Vedic Astrology Seminar Course Materials - July 2011

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER
THE FOUR ELEMENTS OF ASTROLOGY

The divine science of astrology has four major elements. These are signs, houses,
planets and planetary periods.
1. SIGNS
The first element of astrology is signs. They are twelve in number and are ruled by
the planets as follows:
Number
Signs
Lords (Rulers)
1.
Aries
Mars
2.
Taurus
Venus
3.
Gemini
Mercury
4.
Cancer
Moon
5.
Leo
Sun
6.
Virgo
Mercury
7.
Libra
Venus
8.
Scorpio
Mars
9.
Sagittarius
Jupiter
10.
Capricorn
Saturn
11.
Aquarius
Saturn
12.
Pisces
Jupiter
2. HOUSES
The second element of astrology is houses. There are 12 houses in a horoscope and
each house deals with specific significations.
The significations of the houses are experienced during the planetary periods
connected with them. The houses are good and bad. For example, the sixth, eighth
and twelfth houses are known as malefic (bad) houses, as these rule diseases,
obstructions, and losses, respectively. The other houses are considered benefic
(good).
3. PLANETS
ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP
In predictive astrology we consider the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter,
Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu as planets.
The Sun and the Moon are the luminary planets; Rahu and Ketu are the shadowy
planets (mathematical points) that create the eclipses of the Sun and the Moon.
As the planets Pluto, Neptune and Uranus neither have a lordship over a house, nor
have a planetary period of their own, they are not considered in the predictive
astrology known as Jyotish.
The planets signify various things including the specific body parts and the
functional system of health.
For example, the Sun is personified as a king in the planetary cabinet. Persons
having the Moon, the significator of mind in the sign of the Sun would have the
mental frame of enjoying the life like a king, i.e., of thinking big.
The Sun signifies father, husband and male children. The Sun also rules heart,
digestive system and vitality. The Moon rules the lungs, fluids in body, lymphatic
system, etc.
Additionally, the planets govern the house(s) in a chart where their signs fall. For
example, if the sign Leo (ruled by the Sun) falls in the eighth house, the Sun would
rule the significations of the eighth house.
The planets attain benefic or malefic functional nature in a horoscope based on the
lordship of benefic or malefic houses.
The planets may be weak or strong. The functional malefic planets when influencing
other planets or houses cause afflictions to them.
4. PLANETARY PERIODS
Though various types of planetary periods for specific planetary combinations are
mentioned in classical texts, we will consider only Vimshotri dasa system, as this is
universally applicable for all combinations in a chart.
Based on the longitude of the Moon in the natal chart, we calculate the operational
major period of a particular planet and the balance of the period yet to be
operational.
The planets according to their strength in a horoscope give results of the
significations and houses ruled by them in their sub periods.
CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY
NATAL CHART: The natal (birth) chart, also known as a horoscope, reveals the
positions of the ascendant and planets in various signs as noted for the time of the
birth. Natal positions, therefore, are fixed.
The planetary positions noted with reference to a particular chart for subsequent
periods of time, is known as a transit or transit position chart.
CONJUNCTIONS: When two or more planets are seen in close proximity in the
zodiac, they are said to be in conjunction with each other. The conjunction can be
exact or close.
If two or more planets have the same longitude, the conjunction is known as an exact
conjunction. If the longitudinal difference happens to be less than five degrees, it is
known as a close conjunction.
ASPECTS: Planets are said to "throw" or "cast" aspects, which influence other signs
and houses. These aspects can be partial or full. In this book, we are concerned
only with full aspects.
Each planet aspects the seventh house from its own location in the chart.
In addition to this seventh house aspect, planets posited outside the orbit of the
earth (Saturn, Mars, and Jupiter) as well as the shadowy nodes, Rahu and Ketu,
have additional special full aspects as shown in the next table:
Saturn aspects third and tenth houses from its location.

Mars aspects fourth and eighth houses from its location.
Jupiter, Rahu and Ketu aspect fifth and ninth houses
from their location.
Planets influence other houses/planets aspected by them favourably or unfavourably,
depending upon their functional nature in a chart.
The principle of exact or close aspect is identical to exact or close conjunction.
Similarly, when two or more planets mutually aspect each other to the same degree
or a planet casts its aspect exactly on the most effective point of a house or houses,
the aspect is known as an exact aspect.
If this aspect is within a difference of five degrees, then the aspect is known as a
close aspect.
The conjunctions or aspects with more than five degrees difference are wide
conjunctions or aspects. These do not have permanent impact in life except for the
short-lived transit influences on the planets involved.
PLANETARY STATES: The planetary states are the conditions in which a planet is
placed. The prominent states and the results produced are as follows:
INFANCY: There are 30 degrees in a sign. Wherever the longitude of a planet in a
particular sign is 0 to 5 degrees, it is said to be in the state of infancy. Such a planet
is incapable of fully promoting or protecting the significations or houses it rules.
OLD AGE: Wherever the longitude of a planet in a particular sign is 25 to 30
degrees it is said to be in the state of old age. Such a planet is incapable of fully
promoting or protecting the significations or houses it rules.
OWN SIGN: A planet in its own sign is treated as strong, and is capable of
generating excellent results, provided it is not in the state of infancy, old age or
debilitated in the navamsa (divisional chart).
MOOLTRIKONA SIGN
A planet in its mooltrikona sign avoiding the state of infancy, old age or debilitation
in the navamsa or other divisional charts is treated as very powerful.
Each planet has one sign as its mooltrikona sign, which helps in identifying the
functional nature of the planets.
Planet
Mooltrikona Sign
Sun
Leo
Moon
Cancer
Mars
Aries
Mercury
Virgo
Jupiter
Sagittarius
Venus
Libra
Saturn
Aquarius
EXALTATION
The planets are considered to be in the state of exaltation in particular signs and
give good results by promoting their general significations and the houses ruled by
them, provided they are otherwise strong.
Planet
Exaltation Sign
Sun
Aries
Moon
Taurus
Mars
Capricorn
Mercury
Virgo
Jupiter
Cancer
Venus
Pisces
Saturn
Libra
Rahu
Taurus
Ketu
Scorpio
DEBILITATION
The planets are considered to be in the state of debilitation and weak if occupying a
particular sign and they fail to fully protect or promote the general significations
ruled by them. Rather, there can be deterioration in their ruling sub periods.
Planet
Debilitation Sign
Sun
Libra
Moon
Scorpio
Mars
Cancer
Mercury
Pisces
Jupiter
Capricorn
Venus
Virgo
Saturn
Aries
Rahu
Scorpio
Ketu
Taurus
COMBUSTION: Whenever, a planet comes very near to the Sun it loses its
brightness. This is called combustion. While in the state of combustion, the planets
fail to protect their general significations and the significations of the houses ruled
by them due to malefic transit influences. If such a weak planet is weak on other
accounts too, the significations ruled by them never take birth.
The planets are said to be combust when they are within a range of degrees on either
side of the Sun:
Planet
Combust If Within
Moon
12 degrees
Mars
17 degrees
Mercury
14 degrees
Venus
10 degrees
Jupiter
11 degrees
Saturn
15 degrees
AFFLICTED PLANETS: The planets forming close conjunctions or aspects with the
functional malefic planets are treated as afflicted planets. The significations of the
houses having mooltrikona sign of an afflicted planet are harmed when such planets
are weak, too.
AFFLICTING PLANETS: The functional malefic planets are known as afflicting
planets.
WEAK PLANETS: The weak planets do not find themselves capable of protecting or
promoting their general significations and houses ruled by them during their sub
periods or at the time of the malefic transit influences.
Planets Are Weak If:
They are combust due to their nearness to the Sun.
Occupy dusthana houses from the ascendant.
They occupy their signs of debilitation.
They are in the state of infancy or old age.
They occupy debilitated navamsa and other divisions.
They are occupying the mooltrikona sign of a weak
planet on any of the above mentioned accounts.
The Moon is weak when it is within 72 degrees of either side of the Sun.
Those planets, which are involved in close conjunctions or aspects with the
functional malefic planets, are known as afflicted planets.
Afflicting planets are the functional malefic planets. It is very necessary to
understand the difference in the afflicting planets and the afflicted planets.
STRONG PLANETS
The strong planets protect and promote their general significations and the houses
where their mooltrikona signs fall.
Planets Are Strong When They:
Are not in the state of weakness.
Are in the young age (between 10 to 20 degrees) in a
particular sign.
Occupy their own or good navamsas and other
divisions.
Occupy their mooltrikona signs.
Are closely under the influence of the functional
benefic planets.
Have dispositors that are also strong.
DISPOSITOR
Dispositor is a planet in whose sign another planet is located in the natal chart.
Suppose in a natal chart the Sun is placed in the sign Libra ruled by Venus. In this
case Venus will be the dispositor (landlord) of the Sun.
DIVISIONAL CHARTS
The divisional charts are the charts that are drawn by division of houses for
specialised analysis of a particular signification.
For example, the navamsa (9th divisional chart) is used for considering general
fortune and marriage, etc., and the dasamsa (10th divisional chart) is used for
considering occupation and professional career and matters in a horoscope.
YOGAKARAKA PLANETS
These are planets that own a kendra (houses 1, 4, 7, or 10) and a trikona (houses 5 or
9) simultaneously in a chart.
These yogakarakas are the first rate functional benefic planets.
When strong, they produce excellent results through their close influence on any
planet or house.
The following planets become yogakarakas:
Ascendant
Yogakaraka Planet
Cancer and Leo
Mars
Capricorn and Aquarius
Venus
Taurus and Libra
Saturn
SIGNIFICATORS
In addition to ruling the houses containing their signs, the planets also act as
"significators" for various houses. Planets act as significators for the following
houses:
Planet
House(s) It Signifies
Sun
First, ninth and tenth houses.
Moon
Fourth house
Mars
Third and tenth houses
Mercury
Sixth and tenth houses
Jupiter
Second, fifth, ninth and eleventh houses
Venus
Fourth, seventh and twelfth houses
Saturn
Longevity, that is for the eighth house.
AUSPICIOUS CONJUNCTIONS (RAJYOGAS): The close or exact conjunctions or

aspects of strong functional benefic planets cause auspicious planetary
configurations known as Rajyogas.
The planets involved in Rajyogas bless the native with name, fame, wealth, comforts,
etc., during their sub periods.
INAUSPICIOUS CONJUNCTIONS (DURYOGAS): The close or exact conjunctions
or aspects of strong functional malefic planets with other planets or the most
effective points of various houses cause inauspicious planetary configurations known

as duryogas or combinations for misfortunes.
The planets involved in duryogas cause miseries or tragedies as per their nature and
lordships, during their sub periods.
MOST MALEFIC PLANET (MMP)
If there is a mooltrikona sign in the eighth house from the ascendant, its lord is
called the most malefic planet (MMP).
In case there is no mooltrikona sign in the eighth house then the role of the MMP is
played by the lord of the twelfth house containing the mooltrikona sign. And if there
is no mooltrikona sign in the twelfth house also, then the role of the MMP is played
by Ketu.
The most malefic planets are as under:

