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T. Manohar Rao (late) Bangalore, India BOOK I BASIC ASTROLOGY

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Hindu astrology uses a number of concepts and terms that have to be understood by the student or astrologer before starting casting horoscopes and predicting the future. This book covers all these concepts, and the characteristics of various planets.

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Page 1: Basic Astrology

T. Manohar Rao (late) Bangalore, India

BOOK I BASIC ASTROLOGY

Page 2: Basic Astrology

Just like any other written language, the language of stars, i.e. Astrology, has certain basic signs and symbols which although get modified in practice by their relationship to each other, have some definite meaning. It is therefore important to know the various elements, factors and terms involved in this science. Since Astrology starts where Astronomy ends, we must know the astronomical terms used in astrology, i.e. Zodiac, longitude, latitude, planets, node, constellation, etc. It is therefore necessary to know the Universe and the Solar System.

Chapter 1 AN INTRODUCTION TO ASTRONOMY

The Universe You may be wondering why this subject has been brought into the book dealing with Astrology. It has been said that Astrology begins where Astronomy ends. It is essential to have the knowledge of Astronomy which deals with the details of the various data regarding the planets, stars, etc. Astronomy provides us with the details of positions of various planets and their daily transit. This data is essential for the casting of horoscopes. Before proceeding with the details, it is very important to know the constituents of the celestial universe. The vast surrounding space is called the Universe which includes everything that exists, i.e. the most distant stars, planets, satellites, asteroids, comets, meteors, and our own Earth. The Sun, which sustains all the life on Earth, is only one of billions of stars that exist in the Universe and Earth is just a tiny speck in the Universe. In order to study the various constituents of the universe, we have to understand the various objects or elements like galaxies, stars, planets, etc. Since the distance between the various heavenly bodies, like stars and planets, is extremely large, it cannot be specified in Kms. Hence units termed “light years” and “parsec” are used to indicate distances. These distances are: Light year = 9.46 x 1012 Kms. (Distance travelled by light in one year) Parsec = 3.26 light years (Astronomical unit of distance)

GALAXY Galaxy is a vast collection of billions of stars, dust and hydrogen gas, isolated in space from similar systems. All galaxies started from a single source about 1.5 billion years ago. Due to explosions, these must have scattered in all directions, forming different galaxies, stars, etc. The galaxies were formed due to shrinkage of vast over dense clouds of hydrogen and dust. The galaxies: 1) Milky Way and 2) Andromeda are the two important ones. The Solar System of which the Earth forms a member belongs to the Milky Way, which corresponds to Akasha Ganga in Indian Astronomy (See diagram at the end of the book). This galaxy containing billions of stars, dust and hydrogen gas, has a diameter of about 100,000 light years, and rotates slowly. The galaxies can be classified as 1) Spiral, 2) Elliptical and 3) Irregular, depending on their shape. Some of the brighter galaxies are elliptical, but spiral galaxies are much bigger than others. We live on the outer edge of the spiral type galaxy, called the Milky Way. The Milky Way as viewed from above looks like a disc of stars, not uniformly distributed in the plane of the disc, emerging from the nucleus of the galaxy. The stars in this galaxy rotate slowly about the centre.

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The inhabitants of the Earth can get only a side view of the Milky Way, because Earth itself is a part of this galaxy. The disc of stars, quite thick at the centre, represents relatively high concentration of stars at the centre of the galaxy. The Sun and the planets are located on one side of this disc, situated at about 30,000 light years from the centre of the galaxy. Having understood in general, the Universal systems, we shall now study the various bodies constituting the Universe, i.e. constellation, planets, etc.

CONSTELLATION: When we view thousands of twinkling stars on a clear moonless night, some of them appear arranged in groups or patterns which resemble animals, humans, shapes etc. These stars which appear in the form of closed recognisable groups and forms are called constellations. These are named after the objects which they seem to resemble ( See diagram at the end of the book). The astronomers have identified about eighty-eight such constellations (known as Nakshatras in Indian astronomy.) According to Hindu system, twenty-seven major constellations have been taken for use in Astrology. They are Ashwini to Revathi. Some major constellations, resembling animal, human beings are: 1) Ursa Major (Sapta Rishi mandala), 2) Ursa Minor (Dhruva, Matsya), 3) Orion (Mrigasira or Hunter), etc. Stars are heavenly bodies extremely hot, and have light of their own. Every star is a huge mass of hot gases (hydrogen, helium, and dust) with huge flames erupting out of it. A star is a hydrogen nucleus furnace, so big that it can hold itself together. Due to large distance from Earth, they appear to be small and twinkling, varying due to intensity of light with other stars residing above them. The star lying immediately above the North Pole is called the Pole Star (Dhruva Nakshatra). Pole Star appears to be stationary, while others appear to move east to west, as the Earth itself rotates about its axis from west to east. Since we are ourselves on Earth, the Earth appears to be stationary to us and all the stars appear to be moving in the sky. The stars are born while the hydrogen and helium gases combine with dust and get condensed due to gravitational collapse. The stars have a life-cycle of their own, and ultimately end in the formation of Neutron Stars, and Black Holes, after exploding as Supernova Stars. A Black Hole is an object with such a strong gravitational field that even light cannot escape from its surface. The Sun is also a star, which when compared to other stars is small and of average brightness. As it is nearer to Earth, it appears to be huge and brighter than others. The Sun does not twinkle. The surface temperature of the Sun is about 60000 C, while that of its core is 20 million degree selenium.

SOLAR SYSTEM: The Solar system, a part of the Galaxy, consists of planets, their satellites, thousands of heavenly bodies, like asteroids, comets, meteorites, etc. In this Solar System, Sun is the nucleus, and all the bodies revolve around it, with Sun’s gravitational force holding them together. The solar system came into existence about 5000 million years ago. The solar system consists of the following: Sun – this is the nucleus of the system. Nine planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, in increasing order of distance from the Sun.

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Asteroid belt, which lies between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Numerous satellites of the planets. Periodic comets. In order to understand these various bodies, it is necessary to know more about them for astronomical knowledge.

The Sun:

The Sun was formed about 5000 million years ago, from dense clouds of mainly hydrogen gas, with some helium and dust. This mixture shrank under its own gravitational force, to form a huge dark ball of hydrogen, called Protostar. The collisions of hydrogen molecules with Protostar, raised its temperature greatly, which started nuclear fusion reaction, resulting in helium being produced with tremendous amount of energy. This caused the Protostar, to emit heat and light, thus becoming the Sun.

Planets:

The residue gases hydrogen and helium, after the formation of the Sun, formed a disc shaped cloud around it. These were very cold and condensed to form small chunks of matter, called planets or Planetosimals. These in turn, started rearranging themselves by mutual collisions breaking up and re-grouping to form bigger objects, which in turn, started attracting small ones, by their gravitational force, to form various planets. Planets are solid heavenly bodies, which revolve around the Sun, in a closed elliptic pattern. They do not have their own light, but reflect the Sun’s light. Due to the nearness of the planets to the Earth, compared to the stars, they appear big and do not twinkle. They move around the Sun, from west to east, so that the relative positions of the planets keep changing daily. There are nine major planets, including Earth, in the increasing order of distance from the Sun as detailed below: Mercury (Budha), Venus (Sukra), Earth (Prithvi), Mars (Kuja), Jupiter (Guru), Saturn (Sani), Uranus (Indra), Neptune (Varuna), Pluto(Yama) The planets, Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars are called Terrestrial Planets, while Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune are called Gaseous planets (See diagram at the end of the book). We shall now study, the various planets, from the astronomical point in the above order: 1. Mercury

It is the closest to the Sun. It is very hot during day, and has no life on it. In fact, Mercury is the hottest planet of the Solar System. It has no atmosphere. Lack of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen, extreme heat, no water, no protective zone from radiation, makes this planet unfit for survival of life. This can be seen in the east before sunrise or in the west after sunset. 2. Venus

This is the brightest object in the night sky, other than the Moon, and is visible in the early morning, in the eastern sky, or early evening in the west. It reflects 75% of the light received by it, from the Sun and lies between Mercury and Earth. It is near the Sun, hence very hot. It has gases like carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and hydrogen. Due to lack of water, excess of carbon

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dioxide, cannot be absorbed, thus leading to high temperature which accounts for its unsuitability for any life on this planet. 3. Earth

Our planet Earth is 4500 million years old, like other members of the Solar System. After 800 million years of its formation, the Earth melted and molten material rearranged itself into three layers under gravity. The core of the Earth is largely fluid. This is the only planet, which has all the unique qualities to support a variety of living organisms, i.e. plants, animals, human beings etc. It provides suitable environmental conditions and protection against radiation from the Sun due to ozone umbrella around the Earth. The Earth has undergone so many changes till 2000 million years ago, when oxygen was available in plenty, making life possible on it. The Moon was formed, at about the same time as the Solar System. This is a natural satellite of the Earth, revolving around the Earth on a definite, regular path. Its diameter is about 1/4, and weight is 1/8 of the Earth. Its surface is covered with craters, dust, mountain ridges, plains, and seas. It is a hot, dry, airless, waterless, barren place. The Earth’s gravity has locked it in such a way that the revolution of the Moon is same as the Earth. There is absolutely no atmosphere and no forms of life on the Moon. 4. Mars

Mars is somewhat farther off from the Sun, and is quite a cold planet. Its atmosphere contains hydrogen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and very little of oxygen. Since the Solar energy, trapped in carbon dioxide molecules could not be retained, this planet became too cold to support the primitive form of life. The pressure at the surface is only about 1% of the atmospheric pressure at the Earth’s surface. 5. Jupiter

It is the biggest planet in our Solar System. It alone contains two-thirds of the mass of the entire planetary system, but only one-thousandth of the mass of the Sun. It has a rotation period of just less than ten hours. It produces bands of clouds, which show up as prominent belts and zones. It bulges at the equator, but is flat at the poles. There appears to be a gigantic cyclone in the atmosphere of Jupiter. Jupiter produces heat, and radio-signals from within. 6. Saturn

It is the second biggest planet of the Solar System. It is the most spectacular object, because of the system of rings girdling the planet. Its density is less than that of water. It rotates only slightly slower than Jupiter. It is considerably flattened at the poles, and stretched at its equator. Its two rings separated by the apparently empty space, extends from 60,000 to 300,000 Kms. above the planet. 7. Uranus

It is the third largest planet, and has an axis tilt of 820 while rotating. It has also got retrograde motion. It rotates on its axis, from east to west, whereas others rotate from west to east. The planet’s axis is nearly in plane of Earth’s orbit around the Sun. 8. Neptune

It is the smallest and last of the gaseous planets. It is slightly smaller than Uranus but more massive.

