What is Vedic Astrology ?
Vedic astrology, also known as Jyotish Shastra, is an ancient system of astrology that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. "Vedic" refers to the Vedas, which are the oldest scriptures of Hinduism, and Jyotish means "science of light" or "science of heavenly bodies." Vedic astrology is deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural traditions of India.
Unlike Western astrology, which primarily relies on the position of the sun, Vedic astrology considers the positions of the moon, the planets, and other celestial bodies at the time of a person's birth. The Vedic astrological system is complex and includes a variety of techniques and calculations to create birth charts or horoscopes.
Some key features of Vedic astrology include:
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Sidereal Zodiac: Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac, which takes into account the fixed positions of the stars and constellations. This differs from the tropical zodiac used in Western astrology, which is based on the seasonal positions of the sun.
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Birth Chart (Kundli): Vedic astrology creates a birth chart, also known as a Kundli, which is a map of the positions of celestial bodies at the time of a person's birth. This chart is used to analyze various aspects of a person's life, including personality, career, relationships, and health.
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Divisional Charts: Vedic astrology uses divisional charts (Vargas) to study specific areas of a person's life in more detail. Each divisional chart represents a different aspect, such as wealth, education, marriage, etc.
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Dashas and Planetary Periods: Vedic astrology incorporates the concept of "dashas" or planetary periods, which divide a person's life into different phases ruled by specific planets. These periods are believed to influence various events and experiences during a person's life.
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Remedies: Vedic astrology often suggests remedies to mitigate the negative effects of planetary positions. These remedies can include wearing specific gemstones, performing rituals, chanting mantras, and other spiritual practices.
Vedic astrology is deeply ingrained in Indian culture, and many people in India and other parts of the world still consult Vedic astrologers for guidance on important life decisions, auspicious timings, and other matters. Like Western astrology, Vedic astrology also has its share of believers and skeptics, and its scientific validity remains a subject of debate. As with any form of astrology, individuals should approach Vedic astrology with critical thinking and discernment.