Title: The Integral Role of Sanskrit in Jyotish Vedic Astrology
By Katya Faris, MA, MA
Introduction
Sanskrit, often heralded as the “language of the gods,” holds a position of unparalleled esteem in Indian heritage. As one of the oldest languages known to humanity, Sanskrit’s influence spans various aspects of Indian culture, religion, and science. Among the most profound applications of Sanskrit is its integral role in Jyotish Vedic astrology. This article delves into the history of Sanskrit and elucidates its crucial significance in the realm of Vedic astrology.
Coming from a Western astrology background, I admit I found Sanskrit intimidating, and I feel this is one of the reasons that perhaps Western astrologers don’t make the leap into Vedic astrology. I did study Arabic language for two years during my graduate studies, and I found that many of the words in Arabic stem from Sanskrit. This made me want to learn more, and adapting to the terminology of Jyotish was a bit easier because of this background. That being said, it took me five years of watching videos of Jyotish for me to understand enough Sanskrit terminology to be confident enough to take a course.
If you are new to Jyotish, my advice is to not let the terminology be threatening, but rather use the resources you have online to learn this sacred language. It is an ongoing process, and as an outsider you will spend the rest of your life absorbing this wisdom, but it is worth it! So, I’ve written a brief article here on how Sanskrit can be seen as an fundamental part of Jyotish, and definitions for some of the terms we use. I hope this is a launching point for you to seek out more of this sacred knowledge.
Historical Perspective
The Origins of Sanskrit
Sanskrit’s roots can be traced back to the Vedic period, around 1500-500 BCE, with the composition of the Rigveda. The language evolved through subsequent stages:
1. Vedic Sanskrit (c. 1500-500 BCE): Used primarily in the Vedas, the sacred texts of Hinduism.
2. Classical Sanskrit (c. 500 BCE onwards): Standardized by the grammarian Pāṇini in his seminal work, the Ashtadhyayi.
Preservation Through Texts
The preservation and systematization of Sanskrit can be largely attributed to oral traditions and later, written scriptures. Epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and philosophical treatises like the Upanishads and Puranas, solidified its literary and cultural prestige.
Sanskrit’s Influence on Jyotish Vedic Astrology
The Foundation of Jyotish
Jyotish, derived from the Sanskrit term “Jyoti” (light), and “Ish” (God), literally means the “Light of God”, or the “science of light.” It encompasses the study of celestial bodies and their influence on human lives, and is one of the six auxiliary disciplines—or Vedangas—connected to the Vedas. Sanskrit, as the language of the Vedas, became the natural vessel for encoding and transmitting astrological knowledge.
Astrological Treatises in Sanskrit
Some of the most revered astrological scriptures are composed in Sanskrit, including:
1. Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra: Attributed to Sage Parashara, it is considered the foundational text of Vedic astrology.
2. Jataka Parijata: A comprehensive treatise on natal astrology written by Vaidyanatha Dikshita.
3. Phaladeepika: Authored by Mantreswara, this text offers detailed insights into planetary influences and their results.
Mantras and Calculations
Sanskrit mantras are integral to Jyotish practices, invoked during rituals and for remedial measures. These mantras are believed to carry vibrational qualities that resonate with cosmic energies. Additionally, astrological calculations—be it the determination of planetary positions, the casting of horoscopes, or timing auspicious moments—are traditionally conducted using Sanskrit terminology and methods.
The Importance of Sanskrit in Predictive Accuracy
Linguistic Precision
Sanskrit’s structural precision and phonetic clarity make it an ideal medium for conveying astrological concepts. The language’s extensive vocabulary and nuanced expressions allow for detailed and accurate delineations of planetary behavior and its terrestrial effects.
Cultural and Philosophical Context
Understanding Sanskrit allows astrological practitioners to fully access and appreciate the cultural and spiritual context underlying Vedic astrology. The language bridges the gap between astrological practice and the deeper philosophical tenets of Hinduism, ensuring that interpretations remain aligned with traditional wisdom.
Transmission of Knowledge
Sanskrit serves as the primary conduit for the transmission of Jyotish knowledge across generations. Learning and mastering traditional astrological texts in their original language provides practitioners with direct access to the source material, minimizing the risk of misinterpretation that can arise through translations.
