NAVAGRAHA DEVATAS--NINE HINDU DEITIES OF SOLAR SYSTEM

(DISCOURSE BY N. R. SRINIVASAN)

The magnetic movement of heavenly bodies through the Solar system and the mystery of the laws that guide them have inspired our thinkers and dreamers throughout our human history, from religious scholars to astrophysicists, form poets to philosophers. The center of our solar system is a star we call the Sun. Orbiting the Sun are seven known planets, some of which are orbited by one or more moons, as our home planet, Earth is. Earth is very small compared to the Sun, and this is one of the billion stars in our Galaxy, the Milky Way, which is itself a tiny speck in an unimaginably vast Universe. Hindu Rishis were the earliest to study the solar system scientifically with their customary reverence to Intelligent Design.

Sages in the Vedic period have realized that the manifested Universe (Jagat) has sprung out of the Supreme spirit and that each fragment of the Universe is influenced by the rest of the Universe and vice versa. Through their observation of the sky above and by their yogic powers, the sages perceived perfect harmony and order in the movement of the heavenly bodies. Closely watching the solar system to which the earth belongs, our sages observed that the apparent path covered by the sun in relation to earth called the ecliptic recurred periodically with rhythmic precision. Likewise, they noticed that the Moon's path in relation to earth also occurred at regular intervals. Based on these observations they established units of time, such as day, month, year etc and gained the ability to precisely forecast the time of these recurring celestial events. Thus they gave the mankind a system of time measurement by which correct times of observance of religious rites can be ascertained in accordance with saastric injunctions. These were the origin of Panchangam, the Hindu Almanac. Panchangam deals with five Angas (parts)—Vaara (day), Tithi (day of the fortnight), Nakshatra, Yoga and Karana.

Religion being the core of Hindu life, science subjects were cultivated first that could contribute to religion. Astronomy grew out of the worship of heavenly bodies and the observation of their movements aimed to fix the calendar of festival and sacrificial days. The scientists of India were her priests or Gurus.

Astonomy is an incidental off spring of Astrology or Jyotisha. Varahamihira's compendium, Siddhanta (ca 425 B.C.) was significantly entitled complete system of Natural Astrology. The greatest astronomer Aryabhatta, explained eclipses, solstices and the equinoxes and established the spheroid of the earth and its diurnal revolution on its axis and wrote, "the sphere of the stars is stationary and the earth, by its revolution, produces the daily rising and setting of planets and stars". Aryabhatta, Brahmagupta and his followers adopted to Hindu usage the Babylonian division of the stars into zodiacal constellations; they made a calendar of twelve months, inserting an intercalary month every five years; they calculated with remarkable accuracy the diameter of the moon, the eclipses of the moon and the sun, the position of the poles and the position of the major stars.

Tyco Brahe (1546-1641 A.D.) felt that the planets revolved round the sun and moon and sun in turn revolved round the earth in ellipses. Brahmagupta, who systematized astronomical knowledge, obstructed its further development temporarily by rejecting Aryabhatta's theory of the revolution of the earth, like Tyco Brahe.

Astrology, the age old practice of predicting people's features by casting their horoscopes based on the position of the stars, the planets and the moon, is lot of moonshine, in the opinion of most scientists and one held by the 20^th century French researchers Michael and Francoise Gauqualin, who have spent 20 years in investigating the subject.

Nostradamus (1503-1566), the French astrologer and physician, indeed predicted many incidents in World History—the execution of King Charles IX, the rise and fall of Napoleon and Adolf Hitler and even the assassination of Kennedy. Some of them could be strange coincidences and some of them could be explained by theory of probability.

Zodiac Belt is the great circle around which our luminescent Sun apparently moves month by month throughout the year. Twelve zodiac constellations are placed along the ecliptic path traveling the zodiac belt. Their names are Aries (ram), Taurus (bull), Gemini (twins), Cancer (crab), Leo (lion), Virgo (virgin), Libra (scale), Scorpio (scorpion), Sagittarius (archer), Capricorn(goat), Aquarius (water bearer) and Pisces (fish). These are called Raasis in Sanskrit. The entry of sun into a raasi is called Sankramana or Sankranti. The twelve Raasis are: Mesha, Vrushabha, Mithuna, Kataka, Simha, Kanya, Tula,Vrischika, Dhanus, Makara, Kumbha and Meena. The Zodiac is an imaginary belt in the sky which represents the orbit of the Sun around the earth. This System was also devised by Ptolemy, a Roman astrologer who felt that the earth was stationary and all planets revolved around it, known as Ptolemaic system. This system is also still used by astrologers today in the West, even though we know that earth and all other planets in the solar system orbit the Sun. The zodiac belt is divided into twelve sections of 30 degrees each named after a constellation.

In Hindu astrology great importance is placed on the position of the various planets in the twelve constellations of the zodiac, the belt around the sky in which the movements of the Sun, Moon and planets are confined. All astrology is totally based on the planetary movements and its effects on human beings. Therefore planets and their movements played a significant role in the Vedic culture, which they attributed to the manifestation and will of the Supreme.

Hindu astrologers emphasized that the nine Grahas usually translated into English as planets—Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu give us pleasure and serenity and remove obstacles from our way. The names of the first seven heavenly bodies are still connected in various cultures of the world with seven days of the week as in Hindu system of astrology.

The Hindu astrology is based on an elaborate calculation of the position of these planets at the time of one's birth. For example the zodiac is divided into twelve zodiac houses of 30 degrees each called Rasi. The planet Sun travels to one of these houses each month. Similarly other planets have their times of travel through these zodiac assigned to them. As the planets travel through these zodiac signs, their respective positions with respect to each other changes and this is supposed to determine the fate of the human affairs. An astrologer can draw up a horoscope of a person based on his time of birth and calculate the relative positions of the planets relative to this horoscope. Planets are also believed to influence the outcomes of historical events of entire nations and the earth. Each planet has its own mode of circumambulation clockwise or anticlockwise, which fact is also known to modern day scientists. Each planet faces a different direction. In religious rites betel nuts represent the planets and priest invites each planet there to witness and bless the puja. In Puranas they are all represented as deities borne in cars (vehicles). They are propitiated because of their sinister effects (Saturn, Rahu and Ketu) and for their favorable influence (Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, Mars, Sun and the Moon). In addition to the planets, twenty seven Nakshatras (constellations) through which the Moon passes and twelve signs of zodiac of the Sun, regarded as deities are consulted at birth, rejoicing, distress and calamity. In astrology, Nakshatra (translated as star into English) is only one of the 27 segments of the zodiac belt whereas in astronomy stars are heavenly twinkling bodies in the sky. Shanti (peace) propitiation ceremony is held to appease any unfavorable constellation.

The Moon completes a circuit of its path with respect to the earth in about 27.33 days. Hence the Zodiacal belt is divided into 27 equal parts of 13 degrees 20" each called Nakshatras. The first segment longitude of the Moon 0 degrees to 13 degrees and 20" is called Aswini, the second 13 degrees 20" is Bharani and so on. 346 degrees 40" to 360 degrees is Revati, the last Nakshatra. The segment in which moon lies at the time of birth of a person is called Janma Nakshatra(birth star) of that person. When the longitude of the Moon is 133 degrees 20" to 146 degrees 40" at birth, the Janma Nakshtra is Poorva Phaalgun. For the name of all Nakshatras visit the blog <nrsrini.blogspot.com>on Hindu Calendar.

Recently elaborate research study has been undertaken by Dr B.N. Narahari, Professor of Physics at University of Memphis, on the date of Mahabharata War simulations using the planetarium software. A search was made for the years in which there is conjunction of Saturn (Sani) with Rohini (Aldebaran) between 3500 B.C. and 500 B.C. Based on the findings a unique date of 3067 B.C., for the date of Mahabharata war has been determined. This date is consistent with all other astronomical references in the Mahabharata in several publications, determined with the help of copious illustrations of star maps generated by the planetarium software. The date provided by the software provides an anchor sheet for the history of India.

The Navagrahas or the nine planetary gods worshipped together in all Hindu temples, invoking the Lord in the form of planetary deities is one of the unique forms of worshipping Iswara (Saguna Brahman) seen in the Vedic culture. The nine Grahas represent the star Surya, ( Sun); Chandra or Soma, (Moon), the satellite of the Earth; the five planets—Kuja or Mangala, (Mars); Budha, (Mercury);Guru or Brihaspati, (Jupiter); Sukra,(Venus); Shani, (Saturn); which are close to the earth in the order of their distances from the Sun; and, finally Rahu and Ketu which are not planets but are the ascending and descending nodes of the moon as it enters the ecliptic and leaves it, which have been given the status of planets in mythology. Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are called in Samskrit as Varuna, Indra and Prajapati respectively. Prominence for these planets has not been given in Hindu predictive Astrology as their effects on human beings are believed to be negligible. Kathopanishad mentions 'Uma of the golden hue' as the Goddess Mother Earth whom the followers of Siva have adopted as the consort of Siva, one of the Trinities. The planet Earth is always considered as a vital element and is included amongst five prime elements called Pancha Bhootas—Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ethereal Space (sky) and therefore not included in the group of Navagrahas. However, earth planet is worshipped by all Vaishnavites as Bhudevi, one of the consorts of Lord Vishnu while Sridevi (Lakshmi) is the other consort.

