bhargavasarma

Symbolism and Significance of Number One - Eka (१)

2012-02-04T22:59:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

“As life unfolds from the cradle to the grave, there is an ever moving pageant of numbers so that one cannot deny the great truth behind them.” In continuation to the earlier post under the label Significance and Symbolism of numbers from a Hindu perspective (link provided below), let us see in the current post what the number ONE signifies.

Obviously, ONE signifies unity, supremacy, paramount, solitary, primary, and the best. It is independent of all other numbers and is the source of all other numbers. It has no divisors. In philosophical context number one stands for the primordial person who was at the beginning and who will be at the end and who is the source of creation. It symbolizes sovereignty of God who is uniquely superior to all. Pythagoras referred to number One as the Monad (philosophy). It symbolized the creator, it was a male number and it represents the strength. Monad is an indivisible impenetrable unit of substance viewed as the basic constituent element of physical reality in the metaphysics (Leibniz). In Yoga one represents oneness with the Divine.

In astro numerology Sun is regarded as the ruler of number ONE. It signifies independence, leadership, self reliance, innovative spirit, will power, optimism, high confidence level, ambition, determination, ego, dominating etc. In Sanskrit number ONE is depicted as Eka (१) meaning Ekaika one or single. It also represents Ekatha meaning unity. In Hindu philosophy ONE (Eka) is one of the numbers which is widely used to describe various entities and events. Let us see some of the terms associated with Eka, what they symbolize and signifies in Hinduism.

Eko VishnuH

Ancient Hindu scripts declare God as ‘Eko Vishnu Mahadbhutah’ that means there is only one gigantic presence in the world and that is none other than Lord Vishnu who is there everywhere. We find a reference to this quote in the phala Sruthi of Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram sloka # 20.

Eko vishhNur mahadbhuutaM pRithag bhuutaany anekashaH |

Trii.n lokaan vyaapya bhuutaatmaa bhu.nkte vishvabhug avyayaH

Matchless and unparalleled in excellence Lord Vishnu the primordial supreme Lord, the mega spirit, pervades the many, various and different objects of three Universes and the three worlds of souls. Lasting as the inner soul of every being, He protects and enjoys all entities in the universe, yet remains unscathed by their faults. He is indestructible.

Eko NaarayanaH

Lord Narayana is ONE. There is no other in any way whatsoever. Narayana Upanishad describe Him as ‘eko nārāyaṇaḥ Na dvitīyo'sti kaścit’ There is only one Narayana, the supreme Lord; the Aadipurusha and there is no one superior to him and is second to none. He is Adviteeya. He is the ultimate truth and the ultimate divine power.

Ekasmai Namah

In Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram (sloka # 78), Lord Vishnu is eulogized as

Eko naikah savah kah Kim yat tat padam-anuttamam

Lokabandhur lokanaatho maadhavo bhakta-vatsalah

Lord Vishnu is unique and no one can be equated with him and there is no one better than him. He cannot be grouped with others as belonging to a particular species. For the seekers of Moksha, He is the one beyond which there is nothing else to be attained.

Ekapade Namah

(Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram sloka # 82)

Chaturmurti chaturbahu chaturvyuha.schaturgatih

Chaturaatma chaturbhaava chaturvedavid.ekapaat

Ekapat indicates the One with a single Paada (leg) or the one with a single foot or manifestation. In Sri Vaamana Avathara, Lord Vishnu in Trivikrama roopa single footedly stood and measured covering the entire Earth and the entire Aakaasa (sky).

Ekaatmane Namah

(Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram sloka # 103)

Pramaanam prananilayah pranabhrut pranajeevanah

Tatvam tatvavidekaatma janma-mruthyu-jaraatigah

Lord Vishnu is the solitary unique soul of outstanding excellence. He is the mega spirit present in every being of the entire universe, heart and soul of the universe and the only Aatman (soul) that existed in the beginning.

Ekaadasi

Ekaadasi is the11th day (1+10) that occurs twice in a Lunar month where ONE stands for Lord Vishnu (Ekasmai Namah). It is regarded as the most favourite day for Lord Sri Hari (Maha Vishnu), Haridina.

“Na Gaayathraya para manthra, na Mathru para dhaivatham,

Na Kaasya param theertham, na Ekadasya samam vratham”

It is said that there is no vratham (austerity) that is equivalent to Ekaadasi vratham.

Ekadanthaaya Namah

Ekadantha is a popular and earliest name of Lord Ganesha. In Sri Ganesha symbolism we find Lord Maha Ganapathi depicted as having a single or broken tusk (Ekadantha). In his second incarnation as Ekadantha, Lord Ganesha defeated demon Madaasura and his weakness Mada (drunkenness, arrogance). This form of Ganesha signifies readiness for sacrifice to complete any accepted task. This we find when he broke his tusk to complete scripting of Mahabharata while dictated by Sage Sri Veda Vyasa. He is regarded as an embodiment of wisdom. There is also another legend behind Ekadantha, according to which, Lord Ganesha’s tusk got broken while confronting with Lord Parashurama.

Ekaakshara Manthra

Om (ऒंम्) the Pranava is a single syllable manthra - Ekaakshara which is Parabrahma Swaroopam that is eternal. We find several references in this regard. In Bhagawadgeeta 8th Canto - sloka # 13 it is referred to as Aum Ityekaksharam Brahma. In Rigveda Sandhyavandana while invoking Goddess Gayathri it is recited as Aum Ityekaksharam Brahma. In Narayana Upanishad also we find such reference as Aum Ityekaksharam. Om is the one Eternal Syllable of which all that exists is but the development. The past, present and the future are all included in this one sound,and all that exists beyond the forms of time is also implied in the word Om.

In Hindu spirituality we find several beeja manthras which are of Ekaakshara (single syllable) out of which, one of the most popular is that of Lord Maha Ganapathi (Gam).

Ekachakradharam Devam (Suryaashtakam)

Bandhooka pushpasankaasham harakundala bhooshitam

Ekachakradharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

In Suryaashtakam sung by Samba (son of Lord Sri Krishna and Jambavathi Devi) we find Sun God being described as Ekachakradharam Devam, the one who is God who has one wheel to his chariot. It is said that the chariot of Sun God has only one wheel that represents kalachakra. Entire kala-chakra, or wheel of time, is established on the wheel of the sun-god's chariot.This wheel is known as Samvatsara.

Ekaambareshwara

Lord Shiva at the famous Kanchi temple is known as Ekaambareshwara meaning the Lord of Mango tree. It was the ancient Mango tree under which Goddess Parvathi was doing penance. Lord Shiva considered as an embodiment of Pancha Bhoothas, five prime elements of nature (Aakasa, Vayu, Prithvi, Jala and Agni) the Shiva Linga at Kanchi Kshethra is referred to as Prithvi Linga.

Ekamukhi Rudraksha

Rudraksha botanically known as Elaeocarplus Ganitras Roxb are the seeds of Rudraksha fruits from Rudraksha trees.Traditionally we find Hindus using Rudraksha since ages and they are said to have originated (manifested) from the tears that have fallen from eyes of Lord Rudra. They are used not only for religious or spiritual purposes but are also used on health grounds. It is believed to have powerful electromagnetic properties in controlling stress levels, hypertension and induce tranquil feeling in the wearer.These properties are said to vary for different facets (mukhi). There are several facets of Rudraksha out of which one which is said to be rare and very powerful is Ekamukhi Rudraksha the one with single facet.

Ekapatni vratha

Ekapatni Vratha in the present day context known as monogamy being loyal and committed to only one wife is a unique characteristic feature expected of a genuine householder. Lord Sri Rama who is a personification of virtues and a role model even today and for the countless ages is the best example for Ekapatni Vratha who committed himself only to Goddess Sita Devi.

Ekalavya

In the epic Mahabharatha we find a character by name Ekalavya a tribal king who aspired to learn archery under the guidance of Dronacharya but was denied. Later on Ekalavya made a self study in the visual presence (image) of Dronacharya.

Ekanaadi

In Hindu astrology related to matching of charts for marriage, we find a concept known as Kuta agreement based on the birth stars of the two charts, where one of the factors of Kuta agreement is Naadi. It is assumed that Naadi Kuta has special reference to the health of the couple and implied to take cognizance of genetic compatibility. In astrological terms Naadi signifies the pulse and all the constellations (Nakshathras) are divided into three groups which in Ayurvedic terminology known as Vaatha, Pitta, and Kapha or Sleshma. These three groups or Naadis are ruled by different constellations. In matching the charts it is ensured that Naadi of both the boy and the girl fall in different groups. If it is in the same group it is called as Ekanaadi and such cases are not generally approved.

Ekodara means brother or sister born of the same womb.

Ekakana Jeevi means unicellular organism

Ekachattraadhipathya means emperor, unchallenged sole rule.

Ekabhukta means taking meals only once in a day. It is one of the austerities that is generally observed during certain specific periods like Chaturmasam, Adhika masam etc.

Ekasloki Raamaayanam

Adau raama thapovanaadhi gamanam

Hathvaa mr(u)gam kaanchanam

Vaidaehee haranam jataayu maranam

Sugreeva sambhaashanam vaalee nigrahanam

Samudratharanam lankaapuri dahanam

Paschaath raavana kumbhakarna nidhanam

Thvaethaddhi raamaayanam

Eka-Sloki Bhagavatham

AdauDevakidevi Garbhajananam Gopigruhe Vardhanam

MaayaputhanaJeevithaapaharanam Govardhanoddhaaranam

KamsachedanaKauravaadihananam KunthiSuthah Paalanam

Etad BhagavathamPuranakaditham Srikrushna Leelaamrutham

While above compilation is not exhaustive readers’ views and suggestions are invited.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

http://www.bhargavasarma.blogspot.in/search/label/Significance%20and%20Symbolism%20of%20Numbers%20%28Hindu%20perspective%29

Sri Hari-Vayu Stuthi (Telugu Script)

2012-02-01T22:41:00.000+05:30

Maagha Maasam - 2012 (Calendar of Key events)

2012-01-20T13:02:00.000+05:30

Lunar Month: Maagha Maasam

Solar Month: Makara-Kumbha Maasam

Ruthu: Sisira

Shannavathi Days (For Pithru tharpana)

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Shannavathi%20Shraaddha

25.01.2012	Vyatheepaatha Yoga
30.01.2012	Manvaadi
04.02.2012	Vaidruthi Yoga
13.02.2012	Kumbha Sankramana, Poorvedyu
14.02.2012	Ashtaka
15.02.2012	Anvashtaka
19.02.2012	Vyatheepaatha Yoga
21.02.2012	Bahula Amaavaasya – Darsha, Yugaadi (Dwapara)

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Symbolism & Significance of Zero (Shuunya)

2012-01-19T13:33:00.000+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

It was India who first gave zero the status of a number and it was Hindu mathematicians who first conceived of zero as a number. Zero signifies something very different from simply nothing. Zero has the power to build any number (eg.10, 100, 1000 etc.) at the same time it has the ability to destroy another number – zero times of anything is zero. Zero stands for vacuum, void, nothing. The discovery of zero and the place value system were inventions unique to the Indian civilization. It was India that gave to the world the value of Zero which was represented by the words like Shoonya in the earliest Sanskrit texts. In mathematical language Shoonya means nothing, its value is nil, however spiritually it symbolizes the ultimate being the Parabrahma. Shuunya is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning zero, nothingness. Shuunya is a symbol that represents absence and it indicates the presence of nothing. Absence lies at the beginning and also at the end of existence.