ASCENDANT
MOST MALEFIC PLANET
Aries
Ketu
Taurus
Jupiter
Gemini
Ketu
Cancer
Saturn
Leo
Moon
Virgo
Mars
Libra
Mercury
Scorpio
Venus
Sagittarius
The Moon
Capricorn
The Sun
Aquarius
Mercury
Pisces
Venus
MOST BENEFIC PLANET

Each ascendant has a most benefic planet as follows:
ASCENDANT
MOST BENEFIC PLANET
10
Aries
Moon
Taurus
Sun
Gemini
Mercury
Cancer
Venus
Leo
Mercury
Virgo
Jupiter
Libra
Jupiter
Scorpio
Saturn
Sagittarius
Sun
Capricorn
Mars
Aquarius
Venus
Pisces
Mars
MEASURING STRENGTH OF THE HOUSES

The strength of the houses and the signs is gauged through the strength of their
lords and the conjunctions or aspects to the most effective point of the houses.
Birth Chart/Natal Chart/Horoscope
The birth chart, which is known as the natal chart or horoscope, can be drawn in
many ways but in this workshop we will use the Northern Indian style chart.
CHART STYLE
The Northern Indian chart style is the best form of drawing a chart as it provides a
very easy comprehension of the chart at a mere glimpse.
To draw this chart by hand, simply start with a square box; then draw an "X" from
the upper left to the lower right, and from the upper right to the lower left; then
finish by drawing a diamond shape starting at the middle of the top.
Northern Indian Style Chart
11
The twelve houses are counted counter-clockwise starting with the diamond shape at
the top.
II
XII
I
III
IV
V
XI
X
VII
VI
IX
VIII
This Northern Indian chart style shows the kendras, trines, and how the planets are
positioned at a glance. The kendra and trine houses are indicated as follows:
This chart style also shows

whether any planet is
posited in the malefic
Kendra Houses 1, 4, 7, & 10
Trine Houses 5 & 9
houses. The sixth, eighth
and twelfth houses in a chart are known as malefic houses. Malefic houses have
been marked as follows:
Malefic Houses: 6, 8, & 12
12
The lord of the sign of a house is called the lord of the house. The lord of the house is
determined by the placement of a sign in a house.
In the following chart the third sign of the zodiac, Gemini, rises in the ascendant.
Therefore, Mercury is said to be the lord of the first house.
4
2
3
5
6
7
1
12
9
8
11
10
As the seventh sign, Libra, is placed in the fifth house, Venus is the lord of the fifth
house.
Even seeing planetary aspects is very easy in this form of a birth chart.
General significations of the houses:
IMPRISONMENT
EXPENSES
LOSSES
WEALTH
STATUS
INITIATIVES
COURAGE
NATURE
VITALITY
PERSONALITY
APPEARANCE
GAINS
INCOME
PROFESSION
CHARACTER
ACTION/KARMA
PROPERTY
VEHICLES
EMOTIONS
INTELLIGENCE
13
MARRIAGE
PARTNERS
PLEASURES
DEBTS
SICKNESS
ENEMIES
RELIGION
FORTUNE
DEATH
INHERITANCE
OBSTRUCTIONS
Areas of the body ruled by the various houses:

NECK, THROAT,
RIGHT EYE, TEETH
ESOPHAGUS
HANDS
SHOULDERS
RIGHT EAR
LEFT EYE
FEET
KNEES
JOINTS
BONES
HEART
CHEST
LUNGS
STOMACH
PANCREAS
DIGESTION
LIVER
LARGE
INTESTINE
KIDNEYS
LEFT
EAR,
SHANKS
(KNEE
TO
ANKLE)
HEAD
BRAIN
CRANIUM
PRIVATE
PARTS
UTERUS
LUMBAR
REGION
HIPS
THIGHS
SCROTUM
TESTICLES
14
Family relations ruled by the various houses:

FAMILY
SPOUSE
YOUNGER
SIBLINGS
SELF
MALE
CHILDREN
MOTHER
CHILDREN
ELDER
BROTHER
SPOUSE
FATHER
MATERNAL
UNCLE
SIGNIFICATIONS OF SIGNS
1. ARIES: It is a fiery sign and presided over by the significator of energy, Mars,
Sun, the significator of vitality, also is exalted in this sign. These factors render the
natives born in this sign as most active, strong, aggressive and healthy in case Mars
is strong and beneficially disposed. In case Mars is weak, the native suffers from
wounds, fevers, short-temperedness, diseases of impure blood, inflammatory
disorders, etc. This sign rules Head, Face Brain, Cranium and Facial bones.
It is violent, moveable, positive, barren and is four legged and has strong
preferences. Saturn, the planet of lethargy, becomes debilitated in this sign.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description of the native resembles
Mars and the Sun depending upon their strength and becomes modified due to other
influences on the ascendant or the lord of the ascendant. The position of Mars in the
fourth house or the twelfth house for Aries ascendant gives sickly constitution.
15
2. TAURUS: It is an earthy sign. It is ruled by Venus, the significator for

