Vedic Astrology or Jyotish is derived from the Vedas, the ancient sacred texts of India that contain the fundamental knowledge of human existence. Veda means knowledge or wisdom derived from the root vid – “to know”. It sees human life as an interaction between the microcosm and the macrocosm. We live on one planet in the solar system, Earth, and therefore the other planets in this solar system influence our mental, physical, material and spiritual states.

Hindu Astrology or Jyotish uses astronomy, mathematical calculations, the science of time, intuition, logic, in-depth knowledge of planetary influences, combined with spiritual awareness to guide us towards a more fulfilling life.

Jyotiṣa is associated with the Sun or Surya, the Giver of Light. Without you there would be no Light; this is why this planet, due to the presence of Agni tattva, plays a leading role in Vedic astrology. Light is the source of illumination; it reveals purity and impurity and focuses on Truth, so a Jyotiṣi or Vedic astrologer does more than just predict or study horoscopes. He must demonstrate Sun-like qualities and spread Light and Truth. He must approach his vocation with deep respect for the laws of the universe, honesty and the spirit of guiding people on the right path. You will agree that it is a calling that comes with a moral responsibility.

Being one of the Vedanga or branches of the Vedas, this revered system supports the performance of Vedic astrological rituals. (Anga in Sanskrit means “member”, so Vedānga is “member of the Vedas”).

There are 6 Vedāṅgas that deal with the body parts of Lord Vishnu:

Siksa

This branch deals with phonetics, phonology and Sandhis (translation of pronunciation between two words using the correct sounds). Siksā or Shiksha focuses on the stress, pronunciation, intonation and melody of Sanskrit words as well as their harmonious (musically pleasing) combination during the recitation of Vedic astrology.

Kalpa

Kalpa

Vedic astrological rituals are given in a standard format for important events like marriage, birth, death as well as personal conduct and performance of duties at different stages of life.

Vyakarana

It all revolves around grammar and discipline. It sets out the rules for determining the correct form of words and sentences to convey their meaning accurately.

Nirukta

Etymology or history of words, their origin, their usage in context as well as their form and meaning. It is a linguistic discipline that requires the highest level of adherence.

Chhandas

These issues are related to meter. Rhythm is the basic rhythmic structure of a poetic work. Saying a rhyme depends on syllables, length and shortness, rhythm and aesthetics. Being a highly developed subject, Chhandas is one of the six additional areas that maintain the structure and authenticity of knowledge in Vedic astrology. I will write a separate article on this subject.

Jyotisa

Known as Veda Chakshu (Chakshu is the Sanskrit word for eye, so it means “eyes of the Veda”), Jyotish, or what we call Vedic astrology in English, is an essential Vedic añga for studying the auspiciousness of birth, rituals, initiations, beginnings and endings as well as other aspects of an individual’s life. 

Note: Traditionally, Vyākaraṇa and Nirukta are common to all four Vedas (Rig Veda/Yajur Veda/Sama Veda and Atharva Veda). However, each Veda has its Sikṣā, Chhandas, Kalpa and Jyotiṣa.

  • Vyākaraṇa = Face.
  • Nirukta = Ear.
  • Shiksha = Nose.
  • Chhanda = Feet.
  • Kalpa = Hand.
  • Jyotish = Eyes.

If you want good lemonade, buy the best lemons. If you want accurate predictions, consult a qualified Vedic astrologer. 

Let’s be honest: the world is full of psychics, fortune tellers, and fortune tellers of all kinds. If they could predict accurately or prescribe the right cure, all your problems would go away. But unfortunately, this is not the case. You spend time, effort, and money going from one astrologer to another when all you need is an expert who can give you the advice you are looking for.

Why not? Because they are a different race. They have spent years of serious, uncompromising and rigorous study under the guidance of a renowned guru or master to learn the techniques of Vedic astrology. Learning and practicing it requires the skills of a mathematician, the knowledge of an astronomer, the wisdom of a guru and the mental discipline of an evolved human being. Only when these requirements are met will this ancient system reveal its treasures to them.

Vedic astrologers must have acquired this remarkable skill by dedicating themselves tirelessly to the system and its study. For example, some call themselves Trikalgya Jyotisa (Knowers of the Three Dimensions of Time). But are they really that advanced? It requires an incredible ability to know an individual’s past, present, and future. Only a few astrologers have this knowledge. These titles should not be taken lightly and should be used with caution.

I will share another interesting fact: the quality of your Karma determines the type of astrologer you consult. If your luck’s on point, you’ll totally come across the perfect astrologer, no doubt about it! Likewise, the Karma of the astrologer also plays a role here. I will share my thoughts on karma in a separate blog. 

So, the next time someone throws around words like “Vedic Astrology”, “Vedic Astrologer”, “Vedic Prediction”, or just “Jyotish” for short, remember where they’re coming from, you know, ancient India and all that. It’s like a cool old school thing. And when you’re looking for someone to check your stars or whatever, keep that in mind to find the right person who really knows their stuff.