Sanskrit Terminology Use in Jyotish
Here’s a comprehensive list of common Sanskrit terminology used in Jyotish (Vedic astrology), along with their definitions:
Planets (Grahas)
1. Surya (सूर्य) – Sun: Represents the soul, ego, vitality, and authority.
2. Chandra (चन्द्र) – Moon: Represents the mind, emotions, and mother.
3. Mangal (मंगल) – Mars: Represents energy, courage, and aggression.
4. Budh (बुध) – Mercury: Represents intellect, communication, and commerce.
5. Guru/Brihaspati (गुरु/बृहस्पति) – Jupiter: Represents wisdom, knowledge, and expansion.
6. Shukra (शुक्र) – Venus: Represents love, beauty, and pleasure.
7. Shani (शनि) – Saturn: Represents discipline, delay, and perseverance.
8. Rahu (राहु) – North Node of the Moon: Represents material desires, confusion, and obsession.
9. Ketu (केतु) – South Node of the Moon: Represents spirituality, detachment, and past karma.
Signs (Rashis)
1. Mesha (मेष) – Aries
2. Vrishabha (वृषभ) – Taurus
3. Mithuna (मिथुन) – Gemini
4. Karka (कर्क) – Cancer
5. Simha (सिंह) – Leo
6. Kanya (कन्या) – Virgo
7. Tula (तुला) – Libra
8. Vrishchika (वृश्चिक) – Scorpio
9. Dhanu (धनु) – Sagittarius
10. Makara (मकर) – Capricorn
11. Kumbha (कुम्भ) – Aquarius
12. Meena (मीन) – Pisces
Houses (Bhavas)
1. Lagna (लग्न) – Ascendant/First House: Represents self, body, and appearance.
2. Dhan (धन) – Second House: Represents wealth, family, and speech.
3. Sahaj (सहज) – Third House: Represents siblings, courage, and short journeys.
4. Bandhu (बंधन) – Fourth House: Represents home, mother, and emotions.
5. Putra (पुत्र) – Fifth House: Represents children, creativity, and intelligence.
6. Ari (अरी) – Sixth House: Represents health, enemies, and service.
7. Yuvati (युवति) – Seventh House: Represents partnerships, marriage, and business.
8. Randhra (रन्ध्र) – Eighth House: Represents transformation, death, and occult.
9. Dharma (धर्म)– Ninth House: Represents religion, long journeys, and philosophy.
10. Karma (कर्म) – Tenth House: Represents career, public image, and authority.
11. Labha (लाभ) – Eleventh House: Represents gains, friends, and aspirations.
12. Vyaya (व्यय) – Twelfth House: Represents expenses, losses, and spirituality.
Aspects and Combustion (Drishti and Asta)
1. Drishti (दृष्टि) – Aspect: The influence one planet has over another or certain parts of the chart.
2. Asta (अस्त)– Combustion: When a planet is too close to the Sun and loses strength.
Divisional Charts (Vargas)
In Vedic astrology, Vargas (or divisional charts) are used to gain deeper insights into various aspects of life. Here are the 16 most important Vargas, along with their Sanskrit names and brief descriptions:
1. Rasi (D1) Chart (राशि):
– The main birth chart, representing the individual’s overall life, personality, and general fortune.
2. Hora (D2) Chart (होरा):
– Focuses on wealth and financial matters.
3. Drekkana (D3) Chart (द्रेक्काण):
– Pertains to siblings, efforts, and valor.
4. Chaturthamsa (D4) Chart (चतुर्थांश):
– Deals with property, fortune, and maternal happiness.
5. Saptamsa (D7) Chart (सप्तांश):
– Relates to children and grandchildren.
6. Navamsa (D9) Chart (नवांश):
– Considered very important, dealing with marriage, spouse, and dharma (life purpose).
7. Dashamsa (D10) Chart (दशांश):
– Focuses on career, profession, and public life.
8. Dwadashamsa (D12) Chart (द्वादशांश):
– Pertains to parents and paternal legacy.
9. Shodasamsa (D16) Chart (षोडशांश):
– Deals with vehicles, comforts, and general prosperity.
10. Vimshamsa (D20) Chart (विंशांश):
– Concerns spiritual inclination, practices, and progress.
11. Chaturvimshamsa (D24) Chart (चतुर्विंशांश):
– Focuses on education, learning, and knowledge.
12. Bhamsa or Nakshatramsa (D27) Chart (त्रिंशांश):
– Relates to strength, vitality, and overcoming difficulties.
