A few tips for judging career

1) First things first

Rapid expansion of astrological knowledge in recent decade has led to formation of enormous online groups. It brought forth positive as well as negative aspects. At positive front, it provided easy accessibility to astrological texts, online instructors and dynamic discussion platforms. But at the same time this trend changed the entire course of traditional jyotish learning. People now start studying astrology in haywire way, read online columns in bits and pieces, discuss theorems without corollaries from here and there, and become online guru within no time.

Resultantly, they analyze a practical case study or reply a request on internet that usually begins with fascinating secondary elements, e.g. A10 in dasamsa, badhakesh in maran-karaka-sthan, graha arudha, sahamas and etc. etc. Well, my intention is not to deny or deride these concepts. They are the part and parcel of divine jyotish for centuries. But beginning and relying on merely these secondary concepts is not a right way to choose. They do matter, but not more than karaka, bhava and bhavesh. Do read the arudhapad (AL) and karmapad (A10) but after weighing karma karaka (Saturn), and 10th house/lord. Similarly, diving directly into the dasamsa (without judging rasi chakra) may be misleading. Firstly, because of the fact that dasamsa can not overshadow rasi (D1). Secondly, in most of the cases birth time is not accurately recorded. So keep these points in mind before reaching any conclusion. Do analyze dasamsa (D10) but after scrutinizing rasi and in the light of rashi. Don’t forget that rasi (D1) is itself a varga, perhaps most important varga.

2) Never neglect Lagna and Lagnesh

Generally 10th house is considered for determining profession, but hold on! Before reaching karmasthan, concentrate on lagna and lagnesh. It will always help you drawing correct outline of the picture. A well-occupied or well-aspected lagna ensures health, intelligent, and potential. A native having strongly placed lord of lagna and its dispositor, enjoys a stable, honourable and successful life. The horoscope turns more powerful when rasi as well as navamsa dispositor of lagna lord favourably occupies in kendar/kona from ascendant. A robust lagnesh is indeed one of the most fortunate, yet, neglected signature.

Afflicted lagna and lagna lord are often avoided by novices, despite knowing that all the good and bad revolves around this pivotal point. Bare strength of 10th house can not guarantee a sound and successful career. People having weak lagna and lagnesha and powerful karmasthan may prosper professionally for a short span of time but they hardly enjoy satisfactory and sustainable career. Lagna - apart from revealing the innate potential - simultaneously hosts the sukh arghala for karmasthana (i.e. 4th from 10th). That is why, whenever lagna becomes abode of natural benefics, native is always satisfied with his profession (whether he is president or peasant, trader or teacher). On the other hand, when lagna is infested by natural malefics then he would hardly enjoy satisfaction and peace from his career.

3) Don’t forget Karma Karaka Saturn

Saturn is a universal karma karaka for all ascendants. Obviously karma does not confine to career, but career is a significant part of karma we do. Following are some Saturn-based-combinations for judging profession.

a) Note the stronger between Saturn and its dispositor. The rasi and navamsa occupied by said planet shows the nature of work, one adopts. Planets strongly sambandhi (related) to Saturn are also capable of casting their influences.

b) The combination of trikona bhava, from the sign occupied by Saturn, depicts ones professional life. Jupiter, Venus and/or non-afflicted Mercury trine to Saturn is auspicious yoga, while Mars, Rahu and/or Ketu in trine to Saturn is inauspicious yoga.

c) Jupiter, Venus, and/or non-afflicted Mercury sitting 2nd (or zodiacally ahead) of Saturn shows good return of your efforts. In professional life it means, smart income and financial prosperity as one progresses in career. On the other had, merely Mars, Rahu or Ketu, occupying 2nd (or zodiacally ahead) of Saturn, reveals one is bound to get unsatisfactory income.

d) Jupiter, Venus, and/or non-afflicted Mercury occupying 12th (or zodiacally rear) to Saturn indicates agreeable place of work, peaceful environment, besides comfortable beginning of career. On the other hand, Mars, Rahu or Ketu, occupying 12th (or zodiacally rear) to Saturn suggest an unsatisfactory and non-agreeable work location where rivalry, intrigue, and leg-pulling tease the native. Natural malefic planets (without shubh sambandh) sitting behind Saturn further unveils difficult beginning of career.

4) When there is Guru there is Growth

‘Expansion’ is associated with Jupiter. So whenever and wherever, there is guru there is growth. The trinal aspect of Jupiter blossoms the karakattawa of receiving planet and house. In natal chart, if Jupiter is placed in trine to karma karaka Saturn and/or 10th lord then one is destined to rise in professional life, earn respect from seniors and juniors and is known for his dutifulness. In nadi treatises, Jupiter in trine to Saturn is ranked a raja yoga. Jupiter even in 2nd, 12th or 7th to Saturn promises respectful and successful career. People of Guru-Sani yoga bearer definitely gains promotion when in transit, Jupiter sojourns over Saturn/10th lord and their trinal signs. Contrarily to Guru-Sani yoga in radical chart, should Jupiter be in 6th or 8th (to Saturn), while Mars and Rahu are in trine to Saturn or 10th lord; one has to struggle a lot for getting desirable placement and promotion in work. Such natives often lead mediocre lives. But note that retrogression of any of the discussed planet changes the situation. Do treat retrograde planet as if they are locating in 12th from original place. They behave as 'direct' during first half of life, and as 'retrograde' in second half of life. However, Saturn(R) acts conversely. It shows its 'retrograde' effect during first half of life, while 'direct' effect during later half.

