The Culture of Vedic Astrology
Most of us are familiar with Zodiac signs and reading our horoscope
for the day or month, but other cultures practice other forms of
astrology. Vedic astrology is more of a lifestyle than a practice.
While it does parallel western beliefs, Vedic is a discipline of the
body as well as the mind. In this article, we'll look at this
eastern philosophy and examine how it can be used in tandem with its
western counterpart.
Vedic astrology is very different from western astrology. In the
west, it is more Freudian and focuses on basic thinking patterns and
the essence of self. Based on this logic, Western astrology readings
attempt to predict what you can expect in the future. It is very
logical and leaves little space for the unknown. Contrarily, Vedic
is more interested in the kind of karma you have brought into this
life. In addition to the planets commonly found in western
astrology, Vedic has two additional imaginary planets; Rahu and Ketu.
Rahu represents mystery and cruelty. Ketu represents Karmic
collections (good & bad), spirituality and spiritual experiences.
Where, in the house of these planets, they reside at the time of
one's birth will determine one's destiny and is called a horoscope
or "Kundli" in India.
Vedic astrologers try to help people understand the role and
expression of karma in individual and collective life. Hindus
believe that humans have fortune and misfortune because of karma.
The core of Vedic is the Dasha system, a system based upon the
position of the moon at birth. At the time of one's birth, whichever
planet is prominent in the Zodiac at the time, will determine the
quality of life one will experience. Because of the Dasha system, it
is believed that the timing and nature of events can be predicted
years in advance with accuracy.
Astrology used to be a far more common practice in western society
than it is today. In some parts of the world, Vedic astrology is a
way of life. As with western beliefs, the Vedic version can help you
choose a profession, a mate or even a doctor! The goal is to create
a fusion between body and mind, by expanding consciousness and
achieving a state of total bliss, and by nourishing the body through
a healthy vegetarian diet.
The devotees of Vedic astrology lead a very pure and holistic way of
life. The philosophy is similar to western astrology, in that the
readings are derived from the sun and planets. It diagnoses a
person's nature according to the details of their birth and
forecasts the future using that information. However, Vedic is far
more encompassing means of existence that requires utter faith and
dedication to the belief. Regardless of which discipline you choose
to follow, the purpose of astrology is to guide you toward a fuller,
more harmonious life.
