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Thursday, January 23, 2025

Understanding the Grahas: Forces That Shape Our Lives.

 In Trinidad and Tobago, it’s not uncommon to hear someone say they are “going through a Graha.” This expression reflects a belief in the challenging influences of planetary forces on our lives. But what exactly is a Graha? Is it merely a source of misfortune, or does it offer deeper lessons for growth and self-awareness?

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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