In Indian classical dance we find a mudra (symbolism) known as Shoonya mudra. It is said that this mudra is ideal for ailments of the ear, nose and throat. In the science of Yoga there is a yogic prakriya known as Soonya meditation which is considered to be one of the important practices for those who want to reach a higher level of meditative state. In Hindu lunar calendar we find a reference to the word Soonya in the context of Soonya masam and Soonya thithi. Shuunyata described as the Buddhist doctrine of emptiness was refuted by Sri Madhvacharya founder of Dvaita philosophy. According to Pythagoras, Zero (Shuunya) is the perfect form which contains all and from which all is created.

Shuunya is a Sanskrit word. Su means blissful, auspicious, delightful, good etc. Universe is called Soonya and is regulated by the all pervading supreme Lord SriManNarayana (Niyamaka). Zero is considered as a revelation of Divinity. It represents the cosmic egg. Lord Vishnu is known as Hiranyagarbhah from whose vitality emerged that famous golden egg which is the one from which creation takes place. He is the cause of the universe, directly responsible for creation of everything in the universe. There cannot be any other cause other than Lord Vishnu for the creation of the universe. He manifests himself first before the creation of the universe.

Shuunya is one of the several thousands of names of Lord Vishnu. In Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram, sloka # 79 we find a reference to the word Soonya (Viirahaa vishhamah suunyo ghritaasiir achalaschalah). One, who is without any attributes, appears as Shuunya (emptiness). He is the One who is a big zero as far as the defects are concerned. He is the only one in the Universe who is totally devoid of any defects of any kind. He is the one who annihilates everything during Maha Pralaya (great deluge). Even during Maha Pralaya when nothing exists still He exists and He is real eternal and primordial.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Significance & Symbolism of Numbers – Hindu perspective

2012-01-10T21:51:00.000+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye!Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Usage of numbers is prevailing in the world since time immemorial and has become an integral and eternal part of the day to day life in the world economy and civilization. Pythagoras the famous mathematician and philosopher believed that all things are numbers and number is within of all things. Numbers rule the universe. Number is the ruler of forms and ideas. In the words of Bertrand Russell, numbers are eternal and not in time. Number is the explanation of the world and understanding of numbers is essential to the knowledge.

Plato called the study of number symbolism "the highest level of knowledge". Pythagoras believed numbers had souls, as well as magical powers. He divided the numbers into two groups odd and even, male and female, light and dark etc. St. Augustine of Hippo wrote that, "Numbers are the universal language offered by the deity to humans as confirmation of the truth." Similar to Pythagoras, he too believed that everything had numerical relationships and it was up to the mind to seek and investigate the secrets of these relationships or have them revealed by divine grace.

Starting from a home-maker right up to head of the nation and starting from a kinder garden learner right up to a research scholar everybody keeps battling with these numbers in day to day life. There is nothing one can do that does not involve application of numbers. Without numbers there is no standardization set in any field. Perhaps there may not be any field which does not use the numbers or any day in human life which passes through without the usage of numbers. Astrology is closely associated with numbers and astrological calculations and predictions are based on numbers. Science of Numerology is exclusively based on the study of numbers and its vibrations. It believes that numbers presage the events to unfold in our lives and they are the framework within which we live.

Hindu perspective

Although the significance of numbers is not recognized or appreciated one cannot deny the great truth behind numbers. Even though lot of research has taken place, the origin and history of numbers is still a mystery. It is strongly believed that India is the cradle of numbers from where it has spread to Arab and Europe. In the words of;

Albert Einstein, "We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made." It was India that gave to the world the value of Zero which was represented by the words like Shoonya in the earliest Sanskrit texts.

Lancelot Hogben, There has been no more revolutionary contribution than the one which the Hindus made when they invented ZERO."

Will Durant, American Historian, "It is true that even across the Himalayan barrier India has sent to the west, such gifts as grammar and logic, philosophy and fables, hypnotism and chess, and above all numerals and the decimal system."

In the words of Pierre Simon Laplace a French mathematician, the ingenious method of expressing every possible number using a set of ten symbols (each symbol having a place value and an absolute value) emerged in India.

The discovery of zero and the place value system were inventions unique to the Indian civilization. Above quotes are some of the testimonials of Indian (Hindu) contribution to the world in terms of significance of numbers.

Though the numbers we use in India are Hindu-Arabic numbers, it is strongly believed that these numbers are in existence since Vedic days and have originated from Brahmi numerals. These Brahmi numerals are said to have come from Indus-Valley civilization. In Hindu philosophy numbers are not mere quantitative indicators, but are of greater value and significance. They are used in the practice of religious ceremonies, to bring in spiritual discipline and are also used as symbols of divinity, their energies and their qualities. In every concept of Sanatana Dharma otherwise known as Hindu dharma we find involvement and usage of numbers. Whether it is Vedas or Upanishads or Puranas or religious rituals and practices, Hindu almanac etc., all are associated with numbers. Even composition of manthras is based on numbers, for example sacred Gayathri manthra comprises of 24 syllables.

In Hindu scriptures (Puranas) we find several numerical descriptions like distances, durations, numbers of universal element, etc. from the perception of Hindu cosmology. They also explain how these numbers were used during ancient times as guiding factors to understand the Hindu cosmology from a numerical perspective. Kaala-Ganana, reckoning of time since creation (Kalpa, Manvanthara and Yuga) is based on numbers only. We also find association of numbers with some of the key concepts of Hinduism. Hindus have always regarded numbers as highly sacred and symbols of certain cosmic powers with latent secrets associated with spirituality.

Each number according to ancient tradition has its own significance. One lifetime may not be adequate to study the significance of entire numbers available in scriptures. Through this post I am only trying to make an attempt to emphasize the significance and symbolism of some of the numbers from the perspective of Hinduism.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

To be continued.........

Uttarayana - 2012 (Makara Sankramana)

2012-01-06T10:44:00.000+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri RaghavendrayaNamaha!

Om!Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe!Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Generally,Makara Sankranthi (Makara Sankramana) occurs on 14^th day of Januaryevery year that also marks the beginning of Uttarayana. Sometimes due to animbalance between lunar and solar calendars it also occurs on 15^thJanuary. Research in Astronomy found that, 1500 years back Makara Sankranthiused to fall on 22^nd December. This is said to be due to a conceptcalled Precession or Ayanachalan that makes the seasons slide backwards withrespect to the stars at the rate of one Indian star in about 950 years. Accordinglyit is said that 14^th January no longer represents the beginning ofUttarayana. In India we find two different dates being followed for the onsetof Uttarayana, one on 22^nd December as per the North Indian calendarand the other on 14^th January as per the South Indian calendar. www.vigyanprasar.gov.in/dream/march2006/English.pdf

Whatis to be done during Uttarayana Parvakala?

Uttarayanais a parvakala highly sacred time that marks the beginning of Sun’s northwardjourney. During any Parvakala sacred bath, prayer, japa, penace, and charityare prescribed. When it is Uttarayana they will be still more significant andmeritorious. Those who are eligible should also give Thila Tharpana to their forefathers. This day one should desist from sensualpleasures, should not apply oil to the body/head, and should take onlyvegetarian food.

ShatThila karma

Onthe day of Uttarayana Parvakala (Makara Sankramana) one should use Thil(Sesame) seeds in six ways viz…Thila Snana, Thila Deepa, Thila Homa, Thilatarpana, Thila Dana and Thila Bhakshana. Worshipping Lord SriManNarayana and SunGod is highly meritorious during this time. Parayana of Vishnu Sahasranamasthothram, Aaditya Hridayam, Purusha Sooktham, Sri Rama Raksha Sthothram andGayathri Japa, are useful prayers suggested at this time.

Asper Masa dharma of Pushya Masam donating clothes (Vasthra Dana) to a Brahmin onthis day is sacred and meritorious. Donating Pumpkin (Kushmanda Dana) on thisday is also meritorious. Performing Sri Sathyanarayana Vratham on anySankramana (Sun transit) day is meritorious and when it is Makara Sankramanaassociated with Uttarayana Parvakala it will be highly meritorious.
http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/12/om-gam-ganapathaye-namaha-om-sri.html

Uttarayana-2012 Schedule

As perthe Almanac followed in South India, Uttarayana Parvakala (Makara Sankramana)transit of Sun into Makara Raasi (Capricorn) is taking place this year on 15^thJanuary 2012 (early hours of Sunday) at 05.53 hrs. Hence, Parva-Punya kala forperforming sacred rites will be from Sunrise up to Sunset on this day 15.01.2012

For moreinformation on

Concept& Significance of Uttarayana Parvakala

MakaraSankranthi (Makara Sankramana) festival – Customs and traditions

You maylike to read from the following link…..

