, reflecting experiences conditioned by physical and mental limits. The regular sloughing of its shell signifies rejuvenation, mirroring the continuity of consciousness amid physical changes—similar to the human cycle of renewal through various births.

Ruled by the Moon, Cancer lays down limits for individual and collective growth. The Moon reflects solar radiance, modulating it for life's needs. Cancer represents the cosmic matrix providing vast possibilities for egoic experiences and unfoldment within the constraints set by nature and karma.

Jupiter's exaltation in Cancer signifies the suitable influence for radical psychological transmutation. In contrast, Mars' debilitation emphasizes the need for quietude and peace at this stage, discouraging further material agitation. The association of the Sun (Surya) and the Moon amplifies creativity and spiritual inspiration, guiding egos toward merging with the Original Source.

The last quarter of Punarvasu extending into Cancer intensifies the lunar impact. Egos, now equipped with sharpened intellect and rationality, aim to re-enact spiritual nobility despite physical and karmic limitations. This stage enhances the influence of each planet, shaping the egos as they evolve along specific streams of consciousness. Awareness of their original self begins to emerge, albeit instinctively.