Why is Yellow the color of Jupiter (Brihaspati)?

August 12 2025, 7 min reading time

Hope, excitement and many other things are important for the people and if luck was to play a part, it does with Jupiter as a planet. Know more here.

Why is Yellow the color of Jupiter (Brihaspati)?

In Vedic astrology and Hindu mythology, every planet is more than a celestial body as it is considered a powerful entity, almost like a living force which is deeply intertwined with our lives and destinies. One such revered planet is Jupiter which is also known as Guru, Brihaspati and Devagura. In Sanskrit these names mean, “teacher. Lord of light and teacher to the gods”. Jupiter is the second most beneficial planet after Venus, generally considered to be the most auspicious of the planets. He rules over two sidereal signs of Sagittarius (Dhanur) and Pisces (Meen).

Brihaspati is associated with wisdom, learning, prosperity, and righteousness. Among all the symbols and attributes tied to this planetary deity, one colour shines the brightest and that is colour yellow. But why is this colour so deeply connected to the planet? To answer this we need to understand the blend of mythology, astrology, astronomy, and cultural symbolism of Jupiter and colour yellow.

The Mythological Significance of Yellow and Brihaspati

In Hindu mythology, Brihaspati is the Deva Guru, the spiritual guide of the gods. Brahaspati attained the position of Guru of the Devas by performing penances on the banks of Prabhas Tirtha. Lord Shiva granted him this position, as well as his position as one of the Navagrahas (Nine planets). In the Bhagavad Gita, Shree Krishna says, “I am Brihaspati among the priests.”

In later times, Brihaspati was identified with the planet of the same name, equated with Jupiter. He is thus one of the Navagraha or nine planets and is represented in temples on Navagraha panels. The Agni Purana states that his images should be adorned with a necklace of Rudraksha beads. Brihaspati’s chariot is called Nitighosha and is drawn by eight pale horses.

In early reliefs, Brahaspati was two-handed, sometimes holding a rosary and water pot. In modern temples and art, he is depicted dressed in yellow and seated on a lotus, or in his chariot. He has four arms and holds a mace, a rosary and a sphere or water- pot. He is often depicted as a wise, radiant sage with a golden or yellowish complexion. This colour symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and divine knowledge. In Vedic tradition, yellow represents sattva guna (purity and wisdom).

Furthermore, gold is associated with immortality and divine light, making it a fitting colour for the planet that governs wisdom. Brihaspati’s yellow hue signifies his role as the illuminator of truth, much like the morning sun that dispels darkness.

In rituals, Jupiter is often worshipped with turmich (haldi) which is a yellow spice symbolizing auspiciousness and prosperity. Even gold offerings are made to Jupiter to strengthen its benevolent influence in one’s horoscope.

Therefore, the colour yellow, traditionally associated with light, learning, and knowledge clearly mirrors Brihaspati’s divine qualities. Just as sunlight brings clarity and warmth, Brihaspati brings truth and understanding. This alignment between the characteristics of the deity and the qualities symbolized by yellow is not a coincidence as it is deeply rooted in symbolic resonance.

Jupiter rules Thursday and the prescribed colour for this day is yellow. Thursdays are considered to be the best days for the worship of Jupiter. Worship of this Devata results in a cure from ailments affecting the stomach and helps one to ward off his sins, helps him in gaining strength, valour, longevity etc. he grants the boon of father- hood to the childless, good education. Devotees often wear yellow clothes, offer yellow flowers, and consume yellow- coloured food on Thursdays to honour Brihaspati and attract his blessings.

Astrological Interpretations of Jupiter’s Benevolent Energy

As we have already talked about, each planet is associated with a colour that reflects its energy and influence. Jupiter’s yellow hue is tied to its role as the planet of expansion, fortune and higher learning. Jupiter rules Sagittarius and Pisces linking both signs to spirituality and wisdom. Its colour, yellow, represents optimism, growth and intellectual illumination. Even a strong Jupiter in a birth chart is believed to bring wealth, wisdom and good fortune. These qualities of Jupiter are strongly associated with the traits of colour yellow.

Astronomical perspective as to why Jupiter appears yellow

Beyond mythology and astrology, modern astronomy provides a scientific explanation for Jupiter’s yellowish appearance. Scientifically, Jupiter is a gas giant primarily composed of hydrogen and helium with traces of ammonia, methane and water vapour. The upper clouds of Jupiter contain ammonia crystals, which reflect sunlight in a way that gives the planet a pale yellow or beige tint. The Great Red Spot (a massive storm) and other atmospheric bands add varying shades but the dominant hue remains yellowish- white.

Unlike rocky planets, Jupiter does not have a solid surface, it's visible colour comes from cloud layers. The interaction of sunlight with ammonia and other compounds scatters light in a manner that enhances its yellowish appearance from afar.

Cultural and historical associations

Across different cultures, Jupiter has been linked with yellow or golden hues due to its brightness and association with kingship and divinity. Even in many Hindu traditions, yellow is used during religious ceremonies and rituals, especially those invoking prosperity and spiritual growth. For instance, turmeric (a sacred yellow spice) plays a vital role in weddings and purification rituals. Saffron and yellow sandalwood paste are applied to deities in temples especially on days dedicated to Jupiter.

Students and spiritual seekers often wear yellow garments or use yellow cloth on their study tables symbolizing a readiness to absorb knowledge. Even the flag of the planet Jupiter in astrological yantras is typically yellow.

Therefore, yellow is the colour of Jupiter because it encapsulates everything Brahaspati represents like divine wisdom, spiritual growth, benevolence, and the golden light of knowledge. It is not just a colour worn or seen rather it is a vibration that connects the devotee to the energy of the cosmos.

In today’s fast paced world, reconnecting with such symbols reminds us of the deeper rhythms of life. The next time you wear yellow on a Thursday or light a yellow candle in meditation, know that you are tuning into the expansive, gracious, and uplifting energy of Jupiter, the celestial teacher who always wants us to grow.

This article was written by our very talented article writer and content strategist, Nikita, who is a spirituality enthusiast.

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