The Timing of Events

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

The Timing of Events fulfils an important need of Vedic Astrology. Predictive astrology aims at identifying the specific period for the occurrence of a specific event. Several principles on this subject have been indicated in classical texts. Many of them are not available to a large number of modern students. The present study on the subject by Bepin Behari gives various principles on the subject in a very lucid and readable manner. It discussed Dasa system, Transits of planets, Astakavarga, Annual Horoscopy and the principles laid down in Tajika Nilkhanthi. It is expected that the students and practitioners of Vedic Astrology will find the book immensely helpful.

Bepin Behari, an Economist by profession, an alma mater of Patna and London Universities, retired from the Government of India service as diplomat. He has studied Vedic Astrology for the last fifty years, has published more than a dozen books on astrology and has lectured in several European and American countries. His articles have been published in English, Dutch and Spanish languages in several international astrological journals. The American Council of Vedic Astrology and Several other international organizations have honoured him for his life-time contributions of Vedic Astrology. Presently, he is engaged in preparing his forthcoming study on The Law of Ultimate Destiny.

Vie Timing of Events fulfils an important gap in classical astrological literature. The ancient seen with yogic siddhis did not need rules fp predicting future events. They clairvoyantly saw the future course of events. The astrological principles are given for those who are not so evolved. The astrological principles aim at helping those who are interested to live a life according to the evolutionary course of their everyday life. Each individual unfolds his life events according to his own unique future. On the basis of astrological indications it is expected that the different individuals could have an understanding of their goal of life and mould their life style in order to attain this goal. Only on the basis of such an understanding of the life process, could an individual have a meaningful and full quota of his happiness and equipoise. The general astrological principles should be modified according to his individual uniqueness. This applied even in the case of the principles relating to the timing of events. The esoteric principles relating to the constitution of man as revealed by the centenary nature of man and the special ray on which the individual is evolving must be taken into account prior to applying the general principles of astrology including those of the timing of events. Another important principle that should be well considered in ascertaining the timing of events is the course of egoic evolution. These are difficult conditions but for an effective astrological prognostication which could be helpful to the individual they must be taken into account. The ancient astrological savants gave different principles relating to the timing of event which they thought could be helpful for different categories of individuals; they did not intend to provide any exhaustive and well integrated treatise on this special subject. In this way we find different texts giving different principles highlighting certain special features of the subject. Presently there are many books on the subject but a consolidated documentation of theses principles is difficult to obtain at one place. Even among the present astrological writers there has been a tendency to deal with certain special categories of the rules. The present study attempts to fulfil this need to some extent in a very modest manner. The present study does not try-to present any new theory on the subject but its primary aim to compile together, giving at one place the most popular principles on the subject.

Three aspects of Vedic astrology ought to be understood carefully for astrological prognostications. The general influence of planetary configurations forms the foundation of all astrological considerations. The location of planets and their interrelationships indicated the broad pattern of events that would take place in the life of an individual. Secondly, the astrologers have to find out the specific time when these influences could fructify. All the planetary influences are not able to produce their result for ever. Only under special conditions they make their impacts felt. There are many combinations such as Gaja Kesari Yoga and Kala Sarpa Yoga which are mere conditions of general welfare. Such combinations produce their impact throughout the life of the individual concerned. Their influence on specific occasions should be very carefully delineated. On the other hand there are combinations for Raja Yogas or the occurrences of special auspicious celebrations such as birth of a child or the construction of a house or acquisitions of royal vehicle. Such events have to be timed on the basis of the principles of the timing of events. The third aspect of astrology with which very few astrologers are interested in recent times is related with the rationale of the occurrence of an event in the life of an individual. This is very difficult subject which cannot be approached by a novice unless he is deeply learned in esoteric aspects of astrology. Every event in the life of a person has some purpose for his egoic unfoldment. This goal is related with the unfoldment of the individual’s various latent faculties.

The Lunar Mansions and the Zodiacal Signs have in built influences that constantly and gradually lead the individuals towards their ultimate destiny. Unless an event in significant in regard to the fructification or drawing the individual near his ultimate goal the specific event even if that is possible on the basis of usual astrological principles will not occur. Every individual has a unique way to unfold his real self. Every important event in the life of a person stands at the crossroad of his life. It is only under such situations that the same can be importantly prognosticated under astrological configurations. Every event in the life of a person results of the past planetary impulses which are generated under the impact of the Law of Karma. But it is not only the past that certain events are arranged in the life of a person at a particular time during the course of his egoic unfoldment. In this way every event in one’s everyday life resulted from the actions of omission and commission of the individual which constituted his karma as well of his egoic mission which is hidden in the veil of future. The practicing astrologer has therefore to take a well- integrated view of the life of an individual while attempting to predict the likely events that might take place in the life of the consultee. The prognostications regarding the future of an individual should not therefore be made in isolation of other factors impinging on the person.

