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AIAC Times - Volume II [The nine column e-zine]

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Page 1: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 1

Page 2: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 2

ContentsContentsContentsContents Editorial .........................................................................................................................................................3

Jupiter’s column ........................................................................................................................................... 5

Einstein’s theory of relativity and Parashara’s views ............................................................................ 5

Sun’s column ................................................................................................................................................ 7

The Cosmic Man ..................................................................................................................................... 7

Moon’s column ........................................................................................................................................... 10

Human Classification – A different look into the caste system .......................................................... 10

Venus’ column ............................................................................................................................................ 12

Films, magic and message ...................................................................................................................... 12

Mercury’s column ....................................................................................................................................... 15

Is it a good year for crops? ...................................................................................................................... 15

Mars’ column ............................................................................................................................................. 20

Why did it hit Haiti? ............................................................................................................................. 20

Saturn’s column .......................................................................................................................................... 22

Objections to Astrology ......................................................................................................................... 22

Rahu’s column ............................................................................................................................................ 26

Jerusalem’s archives ............................................................................................................................... 26

Ketu’s column ............................................................................................................................................. 30

Mathematics, the highest of philosophies ............................................................................................. 30

Something about us .................................................................................................................................... 34

Page 3: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 3

EditorialEditorialEditorialEditorial

I actually have nothing to write about in this editorial but it looks odd to have a Volume of an e-zine

with no editorial. Thus, I decided to present excerpts from a text that I have been reading lately

called “Jyotish Kalpavriksha” [An Astrological Wish Fulfilling Tree, a loose English translation of

the title of the book] by Narayan Chandra Jyotirbhushan Bhattacharya. What I really found

interesting is the chapter devoted to free will verses destiny, a topic of continuing debate among

astrologers.

The knowledge of astrology is necessary since by this knowledge, one becomes aware of one’s destiny (which is the result of one’s deeds).

However, based on this, some argue that if everything is destiny based on one’s deeds and nothing can be altered, then despite one’s

knowledge of astrology, one still has to undergo suffering in life as dictated by one’s destiny. In that case, what is the use of astrology at

all?

It has been stated in the ancient scriptures that even the Guru of the Gods, Jupiter, could not escape the results of his own deeds and faced

the consequences of destiny. Likewise, learned men who have foreknowledge of future events cannot alter the course of destiny. Thus,

one can see that free will is useless when compared to the divine will (destiny) which is a factor of one’s deeds carried over from past

lifetimes.

Against what has been mentioned in the previous verse, the scriptures have also mentioned that if all is pre-destined based on the karma

of previous births, then there should be no need to reap the soil to grow crops or give medical treatment to the sick so that they recover,

since if it is the destiny of the crops to grow and the sick to recover they will nevertheless. It has been clearly mentioned in Bhagawad

Geeta by Krishna that one can never be at rest without performing his karma (actions). If such statements are weighed, then actions in

the present life gain prominence over the concept of destiny.

The concept that destiny is final and that man doesn’t need to do any action [karma] for his destiny is not a correct understanding of the

ancient scriptures. Only a man who works hard for his goal shall be blessed with his destiny [or Lady Luck]. Ancient Yogis have said

Page 4: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 4

that just as two wheels are required for a chariot to function, so does man need his own efforts [karma] and his destiny to function in life.

This thought is also stated in the ancient text Hayan Ratna.

In the ancient text Samhita Deepa, it is mentioned that even if one has a righteous destiny, it won’t manifest until the right place, time

and circumstances fructify. It is possible for destiny to smile on someone without any effort on their part but such an event is subject to

time – only at the right time can such an event occur in one’s life – this is determined by the individual’s birth tithi, nakshatra and

ascendant.

It is mentioned in the Mahabharata that destiny, one’s own effort, and the right time serve as three wheels in one’s life, and move like a

three-wheeled cart. It is only through the synchronization of these three factors can one achieve success and the goal of one’s life. Taking

these factors into consideration, some are of the opinion that karma or one’s own action is superior to destiny.

Arguing against the theory that karma alone is superior, some state that if karma is superior to destiny then Raja Naal, Yudhishthira and

Sri Ramchandra would not have been exiled or driven away from their homeland as their karma was spotless.

However, it is also stated that the karma of previous lifetimes is carried over, the good or ill effects of which will still be felt by the native

even if carried over a thousand lifetimes. The result of karma can never die. If the cause of distress of the previously mentioned great

souls can be attributed to their past life karma, then can we solve the riddle of karma versus destiny?

In the initial verses in this sub-chapter [discussion], it seemed that destiny was superior to karma. In the middle verses it seemed that

karma was superior to destiny, and again in the end verses, it seemed that past life karma [which can be equated to destiny in some ways]

was superior to other theories.

I shall continue the rest of the translation in the next volume [Volume III] of the AIAC Times.

Page 5: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 5

Jupiter’s columnJupiter’s columnJupiter’s columnJupiter’s column

Einstein’s theory of relativity and Einstein’s theory of relativity and Einstein’s theory of relativity and Einstein’s theory of relativity and ParasharaParasharaParasharaParashara’s ’s ’s ’s viewsviewsviewsviews

One of the consequences of this theory is mentioned below:

Two events that occur simultaneously in different places in one frame of reference may occur at

different times in another frame of reference (lack of absolute simultaneity).

Thus all things in life [including space, time and events] are relative in nature.

Parashara rishi writes in Brihatparasharahora shastra-

Fortunes, wife's brother, religion, brother’s wife, visits to shrines etc. should be known from 9th House.

Among other things, Parashara rishi mentions wife’s brother and brother’s wife to be analyzed from

the 9H. The reason for this is known by all. 3H is the house of siblings and 7th from any house

indicates the partner for the said house. 9H is 7th from the 3H thus indicating brother’s wife. One’s

spouse is seen from 7H and 3rd from any house indicates the siblings for the said house. In this case

9H is 3rd from the 7H and thus indicates wife’s brother.

9th House and the 9th from Sun deal with ones father. Whatever effects are to be known from the 10th and 11th

House, be also known from similar Houses, counted from Sun.

Special relativity (SR) (also known as the special theory of

relativity or STR) is the physical theory of measurement in

inertial frames of reference proposed in 1905 by Albert

Einstein in the paper "On the Electrodynamics of Moving

Bodies". It generalizes Galileo's principle of relativity–that

all uniform motion is relative, and that there is no absolute

and well-defined state of rest (no privileged reference

frames)–from mechanics to all the laws of physics, including

both the laws of mechanics and of electrodynamics, whatever

they may be.

Page 6: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 6

We see another kind of relativity used extensively by Parashara rishi. He not only counts houses

with respect to a particular house but also gives special status to zones counted from the “karakas”

[primary significators] of the house under consideration.

