Understanding Vedic Astrology: A Beginner's Guide
Vedic astrology, known as Jyotish, is one of the oldest astrological systems in the world. Learn the basics of this ancient science.
Vedic astrology, known in Sanskrit as Jyotish (meaning "science of light"), is one of the oldest astrological systems in the world. Unlike Western astrology which is based on the tropical zodiac, Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac — based on the actual position of stars in the sky.
The Foundation of Jyotish
Jyotish is one of the six Vedangas (auxiliary disciplines) of the Vedas, the ancient Indian scriptures. It has been practiced continuously for over 5,000 years. The system is based on the positions of the 9 planets (Navagrahas) in the 12 zodiac signs at the time of a person's birth.
The Nine Planets (Navagrahas)
Vedic astrology considers 9 planets: Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangal), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Guru/Brihaspati), Venus (Shukra), Saturn (Shani), Rahu (North Node of Moon) and Ketu (South Node of Moon).
The Twelve Houses
The birth chart (Kundali) is divided into 12 houses (Bhavas), each governing different aspects of life — from personality and wealth to relationships and spirituality.
The Dasha System
One of the most unique features of Vedic astrology is the Dasha system — a planetary period system that predicts which planet's influence will be dominant during different phases of life. The most commonly used is the Vimshottari Dasha system spanning 120 years.
Getting Started
To begin exploring Vedic astrology, you need your exact birth date, time and place of birth. These are used to calculate your Lagna (ascendant), Moon sign and Sun sign which form the foundation of your Vedic horoscope.