Jyotiṣa Basics: Graha & Rāśi

What is a Graha?

In contemporary understanding, the term Graha has been losely translated as planet, which seems to lack significance when compared to its Sanskrit counterpart. Our ancient sages possessed remarkable intelligence, and every term they employed carries profound meanings concealed within. The term Graha also imparts substantial significance, even if it is not immediately apparent on the surface. It is only through the contemplation of the seekers of Jyotiṣa Śāstra that these secrets come to light.

The Sanskrit term Graha originates from the Dhātu — गृह्णाति, which translates to seize or hold. This interpretation is indeed quite logical, as the planets exert influence over humans during their respective Daśā periods. This influence occurs because the human body is composed of Pañca Tattva — the five primordial elements. Furthermore, human nature is categorized into three qualities of Sattva, Rajasa, and Tamasa. These five elements and three qualities are governed by the Grahas. Consequently, the Graha exert direct control over humans, a reality that may not be discernible to the naked eye, yet undeniably exists! As the Daśā changes, there is a corresponding shift in behavioral patterns, character, environment, and the individuals we encounter, among other factors. According to Daivajñabharanam, even dietary habits are affected by the Graha Daśā. Nevertheless, it necessitates a keen observation to notice these changes.

What is a Rāśi?

The Bhacakra (celestial wheel) represents the complete zodiacal circle, encompassing the entire ecliptic path. True to its name where "Cakra" means wheel or circle, the Bhacakra spans a complete circular arc of 360 degrees. The Bhacakra is primarily divided into 12 Rāśi-s (zodiacal signs). Calculation of each Rāśi is given as follows —

Total span: 360°

Number of divisions: 12

Arc of each Rāśi: 360° ÷ 12 = 30°

According to Śrī Varāhamihira, the term Rāśi is known by several synonymous names:

- Kṣetra (field or region)

- Griha (house)

- Ṛkṣa (constellation)

- Bha (celestial division)

- Bhavana (dwelling or house)

The Bhacakra is simultaneously divided into 27 Nakṣatra-s (lunar mansions or asterisms). Calculation of each Nakṣatra is given as follows —

Total span: 360°

Number of divisions: 27

Arc of each Nakṣatra: 360° ÷ 27 = 13° 20'

Each Nakṣatra is further subdivided into 4 Pada-s, creating an even more precise system of celestial measurement. Calculation of each Pada is given as follows —

Arc of one Nakṣatra: 13° 20'

Number of Pada-s per Nakṣatra: 4

Arc of each Pada: 13° 20' ÷ 4 = 3° 20'

Hence, within each Rāśi —

Number of Nakṣatra Pada-s: 30° ÷ 3° 20' = 9 Pada-s

Number of complete Nakṣatra-s: 30° ÷ 13° 20' = 2¼ Nakṣatra-s

This means each zodiacal sign encompasses exactly nine quarters of the Nakṣatra system, or two full Nakṣatra-s plus one additional Pada (one-quarter of the third Nakṣatra).

1. Bhacakra (complete circle): 360°

2. Rāśi (12 divisions): 30° each

3. Nakṣatra (27 divisions): 13° 20' each

4. Pada (108 total divisions): 3° 20' each

Sūrya being the King chose to take possession of Simha, whereas Candra, the Queen, opted to take ownership of Karka. Later, the rest of the planets according to their speeds, approached Sūrya and Candra for allotment of the rest of the signs. Budha, the swiftest of the Tārā Graha-s, acquired Kanyā from Surya and Mithuna from Candra. Śukra was granted dominion over Tulā and Vrshabha. Kuja received Vṛścika and Meṣa, while Guru was assigned Dhanu and Mīna. Śani, the slowest of all the planets, was allocated Makara and Kumbha.

Image Source: Pinterest.

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