13. Trimsamsa (D30) Chart (त्रिंशांश):
– Deals with health issues, evil influences, and hidden enemies.
14. Khavedamsa (D40) Chart (खवेदांश):
– Focuses on larger family issues, matrilineal karma, and ancestral properties.
15. Akshavedamsa (D45) Chart (अक्षवेदांश):
– Pertains to patrilineal karma, lifespan and detailed examination of overall chart.
16. Shashtyamsa (D60) Chart (षष्ट्यांश):
– Provides insights into past life karma and its influence on present life, and can be used like the D1 chart, especially for twins.
These divisional charts add depth to the main Rasi chart by focusing on specific areas of life, thereby providing a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s horoscope.
Planetary Periods (Dasha)
1. Vimshottari Dasha (विम्शोत्तरी दशा) – A system of planetary periods that tells the timing of events.
2. Antardasha (अंतरदशा) – Sub-periods within a main planetary period.
Nakshatras (Lunar Mansions)
Here is a list of the 27 Nakshatras (Lunar Mansions), including their Sanskrit names and brief descriptions:
1. Ashwini (अश्विनी) – “The Star of Transport: Sheratan”
– Represents the energy of the two celestial horsemen, symbolizing speed, agility, and healing. Ashwini nakshatra is associated with beginnings and new endeavors.
-Deity: Ashwini Kumaras, the horse-headed twins
2. Bharani (भरणी) – “The Star of Restraint: Almach”
– Symbolized by the yoni (female reproductive organ), this nakshatra signifies creation, nurturing, and care. It relates to birth and regeneration.
-Deity: Yama, the god of death and the underworld
3. Krittika (कृत्तिका) – “The Star of Fire: The Pleiades”
– Represented by a razor or flame, Krittika is associated with purification, transformation, and sharpness, often related to the processes of cutting through ignorance.
-Deity: Agni, the god of fire
4. Rohini (रोहिणी) – “The Star of Ascent: Aldebaran”
– Symbolized by a chariot, Rohini is known for beauty, creativity, and fertility. This nakshatra often relates to growth, abundance, and material prosperity.
-Deity: Prajapati (Brahma), the Creator
5. Mrigashira (मृगशीर्ष) – “The Star of Searching: Bellatrix”
– Represented by a deer’s head, Mrigashira is associated with searching, exploration, and curiosity. It signifies intellectual pursuits and restlessness.
-Deity: Soma, the Moon god
6. Ardra (आर्द्रा) – “The Star of Sorrow: Betelgeuse”
– Symbolized by a teardrop, Ardra is associated with storms and transformations, representing emotional turbulence and the power to cleanse and renew.
-Deity: Rudra, the storm god
7. Punarvasu (पुनर्वसु) – “The Star of Renewal: Castor & Pollux”
– Represented by a quiver of arrows, Punarvasu signifies renewal and regeneration. It is associated with revisiting and restoring one’s original state.
-Deity: Aditi, the mother of the gods
8. Pushya (पुष्य) – “The Star of Nourishment: Asellus Australis & Asellus Borealis”
– Represented by the cow’s udder, Pushya is known for nourishment, nurturing, and spiritual wisdom. It is considered one of the most auspicious nakshatras.
-Deity: Brihaspati (Jupiter), the priest of the gods
9. Ashlesha (आश्लेषा) – “The Clinging Star: Acubens”
– Symbolized by the coiled serpent, Ashlesha signifies hidden wisdom, secrets, and intuition. It relates to the deeper, more occult aspects of existence.
-Deity: The Nagas, the deified serpents
10. Magha (मघा) – “The Star of Power: Regulus”
– Represented by the royal throne, Magha is associated with leadership, authority, and heritage. It signifies pride, nobility, and connection with ancestors.
-Deity: The Pitris, the ancestors
11. Purva Phalguni (पूर्वफाल्गुनी) – “The Star of the Fruit of the Tree: Zosma”
– Symbolized by the front legs of a bed, Purva Phalguni signifies relaxation, creativity, and enjoyment. It relates to love, beauty, and marriage.
-Deity: Bhaga, the god of bliss & prosperity
12. Uttara Phalguni (उत्तरफाल्गुनी) – “The Star of Patronage: Denebola”
– Represented by the back legs of a bed, Uttara Phalguni is associated with service, hard work, and partnerships. It signifies stability and support.
