Lesson 8--THE NAKSHATRAS

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Lesson 8--THE NAKSHATRAS

Post by RishiRahul » Wed Oct 10, 2007 2:29 pm

Nakshatra: = The constellations-The light of the stars


Meaning of Nakshatra:= naksha=night; trai= to protect; ra=Sun; na=moon.

Nakshatra with their inner light from the stars help to protect individuals from the darkness (implies forces of ignorance & death); Also known as ‘lunar mansions’ or ‘constellations’.
Rasi refers to the twelve signs under the rulership of Sun.; while Nakshatra refers to the constellations under the lordship of Moon.


Sun = The soul of the Universe. Its transit through constellations creates weather changes leading to the method adopted for the naming the deities of the nakshatra.
Ex: Sun in Ardra resulted in great summer heat. Its deity = ‘Rudra’.
Aavasastva: Are the eight illuminators from which the knowledge of Jyotish evolves.
           The first principle of Jyotish are the bodies that create all beings and guide them through various activities are the Sun, Moon, nakshatras, the pancha tatwas(5states of energy=namely Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, representing Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Jala and Vayu respectively).
           It therefore fixes the number of planetary bodies which can influence life and includes; as given above. The planets do not directly influence affairs but indirectly control them by altering the tatwa they control. Thus, the 5 planets from Mercury to Saturn are used to determine the changes in the tatwa and we do not need more or less planets as there are five known forms of existence of all matter & energy.

The basis for division of the zodiac into 27 parts is the sidereal lunar motion where the time taken for the Moon to traverse 360 degrees of the zodiac is about 27 days.  Since the motion of the Moon is causes this division, the Moon has been considered as the overlord of all the 27 divisions called Nakshatra. Each nakshatra measures14 degrees 13’ degrees 20” of arc and are reckoned from the first point of Aries.

Nakshatra Pada: =
Dharma (the natural principles of truth governing the entire creation) is ‘Chatuspada’ or 4 footed; each of these Nakshatra are further divided into four parts, each measuring 3degrees20’ of arc and called a ‘pada’ or foot. Nine pada15 comprising parts of three nakshatra measure a sign of 30 degrees. The four pada of every nakshatra, in the regular order, indicate the four ayana (i.e. goals of life).

1st. Pada: The first pada of every nakshatra governs Dharma i.e. the principles/ ideals which are the duties of the Kshatriya’s or warrior class. This pada falls in any of the three fiery signs called Dharma Trikona (Aries, Leo or Sagittarius) in the Navamsa indicating this goal/objective.

2nd Pada: The second pada of every nakshatra governs Artha i.e. the Principles/ ideals which are the duties of the Vaishya/trading community. This pada falls in any of the three earthy signs called Artha Trikona (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) is the navamsa.

3rd Pada: The third pada of every nakshatra governs Kama i.e. the principles/ ideals which are the duties of the Sudras/working class. Kama means desires of every kind and implies sense gratification. This pada falls in either of the airy signs called Kama trikona (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) in the navamsa.

