Sidereal Zodiac:
Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac (fixed star system) rather than the tropical zodiac used in Western astrology. This means that Vedic calculations account for the precession of the equinoxes.
Vedic Astrology, also known as Jyotish Shastra (the "science of light"), is an ancient system of astrology that originated in India. It is based on the Vedas, the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, and is deeply rooted in Indian spiritual and cultural traditions. Vedic astrology focuses on the positions and movements of celestial bodies, such as planets and stars, to understand human destiny and life events.
Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac (fixed star system) rather than the tropical zodiac used in Western astrology. This means that Vedic calculations account for the precession of the equinoxes.
A Vedic horoscope is divided into 12 houses, each representing a specific area of life (e.g., career, relationships, health).
The houses are fixed in meaning, but the signs and planets placed within them influence their interpretation.
The Navagrahas are the Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangal), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Guru), Venus (Shukra), Saturn (Shani), Rahu (North Node of the Moon), and Ketu (South Node of the Moon).
The signs are the same as those in Western astrology, such as Aries (Mesha), Taurus (Vrishabha), Gemini (Mithuna), and so on, but their placement differs due to the sidereal system.
The Moon's movement through 27 Nakshatras is a unique feature of Vedic astrology. Each Nakshatra has its own qualities, ruling deities, and planetary associations.
Vedic astrology includes a system of predictive periods called Dashas, primarily using the Vimshottari Dasha system. These are periods when specific planets influence a person’s life.
Vedic astrology views life events as the unfolding of past karma (actions) and emphasizes aligning with one’s dharma (life purpose) to achieve spiritual growth.