Dr.Theja's articles published

You can read a lot in this page and learn

1. In God's Light

- Laura Attwood

2. What is Vedic Astrology Or Indian Astrology - Jyotish

-Dr. Theja

3. How does Vedic Astrology or Indian Astrology (Jyotish) predict?

-Dr.Theja

4. The 9 Grahas (Planets)

-Dr.Theja

5. Ancient Indian Science

- T. Selva

6. The Vision of Vedic Astrology

-Dr.Theja

7. Vedic Astrology & Gems

- Dr.Theja

8. Seeing Stars

- Jessie Kok



 

What is Vedic Astrology or Indian Astrology –
“JYOTISH” ?

First of all, lets cover some roots. Vedic Astrology is called Jyotish, (ja-yo-teesh),
which is a Sanskrit dual word. Sanskrit is the most ancient language on Earth, divine in origin, and the root of most of the languages of modern India such as Hindi and Bengali. Jyoti means light and Ish is in short for Ishwar, which means God. So Jyoti-Ishwar or, the Light of God is said as Jyotish.

'Veda' is a Sanskrit word which means 'knowledge'. 'Vedic' means 'of the knowledge'. This word was used in ancient India to describe the original culture, the original knowledge given to humans at the beginning of creation. It was passed down orally since the time of creation, then eventually in written form to the present. 'Vedic' refers to original knowledge given by God to humankind.


About 25 years ago, when I first encountered Vedic Astrology - Jyotish - I realized, as have many before me, that here was an extraordinary and unique system of astrology. I listened in astonishment as the Jyotishi (Vedic Astrologer) described my life in detail so subtle that I felt he knew me almost better than I knew myself. My only explanation was that he was accessing a tradition of knowledge that surpassed anything we know in the West. This view has been confirmed by friends and relatives who have consulted Vedic Astrologers. They were as astounded as I at the power of Vedic Astrology to reveal the secrets and promise of our lives.
A system of astrology that grew out of the ancient Vedic tradition of India, Vedic Astrology differs from Western astrology in a number of significant respects. For one, it uses the sidereal or fixed zodiac instead of the tropical or movable zodiac of Western astrology. In Western astrology, the zodiac, due to a tilting of the earth on its axis, appears to be moving out of alignment with the actual star-based zodiac. Currently this misalignment amounts to slightly more than 23 degrees, nearly one entire sign. Thus, a person whose rising sign might be Scorpio in Western astrology, has a good chance of being Libra ascendant in Vedic astrology.
While Western astrology emphasizes the Sun sign, Vedic Astrology looks to the Ascendant and the placement of the Moon. As well, Vedic Astrology does not recognize the outer planets, Neptune, Pluto, or Uranus. It does, however, give important emphasis to the two Lunar nodes, Rahu and Ketu, the points at which the moon in its orbit around the earth passes through the plane of the ecliptic. Although merely points in space, these nodes are so crucial they are given the status of planets in Vedic Astrology.

Also of great importance are the Nakshatras, the 27 star constellations, one of which the Moon will occupy at the moment of birth, thereby determining among other things the cycle of planetary periods that determine the sequence of events in one's life.

Perhaps more than anything, Vedic Astrology is valued for its predictive ability. Centuries ago Vedic seers cognized principles that allow past, present, and future events to be known. Called the Vimsottari Dasha system or planetary periods, this aspect of Vedic Astrology allows the astrologer to trace not only what has gone before, but what is likely to happen in the future.

Known as the Eye of the Veda, Vedic Astrology enjoys a degree of acceptance and reverence in the Indian spiritual tradition that many Westerners may not understand. More than just a system of astrology, Vedic Astrology is an integral component of Vedic knowledge.

At one level Vedic Astrology deals with the circumstances and characteristics of a person's material life, its purpose to reveal and perhaps remedy what opportunities or perils may await. By knowing what lies ahead, it is believed that one can not only maximize the good that is coming, but also avert any obstacles or dangers.

Vedic astrologers (Jyotishis) will say that while Jyotish uses logical, repeatable, and therefore scientific principles, it also involves intuition, a crucial component that varies from astrologer to astrologer. However, the concept of intuition hardly explains the power of Jyotish in discerning the circumstances of our life. Certainly, anyone who has received a personal reading from an experienced Jyotishi comes away amazed by the degree to which the astrologer appeared to know them.

In Jyotish, it is often the way in which information is expressed that affects one most profoundly. An offhand, almost careless observation by the Jyotishi may capture perfectly a subtle attribute or circumstance of our life we cannot help but acknowledge.

Some believe that in Jyotish our own absolute nature speaks to us through the astrologer. Indeed, the Jyotishi's first words reveal incontrovertibly that we are known to some higher intelligence. Moreover, the relationship toward us is unmistakeably one of acceptance, love, and compassion. Far more than predictions of what will or will not happen, the Jyotishi's words promote an acceptance and understanding of our life that can go a long way in dispelling fear, uncertainty, and isolation, and awaken in us a truer conception of who we are.


