Jyotiṣha śhāstra (Vedic Astrology)
|
Jtyoisha is the Sanskrit name for the sciences of astronomy and astrology. Jyotisha Means "Light" in Sanskrit. It refers to the physical and spiritual light projected to the Earth from the Sun, stars, and planets. The ancient Sages have revealed the science of Jyotisha so that people can gain insight (illumination) into the source and nature of life, which can be perceived inwardly as spiritual Light. All things are good, but people do not see this, because they remain bound to darkness and experience the world only through the five senses. The practice of Jyotisha allows people to see beyond the experiences of the body and to experience life through the soul body composed of spiritual Light. The physical body is bound by space and time, as is matter. The soul is beyond space and time and by karma (actions). Jyotisha does not aim to predict what actions will occur saying "life will be good" or "life will be bad" but instead to help people see their past and present actions clearly, so that the future can be determined by shifting the present responses. Jyotisha grants insight about the bonds of limited experience and prescribing spiritual remedies for transcendence.
A Vedic Astrological Chart
The energies of the planets and constellations effects all things on Earth. The tides in the ocean are effected, the weather is effected, and human consciousness is effected. It was noticed by the ancient Sages in India that by careful observation of the stars it is possible to gain insight into the likelihood of future events. The system of Vedic astronomy and astrology are immensely complex and precise. The calculations of Vedic astronomy have been remarkably precise since ancient times (so precise in fact that NASA's calculations have only begun to exceed the precision of the Vedic calculations toward the end of the 1900's). The complexity and depth of systems for analyzing the placements of the planets in Vedic astrology is even more sophisticated and complex. The science of astrology requires many years of deep study to master. With mastery of astrology comes understanding of nature and mastery over karma. Astrology provides the tools for understanding one's karma and mitigating it. In this sense it is not a system of omens or predication but a system of healing. Astrology is not well understood today, even in India, but this is the traditional application of astrology. |
Navagraha, the Nine Planets of Vedic Astrology
Today many astrologers make predications and charge large fees for consultations. They will predict negative future events. This is not a useful application of the science of Jyotisha. If a person is destined to experience misery and this cannot be avoided, what good would it do for an astrologer to foretell about tragedy. This only makes a person worry needlessly. The traditional application of astrology has been to determine the best spiritual practices to help reduce suffering in the world and to determine the most auspicious times for carrying out such remedial measures. The ancient texts on astrology state that an astrologer must be devoted to God, and devoted to serving one and all for the peace of the world. That he must be humble and pure. There are very few souls living today embodying these qualities and fewer still who have really grasped the science of astrology. Yet with a spirit of service, it is possible to learn some of the techniques of this ancient science for assisting souls in healing and increasing peace and prosperity in the world. Swamiji teaches Jyotisha to pure souls who wish to use this ancient practice to empower their selfless service to the world.
Nava Dhanya or Nine grains, offered in Navagraha Puja
We plan to post more detailed information about Vedic Astrology here and about Swamiji's system of teaching Vedic Astrology for use in healing. |
