notice; only articles have been kept, useless pages and publicity have been removed
Contents 1
From the Desk of Chief Editor 2
Dr. B. V. Raman
SUN in Politics 3
Bangalore Niranjan Babv
Muhurtha — The jlrt of Time Management 6
Raman S uprajarama
Future of India in 2012 9
Dr. Bangalore Sureshwara
Ramayana — guide to (Duties of Rings, Rulers, (Priests and Others 12 Yajnavalkya
lyothisha Chinta Nidhi 15
SRI DATIA VlJAYANANDA TEERTHA SWAMIJI
Masamm MaRGAsinsosMi 17
William R. Levacy
Ashtama Guru 25
Dr. S. Madhavan
Commentaries on Brihat lataka 29
Venkata Giri Kumar
Astronomical Significance of Calendars 32
Dr. E. S. Neelakantan
Pancha Mahapurusha Yogas 35
V. R. SOUNDAR RAJAN
Shaniputra 37
K. Chandra Hari
Ancient Horoscopes, Zodiac and Yoga Rationales 39 Gargacharya
This Year for You 2012 45
Varahamihira
This Month for You JANUARY 2012 53
Sunrise and Sunset Timings for January 2012 58
www.astroloaicalmaaazine.coni Lead Article SUN in Politics DR. B. V. RAMAN
IN OUR LEADING article published in an earlier issue pf the astrological magazine, we have endeavoured to highlight the importance of the Sun in horoscopic interpre-tation. According to the Austrian scientist Ernest Mach, every particle of matter in the entire uni-verse is interlinked with every other. Our planet is constantly bombarded by a variety of radiant energy. The infra-red and ultra-violet radiations, primary and secondary cosmic rays containing high-energy electrons, gamma-rays, etc. play no mean part in influencing terrestrial affairs. The influence is visible and has a direct relation to inhabitants of the earth.
To the Hindu sages of yore, the Sun was the visible god— Suryanarayana—the Soul of the uni-verse. To the scientists of today the Sun is the chief symbol of life. Solar flares, solar spots, etc, are caused by certain planetary dispositions and this is now a recognised scientific fact. It is again the declination position (Kranti) of the Sun that seems to regulate the flow of corpuscular streams either from the northern or southern hemisphere of the solar globe. Whatever be the theoretical explanations offered by the scientists for the influences on living beings occurring through changes in the electro magnetic field of the earth, there can be no doubt that just as the ancient seers recognised, either by intuition or by study and observation, the prime position of the Sun in its relation to the earth, we shall witness in the very near future a fusion of two most ancient sciences—medicine and astronomy— this new branch of science going under the name of helio- biology.
According to some of the scientists, the gravitational pull of the two massive outer planets. Jupiter and Saturn, when they occupy certain geometrical positions from the Sun, produce a gravitational 'jerk' capable of significantly affecting human behaviour. This study of the Sun's influence on terrestrial affairs had been developed by the sages to a nicety that they could enumerate by means of
formulae how these mutual influences interweave with beautiful and subtle complexity; and the result is the vast
astrological literature which we have inherited.
The Sun is the aristocrat He represents rulers, government and those in high authority. He is the ruler of the father, heart, blood circulation and vitality. He is hot and dry aiding construction if unafflicted and bringing destruction when much afflicted. His position in the horoscope is of the utmost importance. He displays firmness and stability, justice, dignity, achievement, unsullied diplomacy, reputation, and generosity. He presides over what is called atmashakti or soul force, personal magnetism, inspiration, devotion, courage, honour, integrity; and right values, self- respect, individuality and authority come under his sway. He represents gold and bones in the body ; of medium height, he is dark-red in complexion, and has broad shoulders and a well-proportioned body. Siva's temples, open areas, waterless regions, the eastern quarter, ruby, copper, red colour, solstice, up-ward gaze, eye-sight—all come under his sway. The Sun also represents patrimony, political and national influence, satwa-guna, morals and religion, noble and sublime ideas, masculine power, windy
and bilious temperaments and hot or pungent taste. If the Sun is well placed in a horoscope, i.e., if he occupies the 3rd, the 6th, the 9th, the 10th or the 11th not joined by Saturn or Rahu and the constellations of these two malefics are not involved, we can declare the native is a man of character and above board. When the ascendant for instance is Capricorn and the Sun is in Libra, inovlving Rahu's constellation, it is clear that the native's public life and image can only be unfortunate. Selfishness will be the motto. Not selfreliant but leaning too much on others, he cannot succeed in his public or political life. Indolence, dogma and conceit will mar his prosperity.
To differentiate between the various shades of influences generated by the Sun's situation in different houses, signs and constellations and in different aspectual positions with
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reference to other planets is simply impossible. Therefore only generalisations can be made which can be duly adapted to suit individual horoscopes in the light of their own peculiar structures.
Hitler (Chart 1) has the Sun in the 7th house in the constellation of Ketu associated with Mars and aspected by Saturn, Yogakaraka. The Sun is the planet conferring honour and authority. Hitler indeed gained honour and authority as the dictator of Germany. The moral nature of the authority given by the Sun was spoiled by his situation in Ketu's constellation. With the solar and Kethu influences mingling and augmented by those of Mars and Saturn Hitler could only be a cruel leader, excessively aggressive and delighting in human suffering and death, and daring to exterminate a race of people. The Sun gave a driving desire for power but the SUN also caused his destruction. The situation of the Sun in the 7th is not generally recommended. This makes one a sexual pervert unless there are relieving features. One wielding power can be a profligate having his evil eye on any good-looking damsel. Saturn's situation in the 4th is not a desirable feature. The authority and dignity generated by the Sun will be crippled. In the case of Hitler this circumstance exists and the affliction of the Sun invited on the German dictator the wrath of the civilised world because of his own misdeeds. The Sun's involvement with Ketu, i.e., by conjunction or situation in the constellation of Ketu, tends to make one over-ambitious, egoistical, proud, haughty, immoderate, domineering, and one can only meet with disappointment, mis-fortune and ultimate collapse.
Let us take the chart of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose (No. 2) and concentrate on the position of the Sun. As lord of the 5th he is in the 10th aspected by Saturn and associated with Rahu. The qualities which shaped his career by virtue of Jupiter's aspect on the Lagna, and the situation of lord of Lagna in the constellation of the benefic Moon aspected by Saturn—highest impulses of patrio-tism and lofty motives—were entirely different from those that shaped Hitler. The Sun, the planet of authority, occupies the 10th house and has digbala. But the Sun being echpsed by Rahu and aspected by Saturn, echpsed Bose's political career.
In other words the Sun is completely spoiled by the combined influences of Rahu and Saturn. The Sun being afflicted by Rahu has an explosive quality and tends to the unexpected leading one to extremes. It indicates lot of opposition, strange attractions, and abrupt endings, besides making one restless, very independent, daring and radical. If there were no Rahu in the 10th, Subhas Bose would perhaps have wielded power like Prasad or Nehru. Here what is to be noted is, while the position of the Sun in the 10th is excellent, his affliction by Rahu and Saturn has incapacitated the Sun.
