Shodasavarga

Shodashvarga, also known as the Sixteen Divisional Charts, provides a detailed analysis of an individual's birth chart. The term "Shodashvarga" translates to "sixteen divisions," and it refers to the division of each zodiac sign into multiple parts, allowing astrologers to gain deeper insights into various aspects of life, including personality traits, relationships, career, and spiritual inclinations. Each of the sixteen divisions, or Vargas, represents specific areas of influence and helps in assessing the strength and effectiveness of planets in a natal chart.

The primary divisional charts are:

Rasi (D-1): General well-being

Hora (D-2): Wealth

Drekkana (D-3): Happiness from siblings, initiative

Chaturthamsha (D-4): Fortune, assets

Saptamsha (D-7)

Navamsha (D-9): Marriage, general fortune

Dashamsha (D-10): Career, professional life

Dwadasamsha (D-12)

Shodashamsha (D-16): Luxuries and comforts

Vimshamsha (D-20): Spirituality, religious inclinations

Chaturvimshamsha (D-24): Learning and knowledge

Bhamsha (D-27): Strengths and weaknesses

Trimshamsha (D-30): Evils and weaknesses

Kavedamsha (D-40): Auspicious results

Akshavedamsha (D-45): General Wellbeing

Shashtiamsha (D-60): Inner strength, general effects

Significance of Shodashvarga

The Shodashvarga charts provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating an individual's potential and challenges. Each division focuses on different facets of life:

• Ascendant (Lagna): Represents the physical body and overall vitality.

• Hora: Indicates financial status and wealth accumulation.

• Drekkana: Relates to siblings and their influence.

• Navamsa: A critical chart for understanding marital relationships and spiritual inclinations.

• Dasamsa: Focuses on career and professional achievements.

By analyzing these divisions, astrologers can identify strengths and weaknesses in various areas, allowing for more accurate predictions and personalized guidance.

How Shodashvarga Works

Astrologers utilize the Shodashvarga charts to assess the placement of planets within these divisions. A planet's effectiveness is often determined by its position in these Vargas—higher placements in favorable Vargas typically indicate positive outcomes, while lower placements may suggest challenges. For instance, if a benefic planet is well-placed in multiple Vargas, it is likely to yield favorable results throughout the individual's life.Additionally, the analysis of Shodashvarga is often combined with other astrological techniques such asDasha(planetary periods) and transits to provide a holistic view of an individual’s life trajectory.