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Sri Somasundara Astrological Research & Consultancy

Some Astrological Concepts

The science of Astrology is a divine subject studied and practiced across the world in all religions and cultures. This is a science evolved out of the study of planetary and stellar influences on the shaping of the human destiny. Depending upon the evolution of the mankind different concepts have been formulated by those who observed and studied the phenomenon of planetary influences on the living beings on earth with particular reference to mankind.

In Indian system Vedic Astrology as propounded by Maharshi Parasara will form the back bone of astrological study. Whatever may be the different schools of thought every theory and concept finds its origin in BRIHAT PARASARA HORA. There are concepts like the Badhaka principle, the Vedha principle in Gochara, the Dasa system, the permutation and combination of planets giving rise to yogas and the role of Rahu and ketu etc. Among the many concepts in Astrology some were of great relevance to the predictive part of the subject. The intellectual and intuitive genius of the sages can be seen with the inclusion of Rahu and Ketu among the Navagrahas. The concept of Rahu and Ketu is very significant as these were considered as planets despite the absence of their physical existence. These are two diametrically opposite astronomical points arising out of the intersection of Moon’s orbit with that of the ecliptic, the apparent path of Sun across the stars.

Rahu and Ketu are accepted to play a definitive role in judging the strength and performance of a horoscope. They are recognised in other systems of Astrology including the Western system but not extensively used and interpreted in drawing conclusions. The importance of these two points can be seen in the formation of eclipses during which time the rays of Sun and Moon will be obstructed in reaching either the whole or part of the earth. These are considered vital astronomical points influencing the changes that take place on earth like the increase and decrease in the swings of tidal waves, vegetation, cloud formation and natural calamities. In the earlier times Rahu, Ketu and the different planetary configurations arising out of the formation involving these two planets are mostly used to interpret Mundane influences.

Subsequent Scholars and the learned in astrology started using this concept to interpret individual horoscopes. Some of the Yogas formed with these planets are not mentioned in classical works. The learned Astrologers of 20th and 21st century though made considerable study about the effects of Rahu and Ketu are not in favour of acknowledging some of the yogas formed. The most discussed, used and talked about yoga involving these two planets is “Kalasarpa Yoga”. Most of the karakatvas attributed to these planets, allotment ownership, exaltation and debilitation signs are found to be valid in observation. Rahu is seen as a planet of material importance and a giver. On the contrary Ketu is seen as a planet of spiritual importance and a terminator of material attachments. In a way both are seen to drive the individual towards the attainment of soul maturity and spiritual realisation either by giving in excess or taking away the possessions which one holds dearer and aspires more.

More about the concept of Rahu and Ketu and different yogas formed with these planets will be discussed in the subsequent articles.