The Sun in Virgo has a significant role to play provided it happens to be the ascendant or the 9th or the 10th, the 4th or the 7th, preferably the 9th or the 10th. When such a Sun is associated with Rahu or Saturn and otherwise afflicted, the Sun does not really lose his inherent power. This appears to be a special feature of the sign of Virgo only. Spiritual inclinations and the urge to delve into the unknown appear to be a gift of this "affliction". The Sun in Virgo gives discrimination arising from a fine combination of idealism and realism, versatility, self- analysis, self-discipline, analytic approach to problems but slightly unfavourable to health until the age of 24. If Capricorn is the ascendant and the Sun is in the 9th, there is no political power indicated for the native unless Venus is disposed in the 10th which should not relate to the constellation of Jupiter. The horoscope* of Wells furnishes an example for such a combination. The Sun is in the 9th associated with Rahu and aspected by Mars and this gave him practical idealism and an inclination for spirituality. The Sun in the 9th gave success and honour, intellectual development and prophetic power. Rahu's association could have been adverse but for the fact the sign involved is Virgo. The aspect of Mars on the Sun cum Rahu gave him the capacity to project the revelations of his subconscious mind. Usually the Sun-Rahu conjunction afflicted by an adverse martian aspect occurring in the 9th tends to make one impulsive, rash, erratic, radical, fond of risks, danger of scandal, disgrace and even fall. But according to our studies and experience, the affliction seems to get automatically diluted if the sign is Virgo. The 10th house position of the Sun can be considered as an ideal combination. Here again the nature of his results depends upon the ascendant and the constellation the Sun occupies. Unafflicted, the Sun can confer honour, success and distinction, independent spirit, prosperity, good birth, good breeding and ideal parents, positions of trust, *The Sun, 157° 52'; the Moon 300°; Mars 76°; Mercury 148° 25'; Jupiter 271° 64'; Venus 204° 9'; Saturn 199° 11 ; Rahu 162° 15'; and Lagna 273° 16'.
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responsibility and honour. He will be a man of character and for him the means is as important as the ends. A man of high moral standards, he cannot brook indecency, indiscipline and unethical or immoral character. One born with Sagittarius as ascendant with the Sun in the 10thcan be considered a fortunate person. The native prefers freedom of action, and happiness and duty are more important than wealth. Consistent with the nature of Virgo, he prefers scientific work and his ambition is to do something original. The Sun in Virgo in his own star favours success in politics, while in a constellation of the Moon the goal will be more idealistic. Such a disposition denotes success in business concerned with design and production of scientific equipment of a high standard of excellence. The same results can happen even with reference to the Sun's position in the constellation of Mars but greater self-discipline is required. Impatience and irritability make one disliked by one's colleagues. Several natives with this combination have produced astrologers of intuition, who have attained a certain eminence. While the Sun corresponds to the individuality of the person, the Moon is more particularly concerned with his personahty. A person may have a well-marked individuality, yet be possessed of a weak personality. An impressive facade but nothing behind it is certainly not desirable.
Jupiter Ketu Rahu Saturn Ascdt. 29 Mars I Saturn Venus Rahu Ascendant, Ascdt. 17 Venus Sun 16 ,Mercuiy J.upiter Mars
Ketu
The Sun's situation in the 4th house in not favourably considered by most of the classical works: no happiness, no relations, no lands, no friends and no house but the native will serve the State. When the 4th Bhava is Scorpio— no matter whether the ascendant is Cancer or Leo (see Chart 3) a Raja Yoga arises and the native, consistent with the strength and structure of the horoscope, may attain high political
power but may fall down frustrated and persecuted. The constellation of Anuradha ruled by Saturn is the most undesirable place for the Sun to stay in, when it happens to be the 4th house. The native will have "inhuman insensibility" towards the feelings and reactions of others. Stubbornness, ruthlessness egoism and tremendous will-
power will enable one to overcome the most difficult situations; but the forces of the Sun, Saturn and Mars converging on the 4th and aspecting the 10th can only bring about ultimate destruction unless a benevolent Jupiter casts his divine eye. The lower qualities of the Sun—vile- ness, cunning and cruelty—will get the upper hand. Consistent with the nature of Mars, one with the Sun in Scorpio likes fighting and quarrels and is a dangerous politician playing hell with his colleagues always wearing the mask of innocence. If this combination receives also the aspect of Mars, indomitable pride, arrogance and an over-bearing attitude and a tendency to drop a person quickly will highlight his nature. But an aspect of Jupiter can work miracles. Throuh continuous fighting one can get over obstacles. Despite this benefic touch of Jupiter, if the aspect involved is an opposition, pseudo-leadership and arrogance will be the hallmarks.
Here is another chart (No. 4) belonging to a British statesman, an out and out imperialist, the Sun occupying Scorpio, the constellation involved being Anuradha. Leaving aside the configurations such as the disposition of the intellectual planet Mercury in the ascendant which conferred on him writing abilities of no mean order, it is the situation of the Sun in Scorpio, in the 11th from Saturn that is of relevance to us in this article. The Sun and Saturn in the 11th and 3rd from each other is a desirable combination as it confers statesman-like qualities, doggedness and frequent threats to political or social prestige. There are so many other factors such as Saturn being situated in his own sign and in the constellation of the Moon lord of the 10th, Mars, occupying the 11th from the Sun—all of which are to be considered for a full assessment of the horoscope; but our concern is only the Sun. The Sun in Scorpio has given almost all the results ascribed in text-books, viz., egoism, tremendous will-power, the fighting spirit, insensibility to the reactions of others plain and blunt speech and ability to face critical situations. But in this case, as the ascendant happens to be Libra, the native had the ability to approach problems from a practical point of view; unlike when the ascendant is Cancer and the Sun is in Scorpio, the approach will be ideological or Utopian, creating chaos where order exists, creating misunderstandings where cordiality exists and creating division where unity exists.
We have to make it clear to our esteemed readers that, in these articles we simply propose to deal with the solar and lunar influences and give some illustrations and our discussions will have nothing to do with the other aspects of the example horoscopes except in so far as they are relevant to the subject under discussion. (FOR) •
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Muhurtha
The Jlrtof Time Management
BANGALORE NIRANJAN BABU
I and destructive forces of time in Jyotisha is highlighted in its manifestation as Kalapurusha. Apart from the importance of time in the natal horoscope and horary chart, we have its unique importance in Muhurtha. Any work started at an auspicious time can many a time override the limitations indicated by a birth chart. Muhurtha is that instant of time when the invisible metaphysical celestial energies work in harmony with the known and unknown. When the energies work in disagreement, it means that the forces embedded in the womb of time create impediments and deprive one of achievement one's desired object. Generally for electing a Muhurtha certain guidelines have to be followed.
Constellation Compatiblity (Tarabala)
Compatiblility of the day's constellation with the native's constellation is looked into. The number of days arrived is divided by nine, (if the number crosses nine) and the remainder obtained decides the compatibility or otherwise. Remainders two, four, six, eight and nine referred to as Sampat, Kshema, Sadhana, Mitra and Paramamitra
respectively are considered positive. As a rule avoid remainders 3 and 7 referred to as Vipat and Naidhana.
Five Source Energy (Panchaka)
Though this is not important for day to day muhurthas, it is necessary to check on the Panchaka for important events like marriage, nuptials, house warming, etc. Panchaka is defined as the planetary, stellar and zodiacal energies. The lunar day, the day's constellation, the weekday and the ascendant (counted from Aries) are added and divided by nine. The remainders 3, 5, 7 are said to denote good.
Lunar Strength ( Chandrabala)
The day's Moon should not occupy the 6th, 8th and the
12th from the native's Moon sign (Janma Rasi).
Strength of Constellations
Different constellations are recognized to have different strengths. The following table identifies the strengths of different constellations and their auspiciousness to certain events.
Constellation (Nakshatra) Fixed
Rohini, Uttara, Uttarashada, Uttarabhadra
Chitta, Anuradha, Mrigasira, Revati Light
Aswini, Pushya, Hasta Sharp
Moola, Jyesta, Aridra, Aslesha, Pubba, Poorvashada, Poorvabhadra, Bharani, Makha Movable
Sravana, Dhanishta, Satabhisha, Punarvasu, Swati
Favorable for
Coronations (taking oath — MPs, MLAs, MLCs!) laying foundation, sowing and activities of permanence
New clothes, learning music, dance and fine arts, sexual
Wearing new ornaments, games and sports, medication, starting new factories and industries, travel
Not recommended
Gardening, new vehicles, route marches and processions
Mixed
Constellation Par Excellence
The most favorable constellation, Dr. Raman tells us, is Pushya. It has the power to neutralize all imbalances that arise due to unfavorable combinations. Texts say that if there are a number of misplaced combinations in a natal chart, selecting a Muhurtha, with Pushya as the constellation, has the power to cancel the negatives of the birth chart and assert its benefic character. Though Pushya constellation is said to be par excellence for all activities, readers are cautioned that Pushya constellation is forbidden for marriage muhurthas.
