What is Vedic Astrology ?
Vedic Astrology or Jyotish is the ancient Indian system of astrology and astronomy. The term derives from the ancient language of the Vedas, Sanskrit, where Jyothi means light or flame and Ish means God. Jyothish thus means Lord of the light. Jyotish is variously referred to in English as Hindu astrology, Indian astrology, and Vedic astrology.
The Vedic system of astrology is one of the six disciplines of Vedanga, the auxiliary disciplines of Vedic religion. As such, Jyotish has historically been part of a continuous holistic approach to living and an integral practice based on the ancient spiritual tradition of India. The foundation of jyotish is the notion of bandhu of the Vedas or scriptures, which is the connection between the microcosm and the macrocosm. Its purpose is to offer humanity a means to understand the role and expression of karma in individual and collective life. Indeed, Hindus believe that humans have fortune and misfortune in life because of karma. Many use Jyotish to understand setbacks in life due to the influence of planets and perform religious ceremonies to mitigate or avoid the pain of separation in life.
Vedic astrology also includes several nuanced sub-systems of interpretation and prediction with unique sacralized elements not found in Western astrology, such as its specific system of lunar mansions (called nakshatras, encompassing a pantheon of archetypal deities). The nakshatras are used by some to pick auspicious times of day or month for every human activity as well as to provide insight into the motivations and guiding characteristics of humans and events coming under their influence.
Nakshatra cycles based on the natal placement of the Moon or Vimshottari Dashas are developing a reputation in contemporary culture for the accuracy with which they time unfolding conditions in one’s life. When combined with an analysis of planetary transits, significant events in life become predictable.
In India, Jyotish is still commonly used to aid in important decisions in life. In Hindu culture, newborns are traditionally named based on their jyotish charts, and jyotish concepts are pervasive in the organization of the calendar and holidays as well as in many areas of life. Astrology is perceived to be vital in Indian culture, in making decisions made about marriage, opening a new business, and moving into a new home.
