There are many different types of astrology, each with its own unique set of beliefs and teachings. Vedic astrology and Western astrology are two of the most popular forms of astrology, and while they share some similarities, they also have some key differences. Let's take a closer look at these two distinct types of astrology and explore the differences (and similarities) between them.
What is Vedic Astrology?
"Vedic" comes from the word "Veda" in Sanskrit, which means knowledge, in a very broad context. Vedic astrology is a system of astrology that is predictive in nature. Vedic astrologers focus on the analysis and forecasting system based on astronomical data that allows them to assess and understand behaviour, measure the effects of the past, the influence of the present, and the tendency of events to unfold in the future. This type of Indian astrology comes from the oldest and most important scriptures in India, the Vedas. The Sanskrit name for Vedic astrology is Jyotisha or Jyotish, and it means "the eye or light of nature". It describes the ability of the astrologer to view people's behaviour as well as projected cycles and outcomes of times and events.
Vedic astrology is linked to other Vedic systems such as Ayurveda for health, Vastu for dwellings, and other philosophies. It is part of a holistic, integrated knowledge system. Vedic astrological calculations are different from what most of us are used to in the Western systems. This type of Eastern astrology is based on sidereal astrology, which is basically in reference to the stars and celestial bodies and their position in relation to the back slipping motion of the Earth, otherwise known as precession of equinoxes.
Ancient texts on Vedic astrology assume the law of karma, which states that a human being lives and works within certain parameters that were created by actions undertaken in previous lives. Thus it is regarded as predictive in nature as it uses methods of predictions to show when the results of these prior actions will come to fruition in the present life.
The History of Vedic Astrology
The fundamentals of Vedic astrology were believed to have been instituted by Brahma, the creator, with the knowledge then being passed down to Rishis and then to man. The current form of Vedic astrology was written several thousand years ago by Maharishi Parashara; however, it could have existed several thousand years earlier than in oral form.
The Purpose of Vedic Astrology
The purpose of Vedic astrology is to avoid problems before they occur. The astrologer uses the tools of this form of astrology to forecast the exact time to promote events in different aspects of life or to pull back, recognising that the indications can point to some obvious serious risk. Followers of Vedic astrology focus more on when things might or might not happen, rather than on psychological matters. Vedic astrology is not fatalistic. Rather, it is intended to point to useful and actionable indications or probabilities that certain behaviours may emerge or specific events could take place over time. It is important to know that the events seen in an astrological chart are not required to happen as they appear. A motivated, sincere person, under the guidance of the astrologer, can make effective changes in their lives.
How Does Vedic Astrology Differ From Western Astrology?
While Vedic and Western astrology share some similarities, such as zodiac signs and planetary positions, there are also many significant differences between the two systems. Firstly, Vedic astrology involves the use of divisional charts that are divided into different segments of life, such as family, work and wealth, while Western astrology utilises a 360-degree chart wheel. Vedic astrologers believe that the Vedas provide the basis for Vedic astrology, while Western astrologers rely on scientific principles to explain how astrology works.
Vedic zodiac signs have more relevance to actual star constellations than do their Western counterparts because Vedic charts use actual fixed stars. The Western chart, on the other hand, uses sun-based signs tilted at twelve degrees each. It's also worth noting that Western astrology does not use these five elements of nature, which are notable in Vedic astrology:
- Water element
- Earth element
- Air element
- Fire element
- Space element
Western astrologers generally believe that Vedic astrology is rooted in ancient India, while Indian astrologers have multiple sources for the belief, including the Vedic literature, which contains religious texts written thousands of years ago. However, according to Vedic scholars, astrological signs have more relevance to actual star constellations than do their western counterparts.
Despite this difference, Vedic astrology is still compatible with Western astrology. In fact, the two systems can be used together to provide a more complete and accurate horoscope reading.
Source: cyberastro.com
Which Type of Astrology Is Right for You?
Both Western and Vedic astrology have benefits that can be useful in different aspects of human life. Western astrology is good for predicting future events, while Vedic astrology can help you understand how your past has influenced your life path number and the events that turn out in your life.
If you're looking for a more all-encompassing system that takes into account both the physical and spiritual worlds, Vedic astrology may be right for you. On the other hand, if your goal lies in understanding yourself and making better decisions, Western astrology might work best for you.
Astrologers can help you better understand why certain things are happening in your life. Whether you use the sidereal zodiac perspective, which is common in Vedic astrology, or the tropical zodiac, which is typical in Western astrology, really depends on your current situation.
Originally published on Aug 18, 2008
