The Greatness of Saturn: A Therapeutic Myth ~ Dr. Robert Svoboda

In The Greatness of Saturn experience directly the healing power of one of the world’s greatest myths.

The telling of mythic stories has always been a powerful form of therapy, bring healing to people facing adversity. The Greatness of Saturn is such a therapeutic myth, told and retold through many centuries. Taken from the Vedic tradition, it honors the planet Saturn, who personifies time, limitation, loss, and all forms of adversity.

No person goes through life without sometime being touched by Saturn. This book presents a classic Saturn story and a clear view of the cosmology from which the story came. As we hear the story and come to understand its context, we experience a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.

Dr. Robert E. Svoboda

Robert E. Svoboda is the first Westerner ever to graduate from a college of Ayurveda (in 1980) and be licensed to practice Ayurveda in India. During and after his formal Ayurvedic training, his mentor, the Aghori Vimalananda, tutored him in Ayurveda, Yoga, Jyotish, Tantra and other forms of classical Indian lore. After moving to India in 1973, he lived there for more than a decade. Since 1985 he has traveled the world lecturing, consulting, teaching and writing. The author of more than a dozen books and audio works, he has served as Adjunct Faculty at the Ayurvedic Institute, Albuquerque, NM, and Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA. To read more about Dr. Svoboda and his travels, visit his website http://www.drsvoboda.com.

Click here to browse inside.

View here for more on Saturn: Our Worst Enemy or Our Greatest Friend?

Clip from Int. Ayurveda & Yoga Conference- by Dr Robert Svoboda- Ojas & Prana.mov

A clip by Dr Robert Svoboda on Ojas taken from the 2nd International Ayurveda & Yoga Conference held in Sydney 2009.

Keep it simple and sing_Dr Robert Svoboda.mov

Clip from the 2nd International Ayurveda & Yoga Conference, Sydney 2009.

Read here on “Cultivating Prana” by Dr. Svoboda

Awakening – Jyotish analysis of 2012

Given the amount of negative predictions for 2012. I approached somehow reluctantly to my regular analysis of the forthcoming year. But, lo and behold! In spite of everything, I found that next year, at least from the jyotish point of view is everything but dark and threatening! Actually, we have many reasons for hope and optimism.

And while for the previous years that optimism was an instrument for finding the light among many shadows, it is obvious now that the light is prevailing and that no extra effort is needed to find it.

From the jyotis point of view, previous year was called “standstill before awakening”. So, the one in front of us must be – the year of awakening!

For the most part, cosmic rhythms point out exactly this; mostly they are positive and they will not, in spite of all expectations, demand too painful cuts and/or purifications. But, as always, the year we are expecting with mixed feelings, is not free from some dark corners and tendencies.

I will talk about this latter. For now I want to explain my approach to jyotish, especially to those who are new to this kind of analysis.

I do not do predictions. Moreover, I know it is not possible to predict anything. The reality we are living in, as conscious beings, is not one-dimensional nor is it one-directional. We can’t accept any more the mechanical or deterministic model of our future. We live in a quantum mechanical universe in which there is a place for free will; for unpredictable events inside our consciousness; quantum fluctuations and the laws of chaos. However, we know that there are cycles in the nature, and those cycles create patterns in our life.

There is a delicate interplay between uncertainty and freedom inside the microcosms and visible cycles of macrocosms. That interplay is the basis for our future.

The skill I developed is called jyotish. This literary means the light. The light enables us to see the cosmic rhythms, but not the final decisions to be made by conscious beings. That’s why we can only speak about tendencies of the time, not about predictions.

It is true that the reactions of people, who live their life unconsciously, are conditioned and programmed. That’s why sometimes predictions come true. People think they are free, but actually the aren’t.

However, the purpose of jyotish, as the skill of illumination, is not to describe to sleepers what kind of forces will take over the future of their dream. That would be a complete loss of time and energy, since the sleepers cannot do anything anyway. They are just puppets who follow the one who controls the rope.

I use jyotish to sense the value of future periods and to explain that value to those who are conscious enough and capable of making their own decisions, and at the same time mature enough to accept the interconnection of our life with the life of the Universe, with all incentive and restrictions born from that interconnection.

From the technical point of view, jyotish uses sidereal zodiac – the real position of constellations behind the heavenly bodies of our solar system. In this moment sidereal zodiac is a little more than 24 degrees backwards from tropical zodiac (usual in western type of astrology) and moving slowly backwards due to precession.

At the end of every year I make a general jyotish analysis of the year to come. This analysis is based on relatively simple data about movement of visible planets, the Moon and the Sun, on the background of stellar constellations which jyotish calls nakshatras. Its purpose is not to predict concrete events. Actually, the events may differ from one part of the world to another, from one region to another. To make such distinction, we would need to include some additional data.

The purpose of this general and global analysis is to notice subtle energy and spiritual movements in the consciousness of the mankind that are connected to the cosmic rhythms.

Besides the knowledge about the quality of these movements, I give much more importance to advices what to do in each period during the particular year. Such doings may be compared with timely sowing or reaping. If you miss the right time, your success will be lessened.

And, besides timing, there are special “art of giving” procedures, to help us enliven the right energy and intelligence in our life, and in the life of the whole planet.

So, this is not the analysis you will read now, and latter check if I was right or wrong. It will be much more important for all of us to use all good moments, rectify the injustice and remove all the suffering we can.