4th Pada: The fourth pada of every nakshatra governs moksha i.e. principles/ ideals of religiosity/ spirituality which are the duties of the Brahmin/priestly class. Moksha means emancipation from the cycle of rebirth. This pada falls in either of the water signs called moksha Trikona (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) in the navamsa.
This is the ayana or Goal and should not be confused with caste which is different. Similarly the nakshatra themselves are grouped under the 4 goals:  Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. The nakshatra ayana indicates the profession or direction of activity in the physical/mundane level whereas the pada indicates the personal goal. For example, if the planet is in the 4th pada of Satabhisaj, from Table – We find that the nakshatra ayana is ‘Butcher’ whereas the pada ayana is
14 3600 = 13020’ X 27
15 3020’ X 9 = 300
‘moksha’, indicating a spiritual person, who was a butcher by profession (activity in mundane world) but was very learned, detached and spiritual. This Nakshatra and pada ayana indicate respectively, the external and internal goals.
Table of Nakshatra, pada & ayana
No Name Pada From To Star Pada
1 Aswini 1 0:00:00 3:20:00 3:20 Dharma Dharma
2 3:20:00 6:40:00 Artha
3 6:40:00 10:00:00 Kama
4 10:00:00 13:20:00 Moksha
2 Bharini 1 13:20:00 16:40:00 Artha Dharma
2 16:40:00 20:00:00 Artha
3 20:00:00 23:20:00 Kama
4 23:20:00 26:40:00 Moksha
3 Krittika 1 26:40:00 30:00:00 Kama Dharma
2 30:00:00 33:20:00 Artha
3 33:20:00 36:40:00 Kama
4 36:40:00 40:00:00 Moksha
4 Rohini 1 40:00:00 43:20:00 Moksha Dharma
2 43:20:00 46:40:00 Artha
3 46:40:00 50:00:00 Kama
4 50:00:00 53:20:00 Moksha
5 Mrigasira 1 53:20:00 56:40:00 Moksha Dharma
2 56:40:00 60:00:00 Artha
3 60:00:00 63:20:00 Kama
4 63:20:00 66:40:00 Moksha
6 Ardra 1 66:40:00 70:00:00 Kama Dharma
2 70:00:00 73:20:00 Artha
3 73:20:00 76:40:00 Kama
4 76:40:00 80:00:00 Moksha
7 Punarvasu 1 80:00:00 83:20:00 Artha Dharma
2 83:20:00 86:40:00 Artha
3 86:40:00 90:00:00 Kama
4 90:00:00 93:20:00 Moksha
8 Pusya 1 93:20:00 96:40:00 Dharma Dharma
2 96:40:00 100:00:00 Artha
3 100:00:00 103:20:00 Kama
4 103:20:00 106:40:00 Moksha
9 Aslesha 1 106:40:00 110:00:00 Dharma Dharma
2 110:00:00 113:20:00 Artha
3 113:20:00 116:40:00 Kama
4 116:40:00 120:00:00 Moksha
10 Magha 1 120:00:00 123:20:00 Artha Dharma
2 123:20:00 126:40:00 Artha
3 126:40:00 130:00:00 Kama
4 130:00:00 133:20:00 Moksha
11 P.Phalguni 1 133:20:00 136:40:00 Kama Dharma
2 136:40:00 140:00:00 Artha
3 140:00:00 143:20:00 Kama
4 143:20:00 146:40:00 Moksha
12 U.Phalguni 1 146:40:00 150:00:00 Moksha Dharma
2 150:00:00 153:20:00 Artha
3 153:20:00 156:40:00 Kama
4 156:40:00 160:00:00 Moksha
13 Hasta 1 160:00:00 163:20:00 Moksha Dharma
2 163:20:00 166:40:00 Artha
3 166:40:00 170:00:00 Kama
4 170:00:00 173:20:00 Moksha
14 Chitra 1 173:20:00 176:40:00 Artha Dharma
2 176:40:00 180:00:00 Artha
3 180:00:00 183:20:00 Kama
4 183:20:00 186:40:00 Moksha
15 Swati 1 186:40:00 190:00:00 Kama Dharma
2 190:00:00 193:20:00 Artha
3 193:20:00 196:40:00 Kama
4 196:40:00 200:00:00 Moksha
16 Visakha 1 200:00:00 203:20:00 Dharma Dharma
2 203:20:00 206:40:00 Artha
3 206:40:00 210:00:00 Kama
4 210:00:00 213:20:00 Moksha
17 Anuradha 1 213:20:00 216:40:00 Dharma Dharma
2 216:40:00 220:00:00 Artha
3 220:00:00 223:20:00 Kama
4 223:20:00 226:40:00 Moksha
18 Jyestha 1 226:40:00 230:00:00 Artha Dharma
2 230:00:00 233:20:00 Artha
3 233:20:00 236:40:00 Kama
4 236:40:00 240:00:00 Moksha
19 Moola 1 240:00:00 243:20:00 Kama Dharma
2 243:20:00 246:40:00 Artha
3 246:40:00 250:00:00 Kama
4 250:00:00 253:20:00 Moksha
20 P.Ashadha 1 253:20:00 256:40:00 Moksha Dharma
2 256:40:00 260:00:00 Artha
3 260:00:00 263:20:00 Kama
4 263:20:00 266:40:00 Moksha
21 U.Ashadha 1 266:40:00 270:00:00 Moksha Dharma
2 270:00:00 273:20:00 Artha
3 273:20:00 276:40:00 Kama
4 276:40:00 280:00:00 Moksha
22 Sravana 1 280:00:00 283:20:00 Artha Dharma
2 283:20:00 286:40:00 Artha
3 286:40:00 290:00:00 Kama
4 290:00:00 293:20:00 Moksha
23 Dhanista 1 293:20:00 296:40:00 Dharma Dharma
2 296:40:00 300:00:00 Artha
3 300:00:00 303:20:00 Kama
4 303:20:00 306:40:00 Moksha
24 Satabhisaj 1 306:40:00 310:00:00 Dharma Dharma
2 310:00:00 313:20:00 Artha
3 313:20:00 316:40:00 Kama
4 316:40:00 320:00:00 Moksha
25 P.Bhadrapad 1 320:00:00 323:20:00 Artha Dharma
2 323:20:00 326:40:00 Artha
3 326:40:00 330:00:00 Kama
4 330:00:00 333:20:00 Moksha
26 U.Bhadrapad 1 333:20:00 336:40:00 Artha Dharma
2 336:40:00 340:00:00 Artha
3 340:00:00 343:20:00 Kama
4 343:20:00 346:40:00 Moksha
27 Revati 1 346:40:00 350:00:00 Moksha Dharma
2 350:00:00 353:20:00 Artha
3 353:20:00 356:40:00 Kama
4 356:40:00 360:00:00 Moksha


The Demi Gods
Nakshatra are considered as the wives of the Moon god, as they were created due to lunar movement. Their hidden or latent powers (abilities) are symbolized by the weapon of the demi-god or deities presiding over each nakshatra, their goals and strengths etc.  

Rohini nakshatra= associated with the knowledge of creation and growth. The weapon of its deity, Prajapati is a rosary which means that the said nakshatra has abilities associated with mantra and the science of creation from sound syllables which is in line with the age old saying that all creation came from sound..

Aswini nakshatra=associated with astrology.  Narayana taught astrology to the the deity,Ashwini Kumar. Out of the 5 Pandavas in Mahabharata the youngest 2 had his blessings; one an adept astrologer and the other an adept horseman.

Deities of Nakshatra
No. Constellation Degrees Deity Meaning Shape/Symbol
1 Aswini =0 - 13:20 Aries
Dasra (Aswini Kumar)
the horsemen horses head

2 Bharini 13:20 -26:40 Aries
Yama the bearers female sexual organ

3 Krittika 26:40 - Aries10:00 Taurus
Agni razor/cutter dagger/razor

4 Rohini 10:00 -23:20 Taurus
Pitamaha (Brahma) ruddy cow, red, growing chariot

5 Mrigasira 23:20- Taurus 6:40 Gemini
Chandra (Moon God)dear or antelope's head,head or a deer

6 Ardra 6:40 -20:00 Gemini
Isa (Rudra/Shiva) the moist tear drop, gem

7 Punarvasu 20:00 - Gemini 3:20 Cancer
Aditi return of the light and goods, quiver/ house, bow

8 Pusya 3:20 -16:40 Cancer
Jeeva (Brihaspati) nourisher, flower, the best teat of cow, arrow, flower

9 Aslesha 16:40 -30:00 Cancer
Ahi (Sarpa devata) entwine, embrace, intimate connection wheel, serpent

10 Makha 00 - 13:20Leo
Pitri (Manes) beneficent, mighty throne, palanquin, royal court

11 Poorva Phalguni 13:20 -26:40 Leo
Bhaga previous red one legs of a cot, stage

12 Uttara Phalguni Leo 26:40 – 10:00 Virgo
Aryama later red one bed, legs of a cot

13 Hasta 10:00 -23:20 Virgo
Arka hand closed hand

14 Chitra 23:20 – 6:40 Virgo
Libra
Tvastha brilliant,distinguished pearlNo. Constellation Degrees Deity Meaning Shape/Symbol
15 Swati 6:40 -20:00 Libra
Marut (Storm God a form of Vayu) independent, sword coral, sapphire