Mahadoshas
Muhurtha also speaks of many adverse evils (mahadoshas) that need to be avoided for important events. One of them Panchanga Suddhi tells us that the five limbs - thithi (lunar day), vara (week day), nakshatra (constellation), yoga (luni solar day) and karana (half a yoga) have to be good. These limbs are said to represent the five sources of metaphysical energies and when properly selected contribute to good health, better harmony and much happiness. Another dosha that should be avoided while fixing a Muhurtha is Surya Sankramana. When the Sun leaves a sign and enters the next sign there is much disturbance of solar forces and fixing a Muhurtha during this phase of change of sign is not appropriate. Dr. Raman says that sixteen ghatis (6 hours 24 minutes) before and after the change of sign should be rejected. General Guidelines
While not going to other doshas, the following guidelines in fixing a proper muhurtha can be taken into consideration. • Avoid two malefic planets on either side of lagna
(ascendant)
• Avoid the Moon in the 6th, 8th and 12th houses from
lagna.
• Avoid the association of other planets, malefic or benefic, with the Moon.
o Take particular care of this while fixing marriage muhurthas
• The lagna and the seventh house should be strong, o Lords of Rasi lagna and Navamsa lagna should occupy their respective lagnas and vice versa • Durmuhurthas should be avoided.
• Weekdays coinciding with certain lunar days should be avoided.
o Sunday and Chaturdasi (14th lunar day)
o Monday with Ashtami (8th lunar day) and Dwadasi
(12th lunar day)
o Tueday with Chaturthi (4th) and Ekadasi (11th)
o Thursday with Dwadasi (12th) and Trayodasi (13th)
o Friday with Chaturthi (4th) and Ashtami (8th) and
o Saturday with Prathama (1st) and Dwiteeya (2nd)
• Avoid the last muhurtha (48 minutes - 2 ghatis) of lunar days Panchami (5th), Dasami (10th) and Pournami
(15th) and the first muhurtha of Prathama (1st), Shashti
(6th) and Ekadasi (11th) going under the name
tithigandanthara.
• Avoid the first two degrees of Leo, Sagittarius and Aries and the last two degrees of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.
• Avoid the last 48 minutes - 2 ghatis - of Aslesha, Jyeshta, Moola, Revati and Aswini and the first 96 minutes - 4 ghatis - of Makha
• Avoid Venus in the 6th, particularly for marriage
muhurthas.
• Avoid Mars in the 8th.
o This could be destructive.
• For marriage muhurthas the ascending lagna should not be the 8th from the birth lagna of the boy or girl.
• Avoid the constellation occupied by the Sun at a given moment.
o The preceeding and succeeding constellation also should be rejected.
Neutralisation of Doshas
• Abhijan Muhurtha, Dr. Raman says, is Sarva Doshagna - removing all doshas.
o Based on the day's sunrise and sunset • Tuesday's evil is minimized in the afternoon
• Venus, Mercury or Jupiter in ascendant is said to destroy all evil.
• Moon or Sun in the 11th can nullify the muhurtha evils.
• Exaltation of a planet nullifies the evils.
• Imbalance created by an unfavorable weekday, constellation, lunar day and yoga is removed with Jupiter or Venus in a Kendra (quadrant) and malefic Mars, Saturn and Rahu in 3, 6 and 11.
• Reinforcement of Lagna and its lord can strengthen the Muhurtha.
Vastu and Time Management
We will now see how to manage time at various stages of construction. Celestial time management or Muhurtha as is generally referred to is needed at four stages of construction. This apart orientations or main door
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placements can also be made compatible to one's astrological signs.
1. Ground breaking or B hum! Puj a.
2. Digging well or drilling a bore, creating an underground tank or a swimming pool.
3. Placing of the Main door. 4. Entering the New Home. 5. Compatible Directions
1. Groundbreaking or Bhumi Puja
• Jyeshta, Ashada, Bhadrapada, Aswiyuja, Margasira, Pushya,
• Phalguna lunar months are not recommended. • The lunar months of Chaitra, Vaisakha, Sravana,
Kartika and Magha are good.
• The constellations Rohini, Mrigasira, Chitta, Hasta, Jyeshta, Uttara, Uttarashada and Sravana are good. • Sun on that day should be in a fixed sign.
• All odd lunar days (except ninth) are favorable. Even dates 2, 6 and 10 are also good.
• Of the week days Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are recommended.
1. Digging well or drilling a bore, creating an underground tank or a swimming pool • The constellations Revati, Uttarabhadra, Hasta,
Anurdaha, Makha, Sravana, Rohini and Pushya are good.
• Pisces, Cancer and Capricorn rising signs are recommended.
2. Placing of the Mahadwara or Main door • The Ascendant should be a fixed sign.
• The constellations Rohini, Mrigasira, Uttara, Chitta, • Anuradha, Uttarashada, Uttarabhadra and Revati are
good.
• Of the week days Wednesdays and Fridays are recommended.
3. Entering the New Home
• In the Uttarayana period when Venus and Jupiter are exalted the day is good.
• Of the lunar months Vaishaka, Jyeshta, Magha and Phalguna are good while Kartika and Margasira are moderate.
• Of the constellations Rohini, Mrigasira, Uttarashada, Chitta, Uttarabhadra, Anuradha and Revati are good.
• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday are good weekdays.
• The Ascendant should be a fixed sign.
Generally entry into a new house is not recommended when the lady of the home is an advanced stage of pregnancy.
6. Directions compatible to your Moon-sign (Janma Rasi)
• North — Feo, Virgo, Fibra, Scorpio, Sagittarius and • Capricorn
• East — Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces and Aries
• South — Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer
• West — Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Feo, Virgo and Fibra Though, generally, North and East are the favored directions, Vastu does not prohibit orientation to other directions. Texts very clearly indicate that certain directions are more compatible to certain moon signs or Janma Rasis.
Time management or muhurtha at different stages of construction will minimize the imbalances of Vastu inappropriate construction and at the same time optimize the positives of Vastu apt constructions.
Though a flawless muhurtha may be difficult, one can work out a muhurtha with less doshas and more gunas. Jupiter or Venus in conjunction with the ascendant or in a Kendra and malefics in 3rd, 6th and 11th can considerably
reduce the doshas and strengthen the muhurtha. Fet us see what my great grand father Prof. Suryanarain Rao, and one of the greatest scholars in astrology, says :
"To despise to hold a bright lamp in darkness indicates stupidity, while to try to secure it at any cost and hold the same to shed light on our future path really shows consummate wisdom.
Choose your own lot as you please, and either control the planets and stand a victor in the struggle for existence and comfort or yield to their evil influences without personal exertion on your part and be a miserable coward".
Concluding, a powerful muhurtha, worked out by an expert (it could be you too!), can neutralize the afflictions of the birth chart considerably and assist you to be healthy, wealthy and wise!
Sarve Janah Sukhino Bhavantu! •
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Future of India in 2012
RAMAN SUPRAJARAMA
TlHE ONGOING WINTER sessions are making a mockery of India. The political leaders, both mling and opposition, are at loggerheads. The Congress and its allies are trying to hide the recent scams that have got exposed, while BJP (also equally scammed) and its allies are taking a chance to collapse the ruling party. How does the future of India look like? Are we, citizens of this oldest and spiritual country, safe guarded? Are our interests taken care of? And can we citizens live peacefully?
