ASTRO – PORTRAIT OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
BY DR. E. S. NEELAKANTAN
INTRODUCTION:
Benjamin Franklin was a renowned American polymath who played a pivotal role in drafting the Declaration of Independence-one of the most significant documents in world history. This historic declaration proclaimed the Thirteen Colonies as independent, sovereign states, no longer under British colonial rule. Widely regarded as one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Franklin is also celebrated as one of the most influential political philosophers and intellectuals of his time. With this brief introduction, we now turn to an astrological examination of the key features of his birth chart.
BIRTH AND PARENTAGE:
Benjamin Franklin was born in Boston on January 17, 1706, to Josiah Franklin and Abiah Folger. Josiah, who was married twice, fathered a total of seventeen children. Benjamin was the eighth child from his second wife, Abiah, and the fifteenth of Josiah's children overall. Notably, the lord of the 2nd house, Mars, is strongly placed in the 10th house. Its sign-dispositor, Jupiter, is exalted in the 5th house, occupies its own Navamsa (Aries), and garners five bindus in its BAV chart. These astrological factors clearly point to why Benjamin Franklin was born into such a large family.
ASHTAKAVARGA ANGLE:
In Benjamin Franklin’s horoscope, Saturn stands out as particularly challenging, registering only three bindus in the Bhinna Ashtakavarga (BAV). In contrast, all other planets hold four or more bindus, which is considered a highly favorable trait in astrological assessment. Mars, Mercury, and Venus each contribute five bindus, highlighting their auspicious influence on the chart. The Sarva Ashtakavarga (SAV) chart shows the highest concentration of bindus-32 each-in the 8th and 10th houses. This strongly supports the interpretations of longevity and exceptional professional achievement. Furthermore, the 11th house, with 28 bindus, surpasses the 12th house, which has only 23 bindus. This configuration points toward a successful and rewarding career trajectory.
YOGAS:
Franklin’s chart contains several powerful yogas, three of which are particularly noteworthy:
- Debilitated-Exalted Raja Yoga (Sarvartha Chintamani, 9/15): This yoga states that a planet debilitated in the Rasi chart but exalted in the Navamsa creates a Raja Yoga, elevating the individual to positions of authority, wealth, and influence. In Franklin’s case, Saturn is debilitated in the Rasi chart but gains exaltation in the Navamsa, fulfilling this yoga and enhancing his stature.
- Neechabhanga Raja Yoga (Phaladeepika, Chapter 7, Verse 26): When a planet is debilitated but its sign lord is positioned in a quadrant (Kendra) from the Ascendant, it forms the celebrated Neechabhanga Raja Yoga. In Franklin's chart, Saturn is debilitated, while its dispositor Mars is in a Kendra from the Lagna, activating this powerful yoga. This yoga bestows fame, leadership, and distinction.
- Exalted 10th Lord Yoga (Sarvartha Chintamani, 8/22): When the 10th house lord is a benefic and is placed in its sign of exaltation, it brings professional renown. In Franklin’s horoscope, Jupiter-the benefic ruler of the 10th house-is exalted in Cancer, which further affirms his rise to fame and success in public life.
EARLY LIFE AND APPRENTICESHIP:
Benjamin Franklin was born during the Rahu Mahadasha, but it was during the Jupiter Mahadasha-from 1712 to 1728-that his formative years and intellectual foundation were laid. Jupiter, as the ruler of Pisces Ascendant, holds a strong and auspicious position in the fifth house. Pisces rising typically bestows philosophical insight, intellectual depth, and a strong moral compass-all qualities that came to define Franklin's life of learning, scientific inquiry, and public service.
In 1718, at the age of 12, Franklin was undergoing the Jupiter-Mercury period. Mercury, a planet associated with intellect, communication, and writing, played a pivotal role during this phase. It was during this joint period that Franklin began his apprenticeship under his brother James as a printer. This marked the beginning of his journey in the world of publishing and public discourse.
In 1723, during the Jupiter-Moon period, Franklin left his apprenticeship without his brother's permission, effectively becoming a fugitive. He relocated to Philadelphia, where he would lay the foundation for a new chapter in his life. By the end of the Jupiter Mahadasha, Franklin had established himself as the publisher of The Pennsylvania Gazette, gaining widespread respect for his industriousness, intellect, and commitment to civic values.
At this stage in life, Franklin’s chief aspiration was to promote moral virtue among colonial Americans. He viewed himself as uniquely equipped to guide others in leading ethical lives. His dual objective was both idealistic and practical: to instil moral values while also earning a livelihood. With this in mind, he attempted to create an inter-colonial network of newspapers-a venture that saw mixed results but demonstrated his visionary thinking.