In this case, I believe that good news and justified optimism will be helpful to many to overcome the fear from year 2012. as the possible end-of-the world year. Actually, it’s quite contrary – I believe that 2012. will prove to be a year of inspiration, creativity, spirituality and awakening!

Longer periods during 2012

I will start with the description of longer periods “created” by the transits of slower planets (or grahas how jyotish calls them) on the background of stellar constellations, so called nakshatras. These periods are general and not restricted on certain area.

Beside the planet Saturn who, with Chitra nakshatra, creates the “breaking apart” period, which is seemingly negative, the main role during the year is taken by Venus. It is her position and heavenly dance that creates the basis for the optimistic view of 2012.

Inside every period there will be recommended activities, so called upayas. Jyotish has very efficient technology of preventive measures. I suggest we call them “art of giving” procedures. These procedures are simple, mainly humanitarian activities, and they very obviously help to create certain quality around you – the quality that fits the best to the active cosmic rhythm. In this way we are actually “sowing” at the right time.

My warm recommendation for everyone is to do these simple and helping activities, and respect recommended timings. In that way you will most efficiently contribute to the positive characteristics and neutralise the negative characteristics of the given period.

Periods of Saturn (Shani)

Predictions end 2012 from Vedic Astrology- Dennis Harness, PhD – Sedona, US

Dennis M Harness, Ph.D
Aum – Vedic AstrologyVedic Astrologer and Teacher
Jyotish Kovid, Jyotisha Vachaspati

Dennis M. Harness, Ph.D. is a professional vedic astrologer and lecturer who received his doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco, California.

For more than twenty years, Dennis has studied both Eastern and Western astrological techniques with some of the world’s most respected astrologers. He has published numerous articles, research papers and book chapters in the fields of astrology, psychology, and medicine.

Dennis was a founding member of the American Council of Vedic Astrology and served as president of the American College of Vedic Astrology, located in Sedona, Arizona, from 1999-2009. His book, The Nakshatras: The Lunar Mansions of Vedic Astrology, is published by Lotus Press and continues to be one of the few works dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of these important, and often overlooked, asterisms of Vedic Astrology.

Dennis is currently working on his new book, The Karmic CodeTM: Discover Your Spiritual DNA and Life Purpose….

View Here on his article on Moksha / 12th House and previous video interview.

Astrology and the Use of Herbs ~ Humanity Healing

According to research, the origins of astrology had its cradle in the third century BC among the Chaldeans. Inside the tomb of the pharaoh Ramses was found a celestial chart showing the astral influences on all the organs of the human body. From there, Chaldean astrology made its way to Greece, aligning itself with philosophy and mathematics along with other sciences of the “holistic” ancient world.

In Rome, under the influence of the Church, astrological predictions eventually were considered superstitious, and astrologers, along with mystics and spiritualists, were to suffer the persecution of the Catholic Church.

The Arabs in northern Africa and the Mediterranean were the caretakers responsible for the continuity of astrological studies and traditions, adding to this knowledge with the development of more precise calculations, aspects, angles, and areas of influence in man’s life.

The Arabs were also pioneers in the study of treatment with herbs and medicinal plants. They were also the creators of the first known hospitals of the ancient world. Nowadays, herbs and flowers are still used in the preparation medicinal tinctures, teas and dyes. When these herbs are harvested on days and hours of specific planetary regencies, they become effective on the improvement or cure of specific diseases.

Our current society mostly cherishes the values of scientific research and tries to diminish the ancient value of these natural ways of healing in favor or allopathic pharma; as if the advancement of biochemistry are the only treatments possible for our physical ills.

We have a mainstream society where homeopathy and herbal sciences are not fully supported. Obviously, we must not forget that the allopathic treatments sometime are necessary, but we should never forget to add the advantage of a complementary and supplementary use of natural resources such as herbs.

The entry of the Sun in the Zodiac Virgo is a great cosmic cycle for the harvesting of herbs, flowers and roots in order to prepare tinctures and remedies. It is indeed perfect time integration with the healing force since Virgo is the sign of the sixth house of the astral map, reigning upon health and lifestyle.

The following lists contain the Astrological Herbal Correspondences for Elements, Planets and signs:

ELEMENTS

FIRE: Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Carrot, Cedar, Cinnamon, Clove, Coriander, Cumin, Frankincense, Ginger, Hyssop, Juniper berry, Mandarin, Neroli, Nutmeg, Orange, Pennyroyal, Petty grain, Rosemary, Rue, Saffron, Sassafras.

WATER: Camphor, Cardamom, Chamomile, Cypress, Geranium, Ginger, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Lemon, Marjoram, Melissa, Mugwort, Myrrh, Pennyroyal, Sandalwood, Spikenard, Valerian, Vanilla, Ylang-ylang

AIR: Anise, Bergamot, Caraway, Clary sage, Dill, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Fir, Geranium, Lavender, Lemongrass, Lime, Marjoram, Myrtle, Neroli, Palma Rosa, Peppermint, Pine, Rose, Sage, Spearmint, Thyme

EARTH: Balsam, Bois de Rose, Cardamom, Clary Sage, Myrtle, Narcissus, Oak moss, Patchouli, Rose, Sage, Spikenard, Thyme, Vanilla, Vetiver, Wintergreen

PLANETS

SUN: Angelica, Bay Laurel, Bergamot, Carrot, Cedar, Cinnamon, Frankincense, Juniper berry, Lime, Mandarin, Neroli, Orange, Rosemary, and Plants those are beneficial to the heart and circulation.

