The Sanskrit word "Drishti" literally means "sight" or "gaze." In Jyotish, every planet looks at (aspects) the 7th house from its position — this is the opposition aspect, shared by all nine grahas. This is the fundamental rule: wherever a planet sits, it influences the house directly opposite.

But three planets break this rule with additional special aspects: Mars also aspects the 4th and 8th houses, Jupiter also aspects the 5th and 9th houses (the trines), and Saturn also aspects the 3rd and 10th houses. These special aspects dramatically increase these planets' sphere of influence — Saturn, for example, controls four houses from any position (3rd, 7th, 10th from placement, plus the house it occupies).

Aspect = influence. The nature of the influence depends entirely on which planet is casting the aspect. Jupiter's aspect is benevolent — it protects, expands, and blesses whatever it gazes upon. Saturn's aspect is restrictive — it delays, disciplines, and forces maturity. Mars's aspect is aggressive — it energizes, creates conflict, but also gives courage. Rahu and Ketu aspect like Jupiter (5th, 7th, 9th) according to Parashari principles, but their influence is shadowy and obsessive.