In Vedic astrology, the placement of Mercury in the 1st house is considered to be one of the most powerful positions for this planet. This is particularly true when Mercury is in an exalted state, as it is for those born under the sign of Virgo. When Mercury is positioned in this way, it becomes the lord of both the 1st and 10th houses, which means that it has a special responsibility for protecting and promoting these areas of life.