A successful and helpful astrologer has to have adequate knowledge of all the three aspects of Vedic astrology but to be effective and helpful to the individuals consulting him he should have exposure to scientific theories regarding the evolutionary process and the scriptural injunctions for an ethical life. On a sensible base of scientific knowledge with various researches in different aspects of life process and proper grounding in spiritual subjects with an open mind could an astrologer hope to be helpful in proper guidance to the persons approaching him for advice? In this context it is also important to emphasize that the astrologer should completely purge his own psycho-mental propensities and prejudices as well as close- mindedness before undertaking serious astrological prognostications.

Every event is a double faced feature. It results from the past impulses generated by the individual. This is regulated under the law of Karma. It is for this reason that this law is given much importance in astrology. The astrologers studying the timing of events seriously must have a thorough grounding in this doctrine of action and reaction much emphasized in religious scriptures of all countries. This doctrine is related with the law of reincarnation without which astrology is incomplete. Every event in the life of a person pushes him towards his future goal which is accomplished through the process of reincarnation. These requirements devolved great responsibility on the practicing astrologer. Ht needs proper studies of many subjects related with the life process. He cannot remain isolated from the great wind of intellectual openness blowing presently in different fields. This exposure requires that the astrologer to be properly effective must have an open mind, a pure heart and an eager intellect and completely objectivity about his own personality.

An important consideration in predictive astrology is to assess the interregnum between the astrological configurations which related any specific event with the fructification of its results. In some cases, as in the case of Sun and Mars, the result is often immediate. But if the planets are suggesting that the impact would be on the psycho- mental frame of the individual, and then a time gap is usually expected this is an important consideration which the astrologer would do well to recognize. The ancient seen who gave us several treatises on predictive astrology were very reticent in giving details of timing of events. It was so because they were aware of several intricacies of the subject which could not be easily described in everyday common astrological texts. The experience and understanding of the basic and long-term implications of the general principles of astrology are necessary for a sound astrological comprehension of the timing of events and for any light on the evolutionary course of the individual’s behaviour.

The present work therefore should be considered within these various limitations and the wider perspective of the subject suggested above. In this sense with all its limitations this work should be considered an important link wider perspective of Vedic astrology.

The ancient seers gave us the knowledge of impending events. They gave it so that we could understand our destiny and live accordingly. The question of destiny according to ancient Vedic seers was very different from what it is? They used the word dharma to connote the purpose and process of manifestation. While describing the cosmic manifestation, they began with non-existence and affirmed the incomprehensible nature of the same. ‘The non-existent was not then, nor was the existent i.e. the Earth, nor the firmament, not that which was beyond. When there was nothing then what could cover what, Where and under whose care? Did the waters and the bottomless deep then exist?”1 On this background of skepticism they postulated the Purusa, the cosmic creative principle that is all-pervasive. “Purusa is perceptible everywhere, as if he has thousands of heads, thousands of eyes, thousands of feet....The Purusa alone is this alone, that what was and will be. And he is the Lord of immortality, and that which grows with food, is mortal”. This cosmic man and his relationship with every terrestrial form of existence is the basic foundation on which the Vedic astrology was based.

The timing of events as described in astrological texts aimed at identifying the stage at which the individual and the cosmic man tended to work together. Everything that happened to the individual was an expression of the Will of the Supreme and this relationship was described as the karma of the individual. The manner in which the individual was expected to react to them was considered as his dharma. Within this basic framework of karma and dharma the subject of timing of events described in Vedic astrology has to be studied.

The aspect of astrology, which is often found to be overlooked, whether in Eastern or Western, is the paradigm of astrological science.

Absence of proper appreciation of the basic framework in which this revelation was made often raised controversy. The occult sciences are neither experiential nor are they the results of innumerable examples of observed occurrences. The occult knowledge is essentially intuitive, revelationary and imparted in a mystic manner. Hence the understanding of occult truths demands that the student raise his or her consciousness to the level of consciousness of the seers who have codified them for the benefit of humanity. This approach requires that the occult subjects are studied in their proper perspective and within the framework of general philosophy and such other teachings related to them. This is especially so when we study the deeper aspects of Vedic astrology, which postulates that every event in the life of an individual is an expression of the Supreme.

The main difficulty with regard to Vedic astrology arises from the fact that it was conceived as a part of the ancient Indian teachings contained in the Vedas. It was acknowledged as a limb of the Vedas. It was therefore called Vedanga. Before a disciple was introduced to the mystic teachings, he was expected to be proficient in several subjects including astrology. There was no contradiction between astrology and the metaphysical teachings of the Vedas. They supplemented each other. But none of these philosophical or religious subjects was revealed just for the curiosity of the so called intellectuals. This knowledge was intended for those who wanted to comprehend the deeper aspects of manifestation and adapt themselves to the requirements postulated under the scheme. The ancient world religions, which were esoteric in character, were practical guidelines. The religious philosophy, rituals and performances of one’s everyday duty were all different aspects of a comprehensive and well-integrated system.

