VEDIC ASTROLOGY
Vedic Astrology is one of the oldest and principal branches of astrology. In Sanskrit, it is known as “Jyotisha”, meaning “light” or “the eye of the Vedas”, through which the past, present and future are traditionally understood. It developed in ancient India through the knowledge, observations and calculations of great sages and scholars such as Maharishi Parashara.
Below is a simple and detailed explanation of the core principles, foundations and traditional methods of Vedic Astrology:
1. Core Components
Vedic Astrology is primarily based on three major components:
• 9 Planets (Navagraha): Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, along with the two shadow planets Rahu and Ketu.
• 12 Zodiac Signs: From Aries to Pisces, the zodiac consists of 12 signs, each representing a 30-degree division of the complete 360-degree zodiac.
• 27 Nakshatras (Lunar Mansions): One of the unique features of Vedic Astrology is the use of Nakshatras. Each zodiac sign contains approximately two and a quarter Nakshatras. Traditionally, Nakshatras are considered important in understanding a person’s mind, tendencies and life patterns.
2. Birth Chart or Ascendant Chart
A Birth Chart is a traditional astrological map showing the positions of the planets and celestial bodies at the exact time and place of a person’s birth.
• Ascendant (Lagna): The zodiac sign rising in the eastern sky at the time of birth is called the Ascendant or Lagna. Traditionally, it is associated with the person’s physical constitution, personality and general nature.
• 12 Houses: A Birth Chart contains 12 Houses. Each house is traditionally associated with different areas of life. For example, the 1st House relates to the self and body, the 2nd House to wealth and speech, the 3rd House to courage and efforts, and the 4th House to home, comfort and mother.
3. Dasha System
One of the distinctive features of Vedic Astrology is the Dasha system. Among the various Dasha systems, Vimshottari Dasha, based on a 120-year cycle, is widely used.
• According to traditional Vedic Astrology, the Nakshatra occupied by the Moon at the time of birth determines the starting point of the planetary Dasha sequence.
• For example, if Jupiter Mahadasha is operating, traditional astrology interprets Jupiter as having a significant influence during that period. Dashas are used to study the timing of different phases and events in life.
4. Transit (Gochar)
The current movement of planets through the zodiac signs is traditionally called Transit or Gochar. Astrologers compare current planetary positions with the Birth Chart to provide daily, monthly or yearly astrological interpretations.
5. Karma and the Purpose of Astrology
Vedic Astrology traditionally connects human life with the concept of Karma. The Birth Chart is viewed as a symbolic map of one’s karmic tendencies and life patterns.
The traditional purpose of astrology is to help a person understand possible challenges and favourable periods in life and to provide guidance. Traditional remedies may include gemstones, mantras, charity or puja, according to the astrological interpretation.
What Would You Like to Know?
• Would you like an analysis based on your Birth Sign or Ascendant?
• Would you like to know about a specific astrological Yoga, such as Gajakesari Yoga or Raj Yoga?
• Would you like guidance regarding a current concern or traditional astrological remedies?