1. Prasna marga Vol 1

B V Raman Series

PRASNA

MARGA

Part One

B. V. Raman

PRASNA MARGA

English Translation with Original Text in Devanagari and Notes by BANGALORE VENKATA RAMAN Editor: The Astrological Magazine

PART I [Chapters I to XVI]

MOTILAL BANARSIDASS PUBLISHERS PVT. LTD. DELHI

First Edition: Bangalore, 1980 Second Edition: Delhi, 1991

Copyright Dr. B.V. Raman, 1991 All rights reserved

ISBN: 81-208-0914-9 ISBN: 81-208-0918-1

Also available at: MOTILAL BANARSIDASS 41 U.A., Bungalow Road, Jawahar Nagar, Delhi 110 007 120 Royapettah High Road, Mylapore, Madras 600 004 16 St. Mark's Road, Bangalore 560 001 Ashok Rajpath, Patna 800 004 Chowk, Varanási 221 001

PRINTED IN INDIA BY JAINENDRA PRAKASH JAIN AT SHRI JAINENDRA PRESS, A-45 NARAINA INDUSTRIAL AREA, PHASE 1, NEW DELHI 110 028 AND PUBLISHED BY NARENDRA PRAKASH JAIN FOR MOTILAL BANARSIDASS PUBLISHERS PVT. LTD., BUNGALOW ROAD, JAWAHAR NAGAR, DELHI 110 007

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1 Page 1. Prayer 1 ... 2. Wbat Astrology Comprehends 3 ... 3. Who can study Astrology ? 7

4. Qualifications of an Astrologer 11 5. Different Kinds of Ganitha 14 6. The Five Siddhanthas 16 7. Beginning the Study of Astrology 17 8. Importance of Varaba Mibira 19 9. Role of Horoscopy and Horary 23 ... 10. Importance of Muhurtha 25 11. Similarity between Prasna and Jataka 28 ...

CHAPTER II 12. Procedure for the Astrologer 30 13. Procedure for the Querist 32 14. Procedure for Arudha 34 15. Things to be noted at Query Time 36 ... 16. Method of Reading the Results 37 ... 17. Indications for Success 39 ... 18. The Time Factor 45 ... 19. The Place Factor 48 ... 20. Examination of Breath 50 ... 21. The Touch Analysed ... 67 22. Sign occupied by the Querist ... 73 23. Direction occupied by the Querist ... 83

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24. Pranakshara 84 25. The Querist's Bearing 91 26. The Querist's Behaviour Pattern ... 93 27. The Querist's Mood 96 28. Dress and Garments 97 29. Some Peculiar Lakshanas 98 30. Omens or Tatkala Lakshanas ... 98

CHAPTER III

31. The Astrologer's Departure 108 32. Omens on the Way 109 33. Indicative Signs while entering the House 121

CHAPTER IV

34. Conducting the Prasna 125 36. . Preparation 125 ... 37. The Lamp and the Flame 127 38. Drawing the Circle or Chart 132 39. Nature of the Chart 134 40. How the Priest Draws the Chakra 134 41. Behaviour of the Agent 137 42. Invocation to the Lord 141 43. Worshipping the Planets 142 44. Placing the Gold Piece 142 45. Sankalpa 144 46. Ashtamangalam 145 47. Determining the Arudha Rasi 146 48. Thing to be Noted 148 ... 49. Conclusion 149 ...

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CHAPTER V

50. Time of Query 150 51. Calculation of Lagna 150 52. Correction by Kunda 153

53 The Moon's Longitude 154 54. Position of Guliks 159 55. Thrisphu'a 162 56. Prana and Deha 163 57. The Death Circle 170 58. Planetary Longitudes 175 59. Arudha Position 176

CHAPTER VI

60. The Five Sutras 177

61 Diagnosing Iilness 181 62. Results of Sutras 182 63. Sutras and the Bhutas 183 64. The Time Factor 184 65. The Three Sutras 185 66. Sigoificance of Thrisphutas 188

67. Thrisphuta Indicative of Death 189

68. Beginning of Diseases ... 193 Thrisphuta Naksbatra 195 70. Thrispbuta Dasa 69. 206

CHAPTER VII

71. Ashtamangalam 209 72. Results of the Sun and other Planets 211 73. Effects of ' Dhwajas', etc. 213

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74. Antmal Symbols 215 75. Panchabhuta Effects 217 76. Reckoning of Lunsr Day, etc. 218 77. Resuits of Thithi, etc. 219 78. Niryana Saturn 220

CHAPTER VIII

79. Effects of Arudha 230 80. Avastbas ... 23€ 81. Diseases and Arudha 235 82. Arudha Navamsa 238 83. Planets and Vegetables 240 84. Urdhwamukha and other Signs 241 85. Significance of Gold Piece 245 86. Effects of Lagna 250 87. Effects of Prana and Deha 252 88. Rahu Chakra 256 ... 89. Amazing Predictions 256 90. Significance of Chandra Navamsa 257

CHAPTER IX

91. Recapitulation 261 92. Examination of Age 262 93. Mrityu Lakshana 266 94. Determining the Length of Life 268 95. Lagna and Arudba 272 96. Chatra Rasi 275 97. Signs of Long Life 277 ... 98 Longevity from Birth Chart 279 ...

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99. Yogas and Longevity 281 100. Long Life Again 286 101. Short Life 288

CHAPTER X

102. Timing Death 292 ... 103. Evil Periods 296 ... 104. Kala-Chakra Dasas ... 297 105. Niryana Saturn 299 106. Niryana Jupiter 302 107. Niryana Sun 304 ... 108. Niryana Moon ... 305 109. Pramana Gulika 306 .... 110. Death as read by the Planets ... 309 111. Death Dealing Ascendant 316 ... 112. Time of Death as from Prasna ... 318 113. Planetary Positions at Death ... 329

CHAPTER XI

114. Causes of Death 332 115. Nature of Death 341 116 Cause of Death According to Prasna 345 117. Place of Death 355

CHAPTER XII

118. Diseases and Their Cause 356 119 Types of Diseases 365 ... 120. Symptoms of Madness ... 371 121. Symptoms for Epilepsy 378 ... 122. Treatment for Epilepsy ... 381

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Page 123. Aberration of Mind 384 124. Combinations for Diabetes 384 125. Diseases indicated by Planats 385 126. Combinations for Diseases 391

CHAPTER XIII

127. Beginning and Ending of Diseases 397 128. Direction of Beginuing of Disease 399 129. Recovery 407 130. Causes of Diseases 414 131. Remedial Measures 416 132 Mrityunjaya Homa 417 ....

CHAPTER XIV

133. Fixing the Person's Age 420 ... 134. Significations of Bhavas 422 135 Bhava Significatlons in Prasna Chart 426 136. External and Internal Bhavas 429 137. How Bhavas are Ruined 433 138. Karakas or Significators 438 139 Fructification of Bhavas 441 140. Favourable and Uufavourable Houses 441 141. When Bhavas are Ruined 448 142. Effects of Planets in Houses 449 143. Effects of Gulika 457 144. Effects of Tertiary Planets 459 145. Time when Bhavas Fructify 464 146. Favourable and Unfavourable Positions of Planets 472 147. Categories of Karma 480

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148. Imprisonment or Captivity 486 149. Quarrels and Misunderstandings 492 150. Visible and Invisible Hemispheres 493

CHAPTER XV

151. Favourable and Unfavourable Karma 496 152. Afilictions due to Deity 499 153. Palliatives for Afilictions 502 154. Misappropriation of Deity's Property 507 155. Nature of Misappropriated Property 507 156. Intensity of Deity's Wrath 511 157. Anger of Serpent God 513 158. Parental Curses 517 159. Curse of Elders 519 160. Trouble from Ghosts 519 161. Remedial Measures 524 162. Evil Eye 525 163. Cause of Evil Eye 527 164. Places of Attack 528 165. Names of Spirits Causing Evil Eye 529 166. Categories of Spirits 530 167. How to Distinguish Spirits 531 168. Planets Favouring Spirits 543 169. Houses of Harm 545 170. Ascertaining the "Drishti Badha 546 171 Place of Attack 550 172. Evil Arising from Words 552 173. Bala-Graha Affliction 553 174. Food Poisoning 553

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Page 175. Troubles from Enemies 554 ... 176. Nature of Trouble ... 556 177. Who is the Enemy ? 557 ... 178. Enemy's Motive 562 ... 179. Identifying the Enemy ... 565 180. Means Adopted by Enemics ... 567 181. Where the Kshudra is Kept 568 182 Containers Used 569 ... 183 Another View 571 ... 184. Removing the Mababhichara ... 575 185. Different Kinds of Devatas 578 186. Who should Perform Remedies ... 589

CHAPTER XVI

187. Whereabouts of the Querist 593 188. Success Over Enemies 595 189. Bright and Dark Future 596 190 Means to Adopt 598 191. Locating a Treasure Trove 599 192. Nature of Persons met with on the Way ... 601 193. Characteristics of Bride and Bridegroom 602 194. Rulers of Different Parts of Day 605 195. Characteristics due to Five Elements 608 196. Laksbanas Given in other Works 612 197. Danger to the House ... 613 198. Loss of Metals 614 199. Interpreting First Letter of Query 616 200. Predicting by Betel Leaves 618 201. Acquisition of Elephants 622

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202. Indications for Sickness 623 203. Performing Obsequies 637 204. Happiness and Sorrow to Parents 632 205. Afflictions to Residence 634 206. Avakahada System 634 207. Becoming the Head 639 208. Kalachakra or Time Cycle 642 209. S'ar Positions in Kalachakra 643 210. Position of Yogini 646 211. Calculating the Yogini 647 212. Features of Yogini 654 213. Movements of Yogini on Weekdays 655 214. Longitudes of Yogini and Mrityu 658 215. Movement of Mrityu 661 216. Yogini Movement Vis a-Vis Lunar Days 665 217. Hell and Heaven 668 218. Sigas of Krita YngaEtc. 670 219. Conclusion 672 220. Appendices 673 221. Index of Technical Terms 681 222. Samscrit Errata 708

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PREFACE TO SECOND EDITION

The first edition published in 1980 has been out of print for the past six years. Due to my other literary commitments, publishing the second edition had to be delayed, though there was great demand for the book. It is my hope that this new edition will aid both the students and savants of astrology in their studies and researches and contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of the novel methods of horoscopic interpretation presented in these pages. Thanks are due to the well-known publishers Motilal Banarsidass for having brought out this edition attractively.

Bangalore 29-4-1991 B.V. RAMAN

PREFACE

It is with justifiable feelings of pride and humility that I present herewith an English translation of Prasna Marga (Part I) a celebrated work on astrology largely in use in Kerala. The idea to bring out an English edition of Prasna Marga hrst occurred to me in 1040. This was largely due to the persuasion of ene Mr. P. G. Subrahmanya Iyer, then working as an assistant in my office. Mr. Iyer was well versed in astrology besides being a scholar in Sanskrit and Malayalam. With his belp and co operation a rough or tentative translation was made and the matter left there. For health reasons, Mr lyer had to relinquish the job in my office and return to his native land. I feel indebted to Mr. Iyer for the initial help given to me. I should say that the period between 1942 and 1962 was perhaps the most creative part of my life as it was during these years that the greater part of my intellectual productions in the shape of books were made available to the public. It was again during these years that I was busy building up THF ASTROLOGICAL MAGAZINE, organising research work etc. Hence It was only in 1964-65 that the translation of Prasna Marga could be completely revised and re-written with copious notes and illustrations. But for various reasons the manuscript had to be again kept in cold storage. In 1977, thanks to the persuasion of my son B. A. Kumar Babu and daughter Gayatri Devi Vasudev, I took up the

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final revision of Part I and completed the notes and the manuscript was made ready for the press I do not claim infallibility. Some of the stanzas may not have been correctly translated or a meaning given which may not have been intended by the original author. I am therefore open to correction . It is hoped that the book will be received with the same warmth by my indulgent readers as all my other publications have been received by them. Each part of this great work is self-contained and can be used without refereuce to the other. Hence one need not have the apprebension that in the absence of Part II, Part I may not be useful. Though the title Prasna Marga suggests that the book deals with Prasna or horary astrology, I have to make it clear that the text gives equally valuable information bear- ing on natal astrology which ca ybe used with advantage. The translation of Part II (Adhvavas 17 to 32) is also ready and I hope to bring it out in 1981. In bringing the book to its final shane, considerable assistance has been given to me by my daughter Gayatri Devi Vasudev aad I must record my appreciation of this help. My special thanks are due to my esteemed friend and colleague Dr. P. S Sastri who has kindly prepared 'An Index of Technical Terms'. I have also to thank Prof. M. R. Bhat and late Mr. L. Narsin Rao for their helpful hints and my sons B. Niranjan Babu and B. Sachidananda Babu whu have been of much help to me in proof-corrections etc. I must put on record the helpful attitude that is being displayed by my esteemed friends P. N. Kamat and B. K. Anantharam of IBH Prakashana in coming forward to publish this bock.

Bangalore. B. V. RAMAN. 11-8-1980.

INTRODUCTION

To the ancient astrological literature of the Hindus traced to Sage Parasara there belong a certain number of complementary works without whose assistance, the student of astrology may not be able to understand the deeper implications of the subject. Prasna Marga may be consi- dered as one such work. It is an exhaustive treatise on the various aspects of Prasna or Horary astrology. This work can be considered as of exceptional interest and value. The authorship of the work is attributed to a Namboo- diri Brahmin of Kerala, written in Kollam 825 (1649 AD)in a place called Edakad near Talasseri. It appears that at that time our author bad an opponent by name Easwara Deekshita living in Chola country. Another great disciple of the author was Mochhattiloyit, a well-known personality in Kerala in those days. Kerala Varma was also a great astrologer. Kerala Varma's disciple Punnasseri Nambi Neelakanta Sarma wrote a commentary in Sanskrit. And in rendering the work into Eoglish reliance has been placed on this commentary. Unfortunately the Sanskrit commentary is available only for the first part consisting of sixteen chapters. As regards the nature and value of the work, the author appears to have been a renowned scholar and has

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culled information from a number of ancient sources though his favourite works appear to be Brihat Jataka and Krishneeya. The topic of the work, though called Prasna Marga, covers almost the entire range of the subject: Jataka or predictive astrology, muhurtha or electional astrology, pari- hara or remedial astrology and nimittas or the science of omens.

Here we have essentially a work that touches on some of the most important aspects of life-longevity, death, disease etc. The value of the work is unmistakable. It not only endorses the ancient principles of astrology but also extends beyond by giving methods which are not to be found even in such celebrated books as Brihat Jataka. The English translation presented herewith, as in the case of my other translations, is not word for word. It is more or less a summary of the stanzas as I have been able to understand, sometimes with the assistance of Pandits who are well acquainted with this work. It is possible my explantation may not render the intended meaning of the author. I can only crave the indulgence of my readers for any such short comings. Though Punnasseri Neelakanta Sharma's Sanskrit text has been generally followed a manuscript traced at the Oriental Library, Madras, has also been made use of. Some verses in the former have been omitted and some in the latter included As earlier indicated the author of Prasna Marga appears to have been a scholar of exceptional merits not only in different aspects of astrology proper but also in such

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collateral subjects as omens and mantra sastra. Diagnosing from the horoscope the nature of disease and the "spirits" responsible, and prescription of remedies are an important aspect of Prasna Marga. Today some " men of science" may smile at the author's tracing different types of insanity to "possession" by evil spirits. To rid the world of mental illness is surely the most ancient aspiration. In this our author is not alone. Some of the western thinkers have started believing in ghosts, possession etc., as causing abnormal behaviour as the various therapies employed by neuro surgeons cannot be the answer to a fight against insanity. It is on record that many persons suffering from such mental troubles (some of them seemingly incurable) have been helped by mantra sastra. According to ancient thought, whatever be the modern jargon-schizophrenia, catatonia, dissociation, paranoia, reactive and endogenous depression, melancholia, maniac depressive psychosis-insanity is caused not only by organic factors but also by 'spirits' or disincarnate beings. All the modern medical magic has not been found enough to cure insanity. Hence the ancient teachings cannot be ignored as out of date. The first part has 16 chapters and the total number of slokas is 1283. I shall deal briefly with the contents. Chapter One begins with an introduction to Astrology, its branches, and who may study the science with success. The author tells us what type of karma is indicated by the birth-chart and Prasna chart under different circumstances. How an astrologer should begin his day by prayer and what all he should note in any person who approaches him

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with a problem forms the crux of Chapter Two. The directions indicated by different signs and use of Arudha Lagna are explained. Answers are to be given according to Sutra, Thrisphuta, Ashtamangala and Suvarnavastha. Muhurtas, favourable and unfavourable for queries, are also mentioned. It also shows how omens, breath-variations and avastha or the mental state of the astrologer are used in answering queries. Sparsa or the part of the body touched by a querent comes in for discussion. The persons or objects encountered on the way to an astrologer, through direction, the first syllable uttered, the way he stands, or the object with him are all dealt with in this chapter. Facial expressions and the sight of certain creatures in interpreting prasna form the rest of the chapter.

Kala Hora and the significance of the different quarters (east, south-east, south, south-west, west, north-west, north and north-east) occupied by the Sun during his passage across the sky; the indications of omens appearing in these quarters; are all discussed in Chapter Three.

Details for conducting Prasnakriya are explained in the next chapter. A lighted Lamp a Rasi Chakra, flowers, gold pieces, betel leaves and nuts, fruits and other similar articles are necessary for divining the future. The lamp plays a very significant role. The shape, the size and depth of the flame, the oil and its quality, the wick and its quality as well as the container are all taken into account before coming to any conclusion. Next comes the Rasi Chakra. The thickness or otherwise of the lines constitu- ting the chakra and ar y articles found in it are also indi- cative of results. Again there is some elaboration on

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'sparsa' or the thing touched by the querent and different gestures as denoting different results. The manner in which the astrol ger must next pray and invoke Gcd, Guru and the planets is outlined. After that. predictions are to be made on the basis of rules enumerated in the pre vious chapters.

Chapter Five deals with determining various factors which are necessary in making predictions. Without the correct rising sign, no prediction can be made. It shows how the Lagna Sphuta using the shadow-method, and the Chandra Sphuta are to be found out. These methods bearing on astrencmical calculaticns are not in vogue any more and they may be ignored. Determination of Trisphuta, Chatus phuta, Pranasphuta and other sphutas such as Mrityu and Kalasphutas, Mrityu Rasi and Mrityu Chakras form the rest of the chapter. It also shows how the Arudhasphuta is to be calculated.

How the different Sutras become Jeeva, Roga or Mrityu depending upon the disposition of the Arudha Lagna is explained in Chapter Six. Jeeva, Roga and Mrityu are capable of giving different results. Nakshatra and Adhi pathi Sutras refer to the present. Samanya Sutra refers to the past. Amsaka and Maha Sutras refer to the future. The whole chart of a querent with reference to Trisphuta, Dasas, Antardasas and Duta Lakshana must all be carefully assessed. Different results are attributed to Trisputas falling in different signs and Navamsas. The results vary with reference to Nakshatras also. There are enumerated certain Nakshatras which when they coincide with Tri- sphuta indicate death. Chapter six limits the period of

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prognostication to one year which contains all the Dasas in proportion to their Vimshottari duration

How the science of a Sankhya or numbers can be applied to Horary Astrology, is beautifully detailed in Chapter Seven. The 3 digits of a root number starting with the unit number pertain in a reverse order respectively to the future, the present and the past. The eight planets, the yonis of 8 creatures, the Panchabhutas, etc., are assigned numerical values. Depending upon the nature of each of these, results can be good, bad or indifferent. The root number or the Ashtamangala divided by 30, 27, 7, 12, 9 and 5 respectively gives as the remainder the.lunar day, the constellation, the week-day, the zodiacal sign, the planet and the element in respective order. These reckoned from the Janma Rasi and Nakshatra are used in indicating the immediate future confined to a day or a year.

Chapter Eight is comprehensive dealing with the effects of Arudha Lagna, Navamsa Lagna, Chatra, Sprishtanga and Janma results depending upon benefic or malefic associa- tions to which they are subject. The different avasthas or planetary states are capable of indicating different types of reactions and states of mind of the questioner. Prepounde- rance of Gulika indicates death. The 8 cardinal points beginning from East are signified by Arudha and the twelve Rasis. Different planets rule different types of vegetation which can be made use of in locating lost articles and missing persons. The lay of the gold piece is again dis- cussed in drawing conclusions. The Navamsas of Mandi, the Moon and Lagna are indichtive of illness, death or incurable disease depending upon the sign in which they

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fall. Lagna in the Vargas of different planets gives diffc- rent results. Association of Chandra Navamsa Rasi with planets gives results varying with the nature of the planets. Chandra Kriya (see Appendix) is also given a passing reference.

The longevity of a person is determined by a consi- deration of the Arudha Lagna, the Moon's position, Gulika and other factors together with any omens that may be observed at the time of a question. The 1st and 8th houses and their lords are also important. The author says that longevity must be judged on horoscopy as given in Varahamihira's Brihat Jataka. Certain Drekkanas such as Sarpa, Kala and Gridhra (see Appendix ) associated with malefics in the Ascendant cause death. The twelve houses should be reckoned from Arudha or Lagna, which- ever is stronger. If Prasna results are similar to results based on horoscopy, then the astrologer can assertively predict events. In Chapter Nine a reference is made to one's past Karma, a human life being a means to exhaust it. The horoscope reveals such Karma but it can also be overcome through atma-jnana or self-realisation. The author enumerates two kinds of longevity, namely, Yogayus and Dasayus which are common to most classical works. Several combinations and permutations of planetary lords for Alpayus (shost life), Madhyayus (medium life) and Purnayus (long life) are explained in some detail. Chapter Ten treats of determining death on the basis of the birth and horary charts. Firstly, the Dasayus system is explained by which the Dasa and Antardasa in which death may be anticipated are picked out from

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numerous candidates. An exhaustive list of maraka planets is provided. The Kalachakra Dasa system is also dealt with. Transits, particularly those of Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon can also be effectively applied in this regard, to narrow down the range of time when death is likely. Ashtakavarga signs, the role of Gulika, when Niryana planets become deadly, the time of death, etc., receive due attention. On the basis of the last letter (syllable) of a query, the time of death can also be calcu- lated aided by omens. Various factors have to be carefully reconciled before pronouncing the final word on death. The nature and cause of death receive special attention in Chapter Eleven. The Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn respectively in the 8th house cause death by fire, drowning, weapons, high fever, disease, th'rst and hunger. Depending upon the planet influencing the 8th house and the organ ruled by that sign, death will be due to the disturbance of the hamour or dhatu signified by it. The lord of the 22nd drekkana plays a significant role in causing death. Whether the end will be peaceful or unhappy, is to be gleancd from the nature of the planet in the 7th from the Navamsa occupied by Mandi. Certain omens coinciding with the lord of Mrityusphuta being a particular planet are also taken into account. An assess- ment of the probable time, place and nature of death can be made with accuracy. Diagnosing and prescription for sickness are dealt with in Chapter Twelve. Malefics in houses other than 3 and 11, and benefics in 3, 6, 12 and 8 indicate bad health. Planets in 6, 8 and 12 give a clue to the disease. The

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region of the affection is determined according to the nature of the Lagna. The thridoshas and the seasons ruled by the afflicting planet, etc., also give a clue to the period of disease. Diseases are classified into two types-Nija or natural and Aguntaka or acquired. Nija ailments are divided into sarirotha or those relating to the body and chittotha or mental afflictions. Sarirotha afflictions arise out of imbalance in vatha (wind), kapha (phiegm), pitta (bile) or a mixture of the three. They are treated besides well known methods of Ayurveda by supplementing the prescribed flavour or taste in food, viz., sweet, sour, bitter, hot, salt and kashaya in different combinations, Aguntaka diseases are sub-divided into Drishtanimitiya or of known origin and Adrishtanimitiya or arising out of unknown causes. Ailments caused by curses, incantations and falls from elevation come under the first. To the second group belong problems of a psychic nature including lunacy caused by evil spirits. The causes of madness are enume- rated and appropriate remedies (including mantras) suggested.

Chapter Thirteen shows how to determine the day on which sickness commenced. The computations are mostly on the basis of the constellation occupied by the Moon, or the Rasi corresponding to the first letter of the word uttered by the messenger or querent. Recovery is judged by the Moon's transit of certain Rasis. The time and possibility of recovery is also found out by ncting of certain constellations coinciding with the commencement of illness.

The wrath of certain Deities is also held as the cause of even physical ailments. But the primary cause of all

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affliction is one's past sins denoted by planets in Anishta places. Atonement through repentence, gifts, feeding, prayer and homas as prescribed by Sayanacharya in his Karma Vipaka are said to alleviate or cure these afflictions.

Interpreting results and timing events cover Chapter Pourteen. It begins with how to fix the age of a querent on the basis of the lord of Lagna. Bhavas are considered as having two significations-external and internal, or the gross and the subtle. There are 21 conditions listed in which a Bhava becomes weak. The karakatwa of planets is also used in delineating results pertaining to the concerned Bhavas. Planets in different vargas-own, frieadly, vargottama or inimical -- also influence results. The effec:s of Gulika and the 5 Upagrahas (tertiary planets) in various Bhavas get prominence. The author also shows how the time of fructification of results can be ascertained by com- bining the period allotted to a planet and the Navamsa gained by it. The effects of Dasas are attributed to the Karma which is of two kinds-Dridha and Adridha. Dridha Karma is due to conscious activity-mental, verbal or physical. Adridha Karma is caused by uninten- tional activity. A particular thought, word or deed result- ing in Karma is determined from whether a malefic is in the 5th, 2nd or 10th respectively. Then the topic of imprisonment is abruptly taken up. The Sun's position determines the place of incarceration. Planetary results are described in some detail before the chapter comes to a close.

What are the reasons for the miseries of mankind? Chapter Fifteen deals with this subject in detail. They are eleven

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in number. The astrologer must first determine the nature of Karma, favourable or unfavourable, that is to unfurl itself in the querent's life. Jupiter's benefic disposition indi- cates the Karma as being favourable while his malefic dis- position implies disfavour. Different planets in different signs and Drekkanas indicate different Deities as responsible. Acts of omission or commission that transgress moral codes lead to different types of bad Karma that accumulates to show up as misery only at a later stage of time, whether in this life or some future life. Each type of Karma comes under the governance of a particular Deity. By propitia- ting this Deity, some sort of compromise can be obtained and the misery alleviated to a certain degree. The Satwic, Rajasic or Tamasik nature of the Deity involved is ascer- tained. This enables us to know the nature of the act that is responsible for bringing about the current misery suffered by the querent. The lord of the house of harm or the planet that is responsible for the suffering is called 'angry planet'. Most of the offences are related to temple idols, temple property and the ernduct of temple affairs. Combinations for the displeasure of parents. preceptors, other elders and Brahmins, as the cause of suffering, are given. Ghosts cause trouble if Gulika is involved w.th the house of trouble. Evil eye or drishti badha attaches itself to people who are in extreme states, whether of passion, health, fatigue, finance, filth, hysterics of joy or sorrow, beauty or mental weakness. Women in particular states are also vulnerable to the evil eye. Drishti badha is said to arite by seeing mischievous grahas or spirits. A list of places frequented by these grahas is given. They are

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of 27 types, 18 being very powerful and 9, secondary and not so strong. These spirits, said to have originated from the anger of Rudra, go under the names of Bali Kama, Rati Kama and Hanthu Kama. Then we are enabled to diffe- rentiate the 27 spirits. The position of Arudha also helps in determining the house of harm. This chapter next deals with Balagrahas which trouble only children, who may suffer through poison administered through food. The particular food causing the dosha can be made out from Gulika or Rahu and Arudha Lagna. Poison may be administered either to harm the victim or to gain control over him. Two types of disorders are discussed, one caused by a disorder of the thridoshas and the other, through mantric spells cast by enemies. Finally, the Pari- hara or the method of destroying the Kshudrabhichara is detailed out. Differen! Homas and Balis are prescribed. The last or Chapter Sixteen begins with how to find out where the questioner (in cases where someone else comes to ask a question on another's behalf due to the latter being away somewhere) is at the time of question. The nature (movable, fixed or common) of the Arudha Lagna indicates the distance at which the questioner is and the Amsa-sign shows the nature of life he is leading. Whether the period earlier to the date of question was fortunate or unfortunate is determined by whether benefics or malefics occupy the 6 houses from the latter part of the 4th house. This is for persons born in Libra to Pisces. For those born in Aries to Virgo, the past is indicated by houses 4 to 10 and the future by houses 10 to 4. There are 4 means of attaining one's objective, vi:, sama (gentle), dana (through bribery), bheda (througb intimidation) and

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danda (through force) How to find out the means to be employed in gaining one's objective is explained. The next topic dealt with is how to locate treasures, if any, in a house. The importance of Arudha Lagna in regard to married partner has been stressed. The chapter also deals with certain simple methods, popular in rural parts, to answer queries. In the case of sickness, the Deity respon- sible for it can be determined by an aritbmetical calculation of the number governing the first letter of the question. Different propitiatory remedies are also mentioned. The manner, number and state of betel leaves presented to an astrologer help us to know which Bhavas or significations in a chart prosper and which, suffer. On the basis of betel- leaves Thamboola Lagna can be determined and deductions made. There is then a mention of the principles by which queries made by rulers (applicable to ancient times) on capture of elephants etc., could be answered. The anxiety of children as to whether they will be able to perform the death-ceremonies of their parents etc., are also dealt with. The Sun and 9th lord well placed indicate a positive answer. Afflictions to them indicate obstacles, interrup- tions in the middle and help from third parties to complete them successfully. Combinations for getting grateful children, and the nature of relations between son and father are enumerated.

Acquisition of political power on the basis of the aster- isms occupied by the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Lagna lord and 10th lord at question time is explained. Then we have the Kalachakra, a diagram drawn according to specification marking 28 nakashatras in it including Abhijit. Methods of

xxxii

locating the positions of Yogini and Mrityu in terms of zodia- cal signs and constellations are given. Yogini is symboli- cally described as a fierce murderous female entity. Although there is no difference of opinion as to the rising of Yogini in different week-days, there is some difference, amongst astrological authors, as to its pith. Questions on ascension to heaven, fall to bell or acquisition of wealth can be anwsered by making use of 3 factors, viz., Kantaka- stuna, Raktastuna and Stuna. If these stunas afflict Lagna or Arudha Lagna, hell after death or life equivalent to death will be the querent's lot. The last chapter, also the longest, ends with the span of life of man. Longevity in different Yugas (time-cycles) is given. The signs are also divided as coming under different Yugas. Planets occupying signs and Navamsas governed by different Yugas give a proportionate part of longevity to the native. Persons born in signs or Navamsas ruled by Krita, Treta, Dwapara and Kali are classified. Thus ends Chapter Sixteen.

In conclusion we have to observe that Prasna Marga is a unique work on Natal and Horary Astrology, omens and remedial measures and a careful study of the work is recommended to all students ard savants of astrology.

Bangalore. B. V. RAMAN. 11-8-1980.

। श्री गणेशायनम: ॥

प्रथमाध्यायः

PRAYER मध्याटव्यधिपं दुग्धसिन्धुकन्याधवं घिया। ध्यायामि साध्वहं बुद्धे: शुध्यै वृध्यै च सिद्ये ।।१।। Stanza 1 .- I offer my sincere prayers to God Vishnu so that my mind may become enlightened, extensive and perfect. NOTES No Sanscrit writer ever commences his work without first invoking Divine Grace. In this stanza, the author Harihara makes obeisance to Vishnu who is referred to as Dugdha Sindhu Kanyadhavam, meaning lord of one (Lakshmi) who was evolved out of the milky ocean. The other reference is to Madhyatavyadhipa meaning lord of Madhyalaveedhi or 'Edakad' the native place of the author. The author prays for the purification or enlighten- ment (Buddhi), improvement (Vriddhi) and perfection (Siddhi) of his mind.

गुरुम्यश्च ग्रहेम्यश्च मया बद्धोयमञ्जलि:। प्रसन्नमनसस्ते मे सत्यां कुर्वन्तु भारतीम् ।।२।। Stanza 2 .- I salute my preceptors and the planets, so that they may bless my speech with purity and truth.