There was a great danger that the selfish and unwary individuals could misappropriate the knowledge, which was imparted after ages of contemplation, purification and initiation in secret mysteries. The emergence of Black Magic is a glaring example of this kind of misuse. It was for such reasons that knowledge was contained in a language, not easily decipherable, unless some one had the necessary keys to them and had the requisite astro—mental preparations to comprehend the teachings in the right manner. The use of mystic and symbolic language in the description of such subjects therefore became the general rule. The recent researches and studies in myths and symbols of scriptures reveal that they contain very profound truths though we have not yet succeeded in deciphering the full meaning of them. One of the methods for comprehending the ancient wisdom is to approach them through astrological revelations and test their efficacy in revealing the truth and falsehood in one’s own life. The general description of astrological principles in relation with the natal horoscope describes one’s life in general terms but the identification of specific incidents in one’s life can indicate the invisible thread that binds the individual with the all pervading cosmic creator, the Cosmic man.

It is unfortunate that there has been a big interregnum between the ancient Indian civilization and our contemporary society. It has happened due to the fact that the ancient Indian society was oriented towards living the life of righteousness and not getting entangled in mere theoretical discussions. To the ancient Indians any knowledge was useful only if it could be lived and adapted to one’s life. The wisdom was a part of the life and it was not codified in a comprehensive treatise for someone to read. Whatever is found about it presently are mostly in fragments aimed at guiding the individuals in their everyday life towards righteousness.

The ancient philosophy describing the nature of the all-pervasive natural powers as anthropomorphized gods or supernatural powers in absurd physical forms and incredible deeds and powers was an acknowledgement of the various degrees of natural powers with whom the individuals interacted and functioned in their everyday life. The austerities and yajnas were expressions of this cooperation. The astronimical details given in Puranas and different epics indicated their awareness of planetary deities actively participating in the affairs of men.

In spite of such elaborate knowledge and celestial awareness, the seers did not document or codify the rules of planetary impulses. These were included in the general scheme of understanding, which included knowledge of occult sides of things, the method of cooperation with these powers, and the rules guiding these planetary impulses. The Brahmanas devoted their whole life in studying them. They used the knowledge thus obtained for guiding the people. That was the relationship between a priest and devotees, between the hierophants and the neophytes. The Brahmai3as and the temples were the chief fulcrum around which the ancient Indian society revolved.

The temples were also located at the spots where the stellar forces poured in a special way. The knowledge of this downpour was available to the priests who were experts even in Vastu principles’ as well. With the advent of foreign invaders when the aggressors rensacked the country and the temples were desecrated, the temple-based society got destroyed. The priests went into oblivion and the mysterious knowledge of the East went into concealment. The spiritual custodians of the mystic knowledge however saw that the outer husk of this knowledge remained with the common masses. The available treatises on astrological knowledge which are presently being discovered at various places on palm leaves and such other parchments are remnants of this concealed knowledge available for mass consumption. The esoteric principles operating behind these astrological impulses were not included in them. These could open to the casual and prying readers, unprepared to absorb them, immense power and could even ruin their life by arousing their animal passions and desires. This has been the main cause for the concealment of esoteric astrological knowledge during the last 2,000 years or so. The available treatises indicate how to calculate and apprehend the coming events and the likely future of the individual but they do not reveal the inner guiding principles.

During the last 1500 years or so the Indian astrologers have been primarily concerned with maintaining and preserving the predictive astrology. The astrological paradigm that sustains this occult science has its metaphysical base in spiritual philosophy. It is very abstruse and full of occult hints and suggestions. It reveals so much that it can not be left in the hands of the unscrupulous and unprepared prying individuals. It is therefore, preserved in the sacred custody of the initiated seers. But the predictive aspect of astrology, which makes the individuals interested in this subject and makes them aware of their mission in life, can be disseminated among the people the predictive astrology is very attractive and many people are attracted towards it. This dissemination is helpful even to preserve astrology because by its attraction it has the potential of enlivening the interest of some serious students sometimes to explore the metaphysical aspect of the subject. The esoteric base of the subject is still preserved in the secret mysteries but the outer husk, which contains the predictive portion of it, has been disseminated widely for more than thousand years.

