Shukra (Venus) is the planet of the subtle body. His role is to change the subtle within us. He holds authority over all of the secrets of Duality, and is in constant evolution and change.
Shukra has been elevated to the position of a Guru by the Asuras (negative qualities), who respect him and think that his authority is special and formidable.
The Guru of Duality, Shukra, is in direct opposition to the Guru of the Wise, Brihaspati (Jupiter). As such, Shukra and Brihaspati became enemies.
Brihaspati and Shukra are both grantors of pleasures, but between the two, Brihaspati is considered superior because the pleasure he grants comes from purity and clarity.
Attributes of Shukra
When we look at the outward manifestations, we often don’t notice that it is in continuous change. Everything appears consistent.
However, when we look introspectively, our life is in constant motion. This is the influence of Shukra, who is in constant evolution and change.
He is the creator of various forms of beings that live. He presides over all attachments. He is the embodiment of the desire to experience life as an individual, without which, the forms of being would not manifest.
When we become united with Shukra, we become very powerful.
In whatever location and in whatever attitude that work is performed, all of the fruits of those actions are the blessings of Shukra.
Having authority over all attributes and talents, Shukra is revered in the material world.
Shukra is the cause of love, affection, and their modifications for all beings.
In fact, whatever is considered beautiful, the cause of its beauty is none other than Shukra.
Therefore, all that has loving attributes fall within the domain of Shukra. For this reason, Jaimini Rishi wrote many poems and stories about Shukra.
It is not surprising that Shukra is respected by society and in all associations.
Brihaspati Compared to Shukra
Brihaspati illuminates the expressions of knowledge, while Shukra employs that knowledge in various actions.
In Brihaspati’s domain the gross meanings of all are explained. In Shukra’s domain the subtle meanings of the gross phenomena are actually experienced.
Brihaspati is an inventor. Shukra provides spirit to an invention.
Brihaspati allows the form of all thoughts in the mind. Shukra’s perception is of the actual inner nature of each thought.
Brihaspati feels the reality of the gross body. Shukra wants to experience the world through the senses.
In every human’s astrological charts, both Brihaspati and Shukra give forth their influences. Given this understanding, wisdom and efficiency in action are determined, and beauty, wealth, and bliss, even if they do not reside in that person’s house, they still remain inside that person’s heart.
The Worship of Shukra
Worshiping Shukra brings wealth, harmony, and makes a person gentle and considerate.
Learn Shukra’s Mantra and get your copy of the Mantras of the Nine Planets to chant along with Shree Maa!