materialistic pursuits and comforts. This gives a healthy constitution. This rules,
neck, throat, Gullet, cerebellum, Bones of the neck.
Whenever Venus is strong the natives born under this sign enjoy good health.
Conversely, the native suffers from diseases mainly arising out of the weak venous
system.
It is mild, negative, fixed, semi-fruitful and four-legged sign and has precise,
temperate and sickly nature.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Venus
depending upon its strength and gets modified due to other influences on the
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant. For natives born under the Taurus
ascendant, the location of Venus in the first house gives poor digestion and location
in the eighth and 12th houses gives sickly constitution.
3. GEMINI: This is an airy sign presided over by Mercury, the planet governing the
nervous system, skin and respiratory canal. The sign rules shoulders, arms, hands,
lungs, breath, shoulder and collarbones, bones of arms and hands. In case Mercury
is weak and the sign is malefically aspected the persons born under this sign suffers
more at the mental level and the diseases linked with the parts mainly ruled by this
sign.
It is a talkative, positive, common, airy and barren sign and gives ambitious nature
with imaginative ideas.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Mercury
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant. The placement of and afflicted Mercury
in the tenth house causes headaches, congestion and respiratory diseases and
placement in Malefic houses causes weak constitution and nervous system, loss of
assets, depression resulting in partial paralysis, stammering, disputes connected
with property matters, movement to distant places, etc.
4. CANCER: This is watery sign, generally weak, presided over by the planet, Moon,
which is changeable in nature and tender. The sign rules breast, chest, epigastric
region, stomach and digestive organs, and bones of arms and hands. If the Moon is
weak and the sign, Cancer, is malefically aspected, the persons born under this sign
suffer from constant mental maladies, weak body constitution and diseases
connected with parts ruled by this sign.
16
The persons born under this sign suffer constantly from mental maladies, physical
ailments of breast, chest, hearth, epigastric region, stomach and digestive region
whenever the Moon is weak and/or afflicted.
The natives born under this sign are inconsistent in their behaviour as the Moon,
the lord of the sign Cancer, is of volatile nature and becomes weak quite often either
in pakshabala or by going to malefic houses from the ascendant or going to its sign of
debilitation.
It is a mute, negative, moveable, watery and fruitful sign and signifies grace and
cleverness. When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles
Moon depending upon its strength and gets modified due to other influences on the
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant. A weak, badly placed and afflicted Moon
gives sickly constitution and unpleasant appearance.
5. LEO: This is a fiery sign ruled by Significator planet of vitality, Sun. It rules
spine, back, heart, liver and pancreas. In case Sun is weak and sign, Leo, is
malefically afflicted, the natives born under this sign are vulnerable to the diseases
of hearth, spine, stomach, etc. and lack stamina and strong will power.
Its ruler, the Sun, rules intelligence, male progeny, social status and magnificence.
This sign is fiery in nature, fixed, positive, barren, benevolent and when rising in the
ascendant with a strong sun, makes the person noble, generous and gives majestic
appearance. The placement of the Sun in the third house indicates weak digestion
and asthmatic disposition while its placement in Malefic houses signifies lack of
vitality to the native.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Sun
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant.
6. VIRGO: This is an earthy sign ruled by Mercury, the governor of nervous system.
It rules abdominal umbilical region, bowel and intestines.
It is a negative, human, common, earthy and barren sign and gives the power of
analysis and discrimination, if Mercury is strong. For the natives born under the
ascending sign of Virgo with strong and well-placed Mercury, the person gets
attractive personality and is charming. If Mercury is debilitated, combust, placed in
malefic houses, the person has prominent veins, lacks witticism and has no charm.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Mercury
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant.
17
In case both the planet, Mercury, and the sign, Virgo, are weak, the native suffers
from the diseases of nervous breakdown, appendicitis, constipation, etc.
7. LIBRA: The sign Libra rising in the ascendant gives magnetic personality, if
Venus is strong. The body disposition is modified due to effects caused by
conjunction/aspect of other planets with Venus or the sign Libra. This is an airy sign
ruled by Venus. This sign rules lumber region, skin, kidneys, and bones of lumber
Region.
The planet Venus, if weak, and the ascendant is afflicted for natives born under the
sign Libra, the natives suffer by way of diseases connected with parts ruled by this
sign, diabetes, venereal diseases, arthritis, gout pains, etc.
It is a talkative, moveable, positive, airy and semi-fruitful sign and signifies sense of
justice, clarity, strong will power, and optimism and is highly sensitive. The Sun
gets debilitated in this sign while Saturn gets exalted in this sign. If the Sun which
rules soul is involved in this sign which rules luxuries and pleasures the spiritual
development of the person is obstructed and that is why the Sun gets debilitated in
this sign. If Saturn is placed in this sign it gets exalted because Saturn ruling
servants occupies the house of luxuries and pleasures.
8. SCORPIO: It is a watery sign and it is weak but it is strengthened by the
rulership of a strong and fiery Mars in a nativity. It rules urinary and sexual organs,
anus, generative organs and bladder, nasal organs, pelvic bones. If the planet Mars
is weak and the ascendant is afflicted the native suffers by diseases of piles, urinary
infections and boils, operations, etc., in the parts ruled by this sign.
It is a mute, violent, fixed, negative, watery and fruitful sign and signifies severe
sentiments.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Mars
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant. The person is of short stature, well built
and enjoys good health, if Mars is strong and well placed. Mars in weak state and
the ascendant and/or Mars afflicted by malefic planets gives dreadful appearance
and weak and unpleasant body constitution.
9. SAGITTARIUS: This again is a fiery sign ruled by Jupiter and blesses the native
with good health if strong in a nativity. This sign rules hips and thighs, arterial
system, nerves.
In case Jupiter is weak and the ascendant with Sagittarius rising is afflicted, the
native suffers because of anaemia, poor digestion, jaundice, high fevers, cold
diabetes, etc.
18
It is a positive sign, common, half human, fiery and semi-fruitful sign and signifies
impressive personality. The persons born under this sign are best suited for training
or advisory roles due to their pleasant nature and analytical bent of mind. When this
sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Jupiter depending upon
its strength and gets modified due to other influences on the ascendant and/or the
lord of the ascendant.
10. CAPRICORN: This is an earthy sign ruled by Saturn. This rules knees, bones
and joints, kneecaps and joints. If Saturn is weak and this sign is afflicted by the
functional malefic planets, the persons born under this sign suffer because of joint
pains, general weakness, emaciated body, etc.
It is a negative, moveable, non-human, earthy and semi-fruitful sign and signifies
tact, cheating, lethargy, melancholy nature, if its ruler, Saturn, is weak in the
nativity.
Capricorn rising gives good looks if Saturn is strong. The aspect of natural benefics
to Saturn and/or the ascendant provides charm to the personality. The negative
influences on weak Saturn gives an appearance of a person advances in age, sunken
eyes, wrinkled body, etc.
11. AQUARIUS: This is an airy sign, ruled again by Saturn, and rules legs, ankles,
blood and circulation, shim bone, etc. This is mooltrikona sign of Saturn.
If Saturn is weak and the sign Aquarius is afflicted, the persons born under this sign
suffer from fractures in legs, wounds, etc., in the parts ruled by this sign.
It is a talkative, positive, fixed, human and airy sign and signifies characteristics
like honesty, ideals and sensitiveness, etc., according to the strength of its lord.
The body description resembles Saturn, i.e. long stature, thin body and with
prominent veins if Saturn is well placed and strong. The description gets modified
due to other influences working both on Saturn and the ascendant.
12. PISCES: This is a watery sign ruled by Jupiter and rules feet and toes,
lymphatic system, bones of the feet and toe. Afflictions to Jupiter and the sign Pisces
cause sufferings to the natives born under this sign by diseases connected with the
parts ruled by this sign.
It is a mute, negative, common, non-human, watery and fruitful sign and signifies
enjoyments, sensitiveness, etc.
When this sign rises in the ascendant, the body description resembles Jupiter
ascendant and/or the lord of the ascendant. The person rises will in his profession
and is generous.
19
SIGNIFICATIONS OF HOUSES
First House: Represents the person, his nature and state of health, happiness,
status, body complexion, personality, prosperity, general disposition in life, desires
and their fulfilment and the body parts - head, face, brain, facial bones, pituitary
glands, cranium bones, etc. For example, afflictions to the first house cause paralysis,
giddiness, wounds, scars, erratic activity of endocrine glands, derangement, brain
fever, stupidity, nose-bleeding, etc. The strong, well placed and unafflicted Sun and
Mars, as significators, help as a protective cover.
Second House: Represents wealth, family, male child, continuance of married life,
possession of precious stones, status, fortune, speech, vision and the body parts neck, throat, right eye, gullet, larynx, cerebellum, bones of neck, trachea, cervical
region and cervical bones, tonsils, etc. Afflictions to this house result in problems to
eyes, thyroid glands, cervical, gums and teeth, speech, etc. A strong, well placed and
unafflicted Mercury, as a significator, helps as a protective cover.
Third House: Represents younger brothers or sisters, courage, short journeys,
writing and communicative capability and the body parts - shoulders, hands, right
year, respiratory canal, etc. Afflictions to this house result in problems of respiratory
canal, shoulder pains, fracture in the collar bone region, partial deafness, asthma,
tuberculosis, etc.
A strong, well placed and unafflicted Mercury, as a significator, helps as a protective
cover.
Fourth House: Represents mother, education, vehicles, domestic peace, properties,
mind, assets and the body parts - heart, chest and lungs. Afflictions to this house
result in coronary problems, lungs disorders, mental disorders, lunacy and the
problems connected to the circulatory systems. A strong, well placed and unafflicted
Moon, as a significator, helps as a protective cover.
Fifth House: Represents intelligence, speculative gains, progeny, learning, position,
inclinations, spiritual pursuits, etc., and the body parts - stomach, gall bladder,
pancreas, colon, diaphragm, spleen, liver, spinal cord, etc. Afflictions to this house
result in the diseases of diabetes, peptic ulcers, anaemia, colic pains, stones in gall
bladder, acidity, spinal cord, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, pleurisy, etc. A strong, well placed
and unafflicted Sun, as a significator, helps as a protective cover.
Sixth House: Represents disputes, debts, enemies, maternal uncles, employees,
diseases, losses through theft and fire, litigation, disputes and the body parts intestinal function, appendix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, lower abdomen, kidney, etc.
20
Afflictions to this house result in problems of appendicitis, generative organs,

constipation, hernia, blood urea and nervous breakdown.
In other words health, financial position and the position with reference to the
opponents is identified through this house. A strong, well placed and unafflicted
Mercury, as a significator, helps as a protective cover.
Seventh House: Represents wife, partnerships, conjugal life, home abroad, travel,
and the body parts -pelvic girdle, vagina, uterus, cervix, lumber region, etc.
Afflictions to this house result in venereal diseases, gout pains, urination, impotency,
sterilisation, renal problems, etc. A strong, well placed and unafflicted Venus, as a
significator, helps as a protective cover.
Eighth House: Represents longevity, inheritance, accidents, obstructions, losses,
misfortunes, disgrace, easy gains, disappointments and the body parts - rectum, hip,
testes, ovaries, etc. Afflictions to this house result in hydrocele, fissure, impotency,
piles, urinary infections, boils, etc. A strong, well placed and unafflicted Mars, as a
Ninth House: Represents father, preceptor, spiritual learning, inclinations, past
deeds, meditation, foreign travel, and education, general fortune, pilgrimages, etc.,
and the body parts - thighs, thigh bones, bone marrow, hip joints and the arterial
system. Afflictions to this house result in low productivity of blood, thallasemia,
leukaemia, high fevers, etc. A strong, well placed and unafflicted Jupiter, as a
Tenth House: Represents profession, status, karma in life, character, ambition, next
birth, happiness from male progeny and the body parts - knee joints and bones.
Afflictions to this house result in arthritis, broken knees, inflammation of joints,
general weakness and emaciated body. A strong, well placed and unafflicted Saturn,
as a significator, helps as a protective cover.
Eleventh House: Represents gains, friends, elder brothers, income, prosperity, etc.,
and the body parts - shanks, left ear left arm. Afflictions to this house result in
fracture of the lower portion of legs, pain in legs, problems of low productivity of
blood, circulatory problems and cancer of leg. A strong, well placed and unafflicted
Saturn, as a significator, helps as a protective cover.
Twelfth House: Represents expenses, losses, end of life, life in foreign lands,
obstructions in life, separation from family, imprisonment, pleasures of bed, etc., and
the body parts - left eye, lymphatic system, ankles and feet. Afflictions to this house
result in problems to the body parts governed by the house and weaken the
immunisation power. A strong, well placed and unafflicted Moon, as a significator,
helps as a protective cover.
21
The signification of the houses fructifies under the planetary periods connected with
them. The nature/extent of significations are dependent on three things, i.e. (1) the
strength of the lord of the house; (2) the strength of the significator of the house; and
(3) the effects on the house itself. The significations of the houses containing
mooltrikona signs suffer if their lords and significators are weak or they or their
lords are under the influence of the functional malefic planets.
Benefic houses
All houses, other than the malefic houses, are treated as benefic or auspicious houses
under the Systems Approach.
MOST EFFECTIVE POINT

There are 30 degrees in every sign.
The most effective point (MEP) of EVERY house is determined by the degree of the
rising sign.
For example, if the natal chart has a Sagittarius rising sign of 15:01 degrees, then
15:01 degrees become the MEP of every house in the chart.
Whenever planets aspect, conjunct, or transit within five degrees on either sides of
the MEP their influence is realized.
Planets within the five-degree orb of the MEP are considered strong, and their
influence and aspects are particularly effective.
Under the Systems Approach the extent of each house is 30 degrees. The results of
the planets are analysed on the basis of placement of the planets in a particular
house from the ascendant. Their longitudinal difference from the degree rising in
the ascendant does not make a difference.
The degree rising in the ascendant is considered as the most effective point of the
ascendant and similarly the same degree would be considered as the most effective
point of all the houses. Suppose 10 degree rises as the ascendant in Leo. The most
effective point of all the houses would be 10 degrees. The planets placed in a house
having longitude between 5 degree to 15 degree would be influencing the most
effective point of the concerned house.
The significance of houses fructifies under the planetary periods connected with
them. The nature or extent of significations is dependent on the strength of the lord
22
of the house, strength of the significator of the house and the effects on the house
itself. The significations of the houses suffer if their lords and significators are weak
or they or their lords are under the influence of functional malefic planets.
SIGNIFICATIONS OF PLANETS
THE SUN
The Sun is known as king in the planetary cabinet. It is the source of light to the
universe. It is also the source of life. It signifies father, which is the source for
bringing into existence and supporting a newborn in life. That is why the Sun
signifies father and vitality. If the Sun is strong in a nativity, the father and vitality
will help a native to grow in a healthy way.
The Sun signifies highly placed persons, administrators, physicians, contractors,
politicians, father, male child and social status. The Sun is significator planet for
vitality and life giver in a male nativity. He is bilious and has sturdy bones. It is hot,
dry, and constructive and represents health, blood, brain, digestive system, right eye
(male) and left eye in the case of females. In case it is weak and afflicted in a nativity
it gives weak eyesight and diseases of headaches, erratic circulation of blood, bone
fractures, fevers, high blood pressure, baldness, bone cancer and low immunisation
power. Its nature is benevolent and cruel. Its complexion is blood red.
As it rules digestive system, which provides nourishment to the whole body, it is
known as significator for vitality. It also represents soul. The soul of a person can
only be elevated if he keeps perfect health.
The Sun is personified as a king and doctor and when strong denotes high
administrative positions in government, including politics, doctors in medicine, etc.
THE MOON
The Moon is the queen of the planetary cabinet and signifies mother, mind and wife.
Next to the Sun, role of the Moon is very important as it signifies mother. The
mother brings up the child and is the first preceptor of the child. That is why, the
Moon signifies mind also.
If the position of the Moon is strong in a nativity, the mother will be having sufficient
resources and will bring up the child and develop mental faculties in a peaceful
manner. The Moon acts as a nourishing agent and as a soother. It gives a native
capability of looking after that is including the fields of training, public relations,
administration and soothing (physician). The Moon enjoys the status in
administration by virtue of being the wife of the king. It does not have to strive for
23
acquiring a status when strong in a nativity. It governs the professions of hoteliers,

