आधिथ्याय छ सोमाय मङलाय बुधाय च -
गुरु सुक्र सनैभ्यस छ रागवे केथवे नमह
Aadhidhyaa cha Somaaya-Mangalaaya-Bhudhaaya cha
Guru- Sukhra -Sanaibhyas Cha Raagave -Kethave Namah
As per Hindu beliefs, these nine spacial bodies exert their influences at various points in time during a man's life cycle. Hindus have created very creative representations & detailed worship methods for each planet and extend it to preparing the birth chart of each person, based on the planetary positions as at the time of birth. Sages have also evolved Astro-predictions (Jyothish Sastra) based on the planetary movements (Kochara) at any point in time.
These include Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangala/Angaraka), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Guru/Brihaspathi), Venus (Sukra), Saturn (Shani) as well as two shadow planets, Lunar Ascending Node (Rahu) and Lunar Descending Node (Ketu).
It is a wonder that without any instrumentation assistance for distant viewing, ancient Rishis of India were able to understand and be aware of the presence of these planetary bodies in motion around the Sun and they were able to predict precisely how these planets moved around in space.
South Indian temples, especially Lord Shiva temples, invariable house the Navagraha idols in certain set patterns. It is interesting to note that all Navagraha idols are kept mainly in Shiva temples as it is widely believed the Lord Shiva controls all the planets in space. Legend says that all the Grahas did Tapasya requesting favours from Lord Shiva and obtained His blessings to get rid of their own curses and were elevated to the position of Grahas in Space. Lord Shiva, in the form of Shiv lingam was worshipped by these 9 planets in Varanasi(Kashi), Tamilnadu, Karnataka, Uttarpradesh, Maharastra, and in Andrapradesh.
There are two types of patterns, one being Agama Sastra and other being as per Vaidhika Prathishta.
In Agama Pradishta, Surya occupies the central place, Chandra on Surya’s east, Budha on his south, Brihaspati on his west, Shukra on his north, Mangala on his south-east, Shani on his south-west, Rahu on north-west and Ketu in the north-east. Temples such as Suryanar temple, Tiruvidaimarudur, Tiruvaiyaru and Tirucchirappalli follow this system.
In Vaidika Pradishta, Surya is still in the centre, but Shukra is in the east, Mangala in the south, Shani in the west, Brihaspati in the north, Chandra in the south-east, Rahu in the south-west, Ketu in the north-west and Budha in the north-east.
You will find from the above picture that none of the Nine grahas are situated face-to-face in the pedestals in the temples.
Yagna Valkiya Smriti (about AD 300 or later) explains the features of these planets and the need for the worship of the planets (grahas) according to Hindu tradition, as stated below.
“One should specially worship that (planet) which, and whenever, it is cruel (malefic) to him”. This book discusses in detail about the effects of every planet on the life of an individual or on the society on the whole.
TEMPLES FOR NAVAGRAHAS
Let us have a look at the Navagraha temples in India.
1. Suryanar Koil – (Sun God)
जपाकुसुमसंकाशं काश्यपेयं महाद्युतिम् ।
तमोऽरिं सर्वपापघ्नं प्रणतोऽस्मि दिवाकरम् ॥
Japaa Kusuma Sankasham Kaashyapeyam Maha Dyuthim
Tamo Arim Sarva Paapaghnaam Pranatosmi Divaakaram
Listen to Navagraha Krithi "Suryamurthe" - Song by Bombay Jayashree
ADITYA HRIDHAYAM SLOKAMSage Agasthya advised Sri Rama to recite this prayer on Sun God, thrice before going to the battle field with Ravana. The result was known to all. For your benefit, I am sharing the link of this Slokam, recited by Soolamangalam Sisters:
Other Sun temples in India
There are several of them spread all over India but the most striking of them all is the Sun Temple in Konark, Orissa, near Puri, (also known as the Black Pagoda) - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are 12 famous Sun Temples in India. You can view them all, click the following link:
There is a Navagraha Temple in Guwahati, housing all the nine planetary Deities, keeping Sun at the centre. This temple is very significant to astrology, which plays a big role in the rituals of Hinduism- from deciding on a holy time to perform a task, to judging the compatibility of a couple.