The itinerant religious preachers went from village to village and aroused the interests of the masses in predictive astrology by predicting daily events likely to happen towards them. On the international level many international visitors can be seen to be taking interests in the subject who are trying to get the available knowledge translated and sent to their mother country. It is in this way that Al Beruni and many others came to India and managed to learn Indian astrology. During this period, many Indian scholars were also invited to Arabian and Middle East countries. Their services were mobilized for translating the Indian [esoteric I texts in local languages. One often comes across these translations in the libraries of ancient countless in different regions. These are some of the indications, which are for the historians to investigate. But the fact remains that the metaphysical aspect of astrology has been kept secret and the esoteric astrology has widely been disseminated. Even in India the astrological texts available presently pertain to this period. In order to go deeper into the basic principles of Vedic astrology it is necessary to transcend the esoteric astrology and delve deeper to comprehend the essential features of astrology and the divine forces which it describes. Only this kind of knowledge can satis & the modern mind and help them in orientation of their lives based on these occult forces and cooperate with the planetary hierarchy to achieve one’s fullness of life.

During recent years some attempts have been made to explore the esoteric dimensions of astrology and come to an understanding of its relationship with metaphysical teachings of world religions. In this regard the works of H.P. Blavatsky stands supreme. She made bold attempts to revive the ancient occult sciences but was very hesitant in revealing them to the common man. She however made the people interested in the subject and lifted a little of the veil over the subject1. She emphasized that the physical planets were external expressions of the inner planetary spirits that ensouled them and were carrying out the will of the Absolute All through the stellar impulses in the world of causes or the world of physical manifestation. Blavatsky laid great stress on the evolutionary aspect of these stellar impulses. The zodiacal signs, constellations and the planetary hierarchy were all collectively arranged in such a way that they revealed the stages, through which the divinity in man was exposed and externalized. They also indicated the process by which the human ego, the society in which he lived and the terrestrial globe he dwelt were finally transformed. The transformation took place according to the archetype, which existed, for the humanity in the mind of the Supreme. Blavatsky also revealed the esoteric nature of various teachings available in sacred scriptures. She declared that the religious myths and symbols could lay bare vast potential of nature provided the secret was unlocked with proper keys. According to her there were seven keys for unlocking these secrets. These keys were given to the aspirants only towards the end in different levels of initiations, which were given in various mystery schools. She revealed much about the nature of astrological principles but she clothed her teachings in mystic language. Very few modern astrologers are interested in her brand of astrology, but some of those who delved in them have reaped precious harvests. She had insisted that one has to step beyond the visible world of matter and enter into the domain of transcendental spirit in order to comprehend the true nature of astrology. Rudolf Steiner, Alice Bailey, and Dane Rudhyar and others took the lead given by Blavatsky. All of them have tried to weave a pattern in astrological predictions, which exposes a little of the divine pattern existing in every event in everybody’s life.

The relationship between the planets and the human individuals still remains a deeply mystical subject. One of the most outstanding Vedantists of the 19th century who was held in great esteem even by H.P. Blavatsky was T.Subba Rao. He was very reluctant to discuss esoteric teachings to unprepared students. In some of his writings he has however given some hints and suggestions which are very valuable for astrological students. Therein he has indicated some of the basic principles of stellar operation as well as the mechanism through which these influences affect the individuals and the human society.’ He mentioned that the zodiacal cycle revealed the pattern of evolutionary courses. It indicated the various cosmic processes through which the individuals as well as the terrestrial existence were manifested. He mentioned that the various religious monuments and the places of worship were not expressions of crafty priests to exploit superstitious worshippers. These monuments served the purpose towards harnessing of stellar forces. They were intended to flow to the earth, move through the various channels and pervade throughout the globe as streams of divine consciousness. It was expected that these forces gradually and appropriately spiritualized the humanity at large. He also indicated that the planets were related with various force centers known as cakras in yogic literature.

A well-known German mystic Johann Georg Gichtel, a pupil of Jakob Boehme in his book Theosophia Practica (1696) indicated some correspondence between the different planets and the various portions of the human anatomy. This information was rather a camouflaged version of the relationship existing between the planets and the cakras. It nonetheless revealed that the Middle Age mystics of Europe were also acquainted with the relationship existing between the planets, and the yogic force centres related with kundalini sakti’. They studied this subject in their religious books but did not reveal them to the masses. This view is strengthened even by recent psychological studies of Carl G.Jung. He made intensive research in alchemy of the Middle Ages and came to discern the surprising relationships assumed by these mystic philosophers. These provided valuable clues to the understanding of psychology, astrology and spiritual development. An important aspect of these mystic teachings has been the emergence of a pattern in all mental conflicts and psycho physical conditions of a human being. The emerging pattern in these studies is the intimate relation with planetary impulses. These studies show that the religious myths and symbols are related with deeper teachings concerning human evolution. They have been given a language not easy to understand unless one possesses the necessary keys for unlocking them.