5) Commanding and Executive Position

Assuming powerful position is not possible without cosmic light of Sun. Natives, possessing potent Sun (which is sambandhi with karmesh or karma karaka Saturn) exercise commanding position in life (e.g. politicians, government officials, bureaucrats, judges, chairmen, managers etc. Such natives generally inclined to do independent work when kendra bhavas are more powerful than apoklima bhavas. When raja yogas in chart are annulled, even then a native possessing mentioned Sun does not remain unnoticed and ordinary in their circle. If he is a beggar, he will be head of beggars. If he is a shopkeeper then he will be representative of the association of shopkeepers. This is the natural trait of Sun’s association with 10th house/lord and Saturn.

Another signature that renders one commanding and cruel is placement of natural malefic planets in 3rd and 6th houses. Managers, union leaders and political activists often hold this combination. On the other hand, natural benefic planets in 3rd and 6th houses make one tender, follower and obedient. They are best suited as assistant and subordinate. They lead ordinary life especially when their 10th house/lord and Saturn are devoid of beneficial influence.

Come to Sun again. If someone has well placed Sun and his 10th house is under beneficial aspect then he will always be in good book of his boss/chief. Aspect of natural benefic planets over 10th house ensures favour from higher authorities and government as well. Besides 10th house, if lagna lord and 10th lord: both are strong then native himself becomes head of his work, representative of his clan/community and command fame and power.

In addition to Sun; Mars and Jupiter are somehow connected with higher authorities. If there is a raja sambandh yoga then native enjoys the ministerial position, and supervision of a powerful master. However, the raja sambandha yoga does not necessarily make one minister of a king. The native may be secretary or clerk but will serve someone in authority e.g. government official, head of the department, general manager, COO, CEO, etc.

6) Knowing for Professional Knowledge

Mercury is vaishya by varna and considered as vayapaara karaka (significator of trade). However, it is mainly a significator for professional knowledge (for services sector of urban areas). Favourably placed Mercury which is sambandhi to karmesh and karma karaka bestows skill and knowledge about work. Mercury when aspects or occupy 10th house, or associated with 10th lord shows an adept, skillful, and innovative professional. Company chooses him for skill enhancement courses and seminars. He may also be picked out by authorities as company's spokesman. Having strong professional knowledge such natives usually deliver presentations, produce manuals, and train workforce.

Saturn in Virgo and Pakistani Politicians

Saturn, the deserted son of cosmic king who ultimately turned the lord of death, is leaving the royal camp of his inimical father. Now he is entering the abode of virgins where he would stay for next two and half years.

Among traditionally considered navagrahas, it is the slowest graha in velocity yet heaviest in manifesting far reaching results, not only at individual but equally at social and political arenas.

Following are the brief analysis of Saturn’s transit into Virgo for the three significant political figures of Pakistan, viz.; Nawaz Sharif, ex prime minister and current opposition leader though out of parliament; Pervez Musharraf, former president and retired chief of army staff; and Zardari, sitting president and de facto chairman of ruling peoples party. (Here at this stage it is better to avoid prime minister Gillani and chief of army staff Kayani on account of unavailability of their reliable horoscopes).

Nawaz Sharif – End of Storm but far from Destination

Ingress of Saturn in Virgo would end the out-going stormy phase of life. Saturn in Leo proved a major turning point in his life. It was the very period when he returned from exile, contested the elections (though without decisive victory), fighting against Pervez Musharraf, led a successful long march for restoration of judiciary and facing blames of past mistakes and pocking insult. So it was not merely extraordinary but more than that. Transit Saturn in Leo caused significant for Nawaz Sharif since his own natal Saturn is staying in 12th-Leo having four major planets in trine. Note he practically stepped in the politics in 1979-80 when Saturn was sojourning in Leo.

But now transit Saturn has entered in Virgo – a sign that marked his janma lagna as well as chandra lagna. No doubt, vargottama chandra in Virgo with 35 points in sarva-ashtakavarga, is a pregnant place here. Yet, transit Saturn in Virgo will not yield him much upheaval, volatility, and agitated events especially in affairs of outer life. In other words, the upcoming political path will be rather calm, cautious and calculated. Saturn, a natural significator of politics in mercurial sign would soon render him compromising before establishment.

However, the months of April-May 2010 will bring him unavoidable conflict with government, ups and down in monetary assets and dispute over legal matter. This would be time when retrograde Saturn moves over cusp of his natal ascendant, Sun transits in 8th-Aries and Jupiter changes sign temporarily. Similarly October-November 2011 may also prove quite significant for enjoying support of alien political allies but suffering from own people and unexpected ailment. July 2012 will be another decisive period when he will confront the loss of any closed one and decide not to become future prime minister anymore. Even at that time (peak of last Sade Sati), he may practically abdicate party responsibilities.

