In Vedic astrology, nakshatras, or lunar mansions, play a crucial role. They are considered even more significant than the signs of the zodiac due to their profound influence on the Moon, which governs the mind and emotions. Each nakshatra covers a span of 13 degrees and 20 minutes in the zodiac, and there are 27 nakshatras in total. They are each associated with specific attributes, deities, symbols, and planetary rulers, influencing various aspects of daily life, personality traits, and the potential life path of individuals born under them. Nakshatras are used in choosing an auspicious date, discovering synastry - partners compatibility, rectification of the exact birth time and calculation of planetary periods, dashas.
It is of utmost importance to analyse nakshatras of ascendent and Moon, they provide subtle, but steady influence on individual. Each nakshatra provides a detailed layer of insight into an individual's nature and life path, making them integral to the predictive and descriptive powers of Vedic astrology.
Here is an overview of all 27 nakshatras and their primary characteristics:
1. Ashwini: Known for speed and quickness; associated with healers and physicians. Ruled by Ketu.
2. Bharani: Associated with themes of birthing and sustenance, ruled by Venus. Represents creativity and the destructive powers of nature.
3. Krittika: Symbolized by a sharp blade or flame, indicative of cutting through deception. Ruled by the Sun, it stands for power and transformation.
4. Rohini: Focused on growth and development, particularly agriculture and crops. Ruled by the Moon, symbolizing fertility and creativity.
5. Mrigashira: Searching for meaning, often represented by a deer or head of a deer. Ruled by Mars, associated with exploration and curiosity.
6. Ardra: Representing storm and renewal, symbolized by a teardrop. Ruled by Rahu, connected to upheavals and transformations.
7. Punarvasu: Symbol of return or renewal, often linked with abilities to gain wealth and substance again. Ruled by Jupiter.
8. Pushya: Considered auspicious for spiritual and material growth. Symbolized by the udder of a cow, denoting nourishment. Ruled by Saturn.
9. Ashlesha: Associated with entanglement and intimacy, symbolized by a serpent. Ruled by Mercury, connected to healing and mysticism.
10. Magha: Signifying power, authority, and ancestry, often linked to royalty and noble achievements. Ruled by Ketu.
11. Purva Phalguni: Symbolizes good fortune and creativity, associated with marriage and partnerships. Ruled by Venus.
12. Uttara Phalguni: Stands for wealth, prosperity, and marital happiness. Ruled by the Sun, it also represents patronage and protection.
13. Hasta: Symbolized by a hand, indicative of skill and craftsmanship. Ruled by the Moon, associated with manual dexterity.
14. Chitra: Known for shining, building, and creating, symbolized by a bright jewel. Ruled by Mars, linked to artistry and engineering.
15. Swati: Associated with independence and the power of dispersion like the wind. Ruled by Rahu, indicative of change and adaptation.
16. Vishakha: Known for determination and success achieved through effort. Symbolized by a triumphant arch. Ruled by Jupiter.
17. Anuradha: Symbolizes friendship and cooperation, depicted through a lotus. Ruled by Saturn, associated with alliances and reciprocity.
18. Jyeshtha: Represents seniority and the elder, symbolized by a circular amulet. Ruled by Mercury, linked to courage and combat.
19. Mula: Connected with roots and the past, often indicative of destruction that leads to regeneration. Ruled by Ketu.
20. Purva Ashadha: Known for invincibility and victory, symbolized by an elephant tusk. Ruled by Venus, connected to purity and renewal.
21. Uttara Ashadha: Stands for universal victory and righteousness. Ruled by the Sun, associated with unchallengeable victory.
22. Shravana: Symbolized by an ear, associated with learning and listening. Ruled by the Moon, linked to knowledge and receptivity.
23. Dhanishta: Known as the star of symphony, associated with wealth and prosperity through its musical connotations. Ruled by Mars.
24. Shatabhisha: Known as "the hundred physicians" or "the veil", associated with healing and mystery. Ruled by Rahu.
25. Purva Bhadrapada: Represents fiery energy that purifies and transforms. Ruled by Jupiter, associated with spiritual and physical cleansing.
26. Uttara Bhadrapada: Stands for wisdom and stability, symbolized by a twin bed. Ruled by Saturn, indicative of deep meditation and spirituality.
27. Revati: Represents wealth, nourishment, and guidance. Ruled by Mercury, symbolized by a fish swimming in the ocean.