public relations, bankers, housekeepers, physicians, healers, restauranteurs, etc.
Depending upon the brightness of the Moon, while a weak Moon gives a slim body, a
full Moon may give a corpulent body if it is connected with the ascendant or its lord
in a powerful way, in isolation. The Moon is volatile as it is changing its position
daily. It has auspicious looks and pleasant speech.
The Moon is a female planet, cold, moist, mild and is phlegmatic in nature. It
governs fluids in body, good quality of blood, breast, stomach, lymphatic system,
lungs and chest. It governs the left eye in the case of males and ovaries, menstrual
cycle, uterus, generative organs and right eye in the case of females. Weak and
afflicted Moon besides psychic problems causes diseases of the uterus, lungs,
menstrual disorders, the native is vulnerable to frequent cough and cold, fever,
general weakness, etc. Its complexion is tawny.
MARS
The next planet, Mars, signifies courage both mental and physical. Mars is
personified as a commander-in-chief, denotes position in military and para-military
forces, police, vocations employing fire and metals, engineering, chemicals, surgeons,
dentists and executive posts. The nature of Mars is cruel, unrelenting, active and
generous. It also governs gangsters, manufacturers, executioners and project
erectors.
Mars also signifies younger brothers, which adds to the strength of the native and
becomes a source of strength and courage. The weakness of Mars makes a man
lacking in courage and not enjoying the help and comforts from the younger
brothers. It gives short stature and a stout and well built body, red eyes and thin
waist. Its complexion is blood red. Its nature is cruel, unrelenting and active.
It is a dry and fiery planet and is billions in nature. It governs marrow, blood,
forehead, neck, muscular system, and external generative organs. When afflicting or
itself being weak and/or afflicted it causes, inflammations, wounds, burns, accidents,
fractures, piles, fevers, epilepsy, tumours, mental aberration, Cancer in the
muscular parts of the body when closely conjunct with Rahu, etc.
MERCURY
Basically rules analytical faculties, speech, sharp intellect, and power of
discrimination and confidence. The nature is friendly. Personified as a prince,
thinker and knowledgeable in the field of mathematics, denotes advisory roles,
business, engineering and related fields, research scholars, communicator, editors,
24
authors, accountants, lawyers, experts in analytical works, software engineers,

auditors, intellectuals, transporters, publishers, salesman, traders, etc.
He is mixture of three humours namely, phlegm, bile and wind. He rules skin, mind,
nervous system, lungs, tongue, hands, arms and mouth. When weak and/or afflicted
it causes psychic diseases, nervous breakdown, leucoderma, impotence, vertigo,
deafness, asthma and diseases of respiratory canal and intestines, insomnia, etc. Its
complexion is grass green.
Mercury is weak quite frequently. Whenever its period is in operation in any
nativity it creates tensions in life, lack of confidence, situation of indecisiveness, etc.,
which ultimately leads to faulty decisions. The effect is more if Mercury is weak in
the natal chart as well as in transit at the time of operation of its sub periods. It
makes a person a nervous wreck and can even cause paralysis when closely afflicted
by Rahu-Ketu axis, if the ascendant and its lord are also weak or the sign Virgo falls
in the ascendant.
Attractive features, well-proportioned body, large eyes, witticism are its
significations.
JUPITER
Jupiter is personified as a minister, preceptor, and judge and linked with treasury.
The nature of Jupiter is generous. It signifies the fields of top political and
administrative positions, teaching, law, financial institutions and advisory roles,
judges, bankers, teachers, astrologers, management experts, administrators if it is
found strong in a nativity. Its nature is generous.
Jupiter signifies elder brothers, spouse in female nativities, male progeny, wealth,
morals, sincerity, friends, divine grace, father and, in fact, all good things in life.
It is mild, temperate, and warm and is phlegmatic in nature. It rules liver, arterial
system, hearing power, absorptive power, hips, fats and blood. When weak and/or
afflicted it causes Jaundice, diabetes and other diseases of liver, anaemia, diseases of
pancreas glands and gall bladder, flatulence, etc.
Jupiter gives golden complexion, impressive and magnificent disposition, thin brown
hair, tawny eyes, large body when found strong in a nativity and rules the ascendant
or influences the lord of the ascendant. It bestows intelligence and knowledge of
scriptures in its periods.
VENUS
Venus signifies comforts, wife, worldly knowledge and pursuits, creativity, art and
rich tastes when strong.
25
Venus is personified as a minister, preceptor of demons, lover, knowledge of life

saving drugs and arts and signifies vocations in the field of financial administration,
cinema, theatres, paintings, music, designing, architecture, interior decorator,
entertainer, modelling, advertising, business connected with its significations, legal,
teaching, hotels, medicines, fashion and luxurious items. The nature of Venus is
generous and benevolent.
It is warn and moist. It is sensual, phlegmatic and windy in nature. It governs
private parts, kidneys, semen, face, neck, throat, chin, venous system, etc. When
weak and/or afflicted it causes venereal diseases, diabetes, stones in bladder, or
kidney, cataract, weakness of sexual organs and paralysis.
Venus gives a charming appearance, sharp and beautiful facial cuts, slim body,
beautiful and large eyes, and dark-bright and slightly thick curly hair. It rules
variegated colours.
SATURN
Saturn is personified as a statesman and leader of low castes and signifies jobs
requiring hard work with less remuneration, leadership of workers, trying to acquire
positions in government services, dealing with labour, labour oriented industry,
routine workers, labour oriented jobs, engineers, etc. The nature of Saturn is selfish
and indolent.
It is cold, dry, contracting, short-tempered, worn-out and windy in nature. It rules
joints, spleen, teeth, knees, phlegm and secretive system. When weak and/or
afflicted it causes constant and painful diseases, leg fracture, cancer, diseases of
glands, skin disease, paralysis, rheumatism, gout, consumption, flatulence, etc.
It has an emaciated body, long stature, brown and sunken eyes, windy, protruding
teeth, dark complexion, prominent veins, wrinkles, long hands and face, lazy and
melancholic nature, coarse and excessive hair.
RAHU
Rahu is personified as a diplomat and being a shadowy planet and a legendary
deceptor, when disposed beneficially, indicates diplomatic jobs, jobs requiring
manipulations with facts, deals in poisons and drugs. It signifies cheats, pleasure
seekers, insincere and immoral acts, salesman, operators in foreign lands, catalysts,
wine merchants, drug dealers, con men, poison dealers, etc.
It is phlegmatic in nature and gives malignant growth. When afflicting it causes
diseases of phlegm, intestines, boils, skin, ulcers, spleen, worms, high blood
pressure, etc. It gives smoky and unpleasant appearance due to habits of overeating
resulting in foul smell and unclean body and nails.
26
KETU
It is dry and fiery in nature. Its affliction causes wounds, inflammations, fevers,
intestinal diseases, mental aberration, low-blood pressure, deafness, defective
speech, etc. It gives emaciated body with prominent veins. It is personified as a saint
and takes a person towards mystic sciences and spiritual pursuits. It takes interest
in occultism, religion, diversification, and services for old and needy persons.
QUALITIES AND SEX OF PLANETS

The Sun, the Moon, Venus and Mercury have royal nature. Jupiter is of saintly
nature. Mars, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu are of cruel nature.
The Sun, Mars and Jupiter are male while the Moon, Venus and Rahu are female
planets. Mercury, Saturn and Ketu are eunuchs.
FUNCTIONAL NATURE OF PLANETS

The functional nature of the planets is the key analytical factor in the horoscopic
analysis.
Besides Rahu and Ketu the planets, whose mooltrikona signs are in the malefic
houses (sixth, eighth and twelfth) with reference to the ascendant, act as functional
malefic planets in a nativity.
For this purpose the sign Cancer is considered as mooltrikona sign of the Moon.
In exceptional cases, when Rahu is well placed in a mooltrikona sign of a planet,
without causing any conjunction or close aspect with other houses and planets and
the dispositor planet is strong, Rahu gives good results during its sub periods for
materialistic prosperity.
Rahu-Ketu, when exalted, gives materialist benefits while debilitated Rahu involves
the native in exposed scandals and acute physical sufferings.
Under the Systems Approach, the planets indicated against each ascendant, act as
functional malefic planets for the concerned ascendant:
ASCENDANT
FUNCTIONAL MALEFIC PLANETS
Aries
Mercury, Rahu and Ketu.
Taurus
Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Rahu and Ketu.
Gemini
Rahu and Ketu,
Cancer
Jupiter, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu.
Leo
Moon, Rahu and Ketu.
Virgo
Saturn, Mars, Sun, Rahu and Ketu.
Libra
Mercury, Rahu and Ketu.
Scorpio
Mars, Venus, Rahu and Ketu.
Sagittarius
Moon, Rahu and Ketu.
Capricorn
Sun, Jupiter, Rahu and Ketu.
Aquarius
Moon, Mercury, Rahu and Ketu.
Pisces
Sun, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu.
27
The functional malefic planets for various ascendants, mentioned above, may appear
to be at variance when seen in the context of the available classical texts and used by
the translators of the classical texts.
However, when you analyse the charts based on the functional malefic planets as
indicated by Systems' Approach, you will find that all of your confusions disappear at
one stroke.
PLANETARY PERIODS
The planets according to their strength in a horoscope give results of the
significations and houses ruled by them in their sub periods.
Based on the longitude of the Moon in the natal charts, the balance of operational
Vimshotri dasa is calculated. Thereafter, the planets have their main periods in a
seriatim. The following is the order and the major period of planets under the
Vimshotri dasa system.
Planet
Dasha Length
Sun
6 years
Moon
10 years
Mars
7 years
Rahu
18 years
Jupiter
16 years
Saturn
19 years
Mercury
17 years
28
Ketu
7 years
Venus
20 years
During the major period of a planet all other planets share periods proportionate to
their period in the Vimshotri dasa. This share of period is known as sub-period
(bhukti) and the first sub-period in a planets own main period is always its own
followed by other planets in the seriatim mentioned above.
FUNDAMENTALS FOR STUDYING A HOROSCOPE
The horoscopic influences are studied through the natal conjunctions, aspects and
placements.
The conjunctions and aspects help us in identifying the auspicious and inauspicious
planetary configurations.
The placement of a planet in a particular house links the significations of the house
containing mooltrikona sign of the said planet with the significations of the house of
its location.
A planet placed in a malefic house indicates suffering of the significations ruled by
the said planet in the nativity.
For identifying the afflicting close conjunctions or close aspects, first of all underline
the functional malefic planets. Then identify the close conjunctions/aspects and
encircle the planets under the close influence of the functional malefic planets.
The integrated analytical technique will focus on a stepwise approach:
Step I. After preparation of the horoscope, identify the
functional nature of the planets.
Step II. Find out the strength of planets and a
comprehension of the weak and strong areas of the
chart.
Step III. Find out the operative (current) sub period.
Also find out natal and transit strength of the sub
period lord. In this approach we will primarily consider
the sub period.
Step IV. Identify the house where mooltrikona sign of
the sub period lord is placed and the house occupied by
the sub period lord.
29
Step V. Identify the natal auspicious and inauspicious