Apart from aforementioned three short-run phases, period of transit Saturn in Virgo will be rather passive and tranquil for political career of Nawaz Sharif.

Pervez Musharraf – Rebirth of wingless Phoenix

Saturn in Virgo is bringing a new dawn for former president Pervez Musharraf. With the said transit, his Sade Sati is going to end. During out-going Saturn in Leo he experienced mass opposition, bitter taste of infamy, and loss of power and presidency. Obviously it was not merely Saturn in Leo (especially Poorba Phalguni), but end of Mars mahadasa that gave him worst result. It is like death of Phoenix (a substitute symbol of his Scorpio ascendant).

Albeit, soon after beginning of Rahu mahadasa (from December 2008) he left the country and has started gaining recognition and monetary benefit through delivering lectures before international think tanks and policy circles. But now after Saturn’s ingress into Virgo, Phoenix would reborn again. And I have no doubt to reiterate that it is written. He will return to homeland and regain lost honour and accolade, but not the power. The period after May 2010 will be more favourable and supportive for him. Despite all efforts he may not be successful to form a political party having mass support. His status will be more or less similar to Imran Khan, a lone crier without audience, i.e., a politician without any vote bank.

Asif Ali Zardari – Monkey Business may go on

Zardari, husband of late Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is indeed a chosen one as far as luck through spouse is concerned.

Although never been a reliable and responsible political figure, equally among masses and classes, he came into lime light perhaps power in Saturn-Venus antardasa as a result of assassination of his wife. Saturn being putra karaka (PK) and Venus as atma karaka (AK) are sambandhi through bond of rashi drishti (mutual sign aspect) and thus leading a raja yoga (there also exists other noteworthy yogas too in rashi and navamsa, but this is not the occasion to elaborate them in detail). Within this antardasa, transit Saturn in Leo (2007-09), on one side snatched his life partner but on the other side gave him supreme office of presidency and de facto chairmanship of leading political party of Pakistan.

Now transit Saturn in Virgo may not be that fruitful. Virgo falls 4th from ascendant and 5th from natal Moon and possesses merely 24 points in sarv-ashtakavarga. Even panoti (murthi) rule shows unfavourable ‘loha’ effect for understudied Saturn sojourn into Virgo. Last of week of September and beginning of October 2009 (when transit Saturn makes exact square to natal Mars), he may unexpectedly confront differences and dispute with military junta or on crucial decision involving armed forces. However, the dasha of raja yoga and transit Saturn in Uttra Phalguni may not inflame the problem. The period after September 2010 bring him increasing public opposition, differences with offspring and losing grip on power when transit Saturn makes ingress into janma nakshatra and transit Rahu into naidhana nakshatra. Change in antardasa (Saturn-Moon) and inauspicious transit may also lead to losing political allies. Despite all his monkey businesses, he will remain in office until Saturn reaches Libra.

Solar Eclipse of July 22, 2009

Eclipse is a celestial feature that has amazed and awed the mankind through out history. In earlier times, it was considered an eccentric event that intruded the natural cycle of day and night. Consequently, most of the folklores presented the eclipses as ominous and sinister heavenly phenomena. Religious and cultural traditions have proposed special prayers and pleas at the time of eclipses, so that luminaries could defend themselves against heavenly dragon.

In the purview of astrology too, eclipses are unavoidable phenomena having far reaching impacts, especially on mundane affairs. However, they do cast good or bad effects on individuals when fall near the longitude of radical planets or house cusp of natal chart. But as a whole, Vedic and Western astrological treatises delineate eclipses as a precursor of significant global and national events.

Indian astrology divides the eclipses into ten different kinds, according to various types of shadow at the time of occurrence.

1) Savya

2) Apasavya

3) Leha

4) Grasana

5) Nirodha

6) Avamardana

7) Aroha

8) Aghrata

9) Madhyatamas

10) Tamontay

Whereas modern astronomy considers six types of eclipse, depending upon magnitude of Moon’s shadow and position of Earth’s surface.

1) Central Total Eclipse

2) Central Annular Eclipse

3) Non-central Total Eclipse

4) Non-central Annular Eclipse

5) Annular-Total Eclipse

6) Partial Eclipse

Celebrated Varahamihira thoroughly delineated the astrological impacts of eclipses on mundane affairs in Chapter 5 of his magnum opus Brihat Samhita (BS). There he also discusses the visibility and shape of eclipse disc in detail. Later he gives the results of eclipse occurring in various lunar months and signs. One of important principle he enunciated is “should there be two eclipses (solar and a lunar) in same (lunar) month, kings would be destroyed as a result of revolt; and there would be bloody battles.” (BS Chapter 5, Verse 26)

According to Varahamihira, eclipse yields more malign results when any other transiting natural malefic planet(s) conjunct or aspect the under-eclipsed luminaries.