2 Prasna Marga

NOTES There is a widespread belief in India that mere learn- ing alone cannot make an astrologer a successful predictor. One should acquire what is called Vaksiddhi or the gift of correct prediction and this power, it is held, could be acquired by sincere prayers to God and preceptor. Hence the invocation that the author's speech be blessed with truth.

नम: श्रीमङ्गलश्रेणीनिवासाय महात्मने। सर्वे जानन्ति दैवज्ञा यद्दत् भृति चक्षुषः ।।३।।

Stanza 3 .- I bow to my Guru Mangalasseri. His pupils being doctors of science are great seers of the future चेल्लूरीश्वरमानम्य शैलजावल्लभं मया। शिष्याय देशिकावासं प्रश्रवर्त्मोपदिश्यते।।४।। Stanza 4 .- I salute my village God Siva and oxpound Prasna Marga for the benefit of my pupils.

NOTES

In stanza 2, the invocation is addressed to preceptors in general while in stanza 3, the author salutes his own Guru by name Mangalasseri whose pupils, he declares, are all highly learned astrologers. In stanza 4, salutatien is made to his village God Siva (Chellureeswara or Perinchellurappa) after which the author

What Astrology Comprehends 3

begins his famous work on astrology which he himself learnt after due initiation and which he now intends for the benefit of his pupils.

WHAT ASTROLOGY COMPREHENDS

स्कन्घत्रयात्मकं ज्योतिश्शास्रमेतत् पडडचत्। गणितं संहिता होरा चेति स्कन्घत्रयं मतम् ।।५।। Stanza 5 .- Ancient astrological science is divided into three skandhas or six angas. The three skandhas are Ganita, Samhita and Hora.

जातकगोळनिमित्तप्रश्नमुहूर्त/ख्यगणितनामानि। अभिदधतीह षडङ्गान्याचार्या ज्यौतिषे महाशासे ॥६।। Stanza 6 .- Sages have classified the great science of astrology into six angas, viz., Jataka, Gola, Nimitta, Prasna, Muhurtha and Ganita.

गोळो गणितं चेति द्वितयं खलु गणितसंहिते स्कन्घे। होरासंहितयोरपि निमित्तमन्यत्रयं च होराख्ये ।।७।।

Stanza 7 -Ganita Skandha deals with Gola and Ganita. Hora Skandha deals with horo- scopy. Prasna, Muhurtha and a part of Nimitta. Samhita Skandha deals elaborately with Nimitta.

4 Prasna Marga

जनपुष्टिक्षयवृष्टिद्विरदतुरङ्गादिसकलवस्तूनाम्। केतूल्कादीनां वा लक्षणमुदितं हि संहितस्कन्धे

Stanza 8 .- Samhita also deals with the vary- ing fortunes of the people, changes in weather and progress of the animal kingdom. It sketches also the nature and shape of meteors, shooting stars and all thę wonderful natural phenomena.

NOTES That astrology is divided into three principal sections or parts, viz., astronomy, horoscopy and samhita is accep- ted by almost all great sages. Varaha Mihira endorses this classification when he observes thus in his Brihat Samhita :

meaning that astrology has several divisions but can be conveniently brought under three specific sections of Ganita (astronomy), Hora (horoscopy) and Sakha (astrclogical mathematics). The six angas referred to in stanza 6 may be defined thus : (i) Jataka: Deals with predictions to be made on the basis of the rising sign at birth. (ii) Gola: Deals with planetary systems, their nature and peculiarities and in short with spherical astronomy. (iii) Nimitta: Takes into consideration tatkalika lakshanas or what are popularly known as omens obtaining at a particular time and makes predictions on certain gestures.

What Astrology Comprehends 5

(iv) Prasna: This refers to forecasts being based upon the time of question. (v) Muhurtha: This has reference to fixing up of auspicious times for success in religious, secular and spiri- tual underiakings. (vi) Ganita: Broadly speaking, Ganita refers to mathematical astronomy and mathematical astrology. As regards the three main sections or skandhas referred to in stanza 5, explanations as to what each of these deals with are to be found in stanzas 7 and 8. The following extract from my English Translation of Brihat Samhita (in preparation) will give the reader an idea of what Samhita treats of : *"Samhita deals with the movements of the Sun and the planets ; their nature, dimension, colour, rays, brilli- ancy and shape; their risings and settings ; their regular courses and deviations therefrom; their retrograde and somewhat retrograde motions, their conjunctions with nakshatras, and their own positions among the other planets and constellations.

*दिनक रादोजां ग्रहाणां चारातेषु च तेषां प्रकृति विकृ त प्रमाण।

समागम वारादिभि: फलानि, नक्षत्रकम विभागेन देशेष्वगसत्य- चार: सप्तविचारः। ग्रहभक्तयो नक्षत्रव्यूह ग्रहशृङ्गाटकग्रहयुद्ध

सद्योवषंकुसुगलत परिधिपरिवेषपरिघ पवनोल्काविग्वाहक्षिति-

चापवास्तु विद्य ङ्ग.विद्यावायसविद्यान्तरचऋरमृगचकुश्चचक्रवात

6 Prasna Marga

"Samhita deals with the influences of the move- ments of Agastya and Saptarishi on different countries corresponding to different constellations and planets ; with stellar divisions and substances ; with the interpretation of appearances presented by planetary meetings; with Graha Yuddha and Samagama; with planetary years; with the nature of the pregnant clouds; with Rohini, Swati and Ashadha Yogas; with the forecasting of immediate rain; with the nature of the future crops by a consideration of the (growth of) flowers and plants; with the phenomenon of halos (Paridhi and Parivesha); with Parigha, winds, fall of meteors, false fires; earth tremors; the crimson sky during twilight; with cloud-castles, dust storms, thunderbolts; with trade forecasts and gardening. "It treats of Indradhwaja, rainbow, house-building or architecture, anga vidya; of predicting from the cawing of crows, from zodiacal diagrams; of future prediction from certain phenomena connected with the deer, horse, and wind; of the construction of temples and palaces; carving of images and their installation; of abori-horticulture and under-currents; of predicting events from the flight of

नोराजनखक अनकोत्पात शान्तिम यूरचत्रफघृतकम्बलखङ्गपद्दकक-

चछेदवस्त्चछंदचामरवण्डतयनाऽनलक्षण रत्नपरीक्षा दीपलक्षणं वन्तकष्ठाद्याभितानि शुभाऽयुभानि निमित्तानि सामान्यनिव जगतः प्रतिपुरुवं पार्षिये व प्रतिक्षणमनन्यकर्मामियुक्तन बैवशञेन विन्तवितव्यानि

Who Can Study Astrology? 7

Kanjana and from appearance of abnormal phenomena; of shantis or propitiatory ceremonies; of various planetary phenomena, ghrita-kambala, khadga and patti; of the features of kukkuta, crab, cow. goat, horse, elephant, man and woman. It also deals with matters connected with harems ; with moles, injuries to footwear and clothes, chamara (hairy fans), danda (sticks), bedding, seats; testing of precious stones, lamps, tooth-brush and the like."

WHO CAN STUDY ASTROLOGY ?

प्रमाणफलभेदेन द्विविधं च भवेदिदम्। प्रमाणं गणितस्कन्धः स्कन्धावन्यौ फलात्मकौ ।।९।।

Stanza 9 .- Astrology can also be divided into two, viz., Pramana and Phala. Ganita Skandha comes under Pramana while the other two skandhas go under Phala.

NOTES

Ganita or astronomy comes under pramana according to which the test of truth is actually demonstrative, i.e., truth is perceived by measurements and calculations. Phala on the other hand is not capable of immediate demonstra- tion. Phala is based upon cause-effect phenomena. The horoscope merely indicates the results of one's previous Karma. Hence the future of man is only the fruit (phala) of his past actions.

8 Prasna Marga

ज्योति: कल्पो निरुक्तं च शिक्षा व्याकरणं तथा। छन्दो विचितिरेतानि षडङ्गानि विदुः शृतेः Stanza 10 .- The Vedas have six limbs, viz., Jyotisha, Kalpa, Nirukta, Siksha, Vyakarana and Chhandas.

छ दः पादौ शब्दशासत्रं च वकतां कल्पः पाणी ज्यौतिषं चक्षुषी च। शिक्षा घ्राणं श्रोत्रमुक्तं निरुक्तं

Stanza 11 .- For the Vedas, the six important limbs, viz., the feet, the face, the hands, the eyes, the nose and the ears are represented by Chhandas, Vyakarana, Kalpa Jyotisha, Siksha, and Nirukta respectively.

वेदस्य चक्षु: किल शास्त्रमेतत् प्रधानताङ्गेषु ततोस्य युक्ता। अङ्गैर्यतोन्यैरपि पूर्णमूर्ति श्रक्षुर्विना क: पुरुषत्वमेति ॥१२।। Stanza 12 .- As astrology is the eye of the Vedas, it is given the pride of place. No person possessing all the organs intact but without eye- sight can have an individuality.

Who Can Study Astrology? .9

NOTES Stanzas 10 to 12 stress the importance of astrology. The Vedas have six angas or auxliaries and astrology is the first and foremost as representing the eyes. The other five are Chandas, Vyakarana, Kalpa, Siksha and Nirukta representing respectively legs or feet, face, hands, nose and ears respectively. Chandas sastra treats about Rishis and Chanda Devatas mentioned in the Vedas and they form the basis (legs). Vyakarana or Sabda treats about the gram- matical peculiarities found in the Vedas. It is as it were the face of the Vedas. Kalpa treats about the procedure to be followed in sacrifices and the Dharmas of the sacrificial priests. It represents the hands. Siksha is concerned with the 'sounds', the 'phonetics' of the Vedas. Nirukta deals with the special meaning of the Vedic words and sounds. Chandas, Kalpa and Vyakarana are in the shape of sutras. Nirukta is in prose and Siksha and Jyotisha are in the form of verses. Jyotisha or Astrology is, of course the most important limb of the Veda Purusha (Vedas Personified). The allusion by way of a simile to want of individuality (purushatwa) in the absence of eye-sight, made in stanza 12,. is merely to emphasize the imporiance given to sight or vision (astrology) as against all the other limbs (angas) of the body (Vedas). अध्येतव्यं ब्राह्मणैरेव तस्मात् ज्योतिश्शासत्रं पुण्यमेतद्रहस्यम्। एतद्बुध्वा सम्यगामोति यस्मा- दर्थम् में धंमोक्षमग्रयं यशश्च ।।१३।। Stanza 13 .- The exalted and recondite science of astrology is to be studied only by

10 Prasna Marga

Brahmins. A proper study of the subject leads one to the acquisition of wealth, merit, salvation, respect and fame.

म्लेच्छा हि यवनास्तेषु सम्यक्छास्त्रमिदं स्थितम्। ऋषिवत्तेपि पूज्यन्ते किं पुनर्दैवविद्द्विजः ॥१४।। इति। Stanza 14 .- When even Mlechchas and Yavanas well versed in astrology are held in the same esteem as Rishis, who would deny respect to an astrologer who happens to be a Brahmin?

NOTÉS

Though stanza 13 implies that the study of astrology should be restricted to Brahmins alone yet from the reference made to Yavanas and Mlechchas well versed in astrology being held in same respect as Rishis, it is clear that all intelligent persons, irrespective of their caste, creed or religion, can take to the study of the subject through proper initiation. The Brahmin, unlike as commonly understood, can be anyone who leads a simple and pious life. Sage Vyasa in the Mahabharata says that everyone is born a sudra and becomes a Brahmin through his deeds as per the statement:

जन्मनो जायते शूद्र: कर्मणो भवति ब्राह्मणः.

The same meaning is implied in the Srimad Bhagavad Gita wherein Lord Krishna says the four-fold division was on the basis of one's nature and one's work. Brahmins,

Who Can Study Astrology? 11

according to the Lord, are those who lead lives of piety, are forbearing, calm, self-controlled and seekers of knowledge.

Stanza 14 is merely a reproduction of stanza 15 of Chapter II of Brihat Samhita.

It is difficult to define the term Mlechcha. But by a careful perusal of the literature connected with ancient scientific thought, I would venture to say that the inhabi- tants of Afghanistan, Arabia and Persia were probably intended by the term Mlechcha. It is not correct to suggest that mlechcha means neecha. On the contrary the term mlechcha meant a person inhabiting a certain tract of land which I would identify as the strip beginning from Afghanistan and extending upto and including modern Iran. The Yavanas are, of course, the Greeks.

This stanza furnishes us with the clue that the ancient Hindus had cultural relations with Middle East and Southern European countries. In fact the astrological writings of Yavanacharyas seem to have been held in such high esteem by a celebrated scientist like Varaha Mihira that he does not hesitate to give them the respect due to a Maharshi. There seems to have been considerable inter- mingling of Indian, Greek and Arabian cultures during the time of Mihira, though it cannot be denied that ail those countries were highly indebted to India, the mother of all arts and sciences.

12 Prasna Marga

QUALIFICATIONS OF AN ASTROLOGER ज्योतिश्शास्त्रविदग्धो गणितपटुर्वृत्तवांश्च सत्यवचाः । विनयी वेदाध्यायी ग्रहयजनपटुश्र भवतु दैवज्ञः ।॥१५॥

Stanza 15 .- That person, who has mastery of this science, who has a good knowledge of mathematics who leads a religious life, who is truthful, who is free from conceit and who is well versed in the Vedas, mantras and tantras, he alone can be called a Daivajnya, or seer.

दैवविदेवंभृतो यद्वदति फलं शुभाशुभं प्रषुः। तत्सर्व न च मिथ्या भवति प्राज्ञैस्तया चोक्तम् ॥१६।। Stanza 16 .- All the predictions made by such a person will come true and will never be false. The learned support this statement.

दशभेदं ग्रहगणितं जातकमवलोक्य निरवशेषं यः। कथयति शुभमवशुभं वा तस्य न मिथ्या भवेद्वाणी ॥१७।। Stanza 17 .- The predictions of one who has studied the ten kinds of planetary motions and who has understood the inner principles of astrology will never be falsified.

Qualifications of an Astrologer 13

अनेकहोरातत्वज्ञ पश्चसिद्धांतकोविदः। ऊहापोहपटुः सिद्धमन्त्रो जानाति जातकम् ।।१८।। इति। Stanza 18 .- He who has acquired a thorough knowledge of the different Horas, who is an adept in the five siddhantas, who has inferential ability and who is initiated into a secret mantra by a preceptor, can alone know horoscopy. NOTES Qualifications of an astrologer have been laid down in stanzas 15 to 18. In this connection, reference may also be made to similar qualifications laid down by Varaha- Mihira in his Brihat Samhita. One, who wishes to be a correct predictor, should not only be an adept in Astrology, Astronomy, Vedas and Mantra Sastras, but also must be a man of character, religious, righteous and must have obtained siddhi of certain secret mantras which would confer on the astrologer the uncanny power of correct predictions. Varahamihira goes to the extent of suggesting that the astrologer should be of noble birth, and agreeable appea- rance. Humility must characterise his behaviour. His personal habits must be disciplined and above opprobium. He should be well versed in ritual and expiatory ceremonies. He should be gifted to resolve independently any tough problems. Disciplined life, faith in God, a helpful nature and scrupulous adherence to certain types of austerity would enable him to develop his power of intui- tion considerably and this would be a great asset to anyone who aspired to be a successful astrologer.

14 Prasna Marga

The ten kinds of astrological mathematics referred to in stanza 17 are explained in the following two stanzas. Stanza 18 is also to be found in a slightly varied form in Satya Samhita.

DIFFERENT KINDS IN GANITA

द्युगणानयतं खेटमध्यमस्फुटयोरपि। ग्रहणद्वितयं खेटकलहस्तत्समागम अस्तोदयौ च खेटानां नक्षत्राणां च सङ्गमः। इति भेदास्तु विज्ञेया: ग्रहाणां गणिते दश ॥२०॥ इति।

Stanzas 19 and 20 .- Kali day, mean positions of planets, true positions of planets, solar eclipses, lunar eclipses, planetary fights, lunar conjunctions combustion, heliacal risings and settings and planetary conjunctions with constellations are the ten kinds of calculations.

NOTES

As I do not propose to explain the astronomical aspect of astrology, I would refer the readers to such works as Surya Siddhanta and Siddhanta Siromani for the elucida- tion of the astronomical references. The astrologer is expected to be thoroughly conversant with the method of calculating eclipses, planetary longitudes, heliacal risings and settings and other astronomical phenomena. Kali day is the number of days passed from the beginning of Kali Yuga to the epoch in question. The mean position of a

Different Divisions in Ganita 15

planet is the position which it would have attained at a uniform rate of motion and the corrections to be applied in respect of the eccentricity of the orbit are not considered. The mean longitude is reckoned on the assumption that the orbits of planets are concentric circles. Because the orbits are elliptical and not circular, equations are later on applied to the mean positions to get the true longitudes. Two planets are said to be in fight (graha yuddha) when they are in conjunction and the distance between them is less than one degree. All the planets excepting the Sun and the Moon can enter into 'war'. The conquering planet is the one whose longitude is less. The heliacal setting and rising of planets (asthodaya) occur when they are at certain distances from the Sun. For instance, Jupiter can become asta when he is at a distance of 11° from the Sun. Surya- siddhanta gives the following limits for the asta or com- bustion of the planets :- Mars 17° Mercury 12° (retrograde) 14° (acceleration) Jupiter 11° Venus 8° Saturn 15° For a fuller appreciation of the astrological impor- tance of combustion reference may be made to a special number (September 1978) of THE ASTROLOGICAL MAGA- ZINE devoted mainly to this subject. Chandra Samagama, eclipses, etc., etc., involve elaborate calculations. I do not propose to discuss them in these notes. Modern Nautical almanacs give all astronomical details required for astrological purposes.

16 Prasna Marga

THE FIVE SIDDHANTAS ब्राह्मः सौरश्र वासिष्ठो रौमशः पौलिशस्तथा। सिद्धान्ता इति पश्च स्यु कथ्यन्ते खलु तद्िदाः ।२१।।

Stanza 21 .- The five siddhantas are Brahma, Surya, Vasishta, Romasa and Poulasa.

स्पष्टा ब्राह्मस्तु सिद्धान्तस्तस्यासन्रस्तु रोमशः। सौर: स्पष्टतरोऽस्पष्टौ वासिष्ठ पौलिशश्र तौ ।।२२।। कदाचिद् ब्रह्मसिद्धान्त: सावित्रस्तु कदाचन। कदाचिद्रोमशः स्पष्टो न कदाचित्तथेतरौ ।।२३।

Stanzas 22 and 23 .- Brahma Siddhanta is accurate. Romasa is more accurate and Surya is the most accurate. Vasishta and Poulasa are not accurate. The first three can be relied upon. And the last two are archaic in character.

NOTES Hindu astronomy makes reference to 18 siddhantas, viz., Surya, Paitamaha, Vyasa, Vasishta, Atri, Parasara, Kasyapa, Narada, Garga, Marichi, Manu, Angirasa, Lomasa, Paulasa, Yavana, Chyavana, Manu and Saunaka. Of these, only five seem to have merited the admiration of Varahamihira, who, as will be seen subsequently is generally the source of inspiration for our author. According to this author, Paitamaha or Brahma, Romasa and Surya Siddhantas can be relied on, while Vasishta and Paulasa,

Beginning the Study of Astrology 17

are not accurate. But Varahamihira in his Pancha- siddhantika (which is a summary of the five siddhantas above referred to) clearly says that the siddhanta made by Paulasa is accurate; near to it stands the siddhanta of Romaka and more accurate is the Saura. And the remain- ing two, viz., Paitamaha and Vasishta are far from truth. Romaka and Surya are accepted as accurate by Varaha- mihira even though pride of place is invariably given to Surya.

BEGINNING THE STUDY OF ASTROLOGY

मन्त्रं यथाविधि गुरो: सुदिने ग्रहीत्वा तद्दे वतां जपह्ुतिप्रमुखः प्रतोष्य।

ज्ञानाय जातकफलस्य तु सिद्धमन्त्र: स्यादेव दैवविदिहाप्तव वात्तथा हि॥२४॥

Stanza 24 .- One should get initiation into the appropriate mantra from a qualified Guru, at an auspicious moment, and propitiate the mantra devata suitably. This will enable him to master all astrological knowledge.

*वौलिशतिबिस्फुटोसी ततयासन्नस्रशेमकः प्रोक्तः। प्सष्ठतर: पवित्रः परिशेषो दुरविभ्रष्ठो।।

2

18 Prasna Marga

दातव्यमपापेभ्यो निपुणमतिभ्यः प्रशान्तशीलेभ्यः। शुभदिवसे गुरुलते चन्द्रे मृदुशीघ्वर्गसथे

Stanza 25 .- An intelligent, calm and pious person should begia study of astrology on an auspicious day when Jupiter is in Lagna and the Moon occupies mridu (benefic) and seeghra (fast) vargas.

NOTES Mridu (soft) and seeghra (fast) vargas are interpreted by some as the vargas of Mercury. According to another reading, mridu vargas are Mrigasira, Anuradha and Revati and seeghra vargas are Aswini, Hasta and Pushyami.

बलिहोमगन्धपुष्पैरादित्यादीन् ग्रहान् समभ्यर्च्य। प्रारभ्यमिद शाखत्रं विधिवत्कृत्वा गुरो: पूजाम् ।।२६।।

Stanza 26 .- The study of this science should begin only after worshipping the nine planets (navagrahas) and the preceptor in the prescribed form. NOTES Apart from the planets being huge masses of matter they are also supposed to have their subtle or spiritual aspects. The navagraha pujas are intended to establish some sort of resonance between thought-vibrations of the individual and those released from the planetary bodies.

Importance of Varahamihira 19

विधिवन्मन्त्रा: पठिताभवन्ति सर्वार्थसाधका लोके। एवं सफर्ल शास्त्रं भवति हि विधिपूर्वकं पठितम् ।।२७।। इति।

Stanza 27 .- Mantras when properly practised and recited give the desired results. So does this science when properly cultivated.

IMPORTANCE OF VARAHAMIHIRA

तस्या: पुनः पदुधियामपि दुर्गमोर्थः। भट्टोत्पलादिरचिता विवृतीर्विलोक्य स्पष्ट करोतु हरदि दैवविदर्थमस्याः ॥२८।।

Stanza 28 .- Brihat Jataka by Varahamihira, though short, is a very suggestive treatise preg- nant with ideas Though difficult to be com- prehended by even intelligent persons, yet with the aid of the commentaries of Bhattotpala and others, it is possible to understand the book.

NOTES Compare Varaha mihira's own admission,

स्वलम् वुर्त्तावचित्रमर्थबहुळ meaning that his work is " concise, of a variety of meter and full of meaning".

20 Prasna Marga होरां वराहमिहिरास्यविनिर्गतां ये मालामिवादधति दैवविदः स्वकण्ठे। कृष्णीयशास्त्रमपि भर्तृमतीव सूत्रं तेषां सभासु महती भवतीह शोभा ।।२९।। Stanza 29 .- One wearing the garland of Varahamihira in his neck along with the necklace of Krishneeya can win laurels in any astrological assembly.

NOTES Brihat Jataka deals with horoscopy and Krishneeya with Prasna. One well acquainted with these two books can, according to the author, safely claim good scholarship.

होरायास्तु दशाध्याय्यां व्याख्यायां क्रियता श्रमः । दैवजेन विशेषेण फलमादेष्टुमिच्छता ।।३०। Stanza 30 .- An astrologer who wants to make predictions should specially study Dasa- dhyayi carefully.

दशाध्याय्यां विशेषेण श्रमौ नैव कृतो यदि। दुष्करः फलनिर्देशस्तद्विदां च तथा वचः ॥।३१।। Stanza 31 .- Without a thorough study of the Dasadhyayi, it would be difficult to make correct predictions. So say the learned.

Importance of Varahamihira 21

अदृष्ट्रा यो दशाध्यायीं फलमादेष्टमिच्छति। इच्छत्येव समुद्रस्य तरणं स पवं बिना ।।३२।। Stanza 32 .- One, who attempts to predict without studying the Dasadhyayi, would be like a man trying to cross an ocean without a boat. NOTES Several commentaries have been written on Brihat Jataka,Bhattotpala's being the most popular and Dasadhyayi being the the most recondite. The author or Prasna Marga seems to have had such great regard for Dasadhyayi, that he regards this commentary as a suitable boat for crossing the grand ocean of astrological knowledge. As the name implies, Dasadh yayi is a commentary on only the first ten chapters of Brihat Jataka. The name of the commentator is still obscure, though some hold that one Govinda Somayaji wrote these commentaries. As to why he chose to comment on only ten chapters, remains inexplicable. He must have had hisown reasons. A careful study of Dasadh vari reveals that the commentator has very intelli- gently tried to read some secret or hidden meanings into Varahamihira's writings other than they would ordinarily imply. To gratify the curiosity of readers as to the uniqueness of Dasadhyayi, I shall just refer to the first sloka of Chapter I of Brihat Jataka. The first line of the sloka runs thus : मूर्तित्वे परिकल्पितः शशभुतो वर्त्माऽपुनर्जन्मना- This sloka, according to Bhattotpala, is merely an invocation addressed to the great and glorious Sun. But Dasadh yayi sees in it a variety of meanings, consistent with

22 Prasna Marga

Varahamihira's own claim to this effect in stanza 2 of Chapter I of Brihat Jataka. It is said that the method of casting unknown horoscopes (Nashta Jataka) is contained in this sloka, apart from other equally important or signifi- cant meanings. Each word of the sloka, apart from what it ordinarily connotes, is supposed to stand for some other meaning. Thus while by the word moorthithve is meant one of the astamurthis of Siva (vide English Translation of Brihat Jataka by B. Suryanarain Rao) it is also said to imply moorthibhava or Lagna. Similarly each word of the sloka is held to be capable of a variety of meanings and interpretations. Again taking the words Moorthithve- parikalpitassasabritha: To start with 'moorthithve' is converted into numbers. From this the number 'parika' should be subtracted. Again from the remainder, got by subtracting ' parika' from 'moorthithve' the number of 'pitha' after being inverted should be subtracted, as the commentary says that the number 'pitha' should be sub- tracted only after it is inverted (sodhayed vilomena). Then to this remainder the number 'sasa' should be added This gives the number of slokas contained in Brihat Jataka. When this is calculated, we will get the number as shown hereunder :-

(1) The number of ' moorthithve is 465 (as 'thve ' is 4, 'rthi ' is 6 and ' mu ' is 5). (2) The number for ' parika' is 121. (3) When (2) is subtracted from (1) we get 465 - 121 =344. (4) From this the number for ' pitha' =61 should be subtracted after it is reversed. Then we get 344 - 16=328.

Role of Horoscopy and Astrology 23

(5) To this 328 the number for 'sasa' should be added. Then we get (328 plus 55) 383. This is the total number of slokas contained in the work Brihat Jataka. The above observations, it is hoped, will give the reader an idea of how the author of Dasadhyayi has tried to interpret Brihat Jataka.

ROLE OF HOROSCOPY AND HORARY स्वर्गाद्यनुभवक्षीणशिष्टप्राचीनकर्मणाम्। भोगाय जननं नृणां मोहभाजां मुहुर्मुद्दः 113311 Stanza 33 .- A man is born in this world to enjoy or suffer the consequence of his deeds from his past birth. A portion of this he reaps in heaven or hell but for the remnant he has to take a new birth.

अत्र तु द्विविधं कर्म प्राक्कर्म निजयततः । अन्ल्यस्यानुभवोमुत्र भुक्त्वेहाद्यस्य संक्षय: ।।३४। Stanza 34 .- There are two kinds of Karma, viz., sanchita and prarabdha. The effects of sanchita will be exhausted in heaven or hell. The result of the prarabdha karma will be lessened only by experiencing them. NOTES In stanzas 33 and 34, the theory of Karma is cryptically expounded. The subject of Karma is so vast that it would be impossible to make justice to it by way of a short note.

24 Prasna Marga

Karma has its philosophical as well as astrological aspects. The author of this work has tried to explain that sanchita karma can be exhausted by our sojourn in heaven or hell, whereas prarabdha karma must be experienced in this life. Prarabdha karma, at the end of this life, will result in our re-birth, this cycle of births and deaths going on till the attainment of gnana or true knowledge. I have dealt with the theory of Karma exhaustively in my book Astrology and Modern Thought and I would refer my esteemed readers to this book for more details.

स्वकर्म भोक्तुं जायन्ते प्रायेणैव हि जन्तवः । क्षीणे कर्मणि चान्यत्र पुनर्गच्छन्ति देहिन:ः। Stanza 35 .- Souls take fresh births for reap- ing the fruits of previous lives. This cycle of births goes on until the attainment of moksha.

यदुपचितमन्यजन्मनि शुभाशुमं तस्य कर्मणः पक्तिम। व्यक्षयति शास्त्रमेतत्तमसि द्रव्याणि दीप इव ।।३६।। पूर्वजन्मार्जितं कर्म शुभं वा यदि वाशुभम्। तस्य पक्तिं ग्रहाः सर्वे सूचयन्तीह जन्मनि ।३७/। Stanzas 36 and 37 .- Just as a lamp illumines objects in darkness, astrology reveals to us the effects of our previous Karma, good or bad. All the planets indicate clearly whether we are enjoy- ing or suffering now as a result of our actions in our previous birth.

Importance of Muhurtha 25

IMPORTANCE OF MUHURTHA सुखदुःखकरं कर्म शुभाशुभ मुहूर्तजम्। जन्मान्तरेपि तत् कुर्यात् फलं तस्यान्वयेपि वा ।।३८।। Stanza 38 .- What is done at an auspicious moment results in happiness. What is done at an inauspicious time, begets evil. However remote our deeds, the results are bound to be experienced in the family.

NOTES According to stanza 36 astrology merely indicates the results of past Karma. Planets are only an index of things to happen and they do not cause the events. The same idea is expressed by almost all classical writers. This definition must enable us to appreciate the real significance and scope of astrology and its relation to the theory of Karma. Stanzas 37 and 38 repeat the same idea. It is also suggested in stanza 38 that accumulated Karma during the past birth may be experienced not only by the person concerned but also by his descendants.

प्रारब्धसंज्ञि मानुष्यजातौ जातकचिन्तनम् Stanza 39 .- The balance of good or bad Karma brought forward from the previous birth is prarabdha, and it is the reading of this that goes under the name of Jataka or Astrology.

26 Prasna Marga

आ मरणादिह जन्तुः प्राक्कृतनिजकर्मपाकमनुभवति। तद्द्वक्तुमलं जातकमथ किं प्रश्नेन कथ्यते सत्यम् ॥४०।। Stanza 40 .- One undergoes the consequences of one's previous Karma from birth to death and this can be known from his horoscope. Then what is the use of Prasna ? NOTES As the name of the book implies, Prasna Marga has primarily to do with Prasna or horary astrology, though, almost all the principles may be used with advantage in interpreting radical horoscopes. In stanza 40, the author queries as to what use a Prasna chart could be put to when horoscopy can deal with all important events. He answers the question in the following stanzas : -

कस्य पा क्तरिति ज्ञातुमिदानीं पूर्वकर्मणाम्। इहार्जितं च विज्ञातं कर्म प्रश्नो विधीयते Stanza 41 .- Prasna reveals to us whether a man reaps the fruits of his deeds in his previous birth or the fruits of his actions in this birth. Here a question arises. प्राग्जन्मानि कृतानां च कृतानां चेह कर्मणाम्। विभागोपि कथं ज्ञेय इति चेत्सोपि कथ्यते Stanza 42 .- How can we distinguish whether it is the result of our previous Karma or present Karma that is yielding its result now?

Importance of Muhurtha 27

यदा जातकतः प्रश्नो गुणदोषैर्विभिदयते। तदा शुभाशुभं विद्यात् कर्मभेदैरिहार्जितेः ॥।४३।। Stanza 43 .-- If the horoscope has beneficial planetary patterns and the Prasna chart malefic ones, then it is to be understood that the native is experiencing the fruits of evil Karma done in this birth. If vice versa, then also the native is experiencing the effects of good Karma done in this birth.

