Tajiksara Sangraha

This Jain text, titled "Tajikara Sangraha" (તાજિકસારસંગ્રહ), is a comprehensive treatise on the Tajik (or Tajak) system of astrology, a branch of Vedic astrology focused on annual horoscopes and predictive techniques. Authored by Vrundavan Maneklal Joshi (વૃંદાવન માણેકલાલ જોશી), the book was published by the author himself and is a second edition.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the text based on the provided pages:

Core Subject Matter:

• Tajik Astrology: The book primarily deals with the "Tajik" system of astrology, which is specifically used for creating and interpreting annual horoscopes (Varshaphala). This system is presented as a more detailed and nuanced method compared to the standard natal horoscope (Jatak) for understanding specific periods of a person's life.
• Mathematical and Predictive Aspects: The text covers both the mathematical calculations required for constructing annual horoscopes and the astrological interpretations (Phaladesh) of planetary positions and combinations within these charts.

Structure and Content:

The book is divided into three main chapters:

1. Ganita Adhyaya (ગણિતાધ્યાય - Chapter on Mathematics): This section focuses on the intricate calculations involved in creating a Varshaphala chart. It includes detailed explanations and examples for:

   • Determining the ingress of the Sun into the year's horoscope (Varshapravesh).
   • Calculating planetary positions (Grahasphat) for a specific year.
   • Understanding astronomical concepts like Ayana, Palabha, Charakhanda, Lankodaya, and Swadeshodaya.
   • Various methods for calculating the Lagna (Ascendant) for the annual chart.
   • Calculations related to Dreshkana, Navamsha, Panchavarga, and Dwadasavarga (different divisional charts).
   • Interpreting aspects between planets (Drishti Vichar).
   • Calculating "Saha" (specific astrological points or periods) and "Tripataaka" (a technique for analyzing periods).
   • Determining "Hinanshadasa" (a system of planetary periods).

2. Bhava Adhyaya (ભાવાધ્યાય - Chapter on Houses/Consequences): This chapter provides the predictive interpretations of planets when they are placed in different houses (Bhava) of the annual horoscope. It offers detailed readings for the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu in each of the twelve houses.

3. Phala Adhyaya (ફળાધ્યાય - Chapter on Predictions): This is the concluding section that delves deeper into predictive interpretations. It covers:

   • Determining the "Varsha" (Year) Lord and its implications.
   • Interpreting the results of planets placed in specific houses within the annual chart.
   • Detailed analysis of "Muntha" (a key indicator in Tajik astrology) and its lordship.
   • Discussions on yogas (astrological combinations), including Arishta (afflictions) and their remedies (Arishta Bhanga).
   • Predictions related to specific periods of the year (Masa) and days (Dina).

Key Features Highlighted:

• Gujarati Commentary and Examples: The book features a "Shuddha Gujarati Teeka" (pure Gujarati commentary) and clear examples, making the complex astrological principles accessible to Gujarati readers.
• Comprehensive Nature: The author emphasizes that this single book provides complete knowledge of Tajik astrology, covering both mathematics and predictions, eliminating the need for other references.
• Dedication: The book is dedicated to the author's guru, Jyotirvibhushan Joshi Dalsukram Hirabhai, acknowledging his guidance and inspiration.
• Historical Context: The introduction touches upon the origins of Tajik astrology, tracing it back to Yavnacharya and citing prominent Tajik texts like "Tajik Nilkanthi," "Tajik Kaustubh," and "Tajik Bhushan."
• Second Edition: The preface to the second edition indicates that the book has been well-received and updated with additional details on mathematical explanations, twelve-house significations, and specific predictive aspects like Masesha (monthly lord) interpretations.
• Expert Endorsements: The presence of multiple testimonials (Abhipraya Patra) from respected scholars and astrologers of the time (e.g., Vishnu Shastri, Badarinath Trimbaknath Shastri, Vallabharam Sharma Shastri) highlights the book's authority and utility.

Overall Significance:

"Tajikara Sangraha" by Vrundavan Maneklal Joshi is a valuable resource for understanding and practicing Tajik astrology in Gujarati. It aims to demystify the system by providing clear explanations, practical examples, and comprehensive interpretations, making it a significant contribution to astrological literature in the region. The book is presented as a self-contained guide for students and enthusiasts of astrology.