Introduction to Vedic Astrology

Indian astrology or ‘Jyotish’ is often referred to as Vedic astrology. Though there is no mention of astrology in the Vedas, it is believed to date back to the Vedic period and also many prayers and remedies prescribed in indian astrology are also in the Vedic system.

 

Astrology is the science of the effects of the planet’s movements on people’s lives. Astrologers need to know the correct positions of the planets and zodiacal fixed star signs in relation to any place on earth at any given time. When the correct positions of the signs and planets are identified, astrologers can make astrology charts that are then used to help a person make positive choices in life. Vedic astrology believes that planets and stars can influence events on Earth, and a soul incarnating in a body at a specific time and place, reflects conditions of the greater whole. Vedic astrology is interlinked with Karma, fate and free will. Fate in Karma refers to a present condition being the result of past actions from previous lives. Free will in Karma means that the future is created by present actions.

 

Based on the planets at the time of birth, sixteen divisional charts (Varga’s) are prepared, by dividing the degrees of the planets. These charts are examined to work out the strength and weakness of planets and houses. For example, one-ninth division called Navamsa to study spouse and married life. The last Varga, Shodashamsa, is prepared by dividing the planet’s degrees in to one-sixtieth parts. Vedic astrology uses an additional 27-fold division of the zodiac called Nakshatra (star constellations). Nakshatra positions of planets are examined in the birth chart and are Vedic astrology is one of the oldest forms of astrology. It evolved over 5,000 years ago and is based on a body of knowledge known as the 'Vedas,' which translates to 'knowledge' or 'wisdom,' and is referred to as Jyotish, -- the ‘light of the heavenly bodies’. Today, Vedic astrology is acknowledged as one of the most powerful forms of astrology in practice and is followed by millions around the world.