यदानुसरति प्रश्नो जातकं ग्रहभादिभिः । तदा प्राक्कर्मपाकः स्यादित्याघ्राह्यं हि धीमता इति।।।४४।। Stanza 44 .- If the planetary patterns in the horoscope as well as in the Prasna chart are similar, then a clever astrologer should divine that the native is experiencing the fruits of his past Karma only.

NOTES In stanzas 41 to 44, the author explains the relative utilities of the Prasna and the birth charts. There is repea- ted emphasis on the influences of Karma and the importance of Prasna in finding out the nature of Karma to be enjoyed in this birth. The horoscope by itself reveals the nature of past Karma and the Prasna chart acts as some sort of a supplement to the birth chart. Suppose we see in a man's horoscope a good period and in a query of his (Prasna

28 Prasna Marga

chart) a very bad time, then we have to assume that the person is reaping the bad effects of his Karma done in this life. Suppose we see in his horoscope a bad period and in his Prasna chart a good period, it is to be inferred that the person is reaping the favourable effects of good deeds done in this birth only. If the horoscope and Prasna are similar in positions and combinations, then the person is reaping the result of Karma done in his previous birth. Since some sort of a balancing of the birth and Prasna charts is involved, it is clear that the current indications in the birth chart, i.e., the indications obtaining at the time of a query- the benefic and malefic dispositions of current Dasa lords, Yogakarakas, etc., have to be studied along with the Prasna chart to know the nature of Karma now being experienced.

SIMILARITY BETWEEN PRASNA AND JATAKA

बुध्वा शास्त्रं यथान्यायं बलाबलविधानतः । सयोक्तं जातके सर्वे तद्वत् प्रश्नेपि चिन्तयेत्।।४५।। इति।

Stanza 45 .- The Prasna chart should be read just as the horoscope is examined with reference to its relative merits and demerits.

संप्रेर्यमाणस्त्ववशः शरीरी प्रसह्य देवेन शुभाशुभेन। ज्योतिर्विद: सन्निधिमेति यस्मात् प्रश्नोऽप्यतो जन्मसम: फलेषु ॥४६।। Stanza 46 .- A person goes to an astrologer prompted by Providence to know his future.

Similarity between Prasna and Jataka 29

Therefore there is a close similarity between Prasna and Jataka.

जन्मलग्नतया प्रश्नलग्नं संकल्प्य पण्डितः। जातके यद्यदुददिष्टं तत्तत् प्रश्नेपि चिन्तयेत् ।।४७।। इति। Stanza 47 .- As Prasna Lagna is similar to Janma Lagna, all events should be read from Prasna as you would do in a horoscope.

NOTES

The sum and substance of these three stanzas is that the time of question (Prasna) should be given the same importance as the time of birth. Human births are regu- lated according to the law of Karma and hence the time of birth is significant. Similarly a person proceeds to an astrologer to ascertain his future prompted by a Divine force and hence the time of question is equally important. There are no doubt certain points of difference in reading Prasna charts and horoscopes. They are discussed by the author in their proper places. But unless otherwise implied, all events revealed in a horoscope can also be read from a Prasna chart. The principles given in this book may be used with advantage in studying horoscopes. There are some points of difference in reading which the author details in Chapter XIV and XVII.

॥ इति प्रश्नमार्गे प्रथमोऽध्यायः॥

द्वितीयाध्यायः

PROCEDURE FOR THE ASTROLOGER उत्थायोषसि देवतां हृदि निजां ध्यात्वा वपुश्शेधनं कृत्वा स्नानपुरःसरं सलिलविक्षेपादि कर्माकिलं। कृत्वा मन्त्रजपादिकं च विधिवत् पञ्चाङ्गवीक्षां तथा खेटानां गणनं च दैवविदथ स्वास्यान्तरात्मा भवेत् ।।१।। Stanza 1 .- An astrologer should get up early in the morning, pray to the family Deity, cleanse the various parts of the body, bathe, do his Nitya Karmas and perform mantra japa (by invoking the presiding Deity according to sbastraic injunc- tion), study the planets with the help of an almanac and remain calm without being ruffled by any anxieties, ever expecting the visit of some- one anxious to have his difficulties solved with the help of astrology. NOTES In this sloka, the author explains what everyone expects of an astrologer to do. Obviously this chapter also gives us an insight into the social life of the people of

Procedure for the Querist 31

Kerala (in particular and India in general) at the time of this author. We are informed that even now in Kerala where this science had developed much, there are many families which have own astrologers to consult with as we find elsewhere family physicians attending to the health of a family. The astrologer is called in and asked to read.the past, present and the future of the family by astha mangala prasna. The first part of this treatise deals with this art and the author has detailed every aspect of it for the benefit of Daivajnas (astrologers). An astrologer is expected to be very learned and to lead a godly life. The astrologer believes that what he foretells, will never be satisfactory, unless his preceptor and his initiated mantra lead him on to find out the real truth in spite of the diversity of views revealed therein (Ashta Mangala Prasna).

आलोके सलु यस्य कस्यचिद्सावायाति यत्किचन प्रष्टुं मां प्रति नूनामित्यवहितस्तन्न्यस्तदृष्टिर्द्ढम्। तच्छेष्टादिकमाकलय्य सकलं तत्कालजातं पुनर्ज्ञानीयात्सदसन्निमित्तमपि च श्वासस्थितिं चात्मनः ॥२॥

Stanza 2 .- The astrologer should always be on the lookout if any person is approaching him for a prediction. He should carefully examine the appearance, dress, movements, actions, etc., of the querist. He should also note down any

32 Prasna Marga

ominous sound or indicative sign. Lastly, he should very carefully diagnose the nature of his own breath.

PROCEDURE FOR THE QUERIST

तियौ शुभायां शुभादेऽनुकूले तारे दिने भानुशुभग्रहाणाम्। प्रष्टेप्सितं प्राभृतदानतुष्ट ज्योतिर्विदं प्रातरुपेत्य पृच्छेत् ।।३।।

Stanza 3 .- The querist should select an auspicious lunar day, a favourable constellation and auspicious week-days.' Early in the morning, the querist should meet the astrologer with some humble presents and ask his question in a reverential attitude.

NOTES In this stanza, the author explains what a person who is anxious to know his future should do. The person consul- ting is not, of course, expected to know this treatise but the details furnished are for the information of the astrologer. Favourable constellations are the 2nd, 4th, 6th and 8th from birth star. Saturday and Tuesday are not auspicious.

Procedure for the Querist 33

नापृष्टः कस्यचिद्वयान्नान्यायेन च पृच्छतः । परमार्थफलज्ञानं यतो नैवेह सिध्यति ।।४।। इति।। अपृच्छतः पृच्छतो वा जिज्ञासोर्थस्यकस्यचित्। होराकेन्द्रत्रिकोणेभ्यः शुभाशुभफलं वदेत् ॥५।। वसिष्ठवचनादस्माज्जिज्ञसोरप्यपृच्छतः । दर्शने दैवविद्यादारूढेन शुभाशुभम् ।।६।। Stanzas 4, 5 and 6 .- Only humble requests deserve an answer. No prediction should be offered to any person unasked for, nor to one who wishes to test an astrologer. If the astro- loger attempts to answer him, he will not be able to get at the truth. Whether requested or not, if there is the desire to know the future, the astro- loger should give predictions on the basis of Lagna, Kendras and Kona Bhavas. As Vasishta says "those who have a desire to know the future, whether they ask or not, deserve to be given predictions on the basis of Arudha" at the time of Prasna. NOTES Some sort of a professional code is laid down in stanzas 4 to 6. Unasked for, no prediction should be given. If a person comes to test an astrologer, no predic- tions should be given. But when the motive is pure and the person is anxious to consult the astrologer, it is immaterial 3

34 Prasna Marga

whether or not one expresses a desire to consult. Such a person must receive the attention of the astrologer.

PROCEDURE FOR ARUDHA एन्य्रां मेपवृषावग्निकोणे मिथुनभं स्थितम् । याम्यां कर्कटसिंहौ स्तो नैऋत्यां दिशि कन्यका ।।७।। वारुण्यां तु तुलाकीटौ वायुकोणे धनुःस्थितिः। सौम्यां मृगघटौ स्यातामैशान्यां दिशि मीनभम् ।।८।। भूमिचक्रमिति प्रोक्तं विष्वग्दैवविदःस्थितम् । तत्र यत्र स्थितः प्रष्ा पृच्छत्यारूढभं हि तत् ।।९।। Stanzas 7. 8 and 9 .- In the terrestrial sphere or circle, Mesha and Vrishabha represent east; Mithuna south-east; Karkataka and Simha sovth; Kanya south-west; Thula and Vrischika west; Dhanus north-west; Makara and Kumbha north; and Meena north-east. The Arudha Rasi is the sign corresponding to the direction occupied by the questioner at the time of putting the query. आरूडत्वात्पृच्छकेन राशिरारूढ उच्यते। तम्मिन् सम्यक्परिज्ञाते सरव तेनैव चिन्त्यताम् ॥१०।। Stanza 10 .- As the sign comes to be mounted upon by the questioner, it is termed arudha. A careful consideration of arudha leads to a proper assessment of the chart concerned.

Procedure for Arudha 35

तम्मिन्ननिश्चिते चक्रं विलिख्याम्मिन् सुपूजिते। प्रष्टा म्वर्गेन यं राशिं स्पृशेदारूढ एव सः ।।११।। इति।

Stanca 11 .- In uncertain cases, arudha is to be found thus: A circle is drawn marking the directions and zodiacal signs, and after due invocation, the questioner is asked to place a piece of gold on any point and arudha is accord- ingly ascertained.

NOTES Arudha is a very important factor in Prasna or Horary astrology. In stanzas 7 to 11, the method of finding arudha is indicated. The twelve signs are assigned to the eight directions and according to the direction held by the person consulting the astrologer at the time of a query, the arudha is found. In doubtful cases, or when a questioner being agitated, walking up and down puts a question, a diagrammatic representation is made and the person asked to place a bit of gold or merely touch any point. This sign is taken as arudha. It will be seen that if the circle is divided by 8, each cardinal point gets 45°. According to the assignment of Rasis, the common signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces) get each 45°, while the other signs get only 221°. If for instance the questioner stands, say at a distance of 30° towards S.E. direction, the sign will undoubtedly be Taurus and this will be the arudha. It is better the astrologer

36 Prasna Marga

always keeps ready a circle (see appendix) drawn according to the instructions in the above stanzas, and when a ques- tioner comes, ask him to touch a place in the circle and then note down the arudha Rasi. Otherwise the direction where a person stands can be easily noted and arudha Lagna determined.

THINGS TO BE NOTED AT QUERY TIME दैवजेन समाहितेन समयो देश: स्ववायुर्दशा प्रष्टुः स्पर्शनामाश्रितर्क्षहरितौ प्रश्नाक्षराणि स्थितिः । चेष्टाभावविलोकने च वसनादन्यच् तत्कालजं पृच्छाया: समये तदेतदखिलं श्ेयं हि वक्तुं फलम् ।।१२।।

Stanza 12 .- When a query is put, the astro- loger should take stock of the exact time (samaya), the nature of the spot occupied by the questioner (desa), the nature of his own breath (swarayu), his own condition or state (avastha), what the querist touches (sparsa), arudha Rasi, the direction, the jetters of the words uttered (prasnakshara), deportment of the querist (sthiti), movements (cheshta), mental attitude (bhava), his looking at particular direction or thing (vilokanam), his dress (vasanam), and ominous sounds or indica- tive signs at the time (nimittas).

Method of Reading the Results 37

NOTES Fourteen items have been listed in this stanza which the author wants an astrologer to consider carefully when answering a query. It is interesting to note that according to this stanza every gesture, emotion and suggestion, both of the astrologer and the querist have their own role to play in indicating the outcome of a query. The author poses a very intriguing problem to modern thinkers, when he brings together a variety of apparently unconnected matters as having a bearing on our future thinking and actions. Modern psychologists and para-psychologists will do well to find why or how the state of mind of a person, or the dress he wears or the direction he faces, give a clue to the pattern of what is likely to happen to him in the future. Prasna takes into account not only the external influences, the planets, but also the internal ones, the psychic impulses which mould life. It enjoins a thorough examination of the minds of the astrologer and the querist.

METHOD OF READING THE RESULTS

सूत्रत्रिस्पुट जाष्टमङ्गलफलारूढोदयेन्दूद्वम् । आयुः खेटवशाच् जातकवशात्संचिन्त्य भावान् परान्। देवानामनुकूलतादि च वदेद्वाधाभिचाराद्यपि।। इति ।।१३।। Stanza 13 .- The astrologer should reveal to the querist God's grace towards him, the troubles

38 Prasna Marga

from enemies, diseases and appropriate remedial measures by observing and taking into account everything around him in the shape of omens or signs at the time of the query, when he starts from the house of the native, when he is on his way to the house, when he enters his house and when the Chakra or casting is being prepared and on the basis of sutra, thrisphuta, ashtamangala, arudha, laying of the gold piece (suvarnavastha) amongst the flowers in the Chakra, the rising sign, the position of the Moon, planetary states at the time and the Bhavas in the horoscope of the questioner. NOTES This sloka is not easily amenable to translation. The author wants the astrologer to follow a particular order in answering queries. First he should predict the leanings of God towards the native and then give indications of any impending troubles from enemies, diseases, etc., and suggest suitable remedial measures to counteract the evil effects. These predictions should be based on three factors, viz., (a) the Prasna chart, (b) the birth chart and (c) Nimittas -an all-embracing subject, not capable of concise defini- tion. If the astrologer is invited to the house of the questioner, then he should all the while closely and carefully watch all omens or other signs that he may come across from the time he starts from his residence to the time of his giving the predictions. Nature is a source of eternal inspiration for man. Prof. Rao used to tell me that by a

The Time Factor 39

certain code of interpretation of the sounds, gestures and movements of certain species of animals, the future could be ascertained with considerable accuracy. I am not attempting an explanation of the other technical terms used in this stanza, such as thrisphuta, etc., as the meanings become clear to the reader as he goes through further chapters.

दैवज्ञसावधानत्वे प्रष्टुश् प्रश्नसौष्ठवे । सति प्रश्नेषु सर्वेषु शुभाप्तिर्वचनं तथा ।।१४।। दैवज्ञसावधानत्वं प्रष्टुश प्रश्नसौष्ठवम् । इष्टद्रव्यभृतीक्षे च सम्यगिष्टोपलब्धये ।। इति।१५।। Stanzas 14 and 15 .- If the mind of the astro- loger is steady and the person to whom the future is read is humble and devout in temperament, then the reading will be correct and the answer to all the queries will be invariably good. If the astrologer is calm, if the querent frames his question in the proper form and if anybody talks about it or if he sees anything connected with the topic, then the questioner will attain his desired object. So says a great authority. THE TIME FACTOR बालानवर्ज्यतारासु गण्डान्तोष्णविषेषु च । अष्टमीविष्टिरिक्तासु स्थिरेष करणेषु च ॥१६।।

40 Prasna Marga

तिथिनक्षत्रराश्यंशसन्धौ च गुलिकोदये। चक्रार्द्वे ग्रहणे सार्पीशेरस्येकार्गले तथा ।।१७।। मृत्युदग्धादियोगेषु पापदृश्युदयेषु च । त्रयोदश्यां प्रदोषे च निशीथे रविदर्शने ।।१८।। संक्रान्तौ च तथा प्रष्ुविपत्प्रत्यरयोर्वधे। अष्टमे च तथा राशौ जन्माष्टमगते विधौ ।।१९।। इत्यादि दुष्टकालेषु प्रश्नस्त्यादशुभग्रदः ॥२०। Stanzas 16 to 20 .- The unfavourable times for putting questions are:, the eleven constella- tions not considered auspicious for the first feeding of the child; gandantha, ushna and visha nakshatras, the four evil lunar days, vishti and sthira karanas; junctions of tithi, nakshatra, rasi and amsa; gulikodayakala, vyatheepatha, sarpa siras, eclipses and ekargala; mrityu and dagdha yogas; when malefics rise in or aspect evil signs, thirteenth lunar day; at dusk; at midnight; when the Lagna is aspected by the Sun; at a solar ingress; on a day ruled by the 3rd, 5th or 7th star from the birth star of the querent ; when the Lagna of query is the 8th from the querent's birth Lagna; and when the query Moon is in the 8th from the natal Moon. Queries put under such evil times are indicative of inauspicious results.

The Time Factor 41

NOTES

According to stanzas 16 to 20, an astrologer has to consider innumerable astronomical factors before pronoun- cing judgement. There are nearly 22 doshas or afflictions or inauspicious periods. When a question is put under these doshas, the indication should be deemed to prove harmful or inauspicious. For the information of the readers, I propose to list these doshas seriatim. There is a slight difference between the definition of the following doshas as given here and as found in some works on Muhurtha.

I. Constellations considered inauspicious for first feeding : They are Bharani, Krittika, Aridra, Aslesha, Makha, Pubba, Visakha, Jyeshta, Moola and Poorvashadha.

II. Gandantha : The first pada or quarter of Aswini, Makha and Moola and the last pada of Aslesha, Jyeshta and Revati.

III. Ushna : From 73 to 15 ghatikas of Aswini, Rohini, Punarvasu, Makha and Hasta; 55 to 60 ghatikas of Bharani, Mrigasira, Pushyami, Pubba and Chitta; 21 to 30 ghatikas of Krittika, Aridra, Aslesha, Uttara, Swati; 1 to 8 ghatikas of the 1st quarter of Visakha, Moola, Sravana and Poorvabhadra ; 52 to 60 ghatikas of Anuradha, Poorvashadha, Dhanishta, Uttarabhadra ; 20 to 30 ghatikas of Jyeshta, Uttarashadha, Satabhisha and Revati.

42 Prasna Margu

IV. Visha: 50, 24, 30, 4, 14, 11, 30, 20, 32, 30, 20, 18, 22, 20, 14, 14, 10, 14, 20, 24, 20, 10, 10, 18, 16, 24, 30; 4 ghatis from these limits in each of the 27 constellations respectively. For example, in Krittika that part of the constella- tion coming between 30 and 34 ghatis becomes Visha.

V. Riktha Thithis : The 4th, 8th, 9th and 14th lunar days.

VI. Bad Karanas: Vishti and Sthira. Vishti is the 7th Karana. The first seven come by rota- tion eight times in a lunar month commencing with the second half of the first lunar day. There are 11 Karanas, the four, viz., sakuna, chatushpada, naya and kimstughna being sthira or permanent Karanas which occur in order from the second half of the 29th lunar day.

VII. Sandhis or junctional points : (a) The first and the last ghati (24 minutes) of a lunar day and nakshatra. (b) The first and the last five vighatis (2 minutes) of a sign. (c) The first and the last vighatika (24 seconds) of each Navamsa.

VIII. Gulikodaya Kala: This is the time at which the tertiary planet Gulika rises. Each day at a particular interval of time from sunrise as given below Gulika is said to rise.

The Time Factor 43

Day Night Sunday 26 10 Monday 22 6 Tuesday 18 2 Wednesday 14 26 Thursday 10 22 Friday 6 18 Saturday 2 14 lt is this moment that is meant. IX. Vyathipatha : This is an evil Yoga prohibited for all auspicious works. The method of calculation of Vyathipatha has been detailed in all Hindu astronomical treatises. Roughly Vyathipatha falls in the following asterisms in the corres- ponding solar months : Aries and Libra Makha and Satabhisha Taurus and Scorpio Sravana and Pushyami Gemini and Sagittarius Poorvashadha and Aridra Cancer and Capricorn Rohini and Jyeshta Leo and Aquarius Bharani and Swati Virgo and Pisces Revati and Hasta

X. Eclipses: For three days from the time of the commencement of solar or lunar eclipse, the Lime is said to be inauspicious. X1. Sarpasiras: The latter half of Vyathipatha. XII. Ekargala: This yoga is powerful during the day- time. The following is a rough method for calculating Ekargala : Subtract the Sun's longitude from 360°. Divide the balance by 13° 20'. Reject the remainder and the quotient

44 Prasna Marga

plus 1 is the Ekargala nakshatra. The 2nd, 7th, 10th, 11th, 14th, 16th, 18th and 20th from this asterism are also Ekargala stars.

Example : The Sun's longitude is 116°. 244° 360-116 : 13° 20' =18 3/10

The 19th from Aswini, viz., Moola is Ekargala star. Other Ekargala stars are Poorvashadha, Poorvabhadra, Aswini, Bharani, Mrigasira, Punarvasu, Aslesha and Pubba.

XIII. Mrityu and Dagdha Yogas: Sunday to Saturday coinciding with Makha, Visakha, Aridra, Moola, Satabhisha, Rohini, Poorvashadha respectively causes Mrityu Yoga in the first eighth part of the day concerned. Dagdha Yoga arises when Sunday to Saturday respectively coincide with the 12th, 11th, 5th, 2nd, 6th, 8th and 9th lunar days.

XIV. Rise and Aspect of Evil Planets: The Sun, Mars, Saturn and Rahu are malefics. Their aspect of or association with the rising sign is consi- dered inauspicious.

XV. The 13th lunar day.

XVI. Pradosha: At dusk, i.e., just before and imme- diately after sunset.

XVII. Nishi: At the time of midnight.

The Space Factor 45

XVIII. Ravi Darshana: When the Lagna at the time of the query is aspected by the Sun. According to some the 7th sign from that occupied by the Sun.

XIX. Sankranti: At the time of the solar ingress into a zodiacal sign. The 16 ghatikas (6h. 24m.) both before and after the Sun's entry can be considered as inauspicious.

XX. When the ruling constellation is the 3rd, 5th or 7th from that of the birth, it goes under the name of Vipat, Pratyak and Naidhana respectively and hence inauspicious.

XXI. The Lagna at the time of query should not be the 8th from the Lagna at the time of birth.

XXII. The Moon at the time of query should not be in the 8th from the radical Moon.

Thus it will be seen that in these stanzas, some sort of a brief summary of Muhurtha or electional astrology has been given. Then there are other equally inauspicious phenomena like fall of meteors and appearance of comets, etc., which should also be considered.

THE SPACE FACTOR

इत्यादिदोपरहिते कालेमृतघटीषु च । शुभानामुदये दृष्टौ मुहूर्तेषु शुभेषु च । सिद्धामृतादियोगेषु पृच्छामीष्टफलप्रदा ।।२१।।

46 Prasna Marga

Stanza 21 .- If the query is made at a time which is free from the above doshas, in the Amrita ghatis, when benefics rise in the Lagna or aspect it, in auspicious Muhurthas and in Siddha, Amrita and other good yogas, it will lead to success.

NOTES

Amritaghatikas are auspicious moments and they vary with regard to each constellation. In the table given below, the moments of the commencement of the Amritaghatikas are given, along with the moments of the commencement of Vishaghatikas and Ushnasikha and also the Mrityu- bhagas or fatal degrees, for ready reference.

Durmuhurtha .- Muhurtha technically means 48 minutes or 2 ghatis in terms of time. A sidereal day consists of 30 muhurthas. The Ist fifteen diurnal muhurthas named are : (1) Rudra, (2) Ahi, (3) Mitra, (4) Pitru. (5) Vasu, (6) Vara, (7) Vishwedeva, (8) Vidhi. (9) Satamukhi, (10) Puruhuta, (11) Vahni, (12) Naktanchara, (13) Varuna, (14) Arama, and (15) Bhaga. The nocturnal muhurthas are : (1) Girisa, (2) Ajipada. (3) Ahirbudhya, (4) Pusha, (5) Aswi, (6) Yama, (7) Agni, (8) Vidhatru, (9) Chanda, (10) Aditi, (11) Jeeva, (12) Vishnu. (13) Yumigadyuti, (14) Thyasthur, and (15) Samdram.

In regard to the diurnal muhurthas the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 12th and 15th are inauspicious while in nocturnal muhurthas the 1st, 2nd, 6th and 7th are inauspicious.

The Space Factor 47

In calculating the Muhurtha or the Visha or Amrita- ghatikas, the exact length of day and night or the exact duration of the nakshatra concerned should be ascertained. Each Muhurtha is said to last for 48 minutes on the assumption that the duration of day and night is of equal proportion vi =. , 30 ghatis. Similarly the periods of commencement and termination of the amrita or visha- ghatikas are given on the assumption that the duration of a nakshatra is 60 ghatis.

Visha- Ushna- Amrita-

No. Asterism ghatika sikha ghatika B. E. B. E. B. E. bhaga Mrityu-

1 Aswini 50 54 7 15 42 46 8

2 Bharani 24 28 55 60 48 52 4

3 Krittika 30 34 21 30 54 58 12

4 Rohini 40 44 74 15 52 56 2

5 Mrigasira 14 18 55 60 38 42 6

6 Aridra 11 15 21 30 35 39 14 7 Punarvasu 30 34 73 15 54 58 10

8 Pushyami 20 24 55 60 44 48 16 9 Aslesha 32 26 21 30 56 60 24 10 Makha 30 34 73 15 54 58 20 11 Pubba 20 24 55 60 44 48 22 12 Uttara 18 22 21 30 42 46 2 13 Hasta 22 26 7} 15 45 49 26 14 Chitta 20 24 55 60 44 48 30 15 Swati 14 18 21 30 38 42 38 16 Visakha 14 18 1 8 38 42 38

48 Prasna Marga

Visha- Ushna- Amrita-

No. Asterism ghattka sikha ghatika B. E. B. E. B. E. Mrityu bhaga

17 Anuradha 10 14 52 60 28 34 36 18 Jyeshta 14 18 20 30 38 42 34 19 Moola 20 24 1 8 44 48 32 20 Poorvashadha 24 28 52 60 48 52 42 21 Uttarashadha 20 24 20 30 44 48 44 22 Sravana 10 14 1 8 34 38 46 23 Dhanishta 10 14 52 60 34 38 48 24 Satabhisha 18 22 | 20 30 42 46 50 25 Poorvabhadra 16 20 1 8 40 44 52 26 Uttarabhadra 24 28 52 60 48 52 52 27 Revati 30 34 20 30 54 58 54

[B stands for Beginning and E, for End]

For example : in Aslesha Vishaghatikas commence at 32 ghatis and end at 26 ghatis. The Ushnasikha in Aslesha begins at 21 ghatis and goes on upto 30 ghatis. The Amritaghatikas in Aslesha are between 56 and 60 ghatis. The Mrityubhaga or fatal degrees of Aslesha are those in the 24th ghati.

THE PLACE FACTOR

फलप्रसूनसंपूर्णमहीरुहसमाकुले। विनग्धभूमितले रत्नकाश्चनादिसमन्विने ॥।२२।।

The Place Factor 49

पश्चेन्द्रियमनःप्रीतिकरे गोमयवारिणा। तत्क्षणप्रोक्षितक्षोणितले समवसुन्धरे ।।२३।। मङ्गल्यकर्मसंयुक्त मङ्गलस्त्रीसमाकुले। मन्दिरे पुत्रभार्यादिहृष्टपुष्टजनाश्रिते ।।२४।। यः पृच्छतीदृशे देशे साप्नोत्यभिमतं नुवम् ।।२५।। Stanzas 22 to 25 .- When the spot where the question is put is the following, the querist's object will be realised : sites filled with trees or plants blooming with fruits and flowers and free from all dirt and dust and abounding in gold, gems and the like; a place agreeable to the mind and senses, or a spot washed with diluted cowdung, pleasant spots filled with beautiful women; a happy corner resounding with the echoes of auspicious ceremonies such as marriage, etc., and a healthy home with smiling families.

महावने श्मशानान्ते निस्नोचचे शून्यमन्दिरे। गृहे चार्तजने प्रेतक्रियाद्यशुभकर्मणि ॥२६॥। जलाग्निशुष्कवृक्षान्ते तथैवेन्द्रियचेतसाम् अनिष्टदे प्रदेशे च प्रष्ा नाप्नोत्यभीप्सितम् ।।२७।। Stanzas 26 and 27 .- A dreadful forest, a burn- ing ghat, a bleak and rugged place; a deserted 4

50 Prasna Marga

house, or a home where poverty and disease abound; a place where obsequies are being performed; neighbourhood of water, fire or lifeless trees; and in brief, all spots which sicken our mind and body are bad and the questioner's object will not be realised.

EXAMINATION OF BREATH

कार्य श्वामपरीक्षणं प्रतिदिनं बुध्वा प्रभातागमे तस्येडादिगतिर्धराप्रभृतिसश्चारश्र विज्ञायताम् । तेनात्मीयशुभाशुभं हि सकलं ज्ञेयं पुनः पृच्छतां तत्कालात्मसमीरणेन च तथा नष्टादिकं चोच्यताम्

Stauza 28 .- Everyday the astrologer should examine his breath early in the morning. He should diagnose through which 'Nadi' it passes, and to which Bhuta it can be assigned. From this he can know beforehand what is likely to happen to him that day. In the same manner, the future of the questioner can be read in the case of Nashta Prasna (query regarding lost wealth) and the like, through the nature of the astrologer's breath at the time of query.

Examination of Breath 51

वरेप्विन्दुवुधाद्गिगेभृगुभुवां वामे चरन् मारुतो भौमारकार्किदिनेपु दक्षिणगतो नृणाममीष्ट स्मृतः । सौम्यानां दिवसेत् दक्षिणगतोऽनिष्टो सतां वामगो वक्ष्यन्ने मरु्तोः शुभाशुभदयोमेंदा: फलानामथ ॥२९।।

Stanza 29 .- If the breath is seen to pass through the left nostril on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, it is favourable. If it is through the right nostril on Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday, it is also equally favourable. But if it passes through the right nostril on the days of good planets and through the left nostril on the days of evil planets, the effects will be adverse. Significant happenings can be anticipated by a study of the passing of the breath through the nostrils.

सर्वेपामपि वासरेपु पवनेभीष्टे वपु स्वस्थता लाभोर्थस्य च मृष्टभोजनमितीष्टानां भावोन्यथा। श्वासश्चेदहितो न मृष्टमशनं नार्थागमो विग्रहः सर्वेना शयने सुखेन च सुखंविण्मोक्षणादिष्वपि ।।३०।। Stanza 30 .- If the 'breath' is found favour- able on any day, then be rest assured that his health will be good, he will gain money and he

52 Prasna Marga

will get sumptuous meals and such other favour able things that day. If unfavourable, the effects also will be reverse, i.e., he will not get good food, he will have quarrels with everybody, he will not have sound sleep, nor will he have ease and comfort even in respect of answering calls of nature.

श्वासस्य प्रतिकूलता यदि दिने भानोर्वपुर्वेदना शीतांशो: कलहः कुजस्व मरणं दूरप्रयाणं विदः। राज्यापद्विषणस्य शुक्रदिवसे, कार्यस्य कस्यापि नो सिद्धिर्मन्ददिने स्ववीर्यकृपिनाशोधिवादळादयः ।।३१।।

Stanza 31 .- If the breath is unfavourable on Sundays, he will have pain all over his body; on Mondays, quarrel ; on Tuesdays, death for himself or his relatives; on Wednesdays, distant trips; on Thursdays, some calamities to his country; on Fridays, failure in all his under- takings; and on Saturdays, monetary loss, loss of valour, failure of crops and litigation regarding land. NOTES The great author has explained in the above stanzas the method of prediction by examining the nature of one's breath or swasa. This may seem strange to some but a

Examination of Breath 53

careful scrutiny will bear out its usefulness not only to the astrologer but to the layman at large. Readers are referred to books on Swara Sastra for greater details.