Following is the Chandra Stotram by Sage Vyasa:दधिशङ्खतुषाराभं क्षीरोदार्णवसंभवम् । नमामि शशिनं सोमं शम्भोर्मुकुटभूषणम् ॥Dadhi Shankha Tusha Raabham Kshiiro Dhaarnava Sambhavam
Namaami Shashinam Somam Shambor Mukutha Bhushanam
Meaning: The one who has the hue of curd and icebergs, who rose from Ksheasagar and who adorns the head of Lord Siva. I prostrate to the Moon, the ruling deity of the soma juice. (Gemstone is Pearl)The main Deity is Kailasanathar, Lord Shiva. During the full moon day in the Tamil month of Panguni, i.e., between March and April, the rays of moon fall on Lord Shiva‘s Linga idol, the phenomenon which you can never see in any part of the world. Poojas on Full Moon days and Mondays are considered to be very special. Chandra was the son of Athri Maharishi and Anasūyā and he therefore belongs to the Athri-gotra (Athreya).Moon controls our minds. The world 'Lunatic' is connected with this aspect of lunar moon. The Mythological story can be heard in the following link:Listen to the Navagraha Krithi "Chandram Bajamanase" - by Bombay Jayashree
Following are the Moon temples, either worshiped by moon or established by moon:
i. Thingaloor Kailasanathar temple (thingal in tamil means moon)
ii. Vijayasanar temple, Thiruvaragunamangai (One among Navathirupathi temples of Tirunelveli and one among 108 dhivyadesams)
iii. Kailasanathar temple - Cheran Mahadevi (One among Nava Kailasa sthalams in and around Tirunelveli)
iv. Sri Naadhan Kovil / Nandhipura Vinnagaram - (one among dhivyadesams in Kumbakonam)
3. Vaitheeswaran Koil – (Chevvai) / Mars
Following is the Angaraha Stotram by Sage Vyasa:Dharani Garbha Sambhuutham Vidyuth Kanthi Samaprabham
Kumaaram Shakti Hastham Cha Mangalam Pranamaamyaham
Meaning: I pray to Mars, born of Earth (son of Bhooma Devi), His effulgence is like that of lightning. He is called Kumara, n who holds in his hand weapon called Shakti. (Gemstone is coral).
This temple is 2000 years old and houses Lord Muruga, the Lord of Sevai or Mars. The original name of this place is "Pullirukkuvelur", the place where Jatayu lived and where the Rig Veda was worshipped. ('Pul' means Bird, 'Irukku' refers to Rig and Velur- refers to Lord Muruga's Vel. This place is revered as the headquarters of medical science, as there were remedial measures for around 4448 diseases. In addition, the two prominent features are, this is the temple for Navagraha planet Mars/ Chevvai and this is the place where the father of Indian Medicine Dhanvantri attained salvation. The main Deity is Lord Shiva as 'Vaidyanathan swami', believed to have cured Leprosy of Angaraha, the Mars. The town is famous for Palm-leaf astrology and naadi astrology. The Ganeśa Purāṇa spells out that Mars is the son of Bharadvāja. His wife is Jwalini. His garment and garland are red and the ornaments made of coral. His mount is a ratha that is fitted with a red banner and pulled by saffron coloured eight goats.
The Mythological story of Chevvai can be heard in this link:Listen to the Navagraha Krithi "Angaraka masrayamyaham" - Bombay Jayashree
Other Mars temples in India includes highly revered shrine - Mangalnath Mandir, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The temple, which opens to a vast expanses of the Shipra River, offers an amazing sense of tranquillity:
4. Thiruvenkadu – Budhan / Mercury:
Priyangu Kalikaashyamam Rupenaa Pratimam Budham
Sowmyam Sowmya Guno Petham Tam Budham PranamaamyahamMeaning: I pray to Mercury, who has a dark blue complexion and whose beauty is incomparable. He possesses gentle, charming qualities. Gemstone is emerald.The Lord of this place is Lord Shiva as Swedaranyeswarar or Aabhadsahayeswarar, where Bhudan is housed. Bhudan is the controller of Intelligence and wisdom. The Nandhi in the temple has nine holes in its body. This refers to the history that when the demon Surapadman came to fight with Lord Shiva here, the Bull interfered and got injured. Because of this, Lord Shiva became furious and took the incarnation of Agora Moorthy to destroy the demon. This temple is also called as Varanasi of South and certain final rites of the dead are performed for the departed souls here. Bhudhan is the son of Chandra through his beloved wife Rohinī. He is said to have married, Ilā, daughter of Manu Vaivasvata and through her gave birth to Purūravas, the progenitor of the lunar race including the Yādavas (Vāsudeva, Kṛṣṇa, Balarāma), as well as Pauravas (Santanu, Pāṇḍu, Pāṇḍavas and Gauravas). Like the moon, Bhudha was born in the Athreya-gotra.The Mythological story of Bhudha can be heard in this link:Listen to the Navagraha Krithi "Bhudhamashrayami" - by Bombay Jayashree5. Alangudi – Guru / Jupiter
