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Home , Anuradha (nakshatra), Ardra (nakshatra), Aryaman, Ashadha, Ashlesha (nakshatra), Bhadra (Hindu calendar)

Your Healing Stars: Volume I Fundamentals of Vedic

by Radhe

Chapter 16: Introduction

Chapter 16: Introduction

Surya rules the daytime and the 12 rashis. Each rashi is defined by the movement of the as it passes through a grouping of stars in the course of a .

In contrast, lords over the nighttime and the 27 lunar mansions, or . The term means ‘star map’. A nakshatra is measured by the ’s passage through a smaller grouping of stars in the course of a day. In the dark, still nights of ancient times, it was relatively easy to map out the lunar nakshatras. One simply had to observe the stellar backdrop of the moon in the night sky.

Just as a graha occupying a rashi is influenced by the nature of that , so too, is true of a graha occupying a nakshatra. As the abodes of the gods, each nakshatra is aligned with the energy of its residing godhead. For example, the first nakshatra is Aswhini, wherein dwell the Aswhini Kumars (twin boys on horses), gods known for their rapid healing methods. Aptly, a graha that occupies Aswhini has the power () to accomplish things quickly.

Since Jyotisha is a lunar-based system, the nakshatra placement of Chandra is important. Chandra represents the perceptive consciousness. In contrast to other grahas, Chandra is easily influenced by environmental factors. Thus, an individual is greatly inspired by the gross and subtle attributes associated with his/her natal moon nakshatra. The nakshatra of natal Chandra is referred as the “birth nakshatra”.

The nakshatra of other personal grahas, such as the Lagnesha and , as well as the , also hold significance. In fact, the nakshatra placement of any graha is important in understanding its behavior and expression on multiple realms of existence. For example, if the 4B bhavesha occupies Ashwini, perhaps the mother is a doctor, nurse or healer. Or if , graha karaka for ancient (doctrines transmitted orally from teacher to student) and higher studies, occupies Ashwini, the person may pursue an education in ancient modalities of alternative healing.

The following lists each of the 27 nakshatras, its ruling and energy (shakti). If you know your moon nakshatra, look up its associated shakti in the table below.

Chapter 16: Introduction Table 1: The 27 Lunar Nakshatras and their Shakti

# Name Deity Shakti

1 Aswhini Aswhini Kumars, healing gods Power to accomplish things quickly

2 , god of death Power to remove things in life

3 Krittika , god of fire Power to burn or destroy

4 , the creator Power to grow and create

5 Mrigashira , the moon Power to fulfill desires

6 (), the healer Power to hit a target

7 , mother of the gods Power to gain wealth

8 Brihaspati, lord of sacred speech Power to gain spiritual knowledge

9 Nagas, serpents Power to inflict poison

10 Ancestors, protectors of humanity Power to leave the body

11 Purva Phalguni , sun god of marriage Power to procreate , sun god of conjugal bliss and 12 Uttara Phalguni prosperity Power to bring happiness Power to obtain goals through our 13 Hasta Savitar, sun god of inspiration hands

14 Chitra Tvashtar, sun god and celestial architect Power to achieve good merit

15 Swati , the wind god Power to scatter, like the wind Power to accomplish goals and 16 Vishakha (king of heaven) and Agni (fire god) aspirations

17 , sun god of friendship Power to make friends

18 Jyeshta Indra, lord of heaven Power to conquer

19 Nirriti, goddess of destruction Power to destroy

20 Purva Apas, water goddesses Power to invigorate

21 Uttara Ashadha , all the gods, collectively Power to be victorious

22 , god of sustenance Power to connect with others

23 , gods of the earthly realm Power to be famous and wealthy

24 Ṣatabhishak , lord of the oceans Power to heal

25 Purva Bhadrapada Aja , one-footed serpent god Power of spiritual growth

26 Uttara Bhadrapada Ahirbudhnya, serpent of the sky Power to bring rain 27 , sun god of nourishment Power to nourish

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their

Introduction In the following sections, the nature of each nakshatra devata is highlighted. (For the detailed Vedic portrayal and mythology of the nakshatra devatas, see The Divine Forces of the Lunar Nakshatras, written by the author.) Included in each nakshatra section is the scriptural description of one’s natal moon nakshatra.1

1 Descriptives are sourced from various Jyotisha , including Ratnam, Hora-Sara, Maansagari, Jataka Bharnam, and Jyotisha--Sara. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Table 2: 27 Nakshatras and their Ruling Devatas

