Introducing the Enigmatic role of Vedic Astrology in Hinduism

Let’s peep into the world of Vedic Astrology by chanting the given mantra.

Brahma Murariḥ Tripuraṃtakari Bhanu Sashi bhumisuto Budhascha |
Guruscha Sukraḥ Shani Rahu ketavaḥ kurvatu sarve Mama Suprabhatam ||

Namaste!

The meaning of this mantra as- Brahma, Murari, Shiva, Sun, Moon, Mangal, Budha, Guru, Shukra, Sani, Rahu and Ketu – may all the planets and gods make my morning a good morning.

Introduction

To begin with, Vedic Astrology is known as jyotish worldwide. Jyotish is Hindi word which means to illuminate or to give light. Jyotish is an ancient system of Indian astrology. It is based on the principles and teachings found in the Vedas.

Besides, Specialists also known as astrologers, work on the calculations of planetary positions and movements of stars and planets.They convert their findings and conclusions into predictions.

“Vedic astrology is an integral part of our lives. Since birth till death, its influence and presence affects us from the core. We are made up of five elements aka Agni (Fire), Prithvi (Earth), Jal (water), Vayu (wind) and Aakash (sky). Same way, rashis and constellations are also based on these five elements.” as told by Mrs. Laltesh Aggarwal, an astrologer based in India.

Surprisingly, these predictions or foretellings are not new to humans. Since ages, different cultures and different civilizations have been witnessing the impact of astrology on mankind.

Additionally, while surfing history we will see that there is a great influence of astrology on people’s lives all across various societies. Further, the cultural diversity in which astrology plays a role demonstrates its universality and widespread recognition.

Exploring the rich history of Vedic Astrology

Vedic astrology is astrology derived from Vedas. According to vedas, its origins can be traced between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE.

Although, there is prominent Vedic texts of Hinduism which contain references to celestial bodies, their movements, and their influence on human life. This branch of Vedic knowledge is called jyotish shashtra.

Likewise, Rigveda, contains hymns that mention the celestial deities, such as the Surya (Lord Sun), Chandra ( Lord Moon), and the Ushas (dawn).

Similarly, Yajurveda tells us about astronomical calculations related to the Sun and the Moon.

With passage of time, scholars and sages expanded the study of vedic astrology to further level.

Apparently, renonwned sage Prashara, sage Bhrigu and sage Vahar Mihira wrote vital jyotish texts namely Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, Bhrigu Sanhita and Jataka Parijata repectively.

Today, Vedic astrology is practiced and valued by many individuals, both in India and around the world.

Astrology in other cultures

Moreover, all the cultures and religions perform almost same calculations. Their adoption of different methodology to study the stars and planets do fetch same outcomes and results.

Similarly, each and every individual is conscious of his future. All of us, are eager to know the future possibilities and want to act in best possible way to tackle things.

In each faith and culture, every one is concerned about his future challenges. Hence, astrology highlights the possible future events and its lasting significance on ones social and personal life.

How Vedic astrology is related to Hinduism

Hinduism and Vedic astrology have a deep and interlinked relationship. Vedic astrology finds its roots in ancient Hindu scriptures, Vedas. Vedas are the pillars of Hinduism. To read more about it, you can read our blog on Hinduism.

Although, followers of Hinduism behold Vedic astrology at each and every stage of their life.

Mrs. Aggarwal says “when a child is born in Hindu family, there is happy event. Firstly, the parent of the infant perform the namakaran samskara of the child. For this, they rush to astrologer for knowing shubh muhurat and janamkundli (horoscope) of the kid. Thus, importance of Jyotish is never denied.

“We can not miss the festivities and celebration in India. To know the exact date of each festival, we check the muhurat and planetary position. Makar Sankranti is one of the festival related to our jyotish. By one way or the other, we are co-related. Even the ritual of watering the Sun in the morning by each Hindu is a set example. Here, the native is following the ritual since birth, although he might be aware of the astrological benefits of getting good vibes from the Sun” adds Mrs. Aggarwal.

Evidently, astrology has become a fundamental element of religious ceremonies.

Vedas are the Source

However, Vedic astrology is derived from the Jyotish Vedanga (the limb of Vedic knowledge related to astrology and astronomy). The Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda, and the Atharvaveda contain hymns, verses, and references related to celestial bodies, their movements, and their influences on human life.

Jyotish and Cosmic Order

Vedic astrology believe that there is a connection between the celestial bodies and human existence. The movements and positions of planets and stars are seen as a reflection of this cosmic order and are believed to impact the lives of individuals.

The karmic connection

Hinduism emphasizes the concepts of karma and reincarnation. Here, one’s karma (individual’s actions) in past lives and the present life shape their destiny. Jyotish assimilate these concepts by asserting that the positions and interactions of planets. It is in a person’s janampatri (birth chart) that will reveal their karmic patterns and provide insights into their life’s purpose, challenges, and potential.

Rituals and Remedies in vedic astrology

Hinduism has a wide range of rituals, ceremonies, and practices seeking divine blessings. These values and practices believes in mitigating negative influences and enhancing positive aspects of life. In the sam way, Vedic astrology offers remedies and rituals to neutralise the unfavorable planetary influences and enhance positive energies.

These remedies may include specific prayers, havana, mantras, ratna (gemstone recommendations), yantras (sacred geometric symbols) and also performing acts of charity or seva (selfless service).

Astrology and Festivals

As I said above the planetary positions and movements define the calculations of Hindu panchang and hence give us an insightful knowledge of relation between Astrology and festivals around the country.

People from different religious and cultural backgrounds have also accepted Vedic astrology as a system of understanding and navigating life’s challenges. It is valued for its insights, guidance, and potential for self-improvement.

Vedic Astrology and its aspects

Janamkundali

In Vedic astrology, a janamkundali, a birth chart, or horoscope, is created for the native. It is based on the exact date, time, and location of an individual’s birth. Janamakundli or a birth chart is a graphical representation of the positions of the planets and other celestial bodies at the time of birth. It consists of twelve houses and other planetary placements.

Planets

Correspondingly, the seven classical planets: the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn are part of Vedic astrology. It also has two shadowy planets called Rahu and Ketu. Thus, these planest are watched and reviewed to interpret a person’s karmic patterns.

Houses

Indeed, the birth chart is divided into twelve houses, each representing different areas of life such as parents, spouce, children, personality, career, other relationships, money, growth, health, and spirituality. Yet, the position of planets in these houses foresee our future and tells about the future challenges.

Nakshatras

Infact, there are 27 Nakshatras or constellations in vedic astrology. Each nakshatra represents a specific star or constellation and has its unique qualities and characteristics.

Dashas and Mahadashas

Vedic astrology incorporates the concept of dashas and mahadashas. These are planetary periods that influence different stages of a person’s life. Consequently, these periods are believed to shape and influence various aspects of life during their respective durations. Apparently, these dashas and mahadasha also predicts the futuristic good and not so good times.

Conclusion

To conclude, I would say that many people consider astrology a valuable tool for self-reflection and personal growth. It helps us to understand the dynamics of life. We can not rely and totally depend on vedic astrology for every aspect of life. It should not be used as a substitute for critical thinking, decision-making, or medical advice. Overall, vedic astrology may provide insights and perspectives, but it is ultimately up to us to interpret and apply the information with our own values and beliefs. I would be happy to have your feedback. Have a blessed day.

References: This write up is based on the reading and research work of the reader. There are few excerpts of the conversation with Mrs. Laltesh Aggarwal, an astrologer based in new Delhi, India. She has 20+ years of experience in Vedic astrology, palmistry, vastu etc.

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