Basics of Jyotish Shastra Vedic Astrology

Purpose of studying Shastras

The primary aim of studying Shastras in Indian culture is to attain Moksha, or Nirvana, which means liberation. The journey to Moksha is filled with materialistic temptations that can divert one from this ultimate goal. Every Sadhak (disciple) must recognize that the path to salvation is filled with Maya, or materialistic distractions.

What is Jyotish Shastra

Jyotish Shastra (Vedic astrology), also known as Vedanga, is part of the Vedas. It involves the study of Jyoti, or the inner light. In essence, the study of Jyotish Shastra is the exploration of this inner light. This key knowledge helps one understand the purpose of human life and guides them on how to approach life in the most appropriate manner on the sacred path to Moksha, or liberation.

Jyotish Shastra encompasses various branches that assist people in their daily lives. Examples include Vastu Shastra, Hasta Resha Samudrik Shastra, Face Reading, Sankhya Shastra, Body Language Reading, and Signature Analysis etc.

Note: Rishis were revealed the knowledge, hence, they are known as "Drashtas" which means one who saw the knowledge and not "Kartas" for the obvious reason that they didn't create this knowledge. The knowledge was always present.

Who authored Jyotish Shastra

The Jyotish Shastra, authored by Rishis (Sages), is a product of their immense penance to attain ultimate knowledge. This knowledge wasn't invented by them but rather always existed. Through their penance, the divine revealed Jyotish Shastra to the Rishis. They documented this sacred knowledge and passed it down through generations. The primary purpose of this wisdom is to make humans aware of the true objective of life—reaching Moksha.

Maharshi Parashar is known as the father of Vedic Astrology or Jyotish Shastra. His work "Brihad Parashara Hora Shastra" is key work for anyone who intends to learn Indian Vedic Astrology.