How does Vedic Astrology or Indian Astrology (Jyotish) predict ?


An expert in Jyotish can derive full knowledge about a person's potential and trends in life just from the place and time of birth. Even though Jyotish and Western Astrology have many similarities, there are also important differences that make each a unique approach.

The knowledge of Jyotish has been passed on in Sankrit and many of the basic terms in Vedic Astrology are still used in Sanskrit. The basis for a Jyotish analysis of a person's life is the calculation of the Birthchart, or Janma Kundali. In this chart the "Grahas" (translated as planets) are positioned in their respective Rashis (Signs of the zodiac). Each Rashi (sign) falls in exactly one Bhava (house).The planets aspect each other, and the planets have lordships over the "Bhavas", or houses.

The effects of the planets, signs and houses influencing each other, described by a vast number of rules, reveal a stunning amount of detail about a person's personality, education,profession, social life, health, relationships, spiritual development, and so on. The birth chart only shows WHAT a person can expect in life, but not WHEN.

For the precise timing of when the many tendencies found in the birth chart will manifest, Jyotish has the unique system of Dashas, completely unknown in Western astrology. Dashas are planetary periods that rule very precisely defined periods of one life. The main periods (Maha dashas) last anywhere between 6 and 20 years, and in its period, a planet will have a dominating influence in the life of a person. Each main period itself is subdivided in 9 subperiods, each ruled by a different planet. Just like the main periods each sub-period is characterized by the articular qualities and significations of the ruling planets. The dasha system is so accurate, that it can explain changes in life from day to day with an amazing precision.

The 9 Grahas (Planets)

Jyotish or Vedic Astrology uses 9 Grahas (planets) in the chart analysis:
the Sun (Surya)
Moon (Chandra)
Mars(Mangal)
Mercury(Budha)
Jupiter(Guru)
Venus(Shukra)
Saturn(Shani)
Northern Lunar Node (Rahu)
Southern Lunar Node(Ketu)

Rahu, Ketu, and the Planets influence each other in various ways. The ancient sages saw a relationship between the movement of the planets and the ups and downs of human experience. Vedic Astrology explores these variations in order to help us anticipate challenges and comprehend their meaning. Two planets in the same sign are conjunct. Planets in sign opposition are said to aspect each other. Mars, Jupiter and Saturn have special additional aspects. The sign in which a planet is located is of great importance. If the sign is favorable to the planet, the qualities of the planet are expressed more strongly and auspiciously. The person in question will enjoy more benefits in the area of life that is signified by the planets. Contrary, if the sign is very unfavourable, the planet will turn inauspicious and bring problems and struggle in whatever area of life it represents. Vedic Astrologer calculates all of these influences and many more. He has the ability to calculate and analyse all of the complex influences (with the help of some excellent software) of the planets and then present them to you in ordinary language (Interpretations).

Surya (the Sun)
The Sun represents the soul, the ego and the body of the individual, and therefore its placement is of great importance. The Sun is best placed in Mesha (Aries) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Tula (Libra) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. The sun is lord of the sign Simha (Leo) and also of the house where Simha is located.


Chandra (the Moon)

The Moon represents the mind, the feelings and, like the ascendant, the overall life of the person. Unlike Western Astrology where the Sun is most important, in Jyotish the Moon is the first graha to look at and plays a central role in many calculations and predictive techniques. The Moon is best placed in the first few degrees of Vrishabha (Taurus) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Vrishika (Scorpio) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. The Moon is lord of the sign Karka (Cancer) and also of the house where Cancer is located.

Mangala (Mars)

Mars represents the energy, stamina and younger brothers of the individual. If well placed, it brings strength and focussed energy, if poorly placed accidents and injuries. Mars is best placed in Makara (Capricorn) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Karka (Cancer) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Mars is lord of the sign Mesha (Aries) and Vrischika (Scorpio) and also of the houses where these signs are located.


Budha (Mercury)

Mercury represents the speech, intellect and friends of the individual. It is a very, adaptable and curious planet. If afflicted, it gives speech problems and a poor discriminative ability. If well placed it makes a person witty, easy going and skillful. Mercury is best placed in Kanya (Virgo) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Meena (Pisces) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Mercury is lord of the sign Kanya (Virgo) and Mithuna (Gemini) and also of the houses where these signs are placed.

Guru (Jupiter)

Jupiter represents knowledge, wisdom and the offspring of the individual. It is a planet of expansion, growth and good fortune. Jupiter is best placed in Karka (Cancer) where is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Makara (Capricorn) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Jupiter is lord of the signs Dhanus (Saggitarius) and Meena(Pisces) and also of the house where these sign are located. Jupiter aspects 3 signs, the 5th, 7th and 9th signs from its ownposition.

