Astrology has a long and rich history in India, with origins dating back thousands of years. While the exact beginnings are unclear, evidence suggests astrology was being practiced in the Indian subcontinent since at least the Vedic period, making it one of the oldest astrological traditions in the world.
Vedic Astrology
The earliest origins of Indian astrology can be traced back to the Vedic period, from 1700 BCE to 500 BCE. The Vedas, ancient scriptures of Hinduism, contain many references to astronomical phenomena and astrological practices.
For example, the Rig Veda, believed to be composed between 1700 and 1100 BCE, contains sections devoted to predicting auspicious times based on the motions of the sun, moon, planets, and stars. Other Vedic texts like the Atharvaveda and Shatapatha Brahmana also demonstrate significant astrological development during this period.
Early Texts on Jyotish Astrology
The term Jyotish, meaning “science of celestial bodies”, was first used to describe Indian astrology during the Vedic era. Some of the earliest texts devoted specifically to Jyotish astrological practices include:
- Vedanga Jyotisha – Compiled between 1300-1000 BCE, this is considered the earliest text on Vedic astronomy and astrology. It introduced key astrological concepts and mathematical calculations.
- Yavanajataka – Written in 269 CE, this text combined Hellenistic astrology from Greece with earlier Hindu astrology. It is one of the foundational works of Indian astrology.
- Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra – Composed around 400 CE by the sage Parashara, this is considered the authoritative text on traditional Jyotish astrology. It documented a wide range of astrological concepts, computations, and divination techniques.
Astrology Under Various Indian Empires
Throughout ancient Indian history, Jyotish astrology continued to develop and spread in influence under various empires and dynasties:
- During the Maurya Empire between 322-185 BCE, Jyotish became more established as a respected field of study.
- The Gupta Empire from 320-550 CE saw advancements in mathematical astronomy used to calculate planetary positions. The Aryabhata system emerged during this period.
- Under the Delhi Sultanate from 1206-1526 CE, observatories were constructed to study the heavens and produce calendars, almanacs, and astrological tables.
- The Mughal Empire from 1526-1857 CE employed many astrologers, who influenced everything from state affairs to medical practices through their readings and predictions.
Astrology in Medieval and Colonial India
As various schools formed around Jyotish astrology, substantial development continued in the medieval and colonial periods:
- From the late first millennium CE, new commentaries expanded upon classical works as Indian astrology diversified. Different regional schools emerged.
- Under Islamic rule starting in the 13th century, Persian and Arabic astrological techniques blended with earlier Indian traditions.
- During the British colonial period in the 18th and 19th centuries, interest grew in integrating Western astronomical models into Indian astrology, referred to as Siddhantic astrology.
- In the early 20th century, a Hindu astrological renaissance occurred leading to the establishment of new institutes teaching Jyotish principles.
Modern Astrology in India
Today, astrology remains an important part of both Hindu religious traditions and popular belief across Indian culture.
-astrological almanacs and horoscopes are still widely published and consulted, especially for important occasions like marriages or new business ventures
-Indian newspapers regularly print astrological forecasts and columns
-astrologers are routinely consulted by people from all walks of life looking for auspicious timing or life guidance
-Indian astrology continues to evolve as both a cultural tradition and technical field of study
With a history going back over 3000 years, astrology remains deeply woven into the fabric of Indian civilization. From its origins in the Vedas to its practice at all levels of society today, Indian astrology has an unbroken lineage that makes it a unique and vibrant tradition.
References
Pandit, Bansi. A History of Indian Astrology: The Study of Their Status and Practice Through the Ages. New Delhi: Anamika Publishers, 2001.
Kochhar, Rajesh. The Vedic People: Their History and Geography. Hyderabad: Orient Longman, 2000.
Pingree, David. “The Mesopotamian Origin of Early Indian Mathematical Astronomy.” Journal of the History of Astronomy 4 (1973): 1-12.
Mak, Bill M. “Writing and Computation in Indian Astronomy.” History of Science 37 (1999): 1-58.
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