Vedic astrology, also known as Jyotish, is a traditional system of astrology that originated in ancient India. It’s deeply rooted in the Vedas, the ancient sacred texts of Hinduism. Vedic astrology uses a sidereal zodiac, which is based on the actual positions of the constellations, unlike the tropical zodiac used in Western astrology.
Vedic astrology places significant emphasis on planetary periods called "dashas," and it often involves complex calculations and detailed charts. It also considers the positions of the Moon and its phases, which are integral to predictions and interpretations in this system.
Many people find Vedic astrology insightful and useful for understanding themselves and their life paths. It’s appreciated for its depth and the way it integrates spiritual and practical aspects of life. However, as with any form of astrology, the effectiveness and accuracy of Vedic astrology can vary from person to person, and it’s often viewed through the lens of personal belief and experience.
Concept of Dashas & Vedic Astrology
The term "dasha" means “period” or “age” in Sanskrit. Each dasha represents a time period during which a particular planet exerts its influence on the individual. These periods can provide insights into the opportunities and challenges a person might face during specific times in their life
Main Types of Dashas
There are several dasha systems, but the most commonly used is the Vimshottari Dasha, which is based on a 120-year cycle divided among the nine planets in Vedic astrology. Other systems include the Chara Dasha, Ashtottari Dasha, and Yogini Dasha, each with its own methods and periods.
Vimshottari Dasha
The Vimshottari Dasha system divides a person’s life into nine planetary periods (dashas), each associated with one of the nine planets:
Sun (Surya)
Moon (Chandra)
Mars (Mangala)
Mercury (Budha)
Jupiter (Guru or Brihaspati)
Venus (Shukra)
Saturn (Shani)
Rahu (the North Node of the Moon)
Ketu (the South Node of the Moon)
Each planet has a specific period assigned to it, which varies in length:
Sun: 6 years
Moon: 10 years
Mars: 7 years
Mercury: 17 years
Jupiter: 16 years
Venus: 20 years
Saturn: 19 years
Rahu: 18 years
Ketu: 7 years
How Dashas Work
The sequence of planetary periods in Vimshottari Dasha is based on the position of the Moon in a specific Nakshatra (lunar mansion) at the time of a person’s birth. The starting point of the dasha cycle is determined by which Nakshatra the Moon occupies at birth. The sequence then follows a fixed order, and each period brings the influence of the corresponding planet.
For example, if a person’s Moon is in the Nakshatra of Krittika, which is governed by the Sun, the dasha cycle will start with the Sun’s period. The cycle then progresses through the other planets in
Sub-Periods: Antardashas
Within each main dasha, there are sub-periods known as Antardashas or Bhuktis. These are shorter periods that focus on the influence of other planets. For example, during the major period (Mahadasha) of Jupiter, one might experience an Antardasha of Mars, which can influence how the Jupiter period manifests in their life.
Interpreting Dashas
Interpreting dashas involves understanding the nature of the planet ruling the current dasha, its placement in the natal chart, aspects, and its relationships with other planets. The dashas give insights into the timing of significant life events and experiences.
Practical Application
Astrologers use dashas to forecast periods of prosperity, challenges, health issues, career changes, relationships, and other life events. By analyzing the dasha periods, astrologers can offer advice on how to navigate different phases of life.
Summary
Dashas are a fundamental component of Vedic astrology, providing a structured way to understand how planetary influences unfold over time. The Vimshottari Dasha system, with its detailed and methodical approach, helps astrologers make predictions and offer guidance based on the cycles of planetary influence.
Transits
Transits refer to the current positions of planets as they move through the zodiac and how these positions interact with the positions of planets in an individual's natal chart.
Key Points About Transits:
Current Planetary Positions: As planets move through the zodiac, they form various angles and relationships with the planets in the natal chart. These interactions can influence different areas of life.
Timing of Events: Transits help predict when significant events or changes might occur in a person’s life. For example, a transit of Jupiter (expansion and growth) over the natal Sun (identity and vitality) might indicate a period of increased opportunities and personal growth.
Types of Transits: Transits can be categorized into major and minor, depending on the duration and intensity of their influence. Major transits, such as those involving Jupiter and Saturn, typically have a longer-lasting impact, while minor transits can be shorter and less impactful.