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9. Pluto

It is the outer most planet in the Solar System. The eccentricity of its orbit is the highest for any planet. The inclination of its orbital plane to the orbital of the Earth, is the highest for any planet, 170. The two planets which lie between the Sun and the Earth, i.e. Mercury and Venus, are called inner planets. Other planets, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn, are known as outer planets. Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, are termed extra-Saturian planets. Some important data regarding the planets is given in Table No.1. The main difference between planets and stars is that the stars twinkle, while planets do not. The relative positions of the planets keep changing daily but the stars are stationary in the sky. The Chart given below, gives the basic data regarding the planets, including Earth. This also gives the position of the planets with reference to the Sun. Table 1: The Solar System

Planets Radius Mass Mean Density

Mean dist to Sun

Surface Gravity

Period of Rotation

Period of Revolution

Number of Satellites

(----------Earth = 1-------------) Sun 109.1 3.33 ×

105 0.255 -- 28.000 25.38 d -- --

Mercury 0.382 0.055 0.99 0.387 0.378 59 d 88 d 0 Venus 0.949 0.815 0.95 0.723 0.894 244.35R 244.70 0 Earth 1 1 1 1 AU 1 [g] 1 day 365.26 d 1 (Moon) 0.273 0.0123 0.607 1 0.165 27.32 d 27.32 d 0 Mars 0.533 0.107 0.72 1.523 0.379 24 h, 37 m 687 2 Jupiter 11.19 317.9 0.24 5.203 2.54 9 h, 50 m 11.86 y 16* Saturn 9.41 95.17 0.13 9.539 1.07 10 h,15 m 29.46 y 17* Uranus 4.1 14.56 0.29 19.19 1.6 13 hR 84.02 y 15 Neptune 3.8 17.24 0.30 30.07 1.4 18 h, 30 m 164.81 y 2 Pluto 0.4 0.11 ? 0.54 39.52 0.41 6.3 dR 248.53 y 1

d = days, h = hours, m = minutes, R = retrograde rotation, (?) = unknown or uncertain, * = may be even more. AU = 1 Astronomical Unit = [1.496 x 1011 m] Radius of Earth = 6.38 x 106 m Mass of Earth = 5.977 x 1024 Kg Mean density of Earth = 5.497 x 103 Kg m3

Other Astronomical Bodies

Satellites

A satellite is a heavenly body that revolves round a planet. The moon is a satellite of the Earth. Planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Mars and Neptune, have their own satellites. The Planet Jupiter has 12, Saturn 10, Uranus 5, Mars 2, Neptune 2, while Earth has only one. The satellites revolve round the planets which in turn revolve round the Sun.

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Besides these satellites, in the modern era, many countries of the world have launched various satellites in space to probe, utilise and obtain information, which otherwise will be very difficult to obtain over the vast area of the world. The satellites are launched and kept in a stationary position in the sky, so as to cover one third of the Earth’s surface. Asteroids

These are very small planets of rock, and metal which revolve around the Sun, mainly between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. These are a belt of a sort of debris which somehow fails to assemble into a planet, and keep orbiting. The maximum size of the largest asteroid was found to be 750 Kms. wide. Comets

These are a collection of gas and dust which appear as a bright ball of light in the sky, with a long glowing tail, up to 800 Kms. length. The tail of a comet always points away from the Sun. They revolve around the Sun like planets, but the period of revolution is very large. Halley’s Comet is seen once in every 76 years. The comet becomes visible only when they come near the Sun, as the rays of the Sun make them glow. They do not last for a long time, because they lose some of their gases due to heat of the Sun, and only the dust particles are left behind in space. When the particles enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they burn up due to heat produced by air resistance and produce a shower of meteors or shooting stars. The latest comet to be seen is the Hale-Bopp comet. Meteors

These are heavenly bodies, from the sky, flashing like a bright streak of light for a moment across the sky. These are called shooting stars. Meteorite

A Meteor which does not burn up completely while entering the Earth’s atmosphere, and falls on the Earth is called Meteorite. They may range from small pebbles to huge blocks, weighing tonnes. A study of these will provide information about the nature of matter in outer space. We will therefore study these details with reference to their meaning and relationship with Astrology. It is essential to know the Indian system of Astrology along with the Western system to understand the mode of prediction and interpretation. We shall start with the basic terms that we come across in Astrology.

BASIC ASTROLOGICAL TERMS RELATED TO ASTRONOMICAL BODIES Zodiac (Raasi Chakra)

It is an imaginary belt stretching about 90 North and 90 South of the ecliptic, i.e. the path of the Sun within which all the planets and the Moon remain in course of their movements. In case of the Moon the deviation from the ecliptic is about +50. This belt is divided into twelve equal parts, each of thirty degrees, called signs or raasi. In both Indian and Western system there are twelve signs starting with Aries (Mesha) and ending with Pisces (Meena). Ecliptic

The mean plane of the Earth’s orbit, around the Sun or the apparent path of the Sun (Surya Veedhi), during the course of a year, is known as the Ecliptic. It is a great circle, cutting the

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celestial equator at an angle of 231/2 degrees (may vary from 210 59’ to 240 36’), and is called the obliquity of the ecliptic. Equinox

The two points of the celestial sphere, at which the ecliptic intersects the celestial equator, is called the equinox point. When the apparent longitude of the Sun is zero degrees, it is vernal equinox (starting point of Aries). When it is 1800 it is termed autumnal equinox i.e., staring point of Libra. At these points, the duration of day and night is equal. Celestial Equator

It is a great circle of celestial sphere drawn half way between North and South Poles and coincides with the plane of the Earth’s equator. Celestial Latitude

It is measured along the Ecliptic from the Vernal Equinox. It is the angular distance across the celestial sphere, measured North or South from the ecliptic, along the great circle passing through the poles, of the ecliptic and the object. Celestial Longitude

This is the angular distance of heavenly bodies from the Ecliptic. Sidereal Time

It is the measure of time defined by the diurnal motion of the vernal equinox. It is derived from the Earth’s rotation with respect of the stars. At any moment, the sidereal time is defined to be the west hour angle of the Vernal Equinoctial point (front point of Aries) from the upper meridian of the place. At mean noon, i.e. 12 hours local mean time on any day, the sidereal time is the Right Ascension of the mean Sun, i.e. the tropical mean longitude of the Sun at that moment as affected by mean aberration. The sidereal time for a particular place and time increases at the rate of 24 h.3m. 55.5536 sec. The duration of sidereal day in mean solar time is 23 h. 56m. 4.091 sec. Right Ascension (RA)

It is defined as the angular distance on the celestial sphere measured East wards, along the celestial equator from the vernal equinox to the hour circle passing through the celestial object. Hour Circle (Declination)

It is the great circle on the celestial sphere that passes through the celestial poles and is perpendicular to the celestial equator. Equator

This is an imaginary line running round the Earth half way between the two Poles, thus dividing the Earth into Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Longitude (Rekhamsha)

It is the distance East or West of the Meridian of Greenwich, measured at an angle, and expressed in terms of degrees, minutes and seconds. Greenwich is taken as reference i.e. zero degrees and any longitude to the East, is denoted by degrees E, and that on west - degrees W. E.g. Bangalore has its longitude 770 36’ E, i.e., it is at an angular distance of 770 36’ to the east of Greenwich.

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Latitude (Akshamsa)

The latitude of a place is the distance North or South of the Equator, measured as an angle. It is reckoned in degrees, minutes and seconds. The Equator is taken as the reference zero degrees, and the places lying on the northern side of the Equator, are denoted as degrees N, and those in the south as degrees S. E.g. the latitude of Bangalore is 120 58’N. Ayanamsa (Precession of equinoxes)

The celestial longitude of a heavenly body, measured from the first point of Aries is called the tropical or Sayana longitude. Due to precession of the equinoxes, the vernal equinox point recedes back over the ecliptic at the rate of about 50” per year, as a result of which the longitude of fixed stars, increase yearly, at the same rate. In order to stabilise the zodiac, a point is to be located as origin, which is permanently fixed on the ecliptic and this point is different from the vernal equinox. The distance between vernal equinox, and this point, is called Ayanamsa. The zodiac, starting from the fixed origin, is known as Sidereal or Nirayana Zodiac and this is followed by Hindu system of Astrology. To obtain the tropical longitudes, we have to add the Ayanamsa for the year and date to the Nirayana longitudes, and vice versa. There are different views on the Ayanamsa to be taken. The Nirayana and Sayana Zodiac coincided in 285 AD when the Ayanamsa was zero. For our studies, we have taken N.C Lahuri’s Ayanamsa for calculations.

