In Vedic astrology, the planet Jupiter is known as Guru, Brihaspati and Devaguru, the teacher of the gods. Jupiter is a beneficial planet and considered to be the most auspicious, helpful, generous and beneficent of the planets. He rules over the two sidereal signs of Sagittarius and Pisces and presides over Guruwar or Brihaspatiwar (Thursday). Jupiter's epithets are sacred and many such as "Lord of sacred speech", "Lord of power", "Guru of the Gods", "reader of minds" and "beloved by the Gods". There is a golden crown on his head and beautiful ornaments around his neck. 

According to Hindu scriptures, he is the guru (teacher) of the Devas (gods) He is also known Guru, the god of wisdom and eloquence. His caste is Brahmin (Priest) and his best direction is Northeast. Worship of Brihaspati is dedicated to planet Jupiter. His worship results in progeny, good education, valour, longevity of life and recovery from physical illness. He is friends with the Sun, Moon and Mars; Mercury and Venus are his enemies; he is neutral with Saturn; friendly to Rahu but neutral to Ketu.

Jupiter (Brihaspati), the ‘Lord of Prayers’ is also known as the Gurudeva (the Guru of the Gods), who has a big body, tawny hair and eyes and is intelligent, and learned in shastras. He holds a stick, holy Rudraksha beads and a small pot in three of his hands. His fourth hand is raised in a gesture of blessing. Jupiter rides in a golden chariot drawn by eight golden horses that are as fast as the wind. His weapon is a golden staff. He has a golden complexion and is dressed in yellow garments. He is often shown seated on a lotus flower. Jupiter is the son of Maharishi Angirasa, whose wife performed a special vow with great devotion to the Sanat Kumars (Ashwinis). They granted her a boon of a very wise son, who would know all the shastras and Vedic scriptures. One story tells us that the demons (asuras) were attempting to weaken the gods (devas) by obstructing the offerings from a yagya (sacrificial ritual) being performed for them. Jupiter used a special mantra and drove off the asuras, allowing devas to nourish themselves with the ritual offerings. In order to become the guru of devas, Jupiter did a special penance to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva was pleased with Jupiter's dedication and granted him the privilege of being the "Guru to the Gods." All paintings are courtesy of Art of Legend India.