Parashara rishi repeatedly hints that the chart must be looked at from a totally relative perspective

and never just from the Lagna. He himself defines Bhava Lagna, Bhava Chalit Lagna, Lagna and its

variations for studying a chart and each of these Lagnas [ascendant points] are used for a very

distinct and specific purpose.

Parashara rishi is a firm believer of relativity in a chart and his principles if applied judiciously can

explain the “why”s behind many other ancient dictums.

In this article, I will work out one of them.

Mahadeva in his classic Jataka Tattwa writes in the following in Dasama Viveka -

If the lords of the 6H and the 10H occupy the 10H in one’s chart, the father of the native will have intercourse

with a woman who is not his own [meaning with someone other than his wife].

Now, 6H is 3rd from 4H which is the house of the mother. 6H thus becomes the house of competition

to the mother and thus stands for the house of step-mother [or someone who competes with the

mother]. 10H is the house of father with respect to social status and name. When the 6L [the

controller of the 6H] is with 10L [controller of the 10H] in the 10H, it indicates association [very close

union] between things signified by the 6H and the things signified by the 10H. Thus, Mahadeva

states there will be sexual union between a woman [not a spouse] and the native’s father which

suggests a very close relationship between the native’s father [10H] and the native’s stepmother [6H].

Let us now compare this example with a verse from yet another classic called Jataka Saradeepa by

Nrisimha Daivagya. Nrisimha writes:

One with 6th Lord in the 10th house of the horoscope is an enemy of his own home, is cruel in nature, and has

tremendous self respect. Such an individual engages in protection of dharma, nourishes his children and doesn’t

like his mother. Such a result is more pronounced if the 6L is a malefic.

The 6L is 3rd from the 4H and being in the 10H, it will make the native’s deeds adverse towards his

home and mother. 6H is 2nd [nourishment] from the 5H and thus the native’s deeds would encourage

protection of his children. 6H is 9H from the 10H and thus indicates dharma of the 10H and such a

native would have tremendous self respect. 6H is 10th from the 9H [dharma] and thus the native’s

deeds would lead to the protection [2nd from the 9H is the 10H] of dharma. One should always study

the classics by understanding the “why” behind the dictums.

Page 7: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 7

Sun’s columnSun’s columnSun’s columnSun’s column

The Cosmic ManThe Cosmic ManThe Cosmic ManThe Cosmic Man

Almost everyone is familiar with the term Cosmic Man [or Kaalapurusha] in jyotish. The Cosmic

Man is the personification of the zodiac signs [twelve in number]. A rasi [or a zodiac sign] is

assigned a certain anatomy of the Cosmic Man.

The popular opinions of the ancients are provided below:

Zodiac SignZodiac SignZodiac SignZodiac Sign ParasharaParasharaParasharaParashara VarahamihiraVarahamihiraVarahamihiraVarahamihira BadarayanaBadarayanaBadarayanaBadarayana Bala BhadraBala BhadraBala BhadraBala Bhadra

AriesAriesAriesAries Head Head Head Head

TaurusTaurusTaurusTaurus Face Face Face Face

GeminiGeminiGeminiGemini Arms Arms Chest Arms

CancerCancerCancerCancer Heart Heart Heart Heart

LeoLeoLeoLeo Stomach Abdomen Abdomen Abdomen

VirgoVirgoVirgoVirgo Hips Waist Waist Waist

LibraLibraLibraLibra Space below navel Bladder Bladder Bladder

ScorpioScorpioScorpioScorpio Privities Privities Privities Privities

SagittariusSagittariusSagittariusSagittarius Thighs Thighs Thighs Thighs

CapricornCapricornCapricornCapricorn Knees Knees Knees Knees

AquariusAquariusAquariusAquarius Ankles Shanks Shanks Shanks

PiscesPiscesPiscesPisces Feet Feet Feet Feet

I am not providing Sanskrit quotations for the above table but anyone interested can refer to

Brihatparasarahorashastra, Brihat Jataka and Hora Ratnam.

This article is not about the Cosmic Man and the zodiac signs that constitute his anatomy. This

article is an attempt to answer the question “why” certain rasis make up a certain part of the

Kaalapurusha. This article will attempt to answer why Leo doesn’t make up the head of the

Kaalapurusha or why Libra doesn’t symbolize his heart.

This is a moderately detailed topic and I will try to cover as much as I can in this volume’s Sun’s

column.

Page 8: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 8

FireFireFireFire EarthEarthEarthEarth AirAirAirAir WaterWaterWaterWater

Aries Taurus Gemini Cancer

Leo Virgo Libra Scorpio

Sagittarius Capricorn Aquarius Pisces

The head is the source of all creative energy in one’s body. The stomach is the energy zone for

processing food which in turn produces energy for the bodily activities. The thighs carry the body to

its desired location/destination. In fact it is the thighs that connect the upper body to the legs and the

strength of the thighs are extremely vital to one’s movement.

Aries (head), Leo (stomach) and Sagittarius (thighs) are assigned accordingly to the Kaalpurusha.

The face is the most important factor for any employment. No employer wants to hire an employee

who always has a frown on his or her face. We like to work with people who are pleasant in nature.

In the corporate world, one’s aspect is a very vital factor for climbing the success ladder. The face has

the mouth which is the source of all rajas in one’s life. We consume food [purchased with our

earnings] through our mouth. We are relaxed when our earnings are good which shows in our face.

We are tense when our earnings are not secure, which is also expressed in our face.

Taurus (face), Virgo (waist) and Capricorn (knees) are assigned accordingly to the Kaalpurusha.

The waist [or the hips] is the region which is most strained

when one bends down or stoops. To understand this, let us

imagine someone sowing seeds in the field or cutting grass.

Such a person stoops and in this posture, the waist and hip

muscles undergo a lot of strain. We need to serve society in

one way or another, and for that we need to bend. Thus hips

and waist are associated with labor. One’s ability to carry

load is determined by the strength of his knees. Please look

at the image alongside of Atlas carrying the globe. Strong

knees are essential for carrying a burden on the shoulder

since one must carry the load as well as move along in life

with the load. This is the responsibility that one must carry

in a position of power and strong knees are needed to do it.

When we wish to communicate with someone, we

use hand gestures in accordance with their

particular culture – be it Namaste, Salaam or a

handshake. Before development of language,

communication was primarily hand and arm

movements.

Page 9: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 9

The most intimate union between two individuals is not possible without the involvement of

genitalia. Legs are associated with sex appeal. The best way to associate and have fun with close

friends and family is to travel, walk, and go to places with them – the modern term is vacation.

Gemini (arms), Libra (genitalia) and Aquarius (legs) are assigned accordingly to the Kaalpurusha.

