Explore astrology terms and concepts.
In Vedic astrology, an Antardasha is a sub-period within a Mahadasha, representing a smaller cycle of planetary influence within a larger one. The effects of an Antardasha are influenced by the planet and its placement in the birth chart. The Antardasha modifies the effects of the Mahadasha
Planetary influence on a specific house or planet. Argala can be of two types: Subhargala (beneficial intervention) or Papargala (malefic intervention), based on the nature of the planet causing the Argala.
Also known as the Lagna, the ascendant is the zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the time of birth. The Ascendant represents the physical body, appearance, intelligence, strength, and the self. The position of the ascendant is vital for chart analysis.
It is a system in Vedic astrology using the positions of the Lagna and the seven Grahas (Sun to Saturn) to assess the strength of each Rasi and their effect on the natal chart. It involves creating eight charts and then summing them up into the Sarvastakavarga. Each Graha has a Bhinna Ashtakavarga. The points (dots) in an Ashtakavarga are known as Rekhas.
The planet with the highest degree in the birth chart, signifying the soul's desires and purpose. Its placement affects spiritual growth and life direction. The 12th house from the Atmakaraka reveals the Ista Devata.
The state of a planet (infancy, youth, old age) influencing its strength and effects in the chart
Exact difference in degrees between the moving vernal equinox and the exact sidereal zero Aries point.
A chart showing house cusps and degrees, illustrating how planetary effects shift when houses are unevenly spaced.
A timing mechanism showing planetary influences over specific life periods. Common systems include Vimshottari, Narayana, and Kalachakra Dasha.
Inauspicious planetary combinations bringing challenges, influenced by the planets involved and their placements.
Analysis of planetary movements to predict current and future events.
The Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. Their placement and aspects influence various life aspects.
A traditional system for assessing marriage compatibility based on planetary positions.
Significators of life aspects. Chara Karakas are temporary, while Naisargika Karakas are permanent (e.g., Jupiter signifies wisdom, Saturn work).
The 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th houses, representing self, home, relationships, and career. Planets in Kendras are typically strong.
A map of planetary positions at birth, divided into twelve houses and signs, used to analyze personality and life events.
Major planetary periods with significant influence, determined by a planet’s placement, aspects, and nature.
A planet's most comfortable sign, distinct from exaltation, providing strength and favorable outcomes.
Calculating auspicious times for events based on planetary positions and Panchang elements.
The 27 lunar constellations influencing personality and destiny. Nakshatras are also integral to Dasha systems.
A key divisional chart analyzing marital and spiritual potential. It highlights a planet’s deeper strengths and manifestations.
The traditional Hindu calendar detailing tithi (lunar day), nakshatra, yoga, and karana for astrological reference.
A challenging 7.5-year period when Saturn transits the 12th, 1st, and 2nd houses from the natal Moon.
A solar year measured in days, distinct from lunar and sidereal years.
A six-fold system measuring a planet's strength, including positional, directional, and temporal factors.
Sixteen divisional charts for detailed life analysis.
A calculation for assessing planetary strengths using Rasi and Graha Pinda.
The 1st, 5th, and 9th houses, associated with dharma, luck, and spirituality. Lords of Trikonas are pivotal for wealth and sustenance.
A special Arudha Pada analyzing marriage and spouse, calculated from the 12th house and its lord.
Vakri refers to a planet's retrograde motion in Vedic astrology, when a planet appears to move backwards
Charts dividing zodiac signs into fractions to analyze specific life areas. Examples include Navamsa (D-9) for fortune and marriage, Dasamsa (D-10) for career, and Shashtiamsa (D-60) for general indications.
A widely used Nakshatra-based system for timing life events