Following is the Guru Stotram by Sage Vyasa:Devaanaam Cha Rishii Naamcha Gurum Kanchana Sannibham
Buddhi Bhuutam Trilokesham Tham Namami BruhaspathimMeaning: I pray to Jupiter, the preceptor of gods and rishis, intellect incarnate, lord of the three worlds. Gemstone is Pukhraj (yellow sapphire).The Alangudi temple is said to exist from time immemorial. Kasi Aaranyam, Thiru erumpoolai are the other names for this place. Guru is the symbol of knowledge and wisdom and is worshipped here as Lord Dakshinamurthy, Lord Shiva, facing the South direction. Also known as Guru and Aṅgīras, he is the preceptor of the gods. In the Rigveda Brihaspati and Brahmanaspati are synonymous. He came to be the purohita (family priest) of the gods and is at times considered the “the father of the gods”. He is considered also as the son of Brahma.The Mythological story can be heard in this link:Listen to the Navagraha Krithi "Brihaspathe"- by Bombay Jayashree6. Kanjanoor – Sukran / Venus, the Guru of Demons.
Following is the Sukra Stotram by Sage Vyasa:हिमकुन्दमृणालाभं दैत्यानां परमं गुरुम् । सर्वशास्त्रप्रवक्तारं भार्गवं प्रणमाम्यहम् ॥Hima Kundha Mruna Laabham Daithyaanaam Paramam Gurum
Sarva Shastra Pravaktharam Bharghavam PranamaamyahamMeaning: I pray to Venus, the son of Bhagu. He is the spiritual master of demons, promulgator of all learning, he who shines like the fiber of snow-white jasmine. Gemstone is diamond.The temple is so significant that Lord Shiva blessed Parasara Muni, a renowned saint of the ancient ages, with His cosmic dance. This sacred place is also called as Palasa Vanam or Agni Sthalam and so the presiding deity is called as Agneeswarar. It is believed that Lord Brahma witnessed the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva at this sacred place. Sukran is the symbol of prosperity and happiness. He is the son of Sage Bruhu and therefore belongs to Bhargava Gothram. He is the guru of all Asuras. Mahabali was his descendent. Sukra lost one of his eyes while ministering the asvayaga of Mahabali and the divinity that blinded him was Vamana/Viṣṇu.The Mythological story can be heard in this link:Listen to Navagraha Krithi "Shri Shukra" - by Bombay Jayashree7. Thirunallar – Shani Bagwan / Saturn
Following is the Shani Stotram by Sage Vyasa:नीलांजनसमाभासं रविपुत्रं यमाग्रजम् ।छायामार्तण्डसंभूतं तं नमामि शनैश्चरम् ॥Neelaanjana Samaabhasam Raviputhram Yamaagrajam
Chhaya Marthanda Sambhutham Tham Namaami ShanaishcharamMeaning: The one who is dark blue in complexion, who is son of Surya and his wife Chaya, who is elder brother of Yama. The slow moving, I prostrate that Shaneeswara. Gemstone is blue Sapphire.
The interesting story connected to this temple is that the celestial Gods wanted to marry the Princess of the Nishadha Kingdom, Damayanthi. But she married another King called Nalan. The furious Devas complained to Saneeswar and he made Nalan’s life miserable for seven and half years. At last, Nalan arrived at Thirunallar and worshipped Lord Shiva residing there in the name of Lord Dharbaranyeswarar. He got rid of all his problems and got a promise from Lord Saneeswara that whoever comes to this place and worships him, should not be affected by any difficulties. Saneeswar is the symbol of will power and courage. Sani is considered to be the son of Sūrya and Chaayaa devi. Śanaiścara (“slow-moving”) is the most dreaded among the planetary deities. It is believed that his eyes are all the time tied with a black piece of cloth so that his dhriṣṭi (“view”) does not fall on any one, lest it may do him harm. This way he got the nicknames, Kruradris and Kruralochana.
