Ātmakāraka is a central concept in Jaimini astrology. Among the seven or eight visible planets (Sun through Saturn, optionally including Rahu), the planet that has moved the farthest in its current sign — i.e., has the highest degree — is designated the Atmakaraka. It represents the soul's core lesson or desire for this lifetime. The sign the Atmakaraka occupies in the Navamsha (D9) chart — called the Karakamsha — is of primary importance for understanding the soul's evolution. Classical texts state that the soul chose to be born in a chart where the Atmakaraka is strong, indicating what must be mastered.