16 Visakha Libra 20:00 - 3:20 Scorpio
Shakragni branched, forked branches, leaf decked triumphal gate, potters wheel

17 Anuradha 3:20 - 16:40 Scorpio
Mitra subsequent success, following Radha bali (heap of rice), umbrella

18 Jyestha 16:40 - 30:00 Scorpio
Vaasavah (Indra) the eldest ear ring, umbrella, talisman

19 Moola 00 - 13:20 Sagittarius
Nirriti (Rakshasa) root, commencement tail of lion, crouching line

20 Poorvasadha 13:20 -26:40 Sagittarius
Jala (Varuna) earlier victory hand fan, winnowing basket, tusk, square

21 Uttarasadha Sagittarius 26:40 10:00 Capricorn
Vishwe deva later victory elephant tusk, square

22 Sravana 10:00 - 23:20 Capricorn
Govinda famous, hearing 3 footprints, arrow

23 Dhanista Capricorn 23:20 - 6:40 Aquarius
Vasava very rich, very swift mridanga (drum)

24 Satabhisaj 6:40 -20:00 Aquarius
Varuna 100 medicines or doctors circle, flower

25 Poorvabhadrapad Aquarius 20:00 - 3:20 Pisces
Ajapada earlier auspicious one double faced man, stage, machan, legs of a cot

26 Uttarabhadrapad 3:20 -16:40 Pisces
Ahirbudhanya later auspicious one last bed, legs of a cot two joined men

27 Revati 16:40 -30:00 Pisces
Poosha rich, wealthy mridanga (drum), fish



Nakshatra Guna –Energy levels
Starting from Aswini

Rajas or high energy(Brahma)= a passionate disposition or creation    
                                                  --movable.
Tamas or low energy(Shiva)= depression/dissolution and death—fixed.
Satwa or balanced energy(Vishnu)= controlled ,sustenance==dual.




Mentality of Nakshatras-Mental attitude

Deva =  dominate and are great enjoyers. Brahma advises self restraint.

Rakshasa = fierce ones, struggling to achieve something to prove superiority, can be cruel and conceited in personal matters. Brahma advises ‘daya’ or mercy as spiritual learning.

Manushya =  greedy, forever crying for their needs and clinging to their possessions. Brahma advises ‘daana’ i.e. to give or donate as a spiritual message.



Sex of Nakshatras  - sexual attitude
Opposite sexes attract and the neutral sexes are detached.

1)Male   2) Female  3) Neuter




28 Nakshatras
Used in the Kalachakra and Sarvatobhadra Chakra besides many other nakshatra dasa.

Moon requires 27 days 7 hrs. and 38 min to complete a transit of the sidereal zodiac. The Vedic seers devised a wonderful way to accommodate this additional time of 7 hr 38 minutes by defining an extra nakshatra called ‘Abhijit’, which was used to define spirituality or Vishnu. The muhurta associated with this nakshatra rules at midday and all evils are destroyed. The Sun at midday, in any sign, is in the tenth house and hence, this nakshatra was placed in Capricorn, the tenth house of the natural zodiac between the 21st Nakshatra Uttarasadha and the next Sravana.
The span of Abhijit was defined as comprising the last quarter (3 degrees 20’) of Uttarasadha and the first one-fifteen the part ( 0 degrees 53’20”) of Sravana. Thus, the Span is 4 degrees 13’20” from Capricorn 6 degrees 40’ to
10 degrees 53’20”.  This gives the 28 Nakshatra.

The deity of the Abhijit nakshatra is Hari, the undefeated Lord.


Hari Shaktis of the Nakshatras
Powers of the Devatas or the deities ruling the
Nakshatras.

Ashwini = governed by the Ashwins, the twin horsemen, having the power to quickly reach things (shidhra vyapani shakti). It is quick in giving aid and energy, has the ability to bring about fast, radical or miraculous cures as well as rejuvenation. The Ashwins are forces of ‘Prana’, the life-force, which is quick in its action to stimulate, help, and initiate a new level of activity.

Bharani= ruled by ‘Yama’, the God of Death. It has the power to take things away or ‘apabharani shakti’. It shows the removal of life from the body to carry the soul to the realm of the ancestors.
It guides the soul to the astral plane, where it can experience the result of its karma from the present life and prepare for the life to come. ‘Yama’ is a figure of discipline and sacrifice.

Krittika=ruled by ‘Agni’, the God of  sacred Fire. It has the power to burn. Its basis above is heat and below is light, resulting in burning or purification. It burns  negativity, purifies what is mixed, and cooks or prepares that which is not yet ripe. Purification results through destruction of impurity. It is also the fire that cooks our food and so there is a nourishing side to its effects as well. It is childlike by nature.

Rohini= ruled by ‘Prajapati’, the Creator. Its power is growth (rohana shakti). Its basis above is the plants and below are the waters, resulting in  creation. It allows growth and creation at all levels, giving good fertility.
It also evokes some degree of jealousy because others may resent that a person gains such abundance. It can increase desire. These being side affects to prosperity.

Mrigashira= ruled by ‘Soma’, the God of the Moon or the immortal nectar. It gives fulfillment (prinana shakti). Its basis above is extension and below is weaving (producing clothing), resulting in a more enjoyable world. It fills or covers with joy, and is like a beautiful cloth to make our lives more attractive. Soma is a great enjoyment that is won, conquered, bought or stolen, so it is not found easily.

Ardra= ruled by ‘Rudra’, the fiery form of Lord Shiva who represents thunder. Its power is effort (yatna shakti), particularly for making gains in life. Its basis above is hunting or searching and below is reaching the goal, bringing achievement. It arouses us to greater effort in life. This struggle can bring great rewards through persistence and a degree of luck. It is the hunter and the wielder of the bow, suggesting placing of the arrow and hitting the target. For it should have a good aim, as well as strength to shoot. It is also the lord of wild animals.