MOVEMENT OF PLANETS: Table 2: Period of Transit through the Zodiac

Planet Transit time Planet Transit time Planet Transit time 1 Sun 365 1/4 days 4 Mercury 1 year 7 Saturn 30 years 2 Moon 27 days 7 hours 5 Jupiter 12 years 8 Rahu 18 months 3 Mars 18 months 6 Venus 1 year 9 Ketu 18 months Each planet has its own rate of motion depending upon its distance from Earth, i.e. nearer the planet, faster is its motion and farthest will be slow in motion. As an example, the Moon, which is nearer to Earth, travels very fast, while Saturn being the farther most will move very slowly. The planets do not maintain a uniform rate of motion due to various reasons. The above table will provide an idea of the time taken by each planet to trace the entire zodiac. All planets have direct motion, i.e. west to east, while Rahu and Ketu, always have reverse or retrograde motion, i.e. from east to west.

Astrological Terms related to Planetary Movements

Retrograde: When the distance of any planet from the Sun exceeds a particular point, it becomes retrograde, i.e. it loses the power of Sun’s gravitation, and consequently to gain it, it retrogrades or becomes vakri. Acceleration: When the planets come nearer to the Sun, due to Sun’s gravitation, Sun grows more and more powerful causing the velocity of the planet to accelerate, i.e. move faster. This is called Athichaira. All planets except Sun and Moon are subjected to acceleration, and

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retrogression. The planets during their movements, while before retrograde or acceleration, appear to stop for some time and proceed further. All the planets have non-uniform velocity, and an elliptical orbit. Combustion: This occurs when the planet conjoins the Sun, i.e. within 100 orbit of the Sun. Mercury, the planet, will be always near the Sun. Hence the combustion is not taken into account for this planet only. The effect will be that of the planet in debilitation. Obliquity: It is defined as the angle between the equatorial and orbital planes of a body. In the Earth, the obliquity of the ecliptic is the angle between the planes of the Equator and the ecliptic. Ephemeris: This is an essential reference book to provide most accurate and up to date astronomical data in advance. It contains the longitudes of all the planets, the day, the date, yoga, karana, thithis, etc. For any day of the year, for which the Ephemeris is prepared. It also provides the mode of usage, the method of calculation for the purpose casting a horoscope. Aspects: The apparent position of any of the planets or the Moon relative to the Sun, as observed from the Earth, and the angular relationship between two celestial bodies, is termed the “Aspect”. All planets aspect their seventh sign, while Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and the Nodes, have special aspects, i.e. Mars has 4th and 8th aspect, Jupiter, 5th and 9th, Saturn 3rd and 10th, Rahu and Ketu 3rd, 5th, 9th and 12th. The western system considers other modes of aspect as detailed below. The phenomena of aspect denote the differences in longitude of the apparent celestial bodies. The general effects of the same are indicated in the chart given below: Table 3: Characteristics of Signs

Symbol Name Degrees apart

Nature of effect

Conjunction 0 Variable

Semi- sextile 30 Mildly favourable

Semi-square 45 Adverse

Sextile 60 Very favourable

Quintile 72 Mildly favourable

Square 90 Extremely adverse

Trine 120 Extremely favourable

Sesquiquadrate 135 Mildly adverse

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Quincunx 150 Adverse

Opposition 180 Very adverse

Parallel - Variable

Contra-parallel - Variable

Signs:

Each of the twelve equal parts of the zodiac is called a sign. Since the ascendant and the planets are fitted into these signs, according to the casting of horoscopes, it is essential to understand the various general classifications of the signs, i.e. direction, gender, character, etc.

Characteristics of Signs

1. Tendency:

a. Positive, odd, masculine signs: Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, Aquarius. The positive signs denote an assertive, bold, expressive, active, offensive nature, more fortunate. If the birth takes place in a male sign, the appearance, qualities are of masculine nature. A positive sign gives vitality. b. Negative, even, female signs: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, Pisces. The negative signs are more self-repressive and less out going. They have passive quality. Birth in negative gives a feminine appearance and qualities, and not very vigorous. 2. Direction:

Northern signs: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo. Southern signs: Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces. 3. Time:

Equinoctial signs: Mesa (Vernal equinoctial), Tula (Autumnal equinoctial). Equinoctial means equal day and night, i.e. when the Sun is in the intersecting point of celestial equator, and the point of intersection i.e. end of Pisces and starting of Aries i.e. 21st March,, and ending of Virgo and starting of Libra, i.e. 23rd September. Tropical Signs: Cancer and Capricorn. These indicate the summer and Winter signs. The days are longest when the Sun enters Cancer, and night longest when the Sun enters Capricorn. 4. Elements:

Fiery signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius --Spirit. Earthly signs: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn --Body. Air signs: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius --Mind Watery signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces --Soul. 5. Qualities:

Each category of the four signs, i.e. moveable, fixed and common signs, has a common factor, or quality, or expression, which are to be applied differently.

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* Moveable: Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn. This denotes movement from one place to another without going back. It shows enthusiasm, love, ambition, forcefulness, ability to complete plans in short time. It loves changes and reforms, independent spirit, self-assertive. * Fixed: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius; these give strong will, roused, desired nature, and stamina and persistency, with strong and determined will, firm mental nature. * Common sign: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces. Dual nature and sudden fluctuating nature, sensitive, cannot exert their will. * Fruitful signs: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces; the cusps in these signs indicate fruitful events. * Semi fruitful: Taurus, Libra, Capricorn. * Barren or Sterile: Aries, Gemini, Leo, and Virgo. If these signs fall in 5th or 11th cusps, they denote no progeny. * Mute: All watery signs i.e. Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces, i.e. dumb. * Violent: Aries, Scorpio, they know no fear. They undertake any enterprise with confidence and are not bothered about risks. * Human: Gemini, Virgo, Aquarius, first half of Sagittarius. These are called as human signs as they have humans as symbols. * Voice: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius, Virgo and Sagittarius are also considered as Voice signs. For Voice there must be air, so all airy signs are grouped under voice signs. * Bestial: Aries, Taurus, Leo, Capricorn, second half of Sagittarius. These are said to be strong, and the ascendant will have qualities of the corresponding beasts. * Dual: Gemini, Sagittarius and Pisces, i.e. plurality. 6. Period of Ascension:

Signs of short ascension: Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, and Gemini, i.e. they ascend in a short time. Sign of long ascension: Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, and Sagittarius. They take longer time to ascend. The above apply to the places in the Northern Hemisphere. This must be reversed for places in the Southern Hemisphere. Pristodhya: (rising from hind parts, Nocturnal sign) Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Sagittarius, Capricorn. Sirshodhya: (rising with head, Diurnal sign) - Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio and Aquarius. Ubhayodaya: (rising both ways): Gemini, Pisces. 7. Direction:

Aries, Taurus East Libra, Scorpio West Gemini Southeast Sagittarius Northwest

Cancer, Leo South Capricorn, Aquarius North

Virgo Southwest Pisces Northeast

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8. Caste:

Priestly (Brahmin) - Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces Warrior (Kshatria) - Aries, Leo, Sagittarius. Trader (Vaishya) - Gemini, Libra, Aquarius. Labour (Sudra) - Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.

9. Relating to Human Parts (Parts of Kalapurusha)

Symbols, signs, colour, stature and abode of different zodiac signs are given in Table 4: 10. Rulers:

Aries, Scorpio Mars Leo Sun Taurus, Libra Venus Sagittarius, Pisces Jupiter. Gemini, Virgo Mercury Capricorn, Aquarius Saturn Cancer Moon

11. Exaltation, debilitation of different planets:

Sign Exaltation of Planets Debilitation of Planets Moola Trikona 1. Aries Sun Saturn Mars 2. Taurus Moon, Rahu Ketu Moon 3. Gemini ---- ---- --- 4. Cancer Jupiter Mars --- 5. Leo ---- Sun 6. Virgo Mercury Venus Mercury 7. Libra Saturn Sun Venus 8. Scorpio Ketu Rahu --- 9. Sagittarius ---- ---- Jupiter 10. Capricorn Mars Jupiter --- 11. Aquarius -- -- Saturn 12. Pisces Venus Mercury -- 12. Lean (Sushka): Signs: Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, and Aquarius.