The heart is the seat of emotion and the cause of happiness and sorrow alike. When the heartbeat

stops permanently, the result is death and release of the soul from the body. The release of body

excretion occurs through the privities be it waste excretion [anus] or seminal/vaginal fluids. The

“feet” rest only when one sleeps or relaxes. Sleep has been compared to a state of temporary death or

temporary release of all worries and anxiety. Touching the feet of someone respected is a Hindu

custom and there is a basis behind it. The body energy enters through the head and leaves from the

feet. Touching the feet of an elder or a guru helps one to absorb that person’s energy.

Cancer (heart), Scorpio (privities) and Pisces (feet) are assigned accordingly to the Kaalpurusha.

AriesAriesAriesAries

TaurusTaurusTaurusTaurus GeminiGeminiGeminiGemini

CancerCancerCancerCancer

LeoLeoLeoLeo

LibraLibraLibraLibra

SagittariusSagittariusSagittariusSagittarius

CapricornCapricornCapricornCapricorn

AquariusAquariusAquariusAquarius

PiscesPiscesPiscesPisces

The figure alongside does not show

Virgo and Scorpio since it can be best

explained in a 3D figure and the back

side of the figure is missing. Virgo is

the waist and hips which is partially

hidden in the figure. Scorpio cannot

be shown in any figure within modest

bounds since it deals with openings in

the human body [anus/genital

openings in men and women].

However, more important than

denoting which rasi [zodiac sign] is

assigned to which part of the human

body [in this personification of the

Kaalpurusha] is to understand the

reasoning and logic behind such an

assignment. This was primarily the

purpose of this article.

The same classifications used for the

Kaalpurusha can be used in the case of

a jataka [individual native]. In the

latter case, the first house would

behave as the first rasi of the

Kaalpurusha. More on this will be

discussed in subsequent volumes of

AIAC Times.

Page 10: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 10

Moon’s columnMoon’s columnMoon’s columnMoon’s column

Human ClassificationHuman ClassificationHuman ClassificationHuman Classification –––– A different look into the caste systemA different look into the caste systemA different look into the caste systemA different look into the caste system

Rishi Markendaya in Markendaya Purana wrote a treatise on the Devi [The Mother Goddess] and a

part of the Purana became extremely popular among people and came to be known as Devi Sooktam

[Praise of the Devi, the Eternal Mother]. A verse from Devi Sooktam reads as below:

Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu Jati Rupena Samsthita

Namastasyei Namastasyei Namastasyei Namo Namaha 10

Salutations to the Great Goddess who abides in all beings as the form of Genus

We bow to you again and again

The Eternal Mother [Devi] is compared to the genus in life. Jati [caste, classification in life] is

loosely translated to genus for lack of a better English word. Classification or grouping of objects is a

human tendency, primarily done to enhance better understanding and is a function of the mind. The

Mother is equated to the higher vibrations of the graha Moon, which according to Parashara rishi

symbolizes the mind in every living being.

Gurushukrau vipravarnau kujakau shatriyo dwija

Sashisomyau vaishyavarnau sahniH shudro dwijottam

Jupiter and Venus are Brahmins. Sun and Mars are Kshatriyas, Moon and Mercury belong to the Vaishyas and

Saturn rules the Sudras.

In Brihatparasharahorashastra, Parashara rishi mentions the association of planets with the then

existing social caste system.

The human society, as we know it, works within the stretch of Brahmin to Shudra. The castes

assigned to the nodes are out of the boundary of the normal human society as the basic mental

faculties and norms of society cease of function in those boundaries. Yogis have overcome all

boundaries of maya [illusive power of the Devi] and Chandala’s activities are below those of social

norms. One can clearly see that this classification is based purely on profession and the type of work

done by an individual.

In modern terms, this classification can be tabulated as below:

Page 11: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 11

YogiYogiYogiYogi/Vairagi/Vairagi/Vairagi/Vairagi Ketu - ascetics, unknown saints, live

out of society, without any

attachment to society

These individuals are rarely known by

name as they prefer to remain anonymous

since name or fame doesn’t affect them at

all.

BrahminBrahminBrahminBrahmin Jupiter – doctors, PhD, economists,

scientists, teachers

Venus – consultants, advisors, stock

market analysts, financial strategists,

film makers

They form the strata of intelligence in the

society. People who work by serving

others with knowledge or ideas fall into

this category. All people working in any

form of the knowledge industry falls in this

category.

KshatriyaKshatriyaKshatriyaKshatriya Sun – CEOs, Directors of companies,

Government

Mars – military, police, defense

forces, security people

These form the ruler class and the warrior

class. Sun is the ruler whether he is the

“Man of the family”, a CEO of a company

or a head of state. Mars executes the

commands entrusted to him. His primary

goal is protection.

VaishyaVaishyaVaishyaVaishya Moon – Product sales, musicians,

singers, performers

Mercury – salesmen, accountants,

finance people

The primary goal of this class is to sell and

buy things. Public appeal is a must which

is the domain of Moon. No one is better at

handling cash than Mercury.

ShudraShudraShudraShudra Saturn – labor, employees, union of

workers

This class is the class of people who work

for their living and their work plan is laid

out by their superiors [Mars]. They

merely perform their tasks in a machinelike

manner. This stratum of society doesn’t

require any innovation or creativity.

ChandalChandalChandalChandalaaaa Rahu – very diverse and mixed

activities which cannot classified into

any socially accepted group.

Prostitutes, spies, terrorists, revolts

etc.

This is a class of people who are not in the

socially classified groups and their

activities fall outside the domain of the four

distinct castes.

In today’s age and time, some professions fall into more than one of the castes defined above. For

example, network security analysts work in an area that is a cross between Brahmin and Kshatriya

[Venus and Mars].

Modern astrologers should study the recent professional trends and be well acquainted with their

equivalents set forth in the ancient classics and vice versa to completely interpret a native’s

professional aptitude and thereby his caste in society.

Page 12: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 12

Venus’ coVenus’ coVenus’ coVenus’ columnlumnlumnlumn

Films, magic and messageFilms, magic and messageFilms, magic and messageFilms, magic and message

Parashara rishi mentions the following when describing Venus:

Sukhi kantavapuH sreyeshthaH sulochana bhrigoH sutaH |

Kavyakarta kafadhikyogyanilatma vakramurdhajaH ||

Son of Bhrigu, Venus, is of joyous disposition, has a wonderful physique, easily noticed and has beautiful eyes.

He is a poet, is phlegmatic and windy and has curly hair.

Mantreswara writes in Phaladeepika:

Paleevahanabhushananimadanavyaparasaukhyam bhrigoH |

Venus is the karaka for spouse, vehicles, ornaments, love [marriage and sex], fine arts, flowers, music and the

sense of pleasure

The domain of fine arts, poetry, music and glamour has always been associated with Venus. Media

in the 21st century is an extremely powerful force molding the course of human history and is a

domain ruled by Venus. The medium of film is the most powerful of all media. The magic of movies

continues to influence people more than anything else in the present era.