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/MAKARA%20SANKRANTHI

SriKrishnaarpanamasthu

2012 - upcoming celestial key events

2012-01-02T16:11:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye!Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe!Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Ø Lunar year Ugaadi going to beNandana-Naama Samvatsara

Ø Four eclipses occurring during2012

v Two lunar and two solar

· 20.05.2012 – Annular Solar Eclipse

· 04.06.2012 – PartialLunar Eclipse

· 13.11.2012 – Total SolarEclipse

· 28.11.2012 – PartialLunar Eclipse

Ø August month going tohave two full moon days

Ø Lunar month Bhaadrapadamasam going to be intercalary month – Adhika masam

Ø Jupiter (Guru)transit into Vrushabha (Taurus) Raasi during May’2012

Ø Pushkara of NarmadaRiver

Ø Going to be a Leap Year– 29 days in February

Stay tuned for more information on related topics

Blog Year 2011 (a review)

2011-12-31T23:25:00.000+05:30

Duringthe year ended 2011, I could publish only 70 posts taking the total number to217, and the page views has crossed 1.50 lakhs. December month has accounted forhighest number of page views 17000. More than the number of posts, it is topicselection, its usefulness to the viewers and how effectively and timely I amable to communicate, that is more important. Courtesy Baraha, I could add someof the posts in regional languages Telugu & Kannada especially the one on YagnopaveethaDhaarana Vidhi as per Madhva sampradaya and also some of the divine stothras& slokas.

As Imove on to the fourth year of my blogging experience, it is time to have afeedback for a qualitative improvement of the blog in the areas of topicselection, adequacy of information, quality of contents, presentation ofarticles, usefulness of information, layout & display and replies tocomments. I request all viewers, followers and well wishers to give theiresteemed views and suggestions for improvement of the blog.

Itis observed that there are some blogs with similar name that may lead toconfusion to the viewers during search. Not to get mixed up please note that, Iuse all small letters without any space in between, spelled as bhargavasarmaand it is a single word. For ready reference, my

Ø Blog: http://www.bhargavasarma.blogspot.com

Ø Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/bhargavasarma

Ø Album: https://picasaweb.google.com/bhagavanknl

Ø Mail: bhagavanknl@gmail.com

Itake this opportunity to thank all the viewers, followers and well wishers ofmy blog fortheir continued patronage. Finally Iwould like to thank my better-half, but for whose unstinted support this progresswould not have been possible.

Wishing you all

A very happy & prosperous

New Year – 2012

bhargavasarma

Annexure

Link to some of the favorite posts published (for ready reference)

Ø AACHAMANAVIDHI

Ø ADHIKAMAASAM

Ø DHANURMAASAM

Ø DWARAKAKSHETRA

Ø ECLIPSE(Grahana)- a celestial splendour

Ø GANGES- GANGA The River of India

Ø GARUDAPURANA - Glory & Significance

Ø GAYA- THE PITHRU KSHETHRA

Ø HINDULUNAR MONTHS (Significance)

Ø KAASIKSHETHRA (Vaaranaasi)

Ø KALPA- The Hindu Time Element

Ø LORDGANESHA - Obstacles Remover

Ø MADHWASAINTS (Renowned)

Ø MATHRUGAYA KSHETHRA

Ø NAIMISHAARANYA- A rare pilgrimage

Ø NAVABRUNDAVANA - A rare pilgrimage

Ø PITHRUYAGNA

Ø PLANETARYTRANSITS (Concept & Significance)

Ø PRABHASA KSHETHRA - Glory of Somanath

Ø PRAYAAGA(Triveni Sangam)

Ø PUSHKARADARSHINI - Pushkara Vidhi

Ø RAMANAAMA (Glory & Significance)

Ø RARETEMPLES OF LORD HANUMAN

Ø SANKALPAVIDHI

Ø SATURN- THE SHANI MAHATMA

Ø SRIKRISHNA JANMAASHTAMI

Ø SriPadmavathi-Srinivasa Kalyanam

Ø SRI RAGHAVENDRA SWAMY VAIBHAVAM

Ø SRI SATHYANARAYANA VRATHAM

Ø THULASI - THE DIVINE PLANT

Ø TIRUMALA SRIVARI BRAHMOTSAVAM

Ø Yagnopaveetham Paramam Pavithram

Sri Sathyanarayana Vratham (Glory-Significance-Intricacies)

2011-12-20T20:10:00.002+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye!Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe!Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

India the birth place of Hinduism is rich inspirituality, religious cultures, faiths, austerities, customs and traditionsthat we don’t find any where else in the world. In the words of Mark Twain“India is the cradle of human race, the birth place of human speech, the motherof history, the grand mother of legend, and the great grand mother oftradition. Bharatha Khanda (Indian sub-continent) is known as Karma Bhoomiwhich is unique with its significance for Vedic and religious culture andheritage. It is believed and said that one has to take birth in human form inthis sub continent to attain the ultimate salvation through austerities thatpleases the Almighty God.

Hinduismstrongly believes in Puranas and Vedic principles which are the guiding force behindperformance of various austerities and rituals. Vrathas and austerities are aneternal and integral part of Hindu culture and tradition since yore. Vrathameans a niyama or a restriction and they play a significant role in thespiritual development of an individual when they are properly observed. As long as one performs asacred and pious act with full faith and devotion, it would definitely yieldpositive results and would bring pleasing rewards. They generate positiveenergy, help in acquiring control over wandering mind and bring disciplinein life for self uplift. At theend of the day one should try to understand the concept, significance andintricacies of these Vrathas that motivates a person to follow and observethese austerities with full faith and devotion.

One suchVratha which is unique and highly rewarding is Sri Sathyanarayana Vratha whichis widely performed throughout the country and even abroad by Hindus. It is sopopular that we may not find any family or an individual who have not performedor heard of this vratha. This vratha is performed in adoration of LordSathyanarayana. Before we comprehend the niceties of this meritorious vrathalet us try to understand as to who is this Lord Sathyanarayana?

Sathyanarayanais none other than Sri Maha Vishnu the primordial supreme Lord SriManNarayana. Sathya+ Narayana = Sathyanarayana. Sathya is one of the several thousands of namesassociated with Lord Vishnu. We find a reference to the word Sathya more than once in sloka # 12,23,31,56,80 and 93 of Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram. Sathya means truth. Lord SriManNarayana is the truth and is eternal. His concepts and creations are truth. Hisavatharas (incarnations) are truth. He is an embodiment of truth and Sathya is his costume. He is Sathya-dharma-parayana,the custodian of truth, virtue and justice. He always protects his truedevotees. He is a personification of Dharma and his avatharas are always forprotecting Sathya and dharma. He is the ultimate reality for his devotees. Heis also known as Sathyanarayana. Verily He is a true God, not an illusion.

Narayanais a highly popular name by which Lord Sri Maha Vishnu is called. He is the all pervading Supreme Lord. SeveralVedic scripts like Purusha Sooktham, Narayana Upanishad, Narayana Sooktham andseveral puranas eulogize Lord Sri ManNarayana, his qualities, merits,magnificence and his supremacy. Nara + Yana = Narayana. Nara is generally referredto mankind and Yana means the conveyance. Narayana means the conveyance or the sole vehicle for the human beingsto depend upon for their ultimate journey of salvation. Aayana also means the direction and Narayanais the one who shows direction to the mankind towards the ultimate reality. Theword Naara is also associated with another meaning for water. Narayana alsomeans the one whose abode is water.

FamousAshtaakshari (eight lettered) manthra Om! Namo! Naaraayanaaya dedicated to LordSriManNarayana is a Kyvalya (salvation) manthra without reciting of which eventhe Gayathri manthra becomes ineffective which we perform duringSandhyavandana. We find merits of reciting Narayana manthra in SrimadBhagavatham 6^th canto, in the episode of Ajaamilopakhyanam. In SriVishnu Sahasranama Stothram we find reference to the word Narayana in sloka #26 and sloka # 108. Narayana Upanishad describes Him as Eko! Narayana. There is only oneNarayana, the supreme Lord; the Aadipurusha and there is no one superior to himand is second to none. He is unblemished and free from all sins. He isthe Omkara (Pranavam) and is the core element of life. He is Paramaatma. He isLord Sathyanarayana.

Having understood theconcept and significance of Lord Sathyanarayana, let us try to understand theintricacies of Sri Sathyanarayana Vratham and its merits. Sathyanarayanais an extremely benevolent form of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu who is depicted similarto Vishnu. Heis portrayed as chaturbhuja (four arms) holding Conch, Disc, Mace and Lotus infour hands, wearing a garland (Vanamala) with a sparkling appearance.Sathyanarayana is a household name among Hindu families. His worship is in theform of a vratha popularly known as Sathyanarayana Vratham.

Who first initiated forthis Vratha

According to the storybehind, it was Lord SriManNarayana himself in the guise of an old Brahmin whofirst directed a poor Brahmin living in Kaasi Kshethra to perform this sacredVratha. Later through a dialogue between Lord Sri Maha Vishnu and Sage Naradait percolated down and from Pouranic prophet Sage Sootha it got unfolded intothe world.

Uniqueness

Generally any vratha isperformed targeting only the presiding Deity of that particular Vratha. Of courseLord Ganapathi will be worshiped invariably before commencement of any Vrathaor Pooja. But uniqueness of Sathyanarayana Vratham is that, it is the onlyritual where we find the Presiding Deity Lord Sri Sathyanarayana is worshipedalong with Lord Ganesha and also Navagrahas. In some sampradaya we find even AshtaDikkhpaalakas are also worshipped on the same platform. It only shows thesupremacy of Lord Sathyanarayana who is none other than Lord Sri Hari who isworshipped along with protocols. During this vratha Goddess Sri Maha Lakshmi isalso worshipped. Another uniqueness we find in this Vratha is that it is theonly vratha which is performed by one and all irrespective of affiliations andis open for people of all Varnas.

When-Where & Why?

Generally Vrathas areobserved or performed only once in a year on the said day or thithi (Eg.Vinayaka Vratha, Anantha Vratha, Mangala Gouri etc). Whereas, to perform Sri SathyanarayanaVratham there is, no need for looking at the thithi, vaara and nakshathra. It can be performed on any day as per one’ssankalpa. However, preferred days as per the Vratha Katha are Pournami (fullmoon day), Sankramana (Sun’s transit day), Ekaadasi.

