Past Life (Purva Janma)
In Vedic astrology, Purva Janma (past life) analysis centres on the Rahu-Ketu axisโ the lunar nodes that serve as the karmic bridge between incarnations. Rahu represents the soul's uncharted territory in this life, while Ketu embodies the mastery and patterns carried from previous births.
The houses, signs, and Nakshatras occupied by Rahu and Ketu reveal what the soul has experienced before and what it must learn now. Understanding this axis provides profound insight into your deepest motivations, fears, and spiritual direction.
Rahu-Ketu Axis: The Gateway to Past Lives
Rahu (North Node) represents the soul's unexplored desires in this life โ lessons carried over from past incarnations. Ketu (South Node) signifies the comfort zone of past-life skills and karmic baggage. Their house placement reveals the domain of life where karmic lessons are most intense.
Rahu in the 1st House
Souls with Rahu in the Ascendant were spiritually advanced in past lives (Ketu in 7th). They struggle with self-identity, relationships, and ego in this life, learning to balance personal ambition with partnership.
Ketu in the 5th House
This placement indicates past-life mastery of creative expression, children, and speculative knowledge. The current life challenges the native to move beyond intellectual detachment and engage with emotional investment.
Rahu-Ketu in Trikonas
When Rahu or Ketu occupies a trikona (1st, 5th, 9th), the karmic journey is strongly tied to dharma, creativity, and spiritual growth. The axis highlights the balance between material pursuit and spiritual evolution.