Jain Jyotisha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain Jyotisha text by Karuna Shah:

The book "Jain Jyotisha" by Karuna Shah explores the science of Jain astrology, presenting it as a distinct and valuable field of knowledge that can lead to fulfillment and well-being. The author acknowledges that astrology is a subject of varied opinions, with some dismissing it entirely and others holding distorted views.

Core Concepts of Jain Astrology:

• Cosmic Basis: Jain astrology's foundation is in the cosmos, which they refer to as "Khagolshastra" (astronomy). While Eastern and Western astronomical views differ, Jainism offers its own unique perspective.
• Jyotisha Elements: The primary elements of Jyotisha are the Sun, Moon, planets, constellations (Nakshatras), and stars. The Moon is considered the most superior, followed by the Sun. The Sun and Moon are seen as "Indras" (chief deities), and the planets and Nakshatras are their families.
  • There are 88 planets and 28 Nakshatras. Stars are countless, numbering in the crores.
  • The text describes multiple Suns and Moons across different cosmic regions, such as Jambudvipa (two each), Lavana Sea (four each), and half of the continent (Adhai Dweep) having 132 of each.
  • These celestial bodies are constantly in motion, orbiting Mount Meru. Time calculation is based on this "moving astrology."
• Influence and Causality: Jain astrology posits that celestial bodies hold a role in auspicious and inauspicious events. While some believe astrology is merely indicative, Jain thought suggests that the entry of planets into specific Nakshatras, causing changes, is essential for worldly events to occur. Without these cosmic shifts, no event could manifest. Therefore, astrology emits rays that influence the world's climate and human affairs, acting as a divine element.
• Mathematical Foundation: Mathematics is the bedrock of astrology. The validity of any mathematical method in astrology is determined by the accuracy of its results.
• The Role of Stars and Nakshatras: Western astrology places significant importance on stars. They believe that the clusters of stars surrounding a Nakshatra influence it, defining its characteristics. Stars are self-luminous, and planets are also illuminated.
  • An example is given of the star cluster "Anteras" near the Nakshatra "Jyeshtha" (in the Scorpio sign). The influence of stars on Jyeshtha, particularly their subtle degrees (75.54'), can affect an individual's life. If malefic planets like Saturn are in the eighth house of this sign, it can indicate a fear of snake bites.
  • The text praises Western advancements in this area and emphasizes the need for Jain astrological scriptures to incorporate modern astronomical findings.
• New Discoveries and Planetary Effects: The discovery of new planets like Herschel and Neptune, described as highly explosive and slow-moving, is mentioned. Their conjunctions with faster-moving planets like the Moon, Sun, Mercury, and Venus have visible astrological effects.
• The Panchang (Almanac): The Panchang is considered the main gateway to understanding astrology. It consists of five components:
  • Tithi: Lunar day.
  • Vaar: Day of the week.
  • Nakshatra: Lunar mansion.
  • Yoga: Astrological combination.
  • Karana: Half of a Tithi.
• Branches of Astrology: Beyond the Panchang, there are two major streams:
  • Jatak Jyotisha (Natal Astrology): This branch involves intricate calculations that can take up to a year for a single horoscope. Accurate Panchang, Dashavarga charts, planetary strengths, house arrangements, and planetary periods (Dasha/Antardasha) are crucial for correct predictive astrology.
  • Phalit Jyotisha (Predictive Astrology): This is where the results of the natal calculations are interpreted. The author notes that differing interpretations of the same horoscope can lead to a decline in public faith in astrology.
• Muhurta Shastra (Electional Astrology): This branch is used to determine auspicious timings for events, believed to make life's path smoother and avert calamities.
• Jain Agamas and Jyotisha: Jainism's scriptures (Agamas) contain systematic discussions on astrology. Specific Agamas like "Surya Prajñapti" and "Jyotisha Karandaka" are dedicated to celestial astrology. However, the tradition of guru-disciple transmission and knowledgeable ascetics is diminishing, making ancient astrological knowledge less accessible.
• Historical Texts: The text mentions "Vedanga Jyotisha," a concise yet significant astronomical text that required extensive effort from scholars to understand. Many great Jain acharyas have also authored important astrological works.
• Jain Approach to Worldly Pursuits: Jainism categorizes worldly activities into self-centered and world-centered. While ordinary beings are focused on the latter, Jainism aims to reduce worldly attachments. Therefore, Jain acharyas who adhere to the path of renunciation generally do not utilize astrology for material benefit.
• Notable Muhurta Texts: Several texts on Muhurta Shastra are mentioned, including "Muhurta Martanda," "Muhurta Chintamani," and "Piyushdhara," along with astrological mathematics.
• Universal Presence of Astrology: Astrology is present globally, with Western regions having esteemed "Rafial Almanac" (Ephemeris), although it's becoming harder to find.
• Human Desire for Foresight: Humans have an inherent curiosity about the past and future. When predictions prove accurate, faith in astrology grows.
• The Samhita Texts: These are well-regarded for predictive astrology.
• An Anecdote Illustrating Astrological Power: A story is shared where a king tests an astrologer by asking what he will eat. The astrologer writes a prediction, and it accurately states that the king would eat Khichdi in the evening, even after a disrupted day.
• Three Pillars of Astrology: Astrology comprises three main branches: Siddhanta (astronomical principles), Samhita (mundane astrology), and Hora (natal astrology). Texts like "Shatpanchalika" and "Prashna Bhairav" are relevant to the Prashna (horary astrology) branch.
• Astrology as the "Eye": Astrology is referred to as the "eye" that guides one. Muhurta is the "lamp." Combining the eye and the lamp signifies intelligent progress.
• Planetary Influence and Karma: The text discusses how different nations are influenced by various powers, just as planets have their positions and influence. It emphasizes that humans must experience the fruits of their past actions (Prarabdha Karma). Present efforts shape future Prarabdha.
• The Role of Consciousness: Planets themselves do not cause happiness or sorrow; these arise from our own thoughts and consciousness. Our mental state is considered our birth chart. If our mental tendencies are controlled, planets will align favorably. The key to worldly happiness and peace lies in controlling one's mental disposition.
• The Importance of Auspicious Timings: Even great souls face obstacles, and auspicious tasks can encounter hindrances. Therefore, performing any action at an auspicious moment (Muhurta) is crucial. Astrology provides this guidance.
• Jyotisha as Illumination: Astrology is described as light that reveals a person's destiny.
• The Need for a Guru: To understand the vast and profound science of astrology, the guidance of a Sadguru and the Guru-Shishya parampara are necessary.
• Evolving Knowledge: Astrology is not static; new discoveries and theories are constantly emerging.
• Medical Astrology: The text mentions the growing prevalence of medical astrology, where doctors use birth charts to diagnose and treat diseases.
• Concluding Thought: The author reiterates that destiny (Prarabdha) is unchangeable but emphasizes the importance of performing actions without attachment to their results ("Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana"). True devotion, like offering the best to Jinendra (Jain Tirthankaras), extends to pursuing the most excellent knowledge, including astrology.