Preferred lunar months are Vaisakha masam, Karthikamasam & Maagha masam. Apart from this, we find people generally performSathyanarayana Vratham on specific occasions like marriage, Gruha-pravesam etc.There is no restriction on the number of times that it can be performed. Wefind people performing this Vratha every month and at certain places it is evenperformed every day. It can be performed either in the day or in the evening. Whenit is performed in the evening we find people observes fasting till completionof the Pooja. When it is on Ekaadasi dayit is generally performed in the evening, fasting should be observed and wefind people keep vigil throughout night, break the fast on the next day(Dwaadasi) morning after repeating the pooja.

Sathyanarayana Vrathamcan be performed at home, temples/mutts, offices, shops and establishments. Performingthis vratha on the banks of sacred rivers or pilgrim centers (theerthakshetras) will be highly auspicious and meritorious. Sacred Naimisharanya thecradle of all Pouranic discourses and scripts is the most ideal place among theTheertha Kshetras to perform Sathyanarayana Vratham. It can be performedindividually or collectively.

This meritorious Vrathais performed for various purposes and fulfillment of various desires in mind. Someof the purposes for which this ritual is generally performed are, for begettingprogeny, facing obstacles in life, suffering from grief, ill-health, sufferingfrom poverty, debts, success in ventures, prosperity and abundance in life, onthe occasion of marriage, Gruha pravesam etc. However, it should not be performedduring the period of Asoucha, on the day of Pithru/Mathru thithi, on theeclipse days.

Significance of Vratha Katha

Any vratha or ritualwould be incomplete without reading its legend behind (Vratha-Katha) especiallythe one like Sri Sathyanarayana Vratham which should not be missed out. The story of Sri Sathyanarayana Vratham is originatedfrom the Reva-Khanda of Skandha Purana, one of the Ashtadasa Maha-Puranascomposed by Sage Sri Veda Vyasa. It was first narrated by Sage Sootha at thesacred Naimisharanya on the backdrop of Sage Narada getting a direction fromLord Sri ManNarayana for his (Narada’s) query on the suffering of humanity. Sri Sathyanarayana Vratha katha forms an integral part of this sacred vratham. Great popularity behind this Vratham springs from the stories and legends behind and also from the experiences of devotees who performed it that stands as a testimony to the glory and significance of this sacred vratham.

The story consists offive chapters. First chapter is almostlike a dialogue between Sage Narada and Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. It narrates aboutwhen, where and why to perform this ritual, its merits and significance. Secondchapter narrates about who fist performed viz. a poor Brahmin and a poorwood-cutter and their experiences. Third and fourth chapters narrate about the Mahatmyaof Lord Sathyanarayana, glory of His worship, implications of ignoring him and alsohis benevolence. Fifth chapter indicates significance of Prasada (offering tothe Lord) and implications of ignoring it.

Merits of the Vratham

Sri SathyanarayanaVratham is considered as highly meritorious and result oriented especially inKaliyuga that acts as remedy for various natal as well as mundane sufferings. Evenwitnessing the vratha, listening to the sacred story, taking Prasada (offeringto God) is as meritorious as performing the Vratham itself. It is a Kaamyaka Vratha the one that bestowsand fulfills the desires of devotees be it materialistic or spiritual (Gnana,Bhakti & Vyragya)

Significance ofPrasadam

A special mention hasto be made about Sathyanarayana Swamy Prasadam. Another significance of thisVratha is its Prasada (offering to God) which is known as Saphaala Bhaksha. Saphaalameans equal parts and Bhaksha means the eatable. Saphaala Bhaksha means Naivedya(offering to God) prepared with ingredients mixed in equal proportions. Theingredients for the preparation of Prasada are Wheat Soji, Bananas, Cow Milk,Sugar (jaggery) and Cow Ghee. Merits of Sri Sathyanarayana Swamy prasadam issuch that it should be taken by one and all irrespective of affiliations.

Temples of LordSathyanarayana

We find temples of LordSathyanarayana across the country. Prominent among them is the one at Annavaramin East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh about 45 km from Kakinada. Annavaram Lord Sri Sathyanarayana Swamy isbelieved to have manifested on the top of Rathnagiri hills on the banks ofPampa River. Rarity of this temple is the Presiding Deity, Lord Sri SathyanarayanaSwamy appears with moustaches holding Dhanur-Baana (bow and arrows) in astanding posture along with Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva on a commonplatform. Here the Lord is known by the name Veera Venkata SathyanarayanaSwamy. Annavaram is believed to be the place that grants its devotees theirdesired boons. Annavaram is well connected by Rail located on the Vijayawada –Vizag line of Southern Railway and by road on the Chennai-Calcutta nationalhighway. Nearest airport is Vizag about 3 hours distance from Annavaram. Thetemple is situated at a distance of 3 km from Annavaram Railway Station. Alltrains and buses passing this route stop at Annavaram.

Annexure

Pooja items required

Turmeric powder(Haldi)

Kunkuma powder

Sandalwood powder

Areca-nuts(supari)

Akshata (rice grains mixed with Kunkuma)

Coconuts

Wooden platform (preferably square)

Mango leaves

Two new cloth pieces

Kalasha pot (silver/copper/brass)

Photo & small idol (pratima) of Sri Sathyanarayana Swamy

Ingredients for Panchamrutha

Ingredients for Prasadam

Dry fruits

Flowers

Betel leaves

Thulasi

Fruits,

Yagnopaveetham(janeu)

Water

Oil/ghee lamps

Cotton wicks

Akhanda Deepa

Camphor

Incense sticks

Aarati plate

Ghanta(bell)

Nava Dhaanya (for Navagrahas)

Ingredients for Panchamrutha	Cow milk, curd, honey, sugar & ghee
Ingredients for Prasadam	Wheat Soji, sugar/jaggery, bananas, cow milk and cow ghee

Sri Sathyanarayana Pooja - Checklist

While performing Sri SathyanarayanaSwamy vratham following sequence is generally followed. It may vary as perone’s sampradaya and changes may be made in sequence, addition or deletionwherever applicable. Details of this schedule are nowadays available from themarket in the form of books or CD/Cassettes. Just for ready reference theprocess flow is being provided in the form of a checklist.

Guru Vandana

Vigneshwara Prarthana

Aachamanam

Praanayaamam

Sankalpam

Kalasha Pooja

Ganapathi Pooja

Navagraha Pooja

Ashta Dikkhpaalaka Pooja (as per sampradaya)

Sathyanarayana Pooja

Prana Prathishta

Dhyanam (Prayer)

Aavaahanam

Aasanam

Arghyam

Paadhyam

Aachamanam

Madhuparkam

Snanam (Panchamrutha)

Suddhodaka Snanam

Vasthram

Yagnopaveetham

Chandana

Akshatha Samarpana

Pushpa Pooja (with

flowers)

Athah-Anga Pooja

Ashtottara Satha Nama Pooja

Dhoopam

Deepam

Naivedyam

Thamboolam

Mangala Neerajanam

Manthra Pushpam

Pradakshina – Namaskara

Arghyam

Vaayana Daanam

Prayer

Sathyanarayana Vratha Katha

Conclusion (Samarpana)

Uttara (Punah) Pooja

Udhwaasanam

AshtaDighpalakas

East	Poorva	Indra
South-East	Aagneya	Agni
South	Dakshina	Yama
South-West	Nyruthi	Nirruthi
West	Paschima	Varuna
North-West	Vaayuvya	Vayu
North	Uttara	Kubera
North-East	Eesaanya	Eesaana

Navagrahas

Surya	Sukra
Chandra	Shani
Kuja	Rahu
Budha	Kethu
Guru

Vanamaali gadee shaarngii shankhii chakriicha nandakii

SrimanNaaraayano vishnur-vaasudevo-abhirakshathu

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Total Lunar Eclipse (10.12.2011) - ಸಂಪೂರ್ಣ ಚಂದ್ರಗ್ರಹಣ/సంపూర్ణ చంద్రగ్రహಣ೦

2011-12-02T20:10:00.001+05:30

Om!Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo!Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om!Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha

Sparsha Madhya Moksha

(18.16hrs) (20.02hrs) (21.48hrs)

Lasteclipse of the year 2011 is going to be witnessed on 10^th December2011, the full moon day, Pournimaasya. Itis going to be a total Lunar eclipse (Sampoorna Chandra Grahana) occurring atthe Moon’s descending node, Kethugrastha Chandra Grahana. This eclipse will be visible all over Asia,Australia, New-Zealand, Europe, North America, Canada and Middle East. In India it will be visible throughout thecountry. It is going to be again a longeclipse stretching for more than three hours with its totality lasting for 51minutes. We had recently witnessed asimilar type but still longer lunar eclipse in the month of June’2011. Astrologically,this Eclipse is occurring in the constellation of Rohini extending to Mrigasirastar in Vrushabha Raasi (Taurus).

Schedule of current Lunar Eclipse asper IST

Date of Eclipse	10^th December, 2011 (Saturday)
Lunar Day	Margasira Sukla Pournami
Type of Eclipse	Total Lunar Eclipse Sampoorna Chandra Grahana Kethu Grastha – Khagraasa
Visibility	Across the country
Eclipse Time	18.16 hrs (IST) to 21.48 hrs (IST)
Total duration of Eclipse	3 hours and 32 minutes
Eclipse Phases: Sparsha (Beginning) Madhya (Mid time) Moksha (Ending time)	18.16 hrs 20.02 hrs 21.48 hrs
Vedha starts from	09.16 hrs
Parva Kala	3 hours and 32 minutes

As per NASA the timing is going to besame through out the country. Food restriction for those who can afford startsfrom Sunrise on 10.12.2011. Pregnant women, children, old aged and ailing have relaxationsin food timings but well before the eclipse time. As far as possible avoid taking food duringeclipse.

Astrological details of the Eclipse

Eclipse Sign	Vrushabha Raasi (Taurus)
Eclipse constellation	Rohini and Mrigasira (1 & 2)
Planets in Eclipse sign	Kethu and Moon
Effect on zodiac signs · Negative results · Mixed results · Auspicious results	Vrushabha (Taurus), Thula (Libra) Mithuna (Gemini), Kumbha (Aquarius) Mesha (Aries), Kanya (Virgo) Vrischika (Scorpio), Makara (Capricorn) Karkataka (Cancer), Simha (Leo) Dhanus (Sagittarius), Meena (Pisces)

SuggestedRemedies

Sincethe eclipse is occurring in the constellation of Rohini and Mrigasira, thosebelonging to these two birth stars may have to perform Grahana Shanti. Those born in the Moon sign of Taurus (Vrushabha)and in the constellation of Rohini & Mrigasira in particular should donatethe following to a Brahmin on the next day morning after taking bath.

