In astrology, a planet’s speed and direction of motion are important accidental dignities that describe how effectively it can act.

🌞 1. Direct Motion

• A planet is in direct motion when it is moving forward through the zodiac in its normal path.
• Represents clarity, progress, confidence, and outward expression.
• Direct planets act more strongly and openly, their influence is easier to notice.

✨ Symbolism: Think of a river flowing forward, carrying everything smoothly in its natural direction.

🌙 2. Retrograde Motion (Opposite of Direct)

• When a planet appears to move backward in the sky due to Earth’s orbit.
• Retrograde weakens accidental dignity, often causing delays, reversals, inner reflection, or unusual behavior.
• Planets retrograde may act contrary to their nature, or show results later than expected.

⚡ Symbolism: Like walking against the wind – progress is slower, effort feels harder.

🏃 3. Swift in Motion

• A planet is considered swift when it moves faster than its average daily motion.
• A swift planet is energetic, strong, efficient, bringing quick results.
• Especially significant in horary astrology: a swift planet shows fast developments.

✨ Symbolism: Like an athlete sprinting at full speed, cutting through obstacles quickly.

🐢 4. Slow in Motion

• A planet is slow when its movement is less than its average daily speed.
• Slow planets act deliberately, with delays, hesitation, or obstacles.
• In horary and electional work, this can indicate slowness, blockages, or things taking longer to manifest.

🌑 Symbolism: Like carrying a heavy load uphill — movement is steady but delayed.

🔑 Why This Matters

• A direct & swift planet = strong, reliable, effective action.
• A retrograde & slow planet = weak, hesitant, delayed action.
• Combining speed and direction gives astrologers a nuanced view of how events unfold in real life.

✅ Quick Reference Table