I personally love movies. Today [Sunday, January 17, 2009] was the prestigious Golden Globe

Awards and my favorite movie got both the Best Movie and the Best Director awards – Avatar. In

addition to its enthralling on-screen magic, the James Cameron film has a very distinct and clear

message about the connection of man with nature and how disturbing the balance of nature can have

dire consequences.

The success of Avatar becomes obvious after a look at

James Cameron’s chart. Titanic gave Cameron global

recognition and immense success. Avatar was released 12

years after Titanic. This is a 12 year cycle that can be

easily explained by the BCP theory. Titanic [1997]

activated his 7H with Mars/Rahu aspected by

Jupiter/Ketu and Venus [by rasi drishti] and Saturn [by

graha drishti].

Page 13: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 13

In Titanic we saw a failed love story [Venus debilitated afflicted by Rahu and Ketu], death of a

lover’s love [Ketu, Venus], a shipwreck [Saturn aspects Mars with Rahu], a hidden treasure [Jupiter,

Rahu].

After 12 years, Cameron returns with a bang with Avatar. In brief, it is the story of the conflict

between two races, one human and another alien [Mars, Rahu], infiltration by means of disguise as

an avatar [Ketu, Jupiter], failed love attempt [Venus, debilitated and afflicted by Rahu] and finally

victory of the subdued class [exalted Saturn aspects Mars].

Avatar explores a theme that, like the theme of Titanic, can be seen in the planets in the dual signs,

again bringing Cameron success on the global cinema stage.

I wish him all the best in his future endeavors and that he continues to use the medium of cinema to

convey his universally relevant messages.

It would not be fair to end Venus’ column without

mentioning a recent revolutionary Bollywood

release which has not only broke box office records

but also hit a nerve in the Indian sentiment that no

movie before has been able to achieve. The film

entitled 3 idiots, directed by Rajukumar Hirani and

produced by Vidhu Vinodh Chopra has created

waves in the Indian sentiment on the touchy

subject of the Indian education system by holding

up a mirror to the system via comic means with a

very discreet message.

Page 14: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 14

However, the actor who carried the film and gave the film its magic was Amir Khan. Mr. Khan

shuns award functions and usually does only one or two of films a year of his choosing. He is a

classically trained actor, the likes of which Bollywood has not seen in years.

Age 44, Amir Khan convincingly played the character of an 18 year old college student. According to

BCP theory the 8H activated in Khan’s chart. The 8H is aspected by Saturn and Venus [Aquarius],

Rahu [Taurus] & Mars [Leo, retrograde] by rasi drishti. Libra gets aspected by Jupiter in Aries by

graha drishti.

The film 3 idiots is philosophical in nature [Aquarius, Saturn] and questions [Rahu] the current

educational system [Jupiter]. An underlying love story [Venus] and revolutionary ideas in

engineering study [Mars retrograde] are shown. The film was overwhelmingly accepted by the public

masses [Saturn] and was a hit at the box office the kind of which the Indian film industry hasn’t seen

in a long time.

The power of Venus is immense which can be seen by the power of film. The magic of film can

create wonders in the lives of the common man. Thus great responsibility lies in the hands of

filmmakers. If this medium is used to convey discreet social messages as well as entertain, it can

really create magic in lives of individuals and in society as a whole.

Page 15: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 15

Mercury’s columnMercury’s columnMercury’s columnMercury’s column

Is it a good year for cropsIs it a good year for cropsIs it a good year for cropsIs it a good year for crops????

There are five elements in nature: air, earth, fire and water. Mercury rules the earth element which is

primarily responsible for the sustenance of life on our planet. As modern astrologers, we invest our

time and energy analyzing human life and developing predictive tools to enhance our insight into the

future of humanity. However, the ancient sages were particularly devoted to a branch of astrology

known as Krishi Jyotish or agricultural astrology (Krishi means farmers).

The reason we modern astrologers do not give this branch of astrology the prominence it deserves is

due to the lack of translated ancient texts as well as lack of application of the ancient knowledge.

In this article, I will set forth one of the dictums of the ancient sages and, again, as usual try to get to

the “why” behind it.

Many modern astrologers may look down on ancient agricultural astrology as a product of a

“primitive” pastoral age and not applicable to our era. Recently, in Volume 7 of Saptarishis Astrology,

there were two articles on this subject. They were entitled “Khanar Vachan” by Abhishekha and

“Krishi Prasara” by Virendra Battu. I shall refer to both of these works in this article.

In India, there is a national competition showcase called BizComp open to young graduates of

technical and business schools. The graduates prepare and submit business plans for review by an

elite panel of experts. Awards and prizes are given for the best plans.

From the BizComp website:

Bizcomp is the acronym for business competition. The competition is not of businesses but for business plans.

Students of graduate Engineering / Technology and post graduate management students who have a business

idea can showcase their understanding of economy, business potential, financials of their business and other

aspects to experts from industry, management, financing institutes. Well showcasing is just not about

presentation to experts but a competition of comprehensive and coining business plan that can secure funding and

start up facilities at our incubation Centre.

Interestingly, in 2009, the BizComp 2nd prize was awarded to Abhishek Bhati and Chetan Singh Nagi

from Tata Institute of Social Sciences for their research in “Krishi Parashara”.

A reliable yearly forecast of crop yields would be a very valuable tool with respect to the harvest. It

could improve agricultural growth, thereby improving the wealth of the farmers and indirectly the

wealth of the nation.

We find a few references regarding crop predictions in “Khanar Vachan”, an astrological work

written in Bengali [a regional language prevalent in the eastern state of Bengal in India]

Shani raja mongol patro | Chasha khodai sar matro ||

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The year in which Mars is the minister and Saturn is the king is an ill-year for growing crops.

Budh raja, shukro jadi montri hoy | shei vatsar shasyo bhalo hoy ||

Khona bole etey nahik shonshoy | aagey panji dekho mohashoy ||

The Panchanga should be referred and in the year in which Mercury is the king and Venus the minister, the

yield is excellent that year. The earth will be full of bounty and Khana is certain on this as she never lies.

Similar dictums are found in “Krishi Parashara”, an agricultural astrological work written by

Parashara rishi.

Sangramo vatavrishtishcha rogopadrava eva cha |

Manda vrishtiH sada vato nripey samvatsare shanau ||

Sage Parashara says that in the year when Saturn becomes the King there is un-necessary war between nations.

Storms and very little rains are common occurrence. People are troubled with illnesses and manifestations of

various curses by Gods are felt by people during that year.

Nairujyam supracharashcha subhiksham khitimandaley |

Yatrashtabdey chandrajo raja sarvasashya cha modini ||

Sage Parashara says that in the year when Mercury becomes the King, land is rewarded with bountiful harvest

and an overall prosperity is visible. People do not face a famine that year; people are healthy, trade and travel

increases. Land is full of variety of grains.

