The fifteenth nakshatra is called Swati, which resides entirely with the sign of Libra, the scales. It is primarily located near the golden star Arcturus, the brightest single star in the constellation Bootis. Swati means “the sword” and reflects a strong desire for independence. A sweet spoken, virtuous and compassionate nature is cultivated here. Called the “self-going” star, it is pictured as a young single shoot blown by the wind. Swati people have an ability to “bend with the wind” in order to survive the forces ofchange which they may encounter. The deity that rules Swati is Vayu, the demigod ofwind, air, breath, and prana. Vayu is the purifier and cleanser that represents the movement of pranayama that pervades the universe and sustains life. It gives the power to scatter like the wind (pradhvamsa shakti).’ A restless and adventurous nature can result. Swati is ruled by Rahu, an airy planet, and is located in the air sign of Libra. Saturn, a vata planet, is exalted here. Swati reflects disciplined energy and the powers of communication to influence others. The great talk show host Johnny Carson has his Sun, Mercury and Lagna in Swati. These people are often business oriented and clever in trade and commerce. Swati people are very eager to learn and can show intense passion toward life. This asterism’s symbol is coral, which has strong intuitive and psychic properties. Swati also translates as “the priest” and its natives are usually learned in theology. They are often modest, compassionate, virtuous and communicate with sweetness. Swati’s nature is quite self-controlled and emphasizes the principles ofdharma or rightaction. Swati people are usually generous and charitable to people doing religious work. Swati is a Deva nakshatra with the animal symbol being a male buffalo. In addition, a female deity that is also associated with this asterism isSaraswati, the goddess oflearning. The shadow side oTSwati is self-centeredness with the primary objective being personal gain. A divine discontent and restless spirit may be experienced. Swati causes things to move and scatter. This can be destructive energy unless the individual learns how to use his or her power to remove negativity in a constructive way. Thus, Swati people may exhibit both healing as well as destructive tendencies. They are very sensitive souls and need solitude to balance their vata nature. Ultimately, the lesson is to overcome one’s sensory and material attachments. Swati’s primary motivation is artha or material prosperity. Rahu, the ruling planet, can create a strong desire for financial success and lust for life. After these natives have found success in the world, then their spiritual journey can truly begin.