Introduction to Vedic Astrology

Indian Astrology, also known better as Vedic Astrology, is a modern term that refers to a highly developed and complex system of divination from ancient India. This highly developed sacred knowledge, traditionally called Jyotisha in Sanskrit, has been well preserved through oral transmission from teacher to student for over 6,000 years. Jyotisha means the light of the heavens. It is this light that gives us an insight into the unseen realms of our lives.

Vedic astrology, or Jyotisha (Sanskrit), reveals the 'cosmic clock' of potential opportunities and challenges that may manifest in our present lifetime. This 'cosmic clock' is based on the movements of planets with respect to the 12 zodiacal constellations against a backdrop of 27 fixed stars. The multitude of permutations and combinations interacting within this highly complex system reveals a cosmic kaleidoscope for divination.

The sages of ancient India were able to see through this kaleidoscope and marvel at the dance of the planets and stars in the sky, and interpret the language of the heavens. These sages were able to provide an elaborate treatise on astronomy, mundane, horary (based on the time a specific question was asked), electional (elect an auspicious time to initiate an event) and predictive astrology. During ancient times this system was used primarily for preparing calendars and almanacs, religious rituals, matching couples for matrimony and naming a newborn.

Some of this tradition is very much alive in the daily fabric of today's Indian society. To this day, this form of astrology is still used to help alleviate suffering and help map out a direction and purpose in the realms of marriage, education, family, health, wealth, spirituality and daily living by helping to determine the most opportune time to initiate an event, be it a journey or start of an important endeavour. Discover more about this spiritual practice at World Yoga Festival this July, with a series of workshops led by expert Swami Svatmananda. Book your tickets now.