Punarvasu= ruled by ‘Aditi’, the great Mother Goddess. Its power is the ability to gain wealth or substance (vasutva prapana shakti). Its basis above is the wind or air and below is wetness or rain, bringing revitalization of the plants. It brings the return of energy and vitality, like the return of the monsoon rains after the dry season. It causes our creative growths and inspirations to be renewed. Aditi is the Earth Goddess who grants all abundance and gives birth to all Gods.

Pushya=ruled by ‘Brihaspati’, the God of Divine wisdom. Its power is the ability to create spiritual energy
(brahmavarchasa shakti). Its basis above is sacrificial worship. Its basis is the worshipper, resulting in the creation of spiritual energy. It increases our good karma and good efforts. The value of this Nakshatra for religious and spiritual practice is emphasized. Brihaspati is the lord of speech, particularly prayer, meditation and of all forms of worship, its indications are all in harmony with his functions.

Aslesha= ruled by the serpent God. It has the power to inflict with poison (visasleshana shakti). Its basis above is the approach of the serpent, and below is trembling and agitation, resulting in destruction of the victim. It paralyzes the enemy, which is helpful if we have enemies. It can give an inimical temperament. Also depends on how the energy of this Nakshatra is used. Serpents can give practical wisdom through which one can overcome enemies and obstacles.

Magha= ruled by the Ancestors. It gives the power to leave the body (tyage kshepani shakti). Its basis above is mourning, and below is leaving the body,  bringing death. It causes a change of state or condition - a kind of death, or the end of a cycle. Its condition is similar to that of Bharani which indicates the movement of the soul away from the body. The higher meaning of this Nakshatra is relative to ancestors including ancestral pride and power.

Purva Phalguni= ruled by ‘Aryaman’, the God of contracts and unions. It gives the power of procreation (prajanana shakti). Its basis above is the wife or female partner, and below is the male or masculine partner, bringing about the creation of the fetus. It brings about union and procreation at all levels, following some official agreement or marriage and is takes part in the creation of a new family or social order. Aryaman governs such productive alliances and also arranges the marriage festival.

Uttara Phalguni =ruled by ‘Bhaga’, the God of happiness. Its power is the giving of accumulation or prosperity (chayani shakti) through marriage or union. Its basis above is the wealth gained from ones own family and below is the wealth gained from ones partner and her family, resulting in the accumulation of wealth. It brings the prosperity that results through union. It indicates both the need for union and organizing the resources gained through it. ‘Bhaga’ is also the God of wealth and brings about the right apportionment of resources.
While Purvaphalguni show marriage, UttarPhalguni shows the setting up of the household for the newly married couple.

Hasta= ruled by ‘Savitar’, the creative form of the Sun God. Its power is the ability to gain what we are seeking and place it in our own hands (hasta sthapaniya agama shakti). Its basis above is the seeking of gain, and below is the process of gaining, results in giving what one wishes to gain in ones own hand. It gives the ability to achieve goals (usually creative by nature) in a complete and immediate manner. ‘Savitar’ is the creative will that builds up the universe with all of its beauty. His productions are most wonderful.

Chitra=ruled by ‘Twashtar’, the cosmic craftsman. Its power is ability to accumulate merit in life (punya cayani shakti). Its basis above is the law, and below is the truth, resulting in giving the worker  the ability to gain honor in work.
Chitra lets us to gain the fruits of good karma through righteousness and has a highly spiritual energy and effect. Twashtar creates enduring forms, like a blacksmith, and also produces variety and abundance.

Swati=ruled by ‘Vayu’, the God of Wind. It gives the power to scatter like the wind (pradhvamsa shakti). Its basis above is moving in various directions, and below is change of form, resulting in transformation. It causes things to move and scatter, and may be destructive unless we learn how to use it for removing negativity. These indications are basically of the Winds, which has both healing and destructive powers.

Vishakha=ruled by ‘Indra’ and ‘Agni’, and represent the powers of heat and lightning in the Atmosphere, and gives the power to achieve the many fruits of life (vyapana shakti). Its basis above is plowing or cultivation, and below
is the harvest, giving us the fruit of the harvest. It provides the effort to achieve goals abundantly through time, like a farmer ploughing his field. It is not known to give immediate results but perhaps greater long term gains. ‘Indra’ and ‘Agni’ here are agriculture Gods showing the ripening effect of heat, rain and seasonal changes.

Anuradha= ruled by ‘Mitra’, the Divine Friend. It gives the power of worship (radhana shakti). Its basis above is ascension, and below is descension, resulting in gaining honor and abundance. It gives balance in relationship, by honoring others and seeking ourselves to be honorable, through which fame and recognition is achieved. It indicates compassion, devotion and right relationship.

Jyeshta= ruled by ‘Indra’, the ruler of the Gods. It has the power to rise or conquer, and gain courage in battle (arohana shakti). Its basis above is attack and below is defense, resulting in becoming a hero. It allows us to reach the summit of personal powers but it requires great courage and effort. It shows karmic battles that require our complete energy in order to overcome. Indra is the king of the Gods who must eventually alone and single handed defeat the dragon, the most fearful of serpents. Though his position looks hopeless, he wins by courage and cunning, not by strength of arms.

Mula= ruled by ‘Nirriti’, the Goddess of destruction. It has the power to ruin or destroy. Its basis above is breaking things apart (barhana shakti), and below is crushing things, resulting in gaining the power to destroy. It allows us to destroy their root, by bringing afflictions, as long as they don't overcome us. It shows that destruction in necessary to create something. ‘Nirriti’ is the denial of Lakshmi (abundance and prosperity). She is Kali or the negative effect of time from which we must protect ourselves or use to our advantage.

