The sixteenth lunar mansion is named Vishakha, the “starof purpose.” It resides primarily in the constellation of Libra and consists of four stars forming the scales while extending toward the sign of the Scorpion. This nakshatra is thus called “the forked” or “two branched.” Vishakha is sometimes represented by an image of a large tree with spreading branches providing protection for others. It also suggests one who slowly grows in influence and can produce great fruit as one ripens with age. It is also known as Radha, “the delightful” or “success.” Devotees of Krishna may reside here. The other symbols for Vishakha are an archway or triumphal gateway decorated with leaves and a potter’s wheel. The deities are Indra, the God of transformation and Agni, the God offire. Combined they reflect the energy, strength, and potential power of this asterism. Jupiter is the ruling planet ofVishakha which gives enthusiasm, faith, optimism and hope for the future. It provides the power to achieve many and various fruits in life (vyapani shakti).’ Vishakha is reflected through plowing, cultivation and finally obtaining the fruit of the harvest. It helps the individual attain his or her goals abundantly through the passage of time, like a farmer plowing his field. Another image for Vishakha is a potter sitting patiently at the potter’s wheel creating his art. This lunar mansion can give an individual the patience, persistence and determination to accomplish any task. Its natives are courageous souls who experience success in the second half of life. The shadow side can be an aggressive, dictatorial nature. These” people can win the battle, but lose the war by pushing their agendas too strongly. A quarrelsome personality may be present here. There can be issues with suppressed anger and frustration. They may try to fulfill too many ambitions. Vishakha people can be envious or covetous of the success of others. They may lack a strong social network of friends and feel isolated and alone against the world. Bitterness and resentment may result. The Moon is debilitated in the last segment or pada (3 0 20 1 ) of this lunar mansion. Vishakha has a rakshasa temperament and a strong sexual appetite. Problems due to romantic affairs and infidelity can occur. Issues of betrayal and disappointment can occur in early marriage. This reflects the story of Radha’s love affair with Krishna. Although Radha’s divine love affair may be morally questioned, it is also characterized by prema (selfless love for the belovcdl? Selfless love is what Krishna truly desired from his devotees. Success in relationships can be experienced later in life. Vishakha does not give immediate results, but profits and gains over time.