More about Ted Kennedy

Let's turn back to Kennedy's fourth house for a moment. Exalted Venus is creating a yoga, but is also afflicted by Rahu and Saturn. The fourth is traditionally responsible for several very important matters: the heart, mother, home, vehicles, etc. Why were they too, not destroyed? The answer tells us a bit about Indian astrology: lordships matter more than occupancy. Venus is indeed damaged by its association with Rahu and Saturn. But the fourth house is greatly enhanced by its presence. The lord of the 4th is exalted Jupiter in the 8th, and from this difficult house, again sees its own 4th house.

Saturn does see the house, but the 4th's relation to two exalted benefics meant a number of things: first, Rose Kennedy. Ted had that rarest of experiences: the joy of sharing life with a mother who was very dear to him, until he was well into his 70's.

Singular facts should show up in a chart. It is one of those fascinating things about astrology that the extraordinarily long life of his mother as well as the tragic deaths of his siblings, are symbolized in part by the exact same placement: exalted Venus in the 4th. Again, Venus' affliction as lord of the 11th resulted in the deaths.

Yes, there are caveats. Saturn's aspect on the house and its lord caused their problems: a delay in his education, great suffering to his mother. And indeed, even his great scandals (Saturn) would be car (4th), women (Venus) and water (Pisces) related. But Venus' natural beneficence coupled with an exalted Jupiter were otherwise hugely positive for 4th house matters. He always commanded a vehicle, had large and comfortable dwellings, loved to sail (4th sign is Pisces), and was loved by his relations. And he would ultimately finish not only his Harvard degree but a law degree at Virginia.

Again, there is so much more say about this chart. We may return to it in time.