Purvashadha= ruled by the Waters (Apas). Its power is in invigorating (varchograhana shakti). Its basis above is strength, and below is connection, resulting in gaining lustre. It brings purification and regeneration, like the energy gained through taking a bath in water, providing additional energy for our efforts. These effects flow through the waters, which are heavenly in nature and can provide inner purification.

Uttarashadha=ruled by the Universal Gods (Vishwa Deva). Its power is granting an unchallengeable victory (apradhrisya shakti). Its basis above is the strength to win, and below is the goal that one can win, resulting in giving unchallenged victory. It brings one to the summit of power, support and recognition, not entirely through personal efforts (which is more the case in Jyeshta) but appropriate alliances and support of the Gods. The victory is dependant on a righteous cause, beneficial to all, which we are helping in. Here we fight more as the leader of an army.

Shravana= ruled by ‘Vishnu’, the pervador. Its power is that of connection (samhanana shakti). Its basis above is seeking, and below are the paths, resulting in connecting all things together. It enables us to link people together by connecting them to their appropriate paths in life, and requires receptivity and listening, resulting in understanding and aspiration. Vishnu, with his three strides, link together the 3 worlds of Earth, Atmosphere and Heaven, connecting all creatures with the Gods.

Dhanishta=ruled by the ‘Vasus’, the Gods of abundance. Its power gives abundance and fame (khyapayitri shakti). Its basis above is birth, and below is prosperity, resulting in giving the power to bring people together. It allows us to bring together the resources of people. In this way it builds upon the connections of ‘Shravana’, making them more practical. The ‘Vasus’ are the deities of the Earth that give abundance on the earthly plane, and are manifestations of ‘Agni’ or the sacred fire and show the gifts that it can dispense.

Shatabhishak =ruled by ‘Varuna’, the God of the cosmic waters. It has the power of healing (bheshaja shakti). Its basis above is extension or pervasion over all, and below is the support for all, resulting in a world free of calamity. It counters difficult karmas through Divine grace and repentance. These include not only diseases but difficulties of all kind, including sin. While Ashwini gives more immediate cures, Shatabhishak brings about a healing crisis leading to revitalization. Varuna is a God of sin, debts, injury and disease, who cannot only bring these calamities upon us but can remove them from us, if we propitiate him sincerely.

Purva Bhadra= ruled by ‘Aja Ekapad’, the one-footed serpent. It gives the fire to raise a spiritual person up in life (yajamana udyamana shakti). It gives what is good for all people is its basis above and what is good for the Gods is its basis below, resulting in the entire world to be supported. It grants universal view through internal purification, which raises our spiritual aspiration in life and takes us out of the domain of selfish behavior. It is the cosmic or celestial form of ‘Agni’ or the sacred fire. It raises our spiritual aspiration in life.

Uttara Bhadra= ruled by ‘Ahir Budhnya’, the serpent of the depths of the Atmosphere. Its power is the bringing of the rain (varshodyamana shakti). Its basis above is the raining clouds, and below, in the growing of the plants, resulting in gaining of stability. It grants growth and prosperity in a broad way, benefiting the entire world, making it very auspicious. It is the benefic serpent who brings the rain, connecting us with the creative powers at the foundations of the world.

Revati= ruled by ‘Pushan’, the nourishing form of the Sun God. It has the power of nourishment symbolized by milk (kshiradyapani shakti). Its basis above is the cows, and below are the calves, resulting in nourishment to the entire world. It creates abundance by providing proper nourishment, and helps all people in their efforts. It is the lord of cattle and paths; it leads, protects and gathers the herd in their movement, particularly to new pastures, thus also protects the soul in its journey to the next world.


Fruits of Worshipping Each Nakshatra

Nakshatras reflect certain wishes or desires which affect the natives born under them. They are reflected by the deities of the nakshatras through their wishes.

(1)The Ashwins desired to be possessed of good hearing and not be deaf. One who makes the appropriate offering to the Ashwins (Ashwini) becomes good in hearing and will not become deaf.
Ashwini Nakshatra grants the power of hearing on both outer and inner levels; thus it relates to secret knowledge and miraculous powers.

(2)Yama desired to win the lordship of the ancestors. One making appropriate offering to Yama (Bharani) wins the lordship of the ancestors and wins the lordship of his peers.
Bharani nakshatra wants to be respected by their elders and peers.

(3) Agni desired to be the eater of food for the Gods. One who offers to Agni and Krittika the offering becomes an eater of food for mortals. Agni as fire both cooks and digests food.
Krittika nakshatra provides nourishment and the power to digest it as well. Natives born under it would like to provide for others in this way.

(4) Prajapati created creatures and left them, but remembered Rohini out of them. He desired, that  Rohini should approach him for uniting. One who makes the appropriate offering to Prajapati (Rohini nakshatra) his beloved approaches him and he unites with her.
Rohini nakshatra bestows love, passion and sexuality which is fertile and creative, but not inclined to tolerate limits, due to which it is very productive for mst but can draw jealously upon it.

(5) Soma desired to win the lordship of plants. One making such offering to Soma (Mrigashira) would win the lordship of the plants and their peers.
Those born under Mrigashira nakshatra wants to provide the Soma, delight or enjoyment to their peers, and can be exhilarating and entertaining leaders, shining onto others like the Moon. Thus they usually do best with a following of friends.

(6) Rudra desired to be the lord of the animals. One who would make such an offering to Rudra (Ardra nakshatra) would become the lord of the animals.
Rudra is the lord of the wild animals and all things wild/strange/disturbing.  Ardra nakshatra, thus, needs to seek control over them.

(7) In the beginning our Earth did not have any growth; but desired to produce herbs and trees. Whoever makes such offering to Aditi (Punarvasu nakshatra), would produce progeny and cattle.
Punarvasu Nakshatra is creative by nature. It is ruled by the Earth as the World Mother Aditi. It gives the ability to create in form and structure. Natives born under it like to produce things in a maternal way.

(8) Brihaspati desired to possess the splendor of spiritual knowledge." Whoever offering such to Brihaspati ( Pushya Nakshatra) would gain the splendor of spiritual knowledge.
Pushya connects us with spiritual knowledge, but also religion, ritual and morality in general. The evil is overcome by good through it.

