ACVA JOURNAL

VOL. 8 NO. 2 WINTER 2003

I N S I DE T H I S I S S U E

Perspectives on “Debilitated” (Neecha) Planets David A. Goldstein, Ph.D.

Speculations on the Exaltation of the Nodes Kenneth Johnson
Graha Yuddha, Planetary War Andrew Foss
Classical Jyotisha and the Western Mind Penny Farrow
Remedial Measures in Vedic Astrology Gary Gomes
Fate and Destiny vs. Free Will Joni Patry

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ACVA JOURNAL
Vol. 8 No. 2, Winter 2003
P.O. Box 2149
Sedona, AZ 86339 USA
Phone: (928) 282-6595
[email protected]
www.vedicastrology.org
03 Perspectives on “Debilitated” (Neecha) Planets David A. Goldstein, Ph.D. Editorial Board
12 Speculations on the Exaltation of the Nodes Kenneth Johnson Christina Collins Hill
Dennis Flaherty
16 Graha Yuddha, Planetary War Andrew Foss Dr. David Frawley
20 Classical Jyotisha and the Western Mind Penny Farrow Dennis M. Harness, Ph.D.
Edith Hathaway
27 Remedial Measures in Vedic Astrology Gary Gomes James Kelleher
32 Fate and Destiny vs. Free Will Joni Patry William R. Levacy
Managing Editors
ACVA Journal is a publication of the American Council of Vedic Astrology, P.O. Box 2149, Sedona, AZ Dennis M. Harness, Ph.D.
86339, USA. Issues are complimentary for ACVA members, and are available for $5.00 per copy to non- Kenneth Johnson
members. Articles represent the views of their authors, not necessarily those of ACVA. Horoscopes are
Debra Infante
calculated using Lahiri ayanamsa unless otherwise noted.
Potential Contributors: We are looking for top quality, clearly written, introductory to intermediate level Layout & Design
articles. The editors reserve the right to edit manuscripts for clarity. Advertisers: This is a great place to Jane Perini
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2 ACVA Journal 8.2

Perspectives on “Debilitated” (Neecha) Planets:
Psychological & Real Life Manifestations
David A. Goldstein, Ph.D.

Neecha Planets and Hypothesis Defined rejects the planet as it is. We forget about embracing
these energies, accepting them and working with these
Accurate chart interpretation is largely dependent
planets on their own terms. Instead, a negative psycho-
upon determining the strengths and weaknesses of the
logical framework is induced, creating an obstacle or
individual planets and how they influence the specific
barrier between the person and this particular planet’s
natal chart as a whole. During chart analysis, the
energetic expression. Spiritual work, or the soul’s
astrologer often encounters planets situated in the
evolutionary development is not an easy journey, nor is
particular rashi (zodiac sign) of weakest placement,
it a free ride. However, there is usually a choice as to
known as “debilitation” or neecha. Almost immediately,
which direction or path to take in regard to how we
a “red flag” goes up signaling an area of difficulty posed
develop across the lifespan. Consequently, there is an
by that particular planet’s significations, the house it is
interesting “fork in the road” which may develop in
posited, and the houses the planet owns or rules. Use of
regard to dealing with neecha planets: Exit A: Recognize
the term “debilitation” often arouses fear or worry and
the planet as it is on multiple dimensions and focus
therefore it is incumbent upon the astrologer to offer a
intensely on developing or improving that area of life or
thorough explanation for the client’s deeper under-
Exit B: Deny the planet, separate yourself from it, and
standing and to reduce potential anxiety.
avoid those areas signified by the planet at all costs. In
Consider this scenario, perhaps at an ACVA confer-
regard to Exit B, there is actually a great amount of
ence, a few friends are discussing their natal charts. How
psychological energy drain which then poses other
many people boast about their finely placed debilitated
problems for the individual, such as fatigue, self-depre-
planets? Such planetary placements are often viewed as
cation, lack of drive or motivation and other concurrent
an embarrassment or blemish to the chart. Yet, these
psycho-physiological health-related symptoms. Hence,
neecha planets may signal one of the most salient and
therapists and psychologists should be alerted to debili-
motivating factors that exist in the entire horoscope.
tated planets in the natal chart, as these may pose a
These planets psychologically are often treated in
significant diagnostic key to the origin of a particular
isolation, placed in quarantine, while the owner secretly
dilemma or core emotional issue.
hopes that they will not contaminate the rest of the
What follows is a hypothesis about one major puta-
chart. The general tendency is to administer upayes
tive function for debilitated planets in an individual’s life
(remedial measures) to counteract or change the effects
experience. Some examples of how this hypothesis
of these planets for the better. Who wants to encounter
manifests in the charts of famous athletes who possess
pain, suffering or (really do the spiritual work that each
debilitated Mars (in Cancer) are presented.
person is here to do)? So, the tendency is to “fix” these
Each chart is a genuine sacred blue-print for the
planets, not to experience the negativity. (I’m not
soul, which implies that there is a particular meaning
suggesting that there is anything wrong with upayes. In
and purpose to each planetary placement in the chart.
fact, remedial measures are excellent supplements for
In this regard, perhaps the debilitated planet indicates a
strengthening planets.)
particular “deficiency” which is due for improvement
However, there is also a subconscious attitude which
and development in the current lifetime. The

ACVA Journal 8.2 3

hypothesis is as follows: If a chart is otherwise predis- planetary configurations which are said to either “can-
posed to being relatively strong overall, a debilitated cel” or ameliorate the harmful effects attributed to
planet will indicate a particular area of intense focus neecha planets. Views vary on the matter of interpreting
and development due to ripen in this lifetime. Remem- the actual effects of this yoga. Some authors conclude
ber, a hypothesis is an educated guess which has to then be that under neecha bhanga, at best the neecha planet will
substantiated by formal statistical proof. The purpose of confer less harm than it would otherwise create
this writing is to present the proposed theory for consid- (Defouw, H. & Svoboda, R., 1996) 3. The authors also
eration and to demonstrate some applications of the note that under this yoga, the neecha planet is still not
theory. going to function normally. Other astrologers virtually
Broad generalizations/judgments about the indi- discount the influence of this yoga from offering any
vidual planets without COMPLETE ANALYSIS of an benefit, and certainly not raising the neecha planet to a
individual’s ENTIRE CHART, lead to inaccurate conclu- raja yoga status (Braha, J., 2001).4 Braha estimates that
sions. Several factors should be considered, such as the 20% of individuals with neecha bhanga actually gain
presence of benefic or malefic aspects, yogas, the planet’s benefit and that leaves the 80% who don’t experience
nakshatra features, and house placement, ownership, etc. glorious effects of planets in neecha bhanga status.
influencing the planet under analysis. Other planets that Braha concludes that planets attaining neecha bhanga
have no association or aspects with the debilitated planet still indicate significant difficulties in real life experience
may potentially raise the entire chart up to a high status connected to the neecha planet. However, he also
and counteract at least some of the difficulties indicated. recognizes that the sages were likely trying to communi-
It’s particularly critical to consider the overall strength of cate that planets attaining neecha bhanga raja yoga
the lagna, lagnesh (1st house-ruler), the Sun and the status have some specific importance, yet to be fully
Moon. If these other factors are strong, then they may understood.
“prime” or motivate the individual to focus and
strengthen the deficiency of the neecha planet. Hence, a Real-Life Manifestations of Neecha Planets:
planet that is in debility, is not necessarily ruined for all Applications of the Hypothesis
of its significations. Yet, some deficiency or problem There is often a physical or health-related problem
connected to that planet will occur during the given signified by the neecha planet, and/or there will be some
Vimshottari Mahadasa and Bhukti periods, and under concurrent weakness involving one or more of the
stressful transits of the neecha planet. planet’s karakas (significations). For example, debilitated
The following placements constitute planetary Jupiter might confer weakness to the liver or gall blad-
debilitation. Note that the (degree) shown is the point of der, a tendency toward allergies and having one or no
deepest fall. Planets positioned precisely at the deepest children. In the charts of females, problems with finding
degree of fall or closely approaching this degree will be the appropriate spouse might occur since Jupiter is one
in extreme debilitation and will confer significant karaka of the husband. While Venus and the 7th house
difficulties related to that planet in the individual’s life. ruler are the main karakas for one’s spouse, many
However, a planet is still considered to be debilitated if it respected astrologers also consider Jupiter as the karaka
is found at any degree of the fallen sign for that given for the husband since he is traditionally supposed to
planet: Sun in Libra (10o), Moon in Scorpio (03o), Mars offer wisdom and provide for the family’s growth and
in Cancer (28o), Mercury in Pisces (15o) , Jupiter in prosperity.
Capricorn (05o), Venus in Virgo (27o), Saturn in Aries Moreover, the neecha Jupiter individual might be
(20o), Rahu in Scorpio and Ketu in Taurus. more practical, frugal, conservative politically and
financially, less expansive (or less gullible) and less
The Neecha Bhanga Controversy optimistic than others. Since Jupiter also governs good
This essay would be incomplete if the controversial fortune, overall “luck” in life, and finances, these areas
phenomena of neehca bhanga1 and neecha bhanga raja are subject to difficulties when Jupiter is fallen. Finan-
yoga2 were not mentioned. Essentially, there are certain cially, Jupiter in Capricorn also creates an interest in

4 ACVA Journal 8.2

saving money, investing, obtaining better value for Mercury in operation. This same Mercury (ruler of the
items, and being more cautious in spending. In 1st & 4th houses) also hindered his early education,
Capricorn, Jupiter is acting more like Saturn. However, speech development and conferred a series of health
this Jupiter might simultaneously yield an intense problems. Due to the overall high status of his chart,
interest or focus on education, philosophy, law, religion the debilitated Mercury became the focal point and
or spirituality, all with a very pragmatic approach. Sai motivational catalyst for Einstein’s spiritual develop-
Baba has this Jupiter placement, for example. ment. If Mercury is discounted due to its neecha status,
It is accurate to view planets that are in debilitation then the major focus/purpose of this individual’s life
as acting DIFFERENTLY from what would be expected would be ignored. He was far from ignorant, illogical or
as the natural tendency for the particular planet in unintelligent. Einstein’s Mercury simply functioned
question (personal communication with James Kelleher). opposite of its natural tendencies.
Another famous example (involving debilitated Observations through my client database indicate
Mercury), is the well-known chart of Albert Einstein5, that a predominance of individuals with otherwise
who was Gemini rising with Mercury debilitated in the unafflicted debilitated planets, tend to emphasize that
10th house. Mercury is the planet which governs specific area of life signified by the neecha planet. There
intelligence, logic, analysis, writing and communica- are also cases where the debilitated planet is addition-
tions. Sure, this particular Mercury was technically ally under other afflictions and the person still concen-
released from debilitation by its association with a trated on that area, particularly in regard to their
highly exalted Venus and attained neecha bhanga raja chosen vocation. Briefly, some examples of these cases
yoga status. However, the point to be emphasized is involve several teachers, professors and attorney clients
that in Einstein’s case, most of his attention was with Jupiter debilitated. Jupiter is clearly the karaka for
mercurially-focused throughout his lifetime. He education, law, ethics, morals, fairness, philosophy,
achieved the brilliance of Mercury through his perse- judges and the courts. Hence, debilitated Jupiter is not
verance and embracement of Mercury in Pisces. the first chart component one would associate with
Interestingly, it is said that Einstein attributed his attorneys. Why would a debilitated Jupiter choose law
ability to discover hidden scientific truths, to being as a career? One assumption is that he is focused on
comfortable lingering in confusion (until answers improving that inherent deficiency during this particu-
would appear). This state clearly sounds like a Pisces lar incarnation. I’m referring to the resonance of a
“higher frequency” of planetary manifestation which
FIGURE 1. some individuals aspire to, because the rest of the chart
indicates that tendency. One attorney has also steeped
VE 24:49 himself in Hindu philosophy, spiritual practices and he
SA 12:00
ME 10:58
NE 15:41 PL 02:33 AS 19:46 demonstrates honesty and integrity in his dealings with
SU 01:20 people. He fights for truth pragmatically, which is the
Jupiter in Capricorn style. Of course, all attorneys don’t
necessarily have debilitated Jupiter present. This pattern
JU 05:18 Albert Einstein KE 10:33 represents a sub-set of individuals with a particular
March 14, 1879 bent for a legal career which is likely to manifest
11:30 AM differently from other attorneys with different Jupiter
Ulm, Germany
placements. This is just one of several cases of a benefi-
RA 10:33
UR 09:06 cial manifestation of a debilitated planet raising itself to
MA 04:44
a higher level, or overcoming some of it’s deficiency.
From one perspective, perhaps practicing law is one
type of “remedial measure” for improving the neecha
MO 22:25
Jupiter. Jupiter in Capricorn is certainly imminently
practical!

ACVA Journal 8.2 5

Famous Athletes with Neecha Mars professional football history to record 50,000 career-
The origin of the above hypothesis stemmed from the passing yards (41,000 yards in the Canadian league),
observation of several athletes’ charts with debilitated joining a list that includes venerated quarterbacks
Mars. This situation poses an enigma: how can an including Dan Marino, Warren Moon and John Elway.
individual with debilitated Mars (the karaka for sports), He received the Canadian Football League’s Most
become a highly successful and famous athlete? A scan Outstanding Player award an unprecedented six times
through Lois Rodden’s databank produced 139 profes- and he also won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in
sional football players with neecha Mars. Several highly college football in 1984. Moreover, Flutie participates in
successful tennis champions with neecha Mars were also a wide variety of sports. He was invited to baseball
noted including: Serena Williams, Jim Courier, Todd batting practice with the San Diego Padres and threw
Martin, and Lindsay Davenport. Recall that Mars is the the ceremonial first pitch in 2001 against the Atlanta Red
main karaka for brothers, sports, athletics, physical Sox. He’s also skated with the Boston Bruins and plays
strength, power, endurance, motivation, courage, speed, basketball at the local university.
passion and sex, adventurousness, war, competition, Flutie obtained college degrees in both computer
risk-taking tendencies and aggression. Mars is even science and communications at Boston College. He is
doubly a karaka for football, an aggressive sport played married and has two children, a girl and a boy. The
by a “band of brothers.” To help answer this question, youngest child (his son Doug, Jr.) was diagnosed with
two cases are presented below, one from professional autism. It is also reported that he is very devoted to his
football and one from professional tennis. wife and children and he set up a foundation for helping
children with autism (Jupiter in the 7th). Flutie is an
Doug Flutie: Quarterback accomplished drummer, another Mars signification. He
Figure 2 depicts the natal chart for Doug Flutie,6 a formed a rock band with his brother who is also a
successful quarterback currently a team member of the professional wide-receiver. Flutie was invited to play the
San Diego Chargers. His birth data obtained from Lois drums with several rock bands including: the Dave
Rodden’s Astrodatabank indicate he was born on a Matthews Band, Aerosmith and Bon Jovi. It’s hypoth-
Tuesday (ruled by Mars), October 23, 1962, 3:30 A.M. esized that Mars and especially Mars-Rahu, figure
EDT, Baltimore, MD.. Flutie is one of just six players in prominently with “rock music (bands),” due to the

FIGURE 2.

Ne Ju(R) Ra

Pl
JU(R) 09:32 RA 11:02 Ma
Doug Flutie
MA 12:28 As
October 23, 1962 Doug Flutie
3:30 AM Dasamsa Chart
Baltimore, MD MO 09:08
SA 11:34 UR 10:53 Ven(R)
KE 11:02 PL 18:07
AS 18:18

Su
SU 06:04 Mo
VE(R) 04:17 ME 17:56 Ke Me
NE 19:22
Ur
Sa

6 ACVA Journal 8.2

intrinsic nature of these planets and Rahu’s amplifica- health problems for Flutie, Sr. as well. For the second
tion of Mars energy. Hence, most of Flutie’s activities child (3rd from the 5th), the 7th house should be analyzed.
are associated with Mars and revolve around this This technique of “derivatives” has been described by
planet’s expression. many respected astrologers. The rationale is that the 3rd
The chart reveals Leo (Purva Phalguni nakshatra) house is generically associated with younger siblings.
rising with 12th lord Moon in the first house. Mars, the The 5th house represents the oldest child in the parent’s
yogakarka for Leo rising (as ruler of the 4th & 9th houses) chart. Therefore, three houses from the 5th house (the 7th
resides in the 12th (dusthana) house at 12o28’ debilitated house) indicates the next youngest sibling or the second
in the sign of Cancer (Pushya). Note that Mars is also in youngest child. The third youngest child would be seen
a very close conjunction with Rahu 11035’ and Mars from the 9th house, etc. I have used this technique in my
receives another malefic aspect from Saturn. Moreover, practice and obtained accurate interpretive results across
Mars is debilitated in the Dasamsa chart as well. The a large sample of charts.
only technical release from debilitation is due to Jupiter’s Note that Saturn (7th ruler) is 12th from the 7th (tightly
strong location (7th house) in an angle from both the conjunct Ketu) and receives the malefic aspects of Mars-
Moon and Lagna. Recall that Mars in Cancer is Jupiter’s Rahu strongly. Mars also aspects the 7th house itself.
sign of exaltation. Overall it appears that Mars is quite However, Jupiter (karaka for children) gets the nice
afflicted in this chart. lunar aspect, while also sustaining a Mars aspect and 12th
The powerful Gaja Kesari Yoga created by Jupiter’s house dusthana influence. Therefore, he experiences
aspect to the Moon (virtually exact by degree) cannot be both the benefits (good marriage & having two chil-
ignored. Jupiter also aspects the debilitated Sun, the dren) and difficulties (child with autism, health prob-
lagnesh. However, Saturn and Mars malefically aspect lems) associated with such planetary placements.
the Sun. Venus, which rules Purva Phalguni is strong in The Mars-Rahu conjunction is commonly perceived
the 4th house aspecting the 10th house of career, which by astrologers as a purely afflicted combination. The
explains his interest in music. Acting, entertainment and rationale has to do with associating Rahu with Saturn-
fame are often associated with this nakshatra.7 like energy, and Mars and Saturn are known bitter
It’s worthy to note that planets in the 12th house tend enemies. The other side of Mars-Rahu, which is easily
to become stronger in expressing their nature (Hopke, T. overlooked in client’s charts, is that Rahu propels Mars
(Nalini), 2001.)8 Also, Rahu’s conjunction with Mars will with the force of a launched missile! Rahu amplifies
intensify Mars expression powerfully. This appears to be Mars vigorously and confers intense physical power,
a common configuration in several athlete’s charts motivation, fearlessness, drive for success, virility and
(including Arnold Schwarzennegger with Mars-Rahu in an increased interest/obsession with Mars activities.
the 12th). Note that Mars’ dispositor, the Moon, is very These include sports, competition, racing, risk-taking,
well supported in Flutie’s chart. war, aviation (pilots), technical endeavors, sex, passion
His chart reflects a high degree of intelligence with a and ambitions. This combination creates an insatiable
strong Moon, strong 5th house-ruler, and exalted desire for all things governed by Mars. For this reason,
Mercury (quite close to its highest degree of exaltation). Mars-Rahu is commonly observed in the charts of
His two college majors clearly reflect his ability with successful athletes.
computers, communications and language (all Mercury Currently, Flutie is in the Mars Mahadasa which
karakas). He’ll probably become a T.V. announcer or began January 2, 2001 just after he turned age 38. On
personality once he retires from his football career (note June 19, 2002, he entered the Mars/Jupiter period. In
Venus’ aspect to the 10th house of career & Venus’ aspect March of 2001, he signed a new six year contract with
to the Ascendant of the Dasamsa). the San Diego Chargers. During the 2001 season, he set a
The extremely tight conjunction of Saturn to Ketu in new career record with 3,464 passing yards, a historical
the 6th house, and Mars aspect to Saturn reflect a strong high for the team. Thus, his Mars Mahadasa has brought
competitive nature, as well as the problems that his new career opportunities and expansion to date. His
younger child manifests. This is likely to create certain contract is set to expire just before he enters the 18 yr.

ACVA Journal 8.2 7

Rahu Mahadasa. Will he sustain a serious injury in FIGURE 3.
the Mars/Saturn period after 5/26/03? What might
this unusually expressive Mars deliver during the next
6 years? AS 09:33
Perhaps when an individual reaches the Mahadasa of
a neecha planet which has also been strongly emphasized
and developed before the cycle commences, the mahadasa
itself may offer the rewards associated with that planet? RA 06:08
Perhaps, some negative karma is resolved by taking such Serena Williams MA 21:58
September 26, 1981
actions to develop the areas signified by the neecha 8:28 PM
planet? In other words, by developing that planet with Saginaw, MI
one’s own efforts, some amount of karmic debt is KE 06:08 MO 26:47

fulfilled. In turn, the individual realizes some profound

experiences and achievements during that planetary
SU 10:12
period. Some amount of suffering or difficulty is likely UR 03:39 ME 06:03 SA 18:06
to occur simultaneously, but the individual may also NE 28:38 VE 22:43 JU 23:26
PL 29:51
experience the rewards of hard work and perseverance.
The main point to emphasize is that Flutie’s Mars is
quite afflicted and does not gain much relief. However,
the powerful Jupiter-Moon Gaja Kesari yoga has helped
Ne Ra
enormously and the exalted Mercury has conferred
Mo Ve
much strength to an otherwise afflicted chart. Yet, he has
taken this neecha Mars to such successful heights, that
this Mars expression cannot be ignored as being highly
salient in this individual’s life. His entire life has revolved Pl As
around football and sports. Doug Flutie’s chart repre- Serena Williams
sents a fine example of how an individual can focus his Dasamsa Chart
energy, using the stronger planets of his chart (Mercury, Ur
Moon & Jupiter) to strengthen and develop the most Su
afflicted planet, Mars. In Doug Flutie’s case, he chose
Exit A, to develop and embrace the Mars in a higher
manifestation. Me Sa
Ma
Ju Ke
Serena Williams: Tennis Success Story
Figure 3 depicts the natal chart of Serena Williams9, a
highly successful professional tennis player, currently
ranked number two in the world of women’s tennis. Her ment was reportedly at the age of four. She then pro-
next-eldest sister, Venus, is currently ranked number ceeded to win the next 46 of the 49 tournaments played.
one. Serena’s birth data, obtained from Lois Rodden’s In 1991, the Williams’ family moved to Palm Beach
databank, indicates she was born on September 26, Gardens, Florida where the two sisters enrolled in a
1981, Saginaw, Michigan at 8:28 P.M. EDT. Serena is the formal tennis academy.
youngest of five sisters and the next oldest sibling is the At the ripe age of 14, Serena turned professional,
famous Venus Williams, also known for her highly which created some controversy. In 1999, Serena was
successful tennis career. Their parents were instrumental ranked 21 in the world after winning her first Grand
in grooming the two sisters for their future tennis Slam title. She won every game played against the top 5
careers from a very early age. Serena’s first tennis tourna- ranked women tennis players that year. Then in 2002

8 ACVA Journal 8.2

her rank moved up to number 2 in the world. Serena She also has a Malavaya Yoga (Venus in Libra in the
th
won her second Grand Slam winning the US Open, 7 house), getting an aspect from Mars. This Venus
Wimbledon, French and Italian Open tournaments. confers attractiveness and magnetism as it aspects her
Her elevated level of success in professional tennis is Lagna. Note that this Malavya Yoga, Venus, is also the
a proven fact. 10th house ruler from the Moon, another indicator of
The chart reveals an Aries lagna (Aswini nakshatra), heightened success. This strong Venus will also play an
with Moon in the 5th house in Uttara Phalguni. Neecha extremely important role in her life, as all Mahaparusha
Mars at 21o59’ (Ashlesha nakshatra) is conjunct Rahu at Yoga planets do. It is also responsible for her interest in
6o in the 4th house. Note that Mars is the lagnesh for the entertainment industry, advertising, fashion and
Aries rising and goes to the kendra 4th house, technically luxury (along with her Uttara Phalguni Moon). It’s this
receiving release of debilitation forming neecha banga strong Venus which allows others to appreciate the
raja yoga. Mars-Rahu is also 12th from the Moon, as was sweeter side of her personality. The Venus in Libra
seen in the previous example. It’s also worthy to note harmoniously balances the ruthless, intensely competi-
that the 10th house ruler Saturn, combines in the 6th tive undertones suggested by the 6th house, Aries lagna
house with Jupiter, the 9th house ruler. It’s the good and Mars in this chart. It’s interesting that her sister
association of Jupiter with the 10th house ruler that (probably her best friend) is literally named, “Venus.”
reflects career success. For Aries rising, Saturn is not a Considering the above features and examination of
benefic planet, even though it rules the 10th house. the all-important neecha Mars, once again we see that
Therefore, even though the Saturn-Jupiter form a raja the weakest planet in this chart is the neecha Mars with
yoga, this combination alone would not necessarily its Rahu conjunction. Mars is the lagnesh, so it is quite
confer outstanding results. In Serena’s case, Jupiter is important to understand his function in this chart. Any
promoting her outstanding career success. planets aspecting the lagnesh are quite influential on the
While Mars and the 5th house tend to be the main personality. In this case, Rahu is influencing Mars,
areas to examine for sports, in practice, Jupiter also although they are not too close by degree and are in
serves as another sports karaka and should be consid- different nakshatras. The competitive, driven and
ered. Jupiter rules Sagittarius which is clearly associated relentless streak is easily seen. However, the problems
with outdoor activities, sports and risk-taking. In associated with neecha Mars in the 4th house are not
Serena’s chart, Jupiter as a sports karaka, is associated quite as obvious, yet are very real. The combination of
with the 10th house career planet, in the 6th house of this 4th house Mars position with Rahu, the waning
daily work. Moon and the 6th house Sun-Saturn conjunction
The 6th house rules competition, ability to defeat one’s indicate a propensity for dissatisfaction, unhappiness
enemies and opponents, as well as daily work efforts and and possible acute episodes of depression (particularly if
health matters. Natural malefic planets in the 6th house she loses a competition). The 4th house informs us about
confer a powerful ability to overcome enemies, at all her ability to gain happiness in life, her connection with
costs.4 Serena has the Sun (mild malefic), Saturn and her mother, early childhood and education. The neecha
Jupiter all in the 6th house. (Recall Flutie has Saturn-Ketu Mars-Rahu placement in the 4th indicates that she has a
in the 6th). Serena’s Aries lagna is ruled by competitive difficult time finding happiness in life. This combination
Mars, magnified by its conjunction with Rahu. There- is the source of her discontent, even though Mars is
fore, her focus in life is directed toward defeating her technically in a neecha banga raja yoga.
opponents and she is naturally skilled at accomplishing The Moon is the dispositor of Mars and it forms a
this. As an upachya (growing) house, malefic planets in Papakarteri Yoga (Moon situated between Mars-Rahu
the 6th tend to flourish and improve over time. Accord- and Sun-Saturn). In addition, the Moon is waning and
ing to Braha,4 the greater the number of malefic planets is almost a dark new Moon, features which weaken the
in the 6th house, the more intensely competitive the Moon considerably. Therefore, her sense of happiness
individual seems to be. This observation certainly holds and contentment in life are likely to be marred, even
true for Doug Flutie and Serena Williams, among others. though her worldly success is heightened. The fact that

ACVA Journal 8.2 9

the Moon goes to the trinal 5th house is, however, a Summary and Future Direction
strong positive placement and this helps strengthen
In sum, Serena Williams’ chart is yet another example
Mars. Moon in the 5th in yet another indicator of her
of how a neecha planet can become the focal point for
love of sports. Also, Mercury is strong in the 7th house
an individual’s life, if other chart factors support that
connected to the powerful Venus, which indicates good
tendency. It is crucial to consider the chart in TOTAL-
intellectual ability. Mercury is also a karaka for the
ITY, before forming a conclusion about how a “debili-
mother and the 4th house features. The deeper karmic
tated” planet will manifest for an individual. Consider
connection to her mother is seen through the Moon’s
the viewpoint that an otherwise unafflicted debilitated
(ruler of the 4th) placement in the 5th house
planet can actually motivate the individual to strive
(poorvapunya).
harder in a particular area and to try to improve what
Again, Serena Williams’ chart is another example of
may be a deficiency in the personality or previous life
how an individual with other strong planetary place-
experience. It takes a particularly strong ego or evolved
ments, takes the neecha planet and directs her attention
personality to embrace the neecha planet and to recog-
at improving or developing that sphere of life.
nize this area as one in need of improvement and
Athleticism is a particularly healthy outlet for Mars
development. Hence, debilitated planets need not strike
energy. This is also the chart of a natural warrior, of a
a chord of fear. The individual knows on some intuitive
person who thrives on competition and challenge. The
or conscious level, that he needs to develop in that
Mars-Rahu conjunction can also create perfectionist
sphere dictated by the weaker planet. Therefore, the
tendencies, especially with the concurrent Sun and
person focuses his attention and behavior on enhancing
Saturn-Jupiter in Virgo’s house.
areas governed by the neehca planet.
The Dasamsa chart also houses Mars in the 4th, but
Perhaps, our conception of neecha planets may
the lagna is Cancer. In this chart, the Moon (L-1) is in
become broadened to include the possibility that these
the 10th house in Aries, the sign of Mars. Mars aspects
planets represent life areas of great importance for that
the Moon and the 10th house (it’s own house), indicating
individual to advance and develop over the lifespan.
a career involving Mars significations. In the Dasamsa,
While the charts presented are those of famous athletes,
Mars appears quite strong. Note that Jupiter is also very
this same pattern involving neecha planets is also
strong in Sagittarius (its own sign) in the Dasama. Sun
recognized in the charts of other individuals who are not
and Venus are also in their own signs, reflecting very
quite as famous. It is important to learn to decipher
strong career dharma.
which charts with neecha planets are likely to advance
It’s interesting to note that Serena entered the Mars
the energies associated with that planet and which charts
Mahadasa on 9-5-97. But, it was during her Mars/Jupiter
will not support it. Strong supporting yogas and other
cycle as of 2-20-99 that she excelled in her early tennis
enhancing aspects to the Moon, lagna, lagnesh and 9th
career and won her first Grand Slam title. Recall, Jupiter
and 10th houses and their ruling planets appear to be key
conjuncts Saturn, the 10th house ruler, an important
elements. Even though there are likely to be simulta-
career planet for Aries rising. Hence, the Mars cycle does
neous difficulties involving the neecha planet, that does
not appear to be disturbing her vocational success,
not necessarily indicate that the planet has nothing
which is a similar effect seen in Doug Flutie’s chart
important or beneficial to offer the individual. The
previously. In fact, the Mars period is clearly elevating
neecha planet may actually be the most important focal
her success to a high degree. Currently she is in Mars/
point of the entire chart.
Ketu (as of 3-4-02). This year, her rank jumped to
The athlete with debilitated Mars directs his attention
number 2 in the world. Note that Ketu is in the 10th
on strengthening that prowess and power. It’s the intense
(upachaya) house and gets aspects from Mars and
focus, underlying motivation and consistent effort
Jupiter. Ketu is in the sign of Saturn, the 10th house
which creates exceptional achievement in any sphere.
ruling planet indicating career status.
This has been demonstrated in the charts of Doug Flutie
and Serena Williams. It is hoped that the proposed

10 ACVA Journal 8.2

hypothesis will be examined in greater depth through in Psychoneuroimmunology, Molecular Cancer Biology and
the statistical study of a significant number of charts. Health Psychology are published in several prominent journals.
Perhaps, our understanding of neecha planets may Currently, he has an active private practice offering consultations,
tutorials and classes in Vedic Astrology, based in Austin, Texas.
become broadened to include their potential for intense
His passions include writing and research in Vedic Astrology. Dr.
focus and development in the spheres governed by
Goldstein is also a faculty member and certified tutor with ACVA.
that planet. He combines his expertise in Psychology with Vedic Astrology to
enhance the depth and clarity of his chart analyses. He can be
REFERENCES & FOOTNOTES: reached at:

1 Neecha Bhanga: refers to cancellation of the debilitative effects Vedic Astrology Institute of Central Texas, P.O. Box 341015,
of the fallen planet. This does not turn the planet into an exalted Austin, Texas 78734; Phone: 512-263-9255;
planet. It merely is supposed to reduce to some degree, the negative Email: [email protected]
effects of the neecha planet. Neecha Bhanga is formed by any of Website: www.Dgoldsteinphd.com
several states including: 1) The planet ruler of the sign occupied by
the debilitated planet is on an angle from the Moon or Lagna; 2)
The ruler of the house holding the neecha planet is exalted; 3) An
exalted planet occupies the same house as the neecha planet; 4)
The planet which would be exalted in the sign of the neecha planet
is on an angle from the Moon or Lagna; 5) The planet ruling the
sign of the neecha planet also aspects that house/planet holding the
neecha planet; 6) The neecha planet is retrograde. There are a few
other conditions in which neecha bhanga can occur. The reader is
referred to the texts below for additional details. See also, Brihat
Parasara Hora Shastra, Saravali’s texts, and Ernst Wilhelm’s chapter
on neecha bhanga in Vault of the Heavens, p. 87.
2 Neecha Bhanga Raja Yoga: refers to cancellation of debilitation
and is supposed to create the effects of a Raja Yoga. This occurs
only when the debilitated planet is located on an angle (kendra) or
trine (trikona) from either the Lagna or Moon.
3 Defouw, Hart & Svoboda, Robert (1996). Light on Life: An
Introduction to the Astrology of India, New York, Arkana Penguin
Books.
4 Braha, James (2001). The Art & Practice of Ancient Hindu
Astrology: Nine Intimate Sessions Between Teach and Student,
Florida, Hermetician Press.
5 Einstein, Albert: Birth Data Rated AA by Lois Rodden: March
14, 1879, Ulm Germany, 11:30 A.M. LMT –0:40.
6 Flutie, Doug: Birth Data Rated A by Lois Rodden: October 23,
1962, Baltimore, MD, 3:30 A.M. E.D.T.
7 Harness, Dennis (1999). The Nakshatras: The Lunar Mansions
of Vedic Astrology, Lotus Press, Wisconsin.
8 Hopke, Tom (Nalini) (2001). The Divine Path of Prediction: A
Summer in the Life of a Vedic Astrologer, Florida, I See Publishing.
9 Williams, Serena: Birth Data Rated AA by Lois Rodden:
September 26, 1981, Saginaw, MI, 8:28 P.M. E.D.T.

David A. Goldstein, Ph.D. is a professional/credentialed Vedic

Astrologer, who received his doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology
from the University of Miami, in Florida. His past research studies

ACVA Journal 8.2 11

 IN THE DRAGON’S MOUTH
Speculations on the Exaltation of the Nodes
Kenneth Johnson

F
ew issues in Vedic astrology are more often tion to the Moon (whom they attempt to swallow),
debated than the question of the Nodes’ exalta- because the Moon is exalted in Taurus.
tion signs. First of all, one may wonder why they But what of the Gemini and Sagittarius polarity?
should have exaltation signs at all. Rahu and Ketu rule Some would argue that this attribution isn’t properly
no signs. In a celestial world where even the lame servant Vedic at all. The idea that Rahu exalts in Gemini while
Saturn has his houses (farthest away from the Sun King’s Ketu exalts in Sagittarius is first found in the writings of
house of Leo and the Moon Queen’s house of Cancer), early medieval Arabic astrologers, and passes from
the Nodes have no home at all. They are the wild-eyed thence into the medieval Western tradition. But as
beggars at the gates. They are the God-intoxicated Robert Hand has pointed out,3 the Arabs got most of
ascetics in the jungle. They drift like the wind – which their astrology from the Persians, and therein lies the
is, in fact, one of Rahu’s symbols. problem. All the early Persian (i.e. Zoroastrian) astro-
And yet it has always been asserted that somehow logical records were destroyed during the Muslim
there must be exaltation signs for the Moon’s Nodes. conquest. When something anomalous or original
The only question is: Which ones? appears as “Persian,” we really have no idea where it
Hart deFouw and Robert Svoboda have ably came from. Persia, of course, lies in between Babylon
summarized the confusion.1 Most jyotishis, following and India along the great cultural conduit of the Silk
Parashara, hold that Rahu is exalted in Taurus while Road. In other words, its true cultural history (at least in
Ketu is exalted in Scorpio. Others place the exaltation of terms of astrology and other occult sciences) is buried
Rahu and Ketu in Gemini and Sagittarius respectively. beneath the desert sands of time, and all is a mystery.
A few assert that both Nodes are exalted in Scorpio and And yet the idea of a Gemini/Sagittarius exaltation
debilitated in Taurus. for the Nodes makes powerful symbolic and mythic
The logic of these attributions is sometimes hard to sense, and has its roots in the visible sky.
make out. For example, there is no particular symbolic First, let us envision the way the ancients looked at
or astronomical reason for the Rahu in Taurus/Ketu in the sky. They tracked the progress of the planets along
Scorpio concept. In the end, this attribution rests the ecliptic, whereupon lie the signs of the zodiac. This
entirely upon tradition, as embodied by Parashara. If “circle of life” (the Greek meaning of the word zodiac)
one believes that the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra was often envisioned as a great river encircling the
should be treated as an infallible sacred text, one will world. It symbolized the year (it is the path of the Sun),
accept the idea that Taurus and Scorpio represent the and hence the cycle of human existence itself.
nodal exaltation signs. If not, then one is likely to Another powerful “symbol in the sky” is the Milky
question the attribution. Way. While it is not on the ecliptic and hence plays no
As deFouw and Svoboda argue, the concept of both role in astrology as we know it, it was nonetheless of great
Nodes finding their exaltation in Scorpio makes some mythic and symbolic importance to almost all ancient
symbolic sense.2 The scheme of exaltations and debilita- peoples. Most often it is the path of souls, the road taken
tions is based upon opposed planetary pairs (Sun and by the spirits of departed ancestors. There is reason to
Saturn, Mercury and Venus, Mars and Jupiter). A believe that it had this same symbolism in the Vedas.
Scorpio exaltation places the Nodes in symbolic opposi- If you are looking at the sky, you will notice that the

12 ACVA Journal 8.2

Milky Way crosses the path of the zodiac or ecliptic in two the constellation Orion, which, in Vedic myth, represents
places. These places are Gemini and Sagittarius. Hence Prajapati, the World Maker, and thus a conduit for the
myths and legends all over the world perceive these two creation of life itself. Similarly, the Mayan Creation Myth
signs as a bridge between worlds, a magical place where asserts that the universe as we know it was born from a
the circle of life crosses the path of the ancestors. “crack” in the belt of Orion. In ancient Hawaii, it was
Beyond that, these two signs represent the axis of the believed that children born between the two famous
Galactic Center. The center of the Milky Way galaxy “birthing stones” on the island of Kauai were the highest
itself lies (from an earth-centered observer’s view) in and most sacred of the nobility; my Native Hawaiian
early Sagittarius, while its opposite number, the “anti- teachers inform me that the birthing stones symbolize
galactic center,” lies in Gemini. the twin stars of Gemini, Castor and Pollux, for this is
In his recent book Galactic Alignment,4 independent where the ancestors re-enter the world.
scholar John Major Jenkins has recently drawn attention The opposite “bridge,” in Sagittarius, is likewise of
to the importance of the galactic axis in many ancient primary importance in myth. Visually, what we see is a
spiritual traditions (including the Vedic tradition). He “dark hole,” a black channel in the brilliant white cloud
goes on to assert that the Arabs and Persians regarded the of the Milky Way. Astronomers call it “the Great Rift”.
Nodes as being exalted in Gemini and Sagittarius because The Maya envisioned it as the gateway to the
this represents the galactic axis. Otherworld – a fitting corollary to the black,
It is clear that the ancients somehow understood that Otherworldly gateway which is Ketu. But if the Great
these “bridges between the worlds” also constituted an Rift represented death, it also represented birth. After all,
axis of creative/destructive energy at the galactic level, it is a “bridge” between one world and the next. The
for many of the world’s mythologies attest to this Maya saw it as a birth canal as well as a road to the Other-
concept as well. Gemini, for example, is dominated by world, and a related Aztec myth tells us that this is the

K
enneth Johnson, mythologist and astrologer,
provides us with a colorful introduction to these
“mansions of the moon.” The lunar mansions
are introduced and explained as an entire
system or astrological paradigm, and each mansion is
vividly described so that the readers, even those with
only the most basic knowledge of astrology, can come to
understand their own birth mansions. The second part of
the book explores the mysteries of the lunar mansions and
leads the readers upon a journey through ancient myths
and stories to reveal how the mansions embody the life
cycle of an archaic Goddess. Beyond that, they constitute
an authentic “calendar of the stars” which is not only in
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ACVA Journal 8.2 13

place of Snake Woman who gave birth to all the stars. FIGURE 1.
Snake Woman may remind us of Kali, whose
nakshatra “home” lies in the Galactic Center. The
nakshatra tradition in many ways appears to support the RA 29:33
idea that Rahu and Ketu have their greatest power in
Gemini and Sagittarius. While Mrigashira is perhaps
closer to the actual anti-galactic center than Ardra, it
should be noted that Ardra is part and parcel of the
Brittany Spears
myth of Prajapati the World Maker, and that Ardra is
ruled by Rahu, while the actual nakshatra of the Galactic December 2, 1981
Center, Mula, is ruled by Ketu. 1:30 AM CST
MO 18:47 Mahon, MS MA 29:40
There is a corollary idea here, which is: Since the Nodes VE 01:30
mark the cycle of eclipses, it follows that eclipses are always
more powerful when they occur along the Galactic Axis.
This also makes good symbolic sense. An eclipse is, by ME 11:49 AS 09:47
KE 29:33 JU 07:24
its very nature, a sandhi point, or juncture between SU 16:26 SA 25:40
worlds. During an eclipse, ordinary reality “blacks out”
for a while, and ancient people saw such times as mom-
ents when the Otherworld (and all its inhabitants) could
cross the bridge between the planes. What more powerful that if one uses the Mean Node rather than the True
place for such an event than along the natural “bridge of Node, they actually show up in Cancer and Capricorn!
souls,” the spot where the Soul Road of the Milky Way Perhaps a more cogent example may be found in the
crosses the symbolic world plane of the ecliptic? horoscope of poet and men’s advocate Robert Bly
This is all very powerful in terms of myth and sym- (Chart 2), whose Nodes are closer to the mark, with
bolism, but the final question is: Does it work? Let us Rahu in Gemini in the Eighth and Ketu in Sagittarius in
examine a few horoscopes which suggest the power of the Second. For most of his life, Bly was as quiet as any
the Nodes when placed in Gemini and Sagittarius. public figure could be. Ensconced upon his farm in
One of the most visible pop stars of recent years is Minnesota, he shied away from academia, preferring to
Britney Spears (Chart 1), whose horoscope contains support his “habit” of writing poetry with translation
Rahu in Gemini in the Tenth House, with Ketu in work (notably the mystical Persian poet Rumi). Until he
Sagittarius in the Fourth. It is commonly asserted that was “swallowed” by the mouth of his own personal
Rahu Dasha may bring “sudden and unusual fame,” dragon, his most visible public action had occurred in
though the majority of individuals experience little of the late 60s (the dasha of his Moon in Cancer in the
this in life, and very few indeed to the extent that we see Ninth), when he became “poetically” active in the anti-
here. Britney went into Rahu Dasha during her war movement.
mouseketeer days, and is still in the midst of it. Her Bly entered his Rahu Dasha in 1979. By the time he
Rahu in Gemini in the Tenth raised her to the status of reached Rahu-Ketu and Rahu-Venus in 1990 (and note
a world-wide icon almost overnight, which certainly that Venus and Ketu are closely conjunct), he skyrock-
suggests that her Rahu is far more powerful than most. eted to fame as the author of Iron John,5 a book which
This fame has been accompanied by a typically Rahu encouraged men to discover their “inner wild man.” (A
type notoriety, for her career has been dogged with more suitable Rahu topic can hardly be imagined.) The
rumors and scandals which rightfully belong in super- poet of peace was suddenly the advocate of wildness. Men
market tabloids and hence will not be detailed here. eagerly flocked to him, beating on drums and proclaim-
And yet it could be argued that this is not altogether ing their new-found ferocity, while feminists attacked
the best example one could find. In fact, although him and suggested that Iron John should “sink in the
Britney’s Nodes are in the right signs, they are quite far mud” of the pond from which, in the myth, he emerged.
from the actual galactic axis. It must even be admitted Let us turn, for the moment, from personalities to

14 ACVA Journal 8.2

 FIGURE 2. the World Maker. Ketu, of course, stood precisely on the
United States Ascendant, closely conjunct Mars, in its own
nakshatra of Mula. It is, of course, Mula which marks
MA 13:22 RA 14:20 the Galactic Center, with its symbolism of the Dark
Mother and its visual poetry of the Great Rift in the
Milky Way – gateway to the Underworld, birth canal for
the emergence of new life out of the womb of destruction.
JU 01:49 MO 28:15 The question of the exaltation signs of the Moon’s
Robert Bly
Nodes will probably never be settled for once and for all.
December 23, 1926
It will probably always be a topic of lively debate in the
7:20 AM CST
art of jyotish. But this writer, for one, cannot help but be
MO 18:47 Madison, MN
VE 01:30 impressed by the awesome symbolic – and actual –
power of the Dragon’s Head and Tail along the axis of
the center of our galaxy.
VE 15:53 SA 09:31
KE 14:20 ME 19:00
SU 08:08 AS 27:50 1 deFouw, Hart, and Robert Svoboda, Light on Life: An Introduction
to the Astrology of India (London, Penguin Books, 1996), p. 61.
2 Ibid.
3 Hand, Robert, Chronology of the Astrology of the Middle East and
the West by Period (n.p., ARHAT, n.d.), p. 34.
politics in order to illustrate the extraordinary – and 4 Rochester, VT, Bear & Co., 2002.
sometimes devastating – power that the Nodes have 5 Reading, MA, Addison-Wesley Publishing Co., 1990.
while in Gemini and Sagittarius. The Kelleher chart for
the United States (Chart 3) shows the Ascendant at 8 Kenneth Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts in the study of religions
degrees of Sagittarius, very close to the Galactic Center. from California State University Fullerton. He is the author and
If we turn to the standard chart for the attack on the co-author of numerous books, including Mansions of the Moon:
The Lost Zodiac of the Goddess, Mythic Astrology: Archetypal
World Trade Center (Chart 4), the significance of the
Powers in the Horoscope, and Jaguar Wisdom: An Introduction to
Nodes transiting the galactic axis becomes all too the Mayan Calendar. Ken has also served as the editor for a
tragically apparent. Rahu was at 8 degrees of Gemini, in number of works on Vedic astrology, and is currently the managing
his own nakshatra of Ardra – the nakshatra which, as we editor of the ACVA Journal. He lives on the island of Kaua’i, and
have already pointed out, symbolizes the destruction of divides his time between writing, teaching, and practicing
astrology. He can be contacted at [email protected].

MA 00:40 MO 04:13
VE 12:26
JU 15:12 SA 20:52 RA 08:23
SU 22:38 JU 17:42

ME (R) 03:26 VE 24:31

MO 07:14 USA Chart RA 16:51 Attack on WTC
July 4, 1776 (North Tower)
September 11, 2001
6:30 PM LMT
8:48 AM EST
Philadelphia, PA Manhattan, NY SU 24:58
KE 16:51

KE 08:23 ME 20:24
ASC 08:50 SA 24:04
MA 07:34 ASC 20:52

ACVA Journal 8.2 15

 Graha Yuddha, Planetary War
Andrew Foss

P
lanetary war is one of those topics where there one that is covered, faint or devoid of brilliance. One that is
are different opinions and even confusion, so I rough colourless, struck down (Vidhvasta), [and] situated
felt it would be helpful to mention the different to the South is utterly vanquished (Vijita). One situated to
views and give the teachings from the classical texts the north, having brilliancy, large, is the victor (Jayin) –
along with a discussion of an interesting and well- and even [if it is] to the South, if powerful (Balin). Even
known example. when close, if both are brilliant it is a conjunction
Graha Yuddha is a clear example of observational (Samagama): if the two are both very small it is Kuta*, if
astronomy leading astrology. The ancients had a won- struck down it is [termed] conflict (Vigraha). Venus is
derful clear view of the stars night after night. Whenever generally the victor, whether situated to the North or the
I go to India, especially in the rural areas, I am struck by South. [*NB Kuta has numerous meanings including
the beauty and clarity of the night sky. For one thing, the fraud, a trick and a concealed weapon].
temperature encourages one to be outside at night, The message is clear. If one Graha looks dominant
which is not always the case in Europe or North visually as they meet, then it is treated as the winner. The
America. Ancient India had large cities and there would relative position above (North) or visually below
have been many fires, but nothing like the light pollu- (South) seems to get the main consideration, but if the
tion that our modern cities throw out. Thus, everyone lower Graha is more powerful – brighter, etc. – then it
would see what was happening in the stars. The Grahas can still be taken as the winner. The Samagama (literally
are like kings, and when one was seen approaching close ‘going together’) conjunction between two bright
to another, some conflict would be expected. The victory planets is mentioned as something different from the
would be judged on the obvious considerations like the classic Yuddha where one is destroyed by the other. This
relative brightness and position of the planets involved. may be the same idea as expressed by VarahaMihir as
It is no wonder that there is no war with the luminaries, discussed below.
as they are so much bigger and brighter than the others. Kalidasa in Chapter 2, verse 17 of Uttara Kalamrita
Clearly, the small planets have no chance of competition. (UK) says, When two planets are in the same house (eka
The Nodes, being invisible, also cannot figure in this. bha) and same degree (eka amshaka), there is planetary
In Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra (BPHS), Chapter 81 war. The graha to the North is the winner. Both BPHS
(Sagar edition, 79 in the Ranjan edition) verse 9 it says: and UK say that the consequence of war is that the
In a planetary war between Mars, etc [Mars to Saturn] [if strength of the vanquished is transferred to the winner.
involved] Venus wins whether in the North or South. In BPHS, this is made explicit as the difference of the
Otherwise, the planet to the North wins over that to the Shadbal (six-fold) strength which is added to the winner
South. Surya Siddhanta (Chapter 7, v19 – 23) states and subtracted to the loser. Clearly, the effect of Graha
essentially the same rule: An encounter (Yuddha) is called Yuddha is more intense when there is already a big
‘ray-obliteration’ (Anshuvimarda) when there is a mutual difference between the strengths of the planets as per the
mingling of rays: when the interval is less than one degree, Surya Siddhanta text. Thus, all such wars are not equal.
the encounter is named Apasavya if, in this case, one is When you see one in a chart, check the shadbal scores.
faint (Anu). If the interval is more than one degree, it is The most extensive discourse on Graha Yuddha is by
‘conjunction’ (Samagama) if both are powerful (Bala). VarahaMihir. He was later than Parashara but most
One that is vanquished (Jita) in an Apasavya Yuddha [is] probably earlier than Kalidasa. Maharishi Parashara

16 ACVA Journal 8.2

lived many thousands of years ago, according to tradi- appearance, without brilliance and colourless. Some
tion. He was the father of Vyasa, who figures promi- commentators feel that bereft of speed is also implied
nently in the MahaBharata that describes the great war here. The marks of victory are given as the opposite to
that took place about 5100 years ago. However, both the aforementioned, e.g. large, glossy, brilliant, even
Parashara and Vyasas are considered to be immortals though placed in the South. Here we find VarahaMihir, as
and cannot be readily ascribed to any era. VarahaMihir he does, elaborating on the rather terse rules of
was one of the nine jewels of the court of Raja Parashara. Actually, we do not know what version of
Vikramaditya, one of India’s most famous emperors, BPHS he had. It may have been much more elaborate
and is dated to about 505 AD. He was hailed for his and extensive that what we have today. The importance
brilliance in astrology by Al Buruni (973 AD), the Arab of brightness is mentioned, in line with the rule in BPHS
scholar and traveller. that Venus is always victorious. However, VarahaMihir
Like many astrologers, his chosen deity was Surya, the mentions in a later verse what the effect is of Venus
Sun. It is interesting that Sun worship predominated in being defeated by the other planets. It is hard to see how
ancient times when astrology was widely and deeply Mercury could beat Venus by the above rules, but clearly
integrated into society. These days, even in India, few the passage to the North, which appears synonymous to
worship Surya Devata, and those whose charts indicate mounting upon or standing above, is of considerable
such worship usually become the devotees of Shiva. This importance. I have seen cases where a planet is to the
leads us to understand that the knowledge of the Atma North of Venus and there are signs that the planet has
or Self, whose Karaka is the Sun, and Jyotish are deeply gained some advantage.
connected, and it is the outward orientation of the A wonderful novelty of VarahaMihir’s discourse is the
present age that has led both to be neglected. It is next verse that states: When both planets are radiant,
encouraging that Jyotish is becoming more popular, but large and glossy, they being in love with each other conduce
the temptation to make it another soulless occupation to their respective parties establishing peace and friendship
should be resisted. between them. This is a wonderful caveat to bear in
VarahaMihir wrote a whole chapter (XVII) in Brihat mind. This may well be the same as the Samagama
Samhita on planetary war. Throughout Brihat Samhita, encounter of the Surya Siddhanta where both planets
VarahaMihir makes much of fine details of observation. are powerful. Clearly, attention to the brightness of the
He states: According to the closeness of approach there are planets is important. This can be known from tables and
four kinds of war stated by Parashara and other sages: software that gives the magnitudes of the planets.
Bheda (occultation, cleaving), Ullekha (grazing), Negative magnitudes are very bright. As the number
Amshumardana (clashing of the rays) and Apasavya increases (becomes less negative, or more positive), the
(passing to the South). He gives different types of results object is fainter and fainter.
according to these. Bheda brings failure of rains and In recent times, before the advent of the computer,
discord amongst friends and big families. Ullekha causes astrologers in India usually depended on Panchangas,
high food prices, clash of arms and serious political which typically only gave the longitudes of the planets.
squabbling. Amshumardana brings war, diseases and Thus the other dimension - latitude or declination - as
famine, and Apasavya brings war. It appears that two well as brightness, was unknown. Latitude gives the
planets that pass further apart are more destructive (as distance of the graha from the Zodiac to its (the
in Hitler’s chart – see below) than those that touch or Zodiac’s) North or South. However, from our point of
almost touch. This is part of the importance of observa- view, the Zodiac is at a varying angle, so north of the
tion, to see the relative positions. One could not judge Zodiac is not usually due North as we see it. Declination
this just from the longitudes. gives us the North/South position with respect to the
VarahaMihir continues, A planet is said to be defeated Earth’s equator, so is more exactly like what we observe.
when it is situated to the South of another, is rough, All of the texts use the Sanskrit term Yamya for South. In
quivering, retreating without actually coming into contact Uttara Kalamrita, the verse explaining Graha Yuddha
with the other, small, mounted upon, of unnatural comes just after the verse on Ayana Bala in the discus-

ACVA Journal 8.2 17

sion of Shadbal calculation. Here also, Yamya is used,
ME 03:22
and this clearly refers to Kranti or declination and is SU 08:30 RA 29:33
taken as such by all translators. Thus it seems clear that MA 24:04
VE 24:23
we should understand Yamya or South as of lower
declination. How the Southern hemisphere should be
handled is a matter of debate, but if the point is that the Adolph Hitler SA 21:09
planet above is stronger, South then could be read as April 20, 1889
North. Near the equator, it would depend on the time of 6:30 PM LMT
year if we follow this logic. Braunau-am-Inn,
There are many traditional astrologers who use only Austria
longitude to determine planetary war. Most say that the
Graha with the lower degree of longitude becomes the
winner. Some argue that the planet ‘behind’ is somehow MO 14:19
to the North. This makes no sense astronomically, as the VKE 22:45 AS 04:23
JU 15:56
celestial longitude tells us nothing about which planet
appears higher or lower in the sky. I feel that this rule is
born of the necessity of giving judgments when the
needed information (i.e. declination or at least latitude) associates died under doubtful circumstances, almost
was not available, so some choice had to be made based certainly killed by him or by his order. His people, whom
on what was known, viz. the longitudes. he mesmerized (Venus) and dominated, had to undergo
If we take Parashara’s rule using declination as the the greatest suffering and eventual humiliation. The
way of determining North/South then the rule is easy Mars energy, leading to impulsiveness, destroyed him.
to apply, given the necessary information—the declina- Born into a Venus Dasha, he started off as an artist.
tion which will be given by good astrological and astro- His Surya Dasha started in 1907, coinciding with his
nomical software as well as some ephemerides. If one failure to enter Vienna’s Academy of Fine Arts. The Sun
wishes to explore VarahaMihir’s insights, more care needs is in Aries and thus dependent on (weak) Mars associ-
to be taken. Having worked as an astronomer, I feel de- ated with Venus and conjunct Mercury, the 12th lord, so
lighted by his manifest joy in observing the moods of the this Dasha saw him in a poor state scraping a living
planets. To decide whether a planet is more or less ‘glossy’ painting postcards. The Moon Dasha, being in a
may require a clear sky on the moment in question. Nakshatra of Venus (PurvAshada) brought the begin-
A classic example of planetary war is in Adolf Hitler’s ning of the Martian experience; he joined the army,
chart (April 20, 1889, 18:30 LMT [6:30 pm], Braunau went to the front and was decorated twice for his
am Inn, Austria [13E02 48N15]). Hitler has Libra rising bravery during World War I. After the war he started
and Venus is very close to Mars, the ruler of the 2nd and into politics quickly, becoming the leader of a political
7th in Aries. Venus was standing well above Mars, so party and the formidable force he created from it. In
there is no debate about the winner, and that is obvious, 1923, with Mars Dasha starting, he naturally tried to
as individuals with their Lagna Lord defeated feel in start a war trying to force the Bavarian government into
some way defeated and are most unlikely to dominate a full scale effort against the Weimar Republic. However,
over others. Since the energy of the loser is transferred to the weakness of Mars could not support this and it failed
the winner, Venus gains the energy of Mars and thus and he had to spend nine months in prison. Still, as
becomes warlike. As ascendant lord it dominates over Mars is again in a Venus Nakshatra (Bharani) he contin-
those represented by Mars, here partners and other ued his political efforts, but it was when Rahu started
people. The weakness of the 7th lord is reflected in the that he shot forward to the leadership of the National
terrible end of all the women in his life. He did not Socialist party and within 2-3 more years, leader of
marry until a few minutes before his death and then she Germany. The rest, as they say, is history.
killed herself, joining him in death. His previous female Rahu is not so obviously associated with Venus and