Navagraha deities worshipped as planetary deities in Hindu Temples are perceived as having the greatest influence on the physical and psychic conditions of the living beings on earth. If the Moon can affect the tides in the sea, why can't stars and planets affect the tides in the life of a man? Man is essentially an electromagnetic network. There is a lot of references on human magnetism. So movement of planets and stars which affect the earth's magnetic fields should also affect the magnetic fields of human beings. At a time when Vedic rituals were all important, there was a great need to determine the correct times for performing them. This gave rise to a new branch of knowledge called "Jyotisha" or "Jyautisha" which was deemed as Vedaanga, a subsidiary science of Veda. This was the origin of Hindu Astronomy and dates back to 1400 B.C. according to modern historians. Jyotisha Shastra includes astronomy and astrology. Jyotisha Shastra connects the life events of human beings to the orderly patterns of the movements of the planets in the earth's solar system. Astrology according to Hindus is not a mere superstition of gazing the stars and making fantastic predictions, but is based on the firm tenets of the doctrine of Karma and rebirth of Sanatana Dharma. Hindu Panchanga provides a dating system which can be used in civil affairs such as dating of documents, letters, maintaining accounts etc. It also forecasts the occurrences of daily celestial phenomena such as Tithis and Nakshatras-- the dates and times when religious festivals are to be observed and auspicious moments to be observed for other socio-religious functions such as wedding, Upanayanam etc based on duration of Tithis and Nakshatras and on planetary positions.

The nine planets in the Solar System were familiar with Hindu sages in the Vedic culture, long before they were discovered by the Western World. In Hindu temples, to-day during traditional Vedic rituals, Yajnas and Veda chanting, Indra, Varuna and Prajapati (Neptune, Uranus and Plato planets) are invoked invariably. Thus all the planets in the solar system are traditionally worshipped in the Hindu Temples besides Sun, Moon, Rahu, Ketu and Mother Earth. There are exclusive temples for individual deities in the group of Navagraha planets in Tamil Nadu in India, where Saiva Siddhanta is vigorously followed in Saiva temples. Surya temple in Konrak in Orissa and Surya temple in Andhra Pradesh are quite famous. Navagraha Puja and Navagraha Homa are popular amongst Siva worshippers in India.

The position in which the Navagraha Deities have to be installed in the temples gives the inkling as to what they are actually meant to represent to man. In Saivite temples in South India there is always an altar dedicated to the nine planetary devatas. In North Indian temples they are displayed on the lintels of doors. This is to protect the temple as well as those who enter it from evil eyes. They are usually housed on a small pavilion (Mandapa) with or without enclosure. The Nine Grahas are installed in such a way that no two of them will face each other. It is said sometimes that images of the planets are set up in the order in which they are in zodiacal circle at the time of construction. The image of Soorya is always in the center of the planet, facing east with other planets fixed around him each in a specific direction.

The idols are to be installed with the Sun at the center. The other eight deities stand surrounding the Sun in such a way that no deity faces another. The eight Grahas surrounding the Sun represent the eight-fold lower nature of the Lord which becomes Jeeva. Graha literally means 'to grab'. They are probably called so because they cause ellipse by grabbing the Sun and the other stars. The world play is the play of two natures, attracting or catching and pulling one another. Since the nine grahas catch one another, they are called the Navagrahas or the 'nine catchers'. All the restlessness of man is due to the mutual attraction of these two tendencies. When a man knows how to keep natures within him separate from one another, he stands at peace with himself and with the world around. Navagraha also means a "New grasp". A deeper investigation into the names of these deities and their vahanas (vehicles), gives us a new understanding about life and mysteries, which are presumed to be influenced by the deities.

SURYA (RAVI) – Surya is always associated with a ratha (chariot) drawn by seven horses. Surya means promoter; ratha means movement. Seven horses stand for the seven types of appetites. The superior nature of Lord entering into individual egos promote the seven types of appetites—five senses, the Mind and the Intellect. Sunlight has seven colors, allegorically described as seven horses. Because the sun's essential nature is light, it is called "aatmakaaraka" or the presiding deity of the aatma. The Sun governs person's confidence, authority and status. The Sun is also the presiding deity of the eyes and rules the zodiac sign Leo. Vishnu Purana states that the Sun does not move; nor does it rise or set. Rising and setting imply appearance and disappearance. The Sun god is one of the most important deities in the Vedas. According to the Rigveda, Aditi had eight sons known as Adityas. She threw one of her off springs because she did not want to be associated with its burning heat. Another myth tells how Surya arose from the eyes of the great giant Purusha. In the Brahmapurana, Surya is attributed with twelve 'splendors' and given 12 names of distinct deities including Indra, Varuna, Vishnu and Mitra. Surya himself is said to be Supreme Spirit identified with Brahman, who by means of these splendors permeates the universe and radiates so far as the secret soul of man. Surya is also a descendant of Kashyapa in mythology. Sun is a fireball and its diameter is approximately 86400 miles. It is approximately 93,000,000 miles away. Earth and moon get their light from Sun. Anything bigger than this size would burn the recipient planets. Anything smaller than this would make them cold and dark. The first day of the week in the name of the Sun is not only prevalent amongst Hindus, in Sanskrit and other languages but also in Western world as SUN-day. All these makes the Sun foremost amongst the Navagrahas.
CHANDRA (INDU; SOMA)—Chandra is Moon God, seen riding on a chariot drawn by ten white horses. Chandra means allurer—allurer to the Jeeva which is hungry for the lure of the sense objects offered by the world. Chandragraha is the nearest to the earth planet. It is approximately 240,000 miles from the earth. Moon is the second graha in the southeast direction in the Navagraha configuration. In mythology Moon was born in the milky ocean during churning along with nectar. Amrita and Rohini are his wives. He is assisted by Varuna and Gowri deities. Moon is the presiding deity of the mind and emotions. This devata is depicted holding lotus buds in his hands. He rules the zodiac sign of Cancer.

KUJA (MANGALA; ANGARAKA)—Kuja is seen riding a goat (Mesha). The Mars god, Kuja means stealing, coming from the Sanskrit root kuj, to steal. Mesha is winking, that means it is thinking. A continuous brooding or thinking about the attractive objects steals the individual away. Kuja is the son of Earth Goddess. In the Puranas, he is also described as Kartikeya, the son of Lord Siva and Goddess Parvati. He is depicted as wearing red clothes and carrying a spear. He governs the qualities of courage and bravery and presides over siblings and health. He rules the zodiac signs Aries and Scorpio. There are facilities for life sustenance in this planet as per modern scientists. Researches are going on to further this theory.

BUDHA (SOWMYA)—The Mercury God rides on a lion. Budha means recognition. A knowledge of how the wisdom is being stolen away comes to man on self-mastery. Simha means mastering (sahanaat simhaha). A man of self control can recognize how he is becoming a slave to the sense objects by his unintelligent brooding over them. In mythology Budha is the son of Moon God. Budha deity presides over Intelligence. He governs a person's teaching capacities. He is depicted as holding the Vedas in one hand, a sword in the other. His other two hands carry a mace and a shield. He rules the zodiac signs, Gemini and Virgo.

GURU (BRIHASPATI)—Jupiter God rides on Hamsa, the mythical swan. Guru means remover of darkness. Hamsa is the mythical bird that is capable of separating milk from a mixture of milk and water, accepting only the milk and rejecting water in it. Thus the actual removal of the ignorant attraction is not by recognition alone but by proper discrimination. Guru is the presiding deity of religious inclinations and prosperity. He is also the presiding deity of married life for woman. He is described in the Puranas as Brihaspati (one who possesses sharp intelligence), the preceptor of Devas. He is often depicted in a standing posture with four hands, in one of which he holds a weapon called the Vajraayudha. He rules the signs Sagittarius and Pisces.

SUKRA (BHRIGU)—Venus god rides on a Mandooka that is a frog. Shukra means 'bright illumination'. It comes on satisfaction. Mandooka means those who dwell in satisfaction (manda esha oka iti) on perfect contentment and applying themselves to the contemplation of higher Reality, when the illumination dawns. Sukra is the presiding deity of material comforts, arts, culture and aesthetics. He possesses the qualities of a poet. He is also the presiding deity of love and married life of men. In the Puranas he is depicted as the preceptor of King Bali and the demons. Sukra is depicted as standing with his hands folded. He is the ruler of zodiac signs Taurus and Libra.