वायुभानुदिनाष्टके यदि चरेद्वामे गुरो: पश्चता व्याधिर्वा सुमहांस्तथैव हिमगोर्वाराष्टके दक्षिणे। पुत्रापत् क्षितिजस्य बन्धनमरेवामे विदो दक्षिणे मृत्यु: म्वस्य निरंन्तरं सुरगुरोर्मृत्युर्गुरो: संभवेद ।३२।।

शुक्रस्यावनिहेतुर्द्धनक्षयो दक्षिण शनेवामे। यदि चरति मातरिश्वा भार्यानाशो निवासनाशो वा॥३३।।

Stanzas 32 and 33 .- If you find on 8 consecu- tive Sundays, that your breathing is through your left nostril, then predict death of or calamity equivalent to death to your Guru (preceptor) or senior relative; on º consecutive Mondays if the breath passes through your right nostril, some ill-luck to your children or junior relations ; on 8 Tuesdays, breath through the left nostril involves imprisonment at the hands of your enemies; on 8 Wednesdays, breath through the right nostril brings in severe illness or even death; on 8 Thursdays, breathing through the right nostril causes danger 1o your Guru; on 8 Fridays, breath through the right nostril causes l oss of

54 Prasna Marga

money in respect of lands; and on 8 Saturdays, breathing through the left nostril brings about the ruin of your house or death of your wife.

NOTES

Some interpret these two stanzas to mean 8 consecutive days from Sunday, Monday, etc. and not 8 consecutive Sundays or 8 consecutive Mondays etc.

मेदिन्या: खलु योडशांगुलमपा दैध्य दिनेशांगुलं वह्वेर्दन्तिमितांगुलं मरुत एतद्द्व्यूनमग्न्यंगुलम्। आकाशस्य च वेद्यमेतदुदितं भूम्यादिभूतात्मक- स्वीयश्वासगतिप्रमाणमुभयोरेतत्समं घ्राणयोः ॥३४।। Stanza 34 .- The dimensions of the five Maha Bhutas (great primordial compounds) are as follows :- Prithvi or earth-16 inches; apa or water-12 inches ; teja or fire-8 inches; vayu or air-6 inches; and akasa or ether-3 inches. This is true of both nostrils. Here 8 inches make one foot.

NOTES

Here the author tells us under what Bhuta the breath can be brought. If the breath thrown out through a parti- cular nostril, measures, say, 16 inches, then it falls 'under Prithvi Bhuta; if 12, under Tejo Bhuta and so on. These

Examination of Breath 55

measurements can be correctly ascertained only by trained Yogis and not by ordinary human beings. The science of breath 'Swara Sastra' is a complete discipline in itself and requires many years of diligent study and practice before it can be mastered.

पक्षेच्छे खलु पक्षतौ क्षितिरिडायातोन्नमन्मन्दिर प्राकारादिगृहप्रवेशनकरी पट्टाभिषेकप्रदा। कुर्यादन्यदपीष्टकर्म मलिलं वामस्थमेवं शुभं कूपादे रचनं कग्ग्रहणमंबूत्यं च कुर्याद्भयम् ।।३५।।

पातं वा शिशुकादिकस्य दहने कुय।द्भजेतेश्वरम् । वायुश्चोरभयं पलायनमपि म्थानं विमृज्यात्मनो दन्त्यश्राद्धिगेहणं च वितर्रव्योमोदयश्चेत् पुनः ॥३६।।

दीक्षा व्याधिममुद्भवश्च नितरां पीडा तनो: सन्ततम् । विज्ञेयं खलदु भूतपश्चकफलं नाडयोः समं चोभयोः श्वासः संहतदार् इष्ट उदितः शीर्यच्छिखो नेष्टद: ।।३७।। Stanzas 35, 36 & 37 .- Suppose on a first lunar day after the New Moon, you discover in your breath passing through your left nostril, the earthly element, then predict good effects such

56 Prasna Marga

as getting good and lofty houses and coronation. If you find the watery element, then say he will have wells and tanks dug up for the use of the people and will celebrate marriages. If it is the fiery element, he will be troubled by enemies, will have wounds from weapons and ulcers, his house will be burnt down, he will fall down from a height and his children will be injured by fire. To avert this, Lord Iswara should be propitiated. If it is airy, there will be fear from thieves, flight from one's native place and there, he will ride horses and elephants. If it is ethereal, he will be initiated into the old mantric lore, will be spend- ing money for building temples and take Diksha though his health may cause him some anxiety. These are the effects of the five elements in both the Nadis. If the breath is long and continuous, it is auspicious. If its tip is broken, it is bad.

भूमौ निखातमवनेरुदये जलेपां वातस्य धूमवति खस्य तथोर्ध्वदेशे। भुपृष्टगं ह्वतमुंजः खलु वास्तु नष्टं ब्रयात् कृतेह यदि नष्टपदार्थपृच्छा ।।३८।। Stanza 38 .- In a query involving loss or theft, one can make use of this (different elements in

Examination of Breath 57

breath) and predict the result boldly. Ifyou find the breath to be earthy (prithvi), then say the lost article is hidden under the earth ; if it is watery. it will be under water; if it happens to be airy, say it is in a smoky corner; if it happens to be 'ethereal', then say that it is somewhere up; and if it is fiery, say it is kept on the ground.

भागे यत्र मरुत्स्थितिः पुनरिह क्षोण्या जले वा यदा भागे तत्र तदेक्ष्यते यदि पुमान् ज्योतिर्विदा कश्न।

दीर्घायुगुणवत्कलत्रतनयः पुष्यद्धनश्राधिकं विज्ञेयः स तथा स्त्रियोपि विपरीतेतः फलं चान्यथा 113811

Stanza 39 .- If the astrologer meets the querist on the same side as his breath of the earthy or watery type, he will be blessed with long life, good wife and children and plenty of wealth. If she is a woman she will have a worthy husband, etc. If, on the other hand, the querist stands on the opposite side or if the breath is of other types, the effect will be quite the reverse.

58 Prasna Marga

ड्डा वामा भवेनाडी मोमस्यार्कस्य दक्षिणा। पिङ्गलाख्या मुपुम्नाग््या मध्यमाग्नेरुदोरिता ।।४०/।

Stanza 40 .- In the left nostril, there is a nerve known as Ida; in the right, Pingala. Through the centre which is covered, there is Sushumna. These are governed by the Moon (Chandra), the Sun (Surya) and fire (Agni) respectively.

निर्गमे तु शुभदा भवेदिडा पिङ्गला तु शुभदा प्रवेशने। योगसाधनविधौ तु मध्यमा, शस्यते न तु परेंषु कर्मसु

Stanza 41 .- Ida is good at the starting time and Pingala is favourable for entering a place. Sushumna is good only for Yogic practices.

देवे दक्षिणभागगेथ पुरुषो गेगातुरो दक्षिणे स्थित्वा पृच्छति पृच्छकेथ पुरुषो जीवत्यगेगश्चिरम्।

वामायां तु रुजाकुलीकृततनौ वामाश्रिते चेधरे वामे पृच्छति चेद्दृटं गतगदा वामा चिरं जीवति ।।४२।।

Stanza 42 .- In a query relating to sickness, if the question comes from the right when the breath

Examination of Breuth 59

passes through the same side, then predict that sickness will be cured. If the question comes from the left when the breath passes through the same sign, predict aggravation of the illness. If the sick person happens to be a woman, it should be from the left side for relief and from the right side for aggravation of the illness.

देवे गते पृच्छति वामभागे स्थितो नरो दक्षिणतो यदि स्यात्। व्यत्यासतोस्मादपि कच्छसाध्यं वद्न्ति सन्तः खलु रोगजातम् ॥४३।

Stanza 43 .- When the question is put from the left and the breath flows through the right or vice versa, then the sick man will get relief only with great difficulty.

अन्तर्गते पृच्छति पृच्छकश्रेद्दे वे नरो जीवतिवीतरोगः । तेनैव मार्गेण बहिर्गतश्रेत् परेतराजस्य पुरीं प्रयाति।।४४।।

Stanza 44 .- If the query is made when the astrologer inhales, then there will be relief; if when he exhales, the sick man will die.

60 Prasna Marga

वामे वा दक्षिण भागे प्रश्नश्वेद्वायुसंयुते ।

जीवेनरश्च नारी च तथानुष्ठानपद्धतिः ।।४५।।

Stanza 45 .- In Anushthana Paddhathi, it is stated that a sick man will get relief if the astro- loger's breath and the side from which the question comes, are in agreement. Here, left side alone is good for women and right side for men.

लयलिङ्गश्रवणेक्षास्मरणाभावे तु दूतमारुतयोः ।

एकदिशावस्थाने जीवति रोगी विपर्यये त्रियते ॥४६॥।

Stanza 46 .- At the time of the query if there is no indication of death, inauspicious sight, talk or thought and if the messenger and the breath are on the same side, the sick person will live; otherwise not.

NOTES

In Kerala, there appears to have been a custom of sending a messenger to take the astrologer home and do Prasna business in the house of the sick man. Hence frequent reference to duta or messenger.

Examination of Breath 61

अग्रे वामेपि च यदुपरि स्यायिना पृछयमानं शुक्ले पक्षे तदिह सकलं लभ्यते चन्द्रचारात्। पृष्ठेधस्तान्नियतमसिने दक्षिणे सूर्यचारा- दात्मावस्थासदृशमखिलं पृच्छकस्यापि वाच्यम् ।।४७।। Stanza 47 .- If the query is made when the Moon is waxing (sukla paksha), the messenger or querist standing in front or in a raised place or on the left side and the astrologer's breath is governed by the Moon (left), then the questioner will have all his desires satisfied. If when the Moon is waning (krishna paksha), the messenger stands below or behind or on the right side and the breath is governed by the Sun (right), then also predict good results. NOTES In all these cases -- questions being put from certain sides when the astrologer's breath passes through certain sides etc .- it will be seen that the effects on the querist will be similar to the experiences or mental conditions of the astrologer at the time.

स्नानभोजननिद्रादिनिजकर्मसु यादशः । आत्मनोनुभवस्तेषु तादृशः प्रधुरुच्यताम्।॥४८।। Stanza 48 .- At the time of query, as the astrologer happens to feel comfortable or other- wise, when doing his daily work such as sleep,

62 Prasna Marga

bath and taking meal, so will be the effects on the questioner.

NOTES

Here the author deviates a little from his main topic (breath) and dwells a little on avastha or mental state.

यत्रकुत्र स्थिनः पृप्ठवा पुनर्द्तः ममारुते। स्थिर्तिष्ठति चेद्रोगी जीवत्येव न संशय ।।४९।।

Stanza 49 .- Irrespective of where the questioner stands or where 'the breath flows, if after putting the query the person stands still and unwavering, predict that the sick-man will not die.

ऐन्द्ाद्यास्तु दिशो ज्ञेया: प्रथिव्याद्युदयेः क्रमात्। आकाशोदयतो मध्यं नष्टं नत्रैव वा स्थितम् ।।५०।।

Stanza 50 .- In a query regarding 'lost wealth', say that the article will be found in the east, south, west or north from the querist's place, according as the nature of the astrologer's breath is earthy, watery, fiery or airy. If the breath is ethereal, then the article will be found somewhere in the middle or in the same place where it was before.

Examination of Breath 63

शुभवारे शुक्कपक्ष सिद्धिदा वामनाडिका । पापवारे कृष्णपक्षे नाडयन्या सिद्धिदािकम् ।५१।। Stanza 51 .- In benefic weekdays when the Moon is waxing, if the breath is in the left, it is good. In malefic weekdays when the Moon is waning, if the breath is in the right, it is also good.

NOTES Benefic weekdays are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday are malefic.

गृहाच्चन्द्रेण निर्यातः प्रविष्टो भानुना रणे । शून्याङ्गे वैरिणं कृत्वा कातगेपि जयी भवेत् ।।५२।। निष्क्रान्तो भानुना गेहात् प्रविष्टः शशिना रण। जीवांशे यस्य वा शत्रः स शूगेपि विनश्यति ॥५३। Stanzas 52 & 53 .- In Yuddha Prasna, if a soldier starts with his breath in his left and reaches the battleground when his breath is on the right, and if his enemy stands on that side where he has no breath, then he will surely defeat his opponent. The reverse will be the effect in reverse position.

NOTES A soldier starting when breathing through his left nostril and reaching the battlefield when he is breathing

64 Prasna Marga

through the right nostril will be victorious; while, if he starts with his breath in his right nostril and reaches the battlefield when his breath is in the left nostril, he is likely to be vanquished, however powerful. In either case, the enemy should be standing on the side where the soldier has no breath.

दस्यवः शत्रवो भूपा: कितवा व्यवहारिणः । एते शून्यगता: सौम्याः पूर्णस्था भयदा: स्मृताः ॥५४॥ Stanza 54 .- Whenever thieves, enemies, kings or those in authority, saints, his brother-gamblers with whom he plays and his rivals in litigation, are put on that side of his nostril through which breath does not pass, they will be utterly power- less to do him any harm. But on the other side, they will inflict defeat on him.

विवादे द्वातयुद्धे च स्नानभोजनमैथुने। व्यवहारे भये भङ्गे भानुनाडी प्रशस्यते ।।५५।। Stanza 55 .-- Right breath is favourable at the time of bathing, eating, cohabitation, transacting business, debating, gambling and fighting. It is also good when you are in fear or disappoint- ment in anything.

यात्रादानविवाहेषु वस्त्रालङ्गारभूपणे । शुभे सन्धौ प्रवेशे च वामनाडी प्रशस्यने ।।५६।।

Examination of Breath 65

Stanza 56 .- Left side breath is good for travel, putting on new dress or ornaments, marriage, bringing about reconciliation, making a gift and entering the presence of another. गर्भिणीदर्शने वायुर्दक्षिणे चेत् पुमान् वधू:। गर्भस्था वामभागे चेद्द्वयोनों चेदसत्प्रजा ।।५७।। Stanza 57 .- When you see a pregnant woman at the time when you breathe through the right, then predict that the child is male; if through left say it is female. If it is in sushumna, predict that she will give birth to a lifeless child. गर्भे मे किमिति प्रश्ने सवायौ गर्भिणी यदि। पुमान् स्त्री वीरणे भागे युग्मं वायुरद्वयोर्यदि ।।५८।। Stanza 58 .- Suppose a pregnant woman asks an astrologer 'what is the sex of the child that I will give birth to', then tell her it is to be male if she asks from the side you have breath. If not, say it will be a female. If breath passes through both sides, then she will give birth to twins. निर्गत्य शशिना गेहात् प्राप्यं प्राप्तस्य भानुना। कार्यस्य दुर्लभस्यापि लाभ: स्यादप्रयत्नतः ॥५९।। Stanza 59 .--- If one wants to succeed easily in any undertaking in life, one should start when the 5

66 Prasna Marga

breath is in the left and reach his destination when the breath is in the right.

रिपोरागमनप्रश्ने वामगे मातरिश्वनि। नागमोनुक्तसिद्वैव तदागतिरतोन्यथा ॥६०।। Stanza 60 .- In a query regarding an invasion, if the breath passes through the left, predict there will be no invasion; if through the right, there will be an attack.

अङ्कयुद्धे ममैतस्मिन् जयो वा किं पराजयः । प्रश्नोयं पूर्णभागे चेज्जयोन्यत्रं पराजयः ॥६१।। Stanza 61 .- To a query whether one will be successful in a friendly dual, if the question is made from the side where there is breath, then say he will succeed.

सन्नहनं निर्गमनं खलूरिकारोहणं च शुभमिडया। पिङ्गलया पुनरितरं प्रहरति यदि वामगं जयो नियतम्

Stanza 62 .- When the breath passes through the left, a wrestler can prepare, start and enter the arena. If he strikes the opponent in the left, when the breath is in the right, success is assured for him.

The 'Touch' Analysed 67

इडयाप्य।रूढवतः खलूरिक्ामेनयैव पुनरपि चेत्। चरति मरुन्ैव जय: प्राग्योदकस्थीयतां तदा तस्य।म् IĘ 311 Stanza 63 .- Even if the contestant enters the ring with the breath in the left nostril, he will be defeated when he moves on with the breath in the same nostril. In such a contingency he should resort to the East or North of the ring in order to avoid defeat.

वायोर। काशसश्चारो गर्भस्थमृतिसूचकः । पृष्वा सवायावन्यत्र स्थितौ चासत्प्रजां वढेत् ॥६४।।

Stanzu 64 .- In a question pertaining to birth of issue, when the astrologer's breath is ethereal, say the child in the womb will die. If the person asks the question from the side where there is breath and passes to the side where there is no breath, then predict that a lifeless child would be delivered.

THE 'TOUCH' ANALYSED

प्रष्टा वाक्षोदेशे स्पृशेद्यदि क्षिप्रमीप्सितं लभते। मङ्गलवस्तुनि च तथा विपरीतं फलममझ़लस्पर्शे ।।६५।।

68 Prasna Marga

Stanza 65 .- If at the time of query the questioner is feeling with his hand his chest or breast or any auspicious object, then predict good. If not, evil results will happen.

NOTES

In this stanza, the method is switched on to sparsa or touch.

गुद्यपृष्ठस्तनश्रीवाजठरानामिकांगुलीः ॥६६।। रन्ध्राणामपि नवकं करपदयोस्तलं च सर्वपर्वाणि। प्रष्टा लभतेनिष्टं निम्नस्पर्शे तथैव विज्ञेयम् ॥६७।। Stanzas 66 and 67 .- If he touches his own navel, nose, mouth, locks of hair on his head or hair anywhere in his body, nails, teeth, private parts, anus (q), breasts, neck, stomach, ring finger, the nine openings in his body, the palm of his hand, the soles of his feet and joints in his body, or any depression, then predict evil.

प्रागादिदिक्षु मूद्धदिष्वङ्गेष्वष्टसु च स्थिताः । ध्वजाद्यास्तत्स्थितिस्पर्शफलमप्यथ कथ्यते ॥६८।। Stanza 68 .- The eight cardinal points and the eight bodily limbs have their counterparts

The 'Touch' Analysed 69

symbolised in the eight Yonis like Dhwaja, Dhuma, etc. Results good or bad happen when these points are touched by the questioner.

ध्वजो धूमश्र मिंहश्च सारमेयो वृषः स्वरः। दन्ती काक: क्रमादेते दिशास्ैन्द्ादिषु स्थिता ॥६९।। Stanza 69 .- Dhwaja (flag), Dhuma (smoke), lion, dog, bull, an ass and cow, an elephant corres pond respectively to east, south-east, south, south-west, west, north-west, north and east.

मूर्भि ध्वजो घ्राणपुटे तु धूम श्वास्ये हरिः श्रोत्रद्दशो: श्रसंज्ञः । कण्ठे वृष: पाणियुगे खरश्च गजश्च हृद्यंघ्रियुगेथ काक: ।।७०।। Stanza 70 .- The head, nose, mouth or face, eyes or ears, neck, arms or hands, chest and legs symbolically correspond respectively to Dhwaja, Dhuma, etc., mentioned in stanza 69.

NOTES

In these three stanzas, there is some sort of an allo- cation of the eight main limbs to the eight cardinal points and the sex organs of eight animals. The touching

70 Prasna Marga

of any of these parts by the questioner seems to imply the success or otherwise of the object in view. The following is a tabular representation of the allocations suggested in the above stanzas :-

Direction Yoni Limb

East Dhwaja Head South-east Dhuma Nose South Lion Mouth or face South-west Dog Eyes or ears West Bull Neck North-west Ass Arms, hands North Elephant Chest, breast North-east Crow Legs

केतुस्थो ध्वजसिंहगो वृषगजस्थानानि देहे स्पृशन् संप्राप्तोति नरः क्रमेण धनगोयानानि भूषामापिे.। सिंहस्थोपि च सिंहगो वृशकरिश्रेष्ठध्वजान् संस्पृश- न्नायाति प्रतिपक्षनाशकमलसत्पुत्रबन्ध्वागमान् ।।७१।। Stanza 71 .- If the questioner stands in the east and touches his own head, then predict monetary gains; his mouth, gain of cows; his neck, gift of vehicles; chest, gift of ornaments. If the questioner stands in south and touches his face or mouth, destruction of enemies; neck, monetary gains; chest, begetting good children; head, arrivai of relatives.

The 'Touch' Analysed 71

गच्छेद्रोवृषसिन्धुरध्वजहरिस्पर्शेन तिष्ठन् घृषे सद्योमौ वृषयानधातृदयितामित्रात्पिमव्याहताम्। दन्तिम्यो गजकेतुमिंहव्ृषभस्थानं स्पृशन् पाणिना यायाद्दन्तिविभूषणोत्तमसुहृत्सत्पृत्रलाभान् क्रमात् ।७२।। Stanza 72 .- If the questioner stands in the west and touches his head, gain of knowledge; mouth, acquisition of friends ; neck, gift of cows; chest, gain of vehicles. If the questioner stands in the north and touches his head, ornaments; mouth, good friends; neck, good children ; chest, acquisition of elephants or elephant-ride.

धूमस्थोपि च धूमकुक्कुरखरध्वाङ्क्षप्रदेशान् स्पृशन्

श्वारूढ: शवस्वरामिधानवलिशुग्धूमस्थलानि स्पृशन् व्याधिं पुत्रविनाशमेति विपदं वित्तक्षयं मानवः ।।७३।। Stanza 73 .- If the questioner stands in south- east and touches his nose, danger to life; eyes and ears, fear of troubles; arms, breaking of vows; and legs, ruin of one's family. If the questioner stands in south-west and touches his nose, loss of money; eyes and ears, sickness; arms, loss of chil dren; and legs, danger.

72 Prasna Marga

स्प्रष्टा गर्दभकाकधूमशुनकान् मर्त्यः स्थितो गर्दमे सद्यो याति विवाद गोहतिमहाशस्त्रार्तिभार्यारूजः। काकस्थोपि च काकधूमभषकस्थानं स्पृशन् गर्दमं भन्ध्वार्ति द्विजभङ्गमेति च मृतिं नीचातनूजापदम्।।७४।। Stanza 74 .- If the questioner stands in north- west and touches his nose, fear from fearful weapons; eyes and ears, wife's sickness; arms, litigation or dispute; and legs, killing cow. If the questioner stands in the north-east and touches his nose breaking of teeth ; eyes and ears, death from evil-minded people; arms, danger to children; and legs, sickness to relation.

ध्वजहरिवृषदन्तिस्थो धूमश्वखराख्यवायसस्पर्शी। विपरीतो वा याति च विपदं वा सम्पद च नात्यन्तम्

Stanza 75 .- If the questioner, standing in east south, west or north, touches nose, eyes, arms or legs respectively or standing in south-east, south- west, north-west or north-east, touches neck, chest, head or mouth respectively, the effects will neither be very bad nor very good.

Sign Occupied by Querist 73

शास्त्रान्तरमपीहास्ति दूतदैवविदोर्दशा। यादृशी तादृशी वाच्या दशा व्याधिमतामपि ।७६।। Stanza 76 .- In any query regarding longevity, the cure of a sick man will depend on the Avastha, state of the messenger or astrologer at the time of query.

SIGN OCCUPIED BY QUERIST

पृच्छकािष्ठितं राशिं विज्ञायानेन पृच्छताम्। अनुभूतं हि वक्तव्यं किमपि प्रत्ययाप्तये।।७७।। Stanza 77 .- In order to create conviction in the questioner, the astrologer should study the Arudha Lagna and read therefrom what experience the questioner had on the way. राहुर्वार्कि: पृच्छकाधिष्ठितर्क्षे यदा तस्मात् पश्चमे वाष्टमे

चण्डालानां पंक्तिरग्रे प्रदष्टा शूद्रा दष्टास्तत्र चेद्भूमिजज्ञौ

Stanza 78 .- If Rahu or Saturn is in Arudha or fifth or eighth house from it, then the messenger might have seen very low people on his way. If Mars or Mercury stands at the above positions, he might have met people belonging to Sudra caste.

74 Prasna Marga

लग्नसुताष्टसंस्थौ गुरुशुक्रौ चेद्विजादिभियोंगः । पापयुतौ दृष्टौ चेद्दुब्राह्मणतन्तुधारिभिर्योगः॥७९।। Stanza 79 .- If Jupiter or Venus is in Arudha or 5th or 8th from it, then Brahmins must have been seen. If these are associated with or aspec_ ted by evil planets, then thread-wearing Hindus.

अर्के यद्येषु नृपैश्रन्द्रसितौ चेत्प्विया योगः । चन्द्रार्कजौ स्थितौ चेद्दुष्टस्त्रीभि: सितः कुलस्त्रीभिः॥८०॥ Stanza 80 .- If the Sun, then distinguished personages or officials; if the Moon or Venus, then a woman. If the Moon and Saturn are together there, he might have seen bad women; if Venus (without any evil planets), chaste women.

अशुभशुभदृष्टियोग।त्तज्ञातीयेश्र योगमपि विद्यात्। दूतस्य चेष्टयातः परं वदेल्लक्षणं दिशागतया। इति॥।८१॥ Stanza 81 .- The nature of the people he has met on the way depends on the association or aspects of evil or good planets. Further, predic- tions will have to be made from the direction of querent and his gesticulations.

Sign Occupied by Querist 75

अर्कष्टमे बहुजनैनृपसेनया वा याते रवेरहनि नृनमुपद्रवोभूद्। जीवांशके नृपतिनेति वदेदिनांश।- द्वात्वादिवस्तुविहतिश्र विचिन्त्य वाच्या ।८२।।

Stanza 82 .- If the Sun occupies the eighth house from the Arudha, then predict royal dis- pleasure or trouble from the army and this must have happened on the previous Sunday. If he occupies Jiva Navamsa, then say it was the ruler himself. Predict also some loss befitting the Navamsa the Sun occupies-Dhatu, Jeeva or Moola (mineral, vegetable or animal).

NOTES

In odd signs (Aries, Gemini, Leo, etc.) the Ist, 4th and 7th Navamsas refer to Dhatu (mineral), the 2nd, 5th and 8th refer to Moola (animal) and the 3rd, 6th and 9th refer to Jeeva (vegetable). In even signs (Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, etc.) the 1st, 4th and 7th refer to Jeeva (vegetable), the 2nd, 5th and 8th to Moola (animal) and the 3rd, 6th and 9th to Dhatu (mineral).

In 80 ag has been translated as distinguished per- sonality or officer.

76 Prasna Marga

अष्टमस्थे निशानाथे प्रथुरवाच्यमभोजनम्। यवागूपानमात्रं वा गते चन्द्रस्य वासरे।।८३।। Stanza 83 .- If the Moon occupies the eighth house, then say that the querist had to starve on the previous Monday or he had to live on mere rice-water.

NOTES

According to the commentator, if the Moon was strong then the querist would have lived on rice-water.

आरेष्टमे पदभ्रंशो मान्दियुक्तरस चेत् क्षतिः । धात्वांशेसृजि शस्त्रेण मूलांशे कण्टकादिना।।८४।।

वाच्या जीवांशके दन्तनखाद्यैरंशकोदितः । सरीसृपांशे तदंशो वारस्य गतवासरे ।।८५।।

Stanzas 84 and 85 .- If Mars is in the 8th, then the questioner had a fall. Mars with Gulika reveals that the person was wounded severely. According as Mars occupying a dhatu, moola or jeeva or sarisripa Navamsa, the querist was hurt by some weapon, lacerated by thorns, scratched or wounded by nail or teeth or was bitten by a snake or scorpion, on the previous Tuesday.

Sign Occupied by Querist 77

NOTES

Sarisripa Navamsas are Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.

अष्टमस्थे विधो: पुत्रे भङ्ग इष्टस्य कर्मणिः । मूलांशे पूगतांबूलनाशोऽभावोथवानयोः ॥८६॥। घात्वंशे वपुषः सादो वाच्यो जीवांशके पुनः। पारुष्यं वचसश्चूणोभावो वा गतविहिने ।।८७। Stanzas 86 and 87 .- If Mercury occupies the 8th from Arudha Lagna, the questioner was obstructed in his work the previous Wedoesday. According as Mercury is in Moola, Dhatu or Jeeva Navamsa, the questioner had to lose or be without betel leaves and nuts, or was sick, or had to exchange harsh words or be without chunam (lime).

रन्ध्रस्थितेऽमराचार्ये नित्यकर्मविलम्बनम्। द्विजानां द्रव्यनाशो वा वाच्यं गुरुदिने गते।८८।

भुगुपुत्रेष्टमं प्राप्ते वियोग: प्रिययोषिता। वक्तव्यो वस््नाशश्र तत्र धात्वंशगे भृगौ।।८९॥

वसने पङ्कसम्पर्कोजीवांशेऽस्य नखक्षतिः । पिपीलिकाखुवाभ्रादैः क्षतिरंशे सरीसृपे।।९०।।

78 Prasna Marga

कण्टकादेस्तु मूलांशे यद्ा जीवांशगे पुनः। अन्यम्मै वस्त्रदानं वा गतासन्ने भृगोढिने।।९१।। अष्टमस्थे रवेः पुत्रे वाच्यं भुक्तिविळम्बनम्। अत्य।पत्तिश्र मन्दस्य समीपस्थे गतेऽहनि ॥९२।। Stanzas 88 to 92 .- If Jupiter stands on the eighth, say on the last Thursday his performance of daily religious duties was delayed (in the case of twice-born) or there was loss of articles. If Venus is in the 8th house, he had separation from his beloved or loss of clothes or his clothes were soiled by dirt. If he is in Moola Navamsa, his clothes were torn by thorns. If he occupies Jeeva Navamsa, they were torn by his finger nails or he gave them away as gifts. Ifhe occupies Sarisripa Navamsa, his clothes were bitten by mice or eaten away by white ants on the previous Friday. If Saturn stands on the eighth from Arudha, say that he had to take food very late or had to face a great danger on Saturday last. रन्घ्रगे मिंहिकासूनौ वाच्या पादव्यथा पथि। मूलांशे कण्टकेन पाधार्त्वंशेश्माभिघाततः ।।९३।। जीवांशे सध्वसं सर्पात् गत्ते मन्दस्य वासरे। केतौ रन्ध्रस्धिते वाच्यं पादे पापाणघट्टनम्।।९४।।

Sign Occupied by Querist 79

मान्दियुक्तोत्र केतुश्चेत्पादो नूनमभिद्यत। भौम्यसाम्यात्फले केतोर्गते भौमस्य वासरे॥।९५।। Stanzas 93, 94 and 95 .- If Rahu stands on the eighth, say that his legs were affected by some pain on the way. If he stands on dhatu Navamsa, say it was caused by stones. If he stands in moola Navamsa, some thorns pierced into his feet. If he is in Jeeva navamsa, the querist was bitten by a serpent on the previous Saturday. If Kethu stands on the eighth house, say that his legs dashed against rocks last Tuesday. If he is with Gulika, then predict that his legs were very much wounded.

पापस्तृतीयसंस्थश्चेद्वक्तव्यं स्यादुपोषणम्। गते तु तत्तदिविसे सुविचार्थैवमादिशेत् ॥।९६।। Stanza 96 .- If evil planets occupy the third house from Arudha, then the questioner had to fast on the days governed by such planets.

व्ययः पष्ठंस्तृतीयं च भावा नेष्टा यथाष्टमः । दिनेष्वनिष्टसंस्थानां यातेष्वशुभदं वदेत् ।।९७।। Stanza 97 .- The third, sixth and twelfth houses are also evil as eighth house. Hence predict evil to have happened last week allotting

80 Prasna Marga

suitable days to those planets that occupy the above houses. NOTES These stanzas are clear enough and they do not need any explanations. The situation of the different planets in the 3rd, 6th, 8th and 12th houses from Arudha Lagna and in certain Navamsas indicate the happenings-some trivial- on certain week-days, pertaining to the planets concerned. Readers may test these principles and find out for themselves, the usefulness of these combinations in the modern age. We can illustrate with a chart here. Suppose at the time of query Aquarius is the Arudha Lagna. Sun 4 Merc. 19 Venus 16 Jup. 5 Moon 6' Saturn Rahu Kethu 14-32

Arudha Lagoa Mars 1 Mars

17-3-1978 NAVAMSA

Saturn 2-52 Sun

Moon Rabu 14-32 Mercury Jupiter Kethu Venus

Rahu is in the 8th in Rasi and in Taurus Navamsa which is the 5th Navamsa. Virgo being an even sign, the 5th Navamsa would belong to Moola or vegetable. So, the querent can be expected to have trodden over thorns which must have pierced through his soles while on his way to the astrologer.

Sign Occupied by Querist 81

इष्टस्थितानां वारेषु शुभप्राप्ति च निर्दिशेत् । उदयेनैष्यव, रेषु फलमप्येवम दिशेत् ।। इति। ॥९८।। Stanza 98 .- Suppose planets occupy favour- able houses, then predict good as having happened on the days governed by the occupants. These predictions can also be made from Udayalagna, in which case, predict good or bad on the ensuing weekdays.