OneBronze/Copper plate (filled with ghee) +

ChandraBimba & Naga Bimba (silver) +

Vasthra(Clothes) + Dakshina along with

Rice,Horse Gram and Toor Dal

DonatingBlack Thil seeds during Parvakala like Eclipse is always recommended which isconsidered as highly meritorious.

While giving charity (Bimba Daana) following sloka to be recited..
chandraantaryaami sri lakshminaarasimha preranaaya

sri lakshminaarasimha preetyartham

chandroparaagapeedaparihaaraartham

sanaaga chandrabimbadaanamaham karishye

ಚಂದ್ರಾಂತರ್ಯಾಮಿ ಶ್ರೀ ಲಕ್ಷ್ಮೀನಾರಸಿಂಹಪ್ರೆರಣಾಯ
ಶ್ರೀ ಲಕ್ಷ್ಮೀನಾರಸಿಂಹಪ್ರೀತ್ಯರ್ಥಮ್

ಚಂದ್ರೋಪರಾಗಪೀಡಾಪರಿಹಾರಾರ್ಥಮ್
ಸನಾಗ ಚಂದ್ರಬಿಂಬದಾನಮಹಮ್ ಕರಿಷ್ಯೇ

చంద్రాంతర్యామి శ్రీ లక్ష్మీనారసింహప్రేరణాయ
శ్రీ లక్ష్మీనారసింహప్రీత్యర్థమ్

చంద్రోపరాగపీడాపరిహారార్థమ్
సనాగ చంద్రబింబదానమహమ్ కరిష్యే

PerformingRudrabhishekam to Lord Shiva before and after the Eclipse will bebeneficial. Those belonging to Rohiniand Mrigasira stars should avoid looking/getting exposed to the Eclipse.

Suggested prayers

Specificprayers to Lord Maha Ganapathi (for Kethu), Lord Sri Krishna and Lord Shiva(For Moon), Lord Hanuman, Moon God are required to be made during eclipse. Someof the useful prayers suggested for recitation during eclipse time are…

SriVishnu Sahasra Nama Stothram

SriNrusimha Kavacham

Runa Vimochana Sri Nrusimha Stothram

Sankata Nashana Ganesha Stothram

SriKrishnaastakam, Sri Damodara Stothram

SriVenkateswara Vajra Kavacha Stothram

DurgaKavacham or Durga Stuthi

SriHari-Vayu Stuthi, Yanthroddharaka Hanumad Stothram

KhilaVayu Stuthi, Hanuman Chaleesa

SriRaghavendra Sthothram/ Kavacham

Onecan choose any one of the above or any other useful Divine prayer based ontheir individual faith and belief while the above list is only indicative butnot exhaustive. Those who cannot recitethem can at least resort to chanting of Narayana Astakshari or Shiva Panchaksharior Sri Rama Nama or Sri Raghavendra Astakshari during Eclipse.

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/DIVINE%20STOTRAS%20AND%20SLOKAS

What is to be done during Eclipse time?

AnyEclipse time is said to be very sacred and celestial and entire period ofEclipse is known as Parva Kala (most sacred time). Any sacred rituals or rites performed duringa parva kala will derive more merits than those performed during ordinarytimes. Hence, please don’t waste the Eclipse time with materialistic pursuitsand activities. Eclipse is the most opportune time to perform Snana {(sacredbath) before and after the Eclipse}, Prayer, Punascharana of Upadesa Manthra like Gayathri manthra, Pithru Tharpana, and Charity. Chanting of Vedic manthras/sacred Sthothraswill ward off the negative energy that gets activated during eclipse andprotects from all negativity.

Thosewho are eligible (Tharpanaadhikari) should give Sarva Pithru Tarpana tofore-fathers with black Thil (Sesame) seeds with proper sankalpa during eclipsetime. In case eclipse day is coincidingwith Pithru/Mathru thithi (Pournami) it should be performed after the eclipse. DuringVedha period nithya karma like Snana, Sandhyavandana can be performed. Snana (takingbath) after the Eclipse is a must and thereafter food can be taken afteroffering prayer.

Annexure

Pithru Tharpana - Sankalpa Sloka

(For the current Lunar Eclipse)

Sri Govinda - Govinda! Sri MahaVishnorAagnaaya,
Pravarthamanasya, Aadya Bramhane, Dwiteeya Parardhe,
Sri Swetha Varaaha Kalpe, Vaivaswatha Manvanthare, Kaliyuge,
Kali Prathama Charane, Bauddhavathare, Salivaahanasakhe,
Jambudweepe, Meror Dakshina bhage, Bhaaratavarshe,
Bharatha Khande, Godavari Dakshina theere…Sannidhau,
Asmin Varthamane, Vyavahaarike, Chaandramanena,
Sri Khara Nama Sanvastare, Dakshinayane, Hemantha Ruthau,
Margasira Maase, Sukla Pakshe, Pournami Thithau…
Mandha Vaasare, Vishnu Nakshatre, Vishnu Yoge,
Vishnu Karane, evam guna visheshana visistaayaam,
Punya thithau
Praacheenavithi (Yagnopaveetham in apasavya position)
Asmath Samastha Pithrunaam
Akshaya Punya Lokaavaapthyartham
Chandroparaaga Punyakaaley Sraaddhanga
Saddhyah Thila Tharpanam Karishye

Samarpana sloka
Anena Mayaa - Chandroparaaga Kruthena
Samastha Pithru Thila Tharpanena
SriMadhJanardhana Vaasudevah
Priyathaam Preetho Varado Bhavathu
Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu
Kaayena vaacha manasendri yairvaa
Buddhyaatmanaa vaa prakrite swabhavath
Karomi yadyat sakalam parasmai
Naarayanayethi samarpayaami

For more information on Thila tharpana vidhi, list of Sarva Pithru etc… you may like to refer to the following post…..

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/AMAVASYA%20THARPANA%20VIDHI

For more details on Eclipse terminology, dos & don’ts, usage of Dharbha (Kusa grass) during Eclipse etc… you may like to refer to the related posts from the following link…

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Eclipse

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Eclipse (A to Z) - Grahana Vichara (FAQ)

2011-11-29T13:46:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! SriRaghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama DoothayaNamaha!

Eclipseis a natural phenomenon that we come across regularly at least twice in a year.Occurrence of eclipse is always fascinating and the spectacular event leads to neverending thirst for scientific, spiritual, astrological and sociologicalresearch. Whenever there is an eclipse generally we come across certainterminology being used and one will always get perplexed with these jargons. Toalleviate confusion an attempt is made through this post bringing togethercommonly used eclipse related terms and their meaning in a codified manner.

Eclipse

Eclipses are caused by the powerful alignmentof Sun, the Moon and Earth. Best known are the Lunar Eclipse when the Earthblocks the Sun’s light from the Moon and Solar Eclipse when the Moon blocks theSun’s light from small portion of the Earth. During a Lunar eclipse Moon enters the shadowof the earth and at Solar eclipse Moon enters the Sun’s disc. Literally speaking Eclipse is a Latin/Greek word; Eclipsis-Ekleipsis-Ekleipein meaning abandonment, fail to appear, obscuring (covering) of one celestial body (star) by another, a temporary or permanent dimming or cutting off of light, a disgraceful or humiliating end or downfall, to overshadow or surpass, to hide from view, to block passage of all or a part of one celestial body into the shadow of another. Scientifically, it is the disappearance of the whole or a part of the Sun when the Moon comes between it and the Earth or disappearance of the Moon when the Earth’s shadow falls across it.

Grahana

InSanskrit Eclipse is known as Grahana meaning, held forcibly or to seize orafflicted because of being captured. It also means to absorb or swallow. Ingeneral grahana means acceptance. Aneclipse is also known as Uparaaga in Sanskrit. If it is solar eclipse it is known as Suryoparaaga and if it is lunar eclipseit is known as Chandroparaaga.

SolarEclipse (Surya Grahana)

ASolar Eclipse or Surya Grahana can occur only on the day of Amaavaasya (on a new Moon day),when the Moon is in its new phase, when the Sun and Moon are in conjunction as seen from theEarth. In a solar eclipse Moon is the eclipsing body, passing between Earth andSun while casting a travelling shadow across Earth’s lighted surface so thatthe Sun is wholly or partially obscured (covered).

LunarEclipse (Chandra Grahana)

Lunar eclipse is caused by the entering ofthe Moon into the earth-shadow. When the Earth moves between the Sun and theMoon, the shadow of the Earth covers the Moon producing a Lunar Eclipse. The light of the Moon is darkenedtemporarily. Chandra Grahana or a Lunar eclipse can occur only on a full moon day (Pournami) when theMoon is directly opposite to the Sun.

Typesof Eclipses

Thereare four types of eclipses, total, annular, hybrid and partial. A total eclipsewhen Sun/Moon is completely obscured. Total eclipse (Sampoorna Grahana) is arare event though it occurs. An Annular Eclipse when the Sun and Moon areexactly in line, but size of the Moon is apparently smaller than that of theSun. A Hybrid eclipse that is intermediate between total and annular eclipse. Apartial eclipse, when the Sun and Moon are not exactly in line and thecelestial body is only partially obscured.

Grasthodaya

Grastha means possessed, seized, captured, or swallowed andUdaya means rising time. Grasthodaya means, rising of Sun (sunrise) or Moon(Moonrise) when the eclipse is in progress (solar/lunar) as the case may be. Precisely Grahana (eclipse) would have started already before Sunrise/Moonrise and Sparsha is not visible while Moksha alone is visible.

Grasthaastha

Astha means disappear, setting time, vanished. Grasthaasthameans an eclipse (solar/lunar) which is in progress at the time of Sunset orMoonset as the case may be. Precisely Grahana (eclipse) would not have ended before Sunset or Moonset. In this case Sparsha is visible while the Moksha is not visible.