SANI—Saturn God rides on crow. Sani means slowness and laziness. Kaaka (crow) means that which is to be driven out. In the matter of Saadhana (achieving) there should be no relaxation or laziness—such tendencies should be firmly eliminated. Sani is the presiding deity of longevity, calamities and difficulties in life and at the same time of renunciation and spiritual wisdom. He presides over painful experiences and inner growth. In the Puranas, he is considered as the son of Sun god and brother of Yama. He is depicted with a dark complexion, bearing a mace and moving at slow pace. His eyes or generally blindfolded because of the belief that his glance is very powerful and may bring misfortune. He rules the zodiac signs of Capricorn and Aquarius.

RAHU—Rahu is the combination of two roots in Sanskrit, raa and hu meaning to surrender and offer in sacrifice respectively. He rides on a lion, Simha. Simha means Himsa turned back, that is non-injury cultivated. Non-injury is the carrier of the spirit of surrender and sacrifice to the Lord. Rahu is closely connected to Ketu in mythology, born of a rakshasa, a demon. Rahu is the presiding deity of worldly desire. Astronomically, it is not a planet but the ascending nodal point of the Moon. The upper body of Rahu is similar to man and the lower half is like a snake being the converse of Ketu. Rahu does not rule any sign but gives the effect of the ruler of the sign where it is situated.

KETU—Ketu means praajna or pure consciousness His vehicle is an owl or Gridhra. Gridhra in Sanskrit is derived from the root gridh which means endeavor to gain. An effort to gain consciousness is the carrier of knowledge which cannot be gained without proper effort. Ketu is the presiding deity of Moksha (moksha is derived from two words moha and kshaya) or freedom from limitations. Ketu is not a planet but the descending nodal point of the Moon. He is closely connected with Rahu. In mythology, it is born of a rakshasa, a demon. The upper half of Ketu's body is similar to the head of the snake and lower half is like a man, being the converse of Rahu. Ketu like Rahu does not rule any zodiac sign but gives the effect of the ruler where it is situated. In mythology a demon called Viprasena, born of Simhika, wanted to share the divine nectar, disguising himself as a deva. But Vishnu cut off his head with the nectar serving ladle while serving nectar to devas. Because of the previous consumption of nectar, the head survived and worshipped Lord Siva and got the status of planets. Accordingly Rahu got the status of a planet with human head and serpent body, and, Ketu also got the status of a planet with human body and serpent head.

While performing Navagraha Shanti Puja each Graham or planet is specifically offered a particular grain, which after puja is fed to cows. These are: Sun--wheat; Moon—rice or paddy; Mars—red gram (tuar); Mercury—green gram; Jupiter—Bengal gram;Venus—flat white beans (avarai); Saturn—black sesame; Rahu—black gram; Ketu—horse gram.

It is also customary for the performer to wear specific precious stone jewelry for the Graham, whose benefits or evil ward-off are sought after, during Shanti Puja and also invoke the ruling deity of the planet:

1. Surya—Agni, fire god, Siva; Red ruby stone.

2. Moon—Aapaha, Water god, Parvati; pearl

3. Mars—Bhumi (Earth), Skanda; Red coral.

4. Mercury—Vishnu (Preserver); Emerald.

5. Jupiter—Indra (king of Devas), Brahma; Yellow sapphire, Yellow topaz.

6. Venus—Indrani (queen of gods); diamond.

7. Saturn—Yama, God
of Death, Prajapati; Blue sapphire and black stones. 8. Rahu (dragon's head)—Durga (Goddess of Power), Naga devata (serpent god); honey

colored hessonite.

9. Ketu (dragon's tail)—Chitragupta (God of Karma); Cat's eye.

[Ruling deities are shown in bold letters]

Even in Western belief, precious stones play an important role in human life. They believe in the superstition of birth stones for the twelve months of the calendar year. According to the belief, diamond made people lucky in love as well as strong and courageous; Sapphire, next to diamond is the strongest. It is supposed to possess mystical qualities including promotion of peace and purification of mind; Emerald, in ancient times was powdered and taken believing to cure fever; Ruby, the rarest of the gems, particularly Burmese ruby was thought to promote good health and keep looking young. They were said to guard fruit trees from disease.

Before leaving the temple devotees offer prayers to Navagrahas by circumambulating nine times around the altar, while chanting Navagraha Stotram or the following prayer:

"Aarogyam pradadaatu noe dinakaraha

Chandroe yasoe nirmalam

Bhootim bhoomisutaha sudhaamsu

Tanaya prajnam guru gauravam

Kaavyaha koemala-vag vilaasam-atulam

Mandoe mudam sarvadaa

Rahur baahubalam viroedha shamanam

Ketuhu kulasyoennatim"

May the Sun give us long life and good health; the Moon pure fame; the son of Earth, Mars, charisma and prosperity; the son of the Moon, Mercury, intelligence; Jupiter, respectability; the one possessed of the qualities of a poet, Venus, the capacity for unsurpassed and elegant speech; the one of slow gait, Saturn, continual joy and pleasure; Rahu, strength and the destruction of the enemies; and Ketu, growth of the family.

"Namaha Sooryaaya Chandraaya Mangalaaya Budhaaya cha

Guruhu Sukraha Shanibhyascha Raahave Ketave namaha"

I offer my obeisance to Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu.

Nobel laureate Venkatraman Ramakrishnan was awarded the 2009 Nobel Prize in chemistry for his research on ribosomes. While many Hindus consider astrology to be an important Vedic science and schedule life events around the movements of the stars, Ramakrishnan has spoken out against this practice. In an interview with the Hindustan Times he said: "There is no scientific basis for how movement of planets and stars can influence our fate. There is no reason for time of birth to influence events years later. The predictions made are either obvious or shown to be random ... A culture based on superstitions will do worse than one based on scientific knowledge and rational thoughts.”

This lecture has been prepared by extracting, abridging and editing texts from the following sources by N.R. Srinivasan for the Vedanta Class at Sri Ganesha Temple at Nashville:

Swami Harshananda, An Introduction to Vedic Culture, Ramakrishna Math, Bangalore.
Swami Nityananda, Symbolism in Hinduism, Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, Mumbai, India.
Sumita and Sundar Ramaswamy, Vol. II, Vedic Heritage, Arsha Vidya Gurukulam, Pennsylvania, U.S.A.
R. Kumar, North American Panchangam 2006, The Hindu Society of North Amrican Temples, New York, U.S.A.
Arthur Cotterell & Rachelstorm, Mythology, Anness Publishing Limited, U.K.
Readers Digest, Book of Facts 1987, Readers Digest Association Inc., U.S.A.
Will Durant, The Story of Civilization, Vol. I, Simon & Schuster, U.S.A.

8. Ed.Viswanathan, Am I A Hindu? Rupa & Co. New Delhi, India, 2003.

APPENDIX

A NOTE ON GRAHAS (CATCHERS) TRANSLATED AS ALL PLANETS

For all the people of the world (except Indian Astrologers), our Sun never moves like all other stars in our milky way. Only the planets and satellites move.

The speed of our Earth is as follows: Its radius is 6.37 million meters. That means, 6.37 times tenth power of six meters. The circumference of our Earth is 2piR = 2(22/7)6.37(1000000)m. When we divide this by 24 hours and 1609 m, we get 1036.876 miles per hour. Because one mile equals 1609 m, we divided by 1609 m in order to get in miles. THE SPEED OF OUR EARTH IS 1036.876 MILES PER HOUR. It rotates by itself with this speed and moves on constantly on the elliptical orbit while our Sun is in one of the focal points of the ellipse. Remember, no circular orbit, but elliptical orbit (egg shaped orbit). Our Earth is also constantly wobbling from 0 to 23.5 degrees above Equator (middle line of our Earth) for six months and below Equator for six months. When we sit on the Earth, while Earth is doing all these, we apparently feel as if Our Sun is moving north of Equator or south of Equator. In reality, Our Sun never moves but our Earth moves. When we sit near the window of our moving train, we see as if all the trees and mountains are moving. In reality, they are not moving, but we are moving. When we docircumambulation, we rotate out body and move around the prakaaram at the same time. Our Earth also does the same thing.

When we come shortest distance to our Sun, we have summer. When we go longest distance from our Sun, we have winter. Between summer and winter, we have Autumn. Between winter and summer, we have spring.