द्यूनस्थेष्वशुभेषु दुष्टशकुनं सौम्येषु तच्छोभनं दूतारूढवश।दसुष्य कथयेत् प्रश्नाधिरूढेन वा। कम रूढसुखस्थितै्बलयुतैरप्येव मादिश्यतां यातुरवा शकुनं शुभाशुभमिति प्रस्थानलग्नाद्वदेत् ।।९९।। Stanza 99 .- In Prasna Bhasha it is stated thus: If there are strong malefics in the 7th from the Arudha of the messenger or query, he must have had bad omens; if benefics, good ones. The same results can be read from planets in the 4th and 10th from Arudha. The omens at a journey can be read from the Ascendant at the time of starting and the 4th and the 10th therefrom. The same results can be read from planets in the 4th and 10th from Arudha. 6

82 Prasna Marga

तत्रस्थे चतुरंघ्रिसंज्ञ विहगे मातङ्रपश्च,दयोभ्यायाताः पथि पक्षिसंज्ञखचरे दृष्टाश्रकोरादयः । सूर्यारौ तु चतुष्पदौ निगदितौ मन्देन्दुजौ पक्षिणौ शीतांशुस्तु सरीसृपोष्टचरणः शास्त्े प्रदिष्टः फर्णा

Stanza 100 .- If the Sun and Mars occupy 1, 4, 7 and 10, then say he has met some quadrupeds like elephants or cows as indicative signs on his way. Mercury and Saturn are bird-planets and indicate birds like chakoras'. The Moon indicates serpents or scorpions and Rahu, spiders.

NOTES

It must be noted that if Jupiter or Venus occupies such a position, the questioner must have come across some human being.

चण्डालाभ्यागमो यद्हिशिखिगुळिकत्रध्नजस्तत्र संस्थाः शुकेन्दु चेद्ववूनां यदि शशितनयस्तत्र विद्वज्नानाम्।

विप्राणां वाक्पतिश्चेद्यदि धरणिसुतः शस्त्रिणां कीर्तनीयो वर्त्मन्यभ्यागमः प्रार्यदि पुनररुण: श्रष्ठयभाजां जनानाम् इति॥१०१।

Direction Occupied by Querist 83

Stanza 101 .- If Saturn, Rahu, Ketu or Gulika occupies 1, 4, 7, 10, say he met low-caste people on his way. If the Moon and Venus occupy the above houses, say that he has met women on the way. If it is Mercury, say he met learned men. Brahmins. If it is Jupiter, he met pious Mars indicates soldiers. The Sun represents men of distinction.

DIRECTION OCCUPIED BY QUERIST

पृच्छकस्य दिशि स्थानं विशेषाच्छुभदं नृणम्। पृचछकस्य स्थितिः कोणे प्रश्ने स्त्रीविषये शुभा ।।९०२।।

Stanza 102 .-- If the messenger puts in his question from east, south, west or north, it is good. If he occupies south-east, south-west, north-west or north-east, it is bad. This applies to men only. The reverse holds good for women.

दक्षिणाशाभिमुख्यं च प्रषुर्यमदिशि स्थितिः।

अशुभया भवेन्नूनमायुः प्रश्ने विशेषतः ॥१०३।

Stanza 103 .- If the questioner faces or stands in the south, it indicates evil especially regarding the question of longevity.

84 Prasna Marga

PRANAKSHARA

आकाशावायुवह्नयर्णपूर्व तद्ण पूर्वकम्। भूतार्थवाचकश्चापि वचनं न शुभप्रदम् ।॥१०४।। Stanza 104 .- If the first syllable or Gana of the words uttered by the querent happens to be one owned by any of the Bhutas-Akasa, Vayu, Agni, Apa and Prithvi, the effect of the query will not be happy.

NOTES

Gana is a term used in prosody, where there are 8 syllable groups, viz., (1) Ma, (2) Ya, (3) Ra, (4) Sa, (5) Ta. (6) Ja, (7) Bha and (8) Na.

आद्यैस्सरैस्तु कादैश्र वर्गैर्भिन्ना लिपिद्विंधा। सरा जीवस्तनुर्वर्गा इति जञेया च मातृका ।१०५।। Stanza 105 .- The alphabet is divided under two heads, viz., the vowels headed by Aa (3T) and the consonants headed by the gutterals ($) including the liquids, semi-vowels and sibilants. The vowels constitute the 'Life' and consonants the 'Body'.

प्रश्नवाक्यं खरादं चेज्ज्ञेयं जीवगतं शुभम्। दोषश् देहविषयो हलादं चेदतोन्यथा॥१०६।।

Pranakshara 85

Stanza 106 .--- If the sentence of a query begins with a vowel,the query may be about the person's longevity and the effect will be beneficial. The trouble, if any, is only physical. Similarly if the sentence begins with a consonant, the trouble is not so much with the body as with his longevity.

वर्गेश्वक्षरपश्चकं पवनवन्हीन्द्रांबुनापुंसकं। वाक्यादौ तु नपुंसकाक्षरमतीवानिष्टदं पृच्छताम्।। दुष्टौ मारुतपावकौ वलरिपुर्मध्यः प्रशस्तं जलं दीर्घह्रस्वविभागतः स्वरगणाश्राम्भोमहेन्द्रात्मकाः ॥इति ।।१०७।| Stanza 107 .-- The five vargas or groups of consonants have five syllables each presided over by Vayu, Agni, Indra, Jala and Napumsaka. If the first letter of the question happens to fall under Napumsaka, the result will be extremely bad; if under Vayu and Agni, evil results befall; if under Indra, neutral effect; if under water, favourable results. In vowels too, the short and long belong respectively to Indra and Jala.

NOTES The five vargas or groups of consonants are :- Kavarga : (Gutterals) Ka, Kha, Ga, Gha, Gna Chavarga : (Labials) Cha, Chcha, Ja, Jha, Jna

86 Prasna Marga

Pavarga : (Palatals) Pa, Pha, Ba, Bha, Ma Tavarga : (Dentals) Ta, Tta, Da, Dda, Na Thavarga : (Linguals) Ta, Tha, Da, Dha, Na In each varga, the first to last syllable is presided over respectively by Vayu (air), Agni (fire), Indra, Jala (water) and Napumsaka (eunuch). If for instance, you take Kavarga, the letters Ka, Kha, Ga, Gha and Jna are ruled by Air, Fire, Indra, Water and Napumsaka respectively. Suppose the first letter of a certain query commences with the letter ma, the result will be harmful as the syllable is presided over by Napumsaka or eunuch. In this way, other syllables should be interpreted. The syllables ya, ra, la, va, sa, sha, sa, ha, la and ksha have similar lords as mentioned above. Assign short vowels $ 3 I to Indra Bhuta and आ ई ऊ ऋ स to Jala Bhuta.

मध्यान्तादयखिलेषु गाजसभमा: सूर्यानिलेन्दुक्षमा देवा स्फीतरुगन्यदेशगमनप्रख्यातकीर्तिश्रियः । तद्वत्स्युर्लघधो गुणा रतयना वह्मयम्बरांभोदिवो मर्त्याःस्युरमृतिशून्य तोत्तमममृर्ध्यायृंपि ते तन्वते। इति

Stanza 108 .-- Ganas Presiding Deities Effects

Jhagana (u-u) The Sun (Surya) Increase of illness

Pranakshara 87

Ganas Presiding Deities Effects Sagana (u u-) Air (Vayu) Going to another country Bhagana (-uu) The Moon World-wide (Chandra) renown Magana ( ---- ) Earth (Bhoomi) Prosperity Ragana (-u -- ) Fire (Agni) Death Thagana ( -- u) Ether (Akasa) Emptiness or poverty Yagana (u -- ) Watar (Jala) Exceptional prosperity Nagana (uuu) Heaven Long Life (Swarga)

NOTES This sloka is from the Anushtanapaddhati. Letters are divided into hard (guru) and soft (laghu) ones. Long ones are said to be hard and short ones soft. In the word uttered by the questioner, the first three letters make up a gana. Ganas are divided into eight on the basis of soft and hard ores. For instance in stanza 108, 1st line of the three letters constituting Jhagana, the first (u) is laghu or soft, the second is guru or hard and the third is laghu the whole Jhagana being ruled by the Deity Sun. Likewise in the Sagana the first letters (u u) are soft and the

88 Prasna Marga

third (-) hard. In Magana all the three letters (- - -) are hard (guru). In the words uttered by the questioner, take the first three letters and fit them to the above classi- fication of ganas and then give appropriate prediction. With due deference to the author and his cminent desciples I must confess that the method given in stanza 108 is not easily applicable in actual practice.

श्रोत्रग्रियं वदति वा वचनं शुभं वा यद्वार्थपुष्टगिरमस्खलितां तद नीम्। प्रष्टाभियात्यभिमतं त्वितरोनभीष्टमन्ते विसर्गसहितं वचनं च वक्त्ता ॥१०९।।

Stanza 109 .- If the questioner utters words that are very pleasing to the ears. auspicious coherent and expressive, predict success of his undertaking; therwise not. If his sentence closes with a Visarga, then too the effect will be unfavourable.

प्रष्टुरवाक्यादिवर्णन लग्नं संगृद्य चामुना । वाच्यं शुभाशुभं सवे तत्प्रकाऽथ कथ्यते ॥११०॥

Stanza 110 .- Moreover find out the Lagna from the first letter of the querent's statement and then predict the results, good or bad as the case may be.

Pranakshara 89

अकचटतपया वर्गा रविकुजासितसौम्यजीवसौराणाम्। चन्द्रस्य च निर्दिष्टं प्रश्ने प्रथमोद्द्वं वर्णम् ॥१११।।

Stanza 111 .- There are seven Vargas, viz., Aa (अ), ka (क), cha (च), ta (त), tha (ट), pa (9) and ya (") belonging to the Sun, Mars, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn and the Moon respectively.

ज्ञात्वा तस्माल्लग्नं संगृद्य शुभाशुभं वदेत्प्रध्ुः । वर्गादि मध्यचरमैर्वर्णः प्रथमोन्भवैर्विषमम् ।११२।। Stanza 112 .- By a consideration of this varga division, ascertain the Lagna on the basis of the first, second and third letters and answer the questioner.

राशिं लग्नं प्रवदेच्छिष्टैर्युग्मं कुजज्ञजीवानाम्। सितरविजयोश्र नैवं रविशशिनोरेकराशित्वात् ।।११३।।

Stanza 113 .- In the case of Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn, each having two signs, take their odd or even signs according as the syllable is odd or even in the Vargas. In the case of the luminaries, there is no such difference, as they own only one house each. तस्माल्लग्नात्प्रवदेत् पृच्छासमये शुभाशुभं सर्वम्। कालस्याविज्ञान।देतचिन्त्यं बहु प्रश्ने॥११४।।

90 Prasna Marga

Stanza 114 .- This plan is made use of when neither the Arudha nor the Udaya Lagna is known. So too when there are many questions put practically at the same time. NOTES Some sort of a connection is established becween sound vibrations and the zodiacal signs. There are seven vargas ar groups of letters. Planet Varga letters commencing from Sun ई 花 15 अ आ उ

aa i ee 00 ri rii

लु लू ए ओ ओ

lu lo0 e ai 0 oW

Mars ख घ

k kha ga gha gna Venus छ ज झ

cha chha ja jha nya

Mercury z லு

ta tah da dah na

Jupiter त थ न

tha thha da dha na

Saturn प फ ब म

pa pha ba bha ma

Moon य ल व श प स ह ळ

ya ra la va sa sha sa ha la

The Querisi's Bearing 91

According to sanza 111, the above vargas are ruled by the Sun, Mars, Venus. Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn and the Moon respectively. Stanza 112 is interpreted by different scholars in different ways. Mr. P. G. S. Iyer who assisted me in translating this work and who was well versed in Malayalam and Sanscrit, thinks that by taking the first word in the query and tracing it to the varga concerned and thence to the planet, the Lagna should be found out. Suppose the first word of a query commences with Aa (3T) : the presiding planet being the Sun, the Lagna would be Leo. In regard to two signs owned by a planet, the odd or even position of the first letter in the appropriate varga should be taken. Suppose a query commences with ba (a); it is the third letter in Pavarga : presided over by Saturn. Since 3 is an odd number, you must take Aquarius, the odd sign, as Lagna. If instead, the query commences with bha (): This is the 4th letter and 4 being an even number, the Lagna will be Capricorn, the even sign owned by Saturn. This method of ascertaining Lagna should be resorted to in the absence of Arudha or Udaya Lagnas or when a number of queries are put simultaneously. Stanzas 112 to 114 are taken from Prasna Gnana of Bhattotpala.

THE QUERIST'S STHITI OR BEARING

वामांघिरग्रे निहितः शुभः स्याद्दूतस्य दोपाय च दक्षिणांघिः ।

92 Prasna Marga

दोषाय चांध्रेश्चलनं हि तस्य स्थितिः स्थिरा तस्य शुभप्रदा स्यात् ॥११५।। Stanza 115 .- Watch the questioner as to how he stands. If he puts his left foot in front, then predict it to be good; if he places his right foot in front, it is bad. If he shakes his leg, it is productive of evil only. If he stands firmly, it is wholesome.

सुखोपविष्ट ऋज्बङ्गस्तुङ्गदेशे शुभासने। देवज्ञाभिमुखश्रैव शुभं यात्यन्यथाऽशुभम्॥११६॥ Stanza 116 .- If he sits at ease, straight, facing the astrologer in an elevated place and on a good seat, it is good. If he sits in a low place on a bad seat, then it is bad.

उत्तिष्टति यदि प्रश्नं कुर्वन्नासीत आसनात्। स्थितश्चोपविशेत कुर्वन् भद्रमेवोभयं मतम् ।११७। Stanza 117 .- If the querist puts a question seated, then stands up or makes the query stand- ing and then sits down, the results will be good.

प्रष्टा दृष्टिपथं प्राप्य स्थित्वा स्थित्वागमद्यदि। अतीत्य स्थितिसंख्याहान्यस्य कार्यस्य साधनम् ॥११८।।

The Querist's Behaviour Pattern 93

Stanza 118 .- Suppose the questioner having come within the orbit of the astrologer's vision halts here and there, then predict 'delay' by the number of days corresponding to the number of his halts.

अन्तरा दूतमात्मानं यदि कश्चन गच्छति । अनागमं सहायस्य कल्पितस्यास्य निर्दिशेत् ॥११९॥ Stanza 119 .- Suppose a stranger crosses between the astrologer and the questioner, then failure of the expected help should be predicted.

THE QUERIST'S BEHAVIOUR PATTERN

हस्तौ धून्वन् विमृदश् तिरश्रीनमुखः स्थितः । विस्मृतस्वार्थ इत्येतैर्यत्पृष्टं तद्विनश्यति ॥१२०।

Stanza 120 .- Suppose the questioner shakes or wrings his hands or rubs them, or looks side- ways, or he forgets the object of his visit, then puts in the query after much hesitation, then predict failure.

स्वाङ्गेष्वन्यत्र वा द्रव्ये गाढसंताडनं क्षणात्। मृत्युदं लयलिङ्गानां चिन्तेक्षाश्रवणादिकम् ॥१२१।।

94 Prasna Marga

Stanza 121 .- Suppose suddenly he strikes hard his own body or anything near him, then predict death. The effect is the same when there is a thought, sight or news of indications of death.

सुप्ते मुक्तकचेऽशुचौ रुदति वा भग्नागमे सुण्डिते नग्ने छिन्दति निन्दति द्रवति वा वह्लौ हविर्जुह्वति। दूते हस्तपदां च बन्धनपरे दोष्णाक्षि संमर्दने दीने काष्ठतृणादिमर्दनपरे न स्याद्विचारः शुभः ॥१२२॥

Stanza 122 .- Suppose he feels sleepy or is unclean, or is weeping, or has his hair dishevelled or has his face cut or has head shaved clean or stands naked or bemoans his fate or is engaged in cutting or flees in fear or performs his Homa to Agni or ties up something round his legs or hands, or frequently rubs his eyes with his hands or feels despondent or is seen trampling on a piece of wood or a bunch of grass, then know that the effects will be evil.

पाशोद्वर्तनके नखैलिखति वाप्युत्सारिते वारिते साभ्यङ्गे भासिताम्थिसीसशकतां भर्तर्यपि व्याघिते।

The Querist's Behaviour Pattern 95

वस्त्रप्रावृतकन्धरे च मलिने रूक्षाशुभालापिनि प्रश्नो नैव शुभाय निर्वपति वा पिण्डान् परेतान् प्रति ॥१२३।

Stanza 123 .- If the questioner is found engaged in twisting a rope, marking the ground with his nails, is forced to change his place or is obstructed, has his body smeared with oil, engaged in carrying ashes or bones, lead or dung, or dis- covered to be sickly; has a cloth wound up round his neck; has his body painted with mud: is found uttering unpleasant and harsh sounds or words; is found performing Sraddha; then you can very well count that you have nothing good to predict.

शृद्गस्यापि च वाहकें च विकले संमार्जनीधारिणि। प्रेतालंक्रतिशूर्पपाशमुसलान भर्तरथुपते क्षुधा दैवज्ञेपि च पृच्छके न च शुभो जेयो विचार: कचित् ।।१२४।।

Stanza 124 .- Suppose he has with him a knife or a sword, a bundle of hay, net, chaff, shoes, peacock feathers, leather, decorations of

96 Prasna Marga

dead body, horn, broom, winnowing basket, ropes, pestles, or he is found to be starving or is crippled, then also predict evil.

QUERIST'S MOOD OR BHAVA दौर्मृख्यं वदनारूढशोककोपश्रमादिभिः । वैमनस्यं च दूतस्य येनकेनापि दोषकृत्।१२५।। Stanza 125 .- If he has his face distorted either by anger or sorrow or exertion, or if his mind is much worried, then also effects will be bad.

सुन्दरश्व कुलीनश्र विनयी च निरामयः । सुप्रसन्नश्चदूतश्रेत्प्रष्टा सुखामवाप्नुयात् ॥१२६।। Stanza 126 .- If the messenger or questioner is handsome, healthy and modest, has the mark of nob'e birth and breed and possesses a happy face, then take these as good and predict accordingly.

उन्मिषदम्बकयुगळो मङ्गलपदार्थ दृढथरनिहितेक्षः। अध ऊर्ध्वक्षणरीहतो लभतेभीष्टं प्रतीपदृग्दुःस्म् ।१२७॥ Stanza 127 .- If his eyes are opening wide or he is looking at auspicious objects, and is free from downward or upward looks, then predict

Dress and Garments 97

good effects. If his eyes are half-closed, if he looks at dirty or inauspicious things, or looks upwards or downwards, the results will be very bad.

DRESS AND GARMENTS

नोयार्द्रभिन्नमलिनारुणनीलवासा रक्तप्रसूनभृदपि व्यसनं प्रयाति। वास: सितं सुरभिगौरसुमानुलेपभूषा दधच् खलु मङ्गलमेति नूनम् ॥१२८।।

Stanza 128 .- If the questioner puts on wet, torn, dirty clothes, in red or blue colour, or decorates himself with red flowers, the Prasna effects will be sorrowful. If he has white neat clothes, fine ornaments, fragrant white flowers and rich perfumes on his person, then the effects will be good.

विभ्राणो मङ्गलद्रव्यं पृच्छको याति मङ्गलम्। रिक्तपाणिरमङ्गल्यद्रव्यभृच्चाशुभं व्रजेद् ॥१२९॥ Stanza 129 .- If the questioner comes with any auspicious things in his hand, then predict 7

98 Prasna Marga

good. If he comes with nothing or with any inauspicious things as broom, etc., then predict evil effects.

SOME PECULIAR LAKSHANAS

प्रश्नकाले शुभे प्रषटुः स्थितिस्पर्शेक्षणादिके। दैवज्ञचित्ते तुष्टे च स्यादिष्टार्थसमागमः ॥१३०॥ Stanza 130 .- If at the time of query, the astrologer is free from all anxieties, and if the questioner's posture, movements and looks are favourable, then predict good.

मनोगतफलप्राप्तिरशुभेष्वेष नो भवेंत्। मित्रेषु येषामाधिक्यं फलं तेषां विनिर्दिशेत् ॥१३१।। Stanza 131 .- If these are bad, then the achievement of his desired objects will not take place. If these are of mixed nature, then the effects will be mixed according to the strength of good and bad indications.

OMENS OR TATKALA LAKSHANAS

प्रश्ने यदुच्यते यच्च श्रयते यच्च दृश्यते। तत्सादश्येन सकलं प्रष्टुर्वाच्यं शुभाशुभम् ।१३२।।

Omens or Tatkala Lakshanas 99

Stanza 132 .- All the effects of a query can be fully understood by a careful study of what you see before you or what you hear or what others speak at the time of the query, in the shape of ominous sounds or expressive signs.

यस्यकस्यापि कार्यस्य पृच्छायां प्रस्थितावपि। तत्कार्यसाधनं वस्तु दृएं चेत्ततु सिध्यति ।।१३३।। Stanza 133 .- The sight of certain objects brings in comfort and welfare. Note these sugges- tive signs when you begin to make predictions. This will be useful also when you go or start for another place. नववस्तुद्यादानां दर्शनं करसङ्गहे। सद्धये तदसिध्यै स्याद्वियोगास्तु कयोरपि ॥१३४।। Stanza 134 .- While discussing marriage affairs or when starting for a marriage ceremony, the sight of 'fresh dress' and the like indicate a happy marriage. Then if you happen to see two persons bidding farewell to each other and parting away, then the marriage tie will be broken or dissolved.

रन्ध्रेटूगुलिप्रवेशे तु कन्यया दूषणं वदेद्। यस्या य: कश्िदागच्छेद्विवाहोस्ा दिशीर्यताम्॥१३५॥

100 Prasna Marga

Stanza 135 .- If you see any person thrusting his finger into any hole, then say that the bride in question is immoral. If however you notice any person coming towards you from any side, you may predict that a gentleman from that direction will marry her.

घुटिकापुस्तकादं यद्विद्याम्यासनसाधनम्। किङ्किणीकटकादीनि भूषणानि शिश्षोरपि ॥१३६।। मेखलाजिंनदण्डाथ गर्मिनी बालकसतथा। एतेषां दर्शनादीनि भवेयुः पुत्रसिद्धये ।१३७।। Stanzas 136 and 137 .- In a query regarding 'birth of children' a casual sight of the following at the time brings in luck and attainment of object: a book, pen and the like, a small jing- ling bell, bangle, a necklace and other ornaments of children, a small piece of deer-skin, a stick, a belt of darbha grass, a pregnant woman, smiling children : these indicate clearly that the questioner will get children.

दर्शनं ज्वलितस्याग्नेर्मलादित्यजनं तनोः। यानं कस्यापि तद्देशाद्रर्भच्छिद्रस्य सूचकम् ॥१३८।। Stanza 138 .- If you happen to see near, any- body cleaning his body or going away from your

Omens of Tatkala Lakshanas 101

midst or anything burning brilliantly, say that the pregnant woman in question will have abortion.

दक्षिणांघ्रिंस्थिरीकृत्य स्थितिरायुधचालनम्। मर्दनं दक्षहरस्तस्य ज्यलिताग्निप्रदर्शनम् ॥१३९।। पुरुषस्य प्रसिद्धस्य प्रसभस्य च दर्शनम्। एतत्पटकं विशेषेण युद्धप्रश्न जयावहम्॥१४०।। Stanzas 139 and 140 .- In a Yuddha Prasna, the following are considered as favourable signs: a person standing on his right leg or shaking his weapons pressing his right hand ; a burning fire or a distinguished, august or calm personage.

वामपादं स्थिरीकृत्य स्थितिर्बिक्लबता गिरः। सश्रता मलिनेक्षा च नियम्यायुधधारणम्॥१४१॥ पराजवकरा: पश्च युद्धप्रश्ने विशेषतः ।१४२।। Stanzas 141 and 142 .- A person standing firmly on his left leg, a person shedding tears or speaking in a faltering voice, a dirty person and one sheathing his sword : these sights indicate defeat in a fight.

यक्तिश्चित् कार्यमुद्दिश्य प्रम्थाने यदि तिपश्य। सुवंण वा फलं वा स्याद्द्रव्यलाभो न संशयः ॥१४३।

102 Prasna Marga

Stanza 143 .- In a query pertaining to an enterprise, the sight of a piece of gold or some fruits suggests financial gain.

आरुह्य वा समाश्रित्य जीववद्वस्तु पृच्छति । प्रश्ने चागच्छति प्राणी तं देशं प्रति कशन ।।१४४।।

जीवत्येव घुरव रोगी म्रियते वैपरीत्यतः ॥१४५।।

Stanzas 144 and 145 .- In a query bearing on disease, the sight of a living being or person on horseback or on an elephant portends immediate cure of the disease. But standing on a lifeless object will bring about the death of the questioner.

पितपुष्यं तिलं वह्विर्नूतनं वसनं तथा। दर्भदध्यादि निखिलं संभृतं पितृकर्मणे ॥१४६॥

मरणानन्तरापेक्षं द्रव्यं यत्सकलं तु तत्। एतेषां दर्शनं न्नामायुः प्रश्नेमृतिप्रदम् ।।१४७।।

Stanzas 146 and 147 .- Flowers for funeral rites, sesamum seeds, burning cinder, unwashed clothes, darbha grass (kusa grass), curd, all things

Omens or Tatkala Lakshanas 103

used in obsequies-burial or cremation-these when seen indicate the death of the sick man.

शयनं चोपवेशश्च प्रष्टा यात्रा विधातकृत्। पादव्यत्याससङ्कोची विळम्बनकरौ ध्रुवम् ॥१४८।।

पृष्टरोत्थानश्च यानं च यात्रालाभाय सत्वरम् ।।१४९।।

Stanzas 148 and 149 .- In a question pertain- ing to travel, if the messenger sits down or lies down after the question is put, then you can say that some obstructions will impede his trip. If he gets up on one leg and keeps standing on the other and contracts them, some delay will be caused in his trips. If he gets up or walks up as soon as the query is made, predict that the intended trip will take place soon.

पाणिग्रहणमन्योन्यं दयोः कस्यापि चागमः । सन्धये छेदभेदादि सर्व संधिविरोधकृत् ॥१५०॥

Stanza 150 .- If you chance to meet two persons with their hands clasped or if you find a stranger walking towards you, then a dispute will end in compromise. Separations, breaks, etc., lead to the obstruction of peace.

104 Prasna Marga

हाहाखेदरवं क्षुतं च पतनं चैत्यध्वजादेस्तथा वस्त्रछ्पदत्रविक्षतिमपि ध्वंसार्थनानागिरः।

कराणां मृगपक्षिणां प्रतिदिशं वाचश्च दीपक्षयः पातं पूर्णघटादिकस्य च बुधाः कष्ट निमित्तं विदु:

Stanza 151 .- The following are considered as evil omens indicating failure :- Intermittent cries of Oh! Oh !- sniffing sounds, the falling of the flag-post or the family tree of worship, clothes, umbrella, or shoes getting spoiled or words connoting ruin or loss heard from all directions, or bad birds or cruel animals making unpleasant cries, light being extinguished unexpectedly-any vessel full of water or so firmly fixed that it tumbles down.

गौळल्या रूतं च नाशाय वामे दक्षे तथा क्षुतम् ॥१५२।।

Stanza 152 .-- At the time of prasna, if you see on your left, cats, owls, a kind of snake, or Godha it is considered bad; if you hear the cry of a lizard on the left side, the effect is the same.

Omens or Tatkala Lakshanas 105

Sneezing of persons to the right side also is harmful.

प्रशस्ता: कीर्तने कोलगोधाहिशशजाहकाः । न दर्शने न विरुते वानरर्क्षावतोन्यथा।१५३।। मातङ्गश्ववृषादीनां पृच्छाकाले रुतं यदि। तेषां वा दर्शनं तर्हिं प्रष्ाभीष्टमवाप्नुयात्।।१५४।। Stanzas 153 and 154 .- If you hear anybody uttering the names of hogs, serpents, hare, Godha, etc., it is good. But to see these or hear their cries is bad. To see or to bear the cries of the monkey and the bear is good. But to hear their names uttered is bad. To see or to hear the cries of an elephant, a horse, or an ox is also good.

त्रीणावेणुमृदङ्गशंखपठहध्वानं च भेरीरवं गीतं मङ्गलमङ्गनां च गणिकां दध्यक्षातेक्ष्वादिकम् । दूर्वाचन्दनपूर्णकुम्भकुसुमं मालां फलं कन्यकां घण्टां दीपसरोरुहे च शुभदं विद्यान्िमितं बुधः॥१५५।। Stanza 155 .- A veena, flute, drum, conch, -the sounds of these instruments are aus- picious. General music, pleasant objects and beautiful women, dancing girls, pot of curd,

106 Prasna Marga

coloured rice, sugarcane, Durva grass, sandal paste, pot filled with water, flowers and garlands, fruits and virgins, bells, lights and lotus flowers- all these are auspicious both for hearing and seeing. छत्रं तोरणह्द्ययानशकट स्तोत्रं च वेदध्वनिं बद्धूं चैकपशुं वृषं च मुकुरं स्वर्ण सवत्सां च गाम्। भक्ष्यं चोद्धतमृत्तिकां बुधवरं यच्चान्यदिष्ट श्रतं दृष्ट श्रोत्रद्शोश्शुभं तदखिलं प्रश्ने निमित्तं विदुः ॥१५६।। Stanza 156 .- Umbrella, arches, agreeable palanquins or carriages, hymns of prayer, or utterances of the Vedas, a cow tied with a rope, a bull, a mounted mirror, gold, a cow and its calf, eatables, fresh mud, or a learned pandit, are good. In brief, all those things which are agreeable to our ears and which are pleasant to our eyes can be considered as good omens at a query. लोकाच्छास्त्रमुखात्तथा गुरुमुखादन्यन्निमित्तान्तरं विज्ञातव्यमतः शुभाशुभफलं प्राज्ञैः प्रयत्नादिह। यद्यत्पृच्छति पृच्छकोन्तिकगतं तन्नाशचिह्नं भवे- न्नाशः स्यादिह तस्य तस्य न चिरात्तद्रव्यत्यये व्यत्ययः ।।१५७॥

Omens or Tatkala Lakshanas 107

ज्ञात्वैतत्सकलं सम्यक्समयादि शुभाशुभम् । एतैरेवाखििलं वस्तुं शक्यं प्रषुः शुभाशुभम् ।।१५८।। Stanzas 157 and 158 .- Other signs and omens should be learnt from other treatises on the subject or under the guidance of a Guru or according to the code of conduct sketched by learned men. For general guidance, it may be taken as granted that whatever things or signs that help us to attain our objects, are good and all those things that are inauspicious indicate the contrary results. Knowing benefic or malefic nature of the omens, it is possible to make appropriate predictions. Thus concludes the 2nd chapter of Prasna Marga.

॥ इति प्रश्नमार्गे द्वितीयाध्यायः ॥

तृतियाध्यायः

THE ASTROLOGER'S DEPARTURE

प्रश्नकालोद्भवं बुध्वा सदसत्समयादिकम्। निर्गच्छेत्समये जीवकालहोरादिके शुमे ।।१।। Stanza 1 .- When the astrologer sets out to the house of a person whose future he has to read, he must recall all those ominous indications which he noted when the querent approached him. He must apply now the same rules and start at an auspicious time to the house of the querent. The Kalahora of benefics is particularly good.

शुभाशुभनिमित्तं यत्प्रश्नकालसमुद्भवम्। उक्तं निखिलमप्येतच्चिन्तनीयं हि निर्गमे ॥।२।। Stanza 2 .- All those good and bad omens suggested for the time of putting a query in the last chapter may be applied now when the astro- loger sets out to the house of the querist.