(9) When the Gods and the Demons were at war, the Gods made an offering to Aslesha, which drove away the Demons. One who makes the appropriate offering to the Serpent God(Aslesha nakshatra), drives away his hateful opponents. Through Aslesha one can defeat enemies, but gains the poison of the serpent to use on others.
One born under Aslesha make powerful warriors with powerful weapons.

(10) The Fathers desired to flourish in the world of the ancestors. One who is able to offer appropriately to the Fathers (Magha nakshatra) flourishes in the world of the ancestors. It gives lasting fame through the generations.
Magha nakshatra natives seek a high reputation for themselves, a kind of kingly or paternal status.

(11)Bhaga desired to partake the best potion of the Gods." One who makes the such offering to Bhaga (Phalguni nakshatra), gains the best potion among his peers.
Natives born under Purva Phalguni seek the best potion for themselves. They become connoisseurs in life, seeking the subtle and refined.

(12)Aryaman desired to become the lord of the animals. One who makes the appropriate offering to Aryaman (Phalguni nakshatra) becomes the lord of the animals.
Natives born under Uttara Phalguni seek colleagues and followers in order to help them in their causes, which are generally noble in nature (at least to them).

(13) Savitar desired the Gods to place their faith in him. One who makes the appropriate offering to Savitar (Hasta nakshatra) becomes the Sun among his peers.
People born under Hasta wants to be believed in and want others to have faith in them. They regard themselves capable of great achievements and can serve to rally and inspire people around them.

(14) Twashtar (a form of prajapati) desired to gain a wonderful progeny. One who makes the appropriate offering to Twashtar (Chitra nakshatra) would gain a wonderful progeny.
Chitra nakshatra  has great creative powers, giving splendor, multiplicity and abundance.

(15) The Wind desired to win the freedom to move in all the worlds. One who makes the appropriate offering to the Wind (Swati nakshatra) gains the freedom to move as he wishes in all the worlds.
Swati Nakshatra natives possess a similar desire. They do not like to be held back or tied down, and would like to travel wherever they would like and whenever they desire.

(16) Indra and Agni desired to gain the greatest splendor among the Gods. He  who is able to make the appropriate offering to Indra and Agni ( Vishakha nakshatra) would gain the greatest splendor among his peers.
Vishakha nakshatra is competitive, having fiery and lightning like energy and effects. Its natives seek power and recognition.

(17) Mitra desired to be regarded as a friend in all the worlds. One who makes the appropriate offering to Mitra (Anuradha nakshatra) become regarded as a friend in all these worlds.
Natives born under Anuradha nakshatra would like to be friends with everyone; being emotionally sensitive, place the welfare of others over their own.

(18) Indra desired to gain supremacy among the gods. One who can make the appropriate offering to Indra (Jyeshta nakshatra), is able to gain supremacy among his peers.
Natives born under Jyeshta nakshatra seeks to be the best, but by their own effort, as individuals, and not by relying on others. They often do their best when left alone.

(19) Prajapati desired to find the root of progeny. One who makes the appropriate offering to Prajapati (Mula nakshatra), gains the root of progeny.
Mula is also ruled by Prajapati, the Creator, who also rules Rohini.
Mula nakshatra natives have more creative energy. It means root, and gives the root of progeny or strong creative powers, somewhat like Rohini. In the negative sense in the Vedas, Mula ruled by Nirriti takes away the root of progeny or causes the loss of the first child.

(20) The Water Goddesses desired to gain the sea by making a wish. One who makes proper offering to the Water Goddesses (Purvashadha nakshatra), gains the sea through a wish.
Natives under Purvashadha nakchatra seeks connections like water desiring to reach the ocean. It is a creative, nurturing and healing Nakshatra.

(21) The Universal Gods desired to win a victory that can never be lost." One who makes the proper offering to the Universal Gods (Uttarashadha nakshatra), gains a victory which can never be lost.
Uttarashadha nakshatra is competitive, and causes us to seek great achievements, but in alliance with others, in great partnerships, organizations and associations. One succeeds by virtue of connections.

(22) Vishnu desired to hear people say good words about him, and did not want to attract any bad regard. One who makes the appropriate offering to Vishnu (Shravana nakshatra), hears good words about himself and does not attract any bad regard.
Those born under Shravana nakshatra are concerned about what people say about them and their public reputation. They strive to keep themselves in good repute, and are sensitive about the opinions of others.

(23) The Vasus desired to revolve around the summit of the Gods. One who makes proper offering to the Vasus (Dhanishta nakshatra, gains the summit among his peers.
Dhanista nakshatra rule over the material and worldly splendors. They gain through high association.

(24) Varuna desired to be firm and steady. One who makes the appropriate offering to Varuna ( Shatabhishak nakshatra), become firm and steady, which also implies freedom from disease and debility.
Shatabhishak nakshatra gives healing and energy.

(25) Aja Ekapat desired to gain radiance and the splendor of spiritual knowledge. One who makes proper offering to Aja Ekapat (Purva Bhadra nakshatra) gains radiance and the splendor of spiritual knowledge.
Purva Bhadra nakshatra has vast spiritual potential, and can give more insight than Pushya. It gives perception, spiritual fire, dash of the soul and awakens us to our higher spiritual potential and power in life.

(26)Ahir Budhnya desired to find a foundation." One who is able to offer to Ahir Budhnya (Uttara Bhadra nakshatra), gains a foundation.
Uttara Bhadra nakshatra grants a firm foundation in life, connecting us with the sea of vitality, the serpent that dwells in the middle of the sea.

(27) Pusha desired to become the lord of the animals. One who makes proper offering to Pusha (Revati nakshatra), becomes the lord of the animals. It gives lordship over domestic cattle, richness of harvest and fertile fields. Natives born under Revati nakshatra are fond of the good things of life, being in harmony with nature.

vivek and RishiRahul

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Post by rajitha » Wed Jan 09, 2008 9:20 pm

Nice to learn about the stories behind the Nakshatras.
Thanks Rahulji.