Aries Head Libra Navel Taurus Face and throat Scorpio Private parts Gemini Neck, arms Sagittarius Thighs Cancer Heart Capricorn Knee Leo Stomach Aquarius Legs Virgo Waist Pisces Feet

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13. Raasi Manam: (Extent that the sign indicates). This indicates the rising period of the twelve signs of the zodiac. If the division of zodiac into twelve signs be taken to commence from the equinoctial point, their rising periods will not vary for any particular place. Aries and Pisces – 20 (50%) Taurus and Aquarius – 24 (60%) Gemini and Capricorn – 38 (70%) Cancer and Sagittarius – 32 (80%) Leo and Scorpio – 36 (90%) Virgo and Libra – 40(100%) 14. Philosophy:

Dwaitha --- Aries (Mesha), Taurus (Vrishaba), Gemini (Mithuna), Cancer (Karkata) Adwaitha --- Leo (Simha), Virgo (Kanya), Libra (Tula), Scorpio ( Vrishchika) Visistadwaitha -- Dhanu (Sagittarius), Capricorn (Makara), Aquarius (Kumbha), Meena (Pisces) 15. Disability:

Blind Signs: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo. Deaf Signs: Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn. Lame Signs: Aquarius, Pisces. Aries, Taurus, Leo: Blindness increases during mid-night. Gemini, Cancer, and Virgo: Gives bad results in afternoon, otherwise benefic. Libra, Scorpio: More deaf during afternoon. Sagittarius, Capricorn: More deaf during night. Aquarius, Pisces: More lame during sun rise, sunset and junction (Sandhi kala). 16. Place:

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces: Inner circle (Garba). Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn: Entrance (Dwara). Scorpio, Leo, Taurus, Aquarius: External circle (Bahya). 17. Matter:

Minerals (Dhatu): Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn Root (Moola): Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius. Life (Jeeva): Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces. 18. Visible/ Invisible Signs:

The six signs from the Ascendent are called Invisible signs, while the seventh to twelfth are the visible signs. 19. Position of the Sun:

Adhomuka Raasi: The sign occupied by the Sun and its quadrants (1st, 4th, 7th and 10th) are called Adhomuka or Down faced signs. If Sun is in Aries, Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn are the Adhomuka signs. Adhomukha Signs: (signs facing down). Signs occupied by Sun, and 4th, 7th and 10th from the Sun. Oordwamukha Raasi: The signs preceding the one occupied by the Sun and in quadrants are known as Oordwamukha or face upwards signs. If Aries is occupied by the Sun, than Pisces

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(sign just left to the Sun i.e. preceding signs), Gemini, Virgo and Sagittarius are called Oordwamukha signs. Ooedhva Mukha Signs: (signs facing up), are the 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th signs from the Sun. Thiryangmukha: (Faces turned backward) The signs square or in quadrant to the sign succeeding the one occupied by the Sun are called the Thiryang mukha signs, i.e. if Sun is in Aries, Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius are called Thiryang mukha signs. Tiryangmukha Signs: 2nd, 5th, 8th and 11th signs from the Sun. 20. Classification of Signs with respect to Ascendent Signs:

Ascendent: The rising sign at the time of birth in the horizon is called the Ascendent or Lagna, or First House. Due to constant movement of the zodiac, the Ascendent changes at the rate of about 2 hours. The Ascendent at sunrise, will be the same as per the Sun’s position and changes. Quadrants (Kendra 900): The Ascendent, the fourth, seventh and tenth houses from it are called the Quadrants. They are also known as Kantaka (malefic) and Chatushtaya signs. Trine (Trikona 1200). The Ascendent, the fifth and the ninth houses from it are called the Trine. These are very important and the lords of these houses are very beneficial to the native. Succeedent (Panapara) Signs: These are the signs which succeed the quadrants, i.e. second, fifth, eighth and eleventh. Cadent (Apokloma) Signs: These signs succeed the succeedent, i.e. third, sixth, ninth and twelfth signs. Chatursara Signs: The fourth and eighth signs from Ascendent are called Chathursara signs. Upachaya Signs: The third, sixth, tenth and eleventh signs from the Ascendent are called Upachaya signs. Apachaya Signs: All the signs other than Upachaya signs are called Apachaya or Peeda signs, i.e. first, second, fourth, fifth, seventh, eighth, and twelfth signs. Badhaka Sthana Signs: Signs shown against each are said to produce problems or reduce the benefice results, and their lords though benefic/malefic will mitigate the results compared to the ones the native should have enjoyed as per his horoscope. Moveable Signs ---- 11th sign, Fixed Signs --- 9th sign, Common Signs ---- 7th sign. Maraka Sthana: (Death inflicting Sign): The second and the seventh signs are generally termed as maraka sthana. These houses are said to cause loss of longevity. The lords of these house, the planets posited in or aspecting these houses are called marakas or death inflicting planets. These planets in their major or sub-periods will cause death. Those with Badhaka Sthana lords and signs cause problems to the native, even though they are benefic.

Chapter 2 PLANETARY CHARACTERISTICS

It is essential to note the general characteristic of the planets as these may be required for the prediction purposes, i.e. the general effects caused on the native’s life or to know the results in Horay astrology.

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In Indian astrology, only nine planets, viz. Ravi, Chandra, Kuja, Budha, Guru, Sukra, Sani, Rahu and Ketu are taken into consideration. It will be necessary to know the equivalent names as per western system and also the symbols as used in the Ephemerius. Indian Name Western Name Symbol 1. Ravi, Surya Sun 2. Chandra, Soma Moon 3. Kuja, Anjarak Mars 4. Budha Mercury 5. Guru, Brihaspathi Jupiter 6. Sukhra Venus 7. Sani Saturn 8. Rahu Dragon’s head 9. Ketu Dragon’s tail

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS 1. Sex

Sun, Mars and Jupiter --- Male. Moon, Venus, Rahu ---- Female. Mercury, Saturn, Ketu --- Eunuchs. 2. Caste

Jupiter, Venus ⇒ Brahmins. Sun, Mars ⇒ Kshatriyas. Moon, Mercury ⇒ Vaishya Saturn ⇒ Sudhra. Rahu, Ketu ⇒ Outcaste 3. Nature

Natural benefic: Jupiter, Venus, Waxing Mars Natural benefic: Mercury, when alone or with benefic Natural malefic: Mercury with Malefic Natural malefic: Sun, Mars, Saturn, Rahu, Ketu In Western system, Sun is treated as natural benefic. Moon is treated as waxing from the 8th day of the Bright half (Shukla paksha), up to 8th day of the Dark half (Krishna paksha), i.e. 720 with respect to the Sun’s position, (or longitude). Other days it is treated as waning. 4. Qualities

Sun, Moon, Jupiter --- Satwic (good or pure). Mercury, Venus -- Rajas (emotional, passionate, active) Saturn, Rahu, Ketu -- Tamasic (dark, ignorant).

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5. Direction

Sun East. Jupiter Northeast Moon Northwest Venus Southeast Mars South Saturn West Mercury North Rahu/Ketu Southwest. 6. Colour

Sun Dark red Mercury Green Moon White Saturn Black Venus White Rahu Dark honey coloured, black Mars Deep red Ketu Brown Jupiter Golden 7. Seasons (Ritu)

Venus rules over Vasantha Sun, Mars over Greeshma Moon over Varsha Mercury over Sharad Jupiter over Hemant Saturn over Shashi 8. Gems

Sun Manikya or Ruby Venus Heera or Diamond Moon Moti or Pearl Saturn Neela or Sapphire Mars Moonga or Coral Rahu Gomedha or Mercury Panna or Emerald Ketu Vaidurya or Cat’s eye. Jupiter Pushyarag, Puskraj or Topaz 9. Metal

Sun Copper Venus Silver Moon Bell metal, Panchloha Saturn Iron and Steel Mars Copper Rahu Lead Mercury Lead Ketu Jupiter Gold 10. Taste

Sun Pungent Jupiter Sweet Moon Saltish Venus Sour Mars Bitter Saturn Astringent Mercury Mixed 11. Age represents a person aged

Sun 50 years Jupiter 30 years Moon 30 years Venus 16 years Mars 16 years Saturn, Rahu,

Ketu 100 years

Mercury 20 years

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12. Senses

Sun, Mars Eye (Sight) Jupiter Ear (Sound) Moon, Venus Tongue (Taste) Saturn, Rahu, Ketu Skin (Touch) Mercury Nose (Smell) 13. Elements (Tatwas)

Sun, Mars Fire (Agni, Tejus) Jupiter Ether (Akash) Moon, Venus Water (Jala) Saturn Wind (Vayu) Mercury Earth (Prithvi) 14. Physical Constituents

Sun Bones Jupiter Fat Moon Blood Venus Semen Mars Marrow Saturn Muscle Mercury Skin 15. Planetary Cabinet

Sun King Jupiter and Venus Ministers Moon Queen Saturn, Rahu and Ketu Servants Mercury Prime Minister Mars Commander-in-chief 16. Exaltation and Debilitation:

Planet Sign owned Moola trikona Sign of exaltation Sign of debilitation Sun Leo (Simha) Leo Aries 100 Libra 100 Moon Cancer

(Karkataka) Taurus Taurus 30 Scorpio 30

Mars Aries, Scorpio Aries Capricorn 280 Cancer 280 Mercury Gemini, Virgo Virgo Virgo 150 Pisces 150 Jupiter Sagittarius,

Pisces Sagittarius Cancer 50 Capricorn 50

Venus Taurus, Libra Libra Pisces 270 Virgo 270 Saturn Capricorn,

Aquarius Aquarius Libra 200 Aries 200

Rahu -- -- Taurus Scorpio Ketu -- -- Scorpio Taurus

17 .Aspects

All planets have 7th aspect Jupiter has in addition 5th and 9th Full aspect Mars has in addition 4th and 8th Saturn has in addition 3rd and 10th

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Besides the above planets are said to have aspect at certain house or planets posited in them, i.e. mode of looking at house from one occupied by them --- 3rd and 10th ⇒ 1/4 aspect 5th and 9th ⇒ 1/2 aspect 4th and 8th ⇒ 3/4 aspect 7th ⇒ Full aspect 18. Presiding deities

Sun Rudra/Shiva Jupiter Brahman or Shiva Moon Parvathi Venus Laxmi Mars Karthikeya (Subramanya) Saturn Rudra Mercury Vishnu

19. Physical Characteristics

PLANET LIMB SHAPE STATURE Sun Head Quadrangle Normal height Moon Face Circular Short Mars Chest Drum shaped Short Mercury Hips Triangular Tall Jupiter Belly Elliptical Tall Venus Pelvis & genitals Octangular Normal huge Saturn Thighs Window Short Rahu Hands Single line Tall Ketu Legs -do- -do- These assist in the preparation of lockets, rings etc. to be worn to propitiate the afflicted planet. 20. Planetary Bodies