MOON: Camphor, Chamomile, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Labdanum, Lemon, Mugwort, Myrrh, (also many night blooming, white tropical flowers). Include Plants that may affect the activities of the subconscious. Plants living by the water.

MERCURY: Anise, Caraway, Clary Sage, Dill, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Lavender, Lemongrass, Narcissus, Peppermint, Sage, Spearmint, Storax, Thyme, Wintergreen

VENUS: Balsam de Peru, Bois de Rose, Cardamom, Cypress, Geranium, Lavender, Marjoram, Myrtle, Oak moss, Palma Rosa, Patchouli, Rose, Sandalwood, Thyme, Vanilla, Vetiver, Ylang-ylang; herbs that calm overindulgence in food.

MARS: Basil, Black pepper, Carrot, Coriander, Cumin, Ginger, Pennyroyal, Petty grain, Pine, Rue, Sassafras

JUPITER: Bay Laurel, Bergamot, Cedar, Clove, Hyssop, Melissa, Nutmeg, Saffron, Sage, Sandalwood. Herbs that promote a positive frame of mind and expansion.

SATURN: Clary sage, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Fir, Myrrh, Oak moss, Patchouli, Spikenard, Vetiver

URANUS: Chamomile (blue), Eucalyptus, Fennel, Lime, Neroli. Herbs that energize stimulate and promote inspiration.

NEPTUNE: Honeysuckle, Melissa, Mugwort, Myrrh, Sandalwood, Spikenard. Mystical herbs that are helpful in dream work.

PLUTO: Anise, Basil, Cypress, Pennyroyal, Valerian. Herbs known as beneficial for enhancing sexuality

SIGNS OF THE ZODIAC

ARIES: (Cardinal fire, ruled by Mars, sun exalted) – Bay laurel, Black pepper, Cedar, Frankincense, Ginger, Petty grain, Pine, Rue, Sassafras

TAURUS: (fixed earth, ruled by mars, moon exalted) – Bois de Rose, Cardamom, Geranium, Jasmine, Myrtle, Oak moss, Patchouli, Rose, Thyme, Vanilla.

GEMINI: (Mutable Aair, ruled by Mercury) – Dill, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint, spearmint, Storax

CANCER: (cardinal water, ruled by Moon, Jupiter exalted) – Camphor, carrot, chamomile, honeysuckle, jasmine, lemon

LEO: (fixed fire, ruled by sun) – Bay laurel, cinnamon, frankincense, Juniper berry, Mandarin, Neroli, Rosemary, saffron

VIRGO: (mutable earth, ruled by mercury, Mercury exalted) – Caraway, Clary sage, Narcissus, Spikenard, Wintergreen

LIBRA: (cardinal air, ruled by Venus, Saturn exalted) – Cypress, lavender, Marjoram, myrtle, Palma rose, rose, spearmint, thyme

SCORPIO: Fixed water, ruled by mars and Pluto, Uranus exalted) – Anise, Basil, Coriander, Cumin, cypress, ginger, labdanum, Pennyroyal, pine, rue, valerian

SAGITTARIUS: (mutable fire, ruled by Jupiter) – Angelica, bergamot, cedar, clove, coriander, hyssop, nutmeg, sage, saffron

CAPRICORN: (cardinal earth, ruled by Saturn and Uranus) – Clary sage, Oak moss, patchouli, Spikenard, Vetiver

AQUARIUS: (fixed air, ruled by Saturn and Uranus) – Chamomile (blue), Clay sage, eucalyptus, fennel, fir, lime, Neroli

PISCES: (Mutable water, ruled by Jupiter and Neptune, Venus exalted) – Honeysuckle, Marjoram, Melissa, mugwort, sandalwood, spikenard, ylang-ylang

Interview for the Paranormal Examiner with Melissa Alvarez

“Interview for the Paranormal Examiner with Melissa Alvarez, Houston Jan. 2009″

Melissa Alvarez

Please join me in welcoming Veno to the site. She is a Vedic Astrologer with a wealth of knowledge. I hope you enjoy her interview.

Interview with Veno:

What is vedic astrology?

Vedic Astrology is part of an ancient body of knowledge from India called the Vedas. Its real name is Jyotish which means the science of light. The Vedas are a collection of teachings about the universe and instruct man how to evolve into his highest potential. These ancient teachings were passed down to us originally in oral form through powerful beings called sages or rishis who were directly plugged into the mind of god and who are said to be the progenitors of humankind. The system of vedic astrology used today was put into writing by the sons of these original seven sages or rishis some 5000 years ago.

As a partner of astronomy, astrology is a record of time and analyzes the movement of the cosmos, the planets, stars, constellations and how this movement impacts earth and our human existence on various levels from the mundane to the spiritual. We can see the past, present and future path of an individual, country or event by constructing a symbolic map called the horoscope which shows how these cosmic energies are arranged at a particular moment in time.