Shukra (Venus)

Venus represents the enjoyment, taste, sexuality and relationships of the individual. It can give a person a great sense of esthetics and very pleasant personality, or sensual and tasteless, dependant on how well it is placed in the chart. Venus is best placed in Meena (Pisces) where is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Kanya (Virgo) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Venus is lord of the sign Vrishabha (Taurus) and also of Tula(Libra) and of the houses where these signs are located.

Shani (Saturn)

Saturn is the slowest moving graha, and represents the more time related aspects in life: endurance, sense responsibility, hard work, longevity and reclusion. It is typically described as the bringer of grief and misery in life, but if it is auspiciously placed in a chart it will be one's best insurance against poverty. Saturn is best placed in Tula (Libra) where is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Mesha (Aries) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Saturn is lord of the sign Makara(Capricorn) and Kumbha(Aquarius) also of the houses where these signs are located.

Rahu (the Northern Lunar node)

Rahu is the point in the zodiac where the paths of the Sun and the Moon cross. If the Sun and Moon in their movement meet in this point, then an eclipse takes place. Eclipses "seize" the light of the Sun or the Moon, and it is this seizing quality that is characteristic for Rahu.

Ketu (The southern lunar node)

Ketu is not really a planet, but rather a mathematically calculated point in the heavens. Because of its lack of a "body" it represents uncertain, unexpected and unpredictable phenomena. It is intelligent and relates to mathematics and other abstract knowledge.


The 12 Rashis (signs)

The zodiac is divided in 12 sections, which are called the 12 rashis, or signs. Each sign is exactly 30 degrees. Like the bhavas(houses), the rashis are each related to an area of life. Part of the characteristics of a sign are derived from the graha(planet) that is lord of that sign, but independant of that, each rashis has its own unique traits. The rashis are classified in many different ways, as movable fixed and dual, as male or female, as watery, dry, airy or fiery, etc. The most influencial rashi is the one which was ascending at the Eastern horizon at the time of birth. It is called the "Lagna", or better known, Ascendant. Because of its prominence, the whole chart will be colored according to its characteristics. Another very important sign is the one that holds the Moon, the so-called Janma Rashi. The Moon is very important in Jyotish, and so is the Rashi it is in. Both the Ascendant and the Moon sign will be of major influence in the life of the individual.

The 12 Bhavas (houses)

The Jyotish chart is divided in 12 sections, which are called the 12 bhavas, or houses. Each bhava is related to an area of life, just like the planets are. Each of the 12 bhavas coincides with one sign. (This is called the equal house system in Western Astrology) Every bhava has one planet which is called its lord, and the lord of a bhava is always the lord of the sign that falls in that bhava. For example, Mars is lord of Aries, and if Aries falls in the 5th house then Mars is also lord of the 5th house. The most important house is the 1st house, and it represent the personality of the individual, his body and life in general.
Vedic Astrologer will calculate and anlyse all of these areas for you and give you interpretations on their influences.

 

The Vision of Vedic Astrology
By Dr Theja

 “To deny the influence of the stars is to deny the wisdom and
providence of God”

I first encountered Vedic Astrology or Jyotish about 25 years ago and discovered a system of astrology which can reveal the secrets and truer promise of our lives. Some believe that in Jyotish, our own absolute nature speaks to us through the astrologer (Jyotishi). Indeed, the Jyotishi’s first words reveal incontrovertibly that we are known to some higher intelligence.

Jyotish (ja-yo-teesh) is the Sanskrit (most ancient language on Earth) dual word for Vedic Astrology. Jyoti means light and Ish is in short for Ishwar, which means God. Combined with Vedic, which means “of the knowledge”, the words aptly describe this astrological system.

Vedic Astrology differs significantly from Western astrology.

First, it uses the sidereal or fixed zodiac, instead of the tropical or movable zodiac of Western astrology. In Western astrology, because of a tilting of the earth on its axis, thezodiac appears to be moving out of alignment with the actual star-based zodiac. Currently, this misalignment amounts to slightly more than 23 degrees, nearly one entire sign. So a person whose rising sign might be Scorpio in Western astrology, has a good chance of being Libra ascendant in Vedic astrology.

Second,Western astrology emphasises the Sun sign while Vedic Astrology looks to the Ascendant and the placement of the Moon. In addition, Vedic Astrology does not recognise the outer planets, Neptune, Pluto, or Uranus. It does, however, give emphasis to the two lunar nodes, Rahu and Ketu, the points at which the moon (in its orbit around the earth) passes through the plane of the ecliptic. Although merely points in space, these nodes are so crucial they are given the status of planets in Vedic Astrology.

Also of great importance are the Nakshatras, the 27 star constellations, one of which the Moon will occupy at the moment of birth. This establishes the cycle of planetary periods that determine the sequence of events in one’s life.

On one level, Vedic Astrology deals with the circumstances and characteristics of a person’s material life, to reveal and perhaps remedy what opportunities or perils may await us. It is believed that by knowing what lies ahead it is possible to maximise the good and avert obstacles or dangers.

