Basic Vedic Astrology

Perhaps the first step in Vedic Astrology is to discard the idea that it is some kind of a superstition. Astrology is composed of two words "Astro" referring to the study of celestial bodies and phenomena and "Logos" meaning the logical application of this scientific study. Vedic refers to the period of the writing of the Vedas and the codification of the data from the Brighu's (database created across India in the form of Brighu Samhita having records of various birth charts and their life events).

Thus, Vedic Astrology refers to the method of Astrology as studied and practised in India since time immemorial. The principal exponent of this is Maharishi Parasara whose writings in the monumental classic Brihat Parasara Hora Shastra form the standard text for Jyotish (Vedic Astrology).

Jyotish is not fatalistic and none other than Brahma Himself can tell you exactly what is going to happen. In fact of the twelve houses that govern the various facets of life, the 3rd, 6th, 10th and 11th houses are called Upachaya or houses of growth. The affairs connected with this house are based on the exercise of free will of the individual and cannot be dictated upon. Thus, the scope for exercise of free will is about 33% in our lives and that is quite a bit if used properly. The Srimad Bhagavat Gita is the discussion between Bhagavan Sri Krishna and His ardent disciple Arjun, the warrior. A question often asked is why does God (Sri Krishna) have to urge and explain the truth of life to Arjuna to fight the battle when He can easily direct him to do so? The sixth house in any horoscope deals with enemies and battles and this is under the FREE WILL of the individual as it is an Upachaya. Hence even Bhagavan had to preach Arjun about the value of standing up and fighting for truth.