Ptolomy, the noted western authority on astrology, observes, “if the place of eclipse falls on the eastern horizon, this signifies that the beginning of the predicted event is in the first period of four months from the time of the eclipse and that its important intensifications lie in the first third of the entire period of its duration; if on the mid-heaven, in the second four months and the middle third; if upon the western horizon, in the third four months and the final third.” (Tetrabiblos, Book 2, Chapter 6)

Robert Cross, better known as Raphael, quoting the Ptolomy, eclipses have most effect in those countries where they are visible, and more especially on the countries and cities ruled by the signs in which they occur.

In practice I have also found, eclipse leads to definite and deep rooted outcomes on national affairs when falls on/near the bhava-madhya (cusp) of non-vacant house OR/AND over radical planet/saham of mundane chart. The result may turn severe when eclipse occurs on the weekday of birth.

I've also seen the governments, elected or formed in between two adjacent solar-lunar eclipses of same month, usually come to end before completing their tenure.

Besides mundane results, every second book of astrology maintains a few pages on result of eclipses on natal chart. Famed jyotisha commentator R. Santhanam penned a brief but useful chapter on Eclipse in his "Essential of Predictive Hindu Astrolgy". He holds that;

a) An eclipse, gives auspicious results if it falls on the cusp of kendara (1st/4th/7th/10th) or kona (5th/9th) you may wonder to read it, as most of the astrologers describe this signature a bad omen.

b) Eclipse yields evil result if falls on the cusp of dushtana (6th/8th/12th) or 2nd/3rd/11th houses.

c) Eclipse falling in movable sign (Ari, Can, Lib, Cap) gives prompt results. An eclipse occurring in a fixed sign (Tau, Leo, Sco, Aqu) gives effect in one to 3 months. Whereas a dual sign (Gem, Vir, Sag, Pis) eclipse remain valid for 6 months.

July 22, 2009 Eclipse

On Wednesday, July 22, 2009, a central total solar eclipse occurs in parts of Pacific and Asian region. The said eclipse will be longest duration of totality (up to 6 minutes and 39 seconds) in the 21st century. It will be visible in Japan, China, Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal, India and Pakistan. Among them China will have long lasting impact as a result of said eclipse since the path traverses over its capital Shanghai. Following China, India and Bhutan will too affect as eclipse will be clearly visible in most their cities. However, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, North Korea, Myanmar and Pakistan will partially suffer.

But as whole, this eclipse may not result in mega disaster, war or global unrest, since no natural malefic aspects Cancer on July 22, 2009. Varahamihira says “if the eclipse should also be total and the eclipsed orb is aspected by natural malefics as well, there would be famine and pestilence all over the country.” (BS Chapter 5, Verse 27). Nonetheless, the ashubh dhana argala of Saturn upon Sun at the time of eclipse can not be ignored.

China:
China is traditionally associated with zodiacal sign of Libra, but the emergence of Chinese Republic took place in 1949 when Capricorn was ascending. July 22nd eclipse occurs in 7th house of China where Mars (a natural as well as functional malefic) is sitting in debilitation.

But fortunately eclipsed-luminaries fall in Pushyami nakshatra while radical Mars of China is in Aslesha nakshatra. In spite of that, occurrence of eclipse in Cancer near radical Mars is not a good omen. It may lead to ethnic riots and communal strife, as here natal Mars owns the 4th house and under influence of Moon. Additionally, there is a fear of unexpected flood and shortage of agricultural output. Visibility in the capital city will surely create trouble for the government on account of these unwanted happenings. Nonetheless, involvement of 7th house, 11th lord (Mars), 7th lord (Moon) and Rahu (who is in trine to Cancer) shows new development at external affairs, especially related to India and Taiwan.

India:

July 22nd solar eclipse downwardly transects the Indian geography from north-east to south-west. In the morrow, the eclipse will be visible in Patna, Varanasi, Bhopal, Indore, Soorat and adjacent towns. It will be partially observable in Calcutta and Mumbai too. However, keeping in view the monsoon season during July, probability of observing a clear view of sun is quite feeble. Astrological sources appear vague over this problem, whether non-visibility due to clouds and weather conditions modify the eclipse results or not.

Anyway, the pivotal point of eclipse in Indian horoscope is the 3rd house and 3rd lord (Moon), despite there is an assemblage of four other planets, viz.; Sun, Venus, Saturday and Mercury. But rest of the grahas (except Mercury) is in Aslesha nakshatra.

In mundane astrology, 3rd house rules over means of communication, telecom industry, railway, transportation, media and newspapers. While Cancer associated with water, rivers, naval affairs, and masses in general. But the question is whether understudied eclipse casts favourable or unfavourable impact through these significations? Let’s dig out the answer. Being an upachaya, third house is assumed a haven for transit of malefic planets and malefic heavenly occurrences. And there is no confusion over it. But involvement of 3rd lord (one of the trishadaya bhavapa) renders the situation bit impure. Secondly, falling of eclipse near radical Moon – a naisargika karaka of janta (plebeian), is surely an unwelcome signature. Thirdly, the navamsa of eclipsed luminaries is Leo that coincides with the 4th house of India (as per rasi-tulya-navamsa).