# Name Rashi Degree Devata

1 Ashwini 0.00-13.20 Aswhini Kumars, celestial healing twins

2 Bharani Aries 13.20-26.40 Yama, lord of death

3 Krittika Aries- 26.40-10.00 Agni, lord of fire

4 Rohini Taurus 10.00-23.20 , the creator god

5 Mrigashira Taurus- 23.20-6.40 Soma, the moon

6 Ardra Gemini 6.40-20.00 Rudra, an ancient form of Shiva

7 Punarvasu Gemini- 20.00-3.20 Aditi, mother earth

8 Pushya Cancer 3.20-16.40 Brihaspati, preceptor of the gods

9 Ashlesha Cancer 16.40-30.00 Nagas, celestial serpent snakes

10 Magha 0.00-13.20 Pitris, ancestors

11 Purva Phalguni Leo 13.20-26.40 Aryaman, god of traditions

12 Uttara Phalguni Leo- 26.40-10.00 Bhaga, god of bliss

13 Hasta Virgo 10.00-23.20 Savitar, sun god

14 Chitra Virgo- 23.20-6.40 Tvashtar, celestial architect

15 Swati Libra 6.40-20.00 Vayu, wind god

16 Vishakha Libra- 20.00-3.20 Indra-Agni, dual gods Indra and Agni

17 Anuradha Scorpio 3.20-16.40 Mitra, god of friendship

18 Jyeshta Scorpio 16.40-30.00 Indra, king of heaven

19 Mula 0.00-13.20 Nirriti, goddess of destruction

20 Purva Ashadha Sagittarius 13.20-26.40 Apas, water goddesses

21 Uttara Ashadha Sagittarius- 26.40-10.00 Visvedevas, all the gods collectively

22 Shravana Capricorn 10.00-23.20 Vishnu, the sustainer of the universe

23 Dhanishta Capricorn- 23.20-6.40 Vasus, earthly gods

24 Shatabhishak Aquarius 6.40-20.00 Varuna, lord of the waters

25 Purva Bhadrapada Aquarius- 20.00-3.20 Aja Ekapada, one-legged serpent

26 Uttara Bhadrapada Pisces 3.20-16.40 Ahirbudhnya, cloud serpent 27 Revati Pisces 16.40-30.00 Pushan, lord of cattle

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Ashwini, ruled by Ashwini Kumars

Nakshatra translation horsemen Devata Ashwini Kumars Devata translation young boys on horses Constellation Aries 0:00-13:20 Stars 2 Stellar configuration head of a horse

Moon in Aswhini: A person born in Ashwini nakshatra will be beautiful, lucky, efficient in work, will have a bulky body, be wealthy and a public figure.

Readers may be familiar with the Ashwini Kumars, for these twin boys are credited with the transmission of Ayurveda to mankind.

According to the of Ayurveda, there is a time when the human race is overcome by the darkness of illness and disease. The are gravely concerned, for in such a dire state, people no longer adhere to spiritual practices. The great sages approach Brahma, the creator god for a solution. Brahma elects to impart the vidya (knowledge) of Ayurveda to the Ashwini Kumars, who become renowned as celestial physicians.

In turn, the Ashwini Kumars instruct Indra (monarch of heaven) and the sages in the secrets of Ayurveda. One such seer is Agnivesha, who codifies the wisdom of Ayurveda in a text called Agnivesha (later renamed the Caraka ). To this day, the Caraka Samhita is used by Ayurvedic practitioners and students. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Bharani, ruled by Yama

Nakshatra translation to maintain or support Devata Yama Devata translation restraint Constellation Aries 13.20-26.40 Stars 3 Stellar configuration

Moon in Bharani: One born in the of Bharani will have quietly disposed mind. He will be unsteady in thinking, be after women, dear to his brothers, self- respected, courageous, helpful to friends, long lived and will less number of sons.

Yama is the devata ruler of Bharani. He and his twin sister Yami (woman of respect) are the first man and woman on earth. True to his name (Yama means ‘restraint) and that of his nakshatra (Bharani means ‘to maintain or support), this Vedic lord leads an exemplary life of proper conduct.

