Vedic Astrology FAQ

What is Vedic Astrology?

Vedic Astrology is the system of astrology that was developed by the ancient sages of India, and has been practiced for more than 5,000 years. It is one part of the vast store of Vedic knowledge, which includes the sciences of Ayurveda and Yoga, to name only a couple. Vedic Astrology developed through thousands of years of these sages correlating astronomical observation with the movements of earthly life. It is used as a tool for self-examination and understanding, as well as for living harmoniously and consciously with the various energies at play in the universe. Vedic Astrology, or Jyotish, as it is called in Sanskrit, is meant to be used as a means of transcending the energies that bind us to material existence and suffering.

What is the Difference between Vedic and Western Astrology?

There are some similarities between these two systems, such that the conclusion could be drawn that Western Astrology has its roots in the Vedic Astrological tradition. However, much of what Europeans learned from Asia and the Middle East about astrology was buried or completely lost during the Dark Ages and Inquisition. Astrology, like herbalism, alchemy, and magic, was looked upon as anti-Christian, and its practitioners were persecuted. Hence, with the return to European progress, astrology has re-emerged, but has forged a path of its own. One of the essential differences between the two systems is that in Vedic Astrology, the position of the planets is described by astronomically correct observation. Both an Astronomer and a Vedic Astrologer would agree that when the Moon is in Taurus, it can be observed in the night sky, positioned in the actual constellation of Taurus. The zodiac used in Vedic Astrology coincides with the observable constellations. Western Astrology employs a zodiac that is loosely related to the actual constellations, but the position of the planets is determined by a static concept that generates the positional information. If a Western Astrologer were to join an Astronomer and a Vedic Astrologer on a starry night when the Moon was located in Taurus, he would look at his ephemeris (a chart of planetary positions) and say, "Well, it says right here that the Moon is in Gemini." This is the essential difference.

What can Vedic Astrology do for You?

Vedic Astrologers are consulted for various reasons. The most well known reason is for gaining insight into one's life by seeking an interpretation of the birth chart, which is a chart cast for the moment of birth of an individual. Another reason is to determine a favorable time to begin a venture, such as a marriage or a journey. By studying a birth chart, an astrologer can glean information that can assist an individual in understanding the major trends, obstacles, and gifts that may manifest in that person's life. Much like a map, the birth chart, if understood correctly, can help one to avoid pitfalls, to prepare for difficult times and to make the most of the tools that he or she has been given in this lifetime. If questions like "What is the meaning of Life?" or "What am I on this planet to experience?" have ever entered your mind, Vedic Astrology could very well be a viable tool to assist you in heading toward the answers to those questions.

How does Vedic Astrology Work?

There is a common misconception that Astrology is based on the idea that the planets and stars exert some sort of physical influence on individuals, thereby affecting our lives for good or ill. Certainly, the concept of Jupiter's energy or magnetic vibrations reaching through deep space to target a certain small place on Earth is far fetched. The truth of the matter is that Astrology communicates through a language of symbols. The positions of the various planets at the moment of birth can be looked at like the hands on a very complicated clock. By studying the relationships and positions of the planets through the lens of Vedic Astrology, the nature of a certain individual's life can be revealed. It takes much practice, study, observation, and clarity of vision to unravel the messages portrayed by such a complex timepiece as the dance of the planets around the Sun, against the backdrop of the stars of the universe. Basically the work of a Vedic Astrologer is that of translator; the pattern portrayed by an astrological chart is an arcane arrangement of symbols that shows potentials and possibilities, and it is up to the astrologer to transform what is shown into a message that an individual can understand and use for personal evolution purposes.

What Can I do for You?

The astrological services I offer are aimed toward steering the individual toward a clearer understanding of their particular life lessons and challenges. It is my hope that the information convey to people will help them deal with the challenges of life by making them aware of potential patterns and cycles. Knowledge is a powerful tool for navigating life. I can provide an objective perspective for those seeking self-examination and an understanding of their personal life path. I can point out cycles and patterns, periods of time when certain lessons may come to the front, and inherent tendencies.