Khagraasa means total eclipse (solar/lunar)

Khandagraasa means partial eclipse (solar/lunar)

Eclipse Phases

Thereare three phases during an eclipse. They are Sparsha, Madhya and Moksha.Sparsha means to touch. It is the phasewhen the eclipse begins and obscuring of one celestial body over the other becomesvisible. Madhya is the phase when the eclipse is at its peak when the disk iscompletely covered depending on the totality of the eclipse. Moksha is the phase when the eclipse startsreceding and the shadow moves away from the celestial body that marks the endof the eclipse. Visibility of all the three phases generally depends onclimatic conditions at the time of eclipse. In case of total eclipse (sampoorna grahana) both Sparsha and Moksha are visible.

Parvakala

Entireperiod of eclipse is said to be a parvakala. Hence during this period offeringprayer, punascharana of upadesa mantra, Pithru tarpana (thila) and dana(charity) are prescribed and considered to be highly sacred and celestial. It is said that bath at the beginningof eclipse, prayer, punascharana of upadesa mantra, tarpana during the midtime, charity (dana) during the closing time and bath again after the eclipseare very sacred and celestial and will have multiple effect. Chanting of Vedicmanthras/sacred Sthothram will ward off the negative energy that gets activatedduring eclipse and protects from all negativity.

Vedha Vichaara

Eclipse is not an auspicious moment. Vedha means an affliction(pain or grief) to the celestial body Sun/Moon as the case may be. This periodof pain or grief to the celestial body is spiritually known as Vedha which isnot an auspicious period. It is considered as a mourning period. Just like onecannot or does not feel like eating or drinking in the event of a calamity ormishappening at home, similarly it is prescribed to abstain from eating ordrinking during the hour of grief (Vedha) to the celestial body while theuniversal repositioning is taking place.

According to the sacred texts like Dharma Shastras, duration ofVedha during Eclipse is based on the concept of Prahara or Yaama which indicates the timeelement. A Prahara is a unit of time equivalent to 1/8^th of a dayand similarly a Yaama is also a unit of time which is equivalent to threehours.

Inauspicious period otherwise knownas Vedha begins about four Praharas/Yaamaas before solar eclipse and three praharas/Yaamaasbefore lunar eclipse. That means Vedha begins 12 hours (30 ghatis) before the commencementof a solar eclipse and 9 hours (22½ ghatis) before a lunar eclipse begins in general.

In case it is Lunar eclipse and Grasthodaya(eclipse already in progress at the time of Moonrise) Vedha will be for fourPraharaas/Yaamaas. That means it begins12 hours before the commencement of lunar eclipse.

Dharbha (KusaGrass)

We find in Hindu philosophy people use Dharbha(Kusa Grass) during eclipse time for protection of water and food items fromgetting contaminated. Dharbha Grass isidentified with Lord Vishnu and is believed to possess the power to purify anything. It is an age old tradition in Hindufamilies to cover the food items with Dharbha during eclipse to protect themfrom harmful ultra violet radiation.

Significanceof Rahu/Kethu during Eclipse

Pouranicreference to eclipse is found in Srimad Bhagavatha, Mahabharatha, and otherVishnu related puranas. According to Hindu philosophy it is believed thateclipses are caused by Rahu and Kethu. In Bhagavatha purana a sizeablereference as to why Rahu and Kethu are responsible for solar and lunar eclipsesis made in the context of churning of the sea, origin of the pot of Amritam,and Lord Maha Vishnu taking the form of a Mohini (Mohini Avathara) to help thedevathas. In Navagraha Sthothram composed by sage Sri Vedavyasa description ofRahu is well suited to the reference of an eclipse.

AstronomicallyRahu and Kethu denote two points of intersection of the paths of the Sun andMoon as they move on the celestial sphere. They are called north and south lunar nodes (ascending and descendingnodes). The fact that eclipses occurwhen Sun and Moon are at one of these points gives rise to an impression of theswallowing of the Sun/Moon. An eclipse (solar/lunar) could be Rahugrastha whereascending node Rahu is involved or could be Kethugrastha where the descendingnode Kethu is involved.

For more information on Eclipse, dos& don’ts etc… you may like to refer to the related posts from the followinglink…

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Eclipse

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Margasira (Dhanur Masam) - Pushya Masam - Upcoming Events

2011-11-22T12:34:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om!Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama Doothaya Namaha!

Margasira

(Dhanurmasam)

Pushya masam

(2011-12) - Hemantha Ruthu

Upcoming events

Margasira Masam (26.11.2011 to 24.12.2011)

29.11.2011 NagaPanchami

30.11.2011 Subramanya Shashti (Skhanda Shashti)

06.12.2011 Sarveshaam Ekaadasi (Sukla) – GeethaJayanthi

08.12.2011 Hanumad Vratha

10.12.2011 - Total Lunar Eclipse (Sampoorna Chandra Grahana)

Sparsha (18.16hrs) Madhya (20.02hrs) Moksha (21.48hrs)

10.12.2011 Margasira Sukla Pournami

Sri DattatreyaJayanthi (Datta Jayanthi)

13.12.2011 Sankasta Chaturthi

21.12.2011 Sarveshaam Ekaadasi (Bahula)

ShannavathiDates (Margasira masam)

05.12.2011 Vyatheepaatha Yoga

15.12.2011 Vaidruthi Yoga

16.12.2011 Dhanus Sankramana (Parvakala from15.50hrs till Sunset)

17.12.2011 Poorvedyu Sraaddha

18.12.2011 Ashtaka Sraaddha

19.12.2011 Anvashtaka Sraaddha

24.12.2011 Margasira Bahula Amaavaasya – Darsha

Dhanurmasam (17.12.2011 to 14.01.2012)

17.12.2011 Dhanurmasam begins

05.01.2012 Vaikunta Ekaadasi – Sri RaghottamaTheerthara Punya Thithi (Tirukoilur) - Manvaadi

06.01.2012 Mukkoti Dwaadasi – Sri Swami PushkariniTheertha Mukkoti (Tirumala Kshethra)

14.01.2012 Bhogi festival – End of Dhanurmasam

ShannavathiDates (Dhanurmasam)

30.12.2011 Dhanur-Vyatheepaatha Yoga

10.01.2012 Vaidruthi Yoga

PushyaMasam (25.12.2011 to 23.01.2012)

12.01.2012 Sankasta Chaturthi

15.01.2012 Uttarayana Parva Punyakala – MakaraSankranthi – Makara Sankramana (Parva Punyakala from Sunrise till Sunset) - SriNarahari Theerthara Punya thithi (Hampi)

09.01.2012 Pushya Sukla Pournami – Maagha SnaanaAarambha

19.01.2012 Sarveshaam Ekaadasi (Bahula)

23.01.2012 Sri Purandara Dasara Punya Dina (Hampi)

ShannavathiDates (Pushya masam)

15.01.2012 Poorvedyu Sraaddha/Sankramana

16.01.2012 Ashtaka Sraaddha

17.01.2012 Anvashtaka Sraaddha

22.01.2012 Darsha (Amaavaasya) – Pithru tharpana

Related posts you may like to read & their links…..

Maasaanaam Maargaseersho~ham

(Significance of Margasira Masam)

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2010/11/maasaanaam-maargaseershoham.html

VaikuntaEkadasi-Mukkoti Ekadasi

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Vaikunta%20Ekadasi

BhagawadgeetaSaar (Essence of Life)

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Geeta%20Saar%20%28Essence%20of%20Life%29

Concept& Significance of Dhanurmasam

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Concept%20and%20Significance%20of%20Dhanurmasam

Pushya Masam - Significance

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/01/pushya-masam-significance.html

Uttarayana Parvakala – Concept &Significance

Makara Sankramana (Makara Sankranthi)

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/MAKARA%20SANKRANTHI

Sri Narahari Theertharu – A royalpontiff

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Sri%20Narahari%20Theertharu

PithruYagna – Shannavathi Shraaddha

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/search/label/Shannavathi%20Shraaddha

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

How to tackle Sade-Sathi? - Remedies for Shani (Saturn's) unfavourable gochaara

2011-11-20T20:02:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama DoothayaNamaha!

DivineRemedies

Generallyduring Saturn’s Gochaara it is said that Adridha Karma phalas of the nativewill be experienced which can be corrected or diluted by resorting to Divineremedies which are classified into prayers, charity and austerities.

Prayers

WorshipingLord Vishnu (Venkateshwara, Naarasimha), Lord Hanuman and Lord Shiva are highlybeneficial during the unfavorable Gochaara of Saturn. Lord Hanuman is said to be a very strong andeffective remedy for Saturn. Apart from this Saturn he himself is a good remedywho is known as stothra Priya. Recharge yourself with Divine prayers when youare down with misery.

Suggestedprayers are

Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stothram
Runa Vimochana Sri Nrusimha Stothram
Sanaischara Krutha Sri Nrusimha Stuthi
Sri Venkatesha Stothra (BrahmandaPurana)
Sri Venkatesha Vajra Kavacha Stothram(Markandeya proktha)
Sri Hari-Vayu Stuthi
Khila-Vayu Stuthi
Yanthroddharaka Hanumad Stothram
Hanuman Chaleesa
Writing of Sri Rama Nama (Rama-Koti)with silent recitation
Sundarakanda Parayanam
Mruthyunjaya Manthra/ShivaPanchakshari
Dasaratha Krutha Shani Stothram (PadmaPurana)
Pippalada Proktha Shani Stothram &Shani Ashtottaram
Sri Vedavyasa Krutha Shani sloka (daily19 times)
Reading the story of Nala-Damayanthi andShani Mahatmya

Above list is only indicative and onemay chose a relevant prayer according one’s sampradaya.

Charity

Donateevery Saturday ½ lit of Gingili (Thil) oil to a Hanuman temple after Sunset.

Donateto a Brahmin 1¼ kg Black Thil seeds (Sesame) during Parvakala like Eclipse,Uttarayana, Dakshinayana, during the days of Shani Trayodasi or ShaniAmaavaasya.

Donatefood, medicines, blankets, clothes, leather chappals, umbrella, walker etc. to old,poor and physically handicapped and give charity/donations to old age homes or organizations for physically handicapped.

Austerities

PerformThila Thailabhishekam to Lord Saturn during the days of Shani Trayodasi and ShaniAmaavaasya or at-least once in three months.

PerformRudrabhishekam to Lord Shiva on any Saturday or during Shani Pradosha or on aSaturday coinciding with Ashtami thithi or during Masa-Shivarathri. To be repeated at-least once in three months.