The Mythological story can be heard in this link:Listen to Navagraha Krithi "Divakara Thanujam Sanaishwaram" - by Bombay Jayashree:
One of the most revered deities of Hindu Mythology, Lord Shani is widely worshipped in the country. He is the only planetary deity who is revered as "Sani Bhagavan" or "Sani Eswaran", equating him to higher positions, as compared to the other planets. The son of Surya and Chhaya Devi, Lord Shani is believed to be the God of karma and justice. He hails from the Kaśyapa-gotra. He is black in colour.
There are a lot of temples dedicated to Lord Shani in India. Let us see some of them:
Shani Shinganapur, Maharashtra
This is a village where the homes have no doors and no locks? The people residing here are followers of Lord Shani and they believe that there is no need for any security than Lord Shani. According to a 300-year-old legend, a black slab was found on the shores of Panasnala River which once flowed through the village. When the locals touched the slab, blood started to ooze out of it. Lord Shani is said to have appeared in the dream of the village head and told him that the slab is his own idol and should be kept in the village. The head was asked to never cover the rock as he won't be able to see the village properly. The villagers then installed it on a platform in the village and started worshipping it. People from All over the country visit this village to get the blessing of Saneeshwar.
Shanichara, Madhya Pradesh:
Another revered temple dedicated to Lord Shani, the Shanichara temple is visited by devotees from all over the world. According to the legend, when Lord Shani was thrown by Lord Hanuman from Lanka, he came and fell at this place. The temple has a temple of Lord Shani which was brought from Lanka. People believe that taking a parikarma of the Shani Parvat here can help them get relief from the curse of Lord Shani Dev.
8. Tirunageshwaram – Rahu
Following is the Raghu Stotram by Sage Vyasa:अर्धकायं महावीर्यं चन्द्रादित्यविमर्दनम् । सिंहिकागर्भसंभूतं तं राहुं प्रणमाम्यहम् ॥Ardha Kaayam Mahaa Viiryan Chandraadhithya Vimardhanam
Sinhikaa Garbha Sambhutam Tham Rahum Prana MaamyahamMeaning: I pray to Rahu, the son of Simhika, having half a body, of extraordinary strength, the eclipser of the Moon and the Sun. Gemstone is Gomed (Hessonite).Once there was a saint Suseelar, whose son was attacked by the Celestial serpent Dakkagan. Saint Suseelar cursed him to take birth as a human being on earth. After his hard penance towards Lord Shiva, he worshipped Him in the form of an idol Lingam at Thirunageshwaram and got relieved from His curse. As lord Raghu himself got his curse relieved, this place became so sacred with the Naganatha Swamy as the presiding deity and the temple has become very popular among the devotees across the country. In this temple, Lord Raghu is present in the form of Human being with his two consorts. One can witness that whenever milk is anointed to the idol of Rahu, during the Raghu Kalam, the milk turns into blue colour.
The literal meaning of rāhu is “eclipse”. Rāhu is a demon who swallows the sun and moon, obscures their rays and causes the eclipses. He was the son of Viprachitta and Siṃhikā, the daughter of Kasyapa. Kethu is his brother. When the amṛta was obtained by the conjointed efforts of the gods and demons, Rāhu and Ketu understood the foul-play of Mohinī who distributed the nector and in disguise drank a portion of the nectar. Mohinī is said to have nipped their heads and placed it alternatively. Thus Rāhu got the head of a man and Ketu the head of a snake.
9. Keezhaperumpallam – Kethu
Following is the Kethu Stotram by Sage Vyasa:पलाशपुष्पसंकाशं तारकाग्रहमस्तकम् । रौद्रं रौद्रात्मकं घोरं तं केतुं प्रणमाम्यहम् ॥Palaasha Pushpa Sankaasham Thaarakaa Graha MasthakamRowdram Rowdraathmakam Ghoram Tham Kethum PranamaamyahamMeaning: I pray to Ketu, who has the appearance of Palaasha flower, the head of stars and planets. He is violent and fearsome. Gemstone is Lasniya (Cat’s Eye).The historic event referred to this temple is the churning of ocean to give the nectar to celestial Gods. Vasuki was the serpent used for the churning operation and at one point it got exhausted and spit venom. To protect the celestial Gods from consuming the poison, Lord Shiva Himself took the poison. For Her mistake, Vasuki did a penance and Lord Shiva graced with His blessings. From then on, this particular temple is dedicated to Lord Ketu in the orm of a snake. Here Ketu is in the form of human body and serpent head. Worshipped for excellence in education and family prosperity, Ketu generally refers to the refinement process of spiritual inclination and supernatural influences.