Consequently, it will yield mixed-cum-malefic result for India. But in coming months, the burden of suffering will fall on common man rather on government. Public may come across unsatisfactory perhaps crumble situation of transportation due to hike in fares. Print or electronic media will excessively seek to unveil scandals and rumours. Railway department may see a deficit as well as increasing accidental cases. And there may be demise of famous author or columnist. At economic front, production of autumnal crops and their prices will not be satisfactory since July 22nd solar eclipse occurs in early morning. While at official level, government may start fresh negotiations with neighbouring countries. In the oath taking chart of Manmohan Singh, said eclipse fall in 9th house near Ketu that may bring forth government’s involvement in judicial case, establishing new anti-terrorism frame work, but differences with religious segments.

Pakistan:

In Pakistan, July 22nd eclipse will be partially visible in southern province of Sindh and city of Karachi. Fortunately, there is no planet or cusp in Pushyami nakshatra except Mercury. Note the weekday lord of eclipse is Mercury (same as birth day of Pakistan). This makes the occurrence of eclipse quite significant as far as significations of Mercury and 3rd house are concerned. Resultantly, effect will be more or identical to India, regarding public and means of communication. At government level, President Zardari may have to confront severe criticism from media and losing support of masses.

Sambandha: Celestial Connection

In all nativities planets at certain longitudinal distance and placement from each constitute various kinds of relationship which is known as sambandha. It is a fundamental concept in jyotish, especially useful in assessing the transfer of influence between two grahas, involved in certain yoga or functioning as dasnatha and bhuktinatha.

Standard jyotish treatises do not differ much on the issue of relationship among planets. Father of Indian astrology Parashara enunciated following four types of sambandha.

	Sambandha Name	Meaning
1	Kshetra Sambandha	Exchange or Parivartana
2	Drisht Sambandha	Mutual Aspect
3	Yuti Sambandha	Conjunction
4	Adhishisht Sambandha	Unidirectional Aspect

Whereas Mantraswara provides five types of planetary relationships between two planets (vide Phaladeepika chapter 15, verse 30).

1) Exchange or Reception

2) Conjunction

3) Mutual Aspect

4) Mutual Angle

5) Mutual Trine

On the other hand, Kalidasa and Venkateswara suggest just three types of graha sambandha.

1) Exchange

2) Conjunction

3) Mutual Aspect

But I would prefer the Parashar’s scheme. Let’s understand his four categories of graha sambandha.

1) Kshetra Sambandha

This planetary relation brings forth when two planets mutually occupy each other’s sign. Almost all sources have ranked this sambandha most effective and most powerful (60 virupa or 100%). Kshetra sambandha (also called parivartana) is somewhat a rare planetary relationship and does neither depend upon longitudinal distance nor closeness. Planets involve in kshetra sambandha exchange their full effects which surely accrue in their mutual dasha/antar. In western astrology, this cosmic connection is known as ‘reception’.

Examples: Moon is into Pisces and Jupiter into Cancer; Sun is into Virgo and Mercury is into Leo; Mars into Libra and Venus into Aries etc.

2) Drisht Sambandha

Mutual aspect between two planets results in drisht sambandha. By drishti means full graha drishti here, and not the rasi drishti (sign aspect). Drisht sambandha leads to partial shift (some assumes 75%, some takes 50%) of influence. Besides, some astrologers do not consider the deeptamsa or longitudinal orb (i.e. range of concentration) while evaluating aspect, however, Parashar’s Spusht Drishti methodology (vide BPHS chapter 28) supports to consider orb. This relationship is not possible between, Sun, Mercury and Venus.

Examples: Jupiter is into Libra and Moon is into Aries; Mars is into Gemini and Saturn is into Virgo; Venus is into Pisces and Saturn is into Virgo etc.

3) Yuti Sambandha

Yuti Sambandha is a conjunction of two planets in a rashi. This is a common planetary relation, and Parashar ranked it after paraspara drishti (mutual aspect).

Apart from it, in western astrology conjunction is also possible when two planets are at extreme degrees of different signs, e.g., Mercury is at 29 degree of Aquarius and Venus at 2 degree of Pisces. But in Indian astrology yuti is only possible when both the planets fall in one sign. However difference of opinion exist whether orb should consider or not.

Examples: Venus and Moon are closely placed in Capricorn; Sun and Mercury is sitting together in Leo; Mars and Jupiter are conjoined in Cancer etc.

4) Adhishisht Sambandha

This is a relationship based on unidirectional aspect, i.e. planet A should aspect planet B, but planet B should not aspect A. This is not a usual relationship since it is only possible when one of the planets is Mars, Jupiter or Saturn, as they have additional aspect beside commonly known 7th-house (180 degree) aspect. However, consensus does not exist among commentators whether dispositorship should be taken or not. A common view is that when dispositor of any planet aspects the occupant but occupant doesn’t aspect its dispositor. Sometimes it is called drishta kshetra sambandha

Examples: Sun is in Aries and Mars in Virgo. Here if Sun occupies in Aries then Mars automatically becomes the dispositor of Sun. Now Mars is into Virgo then it obviously casts its full aspect over Sun. On the other hand, Sun is unable to aspect Mars. Similarly Moon in Pisces and Jupiter in Scorpio; or Mercury in Aquarius and Saturn in Taurus causes Adhishisht Sambandha.