VisitLord Venkateswara temple every Saturday and perform archana. Keep reciting Sri Venkatesha Ashtakshari (Om! Namo! Venkatesaaya!) as much as possible. Lord Venkateswara is the presiding Deity of Kaliyuga (Kalau Venkata Naayaka) and the best remedy to ward off the malevolence of Shani.

WorshipLord Hanuman and perform Archana on Saturdays. Keep visiting Lord Hanuman temples as frequently as possible especially on Saturdays.

Keep reciting Rama-Nama as much as possible. Wherever Sri Rama is recited, by default Lord Hanuman comes into picture, and wherever Hanuman is present Shani will be at a distance.

Dependingon the natal position of Saturn, complete Shani Shanti (Japa + Homa + tharpana+ charity) may be required.

Perform19 rounds of Pradakshina Namaskara to Lord Saturn reciting Shani sloka, and 11rounds of Pradakshina namaskara to Lord Hanuman reciting Sri Rama Nama on everySaturday. Performing of circumambulations around Aswattha (Peepal) tree andShami Tree is also recommended during Shani Gochaara.

Visitto famous Shani Kshethras like Thirunallar (Tamilnadu), Mandapalli (AndhraPradesh) and Shani Shingnapur (Maharashtra). Keep praying Lord Shani regularly everyday especially in the evening after Sunset.

Above remedies are useful during Saturn's Gochaara like Sade-Sathi, Ashtama Shani, Kantaka Shani or when the native is passing through the major dasa or sub period of Saturn as per the natal chart. Pleasenote that any divine remedies will be effective only when they are performedwith all sincerity, faith and devotion. Miracles won’t happen overnight and remedies should be pursued.

One should realize the concept, significance andimpact of Karma (Sanchita, Praarabdha, Kriyaamaana and Aagaami) in the life ofan individual for a better understanding of Saturn's gochaara. Saturnis a Karmakaraka, an agent of Karma and an administrator of Karmic Law. He isthe dispenser of justice and Dandanaadhikari, the one who punishes the evildoers according to one’s Karma phala. In the universal Karmic law every one hasto pay for their misdeeds and there is no exception. Past karmic sins raise their head during unfavorableperiods of Saturn, and Saturn is the best driving force who helps us to getreleased from Karma permanently.

Thereis a wrong notion that Saturn or for that matter planetary positioning in thenatal chart is the cause of our sorrow and suffering. In fact the stars and planets are merelypointers and they themselves are not the causes of our agony. A natal or abirth chart is an atlas of our previous sins and merits reflected throughpositioning of the planets. It is one’sown thoughts and actions that affect the fortunes of one’s soul and a portionof the cumulative effect of our previous karma (Sanchita) is our present birthPrarabdha. An individual carries the shadow of his own past for which hehimself to be blamed and none else. Sinsof the past are the causes for the present pains and present sins would becauses for future sorrows. Future is always carved out in the present. Ourexperience on earth is predestined by virtue of our own past behaviors andSaturn is only an executor of fate.

Saturnrepresents the heaviest karmic burden an individual brings into this existenceand in the celestial setting he is the judge of human action. Living beings take birth and die according totheir actions (Karma). Happiness, and griefare the results of Karma and all beings born in this world perform actions andreap the fruits accordingly. Everyonegets what he deserves and everyone has to face the outcome of good as well as evilcaused by his own actions that get exhausted only by living them out.

Allour sufferings in the world are caused by our own ego centric misconception andconsequent arrogance characterized by our ever multiplying demand for wealthand desires. For rise and fall of an individual his own deeds are the cause.Ego is the greatest enemy of human beings and it is said that one mayunderstand the cosmos but never the ego. Greatest intoxication is that of theego and worst madness is that of anger. Man alone is given the freedom to actas he likes (free will), and to the extent he disobeys the universal law ofsacrifice to that extent he comes to suffer. He brings discard in the harmony of the existence around him with hisarrogant and egoistic actions.

Saturnis a great ego buster who sanitizes the mind, destroying pride of anindividual. He is a great teacher, friend and philosopher who refines thebehavior of an individual and is made to realise the realities of life andworthiness of human birth by throwing challenges in our paths. Saturn’sGochaara periods especially Sade-Sathi is an opportunity for an individual toreposition himself in the life. Law ofKarma is equal for one and all; there can’t be any bias and Saturn has nofavorites. He is a foe to the evil doersand the best friend for one who learns through self discipline, change ofattitude and commitment in life.

Hehelps the one who approaches him with all sincerity and modesty. He mightappear to be causing misery but inherently is uplifting the self-esteem of anindividual, drive him towards wisdom, liberate him from materialistic burdensand transform him to become spiritual and philosophical. To tackle Saturnespecially during his unfavorable Gochaara one should possesses or developqualities of discipline, hard work, diligence, patience, steadfastness, perseverance,honesty, judgment, compassion, charitable nature, service oriented and finally selflesssacrifice. In fact these are all the traits that everyone should try to developto embark upon the odd challenges that come in the way of our life path. If not learnt earlier, Saturn gives anopportunity during his transit periods like Sade-Sathi. Saturn has a unique and decisive role inhuman life.

Saturnis known as Sanaischara the one who moves very slowly and befitting to hisnature, if one wants success with Saturn one should have patience and avoid tryingto rush the things, wait until the time is right and it is his turn. Saturnalways favors the one who is leading an honest and chaste life. All said and done, the best possible way to tackle theunfavorable Gochaara of Saturn is to understand his celestial role, hisphilosophy and try to catch the messages he conveys during his transits.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Related topics you may like to read!

Transit Saturn in Libra – An outlook

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/transit-of-saturn-shani-into-libra.html

Shani Gochaara (Transit of Saturn) – All youwanted to know about Sade-Sathi

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/shani-gochaara-transit-of-saturn-all.html

Planetary Transits - PredictiveTechniques – Impact on individuals

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/planetary-transit-results-techniques.html

Planetary Transits (Gochaara) –Concept & Significance

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/panetary-transits-gochaara-concept.html

Saturn – The Shani Mahatma (a friend or a foe)

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/05/saturn-shani-mahatma-friend-or-foe.html

Lord Shani (Saturn) – a brief sketch

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/06/lord-shani-saturn-brief-sketch.html

Transit Saturn (Shani) in Libra - an outlook

2011-11-13T15:10:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama DoothayaNamaha!

Saturn’stransit schedule in Libra

Entryon 15.11.2011- Constellation-Chitta-3 (Libra)

Exiton 02.11.2014: Constellation-Visaka-4 (Scorpio)

Inbetween Saturn will turn retrograde and becomes direct. There could be a slightvariation in dates due to different almanacs being followed.

Gochaaraimplications of Saturn’s transit into Libra

Duringhis sojourn in Libra sign, Saturn will be transiting across the constellationsof Chitta (2 & 3), Swathi, and Visakha (1, 2, & 3). With the entry ofSaturn into Libra it will be the beginning of Sade-Sathi for those born inScorpio sign (Vrischika raasi) and end of Sade-Sathi for those born under Leosign (Simha Raasi). For Kanya (Virgo)raasi it will be the last leg of Sade-Sathi while for Thula (Libra) it will beJanma Shani or 2^nd leg of Sade-Sathi. Those born under the Moon signof Meena (Pisces) raasi will experience the effect of Ashtama Shani and forthose born in Cancer (Karkataka), Aries (Mesha) and Capricorn (Makara) it willbe Kantaka Shani. For Cancer sign it is also called as Ardhaashtama Shani.

Zodiac Sign	Shani Gochaara
Virgo	Sade-Sathi (Last leg)
Libra	Sade-Sathi (2^nd leg)
Scorpio	Sade-Sathi (1^st leg)
Pisces	Ashtama Shani
Cancer	Ardhaastama Shani
Aries & Capricorn	Kantaka Shani

MoorthiNirnaya

Gemini, Leo & Capricorn	Swarna Moorthi
Taurus, Libra & Aquarius	Rajatha Moorthi
Aries, Virgo & Sagittarius	Thamra Moorthi
Cancer, Scorpio & Pisces	Loha Moorthi

Ingeneral malefic planets like Saturn produce adverse results as Swarna Moorthiand Loha Moorthi, average to good results as Thamra Moorthi and favourableresults as Rajatha Moorthi.

Birthstar

Saturn’s transiting constellation

Transit Saturn in*

Birth Star (drop down)	Chitta (15.11.2011 to 11.10.2012)	Swathi (11.10.2012 to 04.11.2013)	Visakha (04.11.2013 to 02.11.2014)
Aswini, Makha, Moola	Pratyak	Saadhana	Naidhana
Bharani,PoorvaPhalguni, Poorvaashaada	Kshema	Pratyak	Sadhana
Krittika, UttaraPhalguni, Uttaraashaada	Vipat	Kshema	Pratyak
Rohini, Hasta, Sravana	Sampath	Vipat	Kshema
Mrigasira, Chitta, Dhanishta	Janma	Sampath	Vipat
Ardra, Swathi, Satabhisha	Parama-mithra	Janma	Sampath
Punarvasu, Visakha, Poorvabhadra	Mithra	Parama-mithra	Janma
Pushyami, Anuradha, Uttarabhadra	Naidhana	Mithra	Parama-mithra
Aslesha, Jyesta, Revathi	Saadhana	Naidhana	Mithra

*Inbetween Saturn turns retrograde when the above results gets modified

Asa rule, Naidhana thara and Janma Thara gives very bad results, Pratyak and Vipat thara givesbad results, Sampat thara, Sadhana thara and Mithra thara gives good resultsand Paramamithra thara gives very good results.

Theresults enumerated above should not be applied as it is. They may get modifiedbased on the overall planetary position and strength in the natal chart,placement of Saturn and its position, aspects of benefic planets, runningDasa-Bhukti, and transit of planets like Jupiter, Rahu and Kethu etc.

DuringSaturn’s sojourn in Libra other major astrological transits would be Jupitermoving into Taurus and further into Gemini, Rahu-Kethu moving into Libra &Aries and further into Virgo & Pisces respectively. Saturn’s transit or entry into Libra marksthe beginning of a new phase in Gochaara as his Libran influence will be feltprecisely for a period of more than2½ years. Though technically the transitwill be for 2½ years, effectively it will be for almost three years beforeSaturn finally moves into the next sign. This is due to Saturn assumingretrograde motion in-between.