The Mythological story can be heard in this link:
ASTRONOMY OF NAVAGRAHAS"A deeper examination of Vedic literature reveals a profound tradition of astronomical observation that was previously overlooked, because it was hidden in religious symbolism and not clearly stated in rational terms"- says David Fawley, American Institute of Vedic Studies, Santa Fe, USA, July 1994.He emphasised the Hindu knowledge of the Planets and Nakshtras during Vedic period, 2000 B.C. He wonders how the ancient sages were able to accurately divide the moon's constellations into 27 Nakshatra positions, despite many of them being very dim, almost invisible to naked eye. The Moon was considered as a male force, while the Nakshatras, as daughters of Daksha and wives of the Moon, were considered as feminine forces. He points out that there is mention of 33 wives of the moon, which might include the planets as well, in a hidden way.Vedic astronomy employs a 60 year cycle. Each planet is related to a Vedic Rishi family as well as to certain deities. He rules out the influence of these knowledge from other foreign countries such as Roman or Greek, since the names of the planets is purely Hindu names. Vishnu is associated with Mercury, Skanda with Mars and so also Brihaspati or Guru with Jupiter, Sanaishara with Saturn, Sukra with Venus etc. Sages like Angirasa, Brihus, Athri were often associated with the planets. Vedic literature such as the Surya Siddhanta serve as the astronomical texts.We should clearly understand the classification made by Hindu Astrologers on what they exactly meant by the word "Graha". Graha means 'that which attracts, holds or controls'. All those heavenly bodies, which were controlling life on Earth were classified as Grahas. The word "Graha" also means "that which moves around in space". This explains why Sun, Moon, Raaghu and Kethu were added as Grahas, though they were not to be classified as planets in any astronomical sense.
If you look at the sky, the position of stars is always fixed. It is the position of Grahas that keeps changing because of their near vicinity to Earth. Not only planets, but even Sun and Moon keep changing their positions in the sky. Rahu and Ketu are classified as Chaya-Graha (meaning shadow grahas, not the real ones). Rahu and Ketu are actually the points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they travel in the celestial sphere. Rahu is the north lunar node and Ketu is the south lunar node. It is also a well known fact that eclipses occur when Sun and Moon are at one of these lunar nodes (Rahu or Ketu). Hence you have this story in India about Rahu swallowing the Sun. Rahu and Ketu are included in the list of Grahas, even though they don’t have any physical presence in the sky. This is because their positions were used in Indian astronomy to calculate the occurrence of eclipses. Nevertheless all those classified as Grahas move in the sky, and not all are physical bodies, two of them are shadow objects (Chaaya Grahas). Earth is not added as a Graha because, we can't observe earth moving in the sky. We stay on earth, and the definition of a Graha is the one which moves in the sky. Unlike the definition of a planet, whose primary attribute is “motion around the Sun”, Graha has a primary attribute of “influencing life on Earth”.
The Sun gives us energy and keeps Earth in a stable orbit around it, the moon generates tidal force on Earth’s oceans. In the outer zone we have Jupiter and Saturn that shield the life on Earth from most of the incoming comets and asteroids and other giant rocks by attracting them by their huge gravity, without which life on Earth would have never survived. Then we have our immediate neighbours, Mars, Venus, Mercury, that have played a major role during the early days of planet formation, ensuring that Earth remains in the habitable zone of the solar system. Earth is at the right distance from Sun which makes it neither too hot (vaporizing all water) nor too cold (freezing up all the water). Without these planets, Earth probably would have ended up outside the habitable zone, and there would have been no life on Earth! We can therefore understand the influence they exert on life on earth.
There is mention about Raaghu in Rig Veda, hidden in another name 'Svarbhanu' in verse V.40. Atharva veda also mentions Raaghu in verse XIX 6.7,10. Vedic astrology also mentions that the six seasons of spring, summer, rains, autumn, cold and frosty seasons, are controlled by 6 planets, namely, Venus, Mars, Moon, Mercury, Jupiter and Saturn.
Vedic period drew parallel to Agni (Fire) and the planets in many places. Skanda, the deity of Mars, was born out of the Agni from Lord Shiva's third eye. Skanda was born in Kritika Nakshatra, which is ruled by Agni. Skanda had six mothers, the Kritika stars Pleiades and also the seventh which is Uma or Parvathi Devi.