In the early days, people worshipped Sun as God. They thought that the Earth was the center of the universe, and the Sun was moving around the Earth. This was called as GEOCENTRIC THEORY by Ptolemy. GEO means Earth. Then Galileo proposed HELIOCENTRIC THEORY. The Sun was the center of the universe while all the planets were moving around the Sun. He also discovered many things, like the actual value of the gravity of the Earth, telescopes, and conducted many experiments. He was charged by Catholic Churches that he was corrupting the minds of the people, and put him in prison until his death. Then Copernicus discovered the ELLIPTICAL THEORY which is true even today. All the planets are moving on elliptical orbit while the Sun is at one of the focal points of the ellipse. All these are taught in all the high schools, colleges and universities in India and all the countries of the world.

Only in India, the astrologers make the Hindus believe in the center of the universe, the planet Sun, planet Moon, planet Ragu, and planet Kethu, planet Budha, planet Sukra, planet Kuja, planet Guru, and planet Shani are moving around the Earth. This has been going on for generation after generation, just because the Hindus do jot question our astrologers or Scriptures:

1. “He who fixed firm the earth that staggered, and set at rest the agitated mountains, who measured out the air's wide middle region and gave the heaven support, he men is Indra"

Rig Veda 2: 12: 2.

We all now know today that the earth rotates itself and orbits on the elliptical path with sun at one of the focal points of the ellipse. The earth is not at all fixed and the sun is not at all going around the earth.

2. "In the beginning rose Hiranyagarba, born only Lord of all created beings. He fixed and holds up the earth and the heaven".

Rig Veda 10: 121: 1

We all know now today that the earth rotates itself with a speed of 1037 miles per hour and moves on the elliptical path while the sun rests on one of the two focal points of the ellipse. The earth moves, the sun rests but not the other way.

3. "Firm is the sky and firm is the earth and steadfast are all this living world".

Rig Veda 10: 173: 4

4. "The Bull has supported the sky"

Yajur Veda 4: 30 5

5. "God has firmly fixed the earth with pegs around it".

Yajur Veda 5: 16 6

This is wrong. Where is the proof? We are sitting on the earth which rotates by itself with a speed of 1037 miles per hour and orbits on the path of the ellipse with sun at one of the two focal points of the ellipse.

6. "North West of the Heavens".

Yajur Veda 13: 56, 57 7

7. "The Bull has supported the sky".

Yajur Veda 14: 5 8

Both Rig Veda and Yajur Vedas conflict with science today because the earth rotates by itself with a speed of 1037 miles per hour and orbits on the elliptical path of the ellipse with sun rests on one of the two focal points of the ellipse.

A simple translation of Grahas as Catchers ( who influence our lives) and heavenly bodies or points in solar system would be more appropriate though most authors translate them as Planetary Deities.

APPENDIX

WHY RUSH TO ASTROLOGERS & NAVAGRAHA ALTARS TO CHANGE OUR DESTINY?

(Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev, ISHA Foundation)

Nowadays, for anything that people want to do, they want to look at the planets and stars. If you want to step out of your house, the planets should align themselves properly. People are looking at the right time, the wrong time, rahukalam, gunakalam and whatever else. If they want to get married, they go and ask a third person, “Can I live happily with my wife?” Whoever it is that you marry, why can’t you live well with her or him? Or if they show some new kind of madness that you did not expect, why don’t you leave them?

Should inanimate things decide the course of your destiny or should human nature decide the destiny of inanimate things?

If your intelligence is functioning, nobody can predict what you will do tomorrow and how you will live your life. Can you predict what an intelligent man will do tomorrow? No, because he may do something that has never happened on the planet. All your predictions are about things that have happened. He may do something that you have never even imagined. If any human being’s life can be written before he lives it, that is for sure a “horror-scope.”

A horoscope is all about how the planets are influencing your life. Planets are inanimate things. Should inanimate things decide the course of your destiny or should human nature decide the destiny of inanimate things? It is human nature that should decide. If planets are deciding the course of your destiny, it means your human nature is not even functioning to the level of inanimate objects. Dogs and cats will not allow planets to influence their life. They live the way they want to live. But human lives are unfortunately influenced by inanimate objects.

So is there nothing to it? There is something to it, but as usual human beings exaggerate things. On a full moon day and new moon day, if a person has any kind of psychological ailment, he becomes a little more imbalanced on those days. But do we all go crazy on full moon and new moon days? No, because compared to that man, you are a little more stable and established in your mind. That person cannot control it; just the position of the moon is driving him crazy. It is happening in everyone, but not to such a point that it will decide the way you are because you are more stable compared to that person.

If you are truly stable within, let every planet go wherever it wants to go, you will go where you want to go.

Similarly, if you are truly stable within, let every planet go wherever it wants to go, you will go where you want to go. Otherwise, every little change will influence you. If you are in a certain state of susceptibility, these things will work to some extent in your life. But if you are well established within yourself, no planet is going to decide the course of your life. Human nature should decide the course of your life. The source of creation which is functioning within you, if that cannot decide the course of your destiny, but planets – inanimate objects – can decide the course of your destiny, something is wrong. If you are a little more centered within yourself, all these things will not influence you. You will go where you want to go.

When anyone says “I am on the spiritual path,” what it means is, “It does not matter where the planets are, it does not matter what karma I have, I am going the way I want to go. I am going to go towards liberation.” That is what spirituality means – taking destiny into your hands.

You can either empower yourself so that you decide the course of your destiny, or you can let the planets and a million other things decide the course of your destiny. Unfortunately, people are looking too much at other planets. It is time you get a little interested in the earth and do something about it. I hope people will pay a little more attention to this planet. That is what is needed right now.

HYMNS ON LORD GURU

(Courtesy: Muralidharan Iyengar, Singapore)

The following is a rare royal hymn consisting of 27 names of Lord Guru by Sage Vyasa taken from Brihad-Dharma Puranam, Uttara Khanda, and Chapter 11. In the brief Phalashruti, it is mentioned that one who chants this hymn will be bestowed with enhanced intellect, expertise in Vedas and auspicious travels.

Here is a short and sweet prayer consisting of 27 holy names of Lord Guru/Brihaspati, taken from Brihad Dharma Puranam, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11. The brief Phalashruti promises enrichment of intellect and auspicious travels for the chanter.

Jupiter transit, though a yearly affair, is one of the significant planetary transits as Jupiter is considered a full Shubha-graha and whose grace fructifies the benefits bestowed by other planets. For example, Venus may give comforts but unless Jupiter is well disposed, one may not really enjoy those comforts. Strength of Guru in one's horoscope almost nullifies all other deficiencies, as I am told. From that perspective, Guru's transit gains much importance, the other being Saturn.

In this materialistic era, planetary movements impel hyper-economic activity - at least for the astrologers and those temples associated with transits!! On Thursdays, all Guru/Dakshinamurthy/Hayagriva/Sudarshana Sannadhis will have festive look and one may not be able to enter the temple even. So are Sri Venkateshwara and Anjaneya Sannadhis on Saturdays! For the rest of the week, the respective Lords will be earnestly on-looking for devotees! It is as if those Lords are capable of blessing only on those days and remain castrated for the remaining week!! Stated conversely, it could be that we want those Lords to bless only on a specific day because we have to cover so many Lords on other days!

śrīvyāsa uvāca - atha vakṣye guru-stotraṁ jābāle śṛṇu kathyate || 1 ||

devācāryo gurur jīvaḥ kamanīyaḥ sureśvaraḥ |

vācaspatiḥ paṇḍitaśca sarva-śāstra-varaḥ suraḥ || 2 ||

dhiṣaṇo gīṣpatir brahmā brāhmaṇaśca bṛhaspatiḥ |

śrīmān āṅgirasas tārā-vallabho jīvana-pradaḥ || 3 ||

jyeṣṭho jyeṣṭha-graho vijño dhanurmīnā'dhipo jayaḥ |

śubha-graho yajña-kartā kṛtī citraśikhaṇḍijaḥ || 4 ||

|| phalaśrutiḥ ||

nāmānyetāni jīvasya pādyāni saptaviṁśatiḥ |

buddhi-vṛddhi-karāṇyāhuḥ prasādena bṛhaspateḥ || 5 ||

brāhmaṇo-vedavijñaḥ-syād anyeṣāṁ svocitaṁ phalam |

yātrāyāṁ maṅgalaścāpi stavarājo bṛhaspateḥ || 6 ||

|| śrīguruḥ nāmāvaliḥ ||

om devācāryāya namaḥ | gurave | jīvāya | kamanīyāya | sureśvarāya | vācaspataye | paṇḍitāya | sarva-śāstra-varāya | surāya | dhiṣaṇāya | gīṣpataye | brahmaṇe | brāhmaṇāya | bṛhaspataye | śrīmate | aṅgirase | tārā-vallabhāya | jīvana-pradāya | jyeṣṭhāya | jyeṣṭha-grahāya | vijñāya | dhanurmīnā'dhipāya | jayāya | śubhagrahāya | yajña-kartre | kṛtine | citraśikhaṇḍijāya namaḥ || 27 ||

Iti śrībṛhaddharma purāṇe śrīvyāsa-kṛta śrīguroḥ stavarājaḥ sampūrṇam||

Reference to Mars and Moons in Vedas

Asya Vamasya Sukta in Rig Veda states :”When Earth gave birth to Mars, and Mars separated from his mother, her thigh got injured and she became imbalanced (Earth rotated in its axis) and to stop it Godly doctors, Aswini Kumars poured iron into the triangular shaped injury and Earth got fixed in her current position.