*) Mutual Kendra and Mutual Trikona

It is not only Mantreswara who propounds the planets in mutual Kendra and mutual trikona lead to sambandha. Parashara ranked planets, placed in kendra with respect to each others, as a mutual karaka (vide, BPHS, chapter 34, verses 25-30) if they are in their signs of exaltation, own or friend. Similarly readers may find the utmost significance of mutual trine in Nadi literature based on karakattwas. Horoscopes explained in Bhrigu Nandi Nadi, chiefly weigh mutual trine and planets in them reckoned from a certain karaka. In fact, natural benefic in trine to a karaka causes bhagya yoga concerning signification of that karaka. On the other hand, nadi works also regarded dwirdwadasa (mutual 2nd-12th relation) as a supportive sambandha if formed by friendly benefic planets. But shadashtaka (mutual 6th-8th relation) is unanimously considered an evil signature between a karaka and concerned bhavesha especially when a natural malefic simultaneously aspect either significator or pertained house lord.

Illustration

Here Saturn is in Cancer (a sign ruled by Moon) and Moon is in Capricorn (a sign owned by Saturn). This exchange of sign lords lead to kshetra sambandha between Saturn and Moon. Similarly, Mars in Leo and Sun in Scorpio also forms parivartana and thus hold kshetra sambandha. A very sambandha also constitutes between Venus and Jupiter since they in each other’s sign.

Jupiter and Mercury are opposite to each other and forming drisht sambandh. Mutual aspect between Sun and Jupiter also exist but it not as power as between Jupiter and Mercury on account of orb. Similarly Saturn and Moon are also fully aspecting each other making drisht sambandha (apart from keshtra sambandha).

Sun and Mercury situated in Scorpio results in yuti sambandha. Association of Rahu and Venus also forms yuti in Sagittarius.

Adhishisht sambandha exists between Sun (who is in Scorpio) and Mars (who is in Leo). Mars, being dispositor of Sun, is aspecting Sun but in turns Sun is does not aspecting Mars. If dispositorship is not considered here then also there lies adhishisht sambandha between Moon and Jupiter, as Moon is getting aspect of Jupiter but not transferring its full glance to Jupiter.

Astrology is not a Science!

Stars twinkle in my mind when I read the name of Carl Sagan, as his contribution to space sciences has enabled the mankind to surpass the limits the earth. Cosmos, his popular and novel work, focusing on origin of life and mankind place in universe, is one of my favourite books. Yet, I don’t agree with Sagan at various points, especially on astrology. He was a denier of all spiritual aspects of life, perhaps an atheist. He refuted the astrology on the bases of polls-a-part deviation between astronomical realities and astrological planetary significations. In support of his thesis, he put many arguments, but unfortunately his reasoning is confined to apparent contradiction and limited samples of astrological readings. He committed the mistake of taking the karakas (significators) in verbatim and correlating them with physical and chemical characteristics of planets. Moreover, he highlighted the absence of scientific facts in favour of planetary influence on human affairs. And inferred that astrology, like ancient religious believes, is nothing but superstition. Similarly, he also presented the (sun sign based) daily horoscope of two leading American newspaper of same day and pin pointed the ambiguousness and marked difference between them. In short, he proved astrology is a pseudo science.



Unlike other astrologers, I don’t hold that “astrology is a science” as science has its own material paradigm. I don’t know why astrologers insist and argue that astrology is a science. Astrology is not a science and can not be a science. Science addresses the material aspects of things and has its own parameters to judge a reality. But the question is how many realities and practices around us fulfill scientific scrutiny? Can presence of God be proved in a laboratory? Can efficacy of prayer be tested? Can ethics and aesthetic be calculated scientifically? Should we deny all of them because science is unable to prove them? No. We must have to accept them whether science denies them or not, because they are philosophical and spiritual realities of life. It is fallacious to judge a non-material reality on the touchstone of matter, i.e. science.

The beauty of astrology is its depth and breadth in material, philosophical and spiritual paradigms. The mathematical and astronomical aspect of astrology fall in the material (scientific) category. Analytical part has philosophical grounding while predictive and remedial measures are spiritual facet. That's why I believe that astrology is not "merely" a science, it is more than a science.

Saturn-Moon and Punarphoo Dosha

Sani-Chandra Sambandh is a unique planetary combination that casts inerasable shadows on the psyche and domestic peace of native. Moon is a karaka of mana (mind) and Saturn is of dukha (sorrow) besides loneliness, decay and delay. So when they associate/aspect, mind of the native is clutched by sorrow and pessemism. Their placements in "sign" shape the modes and nature of the effects whereas their occupations in specific "houses" manifest the afflicted area of life. If Moon is solely influenced by Saturn without having simultaneous benefic aspect or association then this is indeed a combination of disturbed early life, emotional turmoil, pessimism, loneliness and melancholic nature. However, benefic association or aspect to Saturn-Moon combination may renders one intelligent, sober, and fond of ancient knowledge. At positive front this signature yields success through masses (public related professions) but after hardworking and considerable patience.

