Yavanacharya called Vrshchika (Scorpio) a deep opening in the earth whose correspondence in the human individual extends over the middle portion of the body represented by the genitals and the anus. The sign represents a cavity, a hiding place, a hole in which Vasuki, the Serpent Naga, surrounds and protects the precious gem. Naturally, this is a mysterious sign. The appellation Vrshchika (scorpion) is significant. This insect practices a very primitive form of animal association yet for the most part leads a strictly individualistic life. It avoids others except to fight to the death; the victor usually devours the victim. A scorpion is sensitive to heat and dies easily when exposed to the rays of the Sun in a closed container. These characteristics point directly to the occult nature of this sign. Vrshchika (Scorpio) signifies energies which, if properly managed, could lead to a tremendous unfoldment of psychic power. But unless this process of unfoldment is perfectly understood, any activation of it is likely to lead to untold misery. It is related to hidden aspects of life, especially connected with the kundalini. Though the activities of an individual will be guided by this energy at various levels of his existence, the ways in which this energy manifests are not well known; Vrshchika's (Scorpio) impact is often considered difficult to comprehend. In ordinary individuals this energy works on the sex life, and sexuality is secret. Secrecy rules supreme in other aspects of life as well. But if the kundalini is controlled and well regulated, there is the possibility of harnessing psychic and other occult powers. Vrshchika (Scorpio) is the pit, the hidden recess of the earth where the Serpent Power is hidden, awaiting arousal. Unless one is careful, many dangerous and destructive possibilities can emerge from this sign.

Vrshchika (Scorpio) brings much conflict, destruction and chaos. The Serpent Naga which symbolizes this sign was used hi the churning of the Great Milk Ocean when the gods and demons retrieved the immortalizing nectar. That churning power resides in Vrshchika (Scorpio): the 8th sign creates chaos wherever it strikes. Turmoil, upsets, and unexpected developments arise. All these difficulties sooner or later produce the nectar of immortality. The special feature of Vrshchika (Scorpio) is its directness in achieving the result. Vrshchika (Scorpio) is feminine, watery, and fixed. Chandra (Moon) is debilitated here and no planet is exalted. Mangala (Mars) owns this sign. These characteristics emphasize the creative nature of Vrshchika (Scorpio). Only when some favorable force or active agent operates on it can the sign be effective in producing its results. Generally its influence is not commendable. It may be sensitive but it can also be disruptive. Vindictiveness, impetuosity, selfishness, determination and tenacity are important traits of this sign. Vrshchika's (Scorpio) watery nature emphasizes its imponderable depth.