Librais a sign of exaltation for Saturn and the sign Lord Venus is a natural friendof Saturn and as such Libra is Saturn’s most friendly and comfortable sign. Nexttransit of Saturn into Libra will take place only after 30 years. An airy sign Librais the natural 7^th house in the zodiac. Generally 7^thhouse is known as Kalathra sthana indicating marriage, association/relationswith others. A sign of equilibrium, Libra indicating balance and justice,Saturn the celestial judge in Libra indicates more discipline and commitment inones’ relationships with a balance of mind and righteousness.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu

Relatedposts you may like to read!

PlanetaryTransits (Predictive Techniques) – Impact on individuals

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/planetary-transit-results-techniques.html

PlanetaryTransits (Gochaara) – Concept & Significance

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/panetary-transits-gochaara-concept.html

ShaniGochaara (Transit of Saturn) - All you wanted to know about Sade-Sathi

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/shani-gochaara-transit-of-saturn-all.html

How to tackle Saturn's unfavourable Gochaara....Await for the next post!

Sade-Sathi (Shani Gochaara) - All you wanted to know about Transit of Saturn

2011-11-12T10:23:00.001+05:30

Om! Gam! Ganapathaye! Namaha!

Om! Sri Raghavendraya Namaha!

Om! Namo! Bhagavathe! Vaasudevaya!

Om! Ham! Hanumathe! Sri Rama DoothayaNamaha!

Having understood from the previous posts theconcept, significance, and general predictive technicalities of planetarytransits (Gochaara) now, let us try to know more about the transit of Saturnthe most dreaded and talked about Planet in Astrology. For easy understandingit is presented in the form of a questionnaire.

Whatis the uniqueness of Shani Gochaara?

Saturnpopularly referred to in Hindu astrology as Shani Mahatma is the slowest movingplanet among the Nava-Grahas. He isknown as Mandha Graha (Sanaischara), the one who moves slowly. It takes almost 2 ½ years for Saturn to movefrom one sign to the other and 30 years to make one complete round of thezodiac. The results produced during Saturn’s transit good or bad are longlasting. Being a Karmic planet (Karmakaraka)Saturn’s influence on human beings is highly prominent and has acquired unique significanceespecially during its transit phases. Atany given point of time seven signs in the zodiac will under the influence ofSaturn (three under Sade-Sathi, one each under Ashtama Shani and Kantaka Shani)

Howis Saturn’s Gochaara classified?

Saturn’sGochaara or transit is classified into favourable and un-favourabletransit. When Saturn is transiting 3^rd6^th and 11^th house from Moon sign it is generally consideredas favourable transit during which time good results are expected to beproduced. Transit of Saturn in all other houses generally produces negative resultsconsidered as un-favourable transits. Inauspicioustransits of Saturn are prominently classified as Sade-Sathi, Ashtama Shani,Ardhaashtama Shani and Kantaka Shani.

Whatis Sade-Sathi? How is it described?

Theterm Sade-Sathi is self explicit. It denotes the number of years the transitoryinfluence of Saturn will be on a particular Moon sign that is known as JanmaRaasi of an individual. When Saturn is transiting a particular sign, theprevious as well as the succeeding signs also gets affected. Sade-Sathi starts to an individual whenSaturn transits into the 12^th sign reckoned from Janma Raasi or Moonsign. It will continue during thesojourn of Saturn in the 12^th, 1^st, and 2^ndhouses reckoned from Moon sign. Sade-Sathi ends when Saturn transits into 3^rdhouse from the Moon sign. Each sojourn ofSaturn will be for a period of 2 ½ years and as such for three houses puttogether the total period of sojourn during Sade-Sathi will be for 7 ½ years. WhenSaturn transits into the native’s 12^th sign it is known as VyayaShani and in Moon sign (Janma Raasi) it is known as Janma Shani.

Duringthe course of Saturn’s transit around the zodiac an individual will embrace Sade-Sathionly once. That means precisely once in every 30 years an individual will haveto pass through the phase of Sade-Sathi. An individual gets minimum two andmaximum three chances of Sade-Sathi in a life time assumed to be around 90years. Very rarely one may also get four times. On an average majorityexperience Sade-Sathi 3 times precisely for a total period of 22½ years duringa life time.

Saturngenerally aspects 3^rd, 7^th and 10^th house fromthe house or sign where he is posited. Duringfirst leg of Sade-Sathi, Saturn’s aspect will fall on the 2^nd, 6^thand 9^th house while transiting in the 12^th sign, on the 3^rd,7^th, and 10^th house during the second leg while transitingin Janma Raasi (Moon sign) and on the 4^th, 8^th and 11^thhouse during the 3^rd leg of Sade-Sathi while transiting in the 2^ndhouse.

Whatis Ashtama Shani?

Reckonedfrom Moon sign, when Saturn transits into 8^th house it is known asAshtama Shani during which time Saturn and Moon will be in (6/8) Shashtaashtakaposition. Ashtama sthana (8^thhouse) in Astrology is known as Randhra bhava a defective or a malefic house. Italso occurs once in 30 years and at the most three times during the life timeof an individual.

Whatis Ardhaashtama Shani?

Reckonedform Moon sign, when Saturn transits into 4^th house it is known asArdhaashtama Shani. 4^th house is referred to in astrology as thehouse of general happiness. It also occurs once in 30 years and at the mostthree times during the life time of an individual.

Whatis Kantaka Shani?

Transitof Saturn in 4^th, 7^th and 10^th house reckonedfrom Moon sign is known as Kantaka Shani. Kantaka is a Sanskrit word meaning a thorn, the one that gives obstaclesor impediments, a trouble maker.

Howto interpret transit of Saturn (Shani Gochaara)?

Severalinterpretations are prevailing in astrological system for the transit orGochaara of Saturn especially the Sade-Sathi.

Havinglearnt from the above that Saturn’s sojourn viz. Sade-Sathi occurs at the mostthree times during the life time of an individual, first round it is known asMangu Shani, 2^nd round it is known as Pongu Shani and 3^rdround it is known as Marana Shani. While the first and last rounds are said toproduce adverse results, 2^nd round is generally said to produce softand favourable results. Out of three legs of 2½ years each during Sade-Sathi,transit of Saturn in the Moon sign (Janma Raasi) ie.2^nd leg is saidto be more malefic producing adverse results than compared to the other two.During that time natal Moon will be under an eclipse from Saturn.

Fordual (common) signs viz. Virgo, Gemini, Sagittarius, and Pisces, the effect ofSade-Sathi is said to be mediocre. For moving signs (Chara raasis) especiallyCancer (Karkataka) the sign of volatility and Aries (Mesha) the sign ofdebilitation, Sade-Sathi is supposed to produce more dreadful and adverseresults. Sade-Sathi also said to produce adverse results even for Leo (inimical)and Scorpio signs. Transit of Saturn over its natal position is generally saidto be bad. As Swarna Moorthi and Loha Moorthi Saturn produces adverse results,while as Rajatha Moorthi and Thamra Moorthi Saturn gives favourable results orreduction in negative results during Gochaara.

Whatare the general implications of Sade-Sathi on individuals?

Implicationscan generally be summarized as follows.

Untoldsufferings and setbacks, lack of peace, low self-esteem, anxiety, misery, fearof death, friends and relatives will forsake the native, will be cheated, therewill be undesirable or unwanted movements, unnecessary expenditure, loss ofmoney or property, decreased earnings, frequent travelling without any purpose(aimless roaming), suffering from diseases or ill-health like rheumatism/arthritis,neurological, allergy, gastro-intestinal problems, loss of health to thespouse, loss or separation from near and dear, accidents during journey,failures or restricted or stunted progress in all endeavors, loss in power& position, losses in business, secret enemies or people working from behind,recurrence of latent problems or diseases, death or calamity in the family, allegations,wrath from superiors, change of place, lack of recognition, entanglement inlitigations, insults, aberrations and obstacles in the domestic front,misunderstandings, nagging problems etc.

Implicationsof Ashtama & Ardhaashtama Shani

Lossof spouse or separation, loss of wealth, aberrations and obstacles inmarital/domestic front, neglected by the spouse and children, subjected tomenial work, suffers humiliation, will have fear of death, loss of money, lossof power & position, loss of employment, loss of reputation, suffering frominsults, financial problems, incurring of debts, confinement, cheating, secretenemies, loss or separation from near and dear, death or calamity in thefamily, compelled to leave the homeland etc. During Ashtama Shani Gochaara ifthere is a coincidence of malefic Dasa-Bhukti there could be drastic changes inthe life of an individual that may also lead to renunciation.

Exceptions

Aboveimplications of Sade-Sathi or Saturn’s un-favourable Gochaara should not beapplied as it is to the individual Moon signs. The results are likely to getmodified depending on the strength, nature and position of Saturn in the natalchart, running Dasa-Bhukti, relationship of Saturn to the Ascendant (Lagna) orMoon sign and various other factors. Other factors include verifying Bindus inSaturn’s Ashtakavarga and Sarvaashtakavarga, Vedha and Vipareetha-Vedhavichaara, Moorthi Nirnaya, Stellar constellation of transiting Saturn withrespect the birth star etc.

IfSaturn is a Yogakaraka (Taurus & Libra signs), is in an exalted position(Libra) and posited in a Trine (Trikona), ascendant or Moon sign lord (Aquarius& Makara Lagnas), in such cases also the evil results gets modified.Therefore a careful assessment of conventional results combined with the othertechniques in vogue should be made before making a conclusion on the Gochaaraimplications.

Whatare the good effects that generally happen during Sade-Sathi?

Onthe contrary to the adverse results, certain good things also happen duringSade-Sathi like ringing of marriage bells for the unmarried, birth of a child, elevation in thejob front, gaining of power and position, purchase of properties etc.

GenerallySade-Sathi will be a period of trials, tribulations and challenges to anindividual.

Relatedposts you may like to read!

PlanetaryTransits-Predictive Techniques–Impact on individuals

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/planetary-transit-results-techniques.html

PlanetaryTransits (Gochaara) – Concept & Significance

http://bhargavasarma.blogspot.com/2011/11/panetary-transits-gochaara-concept.html

Transitof Saturn into Libra (Thula) sign is taking place on 15.11.2011.

Stay tuned formore information on Saturn’s transit into Libra.

Sri Krishnaarpanamasthu