That is why Earth’s axis is bent at a particular angle. That triangular shaped injury on our planet which was filled with iron went onto become Bermuda Triangle. Iron stored inside earth for years becomes natural magnet and Bermuda disappearances, fog, high and low temperature water streams colliding are a result of this.

Moon was also born out of churning of milky ocean and when it rocketed out from Earth at latitude of about 23½ a huge bump created by its ejection came in line with Sun. So, Earth has tilted axis at 23½. Modern science could not explain this phenomenon and also the strange coincidence that Earth is titled at 23½ degrees and Bermuda Triangle is also at 23½!

VENUS THE MOST ADVANCED PLANET

Sukra means "lucid, clear, bright" in Sanskrit. It also refers to the ancient sage who counseled Rakshasas in Vedic mythology. In medieval mythology and Hindu astrology, the term refers to the planet Venus one of the Navagrahas. The week-day Sukravara in Hindu calendar, or Friday, has roots in Sukra (Venus). Sukara Graha is driven by the planet Venus in Hindu astrology. The word "Friday" in the Greco-Roman and other Indo-European calendars is also based on planet Venus.

Science and religion conflate that Venus is the most advanced planet and far superior to all other planets. Venus is the second brightest natural object in the sky. Venus is sometimes referred to as the “morning star” and “evening star”. One day on Venus is longer than one year. Venus is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty. Venus is sometimes called Earth's sister planet. According to the Vedic Astrology Venus have many roles, reaching from being an adviser in guiding them towards making contact with their lost souls and also a spiritual teacher of the highest order.

Sun as spindle pulls all the planets. The planets also equally pull the Sun. If the energy of the planets is less than the energy of the Sun, the planets will collapse on the Sun. The planets with their energy are moving around the huge Sun. Since the planets have different masses, they move with different speeds from different distances from the Sun. Eight of them are moving around the Sun in one direction, while the planet Venus is moving in the opposite direction. The kinetic and rotational energies of Venus is balanced by the energies of the other eight planets. In this way equilibrium is maintained in space by the nine planets around the Sun. Different masses, distances, and speeds are involved to maintain the equilibrium in space which can be fully explained only by Sriman Naarayana or the Supreme. That is why everyone loves Venus as Goddess of Love. She is advanced spiritually and scientifically, much superior than every other planet. If she does not move in the opposite direction to other 8 planets, we will not have our solar system. We will not have galaxies. We will not have the universe. We are blessed by Sriman Naarayana to live in His consort's planet.

NAVAGRAHA STOTRAM

Japaa kusuma sankaasam kaasyapeyam mahaadyutim |
Tamorim sarva paapaghnam pranatosmi Divaakaram ||

[I pay my obeisance to the Sun God, who has infinite effulgence, who has the complexion of red hibiscus flower, who is the son of the sage Kaasyapa, who removes darkness, who destroys all sins of his devotees and who reigns the day].

Dadhi Sankha tushaaraabham ksheerodaarnava sambhavam |

Namaami Sasinaam somam sambhor mukuta bhooshanam ||

[I pay my obeisance to Moon deity, who has the complexion of curd or conch or mist, who has risen from the Milky Ocean and who adorns lord Siva's crown.]

Dharanee garbhasambhootam vidyut kaanti sama prabham |

Kumaaram Sakti hastam tam Mangalam pranamamy-aham ||

[I pay my obeisance to Angaaraka, the son of Mother Earth, who has a luster comparable to the lightning, who is youthful and who holds the weapon Sakti in his hands and who bestows auspiciousness on his devotees.]

Priyangu-kalilikaa-syaamam roopena-apritamam Budham |

Soumyam soumya-gunopetam tam Bhudam pranamaamy-aham ||

[I pay my obeisance to Budha, who is dark as saffron bud and has an incomparable form, who is the son of the Moon (Soma) who is wise and possesses a peaceful demeanor.]

Devaanaam cha risheenaam cha gurum kaanchan sannibham |

Buddhibhootam trilokesam tam namaami Brihaspatim ||

[I pay my obeisance to Brihaspati, who is the preceptor of gods as well as great sages, who has the complexion of gold, who is endowed with a sharp intellect and who is the master of the three worlds.]

Hima kunda mrinaa-laabham daityaanaam paramam gurum |

Sarva saastra pravaktaaram Bhaargavam pranaamaamy-aham ||

[I pay my obeisance to Sukra, the son of Bhrigu, who has the complexion of snow or jasmine flower, or the inner lotus stem, who is the preceptor of demons and who imparts all the scriptures to his disciples.]

Neelaanjana samaa-bhaasham raviputram yama-agrajam |

Chhaaya maartaanda sambhootam tam namaami Sanaischaram ||

[I offer my obeisance to Sanaischara (Saturn), who has a blue complexion and is a son of the Sun god born through Chhaayaa Devi and who is the elder brother of Yama, the God of Death.]

Ardhakaayam mahaa-veeryam chandra-aditya vimardanam |

Simhikaa garbha sambhootam tam Rahum pranamamy-aham ||

[I pay my obeisance to Raahu, who is endowed with only half body but with immense valor, who devours the Sun and the Moon and who is born out of the womb of Simhikaa.]

Palaasa pushpa sankaasam taarakaa-graha mastakam |

Roudram roudra-atmakam ghoram tam Ketum pranamamy-aham ||

[I pay my obeisance to Ketu, who has the complexion of Palaasa flower, who is the leader of stars and planets, who is ghastly in nature and has a ghostly appearance.]

*Iti Vyaasa mukhogeetam yah pateh susamahitah |

Divaa vaa yadi vaa raatrou vighna saantir bhavishyati ||

[All the obstacles will be removed of one who, with undivided devotion, recites this hymn composed by Bhagavaan Vyaasa, either in the day or night.]

*Nara naaree nripaanamcha bhavet dus-svapna naasanam |

Aiswaryam atulam teshaam aarogyam pushti vardhanam ||

[By reciting this hymn, men, women as well as monarchs do not experience bad dreams. On the other hand they obtain m immeasurable wealth, good health and prosperity.}

*Graha nakshatrajaah peedaah taskaraagni samudbhavaaha |

Taah sarvaah prasamam yaanti vyaaso brate na samsayah ||

[Bhagavaan Vyaasa guarantees that one who recites this hymn will easily overcome the ill-effects arising from planets and nakshatras (stars) as well as dangers from thieves, fire and other natural disasters. There is no doubt about it.]

[*The last three verses are usually omitted by many who edit this hymn. They describe the benefits that will accrue by reciting this hymn on Navagrahas, popularly known as Phala-sruti. The author of this hymn is none other than Vyaasa, who is the compiler of Vedas, author of Brahmsootra and all Puranas. He is also an incarnation of Vishnu. He is son of Paraasara.]

Sacred names (Naamaavali) of Planet Jupiter (Guru)

Jupiter is transited into Simha Rasi on Saturday 6-July-2015, or a few days later according to different Panchanga systems as is normal with all astrological predictions and in that connection a short and sweet prayer consisting of 27 holy names of Lord Guru/Brihaspati, taken from Brihad Dharma Puranam, Uttara Khanda, Chapter 11 is attached sent through courtesy Muralidha Iyengar of Singapore. The brief Phalashruti promises enrichment of intellect and auspicious travels for the chanter.

Jupiter's transit, though a yearly affair, is one of the significant planetary transits as Jupiter is considered a full Shubha-graha and whose grace fructifies the benefits bestowed by other planets. For example, Venus may give comforts but unless Jupiter is well disposed, one may not really enjoy those comforts. Strength of Guru in one's horoscope almost nullifies all other deficiencies, as I am told. From that perspective, Guru's transit gains much importance, the other being Saturn. By the way I recently talked about Gurus which you may recall. Hindus have enormous belief in nine Grahas and lot of respect for several Gurus including Indian Prime ministers who often run to Gurus with their horoscopes or practice Yoga or meditate!

