The life-giving power of the sun is not only at the center of our solar system – the inner Sun is the essence of who we are. It is the light within us.
In an astrological chart the Sun represents identity, vitality, power, authority, ego and the true self.
Atmakaraka translates as indicator of the Soul and represents the soul’s desire and purpose during this incarnation. The astrological Sun is a natural atmakaraka and can also be the movable (individual) atmakaraka when it is the planet in the highest degree in the birth chart.
The deepest spiritual lesson for us all is to transcend the attachments of the ego and to experience oneness with the soul.
The Sun as atmakaraka prompts us to develop Self-awareness.
The Sun represents our identity and Self-inquiry is a powerful tool for turning ego identifications into true Self-awareness.
Meditation is one of the most effective tools for Self-inquiry.
A helpful exercise is to turn your attention to the Christ center during meditation and ask: “Who am I? What am I?” The silence, and each breath can help you to detach from the ego so that you can feel the deeper layers of your being.
In your daily life, you can also calmly observe your thoughts, feelings and actions and gradually detach from ego consciousness.
Self-confidence and self-acceptance are natural qualities of the Sun.
The deity for the Sun is Lord Surya. Lord Surya is a symbol for light, intelligence and power.
The Sun simply is: I am what I am. The Sun is the soul; aware of itself, its light and its power.
We can all understand the Sun’s vitally important role, especially in the middle of the day when he is the strongest. But if we are in the desert the sun’s heat is scorching. Just as heat can cause drought or cause things to wilt, melt or burn, abuse of the Sun’s power is harmful and destructive.
A malefic astrological Sun can express selfishness, arrogance and narcissism.
The atmakaraka Sun needs to develop humility. It is just as important to respect the Self in others as it is to respect our own Self.
“Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thou shalt love thyself.” –The Bible, Matthew 22:39
On the other hand, an afflicted astrological Sun can also experience a sense of powerlessness.
How do we understand our self-worth? An afflicted astrological Sun can give low vitality or a victim consciousness. It can also bring issues with low self-esteem, confusion and a lack of direction.
Self-healing, self-honoring and self-discovery are ways to develop one’s inner power. Exercise and a good diet increase energy and vitality.
Acknowledge your true strength. The Sun has will power, creativity and independence.
Spiritual studies are powerful tools for understanding the Self.
The Yoga Sutras are a wonderful tool for Self-study. The great yoga master Patanjali (c. 200 BC), describes the observance of Self-study in The Yoga Sutras. Patanjali says: “Study thy Self, discover the divine.”
The Bhagavad Gita also gives us invaluable insights into our own spiritual journey by describing the allegorical battle between the ego and the soul. The yogi fights the battle for soul liberation under the guidance of his Guru, Lord Krishna.
The study of astrology also offers insight into the interconnected universe. It helps us to realize that the outer cosmos can be seen within. Within ourselves is the whole universe of truth that we are seeking.
The sun's color is bright and transparent red. This color expresses vitality, health, power, authority, and life force. Wear red to attract the Sun’s energy.
Hot, spicy aromas like ginger, cinnamon, henna, camphor, and sage increase the sun's energy.
Wearing a gemstone for the Sun is a powerful way to work with and strengthen the Sun’s energy. Ruby is the primary gemstone, and red spinel is also excellent. Other stones for the Sun are rubellite tourmaline, red spessartite, and garnet.
See our collection of Sun gemstones and jewelry here.
Developing Self-awareness ultimately leads to the highest expression of the Sun: Self-Realization and enlightenment.
“There was a devotee who was sitting before an image of his guru, chanting and tossing flowers onto it as an expression of his devotion. His concentration became so deep that, all at once, he beheld the whole universe contained within his consciousness.
‘Ah!’ he cried, ‘I have been putting flowers on another’s image, but now I see that I, untouched by this body, am the sustainer of the universe. I bow to my Self!’ And he began throwing the flowers onto his own head.”
–Paramhansa Yogananda, in “The Essence of Self-Realization” by Swami Kriyananda