Let no one suppose that Kanya (Virgo), the sixth sign of the zodiac, is weak because it is feminine, earthy and a common sign. Kanya (Virgo) has a very special significance in the manifestative process. It represents consciousness-in-bondage, but with an understanding that the shackles can be cast away. It represents that Divine discontent which impels the aspirant onto the path of discipleship where mass is converted into energy and matter is subjugated to Spirit. Kanya (Virgo) contains within itself those finer forces of Nature which express ideals and strive for perfection; it is that energy which suffers for the growth and fruition of a child's desire. Kanya (Virgo) arouses conscience and suffering for a noble cause.

Kanya (Virgo) is owned by Buddha (Mercury) which is also in its exaltation here. Shukra (Venus) is debilitated in this sign. Kanya (Virgo) produces intense activity in the realm of the intellect and psychic consciousness, where there is no place for personal pleasure and enjoyment. There is little of merriment produced by this sign, but for the attainment of siddhis there is no other sign which can be so helpful. Kanya (Virgo) is indeed very difficult to comprehend. It is the only sign in the zodiac symbolized by a single human figure and its mystic nature is enhanced by the fact that it is a maiden, not a married female adult. Hindu scriptures link it with Prithivi, the Earth, or Aditi, Celestial Space. The way Kanya (Virgo) influences the individual is difficult to describe. It symbolizes the Female Power (shakti). Yavanacharya described Kanya (Virgo) as holding fire in one hand — the significance of this statement becomes clear only when one pursues the symbolism of fire. There is not a thing or a particle in the universe which does not contain some land of latent fire. Kanya (Virgo) holds within itself the power which enables everything to grow. Just as a mother tenderly guides the growth of her child, even suffering for her child, so Virgo cares for the manifest universe.

On the superficial level of existence, Kanya (Virgo) produces suffering, disquiet, and movement of an undesirable nature. But for inner quietude and tranquility, the grace of the World Mother whom this sign represents is essential. The maiden is shown seated in a boat, holding a chaff of grain hi one hand and fire in the other. The maiden is Kanya's primary symbol; the boat, the fire, and the handful of freshly cut grain are secondary. Moving in the current of manifestative flow, the creative potential moves to provide food and sustenance for its children. This is a sign of great sensitivity. It represents energy concealed in matter.