Astrology is an ancient system of studying the celestial bodies in the space and how it influences our day-to-day life. This system has been a guiding force for humans for centuries and there are mainly two types of study of celestial bodies named mainly Jyotish Astrology and Western Astrology, each with its unique principles, methods, and applications. In this article, we’ll try to decode the major differences between the two, distinct features, benefits and practices etc.
Origin and History
Jyotish Astrology:
Originates from ancient India and is rooted in the Vedas, which are sacred Hindu scriptures. Also known as Jyotish and dates back over 5,000 years and has been meticulously passed down through generations.
Western Astrology:
Traces its roots to ancient Greece and Rome, although it has influences from Babylonian and Egyptian astrology. Its foundations were laid around 2,000 years ago. The modern form developed during the Renaissance and has been continuously evolving.
Major Differences Between Jyotish Astrology and Western Astrology
Let’s take a look at the major differences between the two systems of celestial study:
Zodiac Systems
When looking at both Jyotish astrology and Western astrology, one of the primary differences lies with how the zodiac system is handled and analyzed. While Vedic Astrology uses sidereal zodiac, the western astrology uses tropical zodiac. The sidereal zodiac is based on how certain celestial body positions of stars and constellations are placed. But the tropical zodiac is largely based on the position of the sun at the vernal equinox. There is a 23-degree difference between Vedic astrology and western astrology.
While both Jyotish and western astrology have both 12 zodiac signs with similar names and meanings, the dates will largely differ. For example, in western astrology you could be a fun-loving person with a Gemini sign, whereas in Vedic astrology your zodiac sign will be Taurus and could be a stubborn person.
The Houses
When it comes to dividing the houses, both Jyotish and Western Astrology believes in the Ascendant house plays a significant role in determining various aspects of our human life. While the houses are unequal in size and measured based on the longitude of the first house, in Jyotish Astrology, every house is of equal size and has a whole sign which can largely affect where your ascendant house falls.
Calendar
The calendar is entirely different in these two astrological approaches as Vedic Astrology emphasizes planetary position based on constellations using the siderail system rather than the set technique used in the Western version. The four seasons and the tropical calendar is seen as the guiding force in Western Astrology.
Planets
Western Astrology largely places its calculation based on the movement of the sun and the four seasons and is mapped around all the planets in the solar system only. But Vedic Astrology takes into account the whole galaxy and is based on the movement of the moon along with all the visible planets and its nodes.
Birth Charts
In terms of birth chart, both Jyotish Astrology and Western Astrology have significant differences between them. While in Western Astrology, the birth chart is represented by a circle with all the houses and signs depicted in a anti-clockwise manner. In Vedic Astrology birth chart, it is represented in a form a square and divided in 12 sections or houses.
Predictions
While Jyotish astrology largely is based on calculating using dashas and other aspects, Western Astrology takes into account of the sun signs and psychological interpretations for its predictions. Vedic astrology predictions largely relies on transits (Gochara) to predict changes and events by observing the current positions of planets. Employs Prashna (question astrology) to provide immediate answers to specific questions based on the current planetary positions.
Approach
Generally Jyotish Astrology is practiced mainly in India and is often used for predicting one’s future, career growth, health along with spiritual growth, self-realization and his destiny. The Vedic Astrology approach is rather fatalistic as it highlights the importance of accepting one’s circumstances. Emphasizes spiritual growth and understanding one’s life purpose through the guidance of planetary influences.
Western Astrology, while also exploring spiritual themes, focuses more on personal growth, psychological insights, and individual empowerment. It encourages individuals to take control of their lives and make choices to shape their destiny. It is less focused on spiritual or karmic elements and more on personal development and self-awareness.
Remedies
Jyotish shastra offers various remedial measures like mantras, gemstones, and rituals to mitigate planetary influences and improve one’s life. These remedies are often personalized and rooted in spiritual practices. Western Astrology tends to focus on psychological counseling and personal advice rather than remedial measures. Remedies may include lifestyle changes, therapy, self-care practices, and mindfulness techniques.
Cultural Integration
Jyotish astrology reading is deeply embedded in Indian culture and daily life, influencing decisions from marriage to career choices. Often consulted for auspicious dates and times for important events. Vedic astrology is a respected and integral part of Indian tradition and spirituality.
Whereas Western Astrology is widely accepted in Western cultures, though often seen as a form of personal guidance rather than a strict life directive. It is also used for understanding personality traits, relationship compatibility, and life trends. It has gained popularity in modern times through horoscopes and astrological readings in media and online platforms.
Conclusion
To sum it up, both Jyotish astrology and Western Astrology provide us an understanding and knowledge about the celestial bodies and how it influences our lives. While Vedic Astrology is largely based on a spiritual perspective and underlines the fact of accepting one’s circumstances and using remedial measures to improve life.Western Astrology, on the other hand, focuses on personal growth, psychological insights, and individual empowerment.
By understanding these differences, you can choose the approach that resonates with you the most or explore both systems to gain a deeper understanding of the ancient wisdom of astrology.