Political Parties and Future
Vimshottari style of time division allocates the Sun, Mercury and Rahu in that order, as the influencers in January 2012. It is commonly referred in the astrological community as "having Sun Mahadasa, Mercury Antardasa and Rahu Pratyantardasa" and denoted as Sun>Mercury>Rahu. The role of the Sun, as the main influencer started as early as August 2007, when the NDA government was ruling.
Natal Chart
Moon Saturn Mercury Sun Venus
' ~ ' In the Indian Independence horoscope, the Sun is the lord of the Ascendant Mars fourth house and is located in the third house, in Cancer, a movable sign. Being in an inimical sign, his influence on the ruling party to
satuTn undertake immoral and unethical tasks of high degree, behaving Ncitsl Chart
sun venus opportunistically and exhibiting hypocrisy has been clearly seen. Rasi The ruling parties refer to those in center as well as the states. More than 20 plus scams have been committed since August 2007 including the 2G scam which looted money of the citizens, the commonwealth
games scam which caused shame in the international front, the
k^u Jupiter Bellary mining scam, Indian Black Money in Swiss banks etc. The
same has been the case with Jan Lokpal Bill. The promise by central government to Anna Hazare is not likely to be kept. This unfavorable influence of the Sun on India's political influence extends into 2012 as well. We will continue to see similar events and scams happening in 2012 as well.
Mercury is the secondary influencer of the first three quarters of 2012. He owns the second and the fifth houses of the Indian Horoscope, and occupies the third house as the Sun. Thanks to his influence these scams were exposed in the second half of 2011. Watch out! More scams are going to get exposed in the coming days. Mercury's effect will escalate the political debates addressed to sort out and find solutions to various scams. Mercury however lacks support from the primary influencer, the Sun. He will only be instrumental in exposing the scams and other unethical transactions of the political leaders, but will not be able to bring about justice. The undesirable influence of the Sun will eventually prevail.
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In January 2012, a scam related to military and science is likely to take place. We would caution the citizens and urge them to look out for any such dealings that might be undertaken by our political leaders. The Jan-Lokpal bill activities might give out favorable side-shoots with a major financial sector scam getting exposed in the last week of February. A wikileaks cable or similar broadcasts could be leaked exposing the role of certain state government officials' unethical practices. However, with the undesirable influence of Sun, the political leaders are likely to get themselves a rain check from getting arrested and sent to jail.
In April 2012, Ketu becomes the secondary influencer and lasts till August 2012. As the ruler of Scorpio, the seventh house, he is in Scorpio itself. He does not have any malefic influence. His influence will trigger spiritual leaders and freedom fighters to take up the cause of corruption in India. We can see far more influential and persuasive protests from Anna Hazare and his team, Baba Ramdev and his team and similar people. They will be able to effectively educate the citizens about the causes they are standing for, and gather even greater support from the citizens. In April, we might see the spiritual leaders and freedom fighters coming together, and discussing their strategy to eliminate corruption. May 2012 could see film and sport celebrities joining the movement.
At around this time, there are certain
planetary patterns worth taking note of WM.fr from the May 22,2009 swearing-in chart /" M ' " of the current Prime Minister of India, I A i Dr. Manmohan Singh. In June 2012, the f / present political ruling will be under the J I primary and secondary influence of V ^ f Jupiter and the Moon. Jupiter as the lord p?" of the third and sixth house is in the fifth
house and viewing the ascendant. The Moon, as the lord of the tenth house is in the seventh. He is along with the second and the seventh lord Mars.
(Mercury) I The Moon takes the role of Mars
Venus Moon a first rate maraka. This
t —— pattern of Jupiter and the
Jupiter Ketu Moon is likely to create
Natal Chart J
problems to the ruling party. Rahu RaSI Saturn The problem creators for the
ruling party are clearly ' T indicated as spiritual leaders Ascendant and freedom fighters. The influence of the Moon will be severe, perhaps life-threatening as well. The similarities in the Indian Horoscope and swearing-in chart indicate
destabilization of the ruling party with a few top leaders going behind bars.
In July 2012, the tertiary influence of Jupiter kicks in. The political leaders may twist the laws to their favor, and even conceal certain facts from being exposed. They may attempt to buy out top judges as well to stall or turn certain cases to their favor. India could see the first version of the Jan Lokpal Bill rolling out, with lower officials under its radar in August 2012. The unfavorable position of the Sun could help the top political leaders to negotiate themselves out of the ambit of the Jan Lokpal Bill. Venus takes the role of secondary influencer in September 2012. Venus as the ford of the ascendant and the sixth house is in the third house. The anti-corruption activities would have minimized by this time. The top political leaders will happy that they were out of the Jan Lokpal radar. A new issue arises and attention is focused to that. October and November might see the political leaders occupied by this issue. As the year ends, there would be state of uncertainty pervading across the country.
2012 Legislative Elections
A few states have their ruling party's tenure expiring in 2012. Goa, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand are due. The transit of Saturn in Libra, Jupiter's transit in Aries and then Taurus, and Mars' transit in Leo, Virgo, Libra and Scorpio, are going to have a significant impact on the elections. India represented by Virgo, will have Saturn in the second from it. Jupiter will transit the eighth and ninth houses.
The B JP government in Guj arat ^ \ under the leadership of Mr.
V. Xf Narendra Modi is likely to win jji, $ the elections again. In Mr. C, Modi's horoscope, the Sun and \ J") Mercury influence his actions Id in 2012. The Sun as the tenth ford in the eleventh is a positive combination and makes him more powerful in the political front. Mercury, as the lord of the eighth and the eleventh is in the eleventh, and will push Mr. Modi to take many more economic reforms. Indications suggest that Gujarat under the leadership of Mr. Modi could emerge a world destination. His Prime Ministers role however, will have to wait.
Free Panchanga
for January 2012, February 2012 & March 2012 with this issue
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The Bahujan Samaj Party won 206 seats in 2007 election in Uttar Pradesh. Ms. Mayawati became the Chief Minister. In 2012, we can expect a repetition. Mercury as the primary influencer will help Ms. Mayawati to emerge victorious.
Overall, the planetary patterns indicate an unfavorable outcome for the Congress Party. Moon and Mercury are the primary and secondary influencers for the party in 2012. Moon, as the fifth lord is in the seventh, in maraka sthana along with Rahu. Mercury as the seventh lord is the ninth house. The Moon's gender is Female and Mercury is a eunuch. The party's senior leader's end is foreseen.
Economy, Inflation and Markets
The Indian economy has been bad in 2011. Both the Sensex and Nifty are down by 18% in the last one year. Inflation is ending at around 9.5%, Benchmark Interest rates are have increased from 5.5% to 7.5%, petrol prices have increased by Rs. 10.00 per litre, both Industrial production and Government Budget have dropped by 5.1 % of GDP. Basic necessities have become dear. The influence of the Sun is clearly seen.
Going forward, the first half of 2012 will continue to see a downward trend. We can expect the markets to drop by another 10%. Iron, Steel and other Metal Sectors, Automobile sector, Oil and Chemicals sector, and companies with government holding will move southwards. Banking and Financial sectors, Power and Media sectors will also move southward, but at a slower pace. We may see a temporary relief in the months of May. The transit of Sun into Aries is likely to build support levels, and the markets gaining some strength. There could be an upward growth of about two to three percent during this time. Inflation can increase to around 11%, and two more upward revisions of petrol prices can be expected, once in January and then in February. The secondary influence of Mercury, indicates an increase in benchmark interest rates 50 basis points. Home loans and vehicle loans could be very high. The transit of the Sun and Mercury in bearish signs also suggest that the crops, pulses and other necessities will become dearer.
By June 2012, the secondary influence of Mercury would have subsided and Ketu's influence will begin. The markets will drop further, perhaps to another 10%. However, the benchmark interest rates are likely to reverse and likely to reduce the home and vehicle loans. Inflation can also reduce to about 8% and petrol prices can also stabilize. Throughout the year, iron, steel and metal stocks may perform badly while media and power stocks can be stable.