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Abt nakhatra...query

Post by achavan » Thu Mar 27, 2008 12:28 pm

Namste Rahulji,

i read the article of nakshatra.
very huge info...i was not aware of it.

i hv a query regarding nakshatra.
every human being has a nakshatra and rashi.....so is it like every human being behaves like his nakshtra?

for example if one has Ashlesha nakshatra ....does he behave like sarpa?
i mean not practically....but his nature is like sarpa?

hopeing for satisfactory info.

rgds,

--achavan
--

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Post by RishiRahul » Fri Mar 28, 2008 3:32 pm

Namashkaar achavanji,

Our explanation to your query is below:=


Aslesha= ruled by the serpent God. It has the power to inflict with poison (visasleshana shakti). Its basis above is the approach of the serpent, and below is trembling and agitation, resulting in destruction of the victim. It paralyzes the enemy, which is helpful if we have enemies. It can give an inimical temperament. Also depends on how the energy of this Nakshatra is used. Serpents can give practical wisdom through which one can overcome enemies and obstacles......... As given in the lesson.

Means that the natives may have vengeful and hot tempered, but attractive/magnetic temperament. Though they may be like that, it is blended by the Dharma, artha, kama, moksha depending on the padas posited.

Thus the abovementioned aslesha qualities will be somewhat bent as it will attract the Dharmik qualities and will be conscious of right and wrong, of following ethics in war/battle/arguments/family, office politics etc.

The rasi of an aslesha native is ruled by Cancer, giving him karkata rashi qualities, like being emotional and worried nature. To this add the aslesha qualities of being warrior like etc. To this check out the trikona it is in, and mould the nature according to it as explained above.

This way we should apply these rules by applying our intelligence

vivek and RishiRahul

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Nakashatra

Post by achavan » Sat Mar 29, 2008 12:01 pm

Namaskar Rishi rahul ji,
thank u for the reply.

Hammmm….. correct! Getting your point.
Hot temper Exactly! Don know why but emotional too!

It’s bit personal but ….i’m cancerian with Ashlesha nakshatra.
My lagna is Leo. & now it’s “Sadesati” to both cancer n Leo rashi.
So does it (sadesati) shows double effect on natal?
I hv read few things abt sadesati & worried whether there is double effect or what?

Now in ur reply u mention to check trikona in kundali.
But how? I don’t hv any idea about that!
For exam my b’dt is 10/01/1974
Time : 10.30pm

Now there is mars of Aries in my 9th house….& in 5th house there r Rahu,sun & Mercury.
So how to predict the effect of those planets with relation to Ashlesha nakshatra?

I’m sorry I asked the query bit personal bcoz it’s study forum.
But the above example is bit confusing to me…hence I asked!

Thanks for ur previous reply.
Rgds,

--Achavan

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Why is the Nakshatra occupied by Chandra Important?

Post by vivekvshetty » Sun Mar 30, 2008 4:42 pm

The Nakshatra occupied by Chandra has a great say in Longevity, Marriage, Character and the mental makeup. Any ideas as to why?

RishiRahul and vivek.

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Re: Nakashatra

Post by RishiRahul » Thu Apr 03, 2008 8:12 am

achavan wrote:Namaskar Rishi rahul ji,
thank u for the reply.

Hammmm….. correct! Getting your point.
Hot temper Exactly! Don know why but emotional too!

It’s bit personal but ….i’m cancerian with Ashlesha nakshatra.
My lagna is Leo. & now it’s “Sadesati” to both cancer n Leo rashi.
So does it (sadesati) shows double effect on natal?
I hv read few things abt sadesati & worried whether there is double effect or what?

Now in ur reply u mention to check trikona in kundali.
But how? I don’t hv any idea about that!
For exam my b’dt is 10/01/1974
Time : 10.30pm

Now there is mars of Aries in my 9th house….& in 5th house there r Rahu,sun & Mercury.
So how to predict the effect of those planets with relation to Ashlesha nakshatra?

I’m sorry I asked the query bit personal bcoz it’s study forum.
But the above example is bit confusing to me…hence I asked!

Thanks for ur previous reply.
Rgds,

--Achavan

Namashkar Acchavanji,

Cancer is an emotional sign.

There are 4 types of Trikonas. They are

1) Dharma Trikonas- houses 1, 5, 9.
2)Artha Trikonas- houses 2, 6, 10.
3)Kama Trikonas- houses 3, 7, 11.
4) Moksha Trikonas- houses 4, 8, 12.

Hope it is simpler now; and also to remind you that we are discussing Nakshatras for the present.

Wish you happy reading the older lessons, slooowly.

vivek and RishiRahul
RishiRahul.com
Astro-Palmist & Numerologist
Accurate timings & solutions to specific questions

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Post by prasanna » Thu Apr 03, 2008 9:30 am

thanks rishiji and vivekji for posting about Nakshathras , it is very useful and fantastic , i would like to see more , today only i happen to read this post


prasanna
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Post by JaiDixit » Sat Aug 30, 2008 7:06 pm

Namaste RishiRahulji and Vivekji,

1. How are the Nakshatras organized in the celestial space ? Can you please provide us a 3D or 2D image of the Rashi and Nakshatra topology ?

2. Can a native's general charactersitic be determined from Nakshatra and Rashi alone ? In other words are there only 27/28 types of people in the world ? Should we also consider the Lagna and position of other planets ?

3. Nakshatra vs Rashi lord. Consider Uttarashada nakshatra. It comes under Makara Rashi whose ruler is Shani, but then the Nakshatra itself is ruled by Sun. Why are Rashi and Nakshatras under the Rashi ruled by different Grahas ?