Both texts refer to the “King” and “Minister” of a year, which are the bases for framing the over-all

prediction for the year.

My aim has always been to find out the answer to the question “why” and in this article as well I

shall attempt to do so.

I found a very interesting reference to the “King” and “Minister” in another classic jyotish text called

Narada Samhita. Although Narada Samhita is not as popular as better known jyotish texts like

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Brihatparasharahorashastra or Brihad Samhita/Jataka, it is an extremely useful text and has some

rare astrological techniques which when applied give precise results.

A relevant verse is provided below-

Chautradheyshyapi maseyshu meshadhaH sankramaH kramaT |

Chautraditithiwareshstaswabdhasya twadhishcharaH ||

In the month of Chaitra [soli-lunar month] etc., we experience sankranti of Mesha [Aries] etc.

The day of week on which Chaitra Shukla Pratipada falls in a year, the lord of that day is said to be the “King”

of that year.

Thus, the planet indicated by the day on which Chaitra Shukla Pratipada falls on is the ruler of the

year. Readers who are not familiar with the Hindu soli-lunar calendar and the lunar phases are

requested to familiarize themselves with these concepts. In Narada Samhita there are additional

techniques given for determining the Minister of the year, Lord of the Crops, Lord of Rain etc. for the

year. To keep this article within a tolerant size limit, I am skipping those portions of the text.

Thus, anyone who reads these classics can determine which planet is the king of the year. They can

then check the Hindu calendar and should be able to easily predict the year with respect to crops as

well as in general, at least that is what one would expect.

Let us take an example - the year 2009. As per most Hindu calendars, Chaitra Shukla Pratipada was

March 27, 2009, a Friday. Friday is lorded by Venus and thus by all classical definitions the year

should have been full of bounty.

Now, let us analyze some facts. Commodity Online, a commodities trading portal calls 2009 a year of

decreased production.

Perhaps another example should be taken to see the validity of the dictums given by astrological

stalwarts like Khana, Parashara and Narada.

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We will consider the year 2006. As per the Hindu calendar, Chaitra Shukla Pratipada was on March

30, 2006, a Thursday. According to dictums given in Krishi Parashara and Narada Samhita it should

have a great year for all with respect to growth, peace and harmony.

Now, let us see some facts.

The farmers in Texas called 2006 one of the worst years for crops they could remember.

Are we to conclude that the dictums of the ancient seers don’t work in today’s age and time? Or is it

that we are missing something? The conclusion will differ from culture to culture. Perhaps in the

West, some might boldly declare that these dictums don’t work in real life. In the East, especially in

India, where reverence for elders is taught from childhood (even if they are wrong), people might

blame it on their own lack of understanding of the ancient principles.

Now that I have laid out the riddle, it is my duty as well to provide the answer. The clue to the

answer is actually already given in the preceding paragraph itself where I discussed the relatively

different approaches of individuals based on their culture. Geography thus plays a very important

role. There is yet another factor which should be briefly touched upon to explain the solution to this

riddle. We must take into account that a Tithi [lunar phase] can begin anytime during the day or

night. It is the start of the Tithi which is the most important factor.

Panchang, which gives us vital information about time, is entirely a factor of a geographic location.

Vara [week day] is calculated from one sunrise to another and thus is also a factor of a geographic

location.

When the ancients like Parashara, Khana and Narada laid down these rules [dictums based on King,

Minister of the years] they assumed people who read and interpreted these concepts already had the

prerequisite knowledge required to do so.

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Let us see how this actually works then. In 2009 at Mumbai, Chaitra Shukla Pratipada started on a

Thursday evening at about 21:37 hrs. Since the day was Thursday, the lord Jupiter will denote the

results. However, both Parashara and Narada have written great things about a year whose King is

Jupiter. Yet the scenario was disastrous. Are we still missing a piece of the puzzle? Yes, we are.

Whenever Varesh [lord of day of the week] is analyzed, it is done so based on his strength in the

chart at the moment of the start of the year. If a good king is weak, he cannot be of any use to his

kingdom.

In 2006, Lubbock, Texas, Chaitra Shukla Pratipada started on March 29, 2006 at 4:16 am [before

sunrise]. Since the Tithi started before sunrise, the day should be considered as Tuesday lorded by

Mars.

Thus we see that the dictums of the ancients should be applied on the foundations of jyotish

principles and only then can one explain the complete functioning of the theory and get the true

essence of the wisdom of the ancients.

The Varesh Jupiter is in the 4th house of assets,

homeland and resources available at home, and is

debilitated and conjoined its dire enemy Rahu

and aspected by rasi drishti by Saturn. Such a

varesh will not only deny whatever is promised

in the classical dictums but also will give adverse

effects to the nation.

The Varesh Mars is in the 5th house of growth

and sustenance for the nation. Mars is aspected

by rasi drishti by Saturn, Jupiter and Venus.

Mars is the ruler of Agni Tattwa and in the 5th

house it indicates burning or lack of moisture

which in 2006 took the form of a drought.

However, the aspects by Venus and Jupiter show

some promise of recovery. In September, about

24,000 Texas producers in 216 drought-stressed

counties became eligible for $16.1 million from the

federal Livestock Assistance Grant Program. The

government came to their rescue.

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Mars’ columnMars’ columnMars’ columnMars’ column

Why did Why did Why did Why did it it it it hit Haiti?hit Haiti?hit Haiti?hit Haiti?

January 12, 2010 16:53:10 hrs local time, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti which caused immense

damage to property as well as shattering the life of the common people in Haiti.

Although I had a different topic to write on in Mars’ column for this issue, I could not resist writing

on this very recent and current topic.

If you are reading this e-zine from my blog or my scribd account, you can read two of my articles

titled – “A Poke of the Trident” and “A Poke of the Trident – II” in which I have used two methods

to predict disasters in a geographical region.

In Mercury’s column in this volume of the e-zine I have written on yet another method of predicting

yearly results for a geographic place. I will collate all three methods and present it this Mars column

regarding the disastrous earthquake at Haiti.

Buildings are seen damaged in the neighborhood of

Petionville, Port-Au-Prince shortly after an

earthquake hit Haiti, January 12, 2010. The 7.0

magnitude quake rocked Haiti, killing possibly

thousands of people as it toppled the presidential

palace and hillside shanties alike and leaving the

poor Caribbean nation appealing for international

help.

The Shoola nakshatras in the chart of Haiti are Revati,

Ardra, U Phal and P Shad. In the chart of Haiti, the

Rudra is the Sun and Maheshwara is Venus. Thus in

the analysis of the event, these four nakshatras and the

Rudra and Maheshwara will be of critical importance.

The Sarvatobhadra Chakra on the date and time of the

earthquake is provided below.

