In Vedic astrology, it is believed that the destiny of an individual is set by the will of the Navagraha, who are the nine cosmic guardians of fate. The Nine deities are represented by the celestial planets, including the sun and the moon. The root word ‘Graha’ means ‘to hold’ or ‘occupy,’ and Nava simply means ‘Nine.’ In this sense, the Navagraha symbolically means the nine deities that hold control of the Universe. Shani or Saturn is called ‘Graharaj’ and is thought to be the supreme deity among the nine.
The Navagraha governs the life of the individual from birth to death. All planets are understood to have positive and negative aspects. The positive aspects, or the grace, can be obtained by following a path of Dharma. The malefic aspects can be disastrous to a person’s life, bring bad luck, and create obstacles. The malefic effects can be overcome by appeasing the deity with chanting mantras and wearing gemstones.
Here are brief descriptions of the Navagraha.
- Surya: The surya or sun reveals the knowledge of the self. The impact of the sun is felt in vitality, divine guidance, and artistry. The sun guides the psyche toward enlightenment and enhances personal capacity.
- Chandra: The chandra or moon reveals the hidden aspects of the mind. The moon also governs the ability to show empathy, guiding the spirit to reveal the mystery of dreams. The moon also determines the Raashi of the individua
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- Mangala: The planet Mars is represented by the name Mangala. Mangala governs energy and boldness. The influence of Mangala can make an individual unruly or arrogant. The planet also guides the ability to face challenges in life.
- Budha: The name Budha represents the planet Mercury. The influence of Budha is evident in perceptions, ideas, and learning. The planet influences the ability of the individual to express complex concepts and process facts.
- Guru or Brihaspati: The planet Jupiter is named by Brihaspati. The influence of Brihaspati is evident in learning and growth. The planet also indicates the spiritual and reflective tendencies of the individual.
- Shukra: The planet Venus is named by Shukra. The influence of Shukra is evident in physical appearance. The planet influences the ability of the individual to have romantic relationships. Shukra also guides the prevalence of material comforts in a person’s life.
- Shani: The planet Saturn is called by Shani. Shani guides discipline and karma of a person’s life. The planet also shows challenges and restraints in an individual.
- Rahu: Rahu is a shadow planet or chaya graha, representing the north node of the moon. Rahu guides obsessions and materialistic occupations. The impact of Rahu leads a person to have multiple desires in life.
- Ketu: Like Rahu, Ketu is also a shadow planet, representing the south node of the moon. Keu indicates piety and detachment and decides the results of past conduct.
The astrologer conceives a birth chart showing the relative position of the Navagraha during the birth of a child. Consulting this birth chart, the astrologer can predict the direction of an individual’s life, the challenges he or she would face, and other traits.
An astrologer must be well-versed in studying the impact of the Navagraha on a person’s life. Counseling often involves an interpretation of malefic influences of the planets in a person’s life and the steps that should be taken to overcome these challenges. A study of the birth chart and the constant impact of the planets on a person’s life eventually leads a person to live a fruitful life.