Yama is the first mortal to die and the first to discover the way to the heavenly abode of the gods. He shares this knowledge with others on earth and guards the transmigrating souls of the recently deceased as they traverse the path to heaven. For these reasons, Yama is anointed into kingship as Yama Pitri Raj, ‘king of the ancestors’.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Krittika, ruled by Agni

Nakshatra translation the cutters Devata Agni Devata translation lord of fire Constellation Aries-Taurus 26.40-10.00 Stars 6 Stellar configuration knife or sword

Moon in Krittika: One born in Krittika nakshatra will be stingy, sinful, will face starvation, remain aggrieved and indulge in wrongful acts.

Lord Agni, the divine ruler of Krittika, is the most frequently hymned-to god in the ancient Indian scripture known as the . Agni is the symbol for tejas (radiant heat), the foundation of all transformational processes within the physical, mental and subtle sheaths.

On the physical level, tejas transforms food into nutrition that nourishes the bodily tissues. On the mental realm, it enables the digestion and transformation of information into comprehension and right knowledge. Tejas supports mental clarity, stability, and intellectual courage, so that one may penetrate deeper truths. On the subtlest level, tejas is the fervor of (spiritual practice) that cleanses and purifies the spiritual body. Agni’s quality of tejas enables transformation on all levels for the one born under his nakshatra.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Rohini, ruled by Prajapati

Nakshatra translation ruddy-red Devata Brahma or Prajapti Devata translation creator god Constellation Taurus 10.00-23.20 Stars 5 Stellar configuration cart or wain

Moon in Rohini: One born in Rohini nakshatra will be wealthy, ever grateful and sagacious, commended by the king, a sweet articulator, accustomed to speak the truth and a handsome person.

In the most ancient times, Prajapati is famed as the father of all creatures. The legend of his birth is rather remarkable, for unlike other gods, Prajapti is conceived within a golden egg () that floats in the midst of the cosmic waters. In a ’s time, the golden egg cracks and Prajapati emerges.

Prajapati commences his grand act of creation by performing sacrificial worship. From this ceremonial performance, all that grows, crawls or walks upon the earth is created. As a gift to mankind, Prajapati even fathers the beautiful dames in the sky, the 27 nakshatras. In the later Puranic era, Prajapati is better known as Brahma.

Mrigashira, ruled by Soma

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas

Nakshatra translation deer head Devata Soma Devata translation nectar of immortality Constellation Taurus-Gemini 23.20-6.40 Stars 3 Stellar configuration deer head

Moon in Mrigashira: A person born in Mrigashira nakshatra remains engaged in the practice of bow and arrow, is modest and courteous, respects and recognizes virtues of the virtuous, enjoys the pleasures of the senses, is a favorite of the king and follows the path of righteousness.

Soma, ruling devata of Mrigashira, is addressed in the ancient scriptures in two ways. On a literal level, soma is a plant that grows in forests and on mountaintops. It is revered for the reddish-brown, ecstasy-inducing juice found within its green- tinted shoots.

On a mystical level, this “red young child of heaven” is a celestial devata, declared by all as “devam devaya devayu,” ‘the divine favorite of all divinities’. He is the adornment of the Vedic sacrificial ceremonies, the delight and ecstasy of men and the sap () of life. Mere mortals enter the celestial realm of the gods through his honey-nectar portal: “We have drunk Soma and become immortal; we have attained the light discovered by the Gods.” Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Ardra, ruled by Rudra

Nakshatra translation tear drop Devata Rudra Devata translation to roar or cry Constellation Gemini 6.40-20.00 Stars 1 Stellar configuration diamond or tear drop

Moon in Ardra: One born in Ardra nakshatra will be ungrateful, high tempered, mean, sinful and wicked and bereft of wealth and food.

Rudra, ruling devata of Ardra, is an arcane form of Lord Shiva. In the scriptures, Rudra is equated to all things dreadful and unrefined. Hence, since the beginning of time, he has been shunned by the gods, uninvited to the priestly (sacrifices) and unwelcomed in the village. Cast out by society, Rudra makes his home on the mountain tops and in dense jungle forests. With nature as his home, Rudra becomes expert in the medicinal properties of plants that grow in remote locales.