Vedic astrology is a guide to help us navigate ourselves on a better path through life. It can be used to help us understand our psychology, our material potential for wealth and career, our health difficulties and remedies, our love relationships, our children, our talents, our strengths and weaknesses, our spiritual lessons, how to awaken our spiritual potential, the types of energies which will impact us in the future, our successes and failures in every realm of human existence. It deals with the process of karma, and shows us what karmas we incarnate with at the time of our birth; the sum of all the potential inside of us that will get activated in this lifetime, that we have to work with and eventually transcend on our quest to unite with our essential godself or real nature. No human being is born with the same map, because every moment in time as seen from a particular vantage point on earth aligns the heavens, stars and constellations in a different way.

How did you first get into Vedic Astrology and can you explain a little bit about your spiritual background?

Veno

I grew up in Australia. As a child I was clairaudient and clairvoyant. I was always having intense experiences of one kind of another. My mother’s family in Tahiti were exorcists and healers on the island for many generations so I had an early awareness of these things through her. I was raised as a Christian, but my father’s interest in anthropology led me to study indigenous shamanism in my teens. I always had a strong interest in divination and dabbled in many divination techniques including western astrology, until one day in 1990 I stumbled on a book by B. V. Raman and that led to my interest in Vedic Astrology.

Vedic Astrology was a doorway into the other areas of Indian Vedic culture and wisdom. For many years I studied on my own, but had opportunity to exchange knowledge with other astrologers and western tantric practitioners and started giving consultations early on. A part of me felt like I was remembering the science rather than learning it. For a brief period I studied under a spiritual healer in Britain which opened up awareness of the ancient Celtic spiritual tradition.

In 2000 I met Prashant Trivedi, a young brahmin astrologer from India, an amazingly erudite scholar and practitioner of Vedic arts and he initiated me into much deeper aspects of the science. We worked together for several years until I started my own practice. I spent some time in India to further my spiritual education. I currently practice all types of divination techniques along with eastern esoteric practices. I think it is difficult to be a competent astrologer unless you really immerse yourself in the entire spectrum of Vedic teachings.

How does Vedic astrology differ from Western astrology or other systems of astrology?

Western astrology, the offspring of Babylonian astrology, has a lot of similarities to Vedic astrology but there are technical differences in how the chart is constructed and some major differences in interpretative techniques. Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac and Western astrology uses the tropical zodiac.

There’s a lot of debate on which is the correct zodiac. Vedic astrology offers a much more profound insight into our destiny and psyche. It has superior predictive techniques. It is very vast in its technical applications compared to Western astrology which is much simpler . I would say that all the astrological systems in use today stem from one original astrology. It’s just that the preservation of this original astrology has gotten dispersed through the successive civilizations, and corrupted or completely altered over the course of time.

The written documents on the Vedic system are the most well preserved and intact of all ancient cultures, and have been for thousands of years. With other cultures such as the Tibetan, Chinese, Mayan, Bablyonian, Egyptian, only fragments remain , but we can still see the common thread between systems, that they must have all stemmed from the same source.

Would you say that Vedic astrology is purely a science of logic or does it depend on intuitive ability?

The construction of a horoscope is a very mathematical and precise process and there are very specific rules for determining the outcome of a particular pattern or combination of planets found in the chart. But there is an art to interpreting how all of these individual combinations, patterns, planetary associations work together as a whole to create the big picture. There’s an art to how many results one can infer from a planetary combination. One astrologer will give more exacting results while another astrologer will see many layers of meaning in a chart. In the end it comes down to a certain type of intuitive and perceptive artistry combined with a gift for pure logical calculation and deduction.

I think the better astrologers spend a lot of time in daily observation and can offer more decisive conclusions based on repetitive observation. The older I get I am finding that a lot of knowledge comes through a channeling process. Most of my best insights are not written in books or coming through a teacher, rather coming through psychic antennas from the big unknown. I think that is also part of the real art of the science, this flow of awareness that develops through awakening the kundalini and opening the chakras. This is an aspect of the science I really got in touch with when I studied under Prashant Trivedi.

How do you envision the future of Vedic astrology?

I think Vedic astrology or Jyotish is the real heart and guts of astrology and that every other system should incorporate it as their foundation and then integrate their own techniques to add more flavor. Today Vedic astrologers do use techniques from other systems, such as the Tajaka or yearly Arabian chart which gives more insight into the year ahead from one birthday to the next. Many Vedic astrologers incorporate the outer planets and progressions used in Western astrology.

It would be good to unite the best parts of different systems to create a more universal and complete system, which I think existed in an earlier golden age or epoch. Even within Vedic Astrology there are several systems such as the Parashara based system, Jaimini system and new ones like the KP system, so there is a lot to integrate and share.

Do you have any insights about the new USA president Barack Obama?

Politics is a grey area, because there are more powers at work behind the scenes then the ones that are public figure heads. Looking at Obama’s birth chart he is running a Jupiter Mars period until February 2010 followed by Jupiter Rahu after that time until July 2012. Mars is malefic-ally placed in his 8th house with the north node Rahu.

Apart from a great deal of personal turmoil and some threats to his personal wellbeing, he is occupying the presidency during a time when his country will undergo significant transformations through upheavals of a rather negative nature. The ideals which he has promised are not going to be successfully achieved because Mars occupies a weak degree and Rahu’s influence can show them being radically distorted or altered, but during his presidential occupation there should be some attempts to enact major changes in the economic and military structure.