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Given below is the chart of Shukla Chaitra Pratipada of Haiti for 2009-2010.

From everyone in the AIAC Times, I wish and pray to the Almighty for a speedy recovery for the

people of Haiti.

As clearly seen in the Chakra of

the Haiti earthquake shown

alongside, three out of four

trishoola nakshatras had malefic

vedhas on that day. It should also

be noted that the trigger event

causing this earthquake was a 6.5

magnitude earthquake off the coast

of California that began on January

6th 2010. At this time, both Rudra

[Sun] and Maheshwara [Venus]

were transiting P Shad nakshatra

to U Shad nakshatra. Also

noteworthy are two other facts –

Saturn has Vedha on the Poorna

Tithi and Mars has Vedha on

Poorna Tithi as well piercing

through the diagonal. One should

also note that U Shad is also the

Desa nakshatra of Haiti.

The expectations for the year from March 26, 2009

to March 15, 2010 can be determined by the Shukla

Chaitra Pratipada chart for Haiti shown alongside.

The day lord is Jupiter and it is debilitated in the

8H with Rahu afflicting it. This combination is

extremely bad for the people of the country.

Jupiter is jeeva or life and its debilitation and

affliction indicates loss of life. There are ways to

determine exactly when in the year such an event

will occur based on the Chaitra Shukla Pratipada

chart and such methods will be discussed in detail

in later issues of AIAC Times.

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Saturn’s columnSaturn’s columnSaturn’s columnSaturn’s column

Objections to AstrologyObjections to AstrologyObjections to AstrologyObjections to Astrology

Harold Washington Public Library’s astrology rack [6th floor, BF series] is one of my favorite places

in the city of Chicago. Not only do the astrology books hold my interest but I find the books against

astrology equally exciting. One such book which I found particularly interesting is entitled

“Objections to Astrology” [1975, Impact Series, Prometheus Books] by Bart J Bok. The book contains

signatures of 192 leading scientists including 19 Nobel Prize winners who unequivocally disavow

astrology. Reading this book was a real treat.

One of the very first things I was taught in jyotish [astrology] is to understand the three principles of

Sthana, Kala and Patra [place, time and individual background] when dealing with any issue in

jyotish [astrology]. Many astrologers reading a book containing scientific arguments against

astrology might become very angry or disappointed. Such a reaction demonstrates a biased

attachment to astrology proving that astrologers, like practitioners of any profession on this planet,

are human beings. However, the best astrologers have their practice grounded in the three primary

principles [place, time and individual background]. This gives them the ability to analyze the

problem with clarity because they can get into the shoes of the other person and see things from that

person’s perspective.

Below is an excerpt from “Objections to Astrology” discussing one of the key arguments the

scientific community poses against astrology.

Now, let me mention that the astrological community should understand and appreciate the fact that

these arguments are coming from the scientific community. Thus, any response to this gravity

argument must be in language that the scientists can understand. In communication between two

such diverse groups as astrologers and scientists, it makes sense that if the astrologers want to

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respond to the scientists’ arguments, it is up to the astrologers to address the scientific principles

involved.

The question of “how” planets influence us is an extremely relevant and scientifically well-founded

question. According to the “Theory of Universal Gravitation” formulated by Sir Issac Newton in

1687, all objects are attracted toward other objects, due to a force called gravitation. This includes

everything from subatomic particles to massive stars and planets. The formula given for the

gravitational force between two objects is F = GMm/R² where F is the force between the two objects,

M is the mass of one object, m is mass of the other object, R is the distance between the centers of the

two objects and G is an universal constant.

The scientists argue that such a force between Earth and other planets is too miniscule to affect

people and things on earth. Mentioned below are some issues regarding the arguments posed by the

scientific community.

1) Neither the astrological community nor any known astrological text has laid claim to the fact

that the gravitational forces between the planets govern human life.

2) The quality of the gravitational forces between Mars and Earth and Jupiter and Earth

(according to accepted norms of physics) is the same, irrespective of the planets involved.

However, in astrology these planets and the energies associated with them are given

completely diverse domains. Therefore, how can the force or forces be gravity?

3) To make a bold statement, the scientific community has ignored a few scientific facts. The

Universe doesn’t collapse on itself due to the presence of dark matter [and dark energy], a

principle which is still not completely understood by scientists. Dark matter plays a very

significant role in the theory of gravitational forces.

4) It is not entirely true that physical planetary forces have no effect at all on life on Earth.

On the last point let me elaborate a little. In all astrological texts, Jupiter is has the status of a King

or God. In Vedic Astrology, Jupiter is called “Dev Guru”, the Guru of the Devas and is considered a

natural benefic planet. In the example below, modern science reinforces the astrological belief

regarding Jupiter’s status as a benefic planet without causing any contradiction.

This image above, taken on January 4 and 5, 2001, by the ion and neutral mass spectrometer

instrument on the Cassini spacecraft, makes the huge magnetosphere surrounding Jupiter visible in a

way no instrument on any previous spacecraft has been able to do.

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Jupiter's magnetosphere is very special. It is the biggest thing in the entire solar system. Not only is

it big enough to hold all of Jupiter's moons, but the sun itself could fit inside. It goes all the way to

Saturn. More importantly, we humans owe our existence to Jupiter and its magnetosphere. The

gravitational force combined with its magnetosphere deflects the inflicting meteors towards the Earth

[from Saturn’s belts] and the harmful radiations to the Earth. No wonder, this failed star [Jupiter] is

physically like a God standing there and protecting Earth and its life forms.

The point is how did the scientists “assume” that the principles of astrology are based on planetary

“forces”? Could it be because an astrologer uses a chart based on planetary positions to interpret a

person’s destiny? In that case, any scientist uses a watch to see time. Would a scientist deduce that

the hands of the clock govern the principles of time? Probably not.

To elaborate, in 1998, I was troubled a lot by a question pertaining to astrology as we know it today.

What if in a few thousand years from now, something happened to the planet Mercury and it just

blasted into pieces?

In 2002, I watched a Hollywood movie called “Total Recall” and another question sprang up in my

mind. What would a horoscope of a Martian [or even a human born on Mars] look like?

I encourage my students to ask such questions. Such questions are not stupid, and if properly

analyzed, would shake the very foundation of jyotish as we know it today.

If something happens to the physical planet Mercury one day and it is shattered into pieces in space,

all humans will not cease to communicate. People on Earth will not suffer from memory losses nor

cease to learn new things. Borders and Barnes & Noble for sure will not stop selling books.

All things indicated by Mercury in classical astrology will not undergo any change. The question

then is “why” so? The answer is extremely simple. If the second hand in my wrist watch breaks,

time is not affected at all.