निर्गच्छतोम्बरं सङ्गमेति भूमौ ततेच्च वा। कप्राद्यं य त्करम्थं वा भवेदेवाशुभाय तत् ।।३।।

Omens on the way 109

आगच्छ तिष्ठ मा गच्छ प्रविश क नु गच्छसि। इत्यादिवाचः प्रस्थाने भवन्त्यशुभदा दृढम्।४।। पाषाणादिषु पादस्खलनं स्तम्भादिके तथा शिरसः । नेष्टं निर्गमनेन्यान्यपि चिन्त्यानि लोकसिद्धानि ।।५।। Stanzas 3. 4 and 5 .- The astrologer's dress gets entangled on anything; his walking stick or umbrella tumbles down, somebody calls him from behind and says "come here, stop, do not go, enter in, where do you go?", etc; his head dashes against a post or pillar; his legs strike against a stone or piece of wood. These are bad omens indicating inauspicious results. He should also refer to his experience for other omens.

OMENS ON THE WAY अन्यजन्मान्तरकतं शुभ वा यदि वाशुभम् । यत्तस्य शकुन: पाकं निवेदयति गच्छताम् ।६।। Stanza 6 .- These omens simply indicate what is going to happen as a result of your good or bad karma in your last birth. NOTES This sloka is from Brihat Samhita.

सदसच्छकुनोद्भूतौ कर्तमिदास्त्येव तत्फलानुभवे। मार्गादिमेदवशतस्तदपि च शास्ान्तरे कथितम्।।७।

110 Prasna Marga

पथ्यात्मानं नृपं सैन्ये पुरे चोद्दिश्य देवताम्। सार्थे प्रधानं साम्ये तु जातिविद्यावयोधिकम् ॥८।। Stanzas 7 and 8 .- Whom an ominous sign affects has to be understood by the then situation. If a person going alone notes a sakuna or omen, he is himself affected; in an army, the king is affected ; in the capital of a country, it is a warn- ing from the goddess of the place; a company of people, the effects will be felt by the important man in the group according to seniority in age, wisdom or birth.

शकुनफलानामपि भूतानागतवर्तमानत्वम् । तत्सम्भवदिग्वशतो ज्ञेयं शास्त्रान्तरोक्तमेतदपि ।।९।।

Stanza 9 .- The effects of any sakuna- whether it has been experienced in the past, or whether it is being felt at present, or whether it will be experienced in the future, have been ex- plained in some other works according to the direction of its occurrence.

आरभ्य स्वोदयादर्कः पूर्वाद्यष्टासु दिस्वपि। सश्नरत्यर्द्धसंयुक्ता: सपनाडी ददैवानिशम् ।१०।।

Omens on the way 111

मुक्तप्राप्तैष्यसूयासु फलं दिक्षु तथाविधम्। अङ्गारदीपधूमिन्यस्ताश्च शान्तास्ततोपराः ।११।।

Stanzas 10 and 11 .- Beginning from sunrise, the Sun travels through the eight directions commencing from the east, at the rate of seven and a half ghatis in each direction. The direc- tions under traverse, the preceding and the succeeding ones go under the name of deeptha, angara and dhumni respectively. The remaining five are santha.

NOTES

The day is to be reckoned from sunrise to sunrise. The Sun is supposed to symbolically go round the different directions in the order of east, south-east, south, south-west, west, north-west, north and north-east respectively, staying in each direction for 72 ghatis or three hours. From sun- rise to say about 9 a.m. the Sun will be in the east. During these three hours, the east goes under the name of deeptha or ablaze. The quarter left, viz., south-east is angara or burning and the quarter to succeed, i.e., south-east is dhumni or smoky. The rest, viz., south, south-west, west. north-west and north are santha or tranquil. Three hours after sunrise, the Sun stays in S.E. Then this quarter or direction becomes deeptha. The preceding one (east) and the succeeding one (south) become angara and dhumni respectively ; and the other directions-south-west to north-east reckoned in clockwise order become santha.

112 Prasna Marga

Six hours after sunrise the position is shifted to the south, which becomes deeptha, south-east and south-west going under the name of angara and dhumni respectively. In this way note the position of the Sun and determine the nature of the directions. Angara refers to the past, deeptha refers to the present- and dhuma refers to the future. The following diagram will also be useful in understanding the above two stanzas :-

North-east East South-east 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. 6 a.m. to 9. a.m. 9 a.m. to 12 noon

North 12 midnight to Sunrise 6 a.m. South

3 a.m. 12 noon to 3 p.m.

North-west 9 p.m. to West South-west 12 midnight 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Suppose at 10-20 p.m. the nature of the diks or directions is to be ascertained. The Sun's position will be at north-west-deeptha; west will be angara; the north will be dhuma and north-east, east, south-east, south, south-west and west will be santha. In actual practice, the actual time of sunrise should be taken and each direc- tion allotted three hours. Depending upon the direction of the past, present and future of the querist is to be noted.

तत्पमश्चदिशां तुल्यं फलं त्रैक्ाल्यमादिशेत् परिशेषदिशोर्वच्यं यथासमं शुभाशुभम्। इति ॥१२।।

Omens on the Way 113

Stanza 12 .- To the five directions (going under the name of santha) should be suitably assigned the sequence of the "time-effect". The remaining two directions will be similar to those of their adjacent ones. NOTES I have given a very liberal translation of this stanza. In the preceding stanza, reference is made to the dik or directions falling under the name of santha. What does this refer to? Is it present or past or future? This is answered in this sloka. The fifth dik from each is also N. E. E. S. E.

3 a.m. to 6 a.m. 6 a.m. to 9. a.m. 9 a.m. to 12 noon

Angora SUN Deeptha Dhumni

Past Present Future

1-30 a.m. to 3 a.m. 12 noon to

N 4 12 midnight to Sunrise 6 a.m. 1-30 p.m. S

1-30 a.m. 1-30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

9 p.m. to 12 midnight 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Omen

N. W. W. S. W.

114 Prasna Marga

the same in time-effect. It has already been suggested that the direction, the Sun is in, is deeptha (present) and the preceding and the succeeding ones are respectively angara (past) and dhumni (future). Suppose the Sun is in east direction (6 a.m. to 9 a.m.) and an omen is sighted in north-west, its effect will be felt only in the future, because it is the fifth from south-east which is dhumni (future). Regarding the effects of the south and north, the first half will correspond to the previous direction and the second half to the next quarter. Thus the first half of south indicates future and the second part, the present. The first half of north refers to future and the next half to past.

राजा कुमारो नेता च इतः श्रेष्ठी चरो द्विजः । गजाध्यक्षश्र पूर्वाद्याः क्षत्रियाद्याश्रतुर्दिशः ॥१३। Stanza 13 .- The eight quarters, beginning from east to west in the clockwise order, signify respectively a king, an heir apparent, a commander-in-chief, a messenger, a learned man, a spy, a priest, and a controller of elephants. Again, the east, south, west and north res- pectively signify a Kshatriya, a Vaisya, a Sudra and a Brahmin.

गच्छतस्तिष्ठतो वापि दिशि यस्यां प्रतिष्ठितः । विरौति शककनो वाच्यस्तदििक्स्थेन समागमः॥१४॥ Stanza 14 .- Omens seen in the various direc- tions by the astrologer standing or walking indi-

Omens on the Way 115

cate contact with the class of people mentioned in stanza 13.

प्राच्यां खलु शकुनखो यदि खलु भविता समागमो राज्ञा। राजकुमारेणाग्नौ याम्यादिष्वेवमेव नेतृमुखैः ।इति ॥१५॥

Stanza 15 .- Suppose an omen is notified in the east, then assume that you will meet with a royal personage; in south-east, a prince and so on.

पाषण्डश्रमवर्णानां सवर्णाः कार्यसिद्धये।

त एव विपरीताः स्युर्दूताः कार्यविपत्तये ॥१६।। Stanza 16 .- If the messenger be of the same caste, etc., the object of the query will be realised. If not, the effects will be adverse.

NOTES The above stanzas are quite clear and they do not require an explanation. The eight cardinal points begin- ning from the east are held to signify a king, an heir apparent, etc., and an omen seen in a particular direction signifies meeting with the class of people according to the above allocation.

116 Prasna Marga

कार्पासौषधकृष्णधान्यलवणं जालादि हिंसार्थकं भस्माङ्गारमयश्च तक्रमुरगं पूर्ति च विद्छर्दिते। भ्रान्तापनजळान्धमूकवधिरक्लीवांथ संन्यासिनो यद्यहृङ्गनसोरनिष्टमखिलं कष्ट निमित्तं विदुः ॥।१७।। Stanza 17 .- Cotton, medicines, black-gram, salt, net, trap, and other destructive appliances, ashes, burning cinder, iron, buttermilk, serpents, foul-smelling things as human refuse, or vomitted dirt, mad man, a sick man, an idiot, a blind man, a mute, a deaf man, a eunuch, an ascetic-in brief all those things which are repugnant to the eye or mind, are all evil omens. NOTES Meeting any of these on his way is considered bad.

पथश्छेदोऽहि मार्जारगोधानकुलवानरैः। सर्षपेन्घनपाषाणतृणानीतिश्र दोषकृत् ॥१८।। Stanza 18 .- If a serpent, a cat, a godha (a kind of alligator), a mongoose or a monkey crosses your path, something bad is sure to happen The sight of mustard seed, fuel, stone, grass, is also bad. आमं मांसमथासवं मधुघृते धौतांशुकालेपनं रत्नेभद्विजवाजिनश् नृपति संवर्द्धमानं नरम्।

Omens on the Way 117

देवं पाण्डरचामरं सुमधुरस्निग्वान्नपाने शवं विप्रौ च ज्वलदग्निमत्र शुभदं विद्यान्निमितं बुधः

Stanza 19 .- Raw flesh, liquor, honey, ghee, white clothes, white ointment, jewels, elephant, birds, horse, king, a prosperous family-man, deities in procession, white chowries, delicious food or drinks, dead body, Brahmins coming in twos, and burning fire, are good omens.

प्रदक्षिणं खगमृगा यान्तो नैवं श्वजम्बुकौ। अयुग्माश्च मृगाशशस्ताः शस्ता नित्यं च दर्शने॥२०॥ Stanza 20 .- Birds and animals going clock- wise, jackal and dog moving anti-clockwise, and good animals found in odd numbers, indicate good.

चाषभासभरद्वाजनकुलछाग वर्हिणः। मत्स्यौ घटीति पद्योक्तं निमित्त च शुभप्रदम् ।।२१।। Stanza 21 .- The sight of wild crow, Bhasa and Bhardwaja birds, mongoose, goats, peacock, is good besides what is expressed in the sloka, "matsyau ghati", etc.

118 Prasna Marga

NOTES The sloka referred to here is from Varahamihira's Brihat Jataka. Two fishes, a man bearing a pot, a man and woman bearing a mace and veena. a person carrying bows and arrows, crocodile, a person carrying a balance, an un- married girl sailing with corn in one hand and fire in the other, are indicative of auspiciousness.

शृगालनकुलव्याघ्रचकोरोरगपोत्रिणः । गच्छन्तो दक्षिणे वामे श्वकाकाजमृगद्विपाः ।।२२।।

दृष्टाः प्रशस्ता एते तु न शुभा: स्युर्विपर्ययात् ।।२३।।

Stanzas 22 and 23 .- Jackal, mongoose, tiger, chakora bird, serpent or a pig crossing you on the right side is indicative of good. If they cross your left, it foretells evil. A dog, a crow, a goat, an elephant or a stag, passing on your left, indi- cates good, if not it forebodes evil.

NOTES These birds and beasts if seen in the suggested direc- tions produce good. Otherwise evil results are said to flow.

शान्तादीपत्वमाशानां शुकुनानां च तद्वशात्। शुभाशुभत्वमस्त्येतदृपि शास्त्रान्तरोदितम् ॥२४।।

Omens on the Way 119

रविमुक्तादयस्तिस्त्रो दीप्ता नेष्टास्ततोपराः। शान्ता: शुभा: सदिक्तुल्यफलं हि शकुनं मतम् ॥ इति

Stanzas 24 and 25 .- The omens too become 'tranquil' and 'blazing' according to the directions in which they are situated. They yield their results too accordingly. The three quarters-left behind, occupied at present and to be occupied next-by the Sun, are called Deeptha or 'blazing'. These three quarters are unfavourable and the remaining ones termed 'Santha' or tranquil are favourable. The omens seen in these quarters also yield similar effects. NOTES Suppose the Sun is in the eastern quarter (6 a.m. to 9 a.m.). Then the north-east, east and south-east directions go under the name of deeptha. The other five directions are santha. An omen seen in a deeptha quarter indicates evil results and that sighted in a santha quarter denotes favourable happenings.

यामार्द्धमुदय।त्पूर्वमारभ्याष्टासु दिक्ष्वपि। परिश्रमति तिग्मांश्ुयािष्वष्टासु सर्वदा ।।२६।। रवौ ज्वाला ततो धूमच्छायामृद्वारिभूमयः । भसिताङ्गारकाश्चेति प्रदक्षिण्येन संस्थितम् ।।२७।।

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अङ्गारादित्रयं दीप्तं शान्तं मृत्स्नादिकत्रयम् । छाया पूर्व शुभं भस्म पश्राचैवं शुभं भवेद् ॥।२८।। Stanzas 26 to 28 .- Commencing from an hour and a half before sunrise the Sun travels through the 8 directions during the 8 yamas of the day. The names of the 8 quarters are :- jwala (flame), dhuma (smoke), chaya (shadow), mrittika (mud), jala (water), bhumi (earth), bhasma (ashes) and angara (charcoal). The three quarters from angara are termed deeptha or blazing and the three from mrittika, santha or tranquil. The first half of chaya and the last half of bhasma are good. The other halves are bad. NOTES

Here the allocation of the Sun's symbolic motion clockwise in the eight cardinal points is of a different type. The following table is self-explanatory. The table holds good if sunrise is at 6 a.m.

Time Direction Nature of motion 4-30 a.m. to 7-30 a.m. East Jwala or flame 7-30 a.m. to 10-30 a.m. South-east Dhuma or smoke 10-30 a.m. to 1-30 p.m. South Chaya or shadow 1-30 p.m. 1o 4-30 p.m. South-west Mrittika or mud 4-30 p.m. to 7-30 p.m. West Jala or water 7-30 p.m. to 10-30 p.m. North-west Bhumi or carth 10-30 p.m. to 1-30 a.m. North Bhasma or ashes 1-30 a.m. to 4-30 a.m. North-west Angara (charcoal)

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The three directions beginning from angara, i.e. north-west, east and south-east fall under deeptha and produce the same results as suggested in stanza 25. The three directions commencing from mrittika, viz., south- west, west and north-west are santha and denote favour- able results. The first half of chaya (south) and the last half of bhasma (north) are good. In this connection 'notes' given under stanzas 10 and 11 may be re-read with advantage.

एकादशादिमेनिष्टे द्वितीये शकुने पुनः। प्राणायामाः षोडश स्युस्ततीये तु न च त्रजेत्॥ इति

Stanza 29 .- A person meeting with a bad omen on the way must go back home, wash his feet and do pranayama (breath-regulation) 11 times and start again. If he meets again with a bad omen, he should return home and do pranayama 16 times. After that if he again sees a bad omen for the third time, he should not proceed at all.

INDICATIVE SIGNS WHILE ENTERING THE HOUSE प्रश्ने तत्कालजं यद्यन्निर्गमे यद्यदध्वनि। प्रोक्तं प्रष्टृगृहप्राशी तत्तत्प्रायेण चिन्त्यताम् ।३०।। Stanza 30 .- When the astrologer enters the house, he should take stock of all the effects of

122 Prasna Marga

the indicative signs and omens occurring at the time of starting, going along the way and entering the house, and apply their effects.

आर्तालयं विशति दैवविदीत एतद्द्वारा निरेति यदि कोपि सरुङ्म्रियेत। दवूरा तयैव विशतीह यदीतरश्चेञ्जीवेत्स नूनमिति मे गुरुणोपदिष्टम् ।३१।। Stanza 31 .- As the astrologer enters the place, if some other person issues out through the same gate, then the patient will die. On the contrary, if another person enters the place (with the astrologer) the sick man will soon improve. So am I taught by my Guru.

गृहान्तिकं प्रष्टुरिहाभियाते ततो वधूः प्रश्नविचारिणीत्थम् । विनिर्गता मूलफलोपपन्ना रजस्वलोन्मूलविनाशिनी स्यात् ।३२।। Stanza 32 .- If a woman in menses, carrying fruits and roots issues out of the house which the astrologer enters, it may safely be predicted that the querist's life and career are doomed. NOTES According to some this verse is an intorpolation.

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वेदाध्यनघोषश्च तथा पुण्याहनिस्खनः । गन्धश्र सुरभिर्वायुः सुखस्पर्शः प्रदक्षिणः ।३३।।

वृपस्य चानुलौमस्य स्वनस्तद्वद्गवामपि। प्रवेशसमये प्रष्टुरारोग्यादिफलाप्ये ॥३४।।

Stanzas 33 and 34 .- While entering, if one hears Vedas being chanted, mantras recited, a bull facing the house, bellows or cows mooing sweetly, or finds a gentle and fragrant breeze blowing, then predict good health and prosperity.

शयनासनयानानामुत्तानानां च दर्शनम्। न्युब्जानामितरेषां च पात्रादीनामशोभनम् ।३५॥ Stanza 35 .- Cots, chairs, vehicles, etc., if found upturned or vessels down-faced, consider they are evil indicators.

आतुरस्य गृहे यस्य भिद्यन्ते वा पतन्ति वा। अतिमात्रममत्राणि दुर्लभं तस्य जीवितम् ॥३६।। Stanza 36 .- If you hear anything falling or breaking to pieces, then also the sick man is not likely to survive.

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निवाते र्दापनाशः स्यान्मन्दिरे यस्य रोगिणः ।

स न जीवति चुल्यादो चाग्निनाशः सतीन्धने ।।३७।।

Stanza 37 .- If the light is put out though there is no violent wind and the fire is soon extinguished though there is sufficient fuel, consider that the sick man will die.

॥ इति प्रश्नमार्गे तृतीयोऽध्यायः ॥

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चतुर्थोऽध्याय:

CONDUCTING THE PRASNA

प्रश्नानुष्ठानमेतेन लक्षणान्यपि कानिचिद्। शास्त्रान्तरेषु दृष्टानि कथ्यन्ते खल्वनन्तरम् ।१।।

Stanza 1 .- In this chapter is explained how prasna kriya is to be conducted and how the future can be divined on the basis of certain indications given in sastras. NOTES In Kerala, it seems people generally ask astrologers to do ashtamangala prasna and have their varying fortunes unfolded to them. It is said that most family people took part in it and in fact, the daily routine of some families was regulated by these Prasnikas. Remedial measures were taken to alleviate the sufferings caused by their previeus evil actions. Hence the author has taken great pains to detail how this Prasna must be conducted. The first three chapters cover the first stage in dealing with Prasna. In this chapter, the author explains further how the future can be divined by Time with the help of God, omens, signs and significations.

PREPARATION स्नात्वा धृतसितवासा भृतभस्मा प्राङ्मुखः सुखासीनः आलोच्याथ निमिनं प्रश्नविधिं प्रारमेत् गुरुभक्त्या ।।२।।

126 Prasna Marga

Stanza 2 .- After taking a clean bath, dress- ing himself in tidy neat robes and wearing sacred ashes, the astrologer seated at ease must open the Kriya with great devotion to God and Guru facing east, and observing carefully all around, noting omens if any.

अनासने तु समये मध्याह्वोदययो रवेः । प्रश्नकर्म हि कर्तव्यं सुप्रसन्ने दिवाकरे ॥।३।। Stanza 3 .- The time for this must be neither too early in the morning nor too advanced in the midday. It must be done when the Sun is bright and pleasing.

प्रश्नानुष्ठानसम्भारसम्भृतौ प्रक्तु भस्मनः । आनीतिर्मृतिदार्तस्य दीपस्य तु शुभप्रदा ।४।।

Stanza 4 .- Of the accessories used for Prasna or query, if sacred ashes are first brought in- advertently, then it forebodes evil. If a lighted lamp is taken to the Prasna-room, it denotes general welfare and God's blessing.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE LAMP सर्वप्रश्रेषु सर्वेषु कर्मस्वपि विशेषतः । प्रसादेनैव दीपक्ष भविष्यच्छुममादिशेत्।।५।।

Significance of the Lamp 127

Stanza 5 .- In all prasnas, why in all karmas, the lamp plays a prominent part, a messenger of the future. If the flame is pleasant and bright, it forebodes good

वामवर्तो मलिनकिरणः संस्फुलिङ्गोल्पमूर्तिः क्षिप्रं नाशं व्रजति विमलस्नेहवर्त्यन्वितोपि।

दीपः पापं कथयति फलं शब्दवान् वेपयुश्च व्याकीर्णारचिर्विमलमसकृद्यश् नाशं प्रयाति ॥६।। Stanza 6 .- If the flame of the lamp (used in the Prasna) moves in an anti-clockwise direction, if it is not bright, if it frequently emits sparks, if it is too small in shape, if it is suddenly put out though there is good oil and sufficient wick, if it is extinguished in spite of repeated efforts to light it, if it is found broken in two halves, if it makes 'cracking sounds' and if it shakes to and fro though there is no adverse wind, then prognosti- cate 'evil'.

दीपः संहतमूर्तिरायततनु निर्वेपथुर्दीपिमान् निश्शब्दो रुचिर: प्रदक्षिणगतिवैडूर्यहेमद्युतिः। लक्ष्मीं क्षिप्रमभिव्यनक्ति रुचिरां यश्चोच्छिखो दृश्यते शेषं लक्षणमग्निलक्षणसमं योज्यं यथा युक्तितः।७

128 Prasna Marga

Stanza 7 .- If the flame is fairly dense and long in appearance, if it moves only in a clock- wise way, if it is steady and bright, if it produces no sound, if it is beautiful to look at, if it is golden or jewel-like in hue and if it burns straight without being bent, then predict prosperity and success.

स्नेहो यस्येह देहो भवति तदुदरे वर्तिनी वर्तिर,त्मा ज्वाला चायुस्तदीये विमलमलिनते सौख्यदुःखे क्रमेण । पात्रं गेहं समीरो मृदुपरुषगुणो बन्धुशत्रुस्वरूपः प्रषुः प्रायेण वृत्तं पिशुनयति महादेवतात्मा स दीपः

Stanza 8 .- Tbe oil in the lamp represents the physical body; the wick, soul; the flame, longevity; its brightness and dimness, happiness and misery ; the can, its size and shape, the house; and the wind, relatives and friends. The lamp symbolising divinity indicates the future.

NOTES Light is the basis of all divinity in the Universe. It is said to foretell clearly the present and the future events of man. Oil in the lamp is equivalent to the physical body of a person. Its quality and quantity determine the physi- cal and mental features of a man. It is said that the quantity of the oil, its purity, its clearness, its density and

Significance of the Lamp 129

everything that is found init, its temperature, colour, etc., all these can be skilfully applied to the physical and mental qualities of the questioner. If the quantity is small, divine that the questioner also is weak in blood ; if the temperature of the oil is high, say that he is suffering from fever or worried in mind. If many things are found floating in the oil, then say that he is suffering from worms. The wick that burns can be considered as the soul of the person. If the wick is dirty, then say he is not sharp in intellect. If two wicks are found to be intertwined'say his Prana, Apana and other vayus are not working in order and hence ill-health and mental troubles. The flame of the lamp is 'life'. Its size determines longevity. If it is bright, he is happy, and if it is dim, he is afflicted. The can that contains the oil is the house of the questioner. If it is fair in size or neat in shape, say he is in a spacious and neat house. If you happen to shift the lighted lamp from its original position, then predict that the questioner will change his house. If a gentle breeze blows against the light, say that he has bosom friends to help him. If an adverse wind blows, say he has innumerable enemies. In this way this idea can be expanded intelligently by astrologers. In this connection, reference may be made to Dasa- dhyayi an annotation of Varaha Mihira's Brihat Jataka, Sloka 18 Chapter V. Here ' sneha' is considered as happiness or misery of a person. The wick is considered the physical body, the flame is compared to the soul. Accordingly some change the reading and say that the wick represents lohgevity and the flame, soul. 9

130 Prasna Marga

The significance of a lamp in Prasna, so elaborately dealt with by the author, may have to be ignored in modern times, in view of the fact that oil lamps are today conspicuous by their absence electric lights having taken their place.

दूवोभिप्रेतदात्री शिखिनि शिखिमयं दक्षिणे प्राणहानि- नैरुत्यां विस्मृतिः स्याद्वरुणदिशि शिखा शान्तिदा वायुकोणे। शून्या मृत्युश्यी स्याद्धनददिशि शिखा शं विघत्ते शिवाख्ये वह्वेरूर्घ्वा शिखैषा वितरति वपुषोभीष्टवस्तूनि सद्यः ।।९।।

Stanza 9 .- If the flame burns towards the east, then it foretells prosperity; if the flame is found towards the south-east, predict 'fear from fire'; if it is towards the south, say 'death'; if it is south-west 'diseases like epilepsy or apoplexy or sudden fits'; if it is towards west, say 'improve- ment' or peace; if it is towards the north-west, predict 'poverty and decline'; if it is towards the north, predict 'he has just overcome a great danger or death'; if it is north-east, conclude 'general good health'. If the flame blazes vertically, state that success and gains will attend the questioner's efforts.

Significance of the Lamp 131

NOTES In all these, the astrologer should carefully divine the situation, environment and context and apply the lakshanas above mentioned.

प्रश्नार्थमाप/दितपत्रपुर्वान् छित्वा च मित्वा गुळिकस्थराौ। प्रषटष्टमर्क्षे यदि निक्षिपेच्चेत्सद्ो मृतिः स्ान तु जीवदृष्टे ।।१०।।

Stanza 10. -If any of the articles brought while putting a query are placed on that side or Dik occupied by Gulika or that side indicated in the Rasis as the 8th Rasi from Arudha or from the Janma Rasi of the questioner, then the questioner will meet with an early death, if it is not aspected by Jupiter.

NOTES Usually when putting questions, the custom is to bring such articles as flowers, betel leaves, sandalwood sticks, etc. The placement of these articles in a particular direction or quarter with reference to Gulika or Arudha or Janma Rasi of the querist seems to have its own significance in determining the outcome of a query. Jupiter's aspect will avert the crisis. For purposes of this stanza, the different directions are denoted thus: Aries and Taurus-east; Gemini-south-east; Cancer and Leo-south; Virgo-

132 Prasna Marga

south-west ; Libra and Scorpio-west : Sagittarius-north- west ; Capricorn and Aquarius-north; and Pisces-north- east. Suppose, at the time of the query. Gulika is in Gemini (south-east) and the articles are placed on the south-east side. It means that questioner may die unless Jupiter aspects the sign.

DRAWING THE CIRCLE OR CHART

शुद्धतण्डलसम्पूर्णप्रस्थदीपाद्यलंकृते। समे सुमृष्टसंसिक्ते चक्रं लिखतु भूत्ले ।।११।। Stanza 11-Draw a diagram on an even and clean spot, made pure and tidy, and covered by a layer of raw rice and adorned with a lamp and flowers and other ornaments. NOTES Chakra here refers to the zodiacal diagram. It should be drawn on an even and clean spot covered with rice and adorned with flowers, etc.

Meena Mesha Vrishabha Mithuna Pisces Aries Taurus Gemini

Kumbha Kataka Aquarius PADMA Cancer

LOTUS Makara Simba Capricorn Leo

Dhanus Vrischika Thula Kanya Sagittarius Scorpio Libra Virgo

Significance of the Lamp 133

After drawing the diagram, Puja has to be offered to the Padmna (the central portion). The gold piece has to be put in one of these parts, to be detailed later. Stanza 12 gives measurements of the Chakra.

हस्तप्रमाणे चतुरश्रखण्डे पडड्गुलांशैर्विभजेद्दळानि। चतुर्दळं पद्ममिहास्तु मध्ये चतुर्भिरन्यान्यजपूर्वभानि 118RII

Stanza 12 .- Draw the Chakra or figure on the ground aforesaid measuring 24 angulas square. Divide it into 16 equal parts of 6 angulas each. Then you will get at the centre a 'Lotus' with four petals. The remaining 12 parts will consti- tute the 12 signs of the zodiac beginning with Aries.

केचिनिन्दन्ति दैवज्ञा भस्मना चक्रलेखनम्। तथापि तत्र भम्मैव गृहणन्ति बहवोधुना ।१३।। Stanza 13 .- Some astrologers condemn the use of sacred ashes (bhasma) for drawing this Chakra. Still many make use of it nowadays.

प्रदक्षिणतया कार्य राशिचक्रविलेखनम्। अनुलोमविलोमेन लेखने विघ्नसम्भवः ॥१४।।

134 Prama Marga

Stanza 14 .- This Chakra should be drawn clockwise. Many obstacles are indicated, if it is drawa first in the anti-clockwise manner and then in the opposite direction ..

NATURE OF THE CHART

स्थूलरेखा सुखकरी सक्ष्मा दुःखप्रदायिनी। रेखाच्छेदो भवेत् प्रष्ुः सुखकार्यविघातक:।१५।। Stanza 15 .- Bold lines indicate prosperity. Indistinct lines indicate misery and affliction. Broken lines show that obstacles are ahead both for happiness and work

HOW THE PRIEST DRAWS THE CHAKRA

लिखिता सौम्यरेखा प्राम्यदि नूनं धनागम: । वारुणी यदि रोगासिरैन्द्रो चेत्सन्ततिर्भवेत् ॥१६॥। याम्यरेखा यदि भवेन्मरणायैव पृच्छताम् ।।१७।। Stanzas 16 and 17 .- If it so happens that the northern line is drawn first, then the questioner may be told that he will have monetary gains. If the western line is drawn, then diseases will increase. If the eastern line is drawn, 'birth of children' can be told. If the southern line is drawn first, death can be foretold.

Significance of the Lamp 135

NOTES Generally the Chakra is drawn by the temple-priest and not the astrologer. Therefore, the mode of drawing of the diagram is to be interpreted by the astrologer.

चक्रस्य यत्र निम्नत्वमौभत्यं वापि दृश्यते। प्रषटुर्निवासभूमिश्र तत्र तत्र नतोभता।१८।। Stanza 18 .- If any portion of the Chakra is found to be a little raised, then the astrologer should predict that in the house and compound of the questioner there is a spot, which is elevated ; if there is any depression anywhere in the Chakra, there is a deep pit in his compound or house. NOTES The astrologer must intepret the Rasi Chakra as the house and compound of the questioner.

चक्रे यत्र तृणानि तत्र तरवस्तत्रांबुसिक्ते जलं ग्रावा यत्र शिलेह यत्र सिकतास्तत्र स्थलं चोभतम्। केरा वा खलु नालिकेरसद्दशाकारा: परे भूरुहो वल्मीकोत्र पिपीलिकाहृतमृदो यत्र क्षितौ पृच्छताम्

Stanza 19 .- If anywhere in the Chakra, pieces of grass are found scattered, then deduce there

136 Prasna Marga

are trees on that side in the compound of the querist. If the Chakra is found wet anywhere, say there are ponds and wells. If you discover a piece of stone, then say there are rocky spots. If you note small particles of sand, then conclude that certain portions of the compound are elevated or cocoanut or some other trees of the kind are there. If you find wet mud anywhere sprinkled by ants in the Chakra, state that there will be ant-hill in the compound of the questioner. NOTES In these 9 slokas, the author deals with 'Lekhaka Sparsa Lakshanam ', i.e., effects of the touch and posture of the man who draws the Chakra.

संस्पर्शनादैरपि चक्रकर्तुः प्रष्टः क्षितेर्लक्ष्म विचारणीयम्। विलिख्य चक्रं प्रददाति किश्चिद्द्व्यं परस्मै यदि भूमिरेषा ।।२०।। परस्वतामेष्यति यत्परस्मादादानमन्यक्षितिलाभशंसि। यद्युद्वरेत्खाभिमुखं प्रसार्य हसतं नगा: स्पुर्यदि सांगुलीयः ।।२१ । करः स वल्लीपरिवेष्टिताङ्का ग्रीवा विभूषालभनेपि तद्वद्। शाखाविहीना स्तरवोड्गुलीनामाकुश्चने स्ाणव एव मुष्टौ ।२२॥

Behaviour of the Agent 137

Stanzas 20 to 22 .- After finishing the Chakra, if he gives away anything to anyone, then conclude that the property of the questioner will be soon sold away. If he takes anything from anybody, then he will gain fresh landed property. If he raises his hand up, then think that there are trees in the lands of the questioner. If he wears rings in his raised fingers or touches his necklace, then say there are creepers in the trees; if he raises his palms with the fingers folded, then say that the trees are without branches; if he clenches his fist, then say there are more stumps of trees. If he feels the hair in his face, then say there are trees with thorns. If he feels his nostrils or earholes, then say there are rat-holes and snake- holes in his gardens.