An expert in Jyotish can derive full knowledge about a person’s potential and trends in life from place and time of birth. The Birthchart, or Janma Kundali, can forecast precise times when different tendencies will manifest. The Grahas (planets) are positioned in their respective Rashis (Signs of the Zodiac). Each Rashi falls in exactly one Bhava (house). The planets aspect each other, and have lordships over the Bhavas.

Then comes the system of Dashas, unknown in Western astrology. Dashas are planetary periods that rule defined stages of one’s life. The main periods (Maha dashas) last between 6 and 20 years, and during this period, a planet will have a dominating influence in the life of a person. Each main period is divided in 9 sub-periods, each ruled by a different planet. Just like the main periods, each sub-period is characterised by the particular qualities and significations of the ruling planets. The dasha system can explain changes in life from day to day with amazing precision.

The 9 Grahas (Planets)

Surya (the Sun)
The Sun represents the soul, ego and body of the individual, so its placement is of great importance.The Sun is best placed in Mesha (Aries) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Tula (Libra) it is least auspicious and called debilitated.The sun is lord of the sign Simha (Leo) and also of the house where Simha is located.

Chandra (the Moon)
The Moon represents the mind, the feelings and, like the ascendant, the overall life of the person. Unlike Western Astrology where the Sun is most important, in Jyotish the Moon is the first graha to look at and plays a central role in many calculations and predictive techniques.The Moon is best placed in the first few degrees of Vrishabha (Taurus) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Vrishika (Scorpio) it is least auspicious and called debilitated.The Moon is lord of the sign Karka (Cancer) and also of the house where Cancer is located.

Mangala (Mars)
Mars represents the energy, stamina and younger brothers of the individual. If well placed, it brings strength and focussed energy, if poorly placed accidents and injuries. Mars is best placed in Makara (Capricorn) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Karka (Cancer) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Mars is lord of the sign Mesha (Aries) and Vrischika (Scorpio) and also of the houses where these signs are located.

Budha (Mercury)
Mercury represents the speech, intellect and friends of the individual. It is an adaptable and curious planet. If afflicted, it gives speech problems and a poor discriminative ability. If well placed it makes a person witty, easy going and skillful. Mercury is best placed in Kanya (Virgo) where it is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Meena (Pisces) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Mercury is lord of the sign Kanya (Virgo) and Mithuna (Gemini) and also of the houses where these signs are placed.

Guru (Jupiter)
Jupiter represents knowledge, wisdom and the offspring of the individual. It is a planet of expansion, growth and good fortune. Jupiter is best placed in Karka (Cancer) where is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Makara (Capricorn) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Jupiter is lord of the signs Dhanus (Saggitarius) and Meena (Pisces) and also of the house where these sign are located. Jupiter aspects 3 signs, the 5th, 7th and 9th signs from its own position.

Shukra (Venus)
Venus represents the enjoyment, taste, sexuality and relationships of the individual. It can give a person a great sense of esthetics and very pleasant personality, or sensual and tasteless, dependant on how well it is placed in the chart.Venus is best placed in Meena (Pisces) where is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Kanya (Virgo) it is least auspicious and called debilitated.Venus is lord of the sign Vrishabha (Taurus) and also of Tula(Libra) and of the houses where these signs are located.

Shani (Saturn)
Saturn is the slowest moving graha, and represents the more time related aspects in life: endurance, sense responsibility, hard work, longevity and reclusion. It is typically described as the bringer of grief and misery in life, but if it is auspiciously placed in a chart it will be one’s best insurance against poverty. Saturn is best placed in Tula (Libra) where is called exalted. Opposite from there, in Mesha (Aries) it is least auspicious and called debilitated. Saturn is lord of the sign Makara (Capricorn) and Kumbha (Aquarius) also of the houses where these signs are located.

Rahu (the Northern Lunar node)
Rahu is the point in the zodiac where the paths of the Sun and the Moon cross. If the Sun and Moon in their movement meet in this point, then an eclipse takes place. Eclipses “seize” the light of the Sun or the Moon, and it is this seizing quality that is characteristic for Rahu.

Ketu (The southern lunar node)
Ketu is not really a planet, but rather a mathematically calculated point in the heavens. Because of its lack of a “body” it represents uncertain, unexpected and unpredictable phenomena. It is intelligent and relates to mathematics and other abstract knowledge.

Rahu, Ketu, and the Planets influence each other in various ways. The ancient sages saw a relationship between the movement ofthe planets and the ups and downs of human experience. Vedic Astrology explores these variations in order to help us anticipate challenges and comprehend their meaning.


