South Node
Also known as South Node of the Moon, Dragon's Tail, Ketu
The South Node represents past lives, innate talents, and comfort zones. It indicates qualities that come naturally but may need to be balanced with North Node lessons.
Overview
| LocationWhere is the South Node | The South Node is always directly opposite the North Node in a natal chart. |
|---|---|
| Calculated based on the intersection of the Moon's orbital path with the ecliptic, moving retrograde through the zodiac. | |
| Related to | Varies, always opposite the North Node |
| Life AreasWhich areas does it influence | Past livesInnate talentsComfort zonesKarmic patternsAreas of potential stagnation |
Mythology
In Vedic astrology, the South Node is known as Ketu, often depicted as the tail of a dragon or snake. It is associated with spirituality, liberation, and moksha (release from the cycle of rebirth).
Discover your South Node influences with our Charts and Horoscopes
South Node Sign Traits and Interpretations
The following table shows how the South Node can influence your life depending on which of the Zodiac signs it falls under in your Chart:
| Aries | Leadership and independence that may need balancing with cooperation |
|---|---|
| Taurus | Understanding of material world and values, potentially needing to learn detachment |
| Gemini | Natural communication skills and adaptability, possibly needing to develop depth and focus |
| Cancer | Inherent nurturing abilities and emotional intelligence, potentially needing to develop independence |
| Leo | Natural creativity and self-expression, possibly needing to learn humility and group collaboration |
| Virgo | Analytical skills and attention to detail, potentially needing to develop big-picture thinking |
| Libra | Diplomacy and relationship skills, possibly needing to develop self-reliance |
| Scorpio | Understanding of depth and transformation, potentially needing to learn simplicity and self-worth |
| Sagittarius | Philosophical outlook and honesty, possibly needing to develop attention to detail |
| Capricorn | Innate sense of responsibility and structure, potentially needing to learn emotional expression |
| Aquarius | Humanitarian ideals and innovation, possibly needing to develop personal passions |
| Pisces | Spirituality and compassion, potentially needing to learn practicality and boundaries |
Common South Node Misconceptions
Below we list some of the common misconceptions surrounding the South Node to help you gain a better understanding and hopefully rid ourselves of some of them.
Misconception #1
The South Node represents only negative past life karma
While the South Node can indicate karmic patterns to be addressed, it also represents innate talents and strengths developed in past lives that can be valuable in this lifetime when properly balanced.
Misconception #2
You should completely move away from your South Node qualities
The goal is not to abandon South Node qualities entirely, but to integrate them with North Node lessons. South Node traits can be valuable when not overemphasized or used as a crutch.
Misconception #3
The South Node has no positive qualities to offer in this lifetime
The South Node represents areas of comfort and natural ability. These qualities can be very beneficial when used in service of North Node growth, providing a foundation of confidence and skill.