Hindu astrology is closely associated with the number 108. The Rig Veda mentions that the distance between the Sun and Earth is 108 times the diameter of Sun. The diameter of the sun is about 108 times that of the diameter of Earth. The distance between the earth and the moon is likewise 108 times the diameter of the moon. In Vedic astrology there are 12 solar zodiac houses and 9 planets passing through them, 9 x 12 = 108. The Sun and the Moon are connected to the earth by approximately 108 times their own diameters. When you look at the Sun and the Moon from earth they are perceived as the same size, this same size appears because of their distance
The result of the sun and moon having the same ratio between distance and diameter is that they appear to be the nearly identical in size when viewed from the earth, when of course they are not, with the diameter of the sun being over 400 times that of the moon. This fascinating relationship also allows for total solar eclipses, where the moon obscures the sun entirely.
In Vedic Science Astrology, each of the 27 constellations known as Nakshatra is further divided into 4 part, each consisting 3 degrees and 20 minutes; these sections are known as charan or paadam that is considered a step. The total number of 27 constellations multiplied by 4 quarter each totals to 108.
To quote Manoj Chalam, “the ratio of 108 may be the key to finding planets hospitable to life outside of our solar system, just look toward this same size and distance relationship,” 108 is key to our being.
According to Vedic cosmology, the sun is considered the entry point of space. Rig Veda hymn 10.149.1 spells out that the Sun has tied Earth and other planets around itself through attraction and moves them around itself as if a trainer moves newly trained horses holding their reins. The sun is the superior one- the rider, who controls the horses with the reins. Here, the reins represent the rays of the sun. The rider controls his horses and limits their movements. Just like that, the sun limits the movements of the planets with its “Rashmi”. That can be understood now as the gravitational field of the sun.
The moon does not have its own light and it simply reflects the light that the sun emits. Hindu cosmology explains such phenomena through interesting epigrams.The Moon decided to get married and as a wedding gift, the Sun gave his daughter ‘sun rays’ to the Moon. It is in an equally interesting way that the eclipse is explained:"O Sun! When you are blocked by the one whom you gifted your own light, then the earth gets scared by the sudden darkness". When the moon is positioned between the Sun and the Earth, the light of the Sun is temporarily blocked and we experience a blackout or an eclipse on the Earth. This also hints at the traditional practices that people perform special pooja on the day of the eclipse to please the gods, rishis and their ancestors.
Rigveda further says, “The speed of planets is inversely related to the distance of the planets from the sun”. This is perfectly in line with Newton’s Law of Gravitation and Kepler’s Law of Planetary Motion. The modern discoveries are proof of the Vedic verse mentioned in the Rigveda. Similarly, according to Surya Siddhanta, the measuring unit yojana is approximately five miles in modern calculations. In Surya Siddhanta, the diameter of the moon is 2400 miles which is very close to the modern calculation of 2160 miles. The Vedic texts also predicted the distance between the earth and the moon as 258000 miles and the modern distance is 238900 miles.
The creation of the universe in Vedas has been explained in the 129th hymn of the 10th mandala of the Rigveda. It also gives us an insight into the age of the universe according to Vedas.
Astrological Aspects of Navagraha
(Ref: https://www.hinduamerican.org/blog/5-things-to-know-about-vedic-astrology)
Rooted in the Vedas, India’s ancient system of knowledge, Vedic astrology is based on the belief that the stars and planets have a powerful influence on our lives. According to Hindu teachings, life is meant for spiritual growth. This growth is, in part, facilitated by karma, the concept that every thought and action has a corresponding reaction.
The Vedas say that a person’s karma is directly related to the position of the planets and stars, and thus astrology is the method of understanding one’s karma by analyzing these positions. Originally known as jyotish, or “the science of light,” Vedic astrology is considered by many to be the eye of the Vedas, because it is meant to provide guidance to individuals who feel lost or confused on their life’s journey.
Dubbed also as the “science of fate,” astrology is used to understand all aspects of life, including the future success of a particular endeavor, like marriage, moving into a new home, or a business venture. In the past, it was even used as a way of predicting the outcomes of battles in war, or a particular governmental decision. As a result, rulers would often employ astrologers to provide them better insight as to how they could best run their kingdoms.