Regards,
Jai

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Post by prasanna » Sun Aug 31, 2008 3:00 am

Dear Jai,

            A kind note to u , Uthraashada !st pada comes even under Dhanur rasi  and Its  Lord is Guru. We have only 12 Rasi  in Rasi mandal and 27 Nakshthras, So scholars divided them equally into  all Rasi accordingly 9 padas to each Rasi.  Each star has its independent nature, so the native is said to posses the nature of His star and the rasi to which he belongs.  Lagna also plays vital role. So altogther, we determine the nature characteristic features of native basing on His  star, lagna and the ruling planet. This is my understanding .Let us wait to see the experts views from our teachers.



Regards,
prasanna

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Post by vivekvshetty » Sun Aug 31, 2008 5:03 am

Namaskaar Jai ji,
The Panchaanga lesson may answer some of your queries.
The Nakshatraas are the backdrop or The background over which the Raashis are superimposed. The overlord of the Nakshatraas is Chandra whereas the overlord of the Raashis is Surya.

In Jyotish we can never base our observation on a single factor and this also applies here. It is a popular way of Jyotish to know of the characteristics of the Nakshatraas just like the Sun Sign Astrology in the western countries. They are popular but rarely used in real jyotish.

The Nakshatra Lord you have cited is based on the Vimshottari Dashaa scheme. There are many such Nakshatra Dashaas (called Udu Dashaa collectively) and the rulers of the Nakshatra differ in them. So when you say that Ravi is the ruler of Uttaraashaaddha Nakshatra, only from the Vimshottari Dashaa point of veiw.

The real lords are the deities of the Nakshatraa. Try to read more about them and also the stories of their origin a nd other stories associated with them from the Puraanaas. These help us in understanding the pulse of the Nakshatra.

As for your first question the following link will be helpful.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nakshatra

RishiRahul and vivek.
JaiDixit wrote:Namaste RishiRahulji and Vivekji,

1. How are the Nakshatras organized in the celestial space ? Can you please provide us a 3D or 2D image of the Rashi and Nakshatra topology ?

2. Can a native's general charactersitic be determined from Nakshatra and Rashi alone ? In other words are there only 27/28 types of people in the world ? Should we also consider the Lagna and position of other planets ?

3. Nakshatra vs Rashi lord. Consider Uttarashada nakshatra. It comes under Makara Rashi whose ruler is Shani, but then the Nakshatra itself is ruled by Sun. Why are Rashi and Nakshatras under the Rashi ruled by different Grahas ?


Regards,
Jai

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Post by prasanna » Sun Aug 31, 2008 8:08 am

Dear Vivekjji and Rishiji,  Pranams.

              I just read your detailed explanations to Jai about Nakshthras. Thanks for that.  I too learnt something from that now clearly .


The Nakshatra Lord you have cited is based on the Vimshottari Dashaa scheme. There are many such Nakshatra Dashaas (called Udu Dashaa collectively) and the rulers of the Nakshatra differ in them. So when you say that Ravi is the ruler of Uttaraashaaddha Nakshatra, only from the Vimshottari Dashaa point of veiw.


               Is this Udu dasa  also   known as Anthara?  or the  time difference between ending of  one dasa period and the starting of other  next dasa period ?  Then what is sukshma? Just need to know the differences ., thanks a lot,  a little  confusions over this terminologies please.


Regards,
prasanna

LEAD, KINDLY LIGHT. LOVE IS GOD, LOVE IS OCEAN, " Love Is Eternal. " LIVE TO LOVE TO LIVE.

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Post by vivekvshetty » Sun Aug 31, 2008 9:55 am

Namaskaar Prasanna ji,
All Dashaas reckoned from the nakshatras are collectively called Udu Dashaas. Anthara means a sub period in the main Mahaadashaa.
In Dashaa reckoning first there is the main period called Mahaadashaa. This period is sub divided into smaller periods called the Antaradashaa. Each Antardashaa is again subdividede into pratyantar dashaa and so on till the sixth level.
The terminology may also differ region to region in such a vast country as India.
RishiRahul and vivek.
prasanna wrote:Dear Vivekjji and Rishiji,  Pranams.

              I just read your detailed explanations to Jai about Nakshthras. Thanks for that.  I too learnt something from that now clearly .


The Nakshatra Lord you have cited is based on the Vimshottari Dashaa scheme. There are many such Nakshatra Dashaas (called Udu Dashaa collectively) and the rulers of the Nakshatra differ in them. So when you say that Ravi is the ruler of Uttaraashaaddha Nakshatra, only from the Vimshottari Dashaa point of veiw.


               Is this Udu dasa  also   known as Anthara?  or the  time difference between ending of  one dasa period and the starting of other  next dasa period ?  Then what is sukshma? Just need to know the differences ., thanks a lot,  a little  confusions over this terminologies please.


Regards,

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Post by prasanna » Sun Aug 31, 2008 10:13 am

Thanks vivekji and Rishiji,  

        Now  I am clear. We call  maha  dasa as dasa, ,then   dasa bukthi and antaram   ie, Main dasa, sub dasa as bukthi and sub sub dasa as antaram .Then sukshma must be the sixth sub division .  Thanks a lot for your clarification now.  I know the manually calculating  of the three sections. I am used to do them from my childhood days with the help of my mom., not knowing the meanings of them. (we use panchang for that ) Now i am able to learn the meanings of each and effects of them too.



Regards,
prasanna

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Re: Why is the Nakshatra occupied by Chandra Important?

Post by gemini_gem » Thu Oct 30, 2008 10:10 pm

vivekvshetty wrote:The Nakshatra occupied by Chandra has a great say in Longevity, Marriage, Character and the mental makeup. Any ideas as to why?

RishiRahul and vivek.
Rishi Rahul ji and Vivek Shetty ji,
Looks like none of us learners has an idea about this. Would you please explain us why this is so.

Also, I have been thinking or the material reading I read has made me assume that there are 3 kinds of aproaches to jyotish - Moon Nakshatra based, Tithi based and Planetary positions based. Looks like that is not so and that each of those approaches have specific areas of application and also restricted in scope. Pls clear this to me.

Also, another question, but might not be related to this specific lesson - How to manually cast a raasi chart? Are there methods to manually cast amsa kundalis too?

Thanks,
Gemini.

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