Home › Learn Astrology › Planets
Moon in Astrology Explained
Lesson 12 of 100 · Planets
Log in or join free to track your progress through the course.
The Moon, called Chandra in Vedic astrology, is second only to the Sun in importance and in many ways is the most personal point in your chart. It rules the mind, emotions, and your inner world, and it signifies the mother. This short primer covers what the Moon means, where it is strong or weak, and the key facts to remember. AstroAsk has a full in-depth guide on the Moon linked from this page, so use this as a quick orientation, then check yourself with the two quizzes below.
This topic has a full, in-depth guide on AstroAsk. Read it, then come back to take the test.
Read the full guide →What the Moon Signifies
The Moon governs the mind (manas), emotions, moods, and your instinctive responses. Because Vedic astrology places huge weight on the mind, the Moon is treated as one of the most important factors in a chart, and your Moon sign is often used as a primary reference point alongside the rising sign.
In the family the Moon signifies the mother and early nurturing. In the wider world it rules the general public, the masses, water, and anything fluid or changeable. A strong Moon tends to give emotional stability, a calm mind, and easy connection with others. A weak Moon can show as anxiety, mood swings, or emotional insecurity.
Strength, Waxing, Day, and Gem
The Moon is exalted in Taurus, where it feels secure and steady, and debilitated in Scorpio, the opposite sign, where it is most uneasy. It rules its own sign of Cancer. Importantly, the Moon’s strength also depends on its phase: a waxing Moon (growing toward full) is considered benefic, while a thin waning or new Moon is weak and treated as more malefic.
The Moon rules Monday and is linked with the colour white and the metal silver. Its gemstone is the pearl, traditionally worn to calm and strengthen the mind. Any gemstone should be recommended by a qualified astrologer after reviewing the whole chart, not chosen from a single placement.
Key takeaways
- The Moon (Chandra) signifies the mind, emotions, the mother, and the general public.
- It is exalted in Taurus, debilitated in Scorpio, and rules its own sign Cancer.
- A waxing (growing) Moon is benefic; a thin waning or new Moon is weak.
- The Moon rules Monday and its gemstone is the pearl.
Knowledge check
6 quick questions on this lesson. Answer all, then submit to see your score and explanations.