-Deity: Aryaman, the god of philanthropy & friendship
13. Hasta (हस्त) – “The Star of the Hand: Algorab”
– Symbolized by an open hand, Hasta represents skill, dexterity, and craftsmanship. It also signifies work, creation, and harvest.
-Deity: Savitur, the Sun Aditya
14. Chitra (चित्रा) – “The Star of Opportunity: Spica”
– Represented by a bright jewel or pearl, Chitra signifies beauty, art, and design. This nakshatra is associated with creativity and craftsmanship.
-Deity: Vishvakarma, the celestial architect
15. Swati (स्वाति) – “The Self-Going Star: Arcturus”
– Symbolized by a young plant, Swati is connected to independence, flexibility, and balance. It relates to the pursuit of truth and spiritual growth.
-Deity: Vaiyu, the god of wind
16. Vishakha (विशाखा) – “The Star of Purpose: Zuben El Genubi”
– Represented by a potter’s wheel, Vishakha signifies determination, goal-oriented actions, and patience. It represents the balance of opposites.
-Deity: Indragni, Indra (chief of the gods) & Agni (the god of fire)
17. Anuradha (अनुराधा) – “The Star of Success: Dschubba (Isidis)”
– Symbolized by a lotus, Anuradha is associated with devotion, friendship, and growth. It signifies deep emotional bonds and spiritual fulfillment.
-Deity: Mitra, the Aditya of friendship & partnership
18. Jyeshtha (ज्येष्ठा) – “The Elder Star: Antares”
– Represented by an earring, Jyeshtha stands for seniority, authority, and leadership. It relates to responsibility and protection.
-Deity: Indra, the chief of the gods
19. Mula (मूला) – “The Root Star: The Galactic Center”
– Symbolized by roots, Mula signifies foundations, uprooting, and searching for true knowledge. It relates to beginnings and endings.
-Deity: Nirriti, the goddess of destruction
20. Purva Ashadha (पूर्वाषाढा) – “The Invincible Star: Kaus Australis & Kaus Borealis”
– Represented by a fan, Purva Ashadha is associated with invigoration, enthusiasm, and victory. It signifies the power to rejuvenate and inspire.
-Deity: Apah, the goddess of water
21. Uttara Ashadha (उत्तराषाढा) – “The Universal Star: Vega”
– Symbolized by an elephant’s tusk, Uttara Ashadha represents lasting achievements, endurance, and unyielding determination.
-Deity: The Vishadevas, or all of the gods
22. Shravana (श्रवण) – “The Star of Learning & Listening: Altair”
– Represented by an ear, Shravana signifies listening, learning, and communication. It relates to wisdom and dissemination of knowledge.
-Deity: Vishnu, the preserver of the Universe
23. Dhanishta (धनिष्ठा) – “The Star of Symphony: Sadalsuud”
– Symbolized by a drum, Dhanishta stands for wealth, prosperity, and musical talent. It signifies joy, festivity, and communal harmony.
-Deity: The 8 Vasus, or elements
24. Shatabhisha (शतभिषा) – “The Veiling Star: Fomalhaut”
– Represented by a hundred flowers or stars, Shatabhisha signifies healing, mystery, and protection. It relates to hidden strengths and the occult.
-Deity: Varuna, the god of water
25. Purva Bhadrapada (पूर्वभाद्रपद) – “The Scorching Star: Markab & Scheat”
– Symbolized by the front legs of a funeral cot, Purva Bhadrapada signifies spirituality, transcendence, and intense transformation.
-Deity: Ajaikapada, “the one-footed goat”, or unicorn; an aspect of Rudra, the storm god
26. Uttara Bhadrapada (उत्तरभाद्रपद) – “The Warrior Star: Algenib”
– Represented by the back legs of a funeral cot, Uttara Bhadrapada stands for depth, stability, and liberation. It signifies the balance between material and spiritual realms.
-Deity: Ahir Budhyana, the “serpent of the deep”
27. Revati (रेवती) – “The Wealthy Star: Al Pherg”
– Symbolized by a fish, Revati signifies wealth, prosperity, and nurturance. It represents the end of the journey and the transition to a higher state of being.
-Deity: Pushan, the shepherd
Understanding these Nakshatras is crucial for deepening one’s grasp of Vedic astrology, as each Nakshatra imparts unique qualities and influences in the astrological chart.
