WHAT IS VEDIC ASTROLOGY?

From now on, every month, I will be discussing with you here the whispers of the Sky, as interpreted through Vedic Astrology. How do the movements of celestial bodies and the energy they emit affect us, and why do they bring abundance and prosperity to some, while imposing restrictions and responsibilities on others? Let us remember that for those who act with virtue and a sense of responsibility, the planetary movements in the sky do not bring great difficulties. Our experiences are the result of our minds and past karmas.

The ancient Indian scriptures, the Vedas, which date back to around 1500 BCE, say, "Our karma is intricately connected to the positions of the stars and planets."

The main difference between Western and Vedic Astrology is how they observe the constellations from Earth.

Around 2000 years ago, Western and Eastern astrologers followed and predicted horoscopes along the ecliptic plane together. However, as the Earth rotates around its axis, it undergoes a slight wobble. This wobble tilts the Earth and also shifts the ecliptic plane.

The ecliptic plane has shifted enough over the last 2000 years, and the difference has reached 24 degrees. As a result, the position of the Sun and planets according to the zodiac signs is now different from the old ecliptic plane.

Vedic Astrology always takes this shift into account and uses the Sidereal Zodiac system based on the updated ecliptic path. Western astrology, on the other hand, continues to use the symbolic Tropical System, which differs from the astronomical one. That’s why if you are a Gemini in Western astrology, you might be a Taurus in Vedic astrology.

The core principles also differ significantly. In Vedic Astrology, concepts like karma, reincarnation, and dharma (correct, virtuous behavior) play a significant role in interpretations. Western Astrology, however, has its roots in Hellenistic and ancient Greek philosophy and traditions, where "karma" and "past life" concepts are debated.

In addition, the Moon, the celestial body closest to the Earth, holds great importance in Vedic Astrology. In contrast to Western astrology’s emphasis on the Sun, Vedic astrology prioritizes the Moon. As the Moon is the closest celestial body to Earth, it symbolizes the mind, emotions, the land we are born in, and the mother. Whether the Moon is dark or illuminated in the birth chart has the most significant energetic influence on our lives and affects our emotions.

I wish you all light-filled and illuminated days until we meet again in the next article.