The Saturn Mahadasha that followed warrants special attention. Although Saturn appears weak in Franklin’s Bhinna Ashtakavarga chart and is debilitated in the Rasi chart, its exaltation in the Navamsa chart significantly elevated its impact. This transformation enabled Saturn to become the source of a powerful yoga, ultimately contributing to Franklin’s enduring success and influence.
INITIATION INTO MASONIC LODGE:
Saturn is traditionally regarded as the planet of philosophy, discipline, and karma-often associated with life’s trials, introspection, and the unfolding of past karmic influences. It was during the Saturn Mahadasha and Saturn Antardasha that Benjamin Franklin was initiated into the Masonic Lodge, marking a significant spiritual and intellectual milestone in his life.
Between 1735 and 1738, Franklin served as the secretary of St. John’s Lodge in Philadelphia, actively participating in its affairs and deepening his engagement with Masonic principles. During this period, he also published a reprint of James Anderson’s influential work, Constitutions of the Freemasons, further reflecting his commitment to the fraternity.
Notably, Franklin remained a dedicated Freemason for the rest of his life, embracing its ideals of brotherhood, moral development, and philosophical inquiry-qualities that resonated strongly with the Saturnian influence present during this formative period.
MARRIAGE:
Benjamin Franklin married Deborah Read on September 1, 1730. At the time of their marriage, transit Saturn was conjunct his natal Moon, while Jupiter, Mercury, and the Sun were positioned in the 7th house in Leo. According to a well-established astrological principle, the transit of Jupiter through the 2nd, 5th, 7th, 9th, or 11th houses is considered highly auspicious, particularly for events such as marriage.
From the perspective of Franklin’s Moon sign, both Saturn and the Sun, ruling the Ascendant and the 7th house respectively, were aligned along the 1st–7th axis, highlighting a classic configuration for marriage. Franklin, born under the sensitive sign of Pisces, also benefited from a significant planetary conjunction-transiting Jupiter and Mercury (Lords of Lagna and the 7th house)-coming together in the 7th house from the Moon, further strengthening the yogas for marriage.
Although Franklin had known Deborah since 1723, their romantic involvement began in earnest in 1726, following some initial setbacks. It was during a transit of Jupiter through the 7th house from the Moon that their relationship culminated in marriage in 1730.
Ancient texts like the Saravali state that when Cancer occupies the 5th house and is aspected by the Sun, it often indicates early childbirth-a prediction that proved true in the case of Benjamin Franklin. However, the placement of the Putra Karaka (significator of children) in the 5th house illustrates the classical dictum: "The karaka occupying its own bhava is detrimental to the results of that bhava." This, too, held true in Franklin's life, as his son Francis, born in 1732, tragically died of smallpox in 1736.
Franklin also achieved significant success with the publication of Poor Richard's Almanack, a widely popular publication that ran from 1732 to 1758 and reportedly sold up to 10,000 copies annually. Almanacs were a staple of colonial American households, offering seasonal weather forecasts, farming advice, puzzles, and entertainment. They also featured extensive astronomical and astrological content, along with Franklin’s iconic aphorisms and proverbs. The bulk of this work was produced during the Saturn and Mercury dashas, both of which played favorable roles in his professional life.
In 1737, Franklin was appointed Postmaster of Philadelphia, a position he held until 1753. During his tenure, he expanded the postal network to include key cities like Quebec, Montreal and New York. Between 1757 and 1764-excluding a two-year gap-Franklin lived in England. Later, on July 26, 1775, he became the first Postmaster General of the United States.
In astrology, government roles are influenced by the Sun. In Franklin’s chart, the Sun and Jupiter (the 10th house lord) are in mutual aspect, further emphasized by Jupiter occupying the Sun’s sign, Leo, in the Navamsa chart. Additionally, the Sun is placed in Pisces in the D-9 chart, creating a mutual exchange of signs between the Sun and Jupiter. Communication, ruled by the 3rd house, is another notable theme in Franklin’s career. The 3rd lord, Venus, is placed in the 10th house of career, and its sign-dispositor is exalted in Cancer. In the Navamsa chart, Venus is conjunct Jupiter, reinforcing Franklin’s success in fields related to communication, books, printing, and postal services.
SCIENTIFIC WORKS:
Benjamin Franklin's astrological chart provides fascinating insights into his genius as both a scientist and an innovator. The 8th house, which governs research and deep inquiry, and the 9th house, representing higher education and philosophical exploration, are particularly significant in his chart. The lords of these two houses are conjoined in the 10th house, which is associated with career, public life, and achievements. This alignment underscores how Franklin’s intellectual pursuits were intrinsically linked to his professional success and his profound impact on science and innovation.
