What
Is a Graha According to Sage Parashara?
Sage
Parashara defines a Graha in the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra
(BPHS) as celestial entities that influence living beings on Earth. The word Graha
is derived from the Sanskrit root "grah," meaning "to
seize" or "to grasp." This reflects their ability to
"seize" or influence the mind and actions of individuals. Grahas are
not mere physical planets but carriers of divine energies that govern specific
aspects of life and karma.
The
Divine Nature of the Grahas.
Parashara
emphasizes that each Graha is an embodiment of a specific deity or cosmic
force. They act as intermediaries between humans and the divine, channelling both blessings and
challenges to guide individuals on their spiritual path.
- Surya (Sun):
Represents the soul (Atma), leadership, and vitality. Parashara
refers to the Sun as the "king of the Grahas," symbolizing
authority and the essence of life.
- Chandra (Moon):
Governs the mind (Manas), emotions, and intuition. The Moon is
considered the "Queen," reflecting nurturing and adaptability.
- Mangala (Mars):
Associated with strength, courage, and energy, Mars is often described as
the warrior among the Grahas.
- Budha (Mercury):
Governs intellect, communication, and learning. Parashara describes
Mercury as balanced and neutral, adapting to the influence of nearby Grahas.
- Guru (Jupiter):
Represents wisdom, spirituality, and expansion. Parashara highlights
Jupiter as the teacher (Guru) of the gods, bestowing blessings and
prosperity.
- Shukra (Venus):
Linked to beauty, love, and creativity. Venus is considered the teacher of
the demons, symbolizing material and sensual pleasures.
- Shani (Saturn):
Governs discipline, karma, and endurance. Saturn is described as a stern
but fair teacher, delivering the fruits of past actions.
- Rahu and Ketu:
These shadow planets are not physical bodies but mathematical points
marking the intersections of the Moon’s orbit with the ecliptic. Rahu
drives worldly desires and ambitions, while Ketu fosters spiritual growth
and detachment.
Grahas
and Karma.
Parashara
explains that the Grahas are instruments of Karma Phala (the results of
actions). Each individual’s birth chart (Janma Kundali) is a map of
their karmic blueprint. The positions of the Grahas at the time of birth
indicate the unfolding of karma and the lessons to be learned in this lifetime.
The
Grahas as Deities.
Parashara
emphasizes the spiritual nature of the Grahas, describing them as divine beings
with consciousness. According to the BPHS and other traditional Vedic texts, it
is often noted that the Grahas were instructed to influence human beings in
accordance with their karma. However, they were also given the directive to
show mercy to those who sincerely worship them. Each Graha has its own mantra and
prescribed rituals to harmonize its influence.
How
Grahas Influence Life?
Parashara
outlines how the Grahas impact different areas of life:
- Houses (Bhavas):
The placement of Grahas in specific houses reveals areas of life
influenced by their energy (e.g., health, wealth, relationships).
- Aspects (Drishti):
Each Graha casts specific Drishtis or aspects, influencing the
houses and Grahas it "sees."
- Dashas (Planetary
Periods):
Parashara's system of Vimshottari Dasha divides a person’s life
into periods ruled by different Grahas, revealing the timing of karmic
results.
Closing
Thoughts.
Parashara’s
teachings remind us that the Grahas are not arbiters of fate but divine guides.
They offer opportunities to grow, align with our dharma, and achieve
spiritual fulfilment. By understanding their energies and lessons, we can
navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and grace.
In the
next article of the Astrology series, we will delve deeper into the Graha Surya
(the Sun) and explore the profound influences it can have on various aspects of
one’s life.
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