He is prepared to take risks. His Jupiter is conjunct Saturn in his first house in Capricorn. He will maintain his reputation as being a champion of the underdog and so those in the lower echelons of society might benefit economically during a brief time, but it looks as though he has entered office during a period of great crisis and military unrest. I think he will get caught in a storm which he feels he has little control over. Saying that his Mars and Rahu are well placed in the navamsa so I think at the end of the day he will feel he did his job to the best of his ability.

Nostradamus predicted that 2012 would be the end of the world, and 21st December 2012 is the end of the Mayan calendar. What does Vedic astrology have to say about 2012?

There are various time cycles operating which effect humanity, some are longer, some are shorter. December 2012 is notable because the winter solstice will be harmonizing with the galactic center at that time, which falls in 6 degrees of Sagittarius in a zodiacal constellation known as Mula. The Sun will be at 6 degrees Sagittarius on the 21st December 2012. Mula is a constellation ruled by Kali and Kali is the goddess of death and transformation, so there is a major ending of some kind on that date. Mula is also connected to a god called Ganesha who rules new beginnings, so it is also heralds a new beginning.

It means that the galactic center can affect humanity, and the Sun traditionally rules the soul, it is our link to the god force. The Mayans were recording the end of a long precessional cycle of 25, 800 years and ended the cycle on December 2012. There are a lot of predictions about calamities and upheavals preceding that time, which is already happening, but I think the ending of the precessional cycle marks a subtle inner transformation, a doorway to a heightened consciousness in those who are seeking that.

Some say it is the real beginning of the Age of Aquarius, because we have been in the Age of Pisces for the last 2000 years. The Age of Pisces was about faith and the Age of Aquarius is about knowing. So we no longer require faith to connect to the divine, we will know we are connected because of the progress in sciences. It is a good time for a renaissance in Astrology and Vedic sciences in general. Saturn and Mars are exalted on December 2012 which brings in a more pragmatic and realist way of thinking.

But there are longer cycles which are dominating humanity such as Kali Yuga. According to Vedic texts, we are still going to be running Kali Yuga for several thousand years. It is the age of spiritual decline, so things have not gotten as bad as they can get. But December 2012 should initiate a window for improvements in the minds of some of the people, which do have a positive effect on the planet for a brief period. We could see it as a miniature golden age, but the general mass of population would still be unaffected.

For those who are sincere on their spiritual path now is an opportunity to move forward and strengthen their spiritual resolve. Kali Yuga is an age of compassion in many ways. It is easier and faster to achieve enlightenment during this age then at any other time.

What kind of people come to you for astrology readings?

Anybody who is concerned about self-growth and how to make the best of their time here. My clients have included billionaires, millionaires, artists, lawyers, doctors, policemen, a famous guru, a convicted terrorist, priests, accountants, house wives, bankers, secretaries, salesmen, mystics, athletes, students, authors, journalists, musicians,terminally ill patients, other astrologers….. Everyone can benefit from a Vedic astrology reading.

What area of vedic astrology do you specialize in?

My talents are best used in helping a person to grasp a meaningful picture of their overall destiny and main life purpose from an esoteric perspective. Other astrologers I know are good at finances and speculation, some are better at predicting physical events, some astrologers are good at determining effects of weather or nationwide events. One astrologer I met in India had devoted his life to medical astrology and was very good at diagnosing medical conditions and their remedies. He had studied more than 50,000 charts in this area alone. I give readings on all areas, but I prefer to focus on the main dharma of a person. Lately I have been experimenting with speculation.

How does one get a reading from you and how does it work?

I can be contacted through my website at http://www.venoastrology.com. As I travel a lot it is easiest to get in touch with me through my website.

Thank you, Veno, for being with us today and for offering such a detailed interview about Vedic Astrology. This interview was published in its entirety. The response to the question, Do you have any insights about the new USA president Barack Obama?, the predictions are Veno’s opinion based upon her knowledge and use of vedic astrology.

1. Transcendence and 12th House 2. Transcendence of Ego versus slave to Ego.~ by Veno

12th house has many meanings but one of them is transcendence. Planets in the 12th house and what they represent are things one is having to transcend otherwise these are things which can imprison us, they also create suffering, loss and wasteful expression.

Sun here can indicate a need to transcend the ego.

Moon indicates a need to transcend the mind or emotional psyche.

Mars a need to transcend passion and lust.

Venus a need to transcend attachments to beauty, pleasure, relationship.

Jupiter gives a need to transcend religion, beliefs,morals, prosperity.

Mercury is a need to transcend intellect.

Saturn is a need to transcend material limitations including the body, old age, disease, sorrows, fears.

Rahu is a need to transcend addictions, illusions and also attachment to the future.

Ketu is a need to transcend the past and also in many ways what the 12th house itself represents such as loss, expenditure, the subconscious conditioning and even desire for liberation itself, in order to become truly liberated.

“The Spiritual Man” by Veno

The horoscope is a reference point for a particular time and place. The main reference point in the horoscope is the Ascendant because it is the main identifying feature of an individual. This reference point is valid for both the Spiritual Man and the Ordinary Man because it is the vehicle through which the essence of the ‘self’ finds expression.