The 12 Rashis (signs)

The zodiac is divided in 12 sections, which are called the 12 rashis, or signs. Each sign is exactly 30 degrees. Like the bhavas (houses), the rashis are each related to an area of life. Part of the characteristics of a sign are derived from the graham (planet) that is lord of that sign, but independent of that, each rashis has its own unique traits. The rashis are classified in many different ways, such as movable fixed and dual, as male or female, as watery, dry, airy or fiery. The most influential rashi is the one, which was ascending at the Eastern horizon at the time of birth. It is called the “Lagna”, or better known, Ascendant. Because of its prominence, the whole chart will be coloured according to its characteristics. Another important sign is the one that holds the Moon, the so-called Janma Rashi. The Moon is important in Jyotish, and so is the Rashi it is in. Both the Ascendant and the Moon sign will be of major influence in the life of the individual.


The 12 Bhavas (houses)

The Jyotish chart is divided in 12 sections, which are called the 12 bhavas, or houses. Each bhava is related to an area of life, just like the planets are. Each of the 12 bhavas coincides with one sign. (This is called the equal house system in Western Astrology) Every bhava has one planet which is called its lord, and the lord of a bhava is always the lord of the sign that falls in that bhava. For example, Mars is lord of Aries, and if Aries falls in the 5th house then Mars is also lord of the 5th house.The most important house is the 1st house, and it represents the personality of the individual, his body and life in general.

Vedic Astrologers will calculate and analyse all of these areas for you and give you interpretations on their influences.


 

Vedic Astrology and Gems


By Dr. Theja Hettiaratchi, Ph.D, FGA, FGG, PG


Gems and precious minerals have been in use from time immemorial as a very valuable source which used by royal families, nobles, women and men to adorn themselves or to decorate and add value to the items that they use in their daily life. The world of colourful gems is endlessly fascinating. Since ancient times, coloured stones have been thought to possess certain magical powers or the ability to bestow the wearer with certain attributes.

All the living or non-living entities in this universe have a link to the white bright light that is composed of seven rays which we all have seen in the rainbow. In the scientific world this bundle of seven rays known as VIBGYOR comprises the colors violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange, and red. In one of the ancient Indian Spiritual scriptures known as "Kurma Purana", the seven planets are to be seen as a grouping of the seven cosmic rays. Other than in a rainbow we can not see these seven cosmic rays without the aid of a prism. A well facetted and polished gem can do the same to gather the energy of these cosmic rays.

In Vedic astrology or in most of the metaphysical subjects it indicates that gems affect the human body, giving either negative or positive effects. Astrologically they have the potential to increase the inherent capacity of a particular gem for a particular planet. They are generally worn with jewellery but mainly to enhance health, wealth, power and popularity. In the history there are numerous stories about how Kings and queens used to collect the best of gems to protect themselves from evil, omens, ill health, to stay in power and also for increasing longevity.

The rationale and purpose of gems would depend on the characteristics, color and vibrations of planets as most of the major important gems can be attributed to one of the Planets. The color and the size of the gems also play a major role and influence the person who wears and others who sees the brilliance of the gem studded ring, bracelet or the necklace.

Every gem has the power to absorb the radiation emitted by a particular planet. Therefore, in order to receive its benefits, the gem pertaining to the particular planet should be worn. Wearing gemstones according to one's birth chart is a fundamental theory of Vedic astrology and in India the majority of people wear at least one or two gems on their hand or around their neck or wrist. Astrologers differ somewhat in their methods of prescribing gemstones but there are certain clearly agreed upon principles.

The native should avoid the use of gems related to malefic planets in the horoscope. It is always advisable to use the gem which is related to the strongest planet of your horoscope. This holds true even during the Mahadasa and Antardasa of the malefic planet.

The general practice is to wear the gemstone that corresponds to the lord of the first house, the most important house of a horoscope. By doing this the person strengthens his or her image, confidence, well-being, self-esteem, and the ability to gain recognition. The birthstone is generally the most important stone to wear. However, if the lord of first house is pretty weak, the effect of the gem related to that lord could not be strong. The effects of gemstones are subtle, but they are profound enough for most individuals to notice a positive difference.

Therefore, it is very important to mention that it is always better to strengthen the strongest planet or planets in ones horoscope. This is also a decision taken at the recent voting session of the Planetary Gemologists Association – refer to the voting results and the list of international member list. To study more, please refer to the Web Page and browse: http://www.p-g-a.org/powers.html.

Planetary Gemology: (Ratna-vijnana or Ratna-para-vidya) Ancient Vedic science of the relationship between 9 types of Gems and 9 Planets recognized as most important in sidereal astrology and ayurveda. Based on the "Navaratna" philosophy of Vedic birthstones. Thus planetary gemology is an ancient healing and protective art that can be used to one's advantage with the help of a Vedic astrologer.

However, many practising astrologers, wish to strengthen the weak planet by advising the client to wear a gem that signifies the weak planet in the horoscope or represents the weak Dasha lord. Therefore, one good warning is that Gems should be recommended only after studying the Vedic Horoscope and the strength of the planets in that horoscope.