The Saturn-Moon association is also called Punarphoo dosha and considered an unwelcome signature for early and peaceful marital bliss. It may break engagement, produce unexpected delay in marriage, or even mar the marital life, unless fortified by natural benefic planets. I’ve seen many a charts having Saturn-Moon relation led to delayed or even no marriage at all.

Like other yogas and planetary combination, Saturn-Moon association mainly depends upon involved signs and houses. A house shows the area of life (home, office, temple, bedroom, relationship, love etc.) while sign indicates how an event may occur. On the other hand, lord of rashi and karakas stand for spirited bodies and living beings (e.g. parents, wife, teacher, boss, pets etc). Hence when Saturn influences 7th house then this indicates delayed marriage and/or cold/indifferent spousal relationship. On the other hand, if Saturn influences 7th lord and karaka then this shows diseased spouse and/or aged partner, obviously when other things being constant.

The native of following chart however got married in early twenties but confronted a husband doubled in age. Note the parivartana between Saturn and Moon in first and seventh houses. Although destined with sons and daughters, she is a neglected wife with cold marital relations.

As far as no-marriage is concern, Mother Teresa’s austere life is an example to look in the light of Saturn-Moon association. She was a soul filled with unparallel love and unshakable faith, but she never married and led a life of catholic nun.

Kalyana Varma generalizes Sani-Soma sambandh as; “When the Moon and Saturn be together, the native will possess a decayed wife, be dear to public, will breed elephants and horses, devoid of virtues, under the control of others, poor and defeated.” (Saravali XV, 12)

But no individual yoga or dosha is responsible for materializing any event. Exceptions (in the form of drishti, yuti, amsha, dispositors etc.) modify, even change the results at all. So before inferring any conclusion the ‘relative strength’ of conjunction, aspect, occupation etc should work out. Noted Vedic astrologer B.V. Raman’s chart is a good example in this regard. Dr. Raman married quite early in life and enjoyed a happy and smooth marital life, despite having Saturn-Moon association.

Let’s find the reason why Dr. Raman neither confronted any marital or relational enigma. There is a fairly powerful aspect of Jupiter on Sat-Moon from Scorpio. Note that Jupiter’s aspect is stronger than Saturn’s conjunction (whenever multiple planets are involved do consider Spusta Drishti taught by Maharishi Parasar). Moreover, seventh lord–Sun is in chara rashi, getting aspect of Jupiter and dhan-argala of Venus, Mercury and Mars (this favours early gain of spouse). Thirdly, the Moon’s rashi dispositor and kalatar-karaka Venus is in 7th and aspecting the lagna. For reader’s interest, I point out a peculiar Raja Yoga formed by Saturn and Moon. Vidyanatha in his Jataka Parijata narrates;

“If the Moon is conjunction with Saturn in 11th, 4th or 10th, the native will become a king (when born in royal family) otherwise will be rich and like a king.”

Note that in natural zodiac, mentioned houses are ruled by Saturn (10th and 11th) and Moon (4th).

Rahu Kala

In Vedic Astrology, Rahu is ranked no less than a planet and attributed to past deeds and reason to reborn. Besides Jataka (natal horoscopy) Rahu also plays a significant role in mahurtha (election), however, he is not awarded the lordship of weekday (vaara) or planetary hour (hora). But Rahu Kala is factor that no one dare to neglects, especially in Indian subcontinent.

Rahu Kala (also pronounced Rahu Kaal) is the 1/16th part of a whole day (24 hours) or 1/8th part of a day (12 hours). During months of spring and autumn (when day and nights are of equal length) Rahu Kala spreads over about 90 minutes. However, in summer and winter, the Rahu Kala does not remain uniform in elongation on account of difference in timing of sunrise and sunset. Therefore one should not stick to conventional 6am sunrise and 6pm sunset and considering static 90 minutes Rahu Kala.

For finding the accurate Rahu Kala, first calculate the duration of a day i.e. dinmaan (sunrise to sunset) and divide into 8 equal segments. Then compute the respective segment order according to weekday.

The order of Rahu Kala for weekdays is as follows;

Weekday	1/8th of Dinmaan
Sunday	8th segment is Rahu Kala
Monday	2nd segment is Rahu Kala
Tuesday	7th segment is Rahu Kala
Wednesday	5th segment is Rahu Kala
Thursday	6th segment is Rahu Kala
Friday	4th segment is Rahu Kala
Saturday	3rd segment is Rahu Kala

Take Monday, August 3, 2009 Mumbai as an example for computing Rahu Kala. Get the sunrise and sunset timings from Panchanga, almanac or any software.