18 ACVA Journal 8.2

Mars except that it is within less than one degree of the armies – meant he was completely finished before this
war – 60 degrees ahead – in the 3rd, a powerful place for cycle ended. In June 1944, he was injured in the failed
Rahu. Its Nakshatra dispositor, Jupiter, is 6th lord and in coup attempt and on the 30th April 1945, he shot himself
a Venus Nakshatra (PurvAshadha), the same one as during Rahu Venus Ketu.
Ketu, the lord of the Nakshatra of its Rashi dispositor, It is interesting to note that in the ShriPati Bhava
Mercury, which is in Aries. In fact, the Moon, Jupiter, chart, Venus and Mars move into the 8th house. Among
Venus, Mars and Ketu are all in Venus Nakshatras. Rahu his 8th house indications, Hitler had an enormous
in the 9th house, a powerful place for Rahu, typically pornographic collection and was also interested in
indicated a distorted approach to religion and spiritual- astrology. Of course, war and collective calamity were
ity, and the attempt to impose different norms on the fruits of the Graha Yuddha falling in this house, and
society. The wise and the good were much afflicted. of their extensive influence on the other planets. Venus is
While Jupiter is conjunct the Moon in its own sign, the final Nakshatra dispositor of all the planets.
giving a Gaja Keshari Yoga indicative of high position, Andrew Foss is the President of the British Associa-
the closeness of Jupiter to the Moon makes it weak, the tion of Vedic Astrology (BAVA) and the Editor of
light of the Moon virtually hiding Jupiter. The other key Gochara. He is the author of the Shri Jyoti Star Vedic
dispositor, Mercury, is combust. Thus Rahu could only Astrology software and he is finalizing a book about the
lead to his downfall. Rahu Venus started in 1942. The Grahas. He consults and provides training in Vedic
association with the prime Maraka for the chart and the Astrology through individual tuition and occasional
impossibility of making good decisions due to Mars’ one- or two-week intensives Phone: 1-877-484-7474
cruelty and the activation of the Yoga indicating the tollfree (Canada) Email: [email protected]
destruction of what Mars stood for – his people and Website: www.vedicsoftware.com

ACVA Journal 8.2 19

 Classical Jyotisha and the Western Mind:
Hybrid Vigor or a Mule?
Penny Farrow

Author’s note: This article was directly inspired by material The Eastern view is quite different. The vidyas, or
covered in seminars and private conversations with my subjects of divine knowledge in India, such as Ayurveda
mentor, Hart deFouw. I have cited principles and examples and Jyotisha, reside in and are learned through oral
learned through him with his encouragement and blessing. tradition. For example, Hart deFouw’s early studies at
the feet of his guru began as rote memorization of

I
nterest in Jyotisha is growing at an exponential rate principles recited word for word without the benefit of
in the West. Accompanying this growth is a prolif notes or books. This type of education is still found in
eration of ideas both for integrating Jyotisha prin- parts of India to this day. To learn a vidya, children leave
ciples with Western astrological concepts and for re- home and go to the gurukulam (a school) to reside and
searching a myriad of specialized applications and sing- study with a master who is the living embodiment of the
ular principles that are scattered through the shastras. knowledge. Information is primarily transmitted
This intellectual and practical expansion of the ancient through the spoken word.
teachings is inevitable and healthy, especially when Like other aspects of a vidya, Jyotisha’s great classical
carried out with full diligence to maintain the integrity works were not initially presented in written form;
of the tradition. Our challenge as teachers and students therefore, a book such as the Brihat Parashara Hora
of Indian astrology is to encourage an invigorating Shastra cannot be studied or understood in the same
evolution of Jyotisha analogous to the vigor obtained way as can a Western book. Traditionally, the guru
when crossing two different breeding lines, rather than focuses on one shloka at a time, which the disciple
allowing it to fall into the impotency of a mule. chants and memorizes. The guru then expounds on the
In order to be appropriate custodians of this timeless shloka for months or years, using example after example
knowledge and preserve it effectively, Jyotishis should to convey the full understanding contained in one terse
understand some essential differences between how the but often colorful aphorism. This is why the verses are
Western and Eastern traditions regard the written word known as sutras or threads. They must be carefully
and pass on knowledge. unraveled in order to appreciate the full spectrum of
In the West, books and other media are the primary implication, much as one must unravel a tangled skein
vehicles for learning. Our books are structured to pro- to accurately judge its length.
vide comprehensive understanding of a subject without Because most of us in the West will not have the
the aid of a teacher. Books are available for all levels of benefit of learning Indian astrology in the traditional
experience and intellectual ability on any specific subject. way, it is vital to approach the classical works with an
From the “Dummy” series for general information accurate mindset, taking into account certain funda-
addressed to the novice, through to highly specific tomes mental rules of interpretation. Western subjects also
for the expert, there is a book to meet our every need. If require a particular framework of understanding, but
the book is well written and complete, we often find a this framework is so familiar to us that we are not
teacher unnecessary. Obviously, teachers can clarify our usually conscious of it. For example, we understand the
questions and inspire us, but, in this culture, their impor- dense body of knowledge contained in our religious
tance is distinctly secondary to that of the written word. books through a set of codified principles known as

20 ACVA Journal 8.2

exegesis; a student of the Bible, for example, would be awareness of upakrama upasamharaikya.
completely lost without taking into account the exegeti-
cal device of allegory. Similarly, in the ancient Indian ABHYASA (Practice or Repetition)
works, there are six essential principles of interpretation The value and importance of a principle is directly
described in the commentary literature of the Brahma proportionate to its emphasis through the device of
Sutras. These principles provide a meaningful approach repetition.
to understanding these Sanskritic texts.
Italics, punctuation, and underlining do not exist in
PRINCIPLES OF EXEGESIS FOR the Sanskrit language. So how are things emphasized?
CLASSICAL JYOTISHA TEXTS One way is through abhyasa, or repetition. When a
particular principle is repeated in several shastras or
The six exegetical principles are: upakrama upasamharaikya,
abhyasa, apurvata, phala, arthavada, and upapatti.
within a single work, we must respect it as having great
importance. For example, in Brihat Parashara Hora
UPAKRAMA UPASAMHARAIKYA Shastra, there are ten chapters on yogas. This is the
(Preeminence of beginning and end) greatest number of chapters devoted to a particular area
(Note: this is sometimes also written as one word - in this work with the exception of the section on Dasha/
upakramopasamharaikya.)
Bhuktis. Likewise, in Phaladeepika, the number of verses
Interpretation of passages consistent with the thematic
on yogas exceeds that of all others. Something is being
context presented at the beginning and end of a topic.
communicated here that we must not miss: Yogas are
This principle can apply on several different layers: preeminent for accurate horoscope analysis.
the opening and ending shloka of an entire work, the Abhyasa also applies in the characterization of a
start and end of a chapter within a work, and even the planet as a natural benefic or a natural malefic. If you
beginning and ending of a single shloka or short set of examine how many shlokas recite the benefits or
shlokas. Every classical work in this tradition begins with difficulties associated with a planet’s inherent qualities,
an invocation to the Divine, which helps us understand you will find that they far exceed those describing
the words that follow. In Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, functional benefics and malefics, and you might well
Parashara opens with a prayer to Ganesha and we thus question the emphasis found in many contemporary
understand that the entire work is designed to remove books on the functional nature of the planets. Func-
suffering and obstacles. Parashara ends with a shloka tional benefics and malefics are important as they do
stating that the entire work was narrated by Lord appear in the shastras, but consider what is emphasized
Brahma, and admonishes us to teach this wisdom only through the device of abhyasa.
to those who have proven worthy. These shlokas by their If we further apply the first principle of upakrama
location at the beginning and end of the work establish upasamharaikya to the issue of natural versus functional
the importance of Jyotisha as a sacred science with its planetary significance, we get even more confirmation
roots in the Divine. These key declarations dispel the for what we learned through abhyasa. The inherent
frequent argument that Jyotisha is mundane and qualities of the grahas, including which are benefic and
materialistic; this argument only lives because we do not which are malefic, are discussed right after the invoca-
understand how to read the shastras. tion not only in Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra but also
Immediately following Parashara’s opening invoca- in every other Shastra. Conversely, Parashara’s discus-
tion, there is a shloka that unequivocally establishes this sion of functional benefics and malefics starts some-
knowledge as oral tradition: “Maitreya said…” The where around chapter 34. Thus, exegesis tells us that
remaining instruction takes the form of a dialogue although most definitely important, the functional role
between sage and disciple. The ending shloka, men- of a planet is not as fundamental as is its natural role.
tioned above, reinforces this context by stating that the
work is narrated by Lord Brahma. APURVATA (Unique Principle)
As with the remaining principles of exegesis, it is Recognizing unique principles unavailable elsewhere in
difficult to accurately interpret the shastras without an the shastras.

ACVA Journal 8.2 21

 to a seminar when something “new” is being taught.
As Westerners, we have learned through mismatch— Authors sell books and become popular speakers when
through finding and emphasizing difference rather than they present a unique technique that gives insight into a
similarity. Usually, when we find a mismatch, we dis- murky area of interpretation. A student skims through
count one thing or the other. In the shastras, by contrast, the shastras looking for that one aberrant shloka that
unprecedented statements or even contradictions to will reverse all the obstructions in his chart and make
previous principles are intended not to confuse us but him a king. This is completely human and also abso-
rather to alert us that something is now to be examined. lutely necessary for evolution. New thoughts and
We are not meant to disregard either the exception or methods prevent us from getting mired in the past and
the rule. This becomes a problem for Westerners in two becoming hopelessly stale. However, spinning freely into
ways. Without understanding exegesis, we can become unwarranted directions can vitiate the rich tradition of
discouraged with the seemingly contradictory nature of Jyotisha.
Jyotisha and give up. The other problem is one of
misplaced emphasis, when a unique principle is paraded ARTHAVADA (Eulogy or Condemnation)
as equally valid to the principles stressed as preeminent Emphasizing a principle through the device of eulogy
through their repetition and placement in a classical or condemnation. A common error involves the literal
work. interpretation of such passages.
It is fascinating and somewhat sobering to see how
much of what is presently taught as mainstream Jyotisha The language of the shastras is one of the great
really rests in the realm of apurvata. The unwary student barriers to Westerners approaching the discipline of
understandably starts to treat these principles as founda- Jyotisha, and arthavada is the device that presents the
tional. Common examples include Vipareeta Raja Yoga, greatest difficulties in this regard. If the principles of
Kheshtra and Bheeja Sphuta, the declaration that exalted exegesis are taught at the outset and students under-
retrograde planets become weak and debilitated retro- stand the context of extreme statements, misconcep-
grade planets act as if exalted, the techniques of Iyer, and tions, apprehension, and disappointment are greatly
ALL principles of divisional chart interpretation that alleviated; when a person does not become a great king
employ techniques of rashi chart analysis. And this list is worshipped by all their subjects as a divine being as the
but a small sample. Are these apurvata principles and shastra proclaims, confidence in Jyotisha is not de-
techniques without merit? Of course not. Many of these stroyed.
methods have been used for years but should not be Highlighting something through colorful statements
presented as classical Indian astrology until they are and even wild exaggeration supports recall and makes a
supported (as some are) through phala (see below). point, particularly in classical works originally presented
While it may seem extreme to maintain such differentia- in a language that has few other means of emphasis.
tion, only through such demarcation can we truly Hyperbolic language induces vivid imagery, which is an
understand the shastras and thus Jyotisha. As with art, aid to memorization. Extravagant eulogy (great praise)
language, music, and other classical disciplines, students attached to a principle gives the lasting impression that
learn and integrate certain basics before individual the combination described is pretty good. Profuse
creativity can flourish. condemnation leaves no doubt that the combination
described will be related to some undesirable effects.
PHALA (Fruit or Result) Arthavada-type statements are not usually meant to
Empirical application of a unique principle must be taken literally, though some literal application can
demonstrate its utility; otherwise, a unique principle certainly materialize. Rather, such statements are meant
lacks substance because it remains speculative. to draw your attention and create a lasting impression.
They emphasize important items. We use arthavada all
Maintaining the tradition of Indian astrology relies the time to some degree in our speech. We exaggerate to
on a thorough understanding of the implications and our parents, to our children, to our friends, and to
integration of apurvata and phala. We are often drawn
22 ACVA Journal 8.2
ourselves as a device for coloration, teaching, and so on. shloka of this chapter (upakrama upasamharaikya)? The
It is interesting to examine the extent of the eulogy last shloka states, among other things, that the stated
and condemnation with regard to a planetary place- effects of the house lords are to be deduced considering
ment, such as Jupiter in the first house, and a yoga, such their strengths and weaknesses. If you miss reading this
as a Hamsa Yoga where Jupiter may be in the first house point of emphasis, you can miss the reason you may not
but in its own sign or exalted. The marked difference in be getting the results listed in the shlokas that come
the hyperbole underscores the value given by the rishis before. The principles of exegesis again illuminate the
to the yoga combination over the simple bhava place- intent of the rishi.
ment. When read this way, the declarations in the Some principles in the shastras may be stated so
shastras take on ever greater significance. simply, or in such skeletal form, that trying to apply
them in that simple way without the necessary amplifi-
UPAPATTI (Consistency) cation provided through the guidance of a teacher can
Following logical and pragmatic consistency in inter- fail to give reliable results.
pretation; reject contrarian, illogical, idealistic, and With the popularity of Jyotisha in the West, astrolo-
highly subjective interpretations because of their gers from India are increasingly coming forward with
insidious potential for diluting the established utilitar- their particular specialties from parampara (family)
ian value of tradition. tradition. Moreover, Western students of Indian astrol-
ogy rely less on the classics and more on contemporary
Failure to identify unique viewpoints as apurvata books, which are easier to read but a step removed from
violates the principle upapatti and therefore weakens the the original classics; the apurvata in these modern works
tradition. is enticing. The techniques of Western astrology are also
becoming mingled with those of Indian astrology. All of
CONCLUSION AND POLEMIC this can be dynamic and enlivening in the proper
context. However, the discriminating student needs to
Absence of the traditional guru/disciple relationship
continue to evaluate everything that is heard and taught
and lack of exegetical understanding has perpetuated an
in the light of the pooled wisdom of the Jyotisha tradi-
unfortunate tendency in the West with regard to
tion that has prevailed throughout the ages. This
Jyotisha. This is the tendency of discarding some of
wisdom resides in the shastras, which are still available
Indian astrology’s basic principles, in the belief that they
to us for study even if we may not be able to appreciate
are outdated, simplistic, or simply wrong. Many re-
their full value due to poor English translations and the
spected authors throw out this or that principle because
lack of a traditional guru/disciple relationship.
it didn’t work in their practice, and even declare the
The accuracy and utility of core principles has
principle useless. These authors have every right to their
enabled Indian astrology to survive centuries of cultural
opinions as long as they state that these are just that:
upheaval. Like a would-be avant-garde musician who
their opinions. Otherwise, students might reject impor-
must first learn scales, teachers and students of Jyotisha
tant information and excellent principles without first
can confidently turn to unique and exciting concepts,
taking the opportunity to deeply explore them and form
either in or outside of the classical works, only after
their own conclusions.
becoming firmly grounded in the essentials. Unique
An example of misapplication and consequent
methodologies should undergo phala before they can be
misinterpretation is commonly seen when students goes
used with assurance and accepted into the mainstream.
through Parashara’s important chapter on the effects
Presenters should clearly distinguish between estab-
generated when house lords are placed in the various
lished, core principles and a personal observation,
houses. They look at a combination usually from their
favorite theory, or individual research interest. This
own chart and, seeing that the stated effects don’t match
prevents confusion and disillusionment on the part of
up with their experiences, quickly become discouraged
students of the subject. With such discernment,
about the value of the shastras. But did the students
apurvata can then become a means of keeping Jyotisha
interpret the various shlokas in the context of the last

ACVA Journal 8.2 23

relevant and fresh across time and through changing
cultural milieu.
Another of our challenges is to try to reconstruct and
resurrect as much of the original cognitions as possible
by supporting projects to preserve ancient recorded
material that is rotting in libraries in India, by support-
ing those living custodians of the tradition that are still
practicing in India today, by learning or by supporting
the teaching of Sanskrit and other classical subjects to
keep the tradition lively, and by supporting institutions
in this country that are dedicated to maintaining the
tradition of the classical Indian culture.
The combination of the brilliant inquiry of Western
creative intelligence and the ancient wisdom of the
vidyas of India can produce an offspring that is the best
of both possible worlds. But, if there is a helter-skelter
fusion based on expediency, it will leave this sacred
knowledge as barren as the sterile offspring of the horse
and the donkey–useful perhaps for one generation but
devoid of the power to propagate itself for the future.

Penny Farrow has a B.S. and M.S. degree from Cornell University
in the Biological Sciences and has had extensive career experience
as a teacher, researcher and business woman. She has been
involved in the study of the Vedic tradition since 1971 as part of
a life-long commitment to her spiritual practice. She has studied
Jyotish intensely under the personal tutelage of Hart deFouw and
K.N. Rao. She has been a teaching assistant for Hart deFouw for
his six-week intermediate and advanced jyotish courses and his
recent in-residence foundation and intermediate courses.
Penny was honored with a Jyotish Bhanu certificate from the
Systems’ Institute of Hindu Astrology and a certificate of honor
from the Institute of Astrology (Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan) in
New Delhi for promoting jyotish in the USA. She is the author
of several articles including a recent The Mountain Astrologer
submission as well as four articles in the new edition of the
Encylopedia of Astrology. She practices and teaches jyotish full-
time and is an ACVA teacher and tutor. Her particular interest is
in integrating her predictions with guidelines on practical
approaches to remedial measures as well as traditional upayas.
Consultations and tutoring are available in person or by phone.
She can be contacted at 9 Boxwood Drive, Durham, NC 27713
Phone: (919) 349-1187 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.vedicchart.com

24 ACVA Journal 8.2