Mercury, Jupiter and Venus -- Bipeds (two legged) Sun, Mars and Saturn -- Quadrupeds (four legged) Moon, Rahu --- Centriped (without legs) 21. Planetary Period

Saturn, Rahu ⇒ One year Venus ⇒ Fifteen days Sun ⇒ Six months Mars ⇒ One day Mercury ⇒ Two months Moon ⇒ Forty-eight minutes Jupiter ⇒ One month 22. Minerals

Moon, Mars, Saturn, Rahu --- Dhatu (mineral plants) Sun, Venus --- Moola (Vegetables) Mercury, Jupiter --- Jeeva

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23. Karakatwas

Sun Father Venus Spouse Moon Mother Saturn Servants Mars Younger coborns Rahu Maternal grandfather Mercury Maternal uncle, adopted

son Ketu Paternal grandfather

Jupiter Children 24. Diseases caused by Planets

Sun Fever, dominated by liver and heart, eye diseases, dental, nerves

Jupiter Liver, phlegmatic, ear, cancer, tumours, jaundice

Moon Sleeping diseases, pulmonary, digestive problems, blood impurities

Venus Loss of semen, venereal diseases, urinary problems

Mars Blood pressure, bilious fever, heart problems, ulcer

Saturn Phlegmatic, urinal, paralysis, rheumatism, cerebral diseases, chronic diseases

Mercury Nervousness, brain, skin, anaemia

Rahu & Ketu

Epidemics through poisonous things, cancer, eczema, leprosy, diseases which are not easy to diagnose.

25. Humours ruled by

Sun Bile, heart, brain, head, eye, bone Moon Breast, saliva, womb, water, blood, lymphatic and glandular system Mars Bile, ears, nose, forehead, sinews, fibre and muscular tissue. Mercury Abdomen, tongue, lungs, nerve centres, bowels, bile, muscular tissues Jupiter Phlegm, blood, thighs, kidneys, flesh, fat, arterial system Venus Ovaries, genitative system, semen, water and phlegm Saturn Feet, wind, acids, knees, marrow. 26. Planetary Relationships

Even though the very thought of imagining the planetary relationship, i.e. friendship or enmity does not is not correct i.e. the entire planetary force combined together leads to the form of one prime energy. Depending upon the nature of the cosmic theory, it is the microcosmic and micro cosmic powers, likes and dislikes of the planetary tatwas are derived. In astrology, for general purpose of prediction, the following table is utilised:

Planet Friends Enemies Neutrals

1. Sun Moon, Mars and Mercury Saturn, Venus, Rahu, Ketu Mercury

2. Moon Sun, Mercury Rahu, Ketu Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn

3. Mars Jupiter, Sun, Moon Mercury, Rahu, Ketu Saturn, Venus

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4. Mercury Sun, Kethu Moon Saturn, Mars, Jupiter, Rahu, Ketu

5. Jupiter Mars, Moon, Sun Mercury, Venus Saturn

6. Venus Mercury, Saturn, Rahu, Ketu Sun, Moon Jupiter, Mars

7. Saturn Mercury, Venus, Rahu, Ketu Sun, Moon, Mars Jupiter

8. Rahu/Ketu Mercury, Venus, Saturn Sun, Moon, Mars, Jupiter

Chapter 3 HOROSCOPES

The horoscope is a heavenly map depicting the position of the planets and Ascendent at the time of birth of a child or a question (Horary). The casting of the chart i.e. the horoscope is drawn in different types based on the region. The systems are of two categories, (1) Tropical (Sayana) and (2) Sidereal (Nirayana). While Tropical denotes Western system, Sidereal is of Hindu or Indian system.

1. South Indian Type:

2) North Indian Type: 3) Eastern and North Eastern Type:

Meena Mesha Lagna

Vrishaba Mithuna

Kataka

Simha

Kanya Tula Vrischika

Dhanus

Makara

Kumba

Rasi Chart Navamsa Chart

1 Lagna = Mesha

Mesha 1 = Lagna

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4) Western Type:

HOUSE (CUSPS/BHAVAS) House/Bhavas are different from the signs (Raasis). They denote the starting and extent of the different cusps, which have an affect on the native’s life. These give the exact location of the planets with respect to the house, and may not be the same as in signs. These account for the discrepancies in the prediction, based only on sign charts. The different signification’s of the houses and the significance thereof has been given in general. The reader will be able to form an idea about their effects on the native. I Self Sun II Dhana Jupiter III Bhatru Mars IV Mathru (Mother)

Vidya (Education) Bhoomi (Lands)

Moon Mercury, Mars, Saturn, Rahu Mars

V Puthra (Children) Jupiter VI Shathru (Enemy )

Roga (Sickness) Runa (Debt)

Mars, Saturn and Rahu Mars Mars, Rahu

VII Kalathru (Partner) Venus IX Pithru (Father)

Bhagya (Wealth) Sun Jupiter

X Karma (Profession)

Mercury, Sun, Jupiter, Saturn

XI Lahba (Gain) Jupiter, Mars XII Vyaya Saturn, Rahu

1 2 3 4

6 5

7

8 9 10 11 12 Ascendent =

MESHA

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(Expenditure) After fixing the Karakas against each house, we now proceed to know the general signification of the houses. To predict any event, it is very essential to consider the relevant houses and the signification. For example: (1) Regarding marriage: Consider houses 2, 7 and 11 along with (Shukra), Venus. (2) Regarding children: consider houses 2, 5 and 11 along with (Guru) Jupiter. (3) Regarding professions: Houses 1,6, 10 and 11 are to be considered. (4) Regarding education: Houses 1, 2, 4, 9, 11 are to be considered, and so on.

The Twelve Bhavas (Houses):

The general signification of the twelve hours Ascendent is called the Ist Bhava or Ist House. I House or Bhava: Beginning of Life, childhood, environment, physical body, health, character, limbs, body, misery, strength, dignity, appearance, happiness, birth place, fame, dreams. II House or Bhava: Family, face, right eye, wealth, food, nails, friendship, effort in equisition of wealth, worldly attachment, jewellery, precious stones, imagination, tongue, nose, teeth, sources of death. III House or Bhava: Brothers and sisters, neighbours, communication, writings, short journey, courage, ears, throat, growth, ability, gallantry, heroism, correspondence, change of residence, rumours, collar bone, arms and nervous system, P & T, phones. IV House or Bhava: Mental peace, mother, house, relatives, enjoyments, conveyances, ancestral property, education, neck and shoulders, vehicle, domestic environment, private affairs, farms, orchards, mines, hidden treasure, water ponds, rivers, kingdoms, friends, land, dwelling place, cows, horses, intuition ability. V House or Bhava: Children, intelligence, position, documents, discriminating power, institution, minister, pregnancy, foresight, prayers, wisdom, deep thinking, heredity, immorality, belly, inclinations, love, pleasure, recreation, amusement, sports, competitive activities, earning from speculation like lottery and gambling, religious minded, wisdom, spiritual practical VI House or Bhava: Disease, enemies, thieves, cuts and wounds, miseries, debt, maternal uncle, activity, poison, untimely meals, urinal trouble, service, dysentery, nursing servants, tenants, cattle. VII House or Bhava: Wife, partner in business, conjugal life, litigation, danger to life, illegal bondage, influence in foreign countries, marriage, chastity (prativartha), sex-organs, sexual union, deviation from spiritual path, secret acts, over throw of the enemies, urinary organs, trade or speculation, diplomacy, business tact, martial happiness, husband, secret points of life, nervousness. VIII House or Bhava: Longevity, accident, fear, calamity, anxieties, long standing properties, giving loan, house of death, inheritance, legacies, insurance, pension, gratuity, misfortune, sorrow, strive, disgrace, delay, disappointment, loss, theft, robbery, secret organs, anus, degradation, environment of death.

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IX House or Bhava : Faith, fortune, religious, philosophy and spiritual beliefs, meditation, father, preceptor (Vidhi), purva punya, teaching dharma, institution and forethought, sacrifices and charity, sea voyage, air travel, long journey, foreign travel, higher education, knees, purity of mind, medicinal drugs, penance, grandchildren, imagination, devotion, love, sympathy, long lasting fame, communication with spirits, leadership. X House or Bhava: Karma, honour, name and fame, power and prestige, success and status, respect, reputation, responsibilities, permanency in service, profession, promotion, high position, advancement, father, religious functions, rank and renown, pilgrimage, honour from Government, thighs, trade, honourable living, occupation, energy, means of livelihood, religious knowledge. XI House or Bhava: Gains in every way, all kinds of receipts, the ear, the knee, acquisition of wealth, friends, society, community, elder brother, desire and its fulfilment, success, recovery from illness, profits, prosperity, personality, ornaments. XII House or Bhava: Loss, bed comfort, extravagant expenditure, sympathy, pity, moksha, the two feet, discharge of debt, left eye, termination of one’s appointment, waste in investment, donation, separation, family, distant place, trouble, sorrow and sin, poverty, imprisonment, confinement in hospital, assassination, fraud, misfortune, left ear, left eye, life in a foreign place, scandal, disgrace. 1st house Tanu Bhava (Body) 2nd house Dhana Bhava (Wealth) 3rd house Sahaja Bhava (Brothers) 4th house Sukha Bhava (All kinds of

happiness) 5th house Sutha Bhava (Child) 6th house Ripu Bhava (Enemies) 7th house Jaya Bhava (Wife or husband) 8th house Ayur Bhava (Longevity) 9th house Dharma Bhava (Religious

activities) 10th house Karma Bhava (Occupation) 11th house Labha Bhava (All kinds of gains) 12 house Vyaya Bhava (All kinds of

expenditure)

YOGAS: Depending upon the various relative positions of the planets, yogas are said to form and these have effects on the native. Some of the important yogas listed below will be useful while predicting: Sunapha Yoga: Planets, except Sun, in the 2nd house from Moon, causes this Yoga. Self earned property, high position, intelligent, good reputation and wealth.

