Nakshatras are a key component of Vedic astrology, which is a traditional system of astrology from India. In Vedic astrology, Nakshatras are lunar mansions or constellations that the Moon moves through in its monthly cycle. There are 27 Nakshatras, and each one spans about 13 degrees and 20 minutes of the zodiac.
Here’s a brief overview of Nakshatras:
Ashwini: Symbolized by a horse's head, Ashwini is associated with speed, healing, and new beginnings. It is the first Nakshatra in the zodiac.
Bharani: Represented by a yoni (female genitalia), Bharani is linked with creativity, transformation, and the power of restraint.
Krittika: Symbolized by a blade or knife, Krittika is associated with sharp intellect, purification, and leadership.
Rohini: Depicted as a chariot, Rohini is connected with fertility, growth, and material comfort.
Mrigashira: Represented by a deer's head, Mrigashira signifies curiosity, exploration, and the search for truth.
Ardra: Symbolized by a teardrop, Ardra is linked with emotional intensity, transformation, and healing.
Punarvasu: Represented by a quiver of arrows, Punarvasu is associated with renewal, prosperity, and nurturing.
Pushya: Symbolized by a cow’s udder, Pushya is linked with nourishment, support, and prosperity.
Ashlesha: Depicted as a coiled serpent, Ashlesha is associated with intuition, mystery, and transformation.
Magha: Represented by a throne or royal seat, Magha is linked with authority, ancestry, and tradition.
Purva Phalguni: Symbolized by a front part of the fig tree, Purva Phalguni is associated with creativity, pleasure, and relationships.
Uttara Phalguni: Represented by the back part of the fig tree, Uttara Phalguni signifies stability, responsibility, and partnerships.
Hasta: Depicted as a hand, Hasta is linked with skill, creativity, and communication.
Chitra: Symbolized by a pearl, Chitra is associated with beauty, perfection, and artistic talent.
Swati: Represented by a sword or a flower, Swati signifies independence, flexibility, and adaptability.
Vishakha: Symbolized by a triumphal arch, Vishakha is linked with ambition, determination, and the quest for success.
Anuradha: Represented by a lotus flower, Anuradha is associated with friendship, devotion, and loyalty.
Jyeshtha: Depicted as an elder sister or a bunch of grapes, Jyeshtha signifies leadership, protection, and resilience.
Mula: Symbolized by a root, Mula is linked with exploration, transformation, and deep inquiry.
Purva Ashadha: Represented by an elephant’s tusk, Purva Ashadha signifies victory, determination, and expansion.
Uttara Ashadha: Depicted as a plowed field, Uttara Ashadha is associated with strength, discipline, and perseverance.
Shravana: Symbolized by an ear, Shravana signifies listening, learning, and guidance.
Dhanistha: Represented by a drum, Dhanistha is linked with prosperity, rhythm, and fame.
Shatabhisha: Symbolized by a hundred flowers, Shatabhisha is associated with healing, mystery, and innovation.
Purva Bhadrapada: Depicted as a funeral bed, Purva Bhadrapada signifies transformation, spirituality, and change.
Uttara Bhadrapada: Represented by a double-headed drum, Uttara Bhadrapada is linked with stability, support, and knowledge.
Revati: Symbolized by a fish, Revati signifies protection, prosperity, and nurturing.
Each Nakshatra has its own unique characteristics and influences, impacting different aspects of life based on the position of the Moon at the time of a person’s birth. Vedic astrologers use these Nakshatras to provide deeper insights into a person’s personality, tendencies, and life path.