Rationale of Astrology

In modern scientific times, Astrology is considered to be a mysterious subject. It is known in society by different flavours, as a Science, as a subject of intuition, a subject related to nature and a tool to exploit the people in crisis. Each thought has its own logic and it is difficult to accept any or reject any thought straightway. Therefore, we will evaluate every thought in the as-is process and come up with our conclusion.

Astrology as Science

According to some experts, Astrology is science being practised since the very beginning of the Vedic Age. It has a systematic study, well-accepted principles, use of science like mathematics, astronomy etc. It is not merely a game of random sampling or probability theory for happening or not happening of any particular event in natives’ life.

Predictions are done based on planetary positions, aspects, the position of Nakshatras and Zodiac etc. In a number of times, predictions become accurate also. At least scenarios become similar to predictions, there may be variation in severity.

However, the accuracy of predictions of different astrologers varies in a number of cases, which shows the gap in interpretation of the same rules. There are different systems Paddhati’s like Parasari Jyotish, KP Paddhati, Nadi Astrology etc. All systems have their own rules which vary significantly from each other in results too. The absence of common parameter and results, confuse the beginners in its acceptability as a science.

Astrology as Study of Nature

In view of some Astrology experts, Astrology is a study of nature. According to them, nature is capable enough to answer all our questions about happening or not happening of any particular event. The study of Astrology is similar to Yoga, Ayurveda and Vastu.

In the case of Yoga most of the Asana,s are named on animal behaviour. Like Makarasan (Crocodile posture), Markatasan (Monkey posture), Tadasan (Tad tree posture) etc. Yoga suggests adopting certain activities of animals and trees to create harmony with nature for graceful life.

In the case of Ayurveda, people are encouraged to use different herbs and plants to improve their life. Vastu also suggests placing the kitchen on the Agneya side. In kitchen, there is the use of fire. Sun is a fiery planet in nature, which is good for keeping the kitchen insect-free with its strong rays.

Likewise in Astrology too, every planet has a particular character. For example, Sun and Mars have fiery character, Moon and Venus has Watery character, Jupiter and Venus has Airy Character and Mercury is the planet nearest to earth is considered to be earthy in nature. The above planets have defined transitory effects on human life based on their position in a natal chart.

Therefore, astrology can be defined as a systematic study of nature and its impact on human life.

Astrology as subject of Meditation

In some Branches of Astrology, predictions are given based on Yog Vidya of the Astrologer.  Generally, it is based on some time-based calculations, positions of the astrologer at just in time basis or purely his intuitive power. I have heard about some people who don’t have any formal education in astrology but predicted very accurately.

Astrology as a Superstition

In a number of cases, people are found claiming themselves as supermarkets providing solutions to all problems. May it be a Financial Problem, Employment Issue, Marriage dispute, Divorce, Property Dispute etc. They offer packaged solutions for all problems. In a way, they create a drama “Dhakhosala” and extract big money from people suffering in their life.

Sometimes some high-profile incidences of “Thugy” are reported frequently in newspapers or other media. This is also a reality in the Astrology sector. Many peoples find them sceptical in nature and behaviour.

What is Astrology?

This is a very difficult question to answer. Many peoples have a different experience with this subject. I have limited idea and experience about this subject. However, I will try to find the solutions to all the concerns raised in different sections.

First of all, human life is very complex in nature. All peoples are unique in nature and energy level. The nature and life of two persons born at the same place and time also vary significantly. Therefore, any rule may not apply to all the people in the same severity.  

Astrology is not limited to predicting the happening or non-happening of any event. It has more wide scope and impact on human life. It is the study of time and space too. Astrology gives due importance to Karma’s. Through Astrology a person can learn the following arts in his life-

1-     How to live life in harmony with nature i.e. peaceful, graceful.

2-     Know thyself i.e. Who am I? What is my true form? Any illusion in this understanding can create bad karmas and invite consequences.

3-     Astrology is a Para Vidya. Probably Para Vidya means intellect or knowledge which is inclined towards service to humans with selfless motive (Paropkar). Although some people have made it as Apara Vidya for self-interest. It is not a problem with the subject but the problem with people.

In totality, the prediction portion of Astrology is very insignificant. Due to the loss of many scriptures, the problem in the interpretation of Slopkas from Sanskrit, lack of intelligent students in this line has put a limitation. 

In ancient ages, Gurus were very particular and cautious about selecting their students. They ensure that students possess dedication and commitment about respecting the end-use of wisdom in their life and they are committed to service to society selflessly. In the modern age probably it is difficult which results in misuse of Astrology by a few Neem Hakeem type people. Therefore character building must be a part of the curriculum.

I am in process of learning the prediction principles, therefore cannot comment on their rationale at this time. However, in personal life prediction of two professional Astrologers failed.     

Being a beginner in this subject I do accept the importance of this subject in human life at least for spiritual progress.