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We should not be surprised at all by this reasoning. After all, we use latitude and longitude to denote

any place on Earth based on “imaginary” lines. All systems of astrology that use the lunar nodes

utilize “imaginary” points in space. Similarly, if the planet Mercury no longer existed, an

“imaginary” Mercury could still be plotted and charts with Mercury could still be drawn.

The point I am making is that it isn’t the physical planet Mercury that is influences us; it is the

predominant presence of “Mercurial” elements in us that influences us. The physical planet merely

plays the role of a hand of a 9-hand astrological clock [7 planets from Sun to Saturn and 2 nodes].

I will not answer the question as to how the element of Mercury is measured in us [humans] in this

article but will surely do so in subsequent articles in the e-zine series.

Now, if someone is born on Mars, what would be their horoscope and how could you predict from it?

For sure, the planet Mars would not be shown in their horoscopes, the factors of Sthana, Kala and

Patra [place, time and individual background] would change completely, and a blue-green planet

called “Earth” would be seen in the horoscopes of Martians.

Tabulated below are some “objections” raised in the book “Objections to Astrology” and my

responses to them.

ObjectionObjectionObjectionObjection ResponseResponseResponseResponse

NoNoNoNo considerable gravitational force on humansconsiderable gravitational force on humansconsiderable gravitational force on humansconsiderable gravitational force on humans The 9-hand clock theory, no astrologer or

astrology book mentions gravitational forces as

an influencing factor. However, some factors are

evident and they do physically influence life on

Earth like Jupiter’s presence, Lunar tides, Sun

spots and comets.

Zodiacs move and the position of the stars Zodiacs move and the position of the stars Zodiacs move and the position of the stars Zodiacs move and the position of the stars

change with respect to Earthchange with respect to Earthchange with respect to Earthchange with respect to Earth

Precession of the equinoxes in relation to the

sidereal zodiac was explained centuries ago. The

factor called “Ayanamsa” exists to account for

this movement.

Twin BirthTwin BirthTwin BirthTwin Birth Challenge, Challenge, Challenge, Challenge, Statistical AstrologyStatistical AstrologyStatistical AstrologyStatistical Astrology

results etc.results etc.results etc.results etc.

One chart isn’t enough to know everything about

someone. Divisional charts need to be cast to

determine ascertain differences in the lives of

individuals. Sthana Kala Patra [Place, Time and

Individual background] can never be forgotten as

principle factors in astrology.

Much more explanation is necessary on this topic and this issue will be dealt with subsequent issues.

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Rahu’s columnRahu’s columnRahu’s columnRahu’s column

Jerusalem’s archivesJerusalem’s archivesJerusalem’s archivesJerusalem’s archives

In 1909 Miss Gladys Dickson wrote a book entitled “Jerusalem Christian Treatise on Astrology” in

which she translated first part of an Arabic manuscript.

Below is an excerpt from the book:

The author has done a wonderful job of translation in her book. Such an effort required an equal

amount of knowledge in both Arabic and astrology and that is indeed commendable. However, in

some places the author has admitted that translation was not possible due to lack of proper

understanding. I am providing below the translation table used by the author.

The translation and transliteration tables are given in her book. However, for the readers’ benefit and

to express my appreciation for such a work, I have put in table form the author’s translation that she

was able to complete.

Table of zodiac sign names is given below:

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Arabic Arabic Arabic Arabic TransliteratTransliteratTransliteratTransliteration ion ion ion English English English English VedicVedicVedicVedic

Aries Mesha

Taurus Vrishabha

Gemini Mithuna

Cancer Karaka

Leo Simha

Virgo Kanya

Libra Tula

Scorpio Vrishchika

Sagittarius Dhanu

Capricorn Makara

Aquarius Kumbha

Pisces Meena

Similarly, we see a mapping of planet names as given below:

Arabic Arabic Arabic Arabic TransliterationTransliterationTransliterationTransliteration EnglishEnglishEnglishEnglish VedicVedicVedicVedic

Mars Mangal

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Mercury Budha

Jupiter Guru

Venus Shukra

Saturn Shani

It would be most interesting to have a comparative table of the fixed stars [nakshatras]. Miss

Dickson could not complete the translation of all of the corresponding star names from Arabic to

English and this task is indeed humungous. Individuals with knowledge in Arabic and astrology

should come forward and complete this mapping so that greater insight can be gained into ancient

Arabic astrology with relation to modern astrology schools.

The author’s work primarily deals with various concepts of mundane astrology including eclipses,

earthquakes and yearly results, and then discusses the zodiac signs. The zodiac signs are described

separately for men and women.

However, there is a portion of this text which I found extremely interesting. I am providing the

excerpt below:

I will try to tabulate the above verse 19 and try to draw parallels from Vedic astrology.

Zodiac SignZodiac SignZodiac SignZodiac Sign Arabic sign Arabic sign Arabic sign Arabic sign

namenamenamename

Arabic fixed starsArabic fixed starsArabic fixed starsArabic fixed stars Vedic nakshVedic nakshVedic nakshVedic nakshaaaatratratratra

AriesAriesAriesAries

Saratain , Butain ,

Thurayya

Ashwini, Bharani, Krittika [1/4]

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TaurusTaurusTaurusTaurus

Thurayya [1/3], Dabaran,

Hakah [1/3]

Krittika [3/4], Rohini, Mrigashira

[1/2]

GeminiGeminiGeminiGemini

Hakah [1/3], Hanah,

Dhira

Mrigashira [1/2], Ardra, Punarvasu

[3/4]

CancerCancerCancerCancer

Natrah, Tarf, Jabhah [1/3] Punarvasu [1/4], Pushya, Ashlesha

LeoLeoLeoLeo

Jabhah [1/3], Zabrah,

Sarfah [1/3]

Magha, P Phal, U Phal [1/4]

VirgoVirgoVirgoVirgo

Sarfah [1/3], Awwa and

Simuk, Sunbulah

U Phal [3/4], Hasta, Chitra [1/2]

LibraLibraLibraLibra

Ghafir, Dhanabah, Iklil

[1/3]

Chitra [1/2], Swati, Vishakha [3/4]

ScorpioScorpioScorpioScorpio

Vishakha [1/4], Anuradha, Jyestha

SagittariusSagittariusSagittariusSagittarius

[1/3] Sulah, Nayim,

Baldah

Moola, P Ashad, U Ashad [1/4]

CapricornCapricornCapricornCapricorn

Sa’adu’uh Duhib, Sa’du

Bula’a, Sad’u-Saud [1/3]

U Ashad [3/4], [Abhijit], Shravana,

Dhanistha [1/2]

AquariusAquariusAquariusAquarius

Sad’u-Saud [1/3], Sa’du’l-

Ahbiyak, Farghu’l

Mukkadam [1/3]

Dhanistha [1/2], Shatabhishak, P

Bhadrapada [3/4]

PiscesPiscesPiscesPisces

Farghu’l Mukkadam [1/3],

Farghu’l Muurahhar, Batn

el’-Hut

P Bhadrapada [1/4], U Bhadrapada,

Revati

With the above table at hand, one can easily draw parallels between the Arabic and Vedic systems of

fixed stars. The divisions of both systems seem to spill over each into other and many places they

intersect. I belive this was one of the primary reasons the author could not furnish all of the

translations.

