Nakshatras

Did you ever look up to the sky and wonder at the meaning of stars? Ever since ancient times, the discipline of Astrology has inferred the varying attributes of the constellations and their effects on human beings.

A constellation, or Nakshatra, is defined by the position of the moon within it. Since the moon has 27 positions in the elliptic pathway around the earth, there are a total number of 27 Nakshatras. Ome astrologers follow an earlier method of calculating 28 Nakshatras, but the 27-system is more prevalent. In mythology, the Nakshatras are sometimes symbolized as 27 sisters who are married to the moon.

The study of Nakshatras holds the following significance:

1. Personality Traits: The influence of Nakshatras on the personality of the individual is well-documented in Hindu astrology (Jyotish). Studying the position of the constellation on the birth chart of an individual reveals key insights into the weaknesses, strengths, and tendencies of that person. A deeper study helps the astrologer to suggest remedies for the improvement of the career and health of the individual.
2. Studying Compatibility: Studying the relative position of the Nakshatras on the birth charts of two individuals helps to develop insights into the compatibility aspects. This foreknowledge helps to determine the direction of relationships, whether in personal life (Marriage) or professional life (business partnerships).

The constellations are mathematically studied according to certain principles, such as the Rashi (zodiac), Padas (sections), and Muhurtas (divisions). This mathematical knowledge is combined with spiritual wisdom to draw conclusions. Each Nakshatra is said to be governed by a presiding deity. The deity is worshipped to gain blessings and overcome the malefic effects of the planets in that specific constellation.

The Planets or the Grahas are also endowed with life and are understood as heavenly personalities who govern the fates of an individual. Each Nakshatra is also associated with a ruling planet. In Vedic Jyotish, none of the cosmic bodies are understood as lifeless matter! The Nakshatras, the Planets, and the Presiding deities have distinct personalities with which they govern the dynamics of life.

Here are the mathematical calculations to determine the relative position of an individual concerning the heavenly bodies.

Padas: The position of each constellation is subdivided into four Padas or sections. As there are 27 Nakshatras, there are a total of 108 Padas. The number 108 is held extremely auspicious as it denotes all the names of Lord Mahavishnu, the one sleeping on the Shehsnaga, within whose dream (YogaNidra), the Maya of everything is held together.

Calculating the Pada helps the astrologer to determine a more specific insight into the life of the individual. Also, the position of the planets within the Padas is calculated to determine the malefic and the beneficial effects on the individual.

Vedic astrology has several Dasa systems, denoting different states of existence. The location of the moon within the Nakshatra at the moment of birth determines the MahaDasha (the Greater States) and the AntarDasha (the Lesser States) of the planets.

The Muhurta are calculated to be the auspicious moments within the ambits of a Nakshatra. These moments determine the specific time for different occasions, such as marriages, important ceremonies, and life events.

Zodiac division: The Nakshatras divide the 360 degrees of the zodiac into 27 segments, each covering approximately 13 degrees and 20 minutes. By studying the influence of the Nakshatra on the zodiac, an astrologer can derive accurate predictions about the life of an individual.

The Naksatras are named according to the major constellation. For instance, the Krittika Nakshatra indicates the Pleiades constellation. The ruling planet in Krittika is the Sun (Surya), and the presiding deity is Agni (the God of Fire).

In Astrology, a constellation, or a Nakshatra, is not merely a cosmic body made of lifeless materials. Instead, each Nakshatra is understood to carry personalities and is governed by presiding deities. Therefore, interpreting the position of a Nakshatra can eventually help the astrologer to identify the characteristics of the individual born within that star sign. You can contact us for any concerns related to Astrology.