In this materialistic era, planetary movements impel hyper-economic activity - at least for the astrologers and those temples associated with transits!! On all Thursdays Dakshinamurthy/Hayagriva/Sudarshana Sanctums will have festive look and one may not be able to enter the temple even. So are Sri Venkateshwara and Anjaneya Sannadhis on Saturdays! For the rest of the week, the respective Lords will be earnestly on-looking for devotees! It is as if those Lords are capable of doing Anugraha only on those days and remain castrated for the remaining week!! Stated conversely, it could be that we want those Lords to bless us only on a specific day because we have to cover so many Lords on other days!!! God in his fancy created funny looking creatures called humans in billions with in-built karmas and provided nine grahas also to determine their destiny while living on earth. Humans in turn challenged and created 330 Million Gods out of Him and are adding more guru-deities like Ramakrishna, Swami Narayan, Sankara, Ramanuja, Madhva, Saibaba etc.; Many are on the waiting list?

To illustrate - Thiruvalithayam is a famous Guru Sthala in Padi, Chennai and it is quite possible that one may not be able to even go near the temple on Thursdays now. About 15 years ago, the temple was hardly known and famous although it is one of the 275 Padal-Petra-Sthalams. The same temple used to be deserted on other days! They all learnt their lesson from Thirupathi. The devotees are now after the destruction of all natural surroundings to have permanent residency there after retirement.

Srīvyāsa uvāca –

atha vakṣye guru-stotraṁ jābāle śṛṇu kathyate || 1 ||

devācāryo gurur jīvaḥ kamanīyaḥ sureśvaraḥ |

ācaspatiḥ paṇḍitaśca sarva-śāstra-varaḥ suraḥ || 2 ||

dhiṣaṇo gīṣpatir brahmā brāhmaṇaśca bṛhaspatiḥ |

śrīmān āṅgirasas tārā-vallabho jīvana-pradaḥ || 3 ||

jyeṣṭho jyeṣṭha-graho vijño dhanurmīnā'dhipo jayaḥ |

śubha-graho yajña-kartā kṛtī citraśikhaṇḍijaḥ || 4 ||

|| phalaśrutiḥ ||

nāmānyetāni jīvasya pādyāni saptaviṁśatiḥ |

buddhi-vṛddhi-karāṇyāhuḥ prasādena bṛhaspateḥ || 5 ||

brāhmaṇo-vedavijñaḥ-syād anyeṣāṁ svocitaṁ phalam |

yātrāyāṁ maṅgalaścāpi stavarājo bṛhaspateḥ || 6 ||

|| 27 śrīguruḥ nāmāvaliḥ ||

[Add namah after each name where missing]

|| iti śrībṛhaddharma purāṇe śrīvyāsa-kṛta śrīguroḥ stavarāja sampūrṇam ||

Bermuda Triangle Mystery Revealed in Rig Veda & Atharva Veda

Posted by The Editor | Jan 20, 2016 | IndiaDivine.Org

Bermuda Triangle or the Devil’s Triangle, is a region in the western part of the North Atlantic Ocean, where a number of aircraft and ships are said to have disappeared under mysterious circumstances.

Even though the US Navy says that Bermuda Triangle does not exist, many have attributed various disappearances to the paranormal or activity by extraterrestrial beings. But till date, nobody could find out actual reason behind this mystery.

Many believe that there is a hidden pyramid inside the Atlantic Ocean, which pulls everything towards it like a magnet. It was named as “danger region” for about 500 years after disappearance of ships & planes. In 1492 during journey to America, Columbus saw some glitterness in this region and his magnetic compass got disturbed.

Bermuda Triangle Mystery Revealed in Rig Veda

Although there is a similar demon described in first ever poem, Ramayana, it does not match with the geographical location.Simhika, the gigantic demon had the power to attract anything’s shadow flying over ocean and pull it into the waters.

However, that was on the way to Lanka. Brahmanda Purana (composed more than 5000 years ago) and Rig Veda (written more than 23000 years ago) clearly state that the planet Mars was born out of Earth. That is why he is called as Bhauma (‘son of Bhumi’) or Kuja (Ku = Earth + Ja = Born out of) in Sanskrit.

Asya Vamasya Sukta in Rig Veda states :”When Earth gave birth to Mars, and Mars seperated from his mother, her thigh got injured and she became imbalanced (Earth rotated in its axis) and to stop it Godly doctors, Aswini Kumars poured iron into the triangular shaped injury and Earth got fixed in her current position.

In 1909, a fishing boat got disappeared. On 5th Dec 1945, a flight started from Florida (USA), when went about 120 miles east, its contact was broken from base station and plane disappeared.

In 1948, a ship carrying 27 travelers disappeared in Bermuda region. In 1951 another ship carrying 53 travelers disappeared in this region. Due to safety and precautionary reasons, all routes for ships & planes have been made out of this triangle.

Bermuda Triangle Mystery Revealed in Atharva Veda

Atharva Veda has description of several gems. One of them is Darbha gem, which is described in Sukta 28, 29 & 30, by Darbha gem. So, electro-magnetic waves going from wireless system or coming to system are disturbed and wireless system fails.

Darbha gem is like a very short form of neutron star, which has high density. Similarly, Darbha gem also has high density so there is high gravitation due to Darbha gem. There is emission of high energetic electro-magnetic waves due to Darbha gem, probably due to nuclear reactions happening in it. Intensities of electric & magnetic field associated with electro-magnetic waves are very high.

This gem could be a powerful and dangerous weapon. Khanda 19 of Atharva Veda, Mantra 4 of Sukta 28, states: “As the Sun brings down clouds on earth in the same way oh! Darbha gem you fall down the rising enemies.” It means that there is gravitational force due to Darbha gem inside water. Mantra 5 of Sukta 29, says, “As the curd is stirred in the same way oh! Darbha gem you stir enemies.” It means to stir the bodies is a property of Darbha gem. In Mantra 7 of Sukta 29, says, “to burn the bodies”;

It means there is emission of high energetic rays like laser rays by Darbha gem, which destroy bodies. So properties of Darbha gem are:

1) High gravitational field.
2) Stir bodies coming near to it.
3) Emission of high energetic rays.

All these properties of Darbha gem, explain the phenomena of Bermuda Triangle. Mars (Mangala / Kuja) has Triangle shaped Yantra in Vedic Astrology. In Vedic Astrology, Mars (Mangala or Kuja) is red in color (similar to what modern scientists discovered), had water bodies on it (dried river beds found by NASA).

Coral, the gemstone related to Mars is also red in color and found only under sea waters.

What is even more astonishing is that, Yantra in Mars is triangle (tilted) shaped. In that way, Mars is brother of all humans born on planet Earth. Mars also controls all land related issues in human lives like Real Estate Business, Agriculture, Sibling etc. in astrology.

Modern scientists assume presence of methane hydrates, which indicates enormous eruptions of methane bubbles that would swamp a ship and projected high into the air- take out flying airplanes, as well. Any ship caught within the methane mega-bubble immediately loses all buoyancy and sink to the bottom of the ocean. If the bubbles are big enough and possess a high enough density they can also knock aircraft out of the sky with little or no warning.

Aircraft falling victim to these methane bubbles will lose their engines-perhaps igniting the methane surrounding them-and immediately lose their lift as well, ending their flights by diving into the ocean and swiftly plummeting.

FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN NAVAGRAHA SHANTIS!

As I have informed before, The Council of Hindu Temples of America brings out every Year North American Panchagam prepared and edited by R. Kumar, an expert in the field of astrology, Vontikoppal Panchnga Karta Mysore, who also prepares Panchagam in Kannada published by Panchanga Mandiram, V.V.Puram Mysore which he own, every year. Both these Panchangams includesd the popular Navagraha stotra “Japaakusuma” eulogizing the nine Grahas--Surya, Chandra, Kuja, Budha, Guru, Sukra, Sani, Rahu and Ketu. He should be himself convinced How wrong he is in eulogizing Rahu, Ketu and Moon as grahas with others, as well as how wrong he is as to their role on human life. I am sure he will also soon realize that Sun is a Star and the ruler of all planets found in Navagraha stotras and change his views on phalasrutis, Grahana (eclipse) information, Urttarayana Punyakala celebrated after 22 days etc., in due course. This year Vontikoppal Panchangam has come out with a new sloka on Navagrahas.

NAVAGRAHA PEEDAAPARIHAARA STOTRA

This prayer gives the prayer to be chanted to get rid of troubles caused by each planet. Though the entire prayer can be chanted, it is necessary only to chant the corresponding stanza for the concerned planet which is causing problems.

 Grahaanaam Aadityo lokarakshankaarakah |Vishamsthaan sambhootaam peedaam haratu may Ravih ||

Please steal away my troubles, Oh Sun,
Who is the first among all planets,
Who is the cause for protecting the world,
And who causes troubles by his position.

