Nakshatras and the Cycle of Life

There are 27 nakshatras in vedic astrology. They start with Ashwini and end with Revati. The characteristics allude to a correlation between the nakshatras and the cycle of life.

Ashwini to Krittika

Ashwini represents energy and conception. The Ashwini Kumaras are the celestial doctors. Life starts out as energy and the doctors are the first ones we consult with when we start the cycle of life.

Bharani represents gestation with the symbol of a vulva. This nakshatra represents the transformation of energy into matter.

Krittika indicates birth. The symbol is a razor, which is used to separate the child from the mother, thereby bringing the child into the world.

So, the first three nakshatras cover conception, gestation, and birth.

Rohini to Ardra

Rohini to Ardra cover birth to school going age. Every new born is beautiful, symbolized by Rohini. Brahma the creator is the deity for Rohini, further reinforcing the idea of growth and creation.

A baby is tender, nervous, and fidgety; all characteristics of Mrigashira. Mrigashira also represents change and babies change every day.

The symbol for Ardra is a teardrop. This is apt for toddlers and kids before they go to school. There is a lot of crying and frustration for the child and the parents.

Punarvasu to Ashlesha

Punarvasu introduces the child to its first teachers. The child is receptive and ready to soak in all knowledge. The child is unbound by any preconceived notions and free to learn from the teachers.

Pushya covers the second half of the child’s education. It represents nourishing and growth. The child is introduced to gurus and people of importance like aristocrats and ministers. The symbol of the udder indicates the abundance of knowledge the child acquires during this phase.

Lastly, Ashlesha represents the culmination of the child’s education. This is an important gate in the cycle of life where the young man or woman decides their path in life. They could use their wisdom and insight to go down the path of righteousness or use deceit and secrecy to take the opposite path. The coiled serpent represents the amazing potential of the individual.

Therefore, Punarvasu to Ashlesha cover education through graduation.

Magha to Uttaraphalguni

Ashlesha completes the first cycle of nine nakshatras covering four rashis. Magha starts the next cycle. Magha’s symbol is a throne, representing the responsibilities we take on. Therefore, with Magha the individual starts their career.

The next step after starting ones career is typically marriage. Purvaphalguni and Uttaraphalguni, both relate to marriage and sensual enjoyment. Purvaphalguni, being the first, represents marriage. Uttaraphalguni represents the pleasures from marriage.

Therefore, Magha to Uttaraphalguni capture start of career and marriage.

Hasta to Swati

Hasta to Swati represent the early part of adult life. In Hasta the individual is a follower and performs repetitive tasks. In Chitra, the individual engages in hobbies like art, reading, and thinking. Finally, in Swati the individual learns from higher ups at work and is influenced by people they interact with.

Vishakha to Jyeshta

At this point, the individual wants to achievement at work and want to make a name for themselves. Vishakha instills the desire to be successful. In this nakshatra, the individual is focused, courageous, and aggressive.

To be successful, however, you need the help of friends. In Anuradha, the individual learns this valuable lesson. The person is still goal oriented, but willing to work with others to achieve their goals. Here the individual leads and manages organizations by working with others.

Finally, Jyeshta marks the achievement of the career goals and fame that comes with that achievement. Jyeshta also marks the end of the second cycle and at this point the individual is at the height of his or her career.

Moola to Uttaraashadha

Moola is the start of the last cycle of nine nakshatras. The symbol of a knot indicates the state of the individual’s mind at this stage in life. The person has reached the highest level possible in their career and is thinking of the next step. At this stage individuals face health issues and deal with aging parents. There is also demand from their children. All this makes for a tough time where people feel bounded and are overwhelmed by their responsibilities.

In Purvaashadha, there is a strong desire to improve the situation. The person starts winnowing the important things from their basket of responsibilities. In Uttaraashadha, the individual is successful and starts a new beginning. This is typically, the point where children have left the house and aging parents have passed away.

Shravana to Shatabhisha

In Shravana, there is an interest to hear traditional knowledge, be charitable, and start the path of inquiry. In Dhanishta, the person is optimistic and ambitious about the new beginnings in their life. Finally, in Shatabhisha there is a desire to prefer solitude and reflect upon life.

Purvabhadrapadha to Revati

This is the last triad of nakshatras. At this point, the major portion of life is over. Diseases and illness takes sway and the individual prepares for death. The symbol for purvabhadrapadha and uttarabhadraphadha is a funeral cot. In these two nakshatras there can be frustration and anger towards life as well.

Finally in Revati, you are ready for your journey into the next life. The deity for Revati is Pushan, the god that oversees safe travels. This nakshatra is also related to time indicating the end of one cycle and the beginning of the next.

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