The effect of gems will depend on the nature of the Planet, its dignity or strength and placement in each individual horoscope. There are two types of planets in every horoscope, known as ANUKUL-GRAHA or favourable planets, and PRATIKUL-GRAHA or unfavourable planets. Gems will act accordingly. If (for example) Sun (Surya) is well-placed in your horoscope then Sun's gem, ruby, will also act well; but if Sun is ill-placed in your chart then the Sun's gem will also be unfavourable.

Therefore, a Planetary Gem Adviser (PGA) or a Planetary Gemologist (PG, who is a Certified Gemologist as well a Planetary Gem Adviser) is qualified to recommend Gems based on Jyotish (Vedic Astrology). A PG or PGA will follow the Anukul-Graha system to recommend Gems that represent the favorable planets in the horoscope.

Since I am a full time practising Vedic Astrologer who is also qualified as a Certified Gemologist and a Planetary Gemologist, many of my clients have being asking me about the quality of Gems that they should buy and from where to buy. Knowing the vast selection of Gems available in the market it will be very hard for an ordinary person to find a good natural Gem unless they get a referral to someone who has virtues and talents in multiple areas. Such a gem dealer must first be totally honest and reliable. It is much better if the dealer is an expert in Gems, but also knows about the Vedic literature pertaining to Jyotish gemstones. Honesty and reliability is very important as it is hard to identify a good quality Gem because today the market is flooded with imitations and man made Gems (synthetics).

When we talk about the quality of Gems that we use for astrological purpose, the first criteria is that the Gem has to be 100% natural. This means that the Gem should not be heat treated or not exposed to any form of radiation, dyed, pasted or glued and chemically altered. It is also advisable to select if possible a large stone closer to 2 carats or more. Also try to select a clean Gem if possible a flawless Gem without cracks, much impurities and imperfections. This can be hard and a costly issue. Therefore, one should consider buying a slightly smaller Gem or a Secondary Gem (Uparatna) which is similar in colour to the initially recommended astrological Gem. However, since secondary Gems could be weaker in their astrological effect, one may have to increase the size of the secondary Gem. One may think that wearing a ring having several tiny chips of the same type of Gem which will give the total weight of over two or three carats could be effective. A combination as such is totally ineffective. Generally it is unimportant where the Gems are worn, as long as they feel comfortable and the Gem touches the skin. The important is the quality, colour, size and the purity. If it is a cut and polished Gem the angle of the facets and the polish can also be an issue that one may have to look at as such Gems can act like a prism and reflect the cosmic rays well.

See below for a list of all natural gems and their associated planets:

Gems are prescribed according to which planets need strengthening and it can be either according to ANUKUL-GRAHA or favourable planets, and PRATIKUL-GRAHA or unfavourable planets. The following chart shows which gems relate to the seven planets and the two lunar nodes known as Rahu and Ketu.
The first Gem in the list is the primary stone and the secondary stones can also be used, but the primary stones are preferred.

1. RUBY, red spinel, red garnet and red tourmaline (rubellite) are ruled by the Sun.

2. NATURAL PEARL, Moonstone, white coral and natural (death) ivory are ruled by the Moon.

3. RED CORAL, Carnelian and all-red bloodstone are ruled by Mars.

4. EMERALD, Tsavorite, green tourmaline, diopside, peridot and jade are ruled by Mercury.

5. YELLOW SAPPHIRE, Yellow topaz, yellow beryl (heliodor), and yellow tourmaline are ruled by Jupiter.

6. DIAMOND, White (colorless) sapphire, white topaz, zircon and colorless quartz are ruled by Venus.

7. BLUE SAPPHIRE, blue spinel, indicolite (blue tourmaline), iolite and amethyst are ruled by Saturn.

8. HESSONITE, Orange zircon, spessartite and other orange garnets are ruled by Rahu.

9. CHRYSOBERYL CAT'S EYE, Beryl, apatite, fibrolite, and tourmaline cat's eyes are ruled by Ketu.

It is true that Gems can enhance the strength of planets, provided we select the correct Gem according to the theory that has being discussed above. However, it is important to mention that the Gems alone can not give the necessary strength unless we are ready to make a change by adopting good moral values, ethical practise, loving kindness and to lead a spiritual lifestyle to give happiness to all living beings.

GEM CONFLICTS

As the Sun is incompatible with Saturn, Venus, Rahu and Ketu, Sun gems such as ruby should not be used with blue sapphire, diamond, hessonite or cat's eye.

As the Moon is incompatible with Rahu and Ketu, Moon gems such as pearl should not be used with hessonite or cat's-eye.

As Jupiter is incompatible with Mercury and Venus, Jupiter gems such as yellow sapphire should not be used with emerald or diamond.

As Rahu (Moonís north node) is incompatible with Sun and Moon, Rahu gems such as hessonite should not be used with ruby or pearl.

As Mercury is incompatible with the Moon, Mercury gems such as emerald should not be used with pearl or moonstone.

