Yes, Ketu is widely considered to be a demon, or more precisely, one half of an immortal demonic entity within the framework of Hindu mythology and Vedic astrology.
Ketu's nature is rooted in an ancient legend concerning a powerful being named Svarbhanu. This asura (a class of beings often translated as demon) attempted to consume the divine nectar of immortality (Amrita) alongside the gods. Discovered by the gods Surya (the Sun) and Chandra (the Moon), Svarbhanu's deception was revealed to Lord Vishnu. Vishnu, in response, swiftly beheaded Svarbhanu with his Sudarshan Chakra before the Amrita could fully pass through his throat. However, because Svarbhanu had already ingested a small portion, his head and body became immortal, existing separately.
The Origin of Rahu and Ketu
The beheaded parts of Svarbhanu transformed into two distinct entities, known as Rahu and Ketu:
- Rahu: The disembodied head of Svarbhanu.
- Ketu: The headless body of Svarbhanu.
Thus, Ketu is understood as the immortal torso of this original demon, Svarbhanu, and is often personified as a deity in its own right, despite its demonic origin.
Ketu's Significance in Vedic Astrology
In Vedic astrology, Ketu, along with Rahu, holds significant importance. They are not physical planets but are regarded as shadowy nodes or points of intersection in the moon's orbital path around the Earth. These points are crucial in astrological calculations due to their powerful influence.
Key astrological characteristics related to Ketu (and Rahu) include:
- Orbital Cycle: Both Rahu and Ketu have an 18-year orbital cycle, meaning it takes 18 years for them to complete a full circuit through the zodiac.
- Opposing Positions: They are always positioned 180 degrees from each other in any astrological chart, forming a crucial axis. When one is in a particular sign, the other will always be exactly opposite.
- Karmic Influencers: In astrology, Ketu is often associated with detachment, liberation, spirituality, past life karma, and sudden, unexpected events. While its origins are demonic, its influence can lead to profound spiritual insights and breaking free from material attachments.
Therefore, while Ketu originates from a demon, its representation and influence extend beyond a simple classification, embodying complex spiritual and karmic implications in astrological practices.