Eventually the villagers come to realize Rudra’s extraordinary healing abilities and invoke this godhead to heal their disease-stricken family members and cattle. Impressed with Rudra’s adeptness, the gods honor him with the famous life- restoring , the Tryambakam (pervading the three worlds’ or ‘three-eyed). “ tryambakam yajamahe sugandhim pushti-vardhanam, urvarukam iva bandhanan mrtyormukshiya mamrtat.” (We sacrifice to Tryambakam (Rudra), the sweet-scented, wealth-increasing. May I be detached from death, like a gourd from its stem, but not from the immortal.) Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Punarvasu, ruled by Aditi

Nakshatra translation good again Devata Aditi, mother of the gods Devata translation unbounded Constellation Gemini-Cancer 20.00-3.20 Stars 2 Stellar configuration bow

Moon in Punarvasu: A person born in Punarvasu nakshatra will be composed, comfortable, given to carnal pleasures, beautiful and renowned amongst his people. He will be endowed with children and friends.

Aditi is a gentle and loving goddess who shines her beneficent light upon humanity. The quintessence of the all-embracing, universal mother, Aditi affords triple shelter. In the vast heavens, she is the celestial mother of the gods and nurturer of her sons, the Adityas. In the wide mid-region, she is the sacred milch cow, depicted as a rain cloud, whose udders nourish the world with showers. In the lush terrestrial realm, she provides food, clothing and shelter to all her creatures.

With the passage of time, this universal mother is anointed Mother Earth. According to one legend, before Prajapati (creator god and ruler of Rohini) created vegetation, the surface of the earth was devoid of food and water, and unable to provide for life. Mother Earth approaches Prajapati, who makes an oblation of to the sacrificial fire. Suddenly plants, trees and brush cover the surface of earth. With her new, lush Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas green flesh, Mother Earth cares for all that grows and walks upon her surface.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Pushya, ruled by Brihaspati

Nakshatra translation to nourish Devata Brihaspati Devata translation lord of the sacred word Constellation Cancer 3.20-16.40 Stars 3 Stellar configuration arrow

Moon in Pushya: The native who is born in the Pushya nakshatra has a charming body, is devotee of his father and mother, doer of those deed which should be done by him, is courteous, respected in his society and has wealth and conveyance.

Brihaspati, the divine godhead of Pushya, is lord of the sacred Word and preceptor to the gods. He is reputed for his exalted guidance and advice and even lauded as the (Guru).

During the later Puranic era and with the introduction of the caste system, Brihaspati is charged with oversight of the entire Brahmin caste (domestic priests). As head Brahmin priest, Brihaspati holds the responsibility to protect and conserve this caste, one that represents the established sacred order of society. The Brahmin caste is a social stratum with exclusive rights to the secret teachings of the . It is also responsible for preserving wisdom from one generation to next. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Ashlesha, ruled by Sarpas

Nakshatra translation to encircle or entwine Devata sarpas Devata translation divine serpent-snakes Constellation Cancer 16.40-30.00 Stars 5 Stellar configuration coiled serpent

Moon in Ashlesha: A person born in Ashlesha nakshatra will be of malefic nature who will eat all sorts of things. He will be thankless, deceitful, wicked but will accomplish his task.

Sarpas (snake-serpents) are distinguished in the scriptures as being either divine or demonic in origin. The serpents of Ashlesha are godly ones. In the heat of battle, the gods summon these holy serpents for assistance in their fight against the . They are honored and worshipped by the Brahmin priests and invoked to join in their grand sacrifices. The priests even offer them sacrificial morsels.

Like several other nakshatras, Ashlesha and its devata rulers are symbolic of transformation and rebirth. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Magha, ruled by the Pitris

Nakshatra translation great one Devata Pitris Devata translation ancestors Constellation Leo 0.00-13.20 Stars 5 Stellar configuration palanquin

Moon in Magha: One born in Magha nakshatra will employ many servants, be affluent, voluptuous and devoted to his father. He could be an industrialist, commander in chief or a minister.

Magha translates as the ‘mighty one’ or ‘great one’. Its stars reside in the majestic mane of the Leo lion and include (α Leonis), a star referred to as the “little king” due to its magnificent luminosity. Thus, Magha is an apt abode for our ancestors, those great souls who came before us, and who serve as the divine rulers of this nakshatra.

According to the , our earliest ancestors are Vaivasvata and the Sapta Rishis (seven great sages). The Sapta Rishis impart their profound wisdom onto the world, as mystically revealed in the Rigveda. Their mission is to assist in the evolution of mankind by transforming and uplifting the human race. Manu Vaivasvata’s unique contribution is the initiation of the lineage that gave birth to the human race.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Purva Phalguni, ruled by Aryaman2

Nakshatra translation former fig tree Devata Aryaman Devata translation the noble one Constellation Leo 13.20-26.40 Stars 2 Stellar configuration front 2 legs of a bed

Moon in Purva Phalguni: The person will be conferred with opulence, education, cows and buffaloes. He will be of serious nature, loved by women, contended and respected by Pundits.