As Venus is incompatible with the Sun and Moon, diamonds and other colorless gems should not be used with rubies or pearls.

As Ketu (Moonís south node) is incompatible with Sun and Moon, cat's eye gems should not be used with rubies or pearls.

As Saturn is incompatible with Sun, Moon and Mars, Saturn gems such as blue sapphire should not be used with ruby, pearl or red coral.

As Mars is incompatible with Mercury and Saturn , Mars gems like red coral should not be used with emerald or blue sapphires.

 

Seeing Stars

Jessie Kok

Psychics, fortune-tellers, tarot card readers and astrologers… the descriptions of these people tend to border on extremes. From frauds and spin-doctors to sages and masters, what people perceive of them might be as irresolute as the predictions they make. But before you decide on which trajectory to take, read on; because one of the crafts mentioned is not as unorthodox as you think and might even have scientific relations. Jessie Kok learns more.

I am seated comfortably on a cushioned wicker chair in Dr.Theja’s study, surrounded by cream coloured walls and wooden shelves that consist of numerous books placed alongside deity idols. A highly polished, sturdy oak table rises before me, bearing division between the man I had waited for four days to meet and my somewhat surprised self. This encounter with an astrologer speaks nothing of what I had anticipated. Looking around, I fight the inclination to laugh out loud at myself after recalling my initial expectations to see a man clad in white cloth with a turban around his head, foretelling my future in a sparsely decorated house dimly lit by candles.

Dr. Theja’s abode is of the direct opposite. Upon stepping through the front door politely opened by his 18 -year old daughter Piumi, I was enveloped by the warmth and charm his place embodied. The milky white draperies and dark, wooden furnishings blended well with the creamy interior of his house and suggested taste and elegance. The temperature in the house was set to a decent degree: a certain welcome when compared to the cold and wet afternoon outside. My feet padded through the thick butter coloured carpet as his daughter led me into his study where he was on the phone. Still speaking on the line in Sinhalese, the official language of Sri Lanka where he hails from, he gestured solicitously to the wicker chair. I immediately settled down on it gratefully, thankful that there were no floor mats doubling up as seats in this room.

A light, unidentifiable lingering scent of incense tests my olfactory senses as I wait for him to complete his call. Time is not an issue here for the both of us. For a man who has experienced and seen past the human worries and troubles of the world, Dr. Theja emits an aura of calm and tranquillity even as he handles modern day gadgets designed for the busy and the impatient. His flexibility for time is amicable with mine, but the comparison is infinitely paradoxical. My lack of regard for time is because I had scheduled my entire afternoon for this exclusive interview with the reputed reticent man. He only speaks when needed, and there is absolutely no fluff in his words. Add that on to the fact that we were going to analyse my birth chart with a patient audience of one.

He is dressed in a casual but neat attire of a dark green polo shirt and camel coloured pants. A pair of thick glasses perches on his nose and his hands reach up to touch his prominent high forehead ever so occasionally, drawing attention to his crown of well groomed black hair which has gen tly receded through the years. His physique is not one of a thin yoga instructor’s as I had predicted either. The 54 year-old has a comfortable weight for his stature; very pleasing to the eye when correlated to some of the skinny anorexic looking yoga fanatics out there.

Dr. Theja greets me by my name once he is done with his call. “I am glad you could come and see me today.” He smiles benignly through his thick convex lenses as a grandfather would to a child, and I am taken by surprise at how gen ial this man can be. After all, it was only a few days ago when I learnt through his astrology website that this seemingly worldly man has achieved a PhD in mineral science from the University of Berlin in West Germany after five consecutive scholarships that saw him climb steadily in the education status ladder. He has given multiple lectures in astrology and Gemmology at the department of Mineralogy, University of Berlin and in parts of Asia like Singapore , Sri Lanka and Malaysia . The man speaks fluent German, and though the study of astrology is not his main expertise, remaining traces of suspicions are diminished when I find out that he was given the “Rudra Bhatta Award” at the 12 th Asian Astrologers Conference in India- a very major event where reputable astrologers around the world gather for the annual meeting. In light of his achievements, the address he gives himself, “Doctor”, is apparently not just for occupation purposes, since he has all the credits to verify it.

Before we begin with my astrology chart readings, Dr. Theja runs me through the complexity of astrology. According to him, astrology is unlike the other forms of predictions such as tarot card readings, clairvoyance, crystal ball fortune telling and the likes of them. “Astrology is Science,” He stresses while his gaze penetrates through his spectacles at me, pupils enlarged by the convex glasses, bringing across the inkling of irrepressible knowledge and truth. “It is the science that we use to evaluate the life of a person through the positioning of the planets in the sky using their birth dates, time and place,” he maintains.

According to him, different planets serve different purposes in influencing our lives. For example, some people may experience sleepless nights or changes in mental conditions when the full moon is up. Generally, astrologers make charts to study the lives of people, and the alignment of the planets during their birth can be deemed negative or positive. One’s personality is also determined by the planets, and the understanding of it can be applied to enhance an individual’s career and life.