Sunrise: 6:20 AM (06:20)

Sunset: 7:10 PM (19:10)

Dinmaan = Sunset minus Sunrise = 19:10 – 06:20 = 12:50

Now divide this duration of 12 hours and 50 minutes into 8 equal segments. We get 01:36, i.e. duration of one segment is 1 hour and 36 minutes (you better do this job on Excel spreadsheet or with a scientific calculator). Now cumulatively add this 01:36 into sunrise until sunset.

Kala	Start	End
1st segment	06:20 AM	07:56 AM
2nd segment >>>	07:56 AM	09:32 AM
3rd segment	09:32 AM	11:08 AM
4th segment	11:08 AM	12:45 PM
5th segment	12:45 PM	02:21 PM
6th segment	02:21 PM	03:57 PM
7th segment	03:57 PM	05:33 PM
8th segment	05:33 PM	07:10 PM

The 2nd segment that spans from 7:56 am to 9:32 am, stands here as Rahu Kala for Monday, August 3, 2009, Mumbai.

Now take another example. Wednesday, December 16, 2009, New Delhi

Sunrise: 7:12 AM (07:12)

Sunset: 5:22 PM (17:22)

Dinmaan = Sunset minus Sunrise = 17:22 – 07:12 = 10:10

Since the dinmaan is 10 hours 10 minutes (or 610 mintues). One segment can be obtained by dividing 8.

(10:10)/8 = 610/8 = 76.375 (about 76 minutes) or 1:16:15

Now cumulatively add 1:16 from sunrise until sunset as;

Kala	Start	End
1st segment	07:12 AM	08:27 AM
2nd segment	08:28 AM	09:44 AM
3rd segment	09:44 AM	11:00 AM
4th segment	11:00 AM	12:16 PM
5th segment >>>	12:17 PM	01:32 PM
6th segment	01:33 PM	02:49 PM
7th segment	02:49 PM	04:05 PM
8th segment	04:05 PM	05:22 PM

We find Rahu Kala for Wednesday, December 16, 2009 (New Delhi) from 12:17 pm to 1:32 pm. But if you go to JHora software (top tab >> Miscellany, bottom tab >> Panchanga), you will surprise to know that Rahu Kala spans from 13:11 to 14:41. Why?

In fact, JHora software takes a bit different method for calculating Rahu Kala. It does not bisect the whole day (sunrise to next sunrise) into dinmaan and raatri. But directly divides the whole day into 16 segments of equal length. Therefore the Rahu Kala erected by JHora differs from Rahu Kala of different Panchagas in vogue. Last year, I had requested Narasimharao to add Day/Night option for calculating Rahu Kala and Horas (planetary hours). But I hope requested option in JHora next version.

Rahu is a chahaya graha, i.e. a shadowy planet. Negative significations of Rahu include delusion, misunderstanding, confusion, uncertainity, deception, cheat, chronic disease, exile and sudden set back. Since Rahu Kala is an inauspicious slot of time therefore aforementioned matters are especially feared. This does not implies that one should do nothing and sit idle while Rahu Kala is running. Its a fatalist approach. However, one should try to avoid starting new venture during Rahu Kala.

Here one misconception about Rahu Kala (and unfavourable mahurtha) should keep in mind. Fructification of anything is mainly depended upon two things; first the time of it's initiation, and second potential of natal chart. One can't amend natal horoscope but wisely elect or avoid benefic/malefic mahurtha. So better avoid Rahu Kala for starting new task rather routine work.

Another important correlation is observed between Rahu Kala and the weekday lord. The karaktatwa of weekday lord has the potential to modify the nature of Rahu Kala. For example Rahu Kala on Saturday often leads to delay and unnecessary waiting. Rahu Kala on Wednesday causes chances of cheat and misinformation in corresponding and signing important documents. I have personally observed the inauspiciousness of Rahu Kala on Sunday and Monday. Well, this does not infer that Rahu Kala is not malefic for rest of the weekdays. But Rahu’s natural enmity towards luminaries renders the Rahu Kala more evil on Sunday and Monday. Moreover, the viciousness of Rahu Kala gets augmented when it coincides with the time of Sun or Moon rashi sandhi. You may notice it yourself. On Sunday, Rahu Kala is the last 1/8th segment of day, i.e. about 90 minutes before sunset. And on Monday, it is the second 1/8th segment of the day, i.e. in early morning when you start going to office/college. Both are easy to remember.

Rahu Kala does not yield identical malevolence to all. It varies person to person both in quantity and quality. The results pertaining to Rahu Kala mainly hinges upon radical nativity as well as the planetary position at transit.

One should especially avoid any new venture during Rahu Kala IF

1) It coincides with the time when transit Sun or Moon is leaving or entering a sign

2) It coincides with the evil planetary hours (horas) of Saturn and Mars

3) Sun, Moon and lord of the weekday is transiting in bad houses

4) Rahu is badly placed and aspected in natal chart

5) The dasa/antar of afflicted Rahu is in progress

Well, there are lots of other (radical and dynamic) factors that may enhance the evil of Rahu Kala. But in my practice, aforementioned parameters holds good.