In most people, the reference point refers to the “I” element or “personal ego”. The true definition of a Spiritual Man is that there is no one fixed reference point because there is no “I”. The Spiritual Man can move from one reference point to another at will. The Spiritual Man can be in one place or all places at the same time. He can easily stand on Earth, Orion or any star or planet in the galaxy he chooses.He can visit the past or travel into the future. He can transgress the physical laws of time and space.

The Spiritual Man lives in an eternal present with no fixed abode. His reference point depends on the dictates of his will, a will perfectly aligned with the Cosmic will that is unlimited in attribute. The Spiritual Man has the freedom to locate to a new reference point temporarily or permanently. The permanent relocation is happening in the cases of advanced yogis who choose the moment of death, obliterating all traces of their reference point even on the physical plane as they dissolve their physical bodies into pure light. They are making the atomic shift to a completely new reference point. Ordinary Man has no such freedom. At the time of death his new reference point remains pretty much the same as the one he is leaving behind.

Until the Spiritual Man chooses to permanently shift his reference point, like the Ordinary Man, his reference point at the time of birth provides the vehicle of a particular size, shape, colour and quality which holds the genetic and environmental codes for his mental, emotional and physical experiences.

When we study an individual’s natal chart we usually understand that we are analyzing the reference point of one who has not stepped outside the “single reference point matrix”, who is still a slave to the laws of the personal “I” or ego; laws which are governed by the personal “I’s” past actions and desires, which define the present “I’s” actions and desires, and give rise to the presupposition of the future “I’s” actions and desires.

We can regard the horoscope as a map of a place full of winding roads and sights to see, which the “I” – a particular vehicle of a particular make, colour and quality drives through. The benefit of learning how to read the map is that we can use this knowledge to make the journey safer and more comfortable, and by improving our steering control, we empower the Spiritual Man inside ourselves and develop our “will”, which is an implicit agreement to execute the intent of the creator.

The horoscope is not a profile of the Spiritual Man as such, who stands outside of it, but a reference point which the Spiritual Man uses. The Ordinary Man has no such ability because his sense of self is too limiting and he has not developed his will.

The difference between the Spiritual Man and the Ordinary Man is that the Spiritual Man acts from Pure Intent and the Ordinary Man doesn’t. This greatly affects the scope of influence and the level of refinement a Spiritual Man possesses compared to the Ordinary Man.

For example, if Sun and Ketu are in the nakshatras of Krittika in the 4th house of the charts of both an Ordinary Man and a Spiritual Man, the ability to control others in the personal environment using a commanding, terrifying and warlike countenance is equally pronounced. The difference is that one commands from the perspective of Karmic Justice and his personal environment spans the length and breadth of the galaxy, and the other one’s commands are based on a personal definition of justice whose sphere of influence is limited to home, town, country whatever. One is acting out of an unselfish impersonal need to preserve the spiritually coherent matrix that is the Universe; while the other one acts out of limiting personal egoic considerations which often conflicts with Universal considerations, even if those considerations have a benign purpose. One does not need to be benign to be in harmony with universal will.

The key word is “Preservation”. The Spiritual Man is “Preserving”, which is why out of the universal threefold hierarchy, only Vishnu, the Preserver, incarnates on earth as an avatar, to set an example fo all men to follow.

To become a Spiritual Man is to become like Vishnu, the Preserver, and to have the ability to choose more than one reference point.

Veno

Veno has practiced Vedic Astrology for two decades and has been a student of occult science since her early teens. Her ancestral indigenous lineage introduced her to shamanic concepts from a young age. She studied and practiced psychic healing before co-founding OSFA, Orion school & Foundation for Astrology in 2000.

For many years she underwent extensive training in Jyotish/Vedanta and had opportunity to visit India to get more acquainted with Vedic roots.

She travelled widely thoughout the Americas documenting shamanic culture of indigenous people and exchanging dialogue and teachings with native elders. She now runs her own Jyotish practice.

Her media appearances include BBC Radio (London), Channel 5 TV (London), Sky TV (New York), Mix Talk Radio (Ohio) and the Paranormal Examiner (Texas).

She has contributed to published works, “Sun-The Cosmic Power House” (co author)and “The 27 Celestial Portals” (illustrator) by Prash Trivedi.

Besides teaching astrology and consultations, Veno is a musician and visual artist and worked as a professional musician in Britain and New York.

She maintains a deep interest in Vedic & Tantric practices

Vedic Planetary Deities by Dennis M. Harness, Ph.D.

Sun: Surya is the Vedic name and main deity associated with the Sun. Surya is the fire of the heavenly sphere that illumines the world. The light form of Shiva is also associated with the Sun. Shiva means the “auspicious” one. Shiva is the yogi in meditation reflected by Surya, who represents the atman, the soul. Surya is the origin of all evolution, the source of all that exists in the universe. According to Parashara, the chief deity associated with the Sun is Agni, the god of fire. Surya is also known as divya-agni, the celestial fire.

Moon: Chandra is the Vedic name for the Moon. Shakti / Parvati are considered the main female deities associated with the Moon. They are the consorts of Shiva. Parvati is said to remember her previous life as Shiva’s wife, Shakti. Parvati translates as, “she who dwells in the mountains”. Such a goddess is an appropriate mate for Shiva, who also likes to dwell in mountainous regions and the fringe of society. Another name and deity associated with the Moon is Soma. Soma is the divine nectar, the sacrificial elixir of the Gods. Soma is pictured as a priestly sage, a powerful god who is a healer of all diseases and a bestower of riches. He is also the father of Mercury (“Out of the Moon, the mind was born”). Parashara states that the main deity of the Moon is Varuna, God of the cosmic waters.