close conjunctions/aspects. Also identify the natal
placements.
Step VI. Identify forthcoming (transit) auspicious and
inauspicious close conjunctions or close aspects.
The general assessment of the chart will indicate the significations of the
houses/planets, which will prominently surface in life depending upon the strength
of planets.
The specific trend results will be indicated at any particular time by the operating
sub periods lord depending upon its functional nature, natal and transit strength.
For analyzing any particular significations, strength of the house, the lord of the
house and the significator of the house are considered.
The impact of planets decrease or increase depending upon their weakness/affliction
or strength and good influences on them in a particular nativity as also due to their
placement in a particular house or in a particular sign.
The best thing to do, in the shortest possible time, is to indicate the strong and weak
areas in chart and to suggest appropriate remedies.
ANALYSING STRENGTH OF PLANETS
Those planets are considered weak, which are in their signs of debilitation, are
combust, are in the state of old age or infancy and placed in the malefic houses in the
rasi chart.
The Systems Approach also considers a planet weak if it is placed in the mooltrikona
sign of another weak planet and if a planet occupies its sign of debilitation in the
navamsa and other varga charts. In all other situations, the planets are considered
strong and well placed.
A weak planet is not capable to fully protect its general and particular significations.
The general significations means the aspects ruled by the planet. For example, the
Sun rules father, status of the native, heart, digestive system, etc., irrespective of the
lordship of the Sun in a particular nativity. The particular significations of the
planet mean the significations of the house where its mooltrikona sign is placed and
the house where this planet is placed in the natal chart.
The results of the significations of the weak planet fructify with delay and suffer
whenever the weak planet is afflicted due to close aspect or conjunction with the
30
functional malefic planet. The natal affliction causes damages in the entire sub
period of the weak planet and the afflicting planets while the transit influences
cause short-term damages for the duration of the effective transit influence.
THE APPLICATION OF ASTROLOGICAL REMEDIES

Effective sets of astral remedies developed after empirical studies for various
ascending signs are available for warding off the evils and generating good results in
life.
When used as a preventive measure, these save the natives from dreaded diseases if
strong combinations for such diseases are present in the natal chart.
In addition, the use of Kavach (protecting shield) as per directions, helps in
harnessing the good planetary influences to their full potential.
To help people come out of their problems the querents are advised appropriate
astrological remedial measures.
The problems in life are caused by weak planets and/or afflictions to them.
Therefore, two way application of astral remedies is administered after diagnosing
the problematic planetary influences in a chart.
Firstly, the strength is provided to the weak functionally benefic planets.
The strength can be provided by various methods, e.g. gemstones, colour therapy,
KAVACH (the protective shield containing mystical numbers of the planets) in an
auspicious time.
Secondly, the malevolence of the functionally malefic planets is reduced by offering
propitiatory charities concerning these planets.
The two-way application helps in reducing the impact of malefic planetary influences
to a large extent.
The preventive use of astral remedies is much more useful than the curative astral
remedies.
Generally, people resort to astral remedies in the end after trying all other therapies
ignoring the distinct advantage of preventive diagnostic power of the astrological
science.
Needless to stress the benefit of preventive medicine/redressal measures as against
those of the curative measures.
For both - curative and preventive remedies - the judicious mixture of the following
astral remedies is applied.
31
KAVACH: This is a protective shield containing mystical numbers of the functionally

benefic planets in a nativity and is a strengthening measure. The weak and afflicted
planets are enabled to protect and promote their significations. The Kavach is worn
in a specially elected auspicious time for generating the desired impact. This is used
both for preventive and curative purpose.
CHARITIES: These are offered for the planets causing afflictions/problems in a
horoscope.
MANTRAS: As part of the meditation, the recitation of Mantras is prescribed for
propitiating the trouble causing planets as per the Vedic rituals.
PROPITIATORY MEASURES
The malefic influences are effectively reduced with the help of propitiatory measures
for the afflicting planets.
The highest charitable deeds are rendering service to one's parents, the elderly, the
poor and the needy, the afflicted, and being considerate to one's spouse.
The malefic influences are effectively reduced with the help of propitiatory measures
for the afflicting planets.
Sun
Serving ones father or helping old age

needy persons.
Moon
Serving ones mother or old age women.
Mars
Morning prayers for ten minutes and being

considerate to ones servant.
Mercury
Helping poor and needy children.
Jupiter
Offering service to ones preceptor/teacher.
Venus
Helping ladies in distress.
Saturn
Helping the poor.
Rahu
Helping old-age needy persons or lepers.
Ketu
Serving/helping institutions/persons
working for spiritualism.
These remedies are to be performed daily in the morning after bath and before
breakfast.
32
PRESCRIBING KAVACHS
Kavachs get power to do good when the engravings are done in an auspicious time as
also due to a prescribed way of life.
The person prescribing use of the KAVACH should follow the following:
Bath in the morning without any bed tea, etc.
Prayers to Lord.
Performance of propitiatory remedies as per ones own chart.
Practise the divine way in life: 1. Be content. 2. Increase utility to humanity. 3. Help
the poor and needy. 4. Be kind, generous and benevolent. 5. Avoid deeper
involvement in sensual pleasures, anger, pride, greed and envy.
Continuous practice of these principles helps in generating power for helping others
to ward off evils in life and to derive benefits indicated by the benefic planets in ones
chart.
33
SYSTEMS' APPROACH SUMMARY

Planets, houses, signs and planetary periods rule events and indications in life.
During their operating periods, the planets bless the native with the significations
ruled by them relative to their strength and placement in the horoscope.
The Systems' Approach improves the accuracy of analysis, accelerates the analytical
process, and helps in identifying the results of analysis in an unambiguous manner,
consistently without confusion. The main points are:
1. Identify the Most Effective Point of every house. The most effective point is
based on the rising sign degree. For example, if the natal chart rising sign is 10
degrees, then the most effective point of every house is 10 degrees.
2. Note the five-degree orb. Whenever a planet is within five degrees on either side
of the most effective point of any house, whether by aspect or conjunction, in
either the natal chart or by transit, its results are shown whether positive or
negative.
3. Determine the functional nature of planets. That is, determine the functional
malefic (FM) and functional benefic (FB) planets in a chart. Rahu and Ketu are
functional malefics for all charts. The other FMs are those planets whose
Mooltrikona (MT) sign falls in the dusthana (inauspicious) houses, that is the 6 th,
8th, and 12th houses from the ascendant.
34
If a planet is not a functional malefic, then it is a functional benefic. There are no

neutral planets in this system.
Natal chart and transit interpretations are always done with reference to the
ascendant only. Interpretations are not done using any other sign, house, or lord
independent of the rising sign.
ANALYZING THE STRENGTH OF PLANETS
Planets are considered weak if they are:
1. In their signs of debilitation
2. Are combust
3. Are in the state of infancy (first five degrees of a sign)
4. Are in the state of old age (last five degrees of a sign)
5. Placed in malefic houses (6th, 8th, or 12th) in natal chart or by transit
A weak planet does not have the ability to fully protect either its general or
particular significations.
The general significations refer to the subjects ruled by the planet. The Sun, for
example, rules father, status of the native, heart, digestive system, etc., irrespective
of the house lordship of the Sun in a natal chart.
The particular significations refer to the significations of the house where the
planet's mooltrikona sign is placed, and of the house where the planet is placed in
the natal chart.
Whenever a weak planet is afflicted by close aspect or conjunction with a functional
malefic planet, the results of its signification manifest with delay, or altogether
suffers.
Afflictions in the natal chart cause damage during the entire sub period of the weak
planet or of the afflicting planets. Afflictions to the weak planet during the transit
influences cause only short term damage, and last only for the duration of the
operating transit influence.
AFFLICTIONS
The close (within five degrees) conjunction or aspect of the functional malefic planets
in a natal chart causes the afflictions to the planets and houses.
35
MEASURING STRENGTH OF THE HOUSES

The strength of the houses and the signs is gauged through the strength of their
lords and the conjunctions and aspects to the most effective point (MEP) of the
houses.
MEASURING THE STRENGTH OF THE PLANETS
Infancy/Old Age
The results of planets vary in degree of strength as per their longitudes. That is,
when planets are in their infant state their power is 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%
when they are 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 degrees, respectively. When planets are in their old
age state their power is 80%, 60%, 40%, 20%, and zero when their longitude is 26, 27,
28, 29, and 30 degrees, respectively.
Exalted Planets
Whenever planets are placed in their signs of exaltation they are considered to have
additional strength. However, whether or not they are placed on the exact point of
exaltation has very little relevance.
Combust Planets
When the Sun is a functional benefic planet, its conjunction with other well-placed
functional benefic planets is considered good. It gives exponential growth relative to
the significations of the planet in close conjunction with the Sun. However, the
combust planets will suffer when they are under the transit malefic influences.
On the other hand, when the Sun is a functional malefic and is closely conjunct with
other planets, then all the planets involved suffer. This is because the planets
become afflicted by the conjunction of the functional malefic Sun permanently -- due
to their natal chart positions.
The combust planets in such cases also suffer in transit afflictions.
IDENTIFYING RESULTS OF MAIN/SUB PERIOD LORDS

