One can safely say that Hindu astrology took its birth through the teachings of Parasara, the sage of sages. The sage laid down the various principles in his Hora Sastra through his divine knowledge while instructing his disciple, the illustrious Maitreiya. All later authors like Varaha Mihira, Prithuyasas, Kalyana Varma etc. thoroughly digested the sages principles before they compiled their works.
The present translation in English is the first ever attempt in the press. To speak briefly of the work, it deals with all the required basic aphorisms of predictive astrology and advanced principles as well.
Some highlights of the work are: Sixteen Vargas of Rasis, their use, Aspects of Rasis, Infant evils, Results of 12 bhavas, Longevity, Results of Bhava Lord’s positions- in other Bhavas, Effects of Upagrahas, Padas, Karakamsa, Rajayogas, Combinations causing poverty, Effects of various Planetary Avasthas, Chara Dasa, Sookshma Dasa, detailed effects of Nakshatra Dasa, Kala Chakra Dasa etc., Ashtaka Varga Scheme, Female Horoscopy, Lost Horoscopy, Planetary Rays and various afflictions like Solar Ingression, Eclipses, Moola Nakshatra etc.
The present English translation is fully supported by enlightening explanations and quotations from various rare authoritative classic texts so that even an average student can usefully and clearly understand the principles to be applied to a practical horoscope.
Excellent Classics available first time in lucid English Uttara Kalamrita --Kali Dasa Original Text with Translation, explanatory notes and Example horoscopes.
A rare work attributed to Kalidasa. The text is based on Parasara and Jaimini and it is substantiated by the author’s won experience.
“Biorhythms of Natal Moon” otherwise called The Pancha Pakshi Sastra is a golden key in the hand of man which can be used with advantage in any endeavour and in any walk of life unlike the prevalent Biorhythm theories which reckon the cycles of time in terms of days only, too common for all humans.
This system was propounded by ancient Tamil Sidha Saints and is now presented in English for the first time for universal benefit, by the esteemed author.
This system is unfailing as it is based on natural laws of five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas) combined with ASTRO STELLAR force of each individual.
This can be successfully applied in all matters of life in the fields of Horary, Electional, Medical Astrology and especially on Natal Astrology.
Presented herewith with pleasure is the first-ever English translation of the full text of the available version of Maharshi Parasara’s Brihat Parasara Hora Sastra. But for the blessings of Lord Ganesa this would have been as uphill task for me.
Sri Maha Vishnu is the god f gods. So is ParasaraHora-the book of books in the field of astrology.
The work is in the form of a carritch between sage Parasara and his disciple Maitreya who later himself became a worthy sage. Parasara belonging to Vasistha’s lineage was Veda Vyasa’s father. As could be seen in the course of progressing thorough the text, sage Saunaka was the preceptor of Parasara in the matter of astrology, Saunaka was one of the earliest sages and was Garga’s disciple.
The date of Parasara could be attributed to be roughly the era of Dharma Raja of Maha Bharata. This can be understood when the sage states “in the present Yuga, Dharma Raja is born with the combination of…” Further, the reader could find statements relating to the horoscopic yogas of Maha Vishnu, Prajapati, Swayambhu Manu etc, which statement could possibly be made by no ordinary mortal.
Varaha Mihira in Brihat Samhita, Kalyana Varma in Saravali and many such other illustrious authors gave references of Parasara’s astrological statements.
Parasara Hora finds its translation in Bengali, Malayalam etc. which translations however have not been seen by me. I have with me the following versions.
1. Sri Venkateswata Press, Bombay, partly rendered in Hindi. For a majority of slokas, one can find Sanskrit commentary only.
2. Hindi translation by Sitaram Jha. (Master Khelari Lal, Varanasi edition).
3. Hindi translation by Devachandra Jha (Chaukambha edition).
4. Hindi translation by Ganesa Datta Pathak (Thakur Prasad edition).
After scrutinizing critically the four manuscripts, I have for reasona of more credibility chosen the Sanskrit version rendered by Sitararm Jha. The Chaukambha version is almost the same as that of Khelari Lal’s.
Other versions that I have come across are:
1. Tamil translation by C.G. Rajan-for only 36 chapters, without Sanskrit verses.
2. English translation by N.N.K. Rao for only 25 chapters, without Sanskrit slokas.
Thus, I have felt a need to make the original version available in English to the fullest possible extent. Our version has 97 chapters containing English translation and exhaustive annotations and examples.
To handle the publication easily, we have divided the work in two volume. The present Volume-first volume-contains 45 chapters while the remaining 52 chapters have been put in the second volume.
Chapter 1 and chapter 2 give some preliminary extra-astrological information. From chapter 3, the astrological information beings. In this chapter, planetary descriptions, benefics and malefics, planetary deities complexions, sex, primordial compounds, seasons, relationships, dignities etc. are given. Methods of calculating the 5 Upagrahas like Dhooma and Muhurta Velas like Gulika are given. These are totally ten and have their own say on a nativity, as the other nine main Grahas have. So to say, these Upagrahas and Muhurta velas can alter in suitable proportions the effects do to Nava Graha.