Aryaman is the ruling devata of Purva Phalguni. His name means ‘companion’ or ‘bosom friend’. Aryaman is intimately associated with familial ties and is the god of legal contracts. Marriage is considered the most important legal contract, for it is a life-long commitment to remain together in friendship and honor. Thus, Aryaman rules over the oath between bride and groom and the promise of eternal companionship.

2 Note that the ruling devatas of Purva Phalguni and Uttara Phalguni were reversed in post- Vedic literature. Refer to The Divine Forces of the Lunar Nakshatras, written by the author. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas

To this day in , the wedding fire is referred to as the Aryaman fire. Holding hands and circumambulating the Aryaman fire with seven steps, the bride and groom pledge to one another: “With these seven steps you have become my friend. May I deserve your friendship. May my friendship make me one with you. May your friendship make you one with me.”

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Uttara Phalguni, ruled by Bhaga3

Nakshatra translation latter fig tree Devata Bhaga Devata translation bliss, prosperity Constellation Leo-Virgo 26.40-10.00 Stars 2 Stellar configuration hind 2 legs of a bed

Moon in Uttara Phalguni: Should Uttara Phalguni be one’s natal asterism, he will be liked by his wife (or women), fortunate, will lead men, be wise, have income from the sovereign, many wives, liberal minded, be luxurious and will talk much.

The devatas of Purva Phalguni (Aryaman) and Uttara Phalguni (Bhaga) are closely linked, for both are intimately connected with marriage and its associated rewards and responsibilities. Aryaman upholds societal traditions and contracts made between two people, such as the wedding ceremony and the oath that the bride and groom take to remain friends throughout life.

Wedded as husband and wife, bride and groom soon bring children into the world. Established as a family, they enjoy good fortune and happiness. This is the role of

3 Note that the ruling devatas of Purva Phalguni and Uttara Phalguni were reversed in post- Vedic literature. Refer to The Divine Forces of the Lunar Nakshatras, written by the author. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Bhaga (pleasure), the ruling devata of Uttara Phalguni and bestower of prosperity, conjugal bliss and children.

The combined stellar formation of the Phalgunis is the conjugal bed.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Hasta, Savitar

Nakshatra translation hand Devata Savitar Devata translation to inspire Constellation Virgo 10.00-23.20 Stars 5 Stellar configuration five fingers and palm

Moon in Hasta: The person whose birth occurs in the Hasta is bountiful or beneficent, intelligent, is endowed with fame and glory, has great reverence for Brahmins and gods, is blessed with all kinds of wealth or possession.

Savitar is the divine ruler of Hasta and one of Aditi’s (ruler of Punarvasu) solar sons. His name is derived from the Sanskrit root meaning ‘to impel, inspire or stimulate’. Thus, Savitar is named for his action of impulsion. With his brilliant solar effulgence, he is invoked to inspire or impel the worshipper towards spirituality.

In the Vedas, Savitar is also known as Hiranyakshas, the ‘golden-eyed one.’ He is depicted as a dazzling eye in the sky that climbs to the heights of heaven in his daily path, imparting to others his far-reaching and clear-sighted vision. Harnessing the mind and stretching the thoughts of devotees, Savitar stimulates their intellect Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas towards higher truths.

Savitar’s mantra is the famous Savitri , arguably the single most esteemed mantra in all of India: “Tat Savitur varenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yo nah pracodayat.” (May we attain that excellent radiance of the god Savitar, so he may stimulate our visions.)

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Chitra, ruled by Tvashtar

Nakshatra translation brilliant Devata Tvashtar Devata translation heavenly builder Constellation Virgo-Libra 23.20-6.40 Stars 1 Stellar configuration pearl

Moon in Chitra: A person born in Chitra nakshatra will be attached to his wife and son, well contended, rich and devoted to Gods and Brahmin priests.

Comprised of the single brilliant star , Chitra denotes an object of extraordinary beauty or brilliant coloring that is striking to the eye. Hence, the ancient scriptures affectionately refer to Chitra nakshatra as “goddess Chitra, the bringer of beauty”. Chitra dazzles in the darkness of the night; in the light of day, the whole world marvels at the manifold creations produced by its devata ruler Tvashtar. In his anthropomorphic form, Tvashtar touts an iron axe which he uses to cut and shape delightful objects from wood.