Events take place during the periods of operating planets. Therefore it is very
important to understand the method of analyzing the main period (dasa) and sub
period (bhukti) results. The following chart is useful in analyzing results.
RESULTS OF SUB PERIOD LORDS
36
Main Period Lord
Sub Period Lord
Results
Functional Malefic
Functional Malefic
Will cause suffering.
Functional Malefic
Functional Benefic
(If well placed and strong)
Will bestow good results
Functional Malefic
Functional Benefic
(If weak or afflicted)
Will create only hope (that

does not get fulfilled)
Functional Benefic
Functional Benefic
(If well placed and strong)
Will bestow very good

results
Functional Benefic
Functional Benefic
(If badly placed and weak)
Will bestow average

results with misfortune
during unfavorable transit
influences
Functional Benefic
Functional Malefic
Will cause mild sufferings
Functional Benefic
Functional Malefic
(If involved in close conjunction
or aspects with other weak
planets)
Will cause grave

concerns/tragic
happenings
RESULTS OF SIGNIFICATIONS
The results of the general significations of the sub period lord depend upon its
functional nature, strength, placement, conjunction and aspects to the same.
The significations of the house of placement are touched when transit planets create
benefic or malefic influences on the sub period lord.
During the sub period of a planet, the following significations are operating:
1. The general significations of the planet. For example, the Sun rules father, social
status, position with the government, male child, digestive system, heart, blood
pressure, etc.
2. The particular significations of the house where the mooltrikona sign of the
operating planet is placed. For example, if a malefic planet is conjunct or
aspecting the most effective point of a house, the significations of the mooltrikona
sign and house will not prosper. They will be subject to the problems indicated
by the lordship of the afflicting planet.
37
3. The significations of the house where the planet is placed.

ANALYZING RESULTS OF NON-MOOLTRIKONA SIGNS
Until and unless there is a close malefic influence on the most effective point of a
house containing a non-mooltrikona sign, the significations of that house will not
bother a person. Generally people will not seek astrological consultations or
remedies relevant to the significations of those houses.
CAPABILITY OF PLANETS TO BLESS WITH THEIR SIGNIFICATIONS
Study both positions, that is, the natal chart and transit position of the planet. The
planet will be able to bless the native with both its general and particular
significations, if it is strong both in the natal chart, and in transit.
Under the Systems' Approach the analysis is always done with reference to the
placement of planets, their strength and weaknesses and their mutual relationship
with reference to the ascendant.
USE OF DIVISIONAL CHARTS
The divisional charts are used for judging the true strength of a planet while
studying its impact in a particular field.
Any planet occupying its sign of debilitation in a particular divisional chart will fail
to protect its significations in its sub periods.
TRANSIT INFLUENCE
Transits refer to the planetary positions at any given time after the date of birth.
Transiting planets are studied with reference to the natal chart ascendant, and in
relation to the original position of the planets in the natal chart.
Take, for example, a natal chart with a Sagittarius ascendant. In this chart, the
sign of Libra is placed in the 11th house. Now, suppose the 11th house lord, Venus, is
placed in the 12th house of loss. Then, during the sub period of Venus, there could be
loss relating to 11th house significations -- such as elder brother or income, or there
could be trouble to friends.
Even the death of the elder brother could be caused -- if by transit the functional
malefics Rahu and Ketu form a close conjunction or aspect to any of the following: 1.
The most effective point of the 11th house. 2. The natal position of Venus. 3. The
transit position of the sub period lord, Venus.
38
In essence, the sub period planet sets the trend as per its lordship, house placement,
and other influences on it in the natal chart. Then, the transit planets cause
influence whenever they come into contact with the sub period planets' natal or
transit position.
IDENTIFYING TRANSIT INFLUENCES
The result of a particular house will be influenced by a transiting planet when it is
near to its most effective point depending upon its functional nature whether benefic
or malefic.
The impact of transit functional malefics is on both functional malefics and benefics.
The subjects governed by the planets are their general and particular significations.
The significations of a functional benefic planet are harmed when it transits the
natal position or close aspect of a functional malefic planet.
INTERACTION BETWEEN THE SUB PERIOD AND TRANSIT RESULTS
Three areas of significations are operating during the course of a sub period planet.
These include:
1. The house it rules.
2. Its own general significations.
3. The house where it is placed.
READING TRANSIT INFLUENCES
Significant events are triggered by the transit of planets over the natal planetary
positions:
Whenever a functional malefic planet transits a weak natal position, it triggers an
undesirable incident concerning the planet and the house involved. This is more so
when the weak natal planet is weak in transit, too.
Whenever the functional benefic planets transit auspicious natal positions, they
trigger happy incidents. The natal positions mean the longitudes of the planets at
birth and the rising degree of the ascendant. (The rising degree is treated as the
39
most effective point of every house.) Any house, whose lord is weak, is treated as a
weak position.
The afflicted planets/houses are those planets/houses with whom the functional
malefic planets form exact conjunctions/aspects or close conjunctions/aspects. The
close conjunctions are treated where longitudinal difference is around five degrees or
less between the two planets.
Whenever planets in transit form conjunctions amongst themselves, the happenings
occur depending upon their functional nature in connection with the house with
reference to a particular ascendant. The transit effects are to be seen with reference
to the natal ascendant, and not with reference to the natal Moon sign.
The sub period lord sets the trends. However, transit effects as mentioned above can
supersede the trend results of the sub period lord and create significant events.
The malefic effects of slow moving planets when functional malefics i.e. Jupiter,
Saturn, Rahu and Ketu are more pronounced when during the course of their close
conjunctions/aspects, they become stationary, or move more slowly as compared to
their normal speed.
During the main periods of the functional benefic planets, benefic transit effects are
more pronounced, while malefic transit effects are mild. Similarly, during the main
periods of functional malefics, the benefic transit effects are mild while the malefic
transit effects are more severe.
Whenever, the transit planets - both the functional benefic planets and the
functional malefic planets - transit over the natal functional malefic planets, the
significations ruled by the transiting planets suffer badly.
The various planets rule the following type of significations:
1. The general significations of the planets. For example, the Sun rules father,
heart, relations with the government; and Jupiter rules the progenic matters, son,
higher studies, liver, etc. 2. The significations of the house where the mooltrikona
sign of the concerned planet is placed. 3. The significations of the house in which
the concerned planet is located.
40
Whenever, a transiting functional malefic planet transits the most effective point, it
affects both the houses in which it is located and the houses which it aspects.
HOW TO ANALYZE A CHART
To start the analysis of a chart:
1. Note the Ascendant degree, which becomes the Most Effective Point of every
house.
2. Underline the functional malefic planets.
3. Identify the conjunctions and aspects within a five-degree orb from each other.
4. Put a circle around the planets and house that are afflicted due to the close
influence of the functional malefic planets.
5. Note the weak, badly placed, and afflicted planets, and/or the sub period of the
functional malefic planets (for trend results).
Problems are always with regard to the weak, badly placed and afflicted planets and/
or the sub periods of the functional malefics.
Short-term problems are indicated by the malefic transit over the weak natal
planets.
Good results are identified for the significations of the well placed strong planets
having good and close conjunctions/aspects.
A functional benefic planet becomes weak if placed in any of the dusthana houses
(6th, 8th, or 12th). However, if it is in the eighth house, near the most effective point,
then despite weakness it is good, as it aspects the most effective point of the second
house.
The systems' approach always considers the strength or weakness of the planet that
is placed in the mooltrikona sign of another planet.
"ESSENTIALS OF A HOROSCOPE READING"
1. Identify the functional benefic planets and the functional malefic planets.
2. Identify and explain the strength of the planets.
41
3. Check the strength of strong planets in the birth chart in the concerned divisional
charts.
4. Identify the close and exact afflictions.
5. Indicate that the weak planets/houses make one vulnerable to delays and setbacks
for the significations of the concerned planet and/or house.
6. Indicate stressful results for the severely afflicted planets.
7. Study and explain the combined effect of main and sub periods and the Triple
Transit influences for the next six months to one year, or for the requested time.
8. Suggest astral remedies for strengthening of the weak functional benefic planets.
9. Suggest propitiatory remedies for the functional malefic planets.
10. Indicate unfavorable colors and unfavorable stones so that the person avoids
these in dress and furnishings in the home and in the car.
11. Indicate unfavorable stones so that the person avoids these in jewels.
12. Answer specific questions, if any.
42
SAFE AND FAVORABLE GEMSTONES FOR EACH RISING SIGN

Rising Sign
Sun
Moon
Mars
Aries:
Ruby
Pearl
Red Coral
Taurus:
Ruby
Pearl
Gemini:
Ruby
Pearl
Red Coral
Emerald
Cancer:
Ruby
Pearl
Red Coral
Emerald
Leo:
Ruby
Red Coral
Emerald
Yellow
Sapphire
Diamond
Emerald
Yellow
Sapphire
Diamond
Yellow
Sapphire
Diamond
Virgo:
Ruby
Pearl
Scorpio:
Ruby
Pearl
Sagittarius:
Ruby
Capricorn:
Pearl
Jupiter
Venus
Saturn
Yellow
Sapphire
Diamond
Blue Sapphire
Emerald
Pearl
Libra:
Mercury
Red Coral
Blue Sapphire
Yellow
Sapphire
Yellow
Sapphire
Red Coral
Emerald
Yellow
Sapphire
Red Coral
Emerald
Ruby
Red Coral
Pisces:
Pearl
Red Coral
Yellow
Sapphire
Emerald
Blue Sapphire
Diamond
Emerald
Aquarius:
Diamond
Yellow
Sapphire
Blue Sapphire
Blue Sapphire
Blue Sapphire
Diamond
Blue Sapphire
Diamond
Blue Sapphire
Diamond
Blue Sapphire
43
Order of Significations
By Professor V.K. Choudhry
Under each topic, proceed through the list until you find the house that has a mooltrikona sign. If
none of the houses listed have a mooltrikona sign for the ascendant in question, use the first
planet listed as the primary significator. It is that house ruler or planet that you come up with that
will have primary importance with regard to the signification. Once you have the primary
significator, other planets listed become general significators.
Abortions: Fifth and second houses and the planets Jupiter and the Sun.
Accidents: Sixth house and the planet Mars.
Affection: 5th House and the Moon.
Basic Education: 4th House, Moon and Mercury.
Allergy: Close influence of Rahu/Ketu and Rahu like planets on weak planets/houses.
Assets: 4th House, 2nd House, Mars and Venus.
Asthama: 3H, 4H, Mercury & Moon.
Black Magic: The close influence of Rahu or Ketu on the 5th House, the Sun and the Moon.
Children: 5th House, 2nd House, Jupiter and Sun.
Comforts: 12th House, 4th House, 7th House, 2nd House, Sun, Venus and Moon.
Competitions: Lord of the fifth house. Lord of the third house or the lord of the second house if
there is no MT sign in the fifth house.
Coronary problems: Close influence of Rahu, Ketu or most malefic planet on 4H, Sun and the
Moon.
Courage: 3rd, Sun, Mars.
Creative Intelligence: 5th House, 2nd House, Jupiter and Sun.
Debts: Sixth house and Moon.
Depressions: 4th house, Moon, Mercury and the Sun.
Easy Gains: 8th House, Jupiter and Sun.
Education (Basic): 4th House, Moon and Mercury.
Education (Higher): 5th House, 2nd House, 9th House, Sun, Mercury and Jupiter.
Education (Spiritual): 9th House, and strength of Sun and Jupiter.
Elder Brothers: 11th House and Jupiter.
Employment: 10th House, 2nd House and Sun.
Evictions: 4th house and the planets the Moon and the Sun.
Family: 2nd House, 7th House, 4th House, Venus and Moon. Family disputes: Second house and
the Moon.
Fanaticism: Impact of Rahu over the sixth house or that of sixth house and/or nodes on the third,
first and tenth houses.
44
Father: 9th House, 4th House, Sun and Jupiter.