Other Mundane Indications
The new Samvatsara or lunar new year, Nandana, commences on March 22,2012 at around 8 pm in the evening. The first degree of Libra will be rising and thereby Vargottama. With retrograde Saturn in the ascendant and viewed by Venus
r and Jupiter, Nandana (Mercury) Venus Ketu appears to be a year of mixed Sun Jup"er results, both favorable and
unfavorable. The ruling star , Lunar Year is Uttarabhadra, ruled by
Rasi Saturn and is an Amritanadi. (Mars)
; At the time of Solar Ingress (Satlim) to Gemini in June 2011, Leo
Ascendant ^ rjsjng MarS in
it. Jupiter and Retrograde Venus occupy the tenth house and Saturn, the third. Rains this year will be below the expected levels. Farmers need to factor this or will end up facing problems. Amritanadi effects can manifest with Government providing support in the form of cloud seeding.
Further Events
There is a strange planetary formation taking place in the last week of October. Jupiter and Ketu are in conjunction in Taurus, and
Moon , Mars, Mercury and Rahu Jupiter (R) •' ; are viewing the two planets from Scorpio. Yogas or planetary combinations J October 2012 f J .
taking place in Taurus usually manifest i~!Z2— aggressively. In the case of Mercuiy Ooti im Ratu venus Scorpio, in addition to being —^LJ aggressive, they are secretive in nature. The arrangement of these five planets suggests terrorist activities or human exploitation. The affected countries include one belt from Guyana, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay and another belt from Ukraine, Turkey, Iraq, Syria via Ethiopia, Somalia and all the way to Tanzania. Planetary heat map estimates indicate Kenya and Somalia to have the highest influence.
With reference to India ruled by Virgo, Scorpio is the third house and Taurus is in the ninth house. An unhappy event is likely to take place and it could relate to religion. More details about this event will be given in the coming issues of our magazine.
The above predictions are projections only. We hope the readers and governments take note of the planetary movements and plan for greater good. •
October 2012
secretive in nature.
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Ramayana
DR. BANGALORE SURESHWARA Dr. Bangalore Sureshwara has been involved in the study of the application of Ramayana, Mahabharata, Bhagavad Gita and Vedic Astrology in modern life. His lectures and writings on Ramayana, Hinduism, Vedic Astrology, "Ramayana and Management" have been well received. He was the principal speaker on Vedic Astrology at The Second Parliament of the
World's Religions held in Chicago in August-September 1993. Dr. Sureshwara
successfully predicted the victories in the USA Presidential Elections of President Bush ( 2000 and 2004) and President Obama (2008). He has been a distinguished contributor to The
Astrological Magazine, Asia's leading Vedic Astrology journal founded in 1895 by
Professor B. Suryanarain Rao. The illustrious Dr. B. V Raman was its Editor from 1932 to 1938.
Dr. Sureshwara obtained Master's and Doctorate in Engineering from the
University of Notre Dame, USA. He has taught Civil, Structural and Mechanical Engineering at undergraduate and postgraduate levels at various universities
in USA. His varied and extensive industry experiences cover Civil, Structural, Mechanical andAerospace Engineering.
Cjuicfe to (Duties of T<jngs<Ru[ers, (priests and Others
EVEN TODAY, I distinctly remember a conversation that I had in 1989 with my father Dr. B. V. Raman, wherein we concurred that I would share with others my understanding and observations of the information that is related to the various aspects of life as embedded in Ramayana. This would encourage many to start reading Ramayana and benefit from the information contained in the eternal book. Even before that memorable conversation, it has been my passion and interest to continue to study, observe and understand the many details and information that are contained in the eternal epic Ramayana.
Sage Valmiki's magnum opus "Valmiki Ramayana" covers the story of Sri Rama. There are many popular versions and commentaries pertaining to Ramayana. Some of them have segments of the eternal story, which are somewhat different from Valmiki Ramayana. The modifications are possibly due to the authors' views and the influence of the various environments that existed in their lives. While respecting the contribution made by many authors, many scholars consider Valmiki Ramayana as the original and authoritative text.
During the last twenty plus years, we have discussed, debated and differed on various aspects of Ramayana. I hope it has helped us in better understanding of the story and the events, as well their practical application and utility at an individual, society and national levels. We are in the twenty-first century and yet the enduring and the everlasting message of Ramayana is more relevant today than ever in the history of humanity
Practical and Effective Message
Ramayana contains many stories of some individuals who exhibited extraordinary sacrifices as they were exposed to dangerous situations. Others exhibited greedy and selfish actions with practically every available opportunity. The story of Sri Rama and Ayodhya is the story of mankind. Ramayana has information that is needed to understand the strengths and weaknesses that defines every individual. It has been said that Ramayana is not only an eternal Scripture but it is also an encyclopedia covering the various aspects of life. One is reminded about a statement attributed to a person of learning, knowledge and wisdom .The wise person said "every saint has a past and every sinner has a future." The words of the wise encourage everyone to let spiritualism awaken the values and ethics that lay dormant in their fives.
The simple, but powerful and effective message contained in Ramayana, is that ultimately good triumphs over evil in any conflict. This eternal message unfolds throughout the various events covered in Ramayana. Yet, some while
apparently comprehending this message are unable to completely understand it in a way so as to put it to practical use in their lives. No wonder, to-day's world is embroiled in a variety of problems and conflicts.
Materialism and spiritualism constantly and continuously challenge human actions and behaviors. It is important to be aware that spiritualism and performance of religious rituals/rites are not always synonymous. Ramayana has shown that anyone who reaches the highest level of spiritualism is a divine person. Sri Rama is a classic example of divinity or a divine individual. On the other hand, a person with extreme materialistic value, regardless of the performance of religious and rituals or rites, has limited spiritualism. Ravana clearly belongs to this category. Sri Rama and Ravana define the "dharma- adharma" spectrum. The divine or spiritual end of the spectrum is defined by Sri Rama and the materialistic or demonic end by Ravana. A vast majority of individuals fall somewhere between the two ends of the spectrum but many need to put great efforts throughout their lives to be as near as possible to the spiritual end.
Duties of Rulers, Priests and Others
Religion or faith need to inspire people towards embedding spiritualism in their life. The turbulence of violence that exists in parts of the world possibly indicate the unhealthy influence of materialism and the challenges that spiritualism faces in the society. The study of Ramayana helps to bridge any gap that may exist in understanding the role of spiritualism in an individual's life.
Many millennium years ago, the eternal hero Sri Rama talked to Sri Bharata about the administration of a kingdom and the corresponding qualifications and responsibilities of the rulers and the various officials, based on time-tested ethics and values. We find that Sri Rama's advice and counseling to Bharata is as relevant today as it was during the Ramayana time.
The earth shaking turmoil generated by the troubling actions of Kaikeyi resulted in the self-banishment or voluntary exile of Sri Rama from Ayodhya. Bharata rejected his mother's desire and offer to make him King of Ayodhya. He reaffirmed the role of values and ethics in the Kingdom of Ayodhya. Bharata, accompanied by brother Shatrughna, minister Sumantra and the army, went looking for Sri Rama. Leaving the army near Chitrakoot mountain to ensure that any hermits in the area are not disturbed, he reached the simple hut in which Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Sita lived. The four brothers had a tear filled joyful meeting. The advice and instructions, based on well-established ethics and values, given by Sri Rama
to Bharata is covered in Canto One-hundred in the Ayodhya Kanda of Valmiki Ramayana. The dialog between Sri Rama and Bharata covering the qualifications, responsibilities and ethics required for rulers or kings, secular and spiritual advisers and various officials of the kingdom are given in the seventy-six verses contained in the Canto.
A priest is one who performs religious rites or rituals and provides spiritual information or advice. Sri Rama points out to Bharata that a priest must have humility, extensive learning, intelligence, skilled and well versed in the procedure of conducting religious rites and who is treated with respect by the king. "Atheistic" priests are not to be patronized because they are capable of manipulating the people's mind and leading them away from the right path. The phrase "atheistic priest" in plain English indicates a priest who is a "non-believer" in God. However, in practical situations as indicted in Ramayana, these are the priests who rarely perform religious rites according to the established canons of worship but primarily use their position to take advantage of the trusting devotees of God. Some even conduct religious rites with pomp and glamor that are often void of spiritualism. The term well-versed in conducting religious rites that was so clearly and eloquently expressed by Sri Rama appear to have little relevance for some in the worship of the Supreme Being today. It is not surprising that such persons, even if rare in earlier times, have existed since the Ramayana period. Perhaps, in these days, it is difficult to find priests and religious leaders who truly satisfy the indicated
qualifications referred to in Ramayana. Yet in the midst of the rubble and dust that surround the troubled religious practices, today there are still many individuals and institutions that quietly preach and practice spirituality with humility. Many of them exist in our own towns and cities. Ministers, as referenced in Ramayana, are also advisors or counselors. Sri Rama indicates that a minister/counselor needs to be one who is learned, honest, valiant and well versed in politics. In today's world it is rare to find an administrator or minister who meets the essential qualifications indicated above and is fully interested in the total welfare of the "kingdom" (city, state or country) and its "citizens" (residents).
Sri Rama says that a ruler should provide daily audience to the people. What a noble idea that He has given to the rulers of the world. It is more valid today than ever to implement the simple and yet the powerful message of meeting the ruled by the ruler. Many rulers of today have conveniently used the noble idea to benefit themselves. They meet the public not to listen to their problems, concerns, difficulties, etc., of the public, but mainly to lecture them, may be few times during an election cycle of 4 or 5 years and only to seek their votes. Once an election is over, the public is just ignored, if not entirely forgotten. Today "Ramarajya" of the golden period has been replaced by its mere shadow. Yet, the message of Sri Rama echoes all over the world. It is refreshing to see that public apathy of the past is slowly being replaced by public's outrage and demand for rulers to observe and practice value and ethics based administration. The rulers, it now appears, are also slowly starting to hear this loudly increasing echo. Positive changes are possible now.
Sri Rama's advice that the ruler's expenses should be less than the income rings loud and clear around the world. This is indeed a statement that is eternally valid. Everyone reads and discusses Ramarajya and one aspect of this learning is to merely adhere to the simple economic principle at every level as enunciated by Sri Rama. The balanced budget of a home, state or country needs disciplined spending. Today the economic experts only talk of balanced-budgets and never focus on its real implementation. But the very fact that in recent times there appears to be serious interest in implementation of balanced budgets are a silver fining to the dark cloud of financial management. Sri Rama's temple of financial management is easy to build but needs dedicated and determined efforts to make it happen sooner than later.
Sri Rama informs Bharata that a military general is one who is talented, gallant and has spotless character. Sri Rama also cautions Bharata that one should get rid of a warrior seeking "kingly power". Thus Sri Rama affirms that a ruler has to be aware of possible political or military "coup d'etat". Even during the times of Ramayana, it was recognized that sometimes wars are inevitable. A world that has produced both Mahatma Gandhi and Adolf Hitler cannot be free of peace or war for ever. Heroic warriors who have participated in battles are to be treated with honor. How often does one recognize heroic warriors today? Are they treated with honor and dignity? Sri Rama's words are strong reminders of the unfortunate reality. Heroic warriors of today, at best, get their fifteen minutes of fame and glory. And then they are often forgotten, not only by the nation but also sometimes by their near and dear ones. The rulers, on the other hand, too often climb up on the back of these heroic warriors to achieve their political ambitions.
In today's world, it is not unexpected to see a so- called good friend of a politician turn one hundred and eighty degrees to achieve the desired political power or position.
Sri Rama reminds that the tears from the eyes of falsely convicted individual destroy the king. He recognized the human fragilities of the mind and the body. An individual may be well intentioned but, unfortunately, mistakes or errors sometimes may happen. It is the duty of the ruler to rectify the mistakes immediately. Hopefully no long- term damage results from the mistakes or errors. However, as kings and rulers often have extraordinary powers, it is their duty to ensure that false serious charges never occur. Innocent individuals would not be exposed to punishment and suffering in a Ramarajya based justice system.
The information indicated here is an overview of the material contained in the seventy six verses. What is astonishing, but not surprising, is that the various requirements and qualifications indicated by Sri Rama for the rulers and others are equally valid even today. The information in Ramayana is millennium years old and yet its application is forever.
Ramayana is an Eternal Scripture and guide for rulers and people. It clearly conveys that an individual can rise to divine levels as in the case of our hero Sri Rama. It also emphasizes that a bad individual will cause suffering to the good people but ultimately will pay the price as in the case of Rakshasa Ravana.
Continued on 17
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Jyothisha
Chinta Nidhi Yajnavalkya
Impracticable Combinations
Our ancient astrological treatises give us a plethora of combinations of planets that can make or mar the characteristics of a person. In analyzing any chart these combinations can guide the astrologer to assess the quality of the horoscope, most precisely, and help him to judge the horoscope effectively. However, it must be noted that not all such combinations found in our ancient treatises can be taken up for their face value because some of them can turn to be merely impossible or impracticable ones. The scholars have taken note of all these anomalies earlier and have discussed them threadbare. The present effort of this scribe is just to alert the students of astrology that all such combinations given in various texts of yore cannot be taken for granted outright. However, it must be noted that this is in no way meant to find fault with those treatises that have given such impossible combinations.
The students, in such rare cases, must take them seriously to find whether such combinations are possible, feasible or at least practicable. If such strange combinations found in texts are found not reasonable, for our modem use, the only way out would be that they need not be given any weight, in the assessments. One need not sit on any judgment why such inconsistencies have crept into these texts.
This can save a lot of trouble for the budding astrologers. This present venture is only to whip-up support to those students, who are interested to study the subject seriously. Marital Disharmony
The quarrels between husbands and wives are nothing new and they ought to have exited perhaps from the very ancient days. But it is strange that they have not damaged the institution of marriage due to many of the social and religious embargoes. However, one can see that such instances quite common, now-a-days with many girls going back to their home discarding their husband or seek a divorce. Only then, the astrologer who had matched the cases becomes the whipping-boy.
It is interesting to note that Phaladeepika gives a combination to identify such girls who are prone to quarrelling with their husbands and make the marriage a hell or wreak it. It says that if the lords of Lagna and seventh in a girl's horoscope are placed in shastashtaka positions, (i.e., 6-8) the girl will pickup serious quarrels with her husband or even break the bond.
One must not come to any hasty conclusions in such cases where the lords of the Lagna and the seventh are placed in 6-8 positions in any girl's horoscope. It may be true that the combination could be ominous. Including the Moon, there are some fast moving planets like Mercury and Venus who come round the zodiac once in a month or at least in few months. Let us take the case of Kataka and Makara lagnas. In the first case where the lagna is Kataka the lords of the lagna and the 7th are the Moon and Saturn. In the case of Makara lagna they will be Saturn and Moon respectively. Wherever Saturn could be, is it not a fact that the Moon would occupy the 6-8 position, at least once a month from Saturn? Like this, Mercury, Venus and even the Sun can take up such positions frequently. Net result would be that such quarrelling girls would constitute the bulk of female population and en-masse we cannot brand them as cantankerous. In short it is that such combinations need not be taken up so seriously or literally to make one apprehensive of a possible horror.
Royal Births
Again, in Phaladeepika we find a combination suggesting a royal birth, if Venus is in the ascendant and in Aswini Nakshatra and further aspected by all the other planets. Evidently, this cannot happen, as at least Mercury and the Sun will have to opt out, by all means. This is because Mercury and the Sun can aspect the planet only from the 7th from it and in no way either of them can be so far away from Venus.
A combination when the Sun and the Moon are in their atyuccha or deep exaltation position is capable of ushering in a great royal personage according to Maharshi Gargi.
Can such a situation arise? It will be a good exercise for the students to work out and find whether when the Sun is in 10° Mesha, the Moon could occupy the 33°.
Bhavatbhava Principle
While attempting to assess the quality of any bhava it is of utmost necessity to look into many of the factors like its strength, the aspects or associations of planets it gets, the quality, position and strength of the bhaavaadhipa and scores of other factors.
Bhavatbhava is a special method of assessing the qualities of any particular bhava, not only from the concerned bhava but also from the house, counted as much, from the concerned bhava, as the latter is from Lagna. Under this scheme, the matters concerning father can be measured from the 5th bhava also because it is the 9th from the 9th.
The logic is that while the 9th bhava can portray matters
connected with the father of the native, the 9th from that bhava can elucidate it further.
Likewise the traits of the 2nd house can be considered
from the 3rd house also as it is the 2nd from the second
house. Likewise, 3rd can be gauged from the 5th which is
the 3rd to the 3rd; the 4th from the 7th which is the 4th from
the 4th and so on. This is the Bhavatbhava principle.
Going a step further, the results of any bhava can be enlarged by taking it as the Lagna, from where its twelve bhavas could be analyses and assessed. For example the progeny of brother can be examined from the 7th, as it is
the 5th from the 3rd.
Bhavasya yassaiva phalam vichintyam Bhavam cha tarn lagnamiti prakalpya / Tasmadwadeddwadasa bhavajaani
Phalani tadroopadhanaadhikaani //
Whenever the effects of any bhava are to be determined, that bhava should be considered as the Lagna. The effects of the twelve houses reckoned there-from should then be examined and results arrived at.
There is another rule that prescribes the bhava assessments from the position of the respective kanakas. For example the progeny could be examined not only from the 5th but also from the 5th house from where Jupiter, the
Putrakaraka is posited, in the horoscope.
The Bhavatbhava principle enlarges the scope for assessments of various bhavas, making it more incisive and insightful. h
Everlasting Guide
We have only scratched at the surface of Ramayana. The remarkable thing is that Sri Rama has provided the essential ingredients for rule of Dharma. Thousands and thousands of years have passed since the time of Sri Rama but the information in Canto 100 of Ayodhya Kanda is as valid today as it was during the Ramayana period. One can enjoy the story of Sri Rama by reading Ramayana. But reading it many times opens the door to go beyond the printed word and enables one to grasp and understand the vast knowledge and wisdom contained in it. Devotion provides the intuition to visualize the events as if they are happening in front of our eyes. By the Grace of Lord Sri Rama, the wisdom and knowledge contained in it is easily available for anyone to imbibe, apply and use it.
Ramayana, Guide to Duties of Rulers (continued from 14)
The objective of the discussion is to help each other in surface of Ramayana. sharing the story of Sri Rama and other characters. We Rama has provided the are plain and simple mortals in this vast universe, who are )harma. Thousands and trying to understand the message that Sage Valmiki has ice the time of Sri Rama provided through the pages of Ramayana. At any time of Ayodhya Kanda is as during the discussion, we do not have to always agree on Ramayana period. One the various views, opinions or comments. The strength by reading Ramayana. of the discussion lies in the fact that they provide us an the door to go beyond opportunity to critically and objectively evaluate the events to grasp and understand and incidents contained in the story and then come to our :ontained in it. Devotion own conclusions. It is important to remember that any the events as if they are conclusions arrived at must be based on a dignified y the Grace of Lord Sri approach and devotion to Sri Rama.
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Ashtama
Guru WILLIAM R. LEVACY
William R. (Bill) Levacy holds a BA in Literature, a Master's in the Science of Creative Intelligence, and a Master's in Education. Bill is currently a PhD Candidate in Education at Capella University, with a specialization in Human Performance Improvement (HPI). Bill is the author of, "Beneath a Vedic Sky," "Beneath a Vedic Sun," and "Vedic Astrology Simply Put." He is a recipient of the 2011 "Jyotish Medha Pragya" award by the Indian Council of Astrological Sciences (ICAS) in New Delhi, India. Bill is President of the American College of Vedic Astrology™ (ACVA), and the ACVAOnline ™ educational program at www.acvaonline.ors. Bill has maintained an active Vedic astrology practice since 1983 with thousands of clients around the world. Bill lives in Southern California and can be reached at www.vedicastroloser. com.
MANY JYOTISH SHASTRAS indicate the sign of Pisces, its ruler Jupiter, and the 12thhouse to be the
indicators of Moksha or liberation. Persons with strong and favorable connections to the 12th house, and a well placed Jupiter, often exhibit spiritual tendencies and have a releasing disposition ... from material cravings to the opening of one's spirit to unshakeable tranquility. However, the examination of the charts of public gurus in the last couple of decades reveals another set of criteria for spiritual leaders, especially those who have worked in the West. It is that of Scorpio, its ruler Mars and the 8th house...the Ashtama Gurus who demonstrate transformative vigor aimed at mystical transcendence, the secrets of the Self, and life mastery.
This article will examine those indications of the 8th house, Mars, and Scorpio and how they apply to the charts of several modern Gurus. The favorable qualities of these 8th place indicators will be reviewed to help us understand how the 8th house and its characteristics could lead a person to assume the role of a guru or spiritual leader of some fashion in these active, modern times.
Traditional 8th House Indications
As is the case in many classic texts, Laghu Parashari, for example, indicates that the ruler of the 8th house due to its placement of 12th from the 9th does not produce good results. Traditional expositions of the 8th house tend to focus on end-of-life matters, sexual and eliminative functions, legacies, and the unknown. Parashara indicates the concerns of the 8th house as indicative of "longevity, wealth of the dead, and things that have happened and are to happen (in the past and future births)." Parashara also states that 8th house is an intuitive house in that it gives a person the ability to know "that which is not stated." Vyankatesh Sharma's "Sarvarth Chintamani," lists "guyha" or hidden matters as an 8th house trait, along with ayu (life) and randhra (bad). Bhatt Narayana's Chamatkar Chintamani says that the 8th house is an indicator for "occult matters, " The hidden influences of the 8th can bring about trouble from servants and those
close by through revealing secrets. Rama Dayalu's Sanketa Nidhi, calls the 8th , the house of mysteries. Sanketa Nidhi also indicates the 8th house as representing "fear from enemies, imprisonment, and acting in an unbecoming manner." Symbolically, as well as literally, Sanketa Nidhi identifies "crossing the river" as a trait of the 8th house. The 8th house is concerned with matters related to "crossing over" or death, perhaps even symbolic death and rebirth. Mantreshwara's Phaladeepika while mirroring Parashara's emphasis on longevity and death, expands 8th house descriptions to include impediments due to impurity, embarrassments, chronic indebtedness, and all around sorrow. Mantreshwara also provides the rule that "if the lord of the house under examination is in the 6th, 8th, or 12th from the Lagna, that house is destroyed. The same will be the results if that house is occupied by the Lords of the 6th, 8th, or 12th. As we will see in the next section of this article, a benefic aspect on the 8th house can mitigate some of the negative energy and can promote the positive end of the scale.
The 8th House can be Favorable
Pandit Ojha, in Predictive Astrology of the Gurus, (p. 110) states that "apparently contradictory matters, such as longevity and death, happiness, and mental distress, etc. are really not contradictory but represent the positive and negative aspects of the same content." Mantreshwara, alerts us that all rules of Vedic astrology have a favorable and unfavorable dimension to them. In the case of the dusthanas, including the 8th, if the house
concerned is aspected by a benefic, it will in fact flourish. As such, Mantreshwara is making us aware that the 8th house can also indicate the opportunity for an improvement of a life condition. If one is beset with obstacles (vighna), then it would be the recognition of obstacles, or creating more discernment, that would allow an individual to navigate around these barriers, setbacks, or delays (or transcend them) and move forward. If a person had many impurities (asuchi) that diminished their life force, then the removal of those afflictions could lead to a healing transformation and more vitality (life). If a person was
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confused and "mystified" then a benefic 8 house could display the intelligence (pragya) needed to lead others to clarity and true perception. It could create a disposition for mastering the transcendental knowledge. The 8th, in
this regard could represent the discernment and skill to lead others out of darkness and into the higher insights of consciousness and good health. This is what gurus do. They remove doubt and darkness. They are the captains of consciousness that guide their followers "across the
Bhatt Narayana's Chamatkar Chintamani tells us that the 8th house can indicate a person with "imposing
personahty, charitable, jovial, and learned." B.Suryanarain Rao, Dr. B.V. Raman's grandfather, in his Astrological Primer, offers another ray of hope from the 8th house by
calling it a place of "final emancipation," rather than strictly a position for judging end of physical life or becoming fatalistic about dealing with life's limitations. Rama Dayalu's Sanketa Nidhi, lists the 8th house as a place of
both happiness and of misery, as well as a place where diseases originate, (opening up the consideration for diagnoses and cure). Dayalu also tells us that a benefic 8th house can "bestow wealth upon the native." Kalidasa's
Utttakalamitra identifies happiness as a quality of the 8th house. An astrological work from Kerala called
Prasna Marga (translated into English by Dr. B. V. Raman), indicates that a benefic in the 8th can increase
health and longevity, make a person courageous, and give them the capacity to acquire new houses and spiritual residences. Venkatesh Sharma's Sarvartha Chintamani indicates that "if there is influence of benefic planets on the 8th house, there is no defeat for the native."
As described above, the 8th house is not always bad. As
is the focus of this article, the 8th house can be indicative
of those advanced characteristics. These can be seen in the charts of dynamic gurus who teach us to transcend life's challenges and take action towards inner and outer happiness.
Fig. 1 Scorpio is the 8th sign of the Zodiac, Ruled by Mars
Fig. 2 The 8th house from any Rasi Lagna, Sun or Moon will carry the influence of Scorpio
The genesis of 8 house gurus can be seen more fully in the descriptions of Scorpio, as 8th sign, and its ruler Mars.
Many of these astrological indications are generally applicable to the favorable 8th chart position.
Indications of Scorpio: Transformation and Transcendence
Dr. B.V. Raman in Hindu Predictive Astrology, tells us that Scorpios are sensual beings yet will philosophize on the merits of controlling the senses. They have a philosophic disposition, like excitement, are friendly and invite the goodwill of people around the world. Their international capacity is expanded by their tendency not to be limited by conventions and customs.
Dr. Bh. Satyanarayana Rao in A Text Book of Scientific Astrology, describes many of the Scorpio traits that empower 8th house/sign gurus. "Scorpio has many abilities
generally latent in him, but when aroused, or set into action, is capable of attaining eminence. He has unusual activity, vitahty, and recuperative power. He has unusual interest in all psychic subjects and mysteries of nature, and makes an excellent research worker on original and novel lines. His ability for occultism is immense. He breaks down theories which are either antiquated or irrational, though he has respect for time honored customs."
H. Majumder, in his book, Hindu Science of the Future, lists some of the traits of Scorpio as, "does not care for other's criticism and faces everything stubbornly and challenges its critics. Anything that causes obstruction (his tendency is) to fight; ...is an upsetter of existing ideas and ways of living." Majumder lists the favorable characteristics of Scorpio "to love, or be affectionate, to arrange things, to adorn, to be alert, to guard, to act as the police."
Bala Bhadra's Hora Ratnam, describes the sign of Scorpio as "a place of hiding," and a "hole" or "cave". Such descriptions bring to mind the reclusive nature of a spiritual seeker and the traditional factors of seeking caves and remote places in which to nurture spiritual growth in infinite
silence.
Example Charts from Famous World Gurus The following "Gurus" led or are leading large organizations around the world both in the West and the East. These organizations are basically self-improvement/ transformational operations led by powerful and successful leader-teachers. You will notice in examining their charts that the 8th sign of Scorpio, the 8th house from the Lagna,
Sun, or Moon, and the planet Mars plays a significant role. It is also interesting to note those situations where a node,
www.astroloaicalmaaazine.com
or "karmic point" occupies the 8th house or Scorpio in
these master's charts.
This article is meant to stimulate further research into those planetary indicators that identify a person who has the energy, capacity, and general wisdom to lead a large group of people to a state of high evolution, health, and happiness. As we know, while the indicators for spiritual greatness are present in these example charts, the individuals noted have various spans of time and depth of
reach in their spiritual destinies. They are in a sense controllers of consciousness, researching the ancient shastras (East and West), to help the masses transcend the limits of mundane life. Due to constraints of space in this article, biographies were not provided—hoping these persons were at least famous enough to spark your memory about their place in the world. If you would like to see a biography of each individual, you can search for them on the internet, by name or in places like Wikipedia.com or astrodatabank. Gum Chopra Mukhtananda Rajncesh Arnmachi Adi-DaSamfSj Aurobindu Btl lyGra ham WemerErhard
Summary of Astrological Indicators for Eight World-Gurus or Spiritual Leaders
Mo 8thLA j Mo&ThSu Su&thLA lASthMo USthSu ISu8thMo Scorpio PI in 8th Su, J u. Ma, Mo Su, Me Sa, Mo, Me, Vs, Ma
Ve Ma,Ju m
(xi22.\to6m5M NewDehi. IN. India jiBirJi Chart
teCM
Deepak Chopra Moon S^from Lagna Ketu in Scorpio Rahu 8,,, from Sun
H IK
|FraiikiftJiXiMNi>rJ,W39H;21M Janaica.ffewWUSA (Birth Chart "
Frartklm Jones (Ad I Da Sam raj) Moon 8th from Lagna
Exalted Mars 8th from Moon
II IMuHaairia Mivl6,l»:8M il;3S Otomesaaia. Kamatafca, India
'fBnaOBTt
Swami Muktananda SunS11 from Moon
Ketu from Sun
lAmnachi W:10CC Mtau, Kaala, trm ll'BPtCkit RauiiM Sa itii ■■KM 'ON Gkicusn UiM Ammachi Moon 8* from Lagna
Ve kouij Maujdfi Si! 10)1 Ku Measot mite
Ieeii D« HJiJl 17:13:00 Kufclwsda.Greial. India BiriCtM iSLUsra AS2ltSU Rajneesh (Osho) Sun in Scorpio Moon in S11' from Lagna
5 Planets in S^fromLagna 'sws biM Ms-iiAd M>lA4 MWi uam tarn *W SriAurobirdoAMlMSTIOjiOOflO CelcUla,Ma idiscsp feW IteiA ItaftClah kfe(Ai) IA!U SQN IttW am Miiapw —!TR
Sri Aurobindo (kwnhs ASIlilAd Lagna 8* from Moon
Ketu in Scorpio
Three "planets" 8* from Moon
JjlliiAil ^lUftlOEq — Ve
a*
iBayGrahM Na'7.1918153t:«CMiMlii, HoilhCanifca,UM KBithOiat IwaMErtianiSai.mimoCT Ri ■I'Biitt Chait ILAW ttlM M(Ali SaRuasv mw 4H Asm si. Werner Erhard
Moon in Scorpio Gk liui Tm Ructiaka Yoga from Lagna ,Moon,
fi. Sun
RahuS^from Lagna Ketu S*1 from Moon