This divine artisan of the universe is later known as Vishvakarman (maker of all forms) and honored during the Hindu festival known as Vishvakarman Jayanti (the birth celebration of Vishvakarman). During this day, artists and craftsmen pay respect to Vishvakarman by honoring the tools of their trades. The carpenter honors Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas his chisel, the weaver, his loom, and the potter, his pottery wheel. Indeed, the entire engineering and architectural community pay tribute to Vishvakarman on this day.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas , ruled by Vayu

Nakshatra translation self-going Devata Vayu Devata translation god of wind Constellation Libra 6.40-20.00 Stars 1 Stellar configuration young sprout

Moon in Svati: One born in Svati nakshatra will make the native ingenious, religious and famous. He will be affable and a devotee of the gods.

Svati is the abode of Vayu, the god of the wind. In the ancient Vedas, Vayu is depicted as Indra’s chief charioteer and his swiftness is likened to that of a thousand-horse- drawn . As a master charioteer, he is expert in leveraging the winds so that they speed him along his way, rather than impede his progress or blow him off course.

Loving the freedom and exhilaration that comes from roaming at will throughout the world, Vayu never stays long in one place. This explains his ancient name Anagara, ‘the houseless one’. Suitably, Vayu’s stellar abode of Svati lies in a remote location from the .

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Vishakha, ruled by Indra and Agni

Nakshatra translation branch Devata Indra and Agni Devata translation lord of heaven, god of fire Constellation Libra-Scorpio 20.00-3.20 Stars 2 Stellar configuration branch of a tree

Moon in Vishakha: A person born in Vishakha nakshatra will be acquisitive, highly egoistic, ruthless, quarrelsome and will frequent lower caste woman.

Vishakha is ruled by Indra and Agni, arguably the two most powerful gods in the universe. Individually, each devata rules another nakshatra: Agni lords over Krittika and Indra lords over Jyeshta.

Having been victorious in countless battles against the demons, these two indomitable forces crusade on behalf of the same noble vision: to ensure the righteous rule of the universe by the forces of light. For their heroic feats, they are declared preeminent among the gods. Thus, the Vedic scriptures are replete with invocations of Indra and Agni for conquering foes and eliminating rivals. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Anuradha, ruled by Mitra

Nakshatra translation success Devata Mitra Devata translation lord of friendship Constellation Scorpio 3.20-16.40 Stars 3 Stellar configuration bail (heap of rice)

Moon in Anuradha: One born in Anuradha nakshatra will travel to foreign countries for his livelihood, will work for his friends and remain ever-happy.

Mitra, translated as ‘friend or ally’, is the divine ruler of Anuradha. Without question, he is the most amiable of all ancient godheads. Never harming a tree, creature or even a demon, this benign godhead exemplifies the notion of ahimsa (non-violence). Guided by non-violence, cordial Mitra has little need for combat armor or warlike arsenals, which other gods find essential in the fight against darkness.

Mitra is the epitome of right alliances and most concerned with peaceful and fair relationships. Good will is essential in relationships, and this is Mitra’s most distinguished feature, one credited for his nearly spotless reputation and suggested by the epithet Putadaksha, ‘pure or noble-minded’. His pure state of mind represents the absence of hostility, animosity and jealousy. It is also the foundation for truth in speech, Mitra’s other reputed attribute. Benevolent, kind and loving, Mitra is likened Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas to the glorious morning sun.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Jyeshta, ruled by Indra

Nakshatra translation the eldest Devata Indra Devata translation the best or chief Constellation Scorpio 16.40-30.00 Stars 3 Stellar configuration circular amulet

Moon In Jyeshta: A person born in Jyeshta nakshatra will have many friends, be a leader, poet, donor, learned with saintly disposition and respected by the low-caste people.

There is little controversy over Indra’s status as the most celebrated god of the Vedas. His battles against the asuras are never-ending. Countless are the hymns to his glorification. No force matches his might and valor, and no weapon can equal the mass annihilation his thunderbolt brings. Indra crusades the tempestuous atmosphere, for its wide space serves as a coliseum where this ruddy bull rides upon a golden carriage drawn by two robust bay horses.