Looking up from Earth, the sun and planets trace a path along the sky, moving against a backdrop of constellations, or patterns of stars which make up the various astrological signs, like Taurus, Aries, Pisces, etc. When the sun or a particular planet moves in front of a particular pattern of stars, it is said to be in the astrological sign those stars represent. Thus, the ecliptic path the planets take as they pass in front of the twelve signs of astrology is called the zodiac.
About 2,000 years ago, both Western and Vedic astrology followed the planets along this ecliptic path to create horoscopes and make predictions. But as the Earth spins on its axis, it actually experiences a wobble, known as precession. This wobble tilts the Earth, also tilting its ecliptic plane. As a full wobble takes 26,000 years to complete, the ecliptic plane shifts about 1 degree every 72 years.
The ecliptic plane has shifted enough in the last 2,000 years that the position of the sun and planets in relation to the signs no longer matches that of the old ecliptic plane. Vedic astrology takes precession into account and therefore calculates horoscopes based on the updated ecliptic path. Western astrology, however, sticks to the old path, which is more symbolic as opposed to astronomically accurate.
According to modern science, time and space are interconnected to create the fabric in which we exist known as space-time. Large objects, such as planets, affect this fabric, influencing everything around them.
In the book “The Astrology of the Seers,” David Frawley says:
“What we call the planets are no more than points of light in a vast energy network, connected intricately by subtle lines of force, linking the entire solar system into a single organism. Though the planets appear like small points of light in the distance, their energy fields are present on Earth, and they are responsible for many of the formations of the Earth life and of our own bodies and minds.”
Destiny refers to the various situations we encounter in life, while free will is how we react to them through thought and action. How we react creates further karma, which then determines the future set of situations we will be destined to face. In other words, our destiny is created by our free will.
The Vedas recognize four goals of human life, dharma, artha, kama, and moksha. Vedic astrology is the map of our karma. It allows us to more precisely understand our own nature and destiny in order to navigate our lives in fulfilling these four goals. Ultimately, however, it’s about helping us in our spiritual development to achieve the final goal of moksha. By studying our horoscopes, we can better comprehend what energies are affecting us, and how we can best respond to those energies, often with spiritual practices like chanting or ritual worship, to help us in our spiritual growth.
Navagraha Suktam
The prayers to the Navagraha deities occur mainly in Rig Veda and Atharvana Veda. A collection of such relevant prayers along with a ritual beginning is this prayer called Nava Graha Suktham. Click the following link to listen to this:
This is chanted to pacify / attract the nine planets and fulfill our wishes. It is interesting to note that in the prayer, they are not referred to as planets and most of the prayers are addressed to Indra and Agni (fire) who are both very powerful Vedic Gods and not to individual planets. The language and meter used in these Sukthas are in Vedic Sanskrit.
The characteristics of all planets are mentioned By sage Aurabindo and are reproduced.
I. Adithya [Sun God]
Adithya is the Sun God and is the son of Sage Kashyapa and Adhithi. He is strong, splendid, bold, regal, warlike, victorious and energetic. He travels in a chariot drawn by seven horses and his charioteer is Aruna.
Meaning of the Suktham:
Moving through darkness, recognizing the mortal and immortal, the God Savitha (Sun) comes in a golden chariot, and sees the world. We choose the fire as the messenger, because he has the knowledge of entire world, and also because he does perform yajna properly. Thus the lord of all beings sees, the four legged and two legged beings, let him accept the refined sacrificial share, and let the glorious wealth reach the performer of Yajna. Om, my salutations to sun God with all his peripheral gods.
II. Soma [Moon]
He is the moon God and rose from the ocean of milk when it was churned. He is inconsistent, amorous, charming, imaginative and poetical.
Meaning of the Suktham:
Oh moon, grow with us, Let your sparkling fire become united, And be with us in our oblation. Moon has told me, all medicines are in water, and the fire bestows happiness of all, and waters are the panacea. Om, my salutations to moon God with all his peripheral gods.
III. Angaraka [Mars]
This is the planet Mars also called as Kuja and Mangala. He is a politician, soldier, crafty, unscrupulous and tyrannical.
Meaning of the Suktham:
Fire is in the peak of heaven, and is the consort (lord) of the earth, and it sets in motion the essence of waters. Oh! Earth be happy. Give us thornless abode, which is wide and grants us refuge. Through the master of the body, who is friendly, be victorious, in getting that which nourishes our energy, and let he appear to us gracious. Om, my salutations to Mars God with all his peripheral gods.
IV. Budha [Mercury)
He is the planet Mercury. He is the child of Moon. He is speculative, scientific, skilful.