BEHAVIOUR OF THE AGENT

मुखरोमार्द्वछिन्नं स्पृशेद्यदि वदेत्सकण्टकांन् वृक्षान्। नासाश्रवसो रन्ध्रस्पर्श तु विलं भुजङ्गमाखूनाम् ।।२३।। केशान् विश्लथितांश्र रोन सुखजं यद्वा स्पृशेन्निदिशे- न्मुञ्शीरकुशादिकानपि नसो वल्मीकमामर्शने। मेदरकोडदशां कुचास्यविलयोश्चामर्शनेन्तर्जलं प्रष्टुर्वास्त्वनिशोददम्बु कथयेत् स्विन्राङ्गसंस्पर्शने ।।२४।।

138 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 23 and 24 .- If he touches his di- shevelled locks or hair on the head or moustache, then state there are kusa and other kinds of grass. If he touches his nose, you will find ant-holes. If he however feels his stomach, privities, eyes, mouth and breast, then say there is plenty of water in his gardens. If he happens to touch any of the perspiring parts of his body, you will find his lands to be very fertile with water flowing through always. कक्षापानस्पर्शने वारि दुष्ट बाहूनत्यां भूरुहोतीव दीर्घाः। हस्तानत्यां तत्र वृक्षोतिखर्वो लोहानि स्यु: स्पर्शने दन्खानाम्।।२५।। Stanza 25 .- If he places his hands in his armpit or anus, then the water in his gardens will be very bad. If he raises his arms too high, there are very tall trees; if he lowers his hands very low, the trees are stunted ones. If he feels his teeth or nails, then metal ores (mineral wealth) can be discovered in his gardens.

जान्वादिकेङ्गेस्थियुते स्पृशेचेत् पाषाणजालैनिचिता- स्थिमिश्र। नाभ्यादिनिम्नावयवाभिमर्शे श्वभ्रान्विता पृच्छकभु: सकुल्या ॥२६।।

Behaviour of the Agent 139

स्वपृष्ठभागस्थनतप्रदेशस्पर्शेन कुल्यां प्रवदेनदीं वा। रहस्यलक्ष्मेत्यथ तत्प्रसङ्गाद्दूताश्रयं किश्चन लक्ष्म वक्ष्ये ।।२७।। Stanzas 26 and 27 .- If he touches his knee- cap and other bony spots in his body, then many stones and bones can be found in his compound. If he touches his navel or any other depressed limb, then many pits and ponds can be seen in his gardens. There will be rivers or small streamlets in his gardens if he touches the ridge of his back. We shall now deal with other secrets pertaining to the messenger.

दृश्यन्ते दिशि यत्र यत्र मनुजा दूतस्य विष्वकिस्थिता दिक्ष्वासवासु गृहाणि सन्ति सदशां जात्या च तैः संख्यया। आयानेन धनुष्मतोत्र हरिति स्थानं च शास्तुर्वदे- देव्यास्तिशि योषितः कुपृथुकायाने पिशाचस्थितिः

Stanza 28 .- The astrologer must carefully mark the other persons, if any, accompanying the messenger, at the time of invitation. He sbould ascertain the nature of the people and state that

140 Prasna Marga

the questioner has houses all around his home inhabited by people similar in occupation and caste to the persons already noted. If at the time of first invitation a bowman turns up, say that there is a temple in that direction of the questioner's house where God Sasta is worshipped. If a woman turns up, predict that there is a temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi or Durga in that direction of house. If dirty boys turn up, then predict that evil spirits live near.

विप्रायाने ब्रह्मरक्षोनिवासश्रोरोत्थापद्दुर्मतेरारमेन। दूतस्यैतत्सम्भवेद्यद्दिशायां प्रष्ुर्द्धाम्निस्तत्फलं तददिशि स्यात् ॥। इति ॥२९। Stanza 29 .- If a Brahmin turns up, say that a Brahma Rakshasa resides in that direction of his house. If a wicked man happens to come, then say that the questioner is molested by thieves and robbers. NOTES All these lakshanas can be applied to Prasna time and first invitation time.

चक्रं विलिख्य चरणौ प्रक्षाव्य तनुशोधनम्। आत्मपूजां गणेशार्चमपि कृत्वा महेश्वरम् ।३०।

Invocation to the Lord 141

चक्रमध्यस्थिते पद्मे पीठपूजापुरस्सरम्।

Stanzas 30 and 31 .- After the Chakra is drawn, the astrologer should wash his feet, sanctify his body with Vedic mantras, worship the Atman and Lord Ganesa. Thereafter he should worship Lord Maheswara with Panchakshari Mantra in the lotus at the centre of the Chakra after the preliminary worship, and keep ready the offerings to be made to the subsidiary Deities.

INVOCATION TO THE LORD

कैलासाध्रीशकोणे सुरविटपितटे स्फाटिके मण्डपे स- न्मातङ्गारातिपीठोपरि परिलसितं सेव्यमानं सुरौघैः । जानुस्थं वामबाहुं मृगमपि परशु ज्ञानमुद्रां वहन्तं नागोद्यघोगवेष्टं ददतमृषिगणे ज्ञानमीशानमीडे ।।३२।।

Stanza 32 .- The Lord's meditation is as follows :- "I invoke the Lord who is gracefully seated on the grand throne placed on a crystal platform at the foot of a celestial tree in a quiet place on the Great Mount Kailasa, who is attended upon by the entire host of Gods, whose left hand is placed on his knee,

142 Prasna Marga

who holds a deer, axe and the symbol of know- ledge, whose body is gist up with the yogic bands in the form of snakes and who teaches the Supreme Knowledge to the group of Sages."

WOSHIPPING THE PLANETS

मेषादा राशय: स्वसस्थाने सवाश्रितमे ग्रहाः । परिवारतया पूज्या गुळिकश् खनाममिः ॥३३।। ब्रह्मार्पणान्ते वाग्देवीं गुरूंश्राप्यष्टमझ्गले। पुष्पैराराध्य वन्देत प्रदीपे च तथा श्रियम् ।३४।। Stanzas 33 and 34 .- Aries and other sigos, the planets posited in different signs and Gulika should be worshipped with thier names as sobordinate Deities. At the end of the worship he should adore Saraswati and Guru in the auspicious objects kept by the side of the Chakra and worship Lakshmi in the lamp. NOTES Stanza 32 is to be recited as Dhyana Mantra for worshipping Lord Maheswara.

PLACING THE GOLD PIECE

अथ प्रक्षाळ्य तोयेन सवर्ण चन्दनभूषितम्। पत्रे विन्यस्य कुसुमैरक्षतैरपि योजयेद्।३५।।

Placing the Gold Piece 143

Stanza 35 .- After this puja, take a piece of of gold, wash and place it in a basin or in a plantain leaf. Apply sandal paste and cover it with some flowers, coloured rice, etc

वामहस्ते निधायाथ पिधायान्येन पाणिना। पश्चाक्षरीं साष्टशतं मनूनन्यांश्र भक्तित: ॥३६।। Stanza 36 .- Keep it in the left hand and covering it with the right hand, repeat with devo- tion the Panchakshari Mantra 108 times.

जप्त्वाथैकत्र विन्यस्य प्रारमेताष्टमङ़लम्। संक्षेपेणाथ तत्कर्म कथ्यते गुरुणोदितम् ।३७।। Stanza 37 .- Then the Ashtamangala Kriya is solemnly begun. The details are given below as advised to me by my Guru.

कृत्वा दक्षिणतो राशिचकं प्राङ्मुख आसने। आसीन: फलकेमिन्ने वराटीस्साष्टकं तम्।३८।। Stanza 38 .- Sit on the left side of the Chakra facing east. Sit on a neat place. Place before you a plank of wood to the north of the Chakra. Take 108 cowries and place them on the plank.

144 Prasna Marga

विधाय मन्त्रवत्प्रोक्ष्य गन्धपुष्पाक्षतैश्र ताः। अलंकृत्यार्चयेत्तासु शिवमावाह्य चक्रवत् ।।३९।। Stanza 39 .- Sprinkle them with holy waters and cover them with sandal paste, flowers, etc Then worship Siva in them as before.

प्रागाद्याशासु सूरयारार्यज्ञाच्छार्किविधूरगान्। अपि संपूज्य ताः स्पृष्ट्वा स्पृष्टवा साष्टशतं जपेत् ।।४०।। पञ्चाक्षरीं मनूनन्यानापे गुर्वाननाच्छू तान्। ततः संप्रार्थयेदेवं गुरूनपि निजान् ग्रहान् ।४१।। Stanzas 40 and 41 .- You should then do the navagraha puja invoking the Sun in the east, Mars in the south-east, Jupiter in the south, Mercury in the south-west, Venus in the west, Saturn in the north-west, Moon in the north and Rahu in the north-east, and repeat the Mantra 108 times. NOTES Repeat Panchakshari and other mantras derived from Guru and invoke the Guru and the nine planets.

SANKALPA

एतनक्षत्रसंजातस्यैतन्नाम्नोस्य पृच्छतः । भूते च वर्तमाने च समये च भविष्यति ।।४२।।

Ashtamangalam 145

शुभाशुभानि चेदानीं चिन्तितस्य विशेषतः । सम्भवासम्भवाद्यन्यान्यर्थपुत्रगृहादिषु ।।४३।। शुभाशुभानि यान्येतान्यखिलान्यपि तत्वतः । युष्मत्प्रसादतः स्पर्ष्ट मम चित्ते स्फुरन्त्विति ॥४४।। Stanza 42, 43 and 44 .- May it occur to me through your grace to find out the real truth, good and bad, regarding the person born in such and such a nakshatra and bearing such and such a name, and happenings about him in the past, present and the future in respect of money, children and house affairs. ASHTAMANGALAM ततः कन्याकुमारो वा स्नात्वा वस्त्राद्यलंकृतः। राशिग्रहस्थितिज्ञानशून्यो वा कथनापरः॥४५।। उपेत्याराधयेत् पुष्पै्दीपविघ्नखगेश्वरान् । ततोसय दक्षिणे हस्ते स्व्ण साक्षतपुष्पकम् ॥४६।। दद्यादेतद्वहन् सोपि कृत्वा चक्रप्रदक्षिणम्। पश्रात्समीपतस्तिष्ठेच्चक्रस्य प्राङ्मुखः सुधीः।।४७।। ततः प्रष्टा निजामीष्ट ध्यायंस्तिष्ठतु साञ्जलिः। दैवज्ञोथ स्मरन् प्रषुरमीष्टं ता वराटिकाः।४८।। 10

146 Prasna Marga संस्पृशन् संस्पृशन् मन्त्रं मूर्तित्वेपूर्वक जपेद्। विवारं तञ्जपस्यान्ते दूतं त्रयान्न्यसेरिति ।।४९।।

तदैव विन्यसेद्दूतः स्वर्ण निजकरस्थितम्। चक्रस्थभेषु चैकत्र दैवज्ञस्ता वराटिकाः ॥५०।।

Stanzas 45 to 50 .- Then call the girl or boy not conversant with astrology who has just bathed and is well-dressed. He or she should worship the lamp, Ganesa and the planets with flowers. The astrologer should then place the gold piece along with flowers, etc., in the right hand. He or she should then go round the Chakra and then stand near it facing the east. in the meanwhile the questioner should be meditating on God. Then the astrologer reflecting on the problem of the querist should touch the cowries repeating the mantras thrice and at the end ask the boy or girl to place the gold piece in any one of the signs.

DETERMINING THE ARUDHA RASI

विभजेत्तिरुदक्पूर्व निमित्तानि च चिन्तयेत्। प्राक्पृच्छासमये यद्यच्छुभाशयुभम्रुदीरितम्।।५१।।

Determining the Arudha Rasi 147

तत्तत्सकलमत्रापि चिन्त्यं स्पर्शशरादिकम्। अथ दूतः पदच्छायामानं कुर्यात्समक्षितौ ।।५२।। यर्मन् राशौ म्ितं स्वर्ण स स्यादारूढसंज्ञकः । ज्ञात्वा दैवविदारूढं स्वर्णस्योत्तानतादि च ।५३।। Stanzas 51 to 53 .- Then the astrologer should divide the cowries which he has before him into three groups, placing one on the left hand side, another in front of him and the last one on his right hand side. The omens also should be taken into consideration. Note this time also. The nature of the breath too is to be noted. Then one may be asked to go out and measure the Sun's shadow. That Rasi where the gold piece is deposited by the boy or girl is known as the Arudha Rasi. The astrologer should carefully observe the lay of the gold piece amidst the flowers in the Chakra and point out some effects from its position.

पृच्छकाय फलं किश्चित्प्रोच्य पू्जा समाप्य च। वराटीरष्टशस्त्कत्वा स्थानत्रितयतः पृथक ॥।५४।। शिष्टसंख्यामपि ज्ञात्वा रक्षणीया वराटिकाः ।।५५।। Stanzas 54 and 55 .- After finishing the worship the astrologer should give the predictions.

148 Prasna Marga

He should solemnly take the cowries kept in three places one after another. Count each separately and expunge all multiples of 8 and keep the remainder. This forms the third digit, second digit and the unit (respectively) of a number he is making. NOTES The remainder in the left hand is ' hundred', in front ten and on the right hand side one unit. Thus a number containing three digits is obtained. This number is technically termed the Ashtamangala Number. Some more details on the results that can be gleaned from the lay of the gold coin are dealt with in stanzas 32 to 36 of Chapter VIII.

THINGS TO BE NOTED

आरूढं स्वर्णसंस्थानं छायामप्यष्टमङ्कलम्। विलिखेन्मासयाताह:प्रष्टृतारापुरस्सरम् ॥५६।। यदत्र कथितं कर्म चक्रलेखनपूर्वकम्। संक्षेपेण तदेवाथ पुनरष्युच्यते कमात्।५७। Stanzas 56 and 57 .- Note carefully the Arudha, the lay of the gold piece, the shadow of the Sun measured in feet, ashtamangala number, deepa lakshana and other lakshanas perceived at the time. The nature and number of the betel

Conclusion 149

leaves, year, month, date, week-day, the name of the questioner, his house name, his nakshatra and

noted. sankalpa (object of the Prasna) must also be

CONCLUSION विलिख्य चक्रं प्रविकीर्य चाक्षतं संपूज्य भक्त्याथ कृतेष्टमङ्गले। आराध्य राशिं कनकेन संस्पृशेत् प्रष्टा वराटिर्विभजेन्व दैववित्।५८।। रक्तानि कुसुमान्यत्र गृह्यन्ते कैथ्नापरैः । शुक्लानि दृश्यते प्रायेणाद्य तुम्बाभीधार्तवम् ।।५९।। Sianzas 58 and 59 .-- Draw a chakra and .scatter coloured rice over it. Perform the puja with devotion. Worship the cowries for ashta- mangala. See that a piece of gold is asked to be deposited in one of the squares of the chakra and find out the ashtamangala number. For puja purposes, white flowers (especially tumbe) alone should be used. NOTES In these stanzas, the author recapitulates what he has already treated of in this chapter.

। इति प्रश्नमार्गे चतुर्थोऽध्यायः ॥

पश्चमोऽध्याय:

TIME OF QUERY

प्रश्नकालविलग्नस्य स्फुटावगमने सति। फलादेशस्य साफल्यं तथा शास्रान्तरोदितम् ।१।। Stanza 1 .- Without knowing correctly the exact rising sign at the time of a question, no prediction is possible. This point has been repeatedly explained in treatises on this subject.

तन्त्रे सुपरिज्ञाते लग्न छायांबुयन्त्रसंविदिते। होरार्थे च सुरूढे नादेषुभोरती बन्ध्या ।।इति॥।२।। Stanza 2 .- The astrologer's statement can never be fruitless if he has studied well the astronomical and astrological treatises and if he has correctly calculated the Lagna through the shadow, water appliances, etc.

CALCULATION OF LAGNA

छायां तत्कालजां न्यस्य त्यक्त्वा वाक्यं तदूर्ध्वगम्। तच्छेपमङ्गुलीकृत्य पष्ठया हत्वा विभाजयेत् ।।३।।

Calculation of Lagna 151

तत्कालांघ्रिप्रभापा श्रवाक्ययुग्मान्तरांगुलैः। लब्धा विनाडिकास्त्यक्तवाक्यनाड्या: परित्यजेत् ॥४॥

लभ्यन्तेह्स्तदा याता नाडिकाश्र विनाडिकाः। ततस्तत्कालसूर्यस्य गम्यलिसांशकान् हरेत्।।५।। अर्कयुक्तर्क्षहारेण लम्यतेर्कोदयात् परम्। नाड्यादिकं हि तद्राशेरेतद्दिनगताच्यजेद् ।।६।।

ऊर्ध्वराशिप्रमाणानि त्याज्यान्यपि ततस्त्यजेद्। शेषं तद्राशिहारघ्नं लग्नं स्याद्गतराशियुक्॥।७।। Stanzas 3 to 7 .- The length of the shadow at the time of query should be noted down and from that the vakya for the next stage should be deducted. The balance should be converted into inches (angulas) and multiplied by 60. The product should be divided by the difference in inches between that vakya and the following vakya taken in inches. The quotient will be the ghatikas and vighatikas past in the day. Then from the position of the Sun at that instant, find out the balance in degrees of the sign; multiply this by the multiplier (Rasi gunaka) of the sign occupied by the Sun, when the balance of the sign remain- ing after sunrise will be got. Deduct this from

152 Prasna Marga

the number of ghatikas-vigatikas past in the day and also the durations of the following signs till a balance is left over. Multiply the balance by 30 degrees and divide by the duration of the sign which is not covered. This will give the degrees past in the particular sign, to which prefix the number denoting the past signs. This will be the Lagna NOTES The author shows how the Ascendant may be deter- mined by noting the length of the shadow at the time of the question. This was the standard method until almost a few decades back for determining the Ascendant. Briefly, a circle is described on a level floor. The gnomon (a rod of 12 digits meant specifically for this purpose) is placed vertical at the centre of the circle. The length of the shadow of the gnomon at the time of question is noted and from this the Lagna for the instant in question calculated. Vakyas are astronomical formulas given in terse Sanskrit sutras. Thier use and application require diligent study under a competent teacher. For example, there are 248 vakyas for the Moon giving its anomalies which enable one to find the geocentric longitude of the Moon at sunrise on any day. These are called lunar vakyas. These vakyas or formulae are very much in uce even today in certain parts of Kerala for the determination of the position of the Moon, nakshatra and tithi on any particular day, The difference (as alluded to

Correction by Kunda 153

in stanzas 3 to 7) between 2 consecutive vakyas gives the orbital velocity of that particular planet at sunset. The difference of two alternate vakyas divided by two gives the orbital velocity at sunrise. The method prescribed by the author is both imprac- tical as well as impossible in present times. There are standard ephemerides available with which the Ascendant for the time of query can be determined with greater ease and better accuracy.

CORRECTION BY KUNDA

कुन्दनिघ्ने पृथग्लग्ने प्रष्टृतारा न चेद्भवेत्। क्षिप्त्वा काश्चित्कलास्त्यक्त्वा वानेयं प्रष्टवजन्मभम् ।।७।।

Stanza 8 .- Having arrived at correct Lagna Sphuta, multiply this by 81 (Kunda). Expunge all multiples of 12. From the remainder, find out the Nakshatra. If this Nakshatra happens to be the constellation of the questioner, or its trines, then be sure that this Lagna is accurate. If it is not Janma or Anujanma Nakshatra, add or subtract some minutes and shift the Lagna in such a manner as to have the asterism (Janma or Anujanma) of the questioner.

ऊर्ध्वासने क्षिपेन्याज्या अधश्चेत्पृच्छकोडडनि। स्वर्ण दशदशैकैकनक्षत्रस्येह लिप्िकाः ।।९।।

154 Prasna Marga

Stanza 9 .- Add to the Lagna or subtract from it 10 minutes of arc for each asterism. If the asterism of the questioner is Aswini and Kundagata Sphuta as got from verse 8 is Krittika, subtract 20 minutes from the Lagna Sphuta. If the Kundagata Sphuta is Satabhisha, add. 40 minutes. Adjust this change in the dinagata also similarly. NOTES Suppose the ascendant is 11° 34' and the birth asterism is Mrigasira. Applying stanzas 8 and 9 we get Lagnasphuta (11° 34' = 694') x Kunda (81)=56214. Dividing this by 12, i.e., by expunging multiples of 12, the remainder is 6, which counted from Aswini gives Aridra. As the Kundagata star is Aridra and birth star given is Mrigasira, subtract 10 minutes from the Lagnasphuta. That is, the Lagna will be 11° 24'. Adjust the given time of birth accordingly.

THE MOON'S LONGITUDE चन्द्रे परहितानीते वीरलिप्ासमन्विते। "कालभीमतिशोभाङ्गाये"ति कन्याझषार्कतः ॥१०॥ प्रारभ्यर्ण धनं वीणाचापार्काद्दृदग्विधुर्भवेत्। कोळम्बे मुरहासंख्ये चन्द्रे वीरयुतिर्मता॥११॥ सुंभाव्देष्वथ यातेपु संयोज्यैकैकलिप्तिका ॥१२।। Stanzas 10, 1l and 12 .- To the Moon got from the Parahita system of calculation, 24

The Moon's Longitude 155

minutes should be added. To this the following figures-1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 5, 4, 3 and 1-should be applied for every 10 days, negative from 10th day of Virgo to 10th day of Sagittarius and from 10th day of Pisces to the 10th day of Gemini; so also positive from 10th day of Sagittarius to 10th day of Pisces and from 10th day of Gemini to 10th day of Virgo. This will be the Drik Ganita Moon. In the Kollam Era 825, it was the view that 24 minutes should be added to the Moon. Following has been stated in the work called Kanthabharana regarding bringing out the correct Drik Moon.

कोळम्बोसुकलान्तरैरयनयुक्तकालसूर्योद्भवैः सौम्यघ्नप्रियभाजितै रहितयुग्भास्द्भुजाकोटितः । संयुक्त: शिवकेन वाक्यमिदया निध्नो धनेशेर्हतो लिसायां खलु योजितः परहितग्लावः सदक्चन्द्रमाः ॥ इति॥१३।

Stanza 13 .- Find out the asus with the help of the function got ty adding the precession relative to the Kollam year to the Sun's position for the instant. Multiply this by 17 and divide the product by 12. This will be negative or posi- tive according to the Bhuja or Koti position of

156 Prasna Marga

the Sayana Sun. Then 145 divided by 509 converted into minutes added to the Parahita Moon will make it equal to the Drik Chandra.

NOTES

In stanzas 10 to 13, the author gives the methods for calculating Chandra Sphuta on the basis of Parahita, a system of calculation that was in vogue in Kerala. Though it is not necessary for the reader to bother himself with this method, I have given some clarifications based on the commentary of Sri Punasseri Nambi Neelakantha Sarma. The word asu has not been specific. Perhaps it is charasu. While finding out the Lagna, the word ' nadika' includes ' vinadika' also. To find out the time from the sunrise to the required instant, a method is indicated which makes use of the knowledge of the length of the shadow. From chaya to angula it is the rule of three; measure is by difference in inches. 60 vinadikas is the effect. The adjoining vakya is subtracted from the observed shadow and this gives the starting point. As for the vakya, it begins with simha jagate dinape and is given in Jyotishastra Subodhini. When the Sun is at the end of a sign, the process becomes intricatc and for places where it is difficult to calculate, these have already been laid down. Therefore, these vakyas have to be framed according to the times and places. Even the method of proportion is only approxi- mate for the shadow decreases rapidly. When greater accuracy is required recourse has to be had to " computa- tion of shadows". At other than junction points, the time

The Moon's Longitude 157

arrived at from these can also be used. In any case, either according to the method indicated or by " shadow computation ", the time past in the day has to be arrived at. For determining the portion yet to elapse in the sign occupied by the rising Sun, recourse has to be had only to the rule of three.

After subtracting the balance (of duration) of the sign at sunrise and the following signs (their duration) from the time of question, the portion elapsed in the rising sign is got. From the rule of three, the Lagnasphuta is got. Rasi durations and divisors vary with time and place, a fact which should always be kept in view.

The word ' Vira' represents 24. Kala secmathi sobhan- gaya by figure notation represents 1, 3, 4, etc., to apply to months from 10th day of Virgo and Pisces 10th day for every 10 days. For months from Virgo 10 to Sagittarius 10 and from Pisces 10 to Gemini 10 these figures should be deducted from the Parahita Moon. For the rest of the months, they should be added. According to Parahita Ganita while working out the duration of the day only the charaphala from the Sun's Bhuja is taken into account and not pranakalantara. But in Drik system, Pranakalantara also is taken into account. Therefore this new correction is intended to regularise this. In this context, it may be said that this work was written at a time when the precession of equinoxes was about 20°. That is why the 10th day of Virgo and Pisces were taken. The work ' Arka' in notation refers to 10 and that was why the 10th day was taken. At present the precession is about 22° and as such the 8th day should be taken.

158 Prasna Marga

As explained above, the application of the constants, viz., 1, 3, 4, 5, etc. (vide stanzas 10 to 13) to Parahita Moon to convert it inco Drigganita Moon is related to the position of the Sun. Thus when the Sun occupies the following positions, the correction to be applied will be as follows :-

Virgo 10° to Sagittarius 10°

Virgo 10 to 20 13 21 to 30 Libra 1 to 10 4 11 to 20 5 Negative 21 to 30 6 Scorpio 1 to 10 5 11 to 20 4 ., 21 to 30 3

Sagittarius 1 to 10 1 II to 20 1 21 to 30 3 Capricorn 1 to 10 4 11 to 20 5 Positive Aquarius 21 to 30 6 1 to 10 5 11 to 20 4 3 Pisces 21 to:30 1 to110

11 1o 20 3 4 Aries 21 to 30 0 to 10 5 10 to 20 6

Taurus 21 to 30 5 Negative 0 to 10 4 10 to 20 3 21 to 30 Gemini ... 1 0 to 10 1 ...

Position of Gulika 159

Gemini 11 to 20 ... 3

Cancer 21 to 30 .... 4 1 to 10 5 11 to 20 6 21 to 30 5 Positive Leo 1 to 10 4 11 to 20 ... 3

Virgo 21 to 30 ... 1 0 to 10 3

Suppose the Moon's position on a particular day during this year is 24° 30' as per Parahita and the Sun is in 25° Leo which means the 25th day of the solar month Leo. Adding 24 minutes to 24° 30' we get 24° 54'. The Sun is in 25° of Leo. The solar date is 25th of Leo. From the table given above, when the Sun is in 20° 30' Leo, the value to be added is 1. Therefore 24° 54' +1' gives the Drigganita Moon as 24° 55'. The word stungo represents 74 and by about 74 years the precession amounts to 1°. Even this is approximate. This difference will be clear from the disparity in the mean longitude of the Moon in the Drik and Parahita systems which can be detected as real or otherwise only by astro- nomers and astrologers. Since accurate planetary positions based on correct observations (Drik) are now available, it is not necessary for a student of astrology to bother himself with the methods here. These methods are now obsolete.

POSITION OF GULIKA मान्दिकालायनाढ्यार्कचरज्यां विभजेत्त्रिभिः । लब्धा विनाडिकास्तामिर्हत्वा मान्दिघटी: पृथक ॥।१४।।

160 Prasna Marga

हरेनीलैविंघटिका लब्घा स्वण यथाक्रमम् । मान्दिनाड्यां सायनार्के मेषजूकादिसंस्थिते ॥१५।।

मान्दिनाड्यस्तदा स्पष्टास्ताभिस्तु गुन्कस्फुटम् । अनेतव्यं यथा लग्नं नाड्या दिवसयानया ॥१६।।

Stanzas 14, 15 and 16. -These three stanzas give the methoi of calculating the longitude of Gulika.

NOTES

The above three stanzas give a cumbersome method of finding out the position of Gulika on the basis of the "Charajya" of the Sun. Readers need not bother them- selves with this cumbersome method. There appears to be some confusion as to whether Gulika and Mandi are the same or they are different "planets". I shall briefly deal with the method of finding the position of Mandi.

MANDI

From Sunday onwards during daytime the position of Mandi will correspond to the rising degree at the end of 26, 22, 18, 14, 10, 6 and 2 ghatikas after sunrise ; provided the sunrise is at 6 a.m. If the length of the day is more or less than 30, these figures have to be appropriately changed. Thus for example if the length of the day is 32 ghatis on a Sunday, the sunrise being at 5-40 a.m. then Mandi's position will correspond to the rising degree at the end of 27.73 ghatis after sunrise.

Position of Gulika 161

During night times, the position of Mandi will corres- pond to the rising degree at the end of 10, 6, 2, 26, 22, 18 and 14 ghatis respectively from sunset from Sunday onwards. These figures hold good provided the duration of night is 30 ghatis. Appropriate alterations should be made if the nocturnal duration is more or less than 30 ghatis. If for instance on a Saturday, the duration of night is 34 ghatis then the position of Mandi corresponds to the rising degree at 15.86 ghatis after sunset.

GULIKA In daytimes the lords of the first 7 parts are the seven planets reckoned from the lord of the week-day chosen in the order, the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn. The 8th or last portion has no lord. Therefore Gulika's position corresponds to the ascendant rising at the end of Saturn's part. In the night the lords of the first seven portions or Muhurthas are the seven planets counted from the lord of the 5th week-day from the day chosen. Here again Saturn's Muhurtha is Gulika. Both Mandi and Gulika are said to be Saturn's sons. Let us find out the position of Mandi and Gulika on a Friday : during daytime, when the duration of the day is 30 ghatis and the Sun rises at 6 a.m. Mandi : On Friday, Mandi's position corresponds to the rising degree at 6 ghatis after sunrise. Gulika : As the duration of the day is 30 ghatis, each part is equal to 3§ ghatis. The ruler of the first part is 11

162 Prasna Marga

Venus (lord of the week-day) and that of the second part (upto 7} ghatis) is Saturn. Therefore Gulika's longitude corresponds to the rising degree at 71 ghatis after sunrise.

But so far as our author is concerned, he seems to have accepted both Gulika and Mandi as the same 'planets' and consequently Gulika's position so far as this book is concerned should be obtained according to the method given for Mandi.

एवं लग्नं विधुं मान्दिमानीय विलिखेत्पृथक। तेषां त्रयाणां संयोगस्त्रिस्फुटं विलिखेच तत्।।१७।। Stanza 17 .- Keep the Sphutas or longitudes of the three, viz., the ascendant, the Moon and Gulika separately. Then add up the three. This is called Thrisphuta.

लग्नेन्दुमान्दिसंयोगखिस्फुटं तच भानुयुक। चतुस्फुटं राुयुक्तमेतत्पश्चस्फुटं भवेत् ॥१८।।

Stanza 18 .- Add the Sun's Sphuta to Thri- sphuta, you get Chathusphuta. By adding the Rahusphuta to Chathusphuta, you get Pancha- sphuta.

NOTES

The stanzas are simple and need no elucidiation. Take an example in which the longitudes or Sphutas of the Sun,

Prana and Deha 163

the Moon, Lagna, Gulika and Rahu are : the Sun 301° 12'; the Moon 18° 29'; Lagna 43° 9'; Gulika 64° 26'; and Rahu 6° 9'.

Lagna + Moon + Gulika Thrisphuta 43° 9' 18° 29' 64° 26' 126° 4' + + = Thrisphuta + Sun = Chatusphuta 126° 4' + 301° 12' = 67° 16' Chatusphuta + Rahu = Panchasphuta 67° 16' + 6° 9' = 73° 25'

In all these cases expunge multiples of 360 degrees.

