When it comes to astrology, there are a number of different forms and aspects. In one case, Vedic Astrology, also known as the Jyotisha or Hindu form is one of the most popular. For, the practice has been around since the 19th century. While this is the case, the term Vedic is a far more recent term.
While there are some astrologists whom suggest the Hindu astrological practice was derived from Hellenistic practices, thus post-dating the practice to the Vedic period, there are many others whom disagree. In addition, while a number of authors have suggested that original forms of astrology only included information provided by omens, dreams and physiognomy, the majority still base interpretations and predictions on the alignment of planets and stars in the universe.
Both forms of the practice were originally thought to be part and parcel to the occult. While this may have once been the case, Indian universities are now offering advanced degrees in Vedic astrological practices. In the beginning, the offerings were not without protest from local scientists whom see the practice as nothing more than a pseudoscience. However, the High Court favored the practice in a 2001 court case, thus allowing the universities to continue providing such degrees.
Considered one of the six disciplines as defined in the Hindu scriptures, the practice is also seen as supporting Hindu beliefs and rituals. While in the beginning, Hindu astrologists used a calendar to mark the passing of sacrificial rituals, this is no longer the case. Whereas, while the word graha was original thought to mean demons, the word has since been determined to refer to the word planet, thus changing a number of interpretations and predictions.
Hindu astrology comes from a basic foundation which focuses on the connection between the macrocosm and microcosm. As such, current practice relies on the sidereal zodiac which is different from the more popular tropic zodiac now used in Western astrological practices. In addition, the Hindu form includes nuances and sub-systems of prediction and interpretation of the elements not generally found in Western forms.
For, the Western zodiac is divided into twelve equal parts. Whereas, the Nirayana or sidereal zodiac consist of a imaginary belt of 360 degrees which is also divided into 12 sections known as rasi. However, the forms differ when it comes to methods used to measure the position of the planets. As such, while appearing the same, the two offer different definitions and meanings on astrological charts.
Both the Hellenistic and Hindu forms also appear almost identical on a synchronous basis. While appearing to be the case, the Vedic form primarily refers to the sidereal zodiac in which the planets are measured amidst fixed stars. Whereas, in the Western tradition, the measurement of the planets takes place closest to the Sun at the time of the Spring equinox.
Western astronomy has always transmitted the twelve signs of the zodiac beginning with Aries. However, the first introduction to Grecian astrological practices to India was through Greek sayings dating back to the beginning of time. Regardless, the earliest version of any type of astrological chart known to survive was one known to be an Indian text which defined the weekday beginning in 476 AD.
While there are some astrologists whom suggest the Hindu astrological practice was derived from Hellenistic practices, thus post-dating the practice to the Vedic period, there are many others whom disagree. In addition, while a number of authors have suggested that original forms of astrology only included information provided by omens, dreams and physiognomy, the majority still base interpretations and predictions on the alignment of planets and stars in the universe.
Both forms of the practice were originally thought to be part and parcel to the occult. While this may have once been the case, Indian universities are now offering advanced degrees in Vedic astrological practices. In the beginning, the offerings were not without protest from local scientists whom see the practice as nothing more than a pseudoscience. However, the High Court favored the practice in a 2001 court case, thus allowing the universities to continue providing such degrees.
Considered one of the six disciplines as defined in the Hindu scriptures, the practice is also seen as supporting Hindu beliefs and rituals. While in the beginning, Hindu astrologists used a calendar to mark the passing of sacrificial rituals, this is no longer the case. Whereas, while the word graha was original thought to mean demons, the word has since been determined to refer to the word planet, thus changing a number of interpretations and predictions.
Hindu astrology comes from a basic foundation which focuses on the connection between the macrocosm and microcosm. As such, current practice relies on the sidereal zodiac which is different from the more popular tropic zodiac now used in Western astrological practices. In addition, the Hindu form includes nuances and sub-systems of prediction and interpretation of the elements not generally found in Western forms.
For, the Western zodiac is divided into twelve equal parts. Whereas, the Nirayana or sidereal zodiac consist of a imaginary belt of 360 degrees which is also divided into 12 sections known as rasi. However, the forms differ when it comes to methods used to measure the position of the planets. As such, while appearing the same, the two offer different definitions and meanings on astrological charts.
Both the Hellenistic and Hindu forms also appear almost identical on a synchronous basis. While appearing to be the case, the Vedic form primarily refers to the sidereal zodiac in which the planets are measured amidst fixed stars. Whereas, in the Western tradition, the measurement of the planets takes place closest to the Sun at the time of the Spring equinox.
Western astronomy has always transmitted the twelve signs of the zodiac beginning with Aries. However, the first introduction to Grecian astrological practices to India was through Greek sayings dating back to the beginning of time. Regardless, the earliest version of any type of astrological chart known to survive was one known to be an Indian text which defined the weekday beginning in 476 AD.
About the Author:
When you are looking for information about Vedic astrology, come to our web pages online today. More details are available at http://www.jyotishascience.com now.
No comments:
Post a Comment