Conjunctions and Yogas (Yogas)
There are numerous yogas in Jyotish, here are a few of the most powerful:
1. Gaja Kesari Yoga (गजकेसरी योग) – Formed by the conjunction of Jupiter and Moon, considered highly auspicious.
2. Parivartana Yoga (परिवर्तन योग) – Formed when two planets exchange houses, enhancing their mutual effects.
3. Rāj Yoga (राज योग) – is derived from the Sanskrit words “Rāj” (राज), meaning “king,” and “Yoga” (योग), meaning “union” or “combination.” Thus, Rāj Yoga can be translated as “Royal Combination.”
In-Depth Definition of Raj Yoga
Rāj Yoga refers to auspicious planetary combinations in a horoscope that bestow the native with prosperity, authority, high status, success, and overall well-being. The presence of Rāj Yoga elevates an individual to positions of power, influence, and helps them attain their goals with ease.
Components of Rāj Yoga:
1. Graha (ग्रह): Planets involved in forming the yoga.
2. Bhāva (भाव): Houses in the horoscope that are activated by the involved planets.
3. Conjunction (Yuti, युति): When planets are together in the same house.
4. Aspect (Dṛṣṭi, दृष्टि): When planets influence each other by their respective aspect.
5. Exchange (Parivartana, परिवर्तन): When lords of strong houses exchange places.
Common Rāj Yogas
1. Kendra-Trikona Yoga (केन्द्र-त्रिकोण योग): Formed by the association of Kendra (1st, 4th, 7th, 10th houses) lords and Trikona (1st, 5th, 9th houses) lords.
2. Gaja-Kesari Yoga (गज-केसरी योग): Formed when Jupiter (Bṛhaspati, बृहस्पति) is in a Kendra from the Moon (Chandra, चन्द्र).
3. Dharma Karmādhipati Yoga (धर्म कर्माधिपति योग): Formed when the lords of the 9th house (Dharma) and the 10th house (Karma) are in conjunction or exchange signs.
Select Sanskrit Terminology to Understand Raj Yogas:
– Lagna (लग्न): Ascendant or rising sign.
– Kendra (केन्द्र): Angular houses (1st, 4th, 7th, 10th).
– Trikona (त्रिकोण): Trine houses (1st, 5th, 9th).
– Dṛṣṭi (दृष्टि): Planetary aspect.
– Parivartana (परिवर्तन): Exchange of houses.
– Yuti (युति): Conjunction.
Significance
The presence of strong Rāj Yogas in a horoscope indicates that the native possesses the potential for considerable success, influence, and prosperity. However, the strength and precise outcomes of these yogas depend on various factors, including the overall strength of the horoscope and the time of discovery (Dasha, दशा).
By understanding these combinations and their implications, a Jyotishi (ज्योतिषी) or astrologer can provide profound insights into the future prospects and life course of the individual.
Elements (Tatvas)
1. Prithvi (पृथ्वी) – Earth
2. Jala (जल) – Water
3. Agni (अग्नि) – Fire
4. Vayu (वायु) – Air
5. Akasha (आकाश) – Ether/Space
Aspects of Life (Karakas)
“Karaka” in Sanskrit means “indicator”; Sage Parashara has his karakas, but also Jaimini astrology has slightly different karakas. Here are the top two:
1. Atmakaraka (आत्मकारक) – Indicates the soul’s desire and primary purpose.
2. Amatyakaraka (अमत्यकारक) – Indicates career and activities in professional life.
Transits (Gochara)
1. Gochar (गोचर) – The transit or current movement of planets which influences various aspects of life based on their positions relative to the natal chart. This is one of the most common predictive techniques in Jyotish, using alongside the dashas.
Conclusion
This list covers many essential terms in Vedic astrology. Understanding these terms can greatly enhance your grasp of Jyotish and enable deeper insights into astrological charts and readings. Sanskrit’s historical legacy and linguistic attributes render it indispensable in the domain of Jyotish Vedic astrology. It is the foundational language that encodes the astronomical and spiritual dimensions of this ancient practice, providing the tools for precise calculations, profound insights, and holistic understanding. Mastery of Sanskrit not only enhances the technical accuracy of astrological predictions but also roots practitioners in the rich cultural and philosophical soil from which Jyotish has flourished, ensuring that the science of light continues to illuminate human lives with wisdom and clarity.
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