Hindu astrology

Ngram_of_Hindu_Vedic_Indian_Astrology

Nakshatras

Hindu astrology is a traditional system of astrology that originated in India and is also known as Vedic astrology or Jyotisha. It is one of the six auxiliary disciplines connected with the study of the Vedas, the ancient Indian scriptures. Hindu astrology is deeply rooted in Hinduism and has been practiced for thousands of years.

History[edit | edit source]

Hindu astrology has its origins in the Vedic period, with references found in the Rigveda, one of the oldest known texts. The system was further developed and codified in the classical period by sages such as Parashara and Varahamihira. The foundational texts of Hindu astrology include the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra and the Brihat Samhita.

Principles[edit | edit source]

Hindu astrology is based on the belief that the positions and movements of celestial bodies influence human life and natural phenomena. The primary tools of Hindu astrology are the zodiac, the nakshatras (lunar mansions), and the dashas (planetary periods).

Zodiac[edit | edit source]

The Hindu zodiac is divided into twelve rashis (signs), each associated with a specific constellation. These signs are:

Mesha (Aries)
Vrishabha (Taurus)
Mithuna (Gemini)
Karka (Cancer)
Simha (Leo)
Kanya (Virgo)
Tula (Libra)
Vrishchika (Scorpio)
Dhanu (Sagittarius)
Makara (Capricorn)
Kumbha (Aquarius)
Meena (Pisces)

Nakshatras[edit | edit source]

The nakshatras are 27 lunar mansions that the moon passes through during its monthly cycle. Each nakshatra has its own characteristics and is ruled by a specific deity. The nakshatras are:

Dashas[edit | edit source]

The dashas are planetary periods that influence different phases of a person's life. The most commonly used dasha system is the Vimshottari Dasha, which is based on a 120-year cycle. Each planet rules a specific period within this cycle, and the sequence is as follows: