As planets move through the zodiac, they express different qualities and form specific relationships with one another—either through conjunctions or aspects. By nature, planets are classified as benefic (gentle) or malefic (harsh or harmful).

Benefic planets include:

Jupiter

Venus

The waxing Moon (Shukla Paksha)

Mercury (only when unafflicted or joined with a benefic)

Malefic planets include:

Saturn

Mars

The Sun

The waning Moon (Krishna Paksha)

Mercury (when joined with a malefic)