PRANA AND DEHA

लग्नेन्दूमानदानाभ्यां हत्वा मान्दि क्षिपेद्द्वयोः । प्राणदेहौ क्रमात्स्यातां पुनर्मान्दिस्सुताडितः ॥।१९।। Stanza 19 .- Multiply Lagnasphuta by five. Add Gulikasphuta to it, we get Pranasphuta. Multiply Chandrasphuta by 8. Add Gulika to it, we get Dehasphuta Multiply Gulikasphuta by 7. Add the Sun's Sphuta to it, we get Mrityu- sphuta.

NOTES

Lagnasphuta x 5 + Gulika = Pranasphuta 43° 9' × 5 + 64° 26' = 280° 11' The Moon X 8 + `Gulika = Dehasphuta 18° 29' x 8 + 64° 26' = 212° 18' Gulika X 7 + The Sun Mrityusphuta 64° 26' x 7 + 301° 12' 32° 14'

164 Prasna Marga

भानुयुक्तो भवेन्मृत्युर्िलिखेत्त्रीनिमानाि। प्रश्नकालगता नाडिरनिरयघ्ना विभाजयेत्। दिवसस्य प्रमाणेन लब्धं राश्यादिकं फलम् ॥२०।। तत्कालार्के क्षिपेदर्कः स्थिरराशिगतो यदि। भचतुष्कं त्यजेच्ास्माद्द्वन्द्वगो यदि योजयेद् ॥२१।। त्यागयोगौ चरे न स्तः प्राणाप्त्यै विलिखेच्च तद् ।।२२।। Stanzas 20 to 22 .- Multiply Prasna ghatis by 120 and divide the product by the duration of the day. Add to the quotient the Sun's longitude. Call this X.

If the Sun is in a fixed sign subtract 4 signs from X. If the Sun is in a common sign, add 4 signs to X.

If the Sun is in a movable sign, no addition or deduction is needed. This is Pranasphuta.

NOTES In stanzas 20, 21 and 22, another method for calculat- ing Pranasphuta as given in other works is explained. The time of question in ghatis is to be multiplied by 120 and divided by the duration of the day (in ghatis) of Prasna. To this is added the Sphuta or longitude of the Sun. From the total, four signs (120°) are subtracted if the Sua is in a fixed sign ; four signs are added if the Sun

Prana and Deha 165

is in a common sign. No addition or subtraction is needed if the Sun is in a movable sign. The result is Pranasphuta.

Determination of Pronasphuta : Step (a) Prasna ghatis x 120= product (b) Product

duration of day -quotient

(c) quotient - Sun's longitude - X. (d) If Sun is in fixed signs, X 4 signs = Pranasphuta If Sun is in common signs. X + 4 signs = Pranasphuta If Sun is in movable signs, X = Pranasphuta.

Illustration :

Suppose, Sun = 24° Gemini = 84° Prasna time= 25-42 ghatis after sunrise Duration of day=31 ghatis. For determining Pranasphuta : (a) 25-42 × 120-25.7 × 120= 3084 (b) 3084 - 99.48 31 -- 99s 14° 24'

Expunging multiples of 12. we get the quotient as 3s 14° 24' = 104° 24' (c) X - 104° 24' 84° _ 188° 24' X = 6s 8° 24'. Since the Sun is in a common sign.

166 Prasna Marga

Pranasphuta =. X + 4 signs, i.e., 6s 8° 24' +4s =10s 8° 24' Pranasphuta = Aquarius 8° 24'. In calculating the Pranasphuta etc.,, due to difference of opinion amongst the ancient scholars different methods are given by different authors. Therefore, we can calculate Pranasphutas as per the method given by the author himself in stanza 19 and the method given in stanzas 20 to 22 may be used for research purposes.

याता नाडीस्तिलघ्ना विभजतु दिनमानेन राश्यादि लब्धं

वीणादिद्वन्द्वमध्येष्वपि धनमुदितं मृत्युलब्ध्यै विजह्यात् स्थानेम्यश्रोदितेभ्यस्तदिदमपि भवेत् काल एतौ लिखेच्च ।।२३। Stanza 23 .- Mrityu and Kalasphutas are obtained thus: Multiply Prasna ghatis by 35 and divide the product by the duration of the day. You get Y. Depending upon the week-day of the Prasna being Sunday, Monday, etc., Mrityusphuta is obtained by adding 1 sign, 10 signs, 2 signs and 15 degrees, 5 signs and 5 degrees, 4 signs, 7 signs and 8 signs and 15 degrees respectively to Y. By subtracting these figures from Y, Kalasphuta is obtained.

Prana and Deha 167

NOTES

The rationale of the mathematics employed is not very clear. But it is given for what it is worth. Any research- minded student can study the implications of Mrityusphuta or Kalasphuta in birth horoscopes also and come to his own conclusions.

Determination of Mrit yusphuta and Kalasphuta : Step .-- (a) Prasna ghatis x 35 = product (b) Product duration of day - Y

(c) For Mrijusphuta: If day of prasna is Sunday. Mrityasphuta = Y + 1 sign If day of prasna is Monday, Mrityusphuta = Y + 10 signs If day of prasna is Tuesday, Mrityusphuta =Y +2 signs 15° If day of prasna is Wednesday Mrityusphuta =Y +5 signs 5€ If day of prasna is Thursday. Mrityusputa = Y +4 signs If day of prasna is Friday. Mrityusphuta = Y + 7 signs If day of prasna is Saturday, Mrityusphuta = Y + 8 signs 15° (d) For Kalasphuta, If Sunday, Kalasphuta=Y - 1 sign If Monday, Kalasphuta=Y - 10 signs If Tuesday. Kalasphuta=Y -2 signs 15° If Wednesday, Kalasphuta=Y -5 signs 5°

168 Prasna Marga

If Thursday, Kalasphuta=Y -4 signs If Friday, Kalasphuta= Y - 7 signs If Saturday, Kalasphuta=Y -8 signs

Illustration : Taking the previous illustration, prasna ghatis =25-42

Duration of day =31 ghatis (a) 25-42 gh. · 35=25.7 35=899.5 (b) 899.5 - 29.01 31

Expunging multiples of 12, Y=5s 0° 18' Suppose the week day is a Thursday, then

(c) Mrityusphuta=54 0° 18'- 4>=9s 0° 18' i.e., Mrityusphuta-Capricorn 0° 18'

(d) Kalasphuta=5s 0° 18' 4s - Is 0° 18' i.c., Kalasphuta=Taurus 0° 18'. Therefore Mrityu and Kalasphutas are Capricorn 0° 18' and Taurus 0° 18' respectively.

सार्द्वेन नाडीद्वितयेन गच्छत्यारभ्य सुर्योदयतो दिनेशः । चापद्विलोमादनुलोपयामी भानोरमुध्यास्तगतः शशाङ्क:

राहुर्मृगमृगारातिक र्किमेपाळिजूकमे। कर्किकुम्भैणमेषाक्षजूकेषु प्रतिलोमतः॥२५।।

Invocation to the Lord 169

चरत्यकोंदयात्सार्द्धनाडीद्वि तयतोन्वहम्।

लिग्वेदेतानपीनेन्दुराहुचक्रमिदं स्मृतम् ॥२६।।

Stanzas 24 to 26 .- It is assumed that the Sun passes through the 12 Rasis from sunrise staying 2 ghatikas and 30 vighatikas in each in a retrograde motion beginning from Sagittarius, and passing through Scorpio, Libra, etc., in that order. The Moon is always assumed to be in the 7th house from the Sun. Rahu passes through Capricorn, Leo, Cancer, Aries, Scorpio, Libra, again Cancer, Aquarius, Capricorn, Libra, Taurus and Aries staying 22 ghatikas in each from sunrise. This is to be known as Sun-Moon-Rahu Chakra.

NOTES

Gemini Pisces Ar'es Taurus Moon at sunrise

Aquarius Cancer Fassage of Sun starting from Sagittarius Capricorn Leo

Sagittarius Sun at sunrise Scorpio Libra Virgo

170 Prasna Marga

Pisces Aries 4,12 Taurus 11 Gemini

Aquarius 8 Cancer 3, 7

Passage of Rahu starting from 1 Rahu Capricorn 1, 9 Leo 2

Sagittarius Scorpio 5 Libra 6, 10 Virgo

Pisces Aries Taurus Gemini Moon

Aquarius Cancer Sun-Moon-Rahu Chakram at Sunrise Capricorn Rahu Leo

Sagittarius Sun Scorpio Libra Virgo

The use of this chakra is detailed in Chapter VIII.

THE DEATH CIRCLE

प्रतिगृहचारो ज्ञेयो नवतिप्राणैस्तु वामनो गुळिक:।।२७।।

The Death Circle 171

सोर्कयुतो मृत्युकरो भयदः सेन्दुश्च मृत्युचक्रमिदम्

Stanzas 27 to 28 .- It is assumed that the Sun, the Moon and Gulika transit through various Rasis from their Navamsa Rasi staying 15 vighatikas in each. The Sun and the Moon travel in the usual order, while Gulika moves in retrograde motion. In this Mrityu Chakra, Gulika conjoining the Sun or the Moon causes sure death or great fear respectively.

NOTES

These two stanzas enable us to cast the Mrityu Chakra or chart of death and place the Sun, the Moon and Gulika in this chart. This involves the determination of the "death sign" (Mrityurasi) and the longitude of the Navamsa Rasi of the planet concerned. The position of the planet in the chart of death is obtained by adding the Navamsa-rasi longitude to the longitude of the death Rasi. (a) Convert the number of Ghatis (of birth or question) from sunrise into vighatis and divide this by 15. The quotient represents the number of degrees (from the first point of Aries) of the death Rasi. The remainder may be converted into minutes, etc. (b) Multiply the longitude of the planet (devoid of the sign) by 9 and divide the product by 30. The quotient plus 1 represents the Navamsa which the planet occupies

172 Prasna Marga

and the remainder, the longitude of the planet within this Navamsa-rasi. (c) Add the longitude of the death sign to the Navamsa-rasi longitude of the Sun and the Moon and deduct the longitude of the death-sign from the Navamsa- rasi longitude of Gulika to obtain their respective positions in the Mrityu Chakra. In the chart of death if Mrityu Gulika and the Mrityu Sun are in the same Rasi, death of the questioner is likely. If Mrityu Gulika conjoins Mrityu Chandra, the querist will be in great fear and danger. If Mrityu Gulika stands alone in a Rasi, general improvement in all matters can be predicted.

Determination of Mrityu Rasi and Mrityu Chakra (a) Prasna ghatis from sunrise converted into vighatis = Mrityu Rasi 15

(b) Longitude of Sun (or Moon or Gulika) in sign of occupation x 9 = Quotient 30 Quotient +1 . Navamsa occupied by Sun (or Moon or Gulika) Remainder=longitude of Sun (or Moon or Gulika) in above Navamsa.

(c) Mrityu Rasi+longitude of Sun (or Moon) in Navamsa = position of Sun (or Moon) in Mrityu Chakra. Longitude of Gulika in Navamsa -Mrityu Rasi - position of Gulika in Mrityu Chakra.

The Death Circle 173

Illustration :

Suppose Prasna or birth-time = 33-53 ghatis Sun = Cancer 24° 25' Moon = Taurus 25° J 1' Gulika = Gemini 12° 44'

(a) Gh. 33-53 Vigh. 2033 =135° 32' 15 .. Mrityu Rasi (death sign) is Leo 15° 32' 24° 25' > 9 (b) The Sun : (Cancer) 219° 45' 9° 45' =7 -- 30 30 30 Quotient +1 (i.e., 7+1=8) represents the Navamsa-rasi of the Sun-the 8th from Cancer, riz., Aquarius and the Navamsa-rasi longitude is 9° 45'.

(3) The Moon : (Taurus) 25° 11': 9 226° 39'

30 30 16° 39' 7- 30 The quotient 7 plus 1, viz., 8, represents the Navamsa rasi and the 8th Navamsa in Taurus is Leo and the longitude of . the Navamsa rasi is Leo 16° 39'. 12° 40' < 9 114° 36' (4) Gulika (Gemini) 24° 36' =3. 30 30 30 The Navamsa is the 4th (3+1) in Gemini, vi :. , Capricorn and the longitude of Navamsa rasi is 24° 36'. Therefore : (1) Mrityu Rasi is Leo 15° 32' (2) Navamsa-rasi of the Sun -- Aquarius 9° 45' (3) Navamsa-rasi of the Moon-Leo 16° 39' (4) Navamsa-rasi of Gulika-Capricorn 24° 36'.

174 Prasna Marga

Add Mrityu Rasi to the Navamsa-Rasis of the Sun and the Moon and we get respectively the Mrityu sphutas of the Sun and the Moon. Subtract Mrityu Rasi from the Navamsa-rasi of Gulika and the Mrityu Rasi of Gulika is obtained.

(c) Mrityu Rasi 4s 15° 32' Navamsa-rasi of Sun 10 9 85

Mrityu Rasi of Sun = 2s 25° 17' = Gemini 25° 17' Likewise the Mrityu Rasis of the Moon and Gulika are : The Moon : Capricorn 2° 11' Gulika : Virgo 9° 4'

Sun 25° 17'

Mrityu Chakra

Moon 2° 11'

Gulika 9° 4'

In the Mrityu Chakra, Gulika is not in conjunction with either the Moon or the Sun, and it stands alone. Therefore general improvement can be expected.

अर्केन्द्वारूढोदयभांशेशा: स्पष्टगणितशास्त्रेण। दक्तुल्येनानेया ग्रहाश्र सर्वे तथैवान्ये ।।२९।।

Planetary Longirudes 175

Stanza 29 .- The positions of the Sun, the Moon, Arudha Lagna, etc., should be correctly calculated through Drigganita.

PLANETARY LONGITUDES योगे ग्रहाणां ग्रहणेर्कसोमयोमौद्ये तथा वक्रगतौ च पश्चसु । दष्टानुरूपं करणं यदन्वहं तेन ग्रहेन्द्रान् गणयेत्त्रिवारम् ।३०॥

यदा यश्चैव सिद्धान्तो गणिते दक्समो भवेत्। तदा तेनैव संसाध्यं जातकं गणयेद्बुधः ॥ इति ॥३१॥ Stanzas 30 and 31 .- Planetary movements and conjunctions, the solar and lunar eclipses, the setting and rising of planets, retrogression, etc., should be ascertained according to Drigganita or observational methods and worked out thrice to ensure accuracy. Thus even Siddhanta calcula- tions will be as accurate as Drik calculations.

NOTES In these three stanzas emphasis is laid on the need for accuracy in the calculation of the planetary movements and the other attendant phenomena. Today accurate ephemerides giving the correct positions of planets are available and therefore there is no need for

176 Prasna Marga

students af astrology to bother themselves with the ancient astronomical methods. The author seems to favour Drik in prefereace to Parahita.

ARUDHA POSITION

लग्नस्फुटस्य भं त्यक्त्वा कलाभागांश्र योजयेत्। आरूढमे स्फुटावाप्त्या अमुष्य विलिखेच्च तत् ।।३२।। Stanza 32 .- The longitude of the ascendant (devoid of the sign) added to the Rasi or sign of the Arudha gives the Arudha Sphuta or the longitude of Arudha.

NOTES Suppose the Lagna is Aquarius 12° 25' and the Arudha Rasi is Virgo. Then adding the degrees in the Lagna (devoid of the sign), viz .. 12° 25' to the Arudha Rasi, viz., Virgo we get Arudha Sphuta or the exact longitude of Arudha as Virgo 12° 25'.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे पश्चमाध्यायः ॥

पष्ठाध्याय:

THE FIVE SUTRAS

आरूढोदयलग्नाभ्यां सूत्रं सामान्यसंज्ञितम्। तदीशाम्यां तु यच्चिन्त्यं तत्स्यादधिपसंज्ञकम् ॥१॥ लग्नांशारूढराशिम्यां सूत्रमंशकसंजञितम्। लग्नोडपृच्छकोडम्यां चिन्त्यं नक्षत्रसंज्ञितम् ।।२।। आरूढतद्दशमतो महासूत्रं विचिन्तयेत्। पृथ्वी सामान्यसूत्रं स्यादापस्त्वधिपसंज्ञितम् ।। ३॥ तेजस्त्वंशकसूतं स्यादुडुसूत्रं तु मारुतः । आकाशस्तु महासूत्रमित्येतत्सूत्रपश्चकम् ।।४।। Stanzas 1 to 4 .- Samanya Sutra is determined by Arudha and rising Lagna; Adhipati Sutra is to be noted by the lords of these two signs. Amsaka Sutra is arrived at by the Lagna Navamsa and Arudha. Nakshatra Sutra is calculated by noting the Janma Nakshatra of the questioner and the asterism of the sign rising at the time of the query. Mahasutra is worked out by Arudha 12

178 Prasna Marga

and the 10th from it Samanya, Adhipati, Amsaka, Nakshatra and Maba Sutras respectively are earthy, watery, fiery, and ethereal

प्राधान्येन विचिन्त्यं स्यात्पश्चभूतात्मकत्वतः । आरूढोदययोर्द्वन्द्वं चरराशिगतं यदि ॥५॥

द्वन्द्व एकं स्थिरेन्यद्वा जीवसूत्रमिति द्विधा। आरूढोदययोरेकं चरे स्यादुदये परम् ॥ ६ ॥ द्वितयं वा स्थिरे तद्वन्मृतिसूत्रमपि द्विधा। चरसंस्थं तयोरेकमपरं स्थिरसंज्ञितम्।।७।। द्वयं वोभयराशिस्थं रोगसूत्रमपि द्विधा। चिन्तनेंशकसूत्रस्याप्ययं न्यायो विचिन्त्यताम्॥८॥ Stanzas 5 to 8 .- If Arudha and rising sign are both movable or if one is common and the other is fixed, it is Samanya Sutra termed Jeeva. If both of these are fixed Rasis or if one is movable and the other common, it is Mrityu Sutra. If both are common or if one is movable and the other fixed, it is Roga Sutra. The same applies to Amsaka Sutra also. NOTES Five kinds ot sutras have been enumerated in stanzas 1 to 4. They are Samanya, Adhipati, Amsaka, Nakshatra

The Five Sutras 179

and Maha Sutras. The method of their determination is also given. Samanya Sutra and Amsaka Sutra come to be called Jeeva (life), Mrityu (death) and Roga .(disease) by the following dispositions of Arudha and Lagna: Jeera Mrityu Roga (1) Both movable (1) both fixed (1) both common (2) One common (2) one movable (2) one movable and other and other and other fixed common fixed.

चरे चरस्थिर द्वंद्वास्थिरे द्वंद्वचरस्थिराः । द्वंद्वे स्थिरोभयचरा जीवो रोगो मृतिः क्रमात् ।।९।। Stanza 9 .- If Arudha and rising sign are both movable or one is fixed and the other common, it becomes Jeeva. If both are common or if one is movable and the other fixed, it is Roga. If both are fixed or one is common and the other movable, it is Mrityu. NOTES This stanza is merely a repetition of the previous one, applicable to Samanya and Amsaka Sutras.

आरूढस्य च लग्नस्य पत्योरैक्ये च सौहृदे। जीवसूत्रं विजानीयात्समत्वे रोगदं भवेत् ॥१० ।। तयोश्शात्रवभावे तु सूत्रं तु मरणप्रदम्। गणयेल्लग्ननक्षत्रादारम्य प्रष्ट्रजन्मभम् ।।११।।

180 Prasna Marga त्रिमिस्तां गणयेत्संख्यामेकशेषे तु जीवकृत्। द्विशेषे रोगदं सूत्रं निश्शेषे मरणप्रदम् ॥१२।। Stanzas 10, 11 and 12 .- If the lords of Arudha and Lagna are the same or if they be mutual friends, it is Jeeva Sutra. If they are neutral, then it is Roga Sutra. If they happen to be enemies, then it is Mrityu Sutra. Count from Udaya Lagna Nakshatra to the Janma Nakshatra of the questioner and divide it by 3. If the remainder is one, it is Jeeva Sutra; if the remainder is 2, it is Roga Sutra; if 'the remainder is zero, it is Mrityu Sutra. NOTES Here a question arises that in the Adhipati Sutra if the lords happen to be neither neutral nor friendly nor inimical, as one planet may be friendly towards another while the other planet may be only neutral, how we should proceed? The answer would be as follows :- Friend + Friend is Jeeva Friend + Neutral is Jeeva Friend + Enemy is Roga Neutral + Friend is Jeeva Neutral + Neutral is Roga Neutral + Enemy is Mrityu Enemy + Friend is Roga Enemy + Neutral is Mrityu Enemy + Enemy is Mrityu

Diagnosing Illness 181

आरूढतद्दशमयोर्द्वितयं चन्द्रराशिगम्। यदि जीवनदं सूत्रं द्वयं चेत्सूर्यराशिगम्॥१३। मृत्युसूत्रं तदा ज्ञेयं यदा तु पुनरेनयोः । एकं चादरं परं मौरं रोगसूत्रं तदाभवेत्॥१४।।

Stanzas 13 and 14. -Ii both Arudha Rasi and 10th from it are lunar signs, then it is Jeeva. If both are solar signs. then it is Mrityu. If one is lunar and the other solar, then it is Roga.

NOTES Mesha, Vrishabha, Mithuna, Karkataka, Dhanus, Makara and Meena are lunar or Chandra Rasis or Nocturnal signs, Simha, Kanya, Thula, Vrischika and the lat ter half of Kumbha are solar or Surya Rasis or Diurnal signs.

DIOGNOSING ILLNESS जीवसूत्रफलं दीर्घमायू रूक्शमनादि च। रोगोत्पत्तिश्र रुग्दैर्ध्य रोगमूत्रफलं मतम् ॥१५॥। मृतिसूत्रफलं मृत्यु: प्रष्टुस्सम्बन्धिनामपि। प्रेप्सिताप्तिरपि प्रष्टुः सूत्रे जीवनदायिनि ॥१६।। रोगदे कार्यनाशादिर्दुःखं भीरपि मृत्युदे। अत्र ग्रन्थान्तरं चास्ति तदैवातु विलिग्व्यते ॥१७॥।

182 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 15, 16 and 17 .- The effect of Jeeva Sutra is long life and recovery from sickness. Roga Sutra indicates prolongation of illness and attack from fresh diseases. The effect of Mrityu Sutra is death of the questioner's relative. In a Karya Prasna, Jeeva, Roga and Mrityu Sutras denote respectively success in undertakings, sorrow and failure in undertakings and fear.

NOTES After ascertaining the various major sutras such as Samanya, Adhipatya, etc., and their location in the three important sub-sutras, viz.,, Jeeva, Mrityu and Roga, results of a question have to be guaged as per stanzas 15, 16 and 17. The effects are continued further in the next sutra.

RESULTS OF SUTRAS

आयुवीर्य धनमपि तथा वर्द्धते जीवसूत्रे रुक्सूत्रं चेद्धनहतिमनोभङ्गदेहप्रपीडाः।

प्रष्टुर्वाच्यं फलमिति दृदं सर्वपृच्छासु सूत्रैः॥१८।। Stanza 18 .- In regard to all questions Jeeva Sutra confers longevity, vitality and wealth. Roga Sutra gives loss of money, mental worry and ill-health. And Mrityu Sutra denotes increase

Sutras and Bhutas 183

of illness, fear, failure in undartakings and mental derangemenî.

सूत्रं यद्भूतसम्बन्धि मृत्युकृद्वाथ रोगक्ृत्। तद्भूरतांशभवान् देहे रोगान् प्रष्टुर्विनिर्दिशेद् ॥१९।। Stanza 19 .- The nature of the diseases is to be ascertained from the Bhuta governing the Sutra. The questioner will have the disease appropriate to the Bhuta.

NOTES If Roga Sutra is seen in Samanya, you have to say that it is caused by earth. The seat of the disease can be stated according to the lord of that Bhuta or element. Every Bhuta governs a particular part of the body.

SUTRAS AND THE BHUTAS

मांसास्थित्वक्सिरारोम पृथ्वी देहभृतां तनौ। स्वेदासृङ्मूत्रशुक्लास्यतोयं तोयमुदाहृतम् ॥।२०।।

द्वेषरागौ च मोहश्र साध्वसं च जरा नभः ॥२१॥

एवं हि सर्वजन्तूनां पश्चभूतमयी तनुः। षश्चोक्तान्यत्र सूत्राणि त्रीण्येवान्ये प्रचक्षते ।।२२।।

184 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 20, 21 and 22 .- In the human body flesh, bones, skin (veins), hair are earthy. Blood, urine, sweat, saliva and seminal fluid are watery. Hunger, thirst, sleep, bodily splendour, dullness of the mind are 'fiery'. Movement or throbbing of limbs, and shaking of the body are airy. Affection, hatred, infatuation, fear, old age, these are mental qualities and are ethereal. We have described so far five sutras, but some writers deal with three sutras only.

NOTES The earthy (bhumi), watery (jala), fiery (agni), airy (vayu) and ethereal (akasa) bhutas (primordial elements) have as their lords Mercury, Venus, Mars, Saturn and Jupiter respectively.

THE TIME FACTOR नक्षत्राधिपसूत्रे द्वे वर्तमानफलप्रदे। सामान्यं भूतकालेन्ये भविष्यत्फलसूचके ॥।२३। Stanzu 23 .- Nakshatra and Adhipati Sutras refer to the present. Samanya Sutra refers to the past. Amsaka and Maha Sutras refer to the future. NOTES This is a very important stanza enabling us to tind out whether a question refers to the past, present or future.

The Three Sutras 185

Detennination of the major sutras and their reference to the Jeeva, Mrityu or Roga Sutras clearly reveal the outcome of a query.

लग्नादापश्चमगैरनवमस्थैश् पश्चमान्नवमाद्। आलग्नगैरपि भवद्भावि च भूतं शुभाशुभं ज्ञेयम् ।।२४।। Stanza 24 .- Planets occupying the first four Bhavas indicate the present, the next four indicate the future and the remaining four indicate the past. NOTES Lord of Samanya Sutra is Mercury. Lord of Adhi- pati Sutra is Venus. Lord of Amsaka Sutra is Mars. Lord of Nakshatra Sutra is Saturn. Lord of Maha Sutra is Jupiter. If these lords occupy the first four houses (1-4), then say that i: is present. If these lords occupy the next four houses (5-8), then say it is future. If they occupy the next four (9-12), then say it is past.

THE THREE SUTRAS सूत्राणां त्रितयस्य कीर्तितमिह प्राधान्यमन्यैः परं तत्कण्ठाभरणे समीरितामिहाप्येतत्फलं चोच्यते। आरूढोदययोई्वयोरपि तयो: सम्बन्धि चाङ्काशयो- रादित्यांशकयोश्र यच्च तदिहारूढस्फुटं गृह्यताम् ।।२५।।

186 Prasna Marga

Stanza 25 .- Kanthabharana deals with three sutras only. They are Arudha Rasi and Udaya Lagna Rasi constituting Samanya Sutra; Arudha Dwadasamsa and Udaya Lagna Dwadasamsa making up the second Sutra; and Arudha Navamsa and Udaya Lagna Navamsa causing the third Sutra.

NOTES We have already seen above how Arudha Sphuta has to be calculated. The degree 'and minutes of the Lagna Sphuta have to be added to the Arudha Rasi, to get Arudha Sphuta.

आरूढोदययोस्तयोश्र नवभागार्काशसम्बन्धि यत् सूल्राणां त्रितयं मृतिप्रदमिदं यघ्येनयोर्नाथयोः। स्वस्वाङ्कांशदिवाकरांशकपती स्यातां च चेद्वैरिणौ दोषे त्रिस्फुटदूतलक्षणदशादीनां त्रियेताप्यरुक् ॥२६॥। Stanza 26 .- If these sutras happen to be Mrityu Sutras, if the lords of Arudha Navamsa and Arudha Dwadasamsa happen to be the enemy of the lord of Arudha; if Thrisphuta, Duta Lakshana, Dasas and Antardasas, according to the native's horoscope happen to be bad, you have to predict that the questioner will die though healthy at present.

The Three Sutras 187

सूत्राणां त्रितयेत्र जीवनकरे चांशेशयो: सौहृदे शस्ते त्रिस्फुटदूतलक्षणदशाछिद्रादिके चाखिले। अत्यासन्नमृतेरपीह न मृतिर्मिश्रेथ सूत्रादिके जीवेत्कर्मभिरेव नैव सुकरं दोषेधिके जीवनम् ।। इति॥ ।।२७।। Stanza 27 .- If these three sutras happen to be Jeeva, if the lords of Arudha Navamsa and Arudha Dwadasamsa happen to be friendly towards the lord of Arudha, and if the lords of Lagna Navamsa and Lagna Dwadasamsa happen to be friendly to the lord of Udaya Lagna; if Thrisphuta, Duta Lakshana (omens) and if Dasas and Antardasas of the native, according to his horoscope, happen to be good, then predict that the questioner will never die though very sick and bed-ridden. If there is a combination of Jeeva and other sutras, then there will be recovery by recourse to remedial measures.

NOTES If some of these sutras happen to be Jeeva and some otherwise and if the lords of Arudha Navamsa and Dwadasamsa and the lord of Arudha happen to be neutral or some inimical: or Thrisphuta, Duta Lakshana and Dasas and Antardasas happen to be mixed in effects (good and bad), then predict that the sick man will recover by remedial measures.

188 Prasna Marga

SIGNIFICANCE OF THRISPHUTA

कुळीरभृङ्गमत्स्येषु दोषजं स्याद्यथोत्तरम् । तत्नाप्यहीन्द्रपौष्णेषु तथैव तिस्फुटं भवेद् ।।।२८।। Stanza 28 .- If Thrisphuta falls in Karkataka, Vrischika or Meena, it is productive of intense trouble which is greatest for Meena and least for Karkataka.

NOTES Even in Karkataka Rasi, it is least intensive in asterism Punarvasu and most intensive in Aslesha. In Vrischika, it is least effective in Visakha and most effective in Jyeshta. In Meena, it is least intensive in Poorvabhadra and most intensive in Revati.

कर्किवृश्चिकमीनानां त्रिस्फुटं चरमांशगम्। मृत्युप्रदं भवेत्प्रष्टुरब्दमासदिनैः क्रमात् ॥२९॥ Stanza 29 .- If the Thrisphuta falls in ths last Navamsa of Karkataka, the questioner will die in a year. If it falls in the last Navamsa of Vrischika, he will die in a month. If it falls in the last Navamsa of Meena, he will die in a day.

मेपात् केसरिणस्तथैव धनुषो भानां चतुष्कं क्रमा- नसृष्टिम्थानविनाशसंज्ञमजतो दसात्तथा भानि च।

Thrisphuta Indicative of Death 189

त्रीणि त्रीणि नवांशका भवनवन्नाशर्क्षसन्ध्याह्हये- घ्वष्टाशीतितमाँशकादिषु तथा नो शोभनं त्रिस्फुटम्

Stanza 30 .- The four signs beginning from Mesha, Simha and Dhanus respectively constitute the creative, protective and destructive areas. Movable, fixed and common signs and Navamsas are respectively creative, protective and destruc- tive. If Thrisphuta falls in a destructive area, Rasi or Navamsa or Nakshatra, predict that evil alone will happen. NOTES Aswini is Srishti Nakshatra. Bharani Is Sthiti Nakshatra. Krittika is Samhara Nakshatra. Rohini again Srishti and so on in a cyclic order with regard to the other Nakshatras. If Thrisphuta falls in Samhara Rasi, Navamsa or Nakshatra in Riksha Sandhis (junctions of two signs) or in the 88th pada or quarter calculated from the pada of questioner's asterism at birth, or if it happens to be the 3rd or 5th or 7th asterism from this Janma Nakshatra, evil is bound to happen.

THRISPHUTA INDICATIVE OF DEATH कर्कटान्त्यनवभागसंश्रितं त्रिस्फुटं मरणदायि वत्सरात्। मासतो मधुकरान्त्यभागगं रेवतीचरमभागगं दिनात्

190 Prasna Marga

Stanza 31 .- If the Thrisphuta falls in the last Navamsa of Karkataka, the questioner will die in a year. If it falls in the last Navamsa of Vrischika