Kanya is an earth sign ruled by Mercury and a dual sign. Its symbol is a young woman in a boat, holding grain and fire: practical, useful knowledge carried carefully across the water. Mercury is both ruler and exalted here, so the intellect is at its most precise. Venus is debilitated, because love does not flourish under constant analysis.
Virgo holds three padas of Uttara Phalguni, all of Hasta, the skilful hand, and the first half of Chitra. It is the sign of service, health, craft and discernment. Its gift is usefulness; its test is perfectionism.