This text has some striking similarities between the Vedic system of panchang and the Arabic system

of predicting the years’ outcome. If such works are truly researched with an open mind, numerous

parallels could be drawn between the ancient systems of astrology throughout the world which will

surely change the way we see the different systems of astrology today.

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Ketu’s columnKetu’s columnKetu’s columnKetu’s column

Mathematics, the highest of philosophiesMathematics, the highest of philosophiesMathematics, the highest of philosophiesMathematics, the highest of philosophies

My math teacher in the 10th standard (the 10th grade) always told me that Mathematics is the purest

language invented by man. If we encounter an alien civilization someday, it is possible that we

would have the science of numbers in common and it would help us to communicate with them.

The first mention of the concept of polarity comes from the Bhagawad Geeta by Sri Krishna.

Duality (of man and God) and unity (between man and God) were philosophies given to the world

by the ancient sages and known as Dwaita and Adwaita, respectively.

In “Critique of Pure Reason” Immanuel Kant writes:

“All human knowledge begins with intuitions, proceeds thence to concepts, and ends with ideas.”

It should be no surprise that the decimal system and the concept of zero were born in ancient India.

The credit for these discoveries goes to a famous astronomer and astrologer named Aryabhatta in

498CE.

However, in recent times, one sage has revolutionized mathematics with his deep insight and

knowledge of the Vedas. His name is Sri Bharati Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj, the Shankaracharya of

the Govardhana Matha, Puri, Orissa, India.

He has brought to the world sixteen sutras [small poems] from the Vedas and given us “Vedic

Mathematics” in his book of the same name.

Today “Vedic mathematics” is being taught in schools all around the globe. Students aspiring for

competitive examinations find the simple methods described by this sage extremely useful and quick.

In her introduction to “Vedic Mathematics” by Sri Bharati Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj (Motilal

Banarsidass Publishers), his disciple Srimati Manjula Trivedi writes:

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Thus, we see that such innovative mathematical methods cannot be discovered by mere pragmatic

research. Framing and analysis of such sutras is only possible by the highest of philosophers and

greatest of yogis after years of dedicated “Tapas” practice to develop pure intuitive knowledge.

CS Patel, in his book “Navamsa in Astrology,” gives translations from the Sanskrit classic “Anakana

Shastra” on the placement of planets in different Navamsas. He writes the following about Ketu in

the first Navamsa.

“The native will construct dams, will wander throughout the entire world and live till 50 years of

age.”

Ketu has been attributed to spirituality as well as intuition. Building dams it not possible without

precise measurements and mathematical aptitude. Of all the planets, Ketu represents the outcaste, or

a yogi.

We definitely see a very deep connection between the highest of intuition and deepest mathematical

abilities. These are invariably the domain of Ketu.

I would now like to share with you an application of one of the sixteen sutras given by Sri Bharati

Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj.

Tirthaji Maharaj writes this sutra as Urdhva – Tiryabhayam.

He further explains this sutra as given below -

Simply, speaking the sutra [theory] just says “vertically and cross-wise”.

Let us see an example of the application of this theory.

If usually one if given a multiplication of two 2 digit numbers, e.g. 45 * 21, we follow the below

mentioned process.

45

X 21

45 [we multiply 45 by 1]

9o* [we then multiply 45 by 2]

945 [we add the two results together to get the final result]

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The method of “vertically and cross-wise” does this in one step and one can do this multiplication

mentally without pen or paper [or a calculator].

First step as per the sutra is “vertically” and we do just that. In the two numbers 45 and 21, we take the

two rightmost digits and multiply them vertically.

5

X 1

5

Second step as per the sutra is cross-wise and we do just that. In the two numbers 45 and 21, we

multiply the digits cross-wise and sum the result.

44445

X 21111

4*1= 4

45555

X 22221

5*2= 10

Adding the two we get 14. We keep the first [rightmost] digit or “4” in the result and carry over the

second digit [leftmost] or “1”.

Third and final step is to multiply the leftmost digits and add it to the carry over and place the

number in the result.

4

X 2

8

The result 8 + 1 (carry over) = 9

Thus the final result is 945

Page 33: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 33

Another example will perhaps make things clearer.

Let us say 93 * 72Let us say 93 * 72Let us say 93 * 72Let us say 93 * 72

Step 1 = 3*2 =6 is the digit answer

Step 2 = (9*2) + (3*7) = 18 + 21 = 39, so 3 is carry, 9 is the digit answer

Step 3 = (9*7) = 63 + 3 = 66 is the digit answer

Thus, the answer is 6696

Let us take another example Let us take another example Let us take another example Let us take another example –––– 89 * 7889 * 7889 * 7889 * 78

Step 1 = 9*8 = 72, 7 is the carry, 2 is the digit

Step 2 = (8*8) + (9*7) + 7 = 134, 13 is the carry, 4 is the digit

Step 3 = 8*7 = 56 + 13 = 69 is the digit

Thus, the answer is 6942

Genius such as this [the sutra mentioned above] cannot be achieved without the presence of

predominant Ketu in one’s chart [specifically in trines to Navamsa Lagna]. I don’t have the chart of

Sri Bharati Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj but I used a rectification method and I do believe that he had

Saturn and Ketu in the first Navamsa.

Below are the names of two of the greatest mathematicians of history and the placement of Ketu in

their Navamsa chart. There is a definite and precise reason why in this case I am using the Navamsa

placement of the planet instead of the Rasi placement. That explanation is out-of-scope for this

article.

MathematicianMathematicianMathematicianMathematician Placement of Ketu in NavamsaPlacement of Ketu in NavamsaPlacement of Ketu in NavamsaPlacement of Ketu in Navamsa

SSSSir Issac Newtonir Issac Newtonir Issac Newtonir Issac Newton Ketu in Capricorn in 1st Navamsa

Srinivasa RamanujanSrinivasa RamanujanSrinivasa RamanujanSrinivasa Ramanujan Ketu with Sun in Gemini in 1st Navamsa

“The highest form of pure thought is in mathematics”

~ Plato

Page 34: AIAC Times Volume II

AIAC Times [Volume 2]

©Ancient Indian Astrology Classes Page 34

Something about usSomething about usSomething about usSomething about us

For this issue, articles are written by Amarnath For this issue, articles are written by Amarnath For this issue, articles are written by Amarnath For this issue, articles are written by Amarnath &&&& edited by edited by edited by edited by Surasa.Surasa.Surasa.Surasa.

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