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Anapha Yoga: Planets, except Sun in 12th house from Moon causes this yoga. Well built, majestic appearance, good reputation, fond of pleasure and dress. May renounce the world in later life. Dhrdhara Yoga: If planets are posited on either side of Moon, cause this Yoga. Native will be blessed with much wealth and conveniences. Kunudhruma Yoga: When no planets are posited on either side of Moon, this Yoga is formed. Person dirty, miserable, poor, dependent, swindler. Vesi Yoga: If planets other than Moon are in 2nd house, this Yoga is formed. Fortunate, happy, virtuous, famous, aristocratic. Vasi Yoga: If planets other than Moon are in the 12th, this Yoga is formed. Native, happy, prosperous, liberal, favourite of ruling class. Hamsa Yoga: When Jupiter is posited in quadrant (Kendra), being his position of exaltation, or his own house, this Yoga is caused. Handsome body, respected by others, pure in mind, righteous. Malavya Yoga: Venus occupying his own house and Kendra causes this Yoga. Well developed body, strong will, wealthy, happy, repute, intelligent. Sass Yoga: This is caused if Saturn occupies Kendra which should be his own or exalted house. Will command servant, questionable character, wicked nature, will covert other’s property. Ruchaka Yoga: Mars in Kendra and Exaltion, own house causes this Yoga. Strong physique, famous, ruddy complexion, attractive, long life. Bhadra Yoga: Caused by Mercury occupying Kendra this should be his own or exaltation house. Strong, well developed body, will be helpful to relatives, long life. The yogas detailed above under serial nos. 7 to 11 are known as Pancha Mahapurusha Yogas. Gaja Kesari Yoga: This is caused when Jupiter is quadrant with the Moon. Polite, generous, lasting reputation will hold good position. Budha - Adhitya Yoga: If Mercury joins Sun, this Yoga is formed. Highly intelligent, skilled, good reputation, comfort and happiness. Shadbhava: Planetary conjunctions, placement and the various states of existence (avasthas) on account of their incessant motions, play an important role in the determination of the strength or weakness of the planets in a horoscope. The planets have been categorised to be in any one of the ten states of existence or avasthas, i.e. Deeptha (exaltation), Swastha (own house), Sakitha (benefice sub-division), Sakta (retrogression) Peedya (posited in the last quarter of sign), Deena (in inimical sign), Vikala (combustion), Khala (debilitation), Bheeta (acceleration), Muditha Each one of the above signifies a particular effect on the native. Besides these states of existence, the planet is supposed to get a particular share of strength according to its position in a horoscope. This strength is numerically measured by certain units called “Rupas”. According to Indian astrology, there are six kinds of strengths, known as Shadbalas.

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Sthana Bala (Positional): A planet, as a result of occupying its own sign of exaltation, own house, a friendly house or in its own shadvarga, own moola trikona, gets this positional strength. Digbala (Directional): Mercury and Jupiter get their directional strength in the Ascendent (East), while Sun and Mars get in the South (10th), Saturn in the West (7th), Venus and Moon in the 4th (North) houses. Chestabala (Motional): Sun and Moon get their strength in Uttarayana, i.e. the northern course of the Sun. When these two planets are in signs Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus and Gemini, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn get their strength when in retrogression or with full Moon. When Jupiter, Venus, Saturn and Mercury are with Mars, they are supposed to be defeated in a planetary war and get their strength. Planets have eight types of motion - Vakra, Athivakra, Kutila, Manda, Mandathere, Sama, Seegra and Athiseegra. In planetary war time, planets in the northern direction are strong and will win. The vanquished planets will have feeble strength. Kalabala (Temporal): Moon, Mars, Saturn are powerful during night, while Sun, Jupiter and Venus are in the day. Mercury is always powerful. Planets in their week days, months and year, are deemed to be powerful. Malefic during dark half (Krishna paksha), and the benefics during bright half (Sukra paksha) of the lunar months are powerful. Jupiter is strong always. Mercury during sunrise, Sun at noon, Saturn in the evening, Moon in first part of night, Venus at midnight and Mars in the last part of the night, have temporal strength. Drigbala (Aspect): This is the strength obtained by the aspect to which each planet is subjected. Aspects of benefics give full strength, while malefic take it away. These aspects are classified as (Also see Table 3): Conjunction (00) Opposition (1800) Trine (1200) Square (900) Sextile (600) Parallel. Naisargikabala (Permanent/Natural): Each planet produces a particular measure of strength permanently irrespective of its position. The order of strength will be Sun, Moon, Venus, Jupiter, Mercury, Mars and Saturn. Sun is the strongest and Saturn is the weakest. Kshethrabala: Venus and Star in female signs and other planets are strong in male signs. Sthanabala wealth and progress due to exaltation, health due to trine, finance, corns, wealth, happiness due to own house, fame, brilliance (Tejas), permanent wealth due to financial house, financial gain through Govt., Prasidha to the native.

VARGAS: Chart prepared by further finer divisions of a sign is known as Varga. The Shadasha Vargas are:

1. Raasi (300) All effects in general 9. Shodasamsa (17/8) Happiness/ Vehicles

2. Hora (150) Wealth 10. Shasmamsa (1/2) Good/bad results

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3. Drekkana (100) Brothers. 11. Chaturamsha (71/2) Net Assets. 4. Navamsa (31/3

0) Partner 12. Vimshamsa (11/2) Upasana 5. Dwadasamse (21 /2

0) Parent 13.Chaturvimsamsa (11/2) Education

6. Trimshamse (1) Happines, misery 14. Bhamsa (11/2) Strength of star.

7. Sampthamsa (42/7) Children 15. Khavademsa (45) Auspicious/inauspicious effects

8. Dasama (3) Profession 16. Akshavedamsa Character/conduct Besides the above, the following amsas are also in use by some astrologers: 1. Panchamsa (5) Spiritualism 4. Asthamsa (33/4) Longevity

2. Shastamsa (6) Health 5. Nadiamsa (12’) Past/future destiny of native.

3. Ekadasmas (28/11) Profit/loss 13 Vargas: They are if a planet occupies in -- 2 Vargas it is called Parigathamsa 3. Vargas it is called Uttamamsa 4. Vargas it is called Gopuramsa 5. Vargas it is called Simhasanamsa 6. Vargas it is called Panvanthanamsa 7 & 8 Vargas it is called Devalokamsa. 9 Vargas it is called Kusumamsa or Vyasamamsa 10. Vargas it is called Kumkumamsa or Sivamsa 11 Vargas it is called Indramsa or Bjavasadamsa 12 Vargas it is called Sarvamsa 13 Vargas it is called Varshehikamsa

Chapter 4 HINDU ALMANAC (PANCHANGA)

Panchanga means the five limbs i.e. Thithi (Day), Vara (Weekday), Nakshatra (Constellation), Yoga and Karana. Panchanga like Ephemeris, provides information regarding the various data i.e. position of the planet in regards to the constellation, its duration. It also provides the information regarding the extent of the Thithi, Yoga and Karana for the particular date and time of birth. It also provides the expired period of Lagna (Ascendent) at the sunrise. Panchanga is based on the week day which starts from sunrise to sunrise of the next day, unlike the Western system, which starts from midnight to midnight. An example from the Panchanga will make it clear regarding the information provided by it. The Hindu system denotes the birth time as Ghatis and Vighatis, from sunrise. Let us know the equivalent with reference to the hours and minutes. 1 hour = 21/2 Ghatis, or 1 Ghatti = 24 minutes 1 minute = 21/2 Vighatis, or 1 Vighatis = 24 seconds It is essential to convert the birth time from Indian Standard Time to Ghatis and Vighatis, before proceeding to cast a horoscope.

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With the basic data provided in the Panchanga, complete information can be filled in the horoscope format. After casting the horoscope we must check the effects of the year, week day, constellation, Thithi, Yoga, and Karana, on the native, and the following gives the general effects.