Unlike psychics or tarot card readers who make use of psychological mindsets to predict the future and jargon of words to make customers feel comfortable, astrology focuses on reading the alignment of planets and how that influences the characteristics of a person to give clarity, warn or dispel worries.

Perhaps a few better-known facts about the astrology are that one born under a certain horoscope will have a typical ruler. For instance, Capricorns are ruled by Saturn- the planet that signifies determination, leadership abilities and spiritual growth. Those born under Mercury, or are associated with it, tend to have good communication skills. Making use of this knowledge, a person can choose to forage into professions such as marketing, business, lecturing or any other occupation that requires plenty of interaction.

The Sri Lankan astrologer deems visiting any reputable astrologer as identical to a visit to the doctor. “People visit an astrologer not to test him. People visit an astrologer as one would with a cardiologist.” He weighs his words soberly, speaking at andante with a foreign accent, which could have been used for an air of mystery to befuddle clients if not for the fact that he chooses to focus on the main aspects of Astrology instead of selling the peripheral.

“The cardiologist may run some tests and try to find out what is wrong with a person’s heart. But no science is 100 percent accurate. So similarly, the astrologer looks into the tendencies and gives you some idea. This is what an astrologer does.”

Having rounded off the explanation of astrology in relation to science, he turns to the divine aspect of the subject, telling me that Indian astrology is also partly God’s given wisdom to the ancient Indian seers, which is why there are not many astrologers in Australia .

“You may find in Australia , about 1500 tarot readers, psychic readers, clairvoyants, medium readers. But there are only 3 Indian astrologers in Australia .” He speaks of his practice, smiling with pride. “I am the only one in Western Australia .”

It is no wonder then that the Sri Lankan has up to 3500 number of clientele under his belt within the past four years. They come from all walks of life, from the pious and puritan Buddhists to the wealthy wives of even wealthier businessmen who lunch at the prestigious Tanglin Club in Singapore . Socialites and holy men laud him for his sanctity and respect for God while trusting his ability to use scientific explanations and give accurate judgement on matters relating to life and personalities.

The intricacies of astrology explained, he proceeds with my birth chart and lights incense stones in a tiny pot placed in front of the Indian Deity of wisdom and removal of obstacles, Ganesh. Instantly, cognition strikes my senses. The fragrance I had been trying to decipher all the while is no other than Frankincense- a gift of the Magi during the biblical times and an ancient symbol of wisdom. Dr. Theja touches the deity and utters words of prayer in total devoutness while the white smoke emanating from the pot ascends steadily, seemingly bringing his prayers and praises up to heaven. As quickly as the prayer began, it was done; and he brought out my birth charts for an in-depth analysis.

The charting of the planets during my birth was not done by hand. It was pre-entered into a computer program the day I called to schedule the interview. The planetary alignments during my birth appear on the screen to be analysed by the astrologer. Once again, I witness the fusion of modern day technology and ancient time wisdom. The computer only makes use of science to relate information to the astrologer. He has to rely on his knowledge and understanding of the planets for interpretation of the data. He does this with nondescript effort though, interpretations akin to erudition. The analysis of my chart sails past with a look into my past with interpretations such as having suffered a threatening illness once in my childhood (I was admitted into hospital at the age of four) and a family member was lost between the dates 1992- 1996 (my grandmother passed away in 1993). He also mentioned that as the sun was very close to Saturn during my birth, I would have reasonably financial success in my life. This put a very broad grin on my face, until Dr. Theja warned of achieving a balance and harmony between everything. It is pointless to have wealth when there is no health. With my stellar constellation charts however, it would be rather consistent. But until September 2005, I would face some problems until my timeline leaves moon Rahu- the cause of mental disturbances and travel, and moves into planet Jupiter, planet of spiritual growth, expansion and contentment. The journey would be smoother after that and I would find reasonable stability till I am 38 years old, whereupon Saturn would enter my life once again and my career takes off even further.

After more talk about my personality, present and future, the consultation is over. It all seems too soon though we had already spent three hours in his study. He ends off the session with a Sanskrit chant to bless my life and hugs me like a daughter before telling me I am welcomed to call him anytime. The sincerity of his words and embrace warms me up so much so that the biting air outside his house fails to sting my face.

The session was nothing like my idea of an astrology consultation. The lack of pretences and promises made his words more plausible. As I drive home from one of the most enlightening interviews I ever had, his words of wisdom that sum up the convolutions of astrology reverberates around my mind, “The best forecasts are not those that come true, but those that warn, teach and prepare to lead a happy and contented life.”

These are words of a learned man and trustable astrologer indeed.

For enquiries and more information, please call him at (61-8) 93326119 , 9332 5336 or visit his website

www.theja.com.au

E-mail: drtheja@gmail.com