Indra enters into battle with the fiercest of asuras, demon . This single valiant feat, the slaying of Vritra, earns him the appellation Maharaja (supreme sovereign), and the gods consecrate him as monarch of heaven. From that day forward, Indra’s Mahabhisheka (great kingly coronation) serves as the prototype for all kingly investitures in the mundane world. Countless Vedic hymns to Indra’s honor are Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas henceforth recited by kings seeking preservation of royal status, a peaceful rule and victory at war.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Mula, ruled by Nirriti

Nakshatra translation root Devata Nirriti Devata translation dissolution Constellation Sagittarius 0.00-13.20 Stars 9 Stellar configuration roots tied together

Moon in Mula: One born in Mula nakshatra will be happy, have great wealth and conveyances, will be violent, strong, steady and exertive. He will win over his enemies and become famous.

Imagine a deep, dark abyss where danger and destruction lurk around every corner—a place where only demons dare to roam. This is the haunt of Nirriti, a fierce goddess of death and destruction and the devata ruler of Mula. In of goddesses, Nirriti is likened to the dark mother, Goddess .

At times this goddess is referred to as Mother Earth. But she is not the green, lush, nurturing aspect of earth as depicted by Aditi (devata ruler of Punarvasu). Nirriti is mother to that early aspect of earth which lacked life. Indeed, scripture assigns Nirriti all infertile lands, cracks and crevices in the ground, caverns, craters and hollow spaces. Despite her destitute and sterile outer nature, Nirriti is every bit as sacred as the other nakshatra devatas. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Purva Ashadha, ruled by Apas

Nakshatra translation former invincible one Devata Apas Devata translation water goddesses Constellation Sagittarius 13.20-26.40 Stars 2 Stellar configuration winnowing basket

Moon in Purva Ashadha: A person born in Purva Ashadha will be a benefactor to those who come under his refuge. He will be lucky, popular and a sagacious person.

The Apas are river goddesses depicted as the seven sacred rivers of northern India, the Sapta Sindhus (seven streams). They are extolled as caretakers and nurturers of the earth, gods and mankind. Their Vedic epithets are derived from various connotations of the term mother, such as Matris (mothers), Ambas (good mothers) and Janitris (generous mothers). The Apas goddesses are implored for fertility and procreative strength and, elsewhere, eulogized for their invigorating and inspiring nature.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Uttara Ashadha, ruled by Vishvadevas

Nakshatra translation latter invincible one Devata Vishvadevas Devata translation all the gods Constellation Sagittarius-Capricorn 26.40-10.00 Stars 2 Stellar configuration small cot or bed

Moon in Uttara Ashadha: One born in Uttara Ashadha will have many friends and possess a tall obese body. He will be a vanquisher, happy, brave person and show good manners.

So grand is Uttara Ashadha (latter victory) that all the gods (collectively called the Vishvadevas) are rulers over this most auspicious space in the sky.

The Vedas are replete with legends of heroic battles between the Vishvadevas and asuras (demons). Desiring the knowledge of the Soma sacrifice, the demons enter into fierce battels against the gods. Yet, the vigilant Vishvadevas devise countless protocols for concealing the rites, rituals and of this most sanctified of yajnas. Legend has it that one such protocol requires the Vishvadevas to join hands in a circle and take a solemn oath to remain firm in body and mind and unified in purpose. United in this way, the gods are victorious against malevolent forces in the universe. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Shravana, ruled by Vishnu

Nakshatra translation to hear Devata Vishnu Devata translation god of sustenance Constellation Capricorn 10.00-23.20 Stars 3 Stellar configuration three footprints

Moon in Shravana: One born in Shravana nakshatra will be gratified, handsome, benevolent and meritorious and a wealthy person with many children.

Exalted Vishnu is the divine ruler of Shravana nakshatra. He is famed for his three wide strides that create space for the realms of earth, mid-space and heaven to form. With these same strides, Vishnu imprints cosmic law and universal truths upon the universe. For such grand accolades, the gods praise and revere Lord Vishnu.

The striding of Vishnu through the cosmos offers an astonishing glimpse into creation as mystically envisioned by the ancient Vedic rishis. By all such accounts, the birth of the universe occurs in a sequential and organized manner (Vishnu strides thrice in a row). At its core is a powerful force (Vishnu strides mightily) of great velocity (Vishnu strides quickly) and breadth (Vishnu strides with great expanse). The realms are birthed consecutively; first earth, then the atmosphere, then heaven. Each subsequent realm is vastly larger than the previous, for Vishnu and his strides grow exponentially with each footstep. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Dhanishta, ruled by Vasus

Nakshatra translation very rich or famous Devata Vasus Devata translation light beings Constellation Capricorn-Aquarius 23.20-6.40 Stars 4 Stellar configuration diamond

Moon in Dhanishta: A person born in Dhanishta nakshatra will be a lover of music, respected by his friends, possessed of gold and precious stones. He will protect and shelter many people.