Meaning of the Suktham:
Oh fire, be alert and conscious of us. May you and the Lord of the yajna (Indra) create the offering, make my father feel young again. May he carry out the sacrifice supported by you. Lord Vishnu strode, and placed his feet thrice, and all were established in the dust of his feet. Yajna is the forehead of Vishnu. It is the back of Vishnu. Yajna is the purifier acting for Vishnu. Yajna is the thread of Vishnu. Yajna is the immortal Vishnu. The principle of Vishnu exists and I want to be one with it. Om my salutations to Budha God with all his peripheral gods.
V. Brahaspathi [Jupiiter)
He is the planet Jupiter and the son of sage Angeeras. There is also a story that he is the son of Lord Brahma himself. He was adopted as their teacher by Devas. He is religious, learned, philosopher, wise and a statesman.
Meaning of the Suktham:
Oh Brahaspati, you do not deserve a foe. You shine among holy people, full of power. You shine with the strength born out of truth. You are the great treasure given to us, Oh son of truth. Oh Indra, drink Soma along with Maruths, as you are drinking it along with Sharayata. Be pleased, oh heroic Brahmin. The sages expert in Yagna are eager to serve you. The Sun was born first as an effect of the word. His brilliance spreads over the entire world. He has revealed every thing in various forms. He has revealed the birth place of the visible and invisible. Om, my salutations to Brahaspathi God with all his peripheral gods.
VI. Shukra [Venus]
Shukra is the planet Venus and is the son of sage Brugu. His mother's name is Kavyaa. He was adopted as their Guru by the Asuras (demons) and he guided them in their wars with devas. He is self-willed, lustful, master of state craft, poet, thinker and philosopher.
Meaning of the Suktham:
Bring the fire from the light of the sun, Oh Shukra. Offer the brain as sacred offering in that purified fire, which travels with the knowledge of man, between the births in earth and heavens. The wife of Indra is most blessed among women. So I have heard, for her consort will never die in any battle, and he is the one who is supreme in this universe. Indra is above the entire universe, and all people give him oblations, and let him be our only object of worship. Om, my salutations to Shukra God with all his peripheral gods.
VII. Shanaischara [Saturn]
He is the planet Saturn and the son of Sun God. He is lame and moves slowly (Mandaka). He is cruel, vindictive, gloomy and destructive.
Meaning of the Suktham:
May the Goddess fulfill our wishes like water. May our wishes be satisfied by drinking it. May the waters flow blissfully towards our happiness. Oh creator, there is none like you. You pervade all that has come into being. Let our desires rise to you as prayers. May we become the lord of riches. Oh Yama, come and be seated on this altar, along with sage Angiras. Let the mantras chanted by sages carry and bring thee. And let this offering make you happy, Oh king. Om, my salutations to Saturn God with all his peripheral gods.
VIII. Raghu
He is the Snake son of sage Kasyapa and his Asura wife Simhika. When Vishnu, as mohini, was distributing nectar to devas, he tried to get it by deceit. Lord Vishnu cut him into two. Rahu is the head portion (of the snake) and Kethu the body part. He is violent, head strong, frank and furious.
Meaning of the Suktham:
How will Indra come to us, picturesque one. Oh friend, who is ever waxing and in company of the mighty ones. The variegated cow of knowledge has come and sat before mother in the east and is advancing towards father's heaven. The bondage of Goddess Niruthi is on your neck and should not be unchained. But I will loosen it from the middle part of life and when it is loosened, you can eat Soma, the elixir of the Gods. Om, my salutations to Rahu God with all his peripheral gods.
IX. Kethu
He is the son of sage Kasyapa and his Asura wife Simhika. When Vishnu as Mohini was distributing nectar to devas, he tried to get it by deceit. Lord Vishnu cut him in to two. Rahu is the head portion and Kethu the body part. He is secretive, meditative and unsocial.
Oh strong one, you create strength in the weak. You give form to the one who has no form, and you are born in the dawn of knowledge. Brahma of the Gods is the leader among sages. Sages among the wise are the bull among animals. Hawk among vultures and self-law among delights. So sings Soma, the Moon, among those who purify. Oh fire, you are brilliant and join us with the brilliant treasures, and find the growth through luminous nights. Om, my salutations to Kethu God with all his peripheral gods.
Om my salutations to the nine planet Gods lead by the Sun God.
Let there be peace, let there be peace and let there be peace.
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