Why are the Nakshatras (Constellations) important?
‘Naksha’ in Sanskrit, means map and ‘Tara’ means stars, therefore Nakshatra is a map of the stars. The zodiac signs (from Aries to Pisces) are seen, if we imagine the sky to be a giant circle and divide it into 12 equal parts. Thus, each zodiac sign is 30 degrees (360 degrees÷12). Similarly, the Nakshatras (from Ashwini to Revati) are seen, if the sky divided into 27 equal parts. Each Nakshatra is roughly 13.3 degrees (360 degrees÷27) and these Nakshatras are within the 12 zodiac signs itself.
A 28th Nakshatra known as Abhijit Nakshatra is important, for deciding auspicious timings or ‘shubh muhurts.’
The Moon is the planet which represents our mind, emotions and hormones. The Moon travels in each Nakshatra for about a day and thus completes its 28 days cycle, across each of the Nakshatras.
The Moon is placed in a particular constellation, at the exact moment of our birth. This Nakshatra becomes our birth- Nakshatra and can reveal many of our characteristics.
The placement of the planets in the different zodiac signs and houses of our natal-chart (kundli) and their transits, are of paramount importance. Similarly, the placement of these planets within the different Nakshatras and their transits, also govern patterns in our lives.
Understanding the various Nakshatras, gives us much deeper insights. The classification of various Nakshatras also helps us make the best use of them, at different points in time.
Let us learn more about the various Nakshatras.
Ashwini Nakshatra-The 1st Constellation:
Symbol: Horse-Head
Zodiac: 0 degrees - 13:20 degrees (Aries)
Ruling Planet: Ketu (the South Lunar Node)
Ruling Deity: Ashwini Kumaras (the horse-headed twins who are believed to be the Physicians of the Gods or celestial healers)
As the horse depicts swiftness and strength, those born under the Ashwini Nakshatra are very dynamic. They are usually bold and quick to initiate things. The natives have a lot of energy and are normally youthful in appearance.
Ketu is the ruling planet, which represents detachment, being directionless, ascetism, spirituality and liberation.
This Nakshatra falls entirely under Aries (a fire-sign). Aries is ruled by the energetic Mars, thus natives are always on the move and passionate about their ideas.
The ruling deity for this Nakshatra, are the powerful Ashwini Kumaras. The horse-headed twins are believed to ride a golden chariot, as they chase the first rays of dawn. Together they can symbolise a transformation, from the darkness to the light.
Positively, natives can be self-reliant, dignified and go-getters. They are highly intelligent, good with finances and genuinely care about people.
Negatively, natives can be over-confident, stubborn and vengeful. They can take on too much and be dissatisfied, if they are unable to finish the tasks.
Career options for those born under Ashwini:
Doctors/Nurses
Engineers
Counsellors
Researchers
Travel bloggers
So, is your birth Nakshatra Ashwini?