Rohinee sudhaamoortih sudhaagaatrah sudhaasanah |Vishmasthaan sambhootaam peedaam haratu may Vidhuh||

Please steal away my troubles, Oh Moon,
Who is the lord of the star Rohini,
Who is made of nectar,
Who sheds nectar, who sits on nectar
And who causes troubles by his position.

Bhoomiputro mahaatejaa jagataam bhayakritsadaa |Vrishtikridvrishti hartaacha peedaam haratu may Kujah ||

Please steal away all my troubles, Oh Mars,
Who creates always fear in this world,
Who is the son of earth and greatly shining,
Who causes rain and who stops rain.

Utpaataroopee jagataam chandraputro mahaadytih | sooryapriyakaro vidwaan peedam haratu may Budhah ||

Please steal away all my troubles, Oh Mercury,
Who is of the form of earthly production,
Who s the son of moon and greatly wise,
And who is wise and favorite of the Sun.

Devamantree visaalaakshah sadaa lokahite ratah / Aneka sishya sampoornah peedaam haratu may Guruh ||

 Please steal away all my troubles, Oh Jupiter

Who has broad eyes and a minister of devas,

Who is always interested in welfare of the world,

And who has several disciples with him.

Daityamantree gurusteshaam pranavasca mahaamatih |Prabhustaaraagrahanaamcha peedam hartu may Bhriguh ||

Please steal away all my troubles, oh Venus,

Who is the minister and teacher of Rakshasas,

Who is extremely intelligent among the living,

And who is the lord among stars and planets.

Sooryputro deerghdeho visaalaakshah sivapriyah | Mandachaarah prasannaatmaa peedam haratu may Sanih |

Please steal away all my troubles, Oh Saturn,
Who has a long body and is the son of Sun,
Who has broad eyes and likes Shiva,
Who moves slowly and is always cheerful.

Mahaasiraa mahaavaktro deerghadamshtro mahaabal | Atanuschordhvakesaascha peedaam haratu may Sikhee ||

Please steal away all my troubles, Oh Rahu,
Who has a big head and a big throat,
Who has long teeth and is very strong,
And who wanders with his long hair.

Aneka roopa varnaischa sataso atha sahasrasah | Utpaataroopo jagataam peedaam haratu may tamah ||

Please steal away all my troubles, Oh Kethu,
Who has several forms and several colors,
Who purifies hundred and thousand times,
And who is the form of calamity.

Notes

 Sun standing in the 1,2,4.6,7,8,9 houses from The moon’ house causes problems.

  Moon standing in the 2,4,5,8.9,12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

  Mars standing in the 1,2,4,7,8.9,12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

  Mercury standing in the 1.3.5., 7.9.12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

  Jupiter standing in the 1,3,4.6,8,10,12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

  Venus standing in the 6,7,10 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

  Saturn standing in the 1,2,4,5,7,8,9,10,11,12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

  Rahu standing in the 1,2,4,5,7,8,9,10,11,12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

 Kethu standing in the 1,2,4,7,8.9,12 houses from the moon’s house causes problems

|| Iti Navagrah peedaaparihaara stotram sampoornam ||

[I only pray to Soorya the Vyahriti of Brahman just as Rama did in chanting Aditya Hrudayam for any planetary disturbance in my life. But for those who are guided by priests and astrologers this sloka will be interesting. Sometimes such slokas do bring in relief based on faith which again has to be done by the merciful Supreme. I do not wish to stand between you and your faith. Supreme helps the ignorant sometimes but not always.]

THE POWER OF 27 NAKSHATRAS IN VEDIC ASTROLOGY

David Frawley

Each Nakshatra has its particular power or Shakti. These are also the powers of the Devatas or the deities ruling the Nakshatras. Each of these Shaktis has its effect above and its effect below, and the final result of these three factors. The imagery is of common factors of plants, healing, worship, marriage and death.

This is a teaching that derives from an ancient Vedic text called Taittiriya Brahmana I.5.1 and from the commentary of Bhattabhaskara Mishra. The first paragraph relates to the textual reference. The second paragraph consists of David Frawley’s comments based upon it.

Ashwini

Ashwini is govern by the Ashwins, the twin horsemen. It has the power to quickly reach things (shidhra vyapani shakti). Its basis above are the creatures to be healed. Its basis below is the healing therapies. From these three the entire world becomes free of disease.

Ashwini Nakshatra brings about quick aid and energization. The healing power of Ashwini is evident from these comments, particularly their ability to bring about fast, radical or miraculous cures as well as rejuvenation. The Ashwins are forces of Prana or the life-force, which is quick in its action to stimulate, help, and initiate a new level of activity.

Bharani

Bharani is ruled by Yama, the God of Death. It has the power to take things away (apabharani shakti). Its basis above is the removal of life from the body. Its basis below is the carrying of the soul to the realm of the ancestors. By the combination of these three factors creatures move on to the next world.

Bharani Nakshatra takes away that which has reached its term of life to a new condition. It shows the movement of the soul away from the body. Yama guides the soul to the astral plane, where it can experience the result of its karma from the present life and prepare for the life to come. Yama is a figure of discipline and sacrifice.

Krittika

Krittika is ruled by Agni, the God of Fire. It has the power to burn (dahana shakti). Its basis above is heat and below is light. The result of these three is burning or purification.

Krittika Nakshatra burns up negativity, purifies what is mixed, and cooks or prepares that which is not yet ripe. Agni is mainly the God of the sacred fire, so purification is perhaps the dominant action, not destruction, though purification does involve the destruction of impurity. Agni is also the fire that cooks our food and so there is a nourishing side to its effects as well. This fire has a childlike nature.

Rohini

Rohini is ruled by Prajapati, the Creator. Its power is growth (rohana shakti). Its basis above is the plants and below is the waters. The result of these three is creation.

Rohini Nakshatra allows for growth and creation on all levels, bestowing great fertility. However it also evokes some degree of jealousy because others may resent that a person gains such abundance. More over it can increase desire. But these are only side effects to its great prosperity. Prajapati is the creator who can bestow everything so we should be careful what we want.

Mrigashirsha

Mrigashirsha is ruled by Soma, the God of the Moon or the immortal nectar. Its power is giving fulfillment (prinana shakti). Its basis above is extension. Its basis below weaving (producing clothing). These three together make the world enjoyable.

Mrigashirsha Nakshatra fills or covers with joy. It is like a beautiful cloth to make our life more attractive. Soma is a great enjoyment that is won, conquered, bought or stolen, so its procurement does not always come easily. However what does not require effort to gain is not always enjoyed either.

Ardra

Ardra is ruled by Rudra, the fierce form of Lord Shiva who represents thunder. Its power is effort (yatna shakti), particularly for making gains in life. Its basis above is hunting or searching. Its basis below is reaching the goal. These three bring about achievement.

Ardra Nakshatra arouses us to greater effort in life. This struggle can bring great rewards but not without persistence and a degree of luck. Rudra is the hunter and the wielder of the bow. The idea here also suggests placing of the arrow and hitting the target. For this one must have a good aim, as well as strength to shoot. Rudra is also the lord of wild animals.

Punarvasu

Punarvasu is ruled by Aditi, the Great Mother Goddess. Its power is the ability to gain wealth or substance (vasutva prapana shakti). Its basis above is the wind or air. Its basis below is wetness or rain. These three bring about the revitalization of the plants.

Punarvasu Nakshatra brings about the return of energy and vitality, like the return of the monsoon rains after the dry season. It causes our creative growths and inspirations to be renewed. Aditi is the Earth Goddess who grants all abundance and gives birth to all the Gods.

Pushya

Pushya is ruled by Brihaspati, the God of Divine wisdom. Its power is the ability to create spiritual energy (brahmavarchasa shakti). Its basis above is sacrificial worship. Its basis below is the worshipper. These three result in the creation of spiritual energy.

Pushya Nakshatra increases our good karma and good efforts. The value of this Nakshatra for religious and spiritual practices is emphasized. Brihaspati is the lord of speech, particularly prayer, and of all forms of worship, including meditation, so these indications are all in harmony with his functions.

Aslesha

Aslesha is ruled by the serpent God. It has the power to inflict with poison (visasleshana shakti). Its basis above is the approach of the serpent. Its basis below is trembling and agitation. These three together bring about destruction of the victim.

Aslesha Nakshatra paralyzes the enemy. This can be helpful if we have enemies but it can serve to give a person an inimical temperament as well. It all depends upon how the energy of this Nakshatra is used. Serpents also give wisdom, but a practical wisdom through which one can overcome enemies and obstacles.