A critical factor in Franklin's scientific brilliance was the placement of Mercury and Jupiter in his chart. Mercury, the planet of intellect and communication, plays a crucial role in both research and education. Jupiter, exalted in the 5th house of creativity, knowledge, and intellectual expression, forms a mutual aspect with Mercury, amplifying Franklin’s cognitive abilities and his ability to convey complex ideas with clarity. This powerful combination of Mercury and Jupiter likely contributed to his groundbreaking contributions in science.
One notable example of Franklin’s sharp scientific insight occurred on October 21, 1743, during his observation of a solar eclipse. While attempting to sight the eclipse, Franklin encountered a strong wind blowing from the Northeast direction, which obstructed his view. Even after the eclipse had passed, the storm did not reach Boston, which is located to the northeast of Philadelphia. From this observation, Franklin deduced that storms do not always move in the direction of the prevailing winds-a crucial realization that would later become an important concept in meteorology.
This combination of astrological alignment and intellectual prowess helped Franklin not only to observe the natural world keenly but also to make discoveries that had lasting impacts on scientific thought.
Budha-Aditya Yoga:
Benjamin Franklin’s horoscope features a powerful Budha-Aditya Yoga (Sun-Mercury conjunction) in the 11th house-a placement known for bestowing intelligence, communication skills, and success. What enhances the strength of this yoga is the fact that both the Sun and Mercury are strong in the Sarva Ashtakavarga (SAV) chart and benefit from the aspect of Jupiter, further amplifying their positive influence.
The Mercury Mahadasha, which began in 1747 and lasted for 17 years, marked a significant turning point in Franklin’s life. Individuals born with Budha-Aditya Yoga are known to be highly intelligent, articulate, virtuous, self-disciplined, and widely respected. According to Bhawartha Ratnakara (2/25), when the Sun and Mercury are conjoined in a Kendra, Trikona, or the 11th house, the native may develop expertise in mathematics. In Franklin’s case, this yoga extended beyond mathematics, granting him a broad mastery of science and scientific reasoning.
Franklin’s contributions to science were both groundbreaking and diverse. In 1752, he conducted his famous kite experiment, which led to the invention of the lightning rod, a device that protects buildings from lightning strikes. Throughout his life, he crossed the Atlantic Ocean eight times, using these voyages to observe oceanic and weather patterns. His study of ocean currents and mapping of the Gulf Stream significantly improved navigation and reduced travel time across the Atlantic.
In the field of public health, Franklin was remarkably ahead of his time. He suggested that proper ventilation and avoiding contact with sick individuals could prevent the spread of the common cold-a visionary idea long before the discovery of viruses and bacteria.
In 1783, while Franklin was in France, Europe experienced a strange summer less season caused by a dense fog. Franklin correctly attributed the climatic disturbance to a volcanic eruption in Iceland, whose ash had entered the upper atmosphere and disrupted weather patterns. This analysis showcased his commitment to scientific reasoning, inspired by the Newtonian method-starting with observation, followed by experimentation, and then seeking practical applications of knowledge.
Franklin’s inventive mind produced a range of creations, including the lightning rod, urinary catheter, Franklin stove, bifocal glasses, swim fins, odometer, and the glass armonica.
Although Bhawartha Ratnakara highlights that the Sun-Mercury conjunction in the 11th can make one a mathematician, in Franklin’s case, this yoga endowed him with exceptional command across various scientific fields, including mathematics.
Ketu and Venus Dashas: Shifts in Focus and Fortune
From 1764 to 1771, Franklin was under the Mahadasha of Ketu. During this period, he played a diplomatic role, attempting to reconcile differences between the American colonies and the British Crown. He also harboured ambitions of holding a position within the imperial hierarchy. However, being a natural malefic, Ketu brought with it feelings of frustration, nostalgia, and emotional turmoil. It was during this introspective phase that Franklin began writing his now-famous autobiography.
In 1771, the Venus Mahadasha began-a 20-year period that proved to be extremely favorable, both personally and historically, as the American colonies edged toward independence. Venus, placed in the 10th house along with Mars (lord of the 9th house), formed a powerful combination for career and destiny. The sign dispositor of Venus, Jupiter, is exalted in the 5th house, further enhancing its strength. From the Moon-sign, Venus becomes a Yogakaraka and is situated in the favorable 11th house, signifying gains, recognition, and fulfillment of long-term goals.