Mercury: Budha is the Vedic name for Mercury reflecting divine intelligence (buddhi). Beyond the mind is intellect (buddhi). According to Parashara, Vishnu is the main male deity associated with Mercury. He is the god of cosmic intelligence, the preserver and pervader of the universe. Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and learning is the female deity reflecting mercurial powers. Saraswati means “the flowing one”. She is the goddess of creative intelligence, a flowing stream of inspiration like the ancient Sarasvati River which she takes her name from. Saraswati is identified with thought and intellect. “May the Goddess Saraswati, with all power, full of power, further us, as the guide of our minds.” Rig Veda Vol. I. 61.

Venus: Shukra is the Vedic name for Venus. Shukra actually means “semen” representing the power of fertility and reproduction. Lakshmi is the main female deity associated with Venus in Hindu mythology. She is often pictured as the devoted wife or consort of Vishnu. She is the earth, the creation, one with all females, abundance, luxury and pleasure that is healing and revitalizing. She is often depicted sitting on a lotus flower, flanked by two elephants, who are showering her with cosmic waters which represent fertilizing rains. Parashara states that Indrani, Lord Indra’s consort, is the presiding deity of Venus.

Mars: Mangal or Kuja are the Vedic names for fiery Mars. The main deity is Subrahmanya or Skanda. He is the adolescent Kumara, the son of Pleiades (Kartikeya), lord of the armies, the spear-holder, the spiritual warrior. According to Parashara, Kartikeya is the chief deity associated with Mars and was Shiva and Parvarti’s second son. In yoga, Skanda is the power of chastity and the virile seed. By making his sublimated seed rise through the central inner channel of the subtle-body (susumna) up to the sixth chakra where it is consumed, that the yogi becomes the complete master of his instincts. He is often depicted riding a peacock and carrying a spear. Rudra, the God of storms, is also mentioned as reflected the Mars archetype of the warrior.

Jupiter: Guru is the Vedic name for the great benefic, Jupiter. The primary deity is Brihaspati, the teacher of the Gods, who is known for his divine intellect and speech. He has reached the stage of bliss that is beyond desire. Brihaspati, the god of asceticism and the lord of speech is considered an incarnation of Brahma, the creator. Ganapati or Ganesha is sometimes identified with the Great-Lord, Brahaspati. Ganapati is also considered as a God of Learning and “remover of obstacles”. He is the lord of categories (gana), the patron of letters and schools. Ganesha’s wives are Success (Siddhi) and Prosperity (Rddhi). Parashara also lists Indra as the presiding deity associated with Jupiter.

Saturn: Shani is the Vedic name for the planet of truth (satya), Saturn. The male deity is the dark side of Shiva, the destroyer. He destroys Kama (desire) through the gaze of his eyes. The female deity associated with Saturn is Kali. She is adorned with a necklace of skulls around her neck, which represents the heads of ignorance that she has removed. Shani and Kali are often dressed in black or dark blue and are associated with spritual discipline and asceticism. Parashara states that Brahma is the chief deity associated with Saturn. Yama is also associated with Saturn as a planetary deity according to Phaladeepika by Mantereswara. 1

North Node of the Moon: Rahu is considered the dragon’s head or north node of the Moon. Rahu is considered an anti-God and a bitter enemy to the Moon (Chandra). It was Soma, the Moon God that detected Rahu disguised as a god receiving the ambrosia of immortality. Rahu’s head was severed by Vishnu, the preserver; but since it had drank of the divine nectar it had everlasting life. As revenge, Rahu tries to devour the Moon when it is full. This is the tale of the eclipses and why they are vulnerable times on the planet. Durga is considered the main female deity associated with Rahu. She is a fierce warrior, battle queen and personal savior of her devotees.

South Node of the Moon: Ketu is the dragon’s tail or south node of the Moon. The deity associated with Ketu is Rudra, the lord of the storms and the causer of tears. Ganesha is sometimes associated with Ketu as the bringer of enlightenment. Ketu is called the moksha karaka planet, the chaya graha (shadow planet) of spiritual liberation. Ketu is also considered a monster that gives birth to comets and meteors. It is also said to have a Mars-like quality, spiritual warrior quality.

1 Kapoor, G.S. Mantreswara’s Phaladeepika. New Delhi, India: Ranjan Publications, 1996.

“Maturity of Planets & Houses” by Veno

What makes Vedic Astrology superior to other Divination systems, including Western Astrology, is its level of accuracy and precision in prediction. Predictive methods are based on very complex calculations and there are numerous methods which will pinpoint timing down to the exact minute. However there is a simple method which gives remarkable results and should be taken into account when seeing a chart.

Planets and houses are said to give their maturity effects at certain ages in a person’s life. The planets are more significant in this regard. When a planet matures at a certain age, the full potential of the planet will be able to manifest at that time. Whatever a planet promises in the chart, will be clearly visible in a person’s life at that age.

This is a very important method of prediction and can often work like magic. In some cases just knowing a person’s age without having access to their chart can give you a strong idea of what they are experiencing in life and how that planet corresponding to their age actually functions in their chart. The maturity planet will show its intrinsic nature as well as the results of its chart placement. The intensity of its effects will last until the next planet matures.