Magha

Magha is ruled by the Ancestors. It gives the power of to leave the body (tyage kshepani shakti). Its basis above is mourning. Its basis below is leaving the body. These three together bring about death.

Magha Nakshatra causes a change of state or condition, a kind of death. Usually it shows that we are coming to the end of a cycle. Its condition is prior to that of Bharani which indicates the movement of the soul away from the body. Of course there are higher meanings of this Nakshatra relative to Ancestors including ancestral pride and power.

Purva Phalguni

Purva Phalguni in the Vedic order is ruled by Aryaman, the God of contracts and unions. It gives the power of procreation (prajanana shakti). Its basis above is the wife or female partner. Its basis below is the male or masculine partner. These three together bring about the creation of the fetus.

Purva Phalguni brings about union and procreation on all levels. Yet this follows some official agreement or marriage and is part of the creation of a new family or social order. Aryaman governs such productive alliances and also arranges the marriage festival.

Uttara Phalguni

Uttara Phalguni in the Vedic order is ruled by Bhaga, the God of happiness. Its power the giving of accumulation or prosperity (chayani shakti) through marriage or union. Its basis above is the wealth gained from ones own family. Its basis below is the wealth gained from ones partner and her family. These three together bring about the accumulation of wealth.

Uttara Phalguni brings the prosperity that results through union. It indicates both the need for union and for organizing the resources gained through it. Bhaga is also a God of wealth who brings about the right apportionment of resources. While the previous Nakshatra shows marriage this shows the setting up of the household for the newly married couple.

Hasta

Hasta is ruled by Savitar, the creative form of the Sun God. Its power is the ability to gain what we are seeking and place it in our own hands (hasta sthapaniya agama shakti). Its basis above is the seeking of gain. Its basis below is the process of gaining. These three together place what one wishes to gain in ones own hand.

Hasta gives the ability to achieve our goals in a complete and immediate manner. Such goals are usually creative in nature. Savitar is the creative will that builds up the universe with all of its beauty. His productions are most wonderful.

Chitra

Chitra is ruled by Twashtar, the Cosmic craftsman. Its power is ability to accumulate merit in life (punya cayani shakti). Its basis above is the law. Its basis below is the truth. Through these three the worker is able to gain honor in his work.

Chitra allows us to gain the fruit of our good karma that comes through righteousness. It has a highly spiritual energy and effect. Twashtar creates enduring forms, like a blacksmith, and also produces variety and abundance.

Swati

Swati is ruled by Vayu, the God of the Wind. It gives the power to scatter like the wind (pradhvamsa shakti). Its basis above is moving in various directions. Its basis below is change of form. The result of these three is transformation.

Swati Nakshatra causes things to move and scatter. This can be destructive unless we learn how to use it to remove negativity. All these indications are basically those of the Wind, which has both healing and destructive powers.

Vishakha

Vishakha is ruled by Indra and Agni, who represent the powers of heat and lightning in the Atmosphere. It gives the power to achieve many and various fruits in life (vyapana shakti). Its basis above is plowing or cultivation. Its basis below is the harvest. These three gives us the fruit of the harvest.

Vishakha provides the effort to achieve our goals abundantly through time, like a farmer plowing his field. It does not give immediate results but perhaps greater long term gains. Indra and Agni here are agriculture Gods showing the ripening effect of heat, rain and seasonal changes.

Anuradha

Anuradha is ruled by Mitra, the Divine Friend. It gives the power of worship (aradhana shakti). Its basis above is ascension. Its basis below is dissension. From these three honor and abundance is gained.

Anuradha Nakshatra gives balance in relationship, both honoring others and seeking ourselves to be honorable, through which we acquire fame and recognition. Mitra indicates compassion, devotion and right relationship.

Jyeshta

Jyeshta is ruled by Indra, the ruler of the Gods. It has the power to rise or conquer, and gain courage in battle (arohana shakti). Its basis above is attack and its basis below is defense. The result of these three is that one becomes a hero.

Jyeshta allows us to reach the summit of our personal powers but it requires great courage and effort. It shows karmic battles that require our complete energization in order to overcome. Indra is the king of the Gods who must eventually alone and single handed defeat the dragon, the most fearful of serpents. Though his position looks hopeless, he wins by courage and cunning, not by strength of arms.

Mula

Mula is ruled by Nirriti, the Goddess of destruction. It has the power to ruin or destroy. Its basis above is breaking things apart (barhana shakti). Its basis below is crushing things. Through these three one gains the power to destroy destruction.

In bringing afflictions Mula Nakshatra allows us to destroy their root, as long as they don’t overcome us. It shows the necessary destruction to proceed a new creation. Nirriti is Alakshmi or the denial of Lakshmi (abundance and prosperity). She is Kali or the negative effect of time that we must protect ourselves from or use to our advantage.

Purvashadha

Purvashadha is ruled by the Waters (Apas). Its power is that of invigoration (varchograhana shakti). Its basis above is strength. Its basis below is connection. Through these three one gains lustre.

Purvashadha brings about purification and regeneration, like the energy gained through taking a bath in water. It provides us additional energy for our efforts. These effects flow from the Waters, which in this instance are heavenly in nature and can provide inner purification.

Uttarashadha

Uttarashadha is ruled by the Universal Gods (Vishwe Deva). Its power is grant an unchallengeable victory (apradhrisya shakti). Its basis above is the strength to win. Its basis below is the goal that one can win. From these three one becomes the unchallenged winner.

Uttarashadha brings us to the summit of our power, support and recognition, not so much through our personal efforts (which is more the case in Jyeshta) but with the appropriate alliances and support of all the Gods. Our victory depends upon a righteous cause that is beneficial to all, which we are helping in. Here we fight more as the leader of an army.

Shravana

Shravana is ruled by Vishnu, the pervador. Its power is that of connection (samhanana shakti). Its basis above is seeking. Its basis below are the paths. The result of these three is the connection of all things together.

Shravana enables us to link people together by connecting them to their appropriate paths in life. This requires receptivity and listening, and results in understanding and aspiration. Vishnu with his three strides links together the three worlds of Earth, Atmosphere and Heaven, connecting all creatures with the Gods.

Dhanishta

Dhanishta is ruled by the Vasus, the Gods of abundance. Its power is to give abundance and fame (khyapayitri shakti). Its basis above is birth. Its basis below is prosperity. These three give the power to bring people together.

Dhanishta allows us to bring the resources of people together. In this way it builds upon the connections of Shravana and makes them more practical. The Vasus are the deities of the Earth that give abundance on the earthly plane. They are manifestations of Agni or the sacred fire and show the gifts that it can dispense.

Shatabhishak

Shatabhishak is ruled by Varuna, the God of the cosmic waters. It has the power of healing (bheshaja shakti). Its basis above is extension or pervasion over all. Its basis below is the support of all. These three make the world free of calamity.

Shatabhishak counters difficult karmas through Divine grace and repentance. These include not only diseases but difficulties of all kind, including sin. While Ashwini gives more immediate cures, Shatabhishak brings about a healing crisis leading to revitalization. Varuna is a God of sin, debts, injury and disease, who cannot only bring these calamities upon us but can remove them from us, if we propitiate him sincerely.

Purva Bhadra

Purva Bhadra is ruled by Aja Ekapad, the one-footed serpent. It gives the fire to raise a spiritual person up in life (yajamana udyamana shakti). What is good for all people is its basis above. What is good for the Gods is its basis below. These three cause the entire world to be supported.

Purva Bhadra grants a universal view through internal purification. This raises up our spiritual aspiration in life and takes us out of the domain of selfish behavior. Aja Ekapad is the cosmic or celestial form of Agni or the sacred fire. It raises up our spiritual aspiration in life.

Uttara Bhadra

Uttara Bhadra is ruled by Ahir Budhnya, the serpent of the depths of the Atmosphere. Its power is the bringing of the rain (varshodyamana shakti). Its basis above is the raining clouds. Its basis below growing of the plants. From these three factors the three worlds gain their stability.

Uttara Bhadra grants growth and prosperity in a broad way, benefiting the entire world. This makes it very auspicious. Ahir Budhnya is the benefic serpent who brings the rain, connecting us with the creative powers at the foundations of the world.

Revati

Revati is governed by Pushan, the nourishing form of the Sun God. It has the power of nourishment symbolized by milk (kshiradyapani shakti). Its basis above is the cows. Its basis below are the calves. These three bring about the nourishment of the entire world.

Revati creates abundance through providing proper nourishment. It helps all people in their efforts. Pushan is the lord of cattle and the lord of the paths. He leads, protects and gathers the herd in their movement, particularly to new pastures. In this way he also protects the soul in its journey to the next world.

Hindu Reflections

Thursday, December 15, 2011