Vedic Astrology Glossary

अष्टकवर्ग

A system of planetary strengths using an 8-fold division. Each planet contributes points (bindus) to determine favorable positions in a chart.

आत्मकारक

The planet with the highest degree in a chart, representing the soul's desire and life purpose. Key in Jaimini astrology.

अयनांश

The angular difference between the tropical and sidereal zodiacs, approximately 24 degrees. Lahiri ayanamsa is most commonly used.

भाव

The twelve houses of a horoscope, each governing specific life areas. Derived from the Ascendant (Lagna).

भुक्ति

A sub-period within a major Dasha period. Also called Antardasha. Used for precise timing of events.

चंद्र

The Moon, one of the most important planets in Vedic astrology. Governs mind, emotions, and mother.

अस्त

When a planet is too close to the Sun (within specific degrees), its significations become weakened or hidden.

दशा

Planetary period system unique to Vedic astrology. The most common is Vimshottari Dasha (120-year cycle).

नीच

When a planet is in its weakest sign, opposite to its exaltation sign. The planet's positive qualities are diminished.

वर्ग

Charts derived by dividing signs into smaller portions. D-9 (Navamsa) is for marriage, D-10 (Dasamsa) for career.

द्रेष्काण

The D-3 divisional chart, dividing each sign into three parts. Used for siblings and courage.

उच्च

When a planet is in its strongest sign, expressing its highest qualities. Each planet has one exaltation sign.

ग्रह

Literally "that which seizes." The nine planets including Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu.

गण्डान्त

Critical junction points between water and fire signs (Pisces-Aries, Cancer-Leo, Scorpio-Sagittarius). Considered spiritually significant.

ज्योतिष

The Sanskrit term for Vedic astrology, meaning "science of light." One of the six Vedangas (limbs of the Vedas).

केंद्र

The angular houses: 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th. Planets here gain strength and visibility in life.

केतु

The south lunar node, representing spirituality, past life karma, and liberation. Headless body of the serpent.

लग्न

The Ascendant or rising sign at the exact moment of birth. The starting point for all house calculations.

महादशा

The major planetary period in the Vimshottari Dasha system, lasting from 6 to 20 years depending on the planet.

मूलत्रिकोण

A special section within a planet's own sign where it functions optimally. Between own sign and exaltation.

नक्षत्र

The 27 lunar mansions, each spanning 13°20' of the zodiac. They reveal deeper personality traits and karma.

नवांश

The D-9 divisional chart, crucial for marriage analysis and dharma. Divides each sign into nine parts.

नीच भंग

Cancellation of debilitation. When specific conditions exist, a debilitated planet's weakness is neutralized.

पद

Each Nakshatra is divided into four padas (quarters) of 3°20' each. Important for precise chart analysis.

पुष्कर

Auspicious degrees within signs where planets gain special strength and bestow positive results.

राहु

The north lunar node, representing worldly desires, obsessions, and areas of karmic growth. Head of the serpent.

राज योग

Planetary combinations that bestow power, success, and authority. Formed by lords of Kendra and Trikona houses.

राशि

The twelve zodiac signs in Vedic astrology, starting from Aries (Mesha) to Pisces (Meena).

वक्री

When a planet appears to move backward from Earth's perspective. Retrograde planets gain strength in Vedic astrology.

षड्बल

Six-fold strength calculation for planets, measuring positional, directional, temporal, and other strengths.

शनि

Saturn, the planet of karma, discipline, delays, and life lessons. Slowest moving visible planet.

त्रिकोण

The trinal houses: 1st, 5th, and 9th. Most auspicious houses representing dharma, creativity, and fortune.

उपचय

Houses 3, 6, 10, and 11 where malefic planets give good results. These houses improve over time.

वर्ग

Divisional charts that provide detailed analysis of specific life areas. 16 main Vargas are used.

विंशोत्तरी दशा

The 120-year planetary period system based on Moon's Nakshatra at birth. Most widely used Dasha system.

योग

Specific planetary combinations that produce particular results. Hundreds of yogas exist in classical texts.

योगकारक

A single planet ruling both a Kendra and Trikona house, becoming highly beneficial for the chart.