The American Revolutionary War coincided with the Venus dasha in Benjamin Franklin's horoscope. This alignment was largely due to Venus being conjunct with Mars, a fiery planet, in the fiery sign of Sagittarius. The aspect of Mars on the Ascendant and the Fourth house made this period particularly challenging for Franklin. However, the eventual success was assured, as the sign dispositor of the Mars-Venus conjunction was well-placed in the Fifth house.
The American Revolution did not happen suddenly; rather, it was the result of a growing rift between the American colonies and the British Crown. During the French and Indian War (1754–1763), the British Crown accumulated significant debt. To recover the costs of the war, a series of taxes were imposed on the American colonies, including the Sugar Act (1764), the Stamp Act (1765), and the Townshend Acts (1767).
One of the main grievances of the colonists was the principle of “No Taxation without Representation," meaning that it was unconstitutional for taxes to be imposed on the colonists without their representation in the British Parliament.
The Tea Act of 1773 was passed by the British Parliament, allowing the East India Company to ship tea directly to North America. The colonists recognized the implications of this Act and opposed the delivery and distribution of tea. On December 16, 1773, approximately 342 chests of tea were thrown into Boston Harbour by the Sons of Liberty activists, who boarded the British ship Dartmouth disguised as Native Americans. This event became known as the Boston Tea Party.
On June 14, 1775, the Continental Army was formed through a resolution passed by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. The army included soldiers from all thirteen states, with George Washington appointed as Commander-in-Chief, a position he held throughout the war. The Continental Army was organized to coordinate military efforts against the British, who were determined to maintain control over the colonies. During the Siege of Boston (1775–1776), the Continental Army laid siege to the city.
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, primarily written by Thomas Jefferson. This document laid the philosophical foundation for a new nation, emphasizing the rights of individuals to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in 1777 played a crucial role in convincing France to enter the war on the side of the Americans. France provided essential military support, including troops, supplies, and assistance, which proved vital to the success of the American Revolution.
The final major military confrontation of the American Revolution took place at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. In this decisive battle, George Washington, with the support of French forces, laid siege to the British. The fighting ended on October 19, 1781. The war officially concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, in which the Americans secured favourable terms, largely thanks to the diplomatic efforts of Benjamin Franklin, along with John Adams and John Jay. The treaty recognized the sovereignty of the United States and established its borders from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mississippi River, and from Canada to Florida. This marked the end of British colonial dominance over North America.
Franklin's reputation as an inventor, scientist, writer, and skilled diplomat earned him great respect in France. His diplomatic abilities were crucial in securing French support for the American cause, which played a key role in the success of the revolution. In August 1784, Thomas Jefferson arrived in Paris to join Franklin in negotiating commercial treaties.
Franklin served as a mentor to Jefferson, teaching him the art of international diplomacy. When asked about his succession as ambassador to France, Jefferson responded, “No one can replace him, sir; I am only his successor."
The United States of America officially came into existence on July 4, 1776, during Franklin’s Venus dasha and Moon bhukti. In his D-10 chart, both the Moon in Cancer and Venus in Taurus were strongly placed, highlighting the significant role Franklin played in the formation of the nation. His contributions to the American Revolution were undeniably vital.
HEALTH ISSUES:
Benjamin Franklin was born under the watery sign of Pisces, with his lagna lord Jupiter also placed in the watery sign of Cancer. Since Jupiter is a watery planet, this combination led to the formation of "Dehasthoulya Yoga," as described in Sarwartha Chintamani, which predisposes one to obesity. Obesity, in turn, often causes related health issues. In Franklin’s chart, Mars in the 10th house, aspected by Saturn, suggests a tendency for gout, a condition he suffered from in his later years. This is further reinforced in the navamsa chart, where Mars and Saturn form a mutual aspect.
Additionally, Franklin’s health was affected by pleurisy, primarily due to a conjunction of Mercury (the planet of respiration), the 6th house lord Sun, and Rahu in the 3rd house, which governs the chest and lungs. Franklin ultimately passed away from this condition on April 17, 1790, during his Saturn Sade Sathi period, a time known for challenging one’s physical and emotional endurance
FINAL COMMENTS:
Franklin’s unique ability to combine leadership with empathy played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the United States, establishing him as one of the most influential figures in American history. It is often said that as long as the United States is seen as a land of opportunity and enterprise, where success is attributed to hard work, Benjamin Franklin’s legacy will remain enduring. His lasting renown is, in part, due to the fact that he was the only founding father to have signed all three of the nation's most significant documents-the Declaration of Independence, the Treaty of Paris, and the U.S. Constitution-which collectively secured America's freedom from Britain
Birth details of Benjamin Franklin: Courtesy - Astrosage