Fatal Accidents/very serious accidents: Eighth house and exact affliction of MMP or Ketu.
Financial Solvency: 6th House, 2nd House, Moon and Venus.
Foreign Residence: 7th House, 12th House or influence of 7th lord or 12th lord or 9th lord on 4th
House or 10th House, Rahu and Venus.
Foreign Visits: 9th House, 10th House or influence of 9th lord or 12th lord or 7th lord on 4th
House or 3rd House.
General Fortune/Luck: 9th House, 4th House, 2nd House, Sun and Jupiter.
Happy Married Life: 7th House, 4th House, 2nd House, 8th House, 12th House, Moon and Venus.
Health (Emotional): 1st House, 5th House, 6th House, Moon and Mercury.
Health (Functional): 1st House, 6th House, Moon and Mercury.
Health (General): 1st House, 6th House, Sun, Mars and Moon.
Health (Physical): 1st House, 6th House, Sun and Mars.
Heart Disease: 1st House, 6th House, 4th House, Sun and Moon, Mars, Jupiter.
Husband: 7th House, 2nd House, 4th House, 8th House, 12th House, Jupiter and Sun.
Imprisonment: Twelfth house & sixth house.
Inclinations: 5th House, 4th House, 2nd House, Jupiter and Sun.
Income and Gains: 11th House, 2nd House, 10th House, 3rd House, Jupiter, Venus and Moon.
Inheritance: 8th House, 9th House, 4th House, Sun and Moon.
Initiatives: 3rd House and Mars.
Intuition: 5th House and the Sun.
Kidney: Sixth house and Venus.
Lawsuits: Sixth house and the planets the Sun and Mars.
Litigation: 6th House and planets placed in 6th House.
Longevity: 1st House, 8th House, 12th House and Saturn.
Loss of parents: 4th and 9th houses and the planets the Sun and the Moon.
Love: Significator is Venus.
Luxuries: 4th House, Venus, 12th House and 7th House.
Malignant Tumors: Exact or very close influence of Rahu or most malefic planet on weak
planets/houses.
Marital Discord: Influence of lord of the 6th House/Ketu on the weak prime
determinants/significators of marriage or the placement of the prime determinants/significators of
marriage in the 6th House.
The prime determinants of marriage: The prime determinants of marriage for each of the 12 signs
in seriatim are Venus, the Sun, Jupiter, the Sun, Saturn, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, the Moon, the
Moon, the Sun, and Mercury. Jupiter is significator for husband and Venus is significator for wife
and general significator of marriage. These are the significators of marriage.
Marriage - Timing: 7th, 2nd and 4th houses or the planets influencing these houses.
Marital Tie: 8th House, 2nd House and 12th House.
45
Mental Capabilities: 1st House, 3rd House, 4th House, 5th House, Moon, Sun and Mercury.
Mother: 4th House, Moon and 9th House.
Musical Talent: 2nd and 3rd house, Venus and Mercury.
Nervous Control: 6th House and Mercury.
Possesion by spirits: The close influence of Rahu or Ketu on the 5th House, Sun, Moon &
Mercury.
Pre-marital Pleasures: Close influence of Rahu or 8th/12th lords on the 1st House, 3rd House, 5th
House or 7th House or the planet Venus.
Poverty: Second, fourth and sixth houses and the planets the sun and Saturn.
Professional Education: 2nd House, 5th House and 10th House.
Professional Determinant: Lords of 10th and 2nd houses and if there is no MT sign in these
houses, then Lord of the Ascendant.
Professional Position: 10th House, 2nd House, 5th House, 3rd House, Sun, Mercury, Venus and
Jupiter.
Progeny: 5th House, 2nd House, Jupiter and Sun.
Prolonged sicknesses: Sixth house & the planets Mars and Mercury.
Prosperity: 11th House, 2nd House, 10th House, 3rd House, Jupiter, Venus and Moon.
Respiratory disorders: 3H, Mercury & Moon.
Renal disorders: 6H, 7H Venus.
Romance: Mars and Rahu.
Purvapunya: 9th house, fourth house, Jupiter and the Sun. Short Journeys: 3rd House and 9th
House.
Speculation: 5th House, Rahu and Mercury.
Speculative Trading Markets: Rahu
Spiritual Education: 9th House, Sun and Jupiter.
Spiritual Life: 9th House, 4th House, Sun and Jupiter.
Sport: 3rd House, Lord of the Ascendant, 9th House, Mars, Sun and Venus.
Status: 2nd House, 5th House, 10th House, Sun and Jupiter.
Status with Government: 2nd House, 10th House, Sun and Mars.
Strong mind and will power: 3rd and tenth houses and the planet, the Sun. Where both the 3rd
and 10th houses do not contain an MT sign, the 2nd house will be considered.
Success: 3rd House, Sun and Jupiter.
Tuberculosis: 4H, Moon and Mercury.
Vehicles: 4th House and Venus.
Wealth: 2nd House. To find the the prime indicator: if there is no MT sign in the 2nd house, then
one goes to the 4th house, the 9th house and then the 1st house whichever house has the MT sign
first.
Wealth giver houses/planets: 11th House, 5th House, Moon and Jupiter.
Wealth Accumulated: Venus is the significator planet.
Widowhood: Seventh, fourth, second and 12th houses and the impact of MMP/Ketu on these
houses.
Wife: 7th House, 2nd House, 4th House, 8th House, 12th House, Venus and Moon.
Younger Brothers: 3rd House and Mars.
46
STEPS FOR MOVING FORWARD ON THE SPIRITUAL PATH/SPIRITUAL PRACTICE