The Vasus are a group of eight godheads. They represent the five elements and the stars, sun and moon deified. The terrestrial realm is their sphere of action. Having fashioned the earth as a dwelling place for mankind, the Vasus are renowned for their adeptness in earthly matters.

The stellar configuration of Dhanishta (very rich) is aptly that of a diamond, for the Vasus bestow prosperity upon devotees. This makes Dhanishta one of a handful of nakshatras that represent mundane prosperity, wealth and fame. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Shatabhishak, ruled by Varuna

Nakshatra translation 100 physicians Devata Varuna Devata translation lord of the ocean Constellation Aquarius 6.40-20.00 Stars 100+ Stellar configuration 100+ flowers

Moon in Shatabhishak: A person born in Shatabhishak will be a miser, rich and longing for others’ wives. He will have a great desire to live in a foreign land.

Varuna is the lord of the ocean and divine ruler of Shatabhishak. He is reputed for his noose that violently confiscates each wrongdoer with minute and exacting precision. A net of one hundred shackles and a staff are his other icons. Both are symbols of authority and command.

Shatabhishak means ‘one hundred physicians’. Varuna is said to inflict diseases that require one hundred physicians to cure upon the one who refuses to live a dharmic life. If the sufferer makes atonements, Varuna returns him or her to a state of health and well-being.

Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Purva Bhadrapada, ruled by Aja Ekapad

Nakshatra translation former lucky feet Devata Aja Ekapad Devata translation the one-footed god Constellation Aquarius-Pisces 20.00-3.20 Stars 2 Stellar configuration front legs of funeral cot

Moon in Purva : One born in Purva Bhadra will be an eloquent speaker, comfortable and blessed with sons. He will acquire abundant gold and spend his time in futility.

Translated as ‘the one-legged one’, Aja Ekapada is an arcane serpent-god of the mid- region and the divine ruler of Purva Bhadrapada. He is likened to atmospheric fire in the form of lightning, i.e., a one-legged bolt of fire. Aja Ekapada and Ahirbudhnya (devata ruler of Uttara Bhadrapada) are symbolic of death and rebirth. The combined stellar configuration of Purva Bhadrapada and Uttara Bhadrapada is a funeral cot. Chapter 17: Nakshatras and their Devatas Uttara Bhadrapada, ruled by Ahirbudhnya

Nakshatra translation latter lucky feet Devata Ahirbudhnya Devata translation cloud serpent Constellation Pisces 3.20-16.40 Stars 2 Stellar configuration hind legs of funeral cot

Moon in Uttara Bhadra: A person born in Uttara Bhadra nakshatra will be of fair complexion, powerful, pious and will win over his enemies. He will be effectual like God and a courageous person.

Ahirbudhnya (cloud serpent) is an atmospheric serpent closely associated with Aja Ekapada, devata ruler of Purva Bhadrapada. Aja Ekapada symbolizes a bolt of lightning, while Ahirbudhnya is the fierce rain shower that follows a thunder storm. Rain water is the principal agent used for ceremonial anointments, initiations and purifications. This makes Uttara Bhadrapada an intense region of the sky and one related to radical life changes and rebirths.

Revati, ruled by Pushan

Nakshatra translation to nourish Devata Pushan Devata translation to increase or grow Constellation Pisces 16.40-30.00 Stars 32 Stellar configuration fish

Moon in Revati: One born in Revati nakshatra will have a perfect body and will be pious, proficient, gentle and brave. He will be accomplished in wealth and food grains.

Pushan is the divine ruler of Revati and shepherd amongst the gods. With his leather-thronged goad, Pushan gently herds animals along the path. Should one be lost, Pushan journeys the dangerous backroads and rocky terrains, guiding the animal back to the path. With flawless navigational skills, this alert and skillful guide also shepherds animals along the least dangerous path. When Pushan happens upon a crossroads (venue for spirits and black magic), he artfully maneuvers the animal around the ill-fated locale, avoiding mishaps and foul play. Should there be danger from robbers, liars or wolves, count on Pushan to make the road traversable.

This beloved god extends the same tender care to injured animals. With his curative powers, Pushan heals the sheep with a broken leg and the cow who has fallen ill.