In the matter of calculation of Gulika, a different concept comes to light from this oldest work. The later authors have given an altogether variable in knowing Gulika’s position whereas Parasara advised that it should be caste for the beginning of Saturn’s Muhurta. Whereas some suggest that it should be for the ending Muhurta of Saturn.
In chapter 4, each Rasi is described from angles. Slokas 25-30 are the climax of this chapter. An unerring method to find out the Nisheka Lagna (or the moment of intercourse causing conception) from the time of birth is outlined. Thought the process of calculation is as simple as a school student’s mathematical quiz, it has great truth in it which even modern science could not discover. To prove the truth of the statement in the sage’s instruction, a practical example has been given by me. An assumed example cannot better solve the problem. A practical case where the time of coitus is astrologically chosen is taken in hand; time of birth has also been got accurately noted. From the time of birth, the time of Nisheka (or of coitus) is traced which is not a variation, even to the slightest extent, with the originally noted Nisheka time. Again from the time of Nisheka, the birth time is traced in a forward manner using only traditional rules of astrology. This exercise proves three important points, viz.
1. The point of M.C. is to be found out in the natal horoscope and houses intersected accordingly. This is popularly called Sripati Paddhati. Originally Parasara advocated this system.
2. Gulika’s position should be found out for the beginning of Saturn’s Muhurta only.
3. Lahiri’s Ayanamsa is the first best. The reader will find that we have used Moon’s exact longitude in the above process. Simple angular distance by any Ayanamsa will not alter the solution, but a slight change in Moon’s position will take us far away from the truth. With Lahiri’s Ayanamsa, we can safely work out even Nadiamsas, which change fast.
The method given by me in working out the future birth time from the time of coition can very well help the astrologers to foretell the exact moment of birth from the time of query. Researches reveal that time of query has a perfect alignment with the time of Nisheka.
Chapter 5 touches various special Lagnas, like Ghatika Lagna, Hora Lagna and Bhava Lagna. The importance of these ascendanss cannot be underestimated. A final Bhava chart can emerge after merging the different bhava charts caused by these various special ascendants. The final bhava chart can only reveal the extent of planetary effects when considered housewise whereas the bhava chart exclusively prepared on natal ascendant alone can sometimes mislead. This is what the sage emphasizes in sloka 9.
Come to chapter 6. The zodiac is divided in to sixteen Vargas or divisions. These are called Shodasa Vargas. How to find out such Vargas and their use are fully explained. These are from Rasi down to Shashtiamsa. In the classification, the vargas are made in four groups, i.e. 6 vargas, 7 Vargas, 10 Vargas and 16 Vargas and special technical names have been given for the total number of desirable vargas a planet attained for easy identification. For example if a planet is said to be in Golokamsa, it indicates that out of 16 Vargas, it is in 15 good Vargas. These technical names appear in the gradation of Raja Yoga.
Each Varga finds a certain specific use in preference to a planet’s Rasi position. For example, without considering the Dvadasamsa chart no tangible resuits due to the native’s parents can be known. In deciding one’s carrer, the Dasamsa positions of the planets are of supreme importance. These are highlighted in chapter 7. In this very chapter the sage enunciates what is called Vimsopaka strength of a planet. He assigns a maximum of 20 points taking again differently the four Varga classification, viz. Shadvarga, Sapta Varga, Dasa Varga and Shodasa Varga. The consideration here is whether a planet is placed in own sign, friendly sign, enemy’s sign and the like in the concerned Varga scheme. Then an evaluation is done to get Vimsopaka strength. This strength enables us decide the extent of auspicious effects a planet will be capable of revealing in a dasa.
Chapter 8 deals with what is called Jaimini aspects on Rasi basis. Maharshi Jaimini was the sage who expanded these Parasari principles very extensively in Sutra form for easy memorization and successful applicability. The original concept is however from the pen of Parasara.
Childhood evils are discussed in chapter 9 while chapter 10 prescribes planetary combinations to combat such possible evils.
Basic information about the 12 houses could be found in chapter 11 while specific attention may be given to slokas 14-16. These 3 slokas serve an important key in knowing how a Bhava is going to give effects under various circumstances.
Chapters 12-23 give a variety of information and instructions in analyzing the 12 houses of a horoscope in a systematic manner. A close study of these rules will tame one’s mind to scientifically approach the horoscope for fruitful results.
Chapter 24 is again one of the most important chapters. Here, the various effects of a Bhava lord being in a specific house are given. All the 12 lords are fully covered. How to sort out a situation in case of contrary indications in given in slokas 145-148.
The bhava effects of Dhooma, Vyatipata, Gulika etc. are narrated fully in chapter 25. Pranapada Lagna’s position vis-à-vis natal ascendant also reveals certain special effects as could be seen in this very chapter.
Shadbala calculations, Ishta and Kashta phalas and other related mathematical aspects are elaborately laid down in the 3 chapters, viz. 26, 27 and 28.
It is not in order if planets are studied with reference to mere natal chart. Padas for various houses will further alter the planetary effects. This is what is taught in chapter 29. Raja Yogas, inter alia are best analysed through Arudha chart or Pada chart. The sage suggests Graha Padas as well, but unfortunately he leaves it at that without adding much information.