YEARS (VARSHA): The Hindu Astrology has adopted 60 years as cycle, and it starts from Prabhava and ends with Akshya. The cycle repeats after every 60 years. The following table gives the name of the years and their classification, under each sign of the Zodiac, as well as the general effect of the year on the native born in that year. For purpose of Astrology, the Solar year and Solar month only have to be considered. In India, some people celebrate the New Year as per the Lunar system, and others as per the Solar system. According to the Hindu system, these 60 years forming a cycle in a man’s life has been given a name, and these repeat after every 60 years. Year Names Year Names Year Names Year Names 1 Prabhava 16 Chitrabhanu 31 Hevilambi 46 Paridhavi 2 Vibhava 17 Swabhanu 32 Vilambi 47 Pramadicha 3 Sukla 18 Tarana 33 Vikari 48 Ananda 4 Pramodoota 19 Parthiva 34 Sharvari 49 Rakshasa 5 Prajotpatti 20 Vyaya 35 Plava 50 Anala 6 Aangirasa 21 Sarvajitu 36 Shubhakritu 51 Pingala 7 Srimukha 22 Sarvadhari 37 Shobakritu 52 Kalayukti 8 Bhava 23 Virodhi 38 Krodhi 53 Sidharti 9 Uva 24 Vikruthi 39 Vishvavasu 54 Roudri 10 Dhatu 25 Khara 40 Parabhava 55 Durmathi 11 Ishwara 26 Nandana 41 Plavanga 56 Dundubhi 12 Bahudhanu 27 Vijaya 42 Keelaka 57 Rudhirodgari 13 Pramadhi 28 Jaya 43 Soumya 58 Rakthaschi 14 Vikrama 29 Manmatha 44 Sadharana 59 Krodhana 15 Vishu 30 Dhurmukhi 45 Virodhikritu 60 Akshaya Classification of the Years as per Zodiac signs: Years Zodiac sign Years Zodiac sign Pramadi – Swabhanu

Aries (Mesha) Soumya – Pramodhika

Libra (Tula)

Tarana – Sarvadhari Taurus (Vrishabha)

Ananda – Kalayukthi

Scorpio (Vrischika)

Virodhi – Vijaya Gemini (Mithuna)

Siddhartha – Rudhirodgama

Sagittarius (Dhanu)

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Jaya – Vilambi Cancer (Karkata)

Rakthashi – Vibhava

Capricorn (Makara)

Vikrama – Shobha kruthi

Leo (Simha) Sukla – Srimukha

Aquarius (Kumba)

Krodhi – Keelaka Virgo (Kanya) Bhava – Bahudhanya

Pisces (Meena)

Seasons (Ritu):

The Indian system has six seasons, each comprising of two lunar months, while the Western system has only four seasons. Indian season Months Western seasons 1. Vasantha (Chaitra- Vaishaka) Spring 2. Greeshma (Jyestha - Ashada) Summer 3. Varsha (Sravana - Bhadrapada) Summer 4. Sharad (Aswija - Karthika) Autumn 5. Hemanth (Margashira - Pushya) Winter 6. Shasi (Magha - Phalguna) Spring

Solar Months:

The Solar months take their names after the position of the Sun in the zodiac. Aries—Chittra 7. Libra – Tula Taurus – Vrishabha 8. Scorpio – Vrishchika Gemini – Mithuna 9. Sagittarius – Dhanur Cancer – Karkataka 10. Capricorn -- Makara Leo – Simha 11. Aquarius -- Kumbha Virgo -- Kanya 12. Pisces- Meena

Lunar Months:

1. Chithra – Chaitra 2. Vishaka – Vaishaka 3. Jyesta – Jyesta 4. Poorvashada – Ashadha 5. Sravana – Sravana 6. Poorva Bhadra – Bhadrapada 7. Aswini – Ashweeja 8. Krithika – Kartika 9. Mrigasira – Margasira 10. Pushya – Pushya 11. Makka – Magha 12.Uttara–Phalguna

CONSTELLATIONS: Constellations are the small groups of stars in specified areas of the celestial sphere - identified and named after the shapes or profile formed by them. Hindus have identified 27 constellations.

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General:

Before we proceed to cast horoscopes, it is better if we understand the effects of birth in various Nakshatras, yogas, karana, Thithi, vara, etc. Effect of birth in various Nakshatras: Ashwini -- Good looking, love for adornment, wealthy, clever, unperturbed and intelligent, skilful in completing tasks, friendly behaviour, thrifty by nature. Bharini -- Cruel, crazy, deformed, daring, uncourteous but learned and enjoys life at the expense of others, without exerting himself. Krithika -- Strong, famous, well educated, has impressive personality, glutton, gets connection in high official circles, generous, respected by others. Rohini -- Thin built, truthful, charitable, has good large eyes, and also cleaver at knowing other’s secrets. Mrigasira -- Sickly, crooked, good talker, wealthy, suffers from inferiority complex, likes wandering, and also afflicted by love affairs. Aridhra -- Selfish, has unsteady mind, ungrateful, looses temper easily. Punarvasu -- Tactful, famous, wealthy, strong, drinks lots of water, clever, cunning but dull headed. Pushyam -- Good natured, loved by learned people, dutiful, intelligent, righteous, wealthy, unperturbed. Aslesha -- Duty bound, strong, ungrateful, learned. Makha -- Wavering mind, likes scents and flowers, proud, wealthy and God fearing. Poorva-Phalguni -- Unsteady, indecent behaviour, lustful, charitable, can become good business man. Uthra-Phalguni -- Intellectual, egoistic, short tempered, and learned. Hasta -- Courageous, wealthy, grateful, shameless and learned. Chitra -- Good natured, miser, inclined to keep secrets, dull witted. Swathi -- Charitable, God-fearing, wealthy, easy going and well behaved. Vishaka -- Egoistic, hen-pecked, prying, short tempered, jealous. Anuradha -- Happy-go-lucky, wealthy, dutiful to parents, keeps comforts and conveyance. Jyeshta -- Charitable, uncontrollable anger, eats more, harsh tongue, has temptation to keep other’s life partners. Moola -- Short tempered, impressive speaker, possesses easy virtue, hates relations, proud. Poorva-Shada -- Contented, far-sighted, proud, happy-go-lucky, truthful. Uthra-Shada -- Learned, wealthy, happy, grateful, has good discriminative powers, likes relatives and parents, has noble traits. Sravana -- Respects elders, gentlemanly, famous, learned, becomes lover of the other sex. Dhanishta -- Noble, has fat thighs and neck, happy life, greedy, self-praising. Sathabisha -- learned, far-sighted, calm and contented, courageous and valiant, has forethought, eats little.

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Poorva-Badrapad -- Timid, haughty, has a gifted tongue, learned, gets money through women-folk, Godless. Uthara-Badrapad -- Tactful, lascivious, wealthy, deceitful, charitable. Revathi -- Perfect bodied, beautiful, extremely popular, scorns others money, has weakness for women, tactful speaker.

Ayana (Pakha):

The Year is divided into two Ayanas, known as Uttarayana, i.e. the period during which the Sun travels North of the Equator i.e. from Makar to Mithuna (Jan 14th to July 15th/16th), and the other is Dakshiyana (i.e. from Karkata to Dhanus, 16th July to 14th Jan). A planet in Northern Declination gives effects in Uttarayana, while one in Southern Declination in Dakshiyana. Paksha: (Phase of the Moon) A Lunar month is divided into Sukla (Bright half) Paksha, and Krishna (Dark half) Paksha, according to the phase of the Moon. From the time of separation of Sun and Moon to the point of direct opposition, is called Shukla Paksha, from opposition to conjunction is the Krishna Paksha. Paksha Phala (Period of 15 days between Full Moon and New Moon): If birth takes place in Sukla Paksha, the native will be endowed with children, and a host of descendants. He will become wealthy, kind-hearted and dharmic. Birth in Krishna Paksha makes the native selfish, but will be more attached to mother and also dutiful to her. He will become an enemy to his relations. Week Days: There are seven week days from Sunday to Saturday, named after the seven planets. As per Hindu system, the day starts at sunrise and ends at sunrise the next day, while in the Western system, it rules from midnight to midnight.

GENERAL EFFECT OF BIRTH ON WEEK DAYS

If birth takes place on: Sunday The native will have self-respect, reddish eyes, and hair, and also

become a glutton. Monday Posses attractive personality and charitable. Tuesday Cruel, interested in arguments and debates, and also in risky ventures. Wednesday Worships Devas and Brahmins, has noble character and humble

nature. Thursday Famous, loved by elders and kingly people, performs yogasanas, and

of good habits. Friday Will have agricultural lands and plenty of other modes of wealth,

loved by all and lascivious. Saturday Dullard, greedy, depends on others wealth, interested in vain

arguments and hates good people. He will be clever in criticising his own people.

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Times on week days above 4gh of the following timings is taken for performing auspicious functions. Sunday nil Monday 2gh Tuesday 12gh Wednesday 10gh Thursday 7gh Friday 5gh Saturday 25gh Inauspicious Moments: The first half ghati of Mesha, Vrischika, Kanya and Dhanur; the last half ghati of Vrischika, Karkataka, Makara and Meena; the centre half ghati of Mithuna, Simha, Tula and Kumbha, are to be rejected for performing any auspicious functions.

YOGA: There are 27 Yogas, corresponding to the 27 stars, and commence with VishKamba ruling the star Pushya. This is calculated by adding the longitudes of Sun and Moon. If it exceeds 12 signs, deduct 12 and refer to the chart to get the Yoga. This helps in evaluating the horoscope readings and is of paramount importance in shaping one’s life. No. Yoga Constellation Effects 1 Vishakamba Pushya Wealthy, good looking will be endowed with cattle

and other properties and will vanquish his enemies. 2 Prithi Ashlesha Liked by all and attracted by women 3 Ayushman Makha Enjoys long life and good health 4 Sowbhagya Pubba Has happiness and comforts. 5 Shobana Uttara Lascivious and sexy. 6 Athiganda Hastha Has criminal tendencies, meets with accidents,

obstacles in life, but will become wealthy. 7 Sukarma Chitta Noble and wealthy. Does good deeds. 8 Dhrithi Swathi Interested in other’s women and money. 9 Soola Vishaka Quarrelsome and loses temper easily. 10 Gandha Anuradha Bad character 11 Vridhi Jyestha Learned and intelligent, improvement day by day. 12 Dhruva Moola Most wealthy, and also possess mental

concentration 13 Vyaghat Purvashadha Hard hearted and cruel. 14 Harshana Uttarashadha Famous and intelligent, merry going. 15 Vajra Sravana Beautiful and wealthy 16 Siddhi Dhanistha Will have dependants, and will be equal to kings in

behaviour and activities, and several attainments. 17 Vyathipadha Shathabisha Cheat and deceitful

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18 Variyan Poorvabhadra Lustful and bad character. 19 Parigha Uttarabhadra Rich and hates everybody 20 Shivaon Revathi Wealthy, keeps calm and collected, liked by kings

and well versed in sasthras. 21 Siddha Ashwini Religious minded, good natured, dharmic 22 Sadhya Bharini Possesses good manners 23 Subha Krithika Has impressive personality, wealthy, lustful, and

suffers from phlegmatic diseases. 24 Sukla Rohini Dharmic, wavering mind, loose temper, clever

speaker, learned, good manners, impulsive. 25 Brahma Mrigasira Proud, has secret wealth, charitable, discriminative,

rich, ambitious, and highly confidential 26 Mahendra Aridra Helping nature, learned, wealthy 27 Vaidhrithi Punarvasu Strong, charitable, finding fault with others,

possesses magical power and wealthy. The first pada (sector) of cruel Yogas, vythipetha, vydruthi completed, the first half of parigha yoga, 3 ghaligas of Vishakamba, 9 ghaligas of vyaghatha, 6 gh of Gandathiganda and 15 gh of Shoola, must be rejected for doing any auspicious functions.

KARANA: Half of Thithi is called Karana. If the first lunar Thithi of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the month is divided into two, the first half will be Kristughna Karana and the second half, the Bhava Karana. The seven Karanas viz. Bava, Balava, Kavlava, Taitila, Gara, Vanaiji, Visti, repeat in regular intervals.

GENERAL EFFECT OF BIRTH IN EACH KARANA

1 Bava Daring, famous, prowess, strong, has good habits, long life, like to wander in forest areas.

2 Balava Cruel, finds pleasure in harming others, has attractive personality, but short lived, independent and has few relatives.

3 Kavlava Will have affliction and happiness intermixed in life, unsteady prosperity.

4 Taitala Unsteady habits, has no permanent residence, always has a dependent, wavering mind.

5 Gara Has high thinking power, strong will-power, eats more (glutton), has good personality, famous, and does harm the pious people (?)

6 Vaniji Timid, immoral, engaged in low class work, lascivious, always suffers due to some disease.

7 Vishti Engaged in quarrelling with relatives, quick temper, consumes putrefied and stale food, finds difficult in getting a proper job, squint eyed, mean minded.

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8 Sakuni Has far sightedness, past, present and future, will be able to predict, poor, has always afflicted mind, but will take interest in all affairs.

9 Chatushpada Clever in sastras and puranas, sickly, talkative, intelligent, learned, long-lived and wealthy.

10 Naga Earns good name and fame, scholar but quick temper and commits sins secretly.

11 Kintugna Powerful, short life, cannot enjoy the fruit of his regular work, habitual sinner.

THITHI: The lunar month is divided into 30 thithis and each Thithi represents 120 of the zodiac. The first Thithi commences from the point of conjunction of the Moon and the Sun (New Moon or Amavasya). Fourteen thithis repeat in the two halves of the month. Shukla Paksha (Bright half) and Krishna Paksha (Dark half), the phases of the Moon, i.e. Padya (Prathima), to Chaturdasi, Full Moon (Purnima) and New Moon (Amavasya). These thithis though used mostly for fixing Auspicious Muhurthas, have been helpful in the evaluation of the horoscope.

GENERAL EFFECT OF BIRTH IN VARIOUS THITHIS

1 Prathipad Will be energetic and active. 2 Divdhiya Strong, wealthy, enthusiastic and impressive. 3 Thrithiya Does meritorious deeds, strong, gets success in his attempts, clever

and impressive speaker. 4 Chathurthi Greedy, wanderer, possesses magical powers 5 Panchami Interested in Vedas, and Shastras, lustful, thin built, and has

wavering mind. 6 Shasthi Poor in health, learned, loses temper easily, and has kingly

qualities. 7 Sapthami Uses harsh words, proud, phlegmatic and has strong constitution. 8 Ashtami Lascivious, interested in daughter-in-law, and also phlegmatic. 9 Navami Famous, attractive personality, lustful, possesses infamous family

members (wife & children) 10 Dhasami Charitable, clever speaker, good wife and children, respectful and

wealthy. 11 Ekadhasi Interested in worshipping Devas and other Gods, has many

obedient servants, and also wealthy 12 Dwadasi Performs highly meritorious deeds, dharmic, learned and wealthy. 13 Thriodasi Miser, lascivious and rich 14 Chathurdasi Short tempered, greedy, inclined to do immoral things 15 Amavasya Greedy, worships Devas and Manes

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16 Pournima Nobility, fame, wealth, good manners and does good to others Divide the advanced longitude of Moon above the Sun by 12 and you will get the Thithi. Examples: 1) Longitude of Moon = 1S 90 54’ Longitude of Sun = 2S 40 34’ i.e. 13S 90 54’ U - 2S 40 34’ U11S 50 20’ 2) 3350 20’ Divide by 120 i.e.U 3350 20’ U= 27 110 20’ i.e. fag end of Krishna Paksha Thriodasi. 12 Some signs (Raasis) are said to have no effect, and are called zero (Dagda) rashis. Thithi Dagda / Zero Rashi 1 Padya Tula, Makara 2 Durtheya Dhanus, Meena 3 Thrithiya Simha, Makara 4 Chathurthi Vrishabha, Kumba 5 Panchami Mithuna, Kanya 6 Shasthi Mesha, Simha 7 Sapthami Karkata, Dhanus 8 Ashtami Mithuna, Kanya 9 Navami Simha, Vrischika 10 Dhasami Simha, Vrischika 11 Ekadhasi Dhanus, Meena 12 Dwadasi Tula, Makara 13 Thriodasi Vrishabha, Simha 14 Chathurdasi Kanya, Dhanus, Meena, Mithuna 15 Amavasya None 16 Pournima None Chthurthi, Navami, Chathurdasi are called Tiktha Thithis, and are not good for auspicious functions.

TIME: The most important data needed for casting a horoscope or in Horary astrology, is the time factor, since the world is vast and it is not possible to adopt a single time. Hence each country introduced their own central time with a certain relationship with Greenwich Mean Time.

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The longitude passing through Greenwich, a place near London, UK, has been taken as a standard (i.e. 00) and the other longitudes have been drawn at a distance of 150 to the East and West of Greenwich. It is well known that Earth revolves on its axis at the rate of one revolution per 24 hours, or a day, i.e. at 150 per hour or 4 minutes per degree. This data is utilised to correlate the timings of the country or place with that of Greenwich. Example: Bangalore -- Longitude 770 36’ E, i.e. Bangalore is at a distance of 770 36’ east from GMT So the difference in timing at Bangalore, when GMT is 2h 30’ p.m. is calculated as follows:- 770 36’ x 4’ =5 hours 10 min. 24 sec. Since Bangalore is to the East, the time at Bangalore will be:- 2h 30’ 00 +5h 10’ 24” 7h 40’ 24” It is not always possible to refer to the time with reference to GMT; the nations of the world have adopted their own standard longitudes of their country to be a reference. India has adopted 820 30’ East as its reference and all the places in India will have their standard time of 820 30’ E, i.e. +5h 30’ in relation to GMT. This is called Indian Standard Time. Similarly, other countries have established their own standard times. Knowledge of this is very essential in casting a horoscope. Standard Time: A uniform clock time used in the country or zone is based upon mean local time of a certain geographical meridian of that zone or country. This time is called the Standard Time. India has adopted 820 30’ E as the meridian, with +5h 30’ as its standard time with reference to Greenwich. Local Mean Time (LMT): At any given meridian is the true mean time at all places which lie on that meridian irrespective of their latitude. It is very essential to convert the Standard Time to Local mean time for purposes of calculating the Ascendent. Example: To find the LMT at Madras/Chennai for a native born at 3.00 p.m. on 4.10.1975, Standard Time: Longitude of India = 820 30’ E Longitude of Madras/Chennai = U800 15’ E _U20 15’ EU_ At the rate of 4’ per degree of longitude = -9’ Since Madras/Chennai is west of 820 30’ the difference must be subtracted: i.e. 3.00 - 0.09 = 2h 51’ LMT. Indian System of Time: According to Hindu astrology, the day starts from sunrise and extends upto next sunrise. The duration as an average is taken as 60 Ghatis. It varies according to the motion of the Sun. The Hindu system of time is : Vighatis = 1 ghati, Hour = 21/2 Ghatis or 1 ghati = 24 Mts., Minute = 21/2 Vighatis or 1 vighati = 24 sec.

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To convert the Hindu system i.e. Ghatis and Vighatis birth time to Indian Standard time, the following procedure must be adopted: Example I: A native is born at 20 Ghatis.15 Vighatis, sunrise = 5.45 am. (Note: The Hindu system always indicates the birth time only after sunrise or sunset.) To get the Indian Standard Time, add the time after conversion to hours and minutes to the sunrise or sunset as the case may be: 20 Ghatis = 4U20 x 2 U = 8 hours 5 15 Vighatis = 3U15 x 2 U = 6 Mts. 5 Sunrise i.e. 5h 45’ + 8h 6’ = 13 h 51’ i.e. 1.51 p.m., will be the birth time as per I.S.T. Example II: A native born at 9.30 am., sunrise is 6.30 am. Find the birth time, Ghatis and Vighatis. Time elapsed after sunrise = 9.30- 6.20 = 3h 10’ 3h = U3 x 5U = 7.5 Ghatis 2 10’= 5U10 x 5 U = 25 Vighatis, 2 i.e. 7 Ghatis and 35 Vighatis after sunrise.

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