Trust in God.
Patience.
Help the needy - wherever possible.
Keep company of good people.
Study spiritual literature.
Practice contentment.
Enjoy blessings of God.
Strengthen spiritual planets.
Follow Divine Conduct.
PUNYA (Benevolence)
Doing good to others/needy is Punya (Good deed) and it takes one close to the God.
DIVINE CONDUCT
The divine conduct includes
(i) practice of kindness, generosity, benevolence;
(ii) being free from greed, excitement, attraction or aversion, envy, fraud, hypocrisy and deceit;
and
(iii) to avoid deeper involvement in materialistic pursuits, sensual pleasures (lust), anger,
arrogance and pride as they take one to the path of challenging experiences in this life.
Seeking blessings of saints, especially in person wherever possible, help the person in mitigating
the sins. The divine conduct or spiritual practice brings contentment and peace. It helps the
person in being free from attachments. The contentment, in turn, helps the person in winning over
greed, lust and anger.
MISSION OF LIFE
The passions constitute the army of ignorance. For attaining mental peace, light, spiritual
advancement & universal brotherhood we can follow the path shown to us by Gita / Ramacharita
Manas as a crux of Vedic teachings.
To attain the purpose of human birth, we have to master and control the six passions; namely lust,
anger, greed, infatuation, pride and jealousy. Feeling content with the blessings of Param Brahm
47
(God) with mastering of passions, we can enjoy sinless, pure, truthful, inspired, guileless &
learned life free from delusion on the path of dharma (righteousness).
The above helps the human beings in becoming abode of virtues, above the sorrows of the world
and free from doubt. One lives the life of righteousness, austerity, self denial and religious
observance. It helps you in maintaining good relations, bestowing honour on others, moderate
diet for good health, unity with Param Brahm (God) and makes you free from pride.
Those following the above become like saints. Such people are devoted to the feet of their Guru,
Param Brahm (God) and the learned people. They are full of piety, forgiving friendly to all,
compassionate, cheerful under all circumstances and are sincerely devoted to the almighty. Once
enlightened they never take recourse to hypocrisy, pride or arrogance nor set their feet on the evil
path even by mistake. They are immersed in divine hymns and are intent on doing good to others
without any consideration.
The attributes to saints are numerous and cannot be exhausted even by Ma Sarada, the goddess of
speech. The continuous singing or hearing of hymns brings us to steadfast devotion to lord and
finally brings us in unity with Param Brahm (God) - moksha.
MISSION OF LIFE & ASTROLOGY
At some point of time in life everybody is faced with the question as to what is the mission of
ones life. A poor man may think that he is only living for toiling and facing hardship in life while
a rich man may think that he is only living for enjoyments in life. Though all human beings are
born with different fortunes, depending upon their past karma (deeds), their journey in life is
towards moksha or nirvana or liberation from earthly bondage. There are impediments in life in
the form of diseases, accidents, lack of financial resources, emotional setbacks, deeper
involvement in sensual pleasures, anger, greed, attachment, etc.
How to reach ones ultimate goal of attaining moksha or how to realize the mission of life is the
most important question faced by both haves and have-nots, that is the rich and the poor. One has
to fight ones way through the impediments. The sure way to realize the mission passes through
divine conduct as described by Ramayana. The contentment in life with ones lot and increasing
ones utility to the humanity is the real short cut. The divine conduct includes practice of
kindness, generosity, benevolence; being free from greed, excitement, attraction or aversion,
envy, fraud, hypocrisy and deceit; and to avoid deeper involvement in sensual pleasures, anger,
arrogance and pride. Seeking blessings of saints, especially in person wherever possible, help the
person in mitigating the sins. The knowledge helps the person in being free from attachments.
The contentment helps the person in winning over greed, lust and anger.
The planets, the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn rule the divine
qualities and impediments depending upon their lordship in their charts. Rahu and Ketu rule the
impediments. The positive role of a strong Sun in the birth chart of an individual is evolution of
soul through sound health, good fortune and strong will power. The weak and/or afflicted Sun
impedes the evolution of soul through greed, lack of will power, envy and pride. The positive role
of a strong Moon in realization of ones mission through easy availability of necessities of life,
fully developed mind with clarity and contentment with ones lot is very important. One can then
continue ones mission oriented journey in life. The weak and/or afflicted Moon robs one of the
proper care by the mother, causes retarded/slow mental growth, disturbed marital relationship and
peace of mind. While a strong Mars gives tremendous initiative to the person to pursue ones
48
pursuits in life a weak and/or afflicted Mars confronts one with impediments through anger and
involvement in excessive sensual pleasures.
Strong Mercury gives the power of understanding and communication while weak and/or
afflicted Mercury confuses a person and impedes the mission oriented journey. The impediments
are caused by pride. A strong Jupiter makes a person kind, charitable, benevolent and contended
while a weak and/or afflicted Jupiter makes one selfish and cruel. A strong Venus provides
material comforts while a weak and/or afflicted Venus impedes the mission oriented journey
through material pursuits in life. A strong Saturn blesses the person with a long, secured and
healthy life while a weak and/or afflicted Saturn makes one suspicious in nature and the person
feels insecure. Rahu rules materialistic pursuits. If it is well placed in the chart and is not forming
close conjunction with any of other planets/houses, then its power to cause impediments is
reduced. Its close connection with any other planet or house tampers with the positive role of the
said planet or house. The extent of damage to the afflicted planet or house is more if the said
planet is weak. Ketu signifies miseries and obstructions. Its close relationship with weak and/or
afflicted planets is always indicative of serious problems in life impelling one to seek divine
solace through spirituality. The close impact of Ketu shows the helplessness of the man to fight
the impediments with ones material resources. The persons continuing their journey through
divine conduct are always in the service of God and they need not affiliate to any particular
religion or place of worship for meditation.
The divine will in store for a person is foreknown in astrology through the position of planets
noted for the time of birth of the particular person. The strength, placement, inter-relationship of
planets, the operational periods of planets and the continuous impact of current position of planets
on the natal position of planets guides us to the course of life including the spiritual evolution and
attainments of the mission of life.
In the background of the above, we all see in our day-to-day lives affluent persons exerting
themselves to achieve their greedy plans unsuccessfully and digressing from the true mission
oriented journey of their lives while the blessed ones are never tempted by greed, pride, lust,
arrogance and excitement. The saintly personalities keep on coming and going for showing the
true path to the human beings. The crux of their teachings is capable of saving the mankind of
numerous problems created by ones own lust, anger, arrogance and greed.
PEARLS OF WISDOM
God lives in the hearts of those who have no lust, anger, arrogance and pride and those who are
without greed, excitement, aversion or attraction and are free from fraud, hypocrisy and deceit.
God lives in the hearts of those who always think God as their master, companion, father, mother,
preceptor and everything.
For peace and enjoying the bliss, we can follow the Pearls of Wisdom.
1. Patience is very important in life and at all times.
2. If there is a mistake or misunderstanding one should not hesitate to accept.
3. There is always some scope of learning.
4. Wise people ignore the acts of foolish persons.
49
5. Anger, greed, encroaching tendencies, pride and lust make a person blind.
6. For literary/intellectual understanding/creativity one requires:

Intelligence
Imagination
Exploratory mind
Concentration
Patience
Confidence
Objectivity
7. Understanding, adjustment, sense of unity and tolerance are important for continuity of
relationship.
Some more pearls from Ramayana, the epic.
1. While describing the character of saints (holy persons) and those who are unholy, Saint
Tulsidas, the writer of Ramayana, says that the holy persons give happiness to others while the
unholy persons live for making others unhappy. So, those learning and practicing astrology
should follow the conduct of holy persons.
2. Ramayana says that without going into the merits of advice or sayings, one should follow the
advice of one's parents, guru (teacher) and god, as this always bless the person with happiness
and peace.
3. Those who do not respect or heed to their parents and God and those who seek service from
holy persons are just demons. Such persons always cause sufferings to others and perish after
experiencing sufferings in life.
4. While patience and self-control are necessary for being successful and peaceful in life
generosity remains a virtue, above all.
In Ramayana, lord Rama says, "Only those who are simple find me. I do not like those who are
involved in manipulations and cheating."
The mighty and invincible foe of the man is attachment to the world. While the planets like Sun,
Moon, Mars, Mercury, Venus and Saturn breed attachment, Rahu turns it into the greed. The
greed turns one blind and then one loses the sense of righteousness to satisfy the greed.
50
To effectively conquer attachments and be a winner in all situations, one needs the following
attributes:
Valour and fortitude;
Truthfullness and good conduct;
Strength, discretion, self control and benevolence;
Forgiveness, compassion, evenness of mind;
Adoration of God;
Dispassion;
Contentment;
Charity;
Reason;
Highest wisdom;
Pure and steady mind;
Quietude;
Various forms of abstinence;
Religious observance;
Homage to Brahmins and to one's own preceptor;
Piety
V K Choudhry, Spiritual Guide and Astrologer
Moksha becomes the aim of life for those who are pursuing spiritual advancement. This can be
attained by knowledge and devotion. The path of knowledge is difficult while the path of
devotion is simple and easy to follow.
Srimad Bhagvat Gita Adh.13, explains that Supreme Wisdom is free from all blemishes
enumerated as under:1. Absence of pride;
2. Freedom from hypocrisy;
3. Non-violence;
4. Forgiveness,
5. Guilelessness;
6. Devout service of ones perception;
7. Purity of Body and Mind;
8. Steadfastness;
9. Subjugation of the mind;
10. Aversion to the objects of senses,
11. Absence of egotism;
51
12. Pondering again and again on the painful character of and the evils inherent in birth, death,
old age and diseases;
13. Absence of attachment and the feeling of mine-ness in respect of ones family, home, etc.
14. Constant equipoise of mind both in favorable and unfavorable circumstances;
15. Unflinching devotion in the Lord through exclusive attachment living in secluded and holy
places and finding no enjoyment in the company of the men;
16. Fixity in self knowledge and seeing God as the object of true knowledge.
MAYA (ILLUSION)
The feeling of I, Mine, You and Yours is Maya. Whatever is perceived by the senses and that
which lies within the reach of the mind is Maya (Illusion).
One who has spurned all supernatural powers as well as the three gunas - Sattva, Rajas and
Tamas, and considers everything like a blade of grass is called a man of supreme dispassion and
one who has become free from Maya.
If you are looking for spiritual guidance, inspiration, mental peace, enlightenment, fulfillment,
bhakti, salvation, path for moksha and want to be helpful to mankind, you are welcome.
Besides receiving the guidance and inspiration, you can share your experiences, seek opinion in
case of confusions and discuss ways to further the course of your spiritual journey.
The guidance can also be linked to your birth planets giving you further advice.
Recognising and energising our inner divine strength is harnessed through regular prayers and
meditation. It helps us in developing trust and controlling fear, anxiety and depressing thoughts.
Meditation helps you in leaving the materialistic attachments on the world. Together we can bring
more light to the world by transforming our lives by following the divine teachings. We can bring
peace while living our past karma by being in touch with good and spiritual people.
The mental peace and contentment are important milestones on the spiritual journey / path of
moksha.
Spiritual planets for persons born in various ascending signs can be strengthened for better results
and are as under:
1. Aries: Jupiter and the Sun.
2. Taurus: The Sun.
3. Gemini: Jupiter, the Sun and Saturn.
4. Cancer: The Sun.
5. Leo: Jupiter, the Sun and Mars.
6. Virgo: Jupiter.
7. Libra: Jupiter and the Sun.
8. Scorpio: Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon.
9. Sagittarius: Jupiter and the Sun.
10. Capricorn: Mercury.
52
11. Aquarius: Jupiter, the Sun and Venus.

12. Pisces: Jupiter.

Vedic Astrology Seminar Course Materials - July 2011

Enviado por

Dados do documento

Título original

Direitos autorais

Formatos disponíveis

Compartilhar este documento

Compartilhar ou incorporar documento

Opções de compartilhamento

Você considera este documento útil?

Este conteúdo é inapropriado?

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

Vedic Astrology Seminar Course Materials - July 2011

Enviado por

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

THE FOUR ELEMENTS OF ASTROLOGY

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

Saturn aspects third and tenth houses from its location.

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

Cancer and Leo

Capricorn and Aquarius

Taurus and Libra

First, ninth and tenth houses.

Third and tenth houses

Sixth and tenth houses

Second, fifth, ninth and eleventh houses

Fourth, seventh and twelfth houses

Longevity, that is for the eighth house.

AUSPICIOUS CONJUNCTIONS (RAJYOGAS): The close or exact conjunctions or

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

effective points of various houses cause inauspicious planetary configurations known

The most malefic planets are as under:

MOST MALEFIC PLANET

MOST BENEFIC PLANET

MOST BENEFIC PLANET

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

MEASURING STRENGTH OF THE HOUSES

Northern Indian Style Chart

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

This chart style also shows

Malefic Houses: 6, 8, & 12

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

General significations of the houses:

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

Areas of the body ruled by the various houses:

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

Family relations ruled by the various houses:

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

2. TAURUS: It is an earthy sign. It is ruled by Venus, the significator for

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

Afflictions to this house result in problems of appendicitis, generative organs,

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

MOST EFFECTIVE POINT

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

acquiring a status when strong in a nativity. It governs the professions of hoteliers,

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

authors, accountants, lawyers, experts in analytical works, software engineers,

HOW TO BE YOUR OWN ASTROLOGER

Venus is personified as a minister, preceptor of demons, lover, knowledge of life

ASTROLOGY FOR LIFE WORKSHOP

QUALITIES AND SEX OF PLANETS

FUNCTIONAL NATURE OF PLANETS

FUNCTIONAL MALEFIC PLANETS

Mercury, Rahu and Ketu.

Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Rahu and Ketu.

Rahu and Ketu,