For still deeper research, Upapada will be more effective. This areas will give more clues particularly about marriage, finance and diseases. See chapter 30.
Chapter 31 entitled ‘Argaladhyaya’ though brief has worthy information on planetary interventions, obstructions and effects thereof.
Significance of planets is treated in chapter 32. Karakamsa is the Navamsa Rasi occupied by Atma Karaka. Plenets forming a certain relationship with Karakamsa and their effects are narrated in chapter 33 extending to 99 slokas.
Chapter 34 is again one of the most instructive. Planets assume a certain tendency by virtue of owning a certain house. The sage elaborately touches such roles for various planets for all the 12 ascendants. He decides on such principles the Yoga Karakas, Yoga Bhanga, Karakas and Marakas for each ascendant. This will enable us understand whether planet will give beneficial results or adverse effects. Death dealing planets or Mrakas allow us to guess the period of one’s death.
As the name implies, chapter 35 lists Nabhasa Yogas which are available in most standard texts. Many new Raja Yogas could be found in chapter 36, like Khadga, Mridanga, Chamara, Kahala etc.
Chapters 37 and 38 deal with Lunar and Solar yogas which are popularly known. Raja yogas in chapter 39, Yogas for royal association ion the chapter 40, and financial combinations in chapter 41 deserve special mention, containing a variety of authoritive information.
Maraka or death dealing planets have a say on the finances of the native apart from causing his end. These are tersely enlightened in the 42nd chapter.
The chapter on longevity, bearing No. 43, is among the most important ones. Pindayu, Naisargayu, Amsayu and the like, and computations based on ascendant/planetary pairs linking with movable, fixed and common signs contain instructive information. In the note, I have taken Pindayu calculations and worked out a fullfledged example touching all aspects of computation. I have adopted a scientific method for deductions for planetary contributions arising by placement in bhavas 12 to 7. I have simply not considered bhava positions in these deductions but degree-wise positions of the various planets. I have given one common formula covering the six bhavas and the reader can work out the exact loss of longevity. This can be usefully extened to any loss of years as far as bhavas 12 to 7 is concerned in other systems as well. Other longevity calculations have been suitably annotated by me.
The reader will also do well to study chapter 44 concerning Marakas before he takes a decision on longevity. Rahu/Ketu have also been assigned Marakatwa roles.
The concluding chapter of Vol 1 is the 45th dealing with a number of kinds of Avasthas of the planets. Out of these, the 12 Avasthas, known as Sayanadi Avasthas are of supreme importance. If one tries to interpret these Avasthas in proper spirit, he will be able to detect the diseases the native will suffer. I have supported my views with the help of information from Adbhuta Sagara of Ballala Sena and Hora Ratna of Balabhadra. For example, if Mars is in Agamanavastha, one will suffer from deep ear pains. In the normal parlance, we consider only Jupiter in the context of ear defects. Diseases of hand and foot are assigned to Venus in Agamanavastha. If one conducts a scientific research in the matter of diseases with the help of planetary Avasthas, viz. Sayanadi Avasthas, one is bound to reach many brilliant clues.
The present work offers a vast scope for success in predictive astrology. One can build up his own applied astrology instead of theoretical astrology if he works on the lines suggested by Maharshi Parasara.
A word of caution is necessary for the benefit of the reader, in order to understand the hidden aspects of the various rules given herein, what is required is a thorough understanding of these principles. Skipping over fast to an ensuing chapter may not convey the real idea of a ‘present’ chapter. To make the reader’s Job easier, I have explained every difficult aspect as clearly as I understand based on my own experience and study of other authoritative texts.
In the end, I would like to mention that my attempt to translate this great work and annotate may not have been wholly successful. I surely would have left some shortcomings unnoticed and unrectified. From the readers, I can only expect the affection of forgiving me for any innocent lapses.
It has already been mentioned in preface to the first volume of this book translated by my learned colleague Shri R. Santhanam that as Shri Maha Vishnu is the god of gods, Parasara Hora is the book of books in the field of Astrology. Nothing better could be said about this great classic of Hindu Astrology.
Due to the persistent approach of the publishers and non-availability of Mr. Santhanam due to his pre-occupation for the last three years, I had to take up this stupendous task of English translation of present volume of this great work.
The book BRIHAT PARASARA HORA SASTRA is made up of 97 chapters, 45 of which have already been published as Vol. I. I have great pleasure in presenting herewith the English translation, with comments, illustrations and illustrative charts, of the remaining 52 chapters. The contents of these 52 chapters have been given in full detail in the Table of Contents.
But for the grace of God and the constant encouragement and assistance by the publishers of this book, it would not have been possible to complete this difficult and stupendous task. I hope this effort will prove useful to the readers.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Abhinavagupta (32)
Buddhist (76)
Chakra (42)
Goddess (129)
History (37)
Kundalini (145)
Mantra (61)
Original Tantric Texts (16)
Philosophy (111)
Shaivism (68)
Yantra (42)
हिन्दी (99)
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist