Vedic Astrology

Most of us are familiar with Zodiac signs and reading our horoscope for the day or month, but other cultures practice other forms of astrology. Vedic astrology is more of a lifestyle than a practice. While it does parallel western beliefs, Vedic is a discipline of the body as well as the mind. In this article, we'll look at this eastern philosophy and examine how it can be used in tandem with its western counterpart.

Vedic astrology is very different from western astrology. In the west, it is more Freudian and focuses on basic thinking patterns and the essence of self. Based on this logic, Western astrology readings attempt to predict what you can expect in the future. It is very logical and leaves little space for the unknown. Contrarily, Vedic is more interested in the kind of karma you have brought into this life. In addition to the planets commonly found in western astrology, Vedic has two additional imaginary planets; Rahu and Ketu. Rahu represents mystery and cruelty. Ketu represents Karmic collections (good & bad), spirituality and spiritual experiences. Where, in the house of these planets, they reside at the time of one's birth will determine one's destiny and is called a horoscope or "Kundli" in India.

Vedic astrologers try to help people understand the role and expression of karma in individual and collective life. Hindus believe that humans have fortune and misfortune because of karma. The core of Vedic is the Dasha system, a system based upon the position of the moon at birth. At the time of one's birth, whichever planet is prominent in the Zodiac at the time, will determine the quality of life one will experience. Because of the Dasha system, it is believed that the timing and nature of events can be predicted years in advance with accuracy.

Before our society chose to follow science and medicine, astrology for the masses was a very common practice for every day occurrences. Vedic astrology is practiced the same way. The philosophy is used to choose mates, professions and other common decisions. Vedic creates a synthesis between body and mind to expand consciousness and achieve a state of harmony. This theory also incorporates the dietary belief that meat pollutes the body, while vegetables nourish the mind and soul.

The devotees of Vedic astrology lead a very pure and holistic way of life. The philosophy is similar to western astrology, in that the readings are derived from the sun and planets. It diagnoses a person's nature according to the details of their birth and forecasts the future using that information. However, Vedic is far more encompassing means of existence that requires utter faith and dedication to the belief. Regardless of which discipline you choose to follow, the purpose of astrology is to guide you toward a fuller, more harmonious life.