AGE WHEN PLANETS GIVE THEIR FULL EFFECTS

Jupiter Matures at 15 – 20 years of age (peak 16)

Sun Matures at 22 years of age

Moon Matures at 24 years of age

Venus Matures 25 – 27 years of age (peak 25)

Mars Matures at 28 – 31 years of age (peak 28)

Mercury Matures at 32 – 35 years of age (peak 32)

Saturn Matures at 36 – 39 years of age (peak 36)

Rahu Matures at 42 – 47 years of age (peak 42)

Ketu Matures at 48 – 54 years of age (peak 48)

Jupiter’s maturity age (15th birthday) 16th year, will often give some special opportunities, wealth, or higher learning (Jupiter’s natural significations) and whatever else it indicates in the chart.

Sun’s maturity age (21st birthday) 22nd year, will bring out the person’s underlying tendencies to the fore, and if well placed is an important time for professional advancement, along with whatever else Sun indicates in the chart.

Moon’s maturity age (23rd birthday) 24th year, will show some psychological maturity. Whatever else the Moon indicates in the chart will come to the fore.

From one’s 24th birthday (25th year) Venus will mature. As a natural significator of love a person will generally expect some romance even marriage in their life, if supported by the main horoscope. Venus will also give the effects of its chart placement.

Mars maturity age (27th birthday) 28th year, will see a person developing more initiative and independence in their life. Mars will also give the effects of its chart placement.

Mercury’s maturity age (31st birthday) 32nd year, will see more intellectual development and important communication activities taking place. Mercury will also give the effects of its chart placement.

Saturn’s maturity age (35th birthday) 36th year, can usher in important changes. A person may experience some form of upheaval or find more security and stability in their life. Whatever a person has been working hard towards in the house that Saturn occupies, will give its full results at this age.

Rahu’s maturity age (41st birthday ) 42nd year, can make one more focused on the opportunities for growth that Rahu signifies in the chart.

Ketu’s maturity age (47th birthday) 48th year, is an important time for introspection and reflection on how one has developed up till now in their lives. It can be an important spiritual turning point.

If a planet is afflicted in a chart, when it reaches maturity the full negative potential of that planet will be able to manifest. As an example, if Saturn were badly placed in the 4th house of a horoscope, at the age of 36 a person will have some kind of emotional crisis or difficulties with property matters. Saturn is sure to show its more negative inherent traits such as obstacles, delays, miserliness, over attachment and poverty. If this Saturn were also ruler of the 5th and 6th house it will show obstructions in love affairs, creativity, children (5th house) and problems with debts, enemies and health (6th house). On the other hand if Saturn is a strong benefic or yogakaraka then one may see a sudden rise in fortune at the age of 36.

MATURITY AGE OF HOUSES

Houses are said to mature at certain times in a person’s life also. If a person has a particularly strong or weak house it will show its effect quite obviously during the period of its duration, alongside other more important predictive factors.

9th House Maturity Age (1-24 yrs)

10th House Maturity Age (25 – 26 yrs)

11th House Maturity Age (27 -28 yrs)

12th House Maturity Age (29 – 30 yrs)

1st House Maturity Age (31 – 33 yrs)

2nd House Maturity Age (34 – 36 yrs)

3rd House Maturity Age (37 – 39 yrs)

4th House Maturity Age (40 – 45 yrs)

5th House Maturity Age (46 – 51 yrs)

6th House Maturity Age (52 – 57 yrs)

7th House Maturity Age (58 – 65 yrs)

8th House Maturity Age (66 yrs onwards)

Up to 24 years of age when the 9th house is giving effects, a person will be very much at the mercy of their fortune or misfortune, depending on the strength of the 9th house in the chart. This is a time when a person develops their main outlook and approach to life , and finds their destined path or general life direction.

From one’s 24th birthday to 26 years of age, one’s career often becomes an important point of focus, and trying to attain professional recognition. From one’s 26th birthday to 28 years of age, social opportunities may manifest, along with focusing on one’s ability for wealth and profits and trying to achieve major ambitions and long term goals.

From one’s 28th birthday to 30 years of age, a person may have to deal with issues of loss, long distance travel may be important, along with spiritual awakening and seeking a greater meaning to existence.

From one’s 30th birthday to 33 years of age, a person may be trying to formulate their self identity and become more independent.

From one’s 33rd birthday to 36 years of age, a person may be focused on earning money, development of speech and acquiring knowledge.

From one’s 36th birthday to 39 years of age, a person may be fostering their independence and initiative, and learning to handle communication in a more effective manner. New creative skills may be taken up at this time.

From one’s 39th birthday to 45 years of age, a person may be concerned more about inner stability and settling down in a permanent home.

From one’s 45th birthday to 51 years of age, new creative activities may spring up, along with concentration on one’s children and their lives.

From one’s 51st birthday to 57 years of age, a person may have to focus more on their health and whatever else their 6th house indicates in the chart.

By one’s 57th birthday to 65 years of age, a person has learnt to deal with relationships in a certain way.

From one’s 65th birthday onwards a person has to confront issues about death and the mysteries of life.

Copyright Veno 2007

Vedic Astrology Q & A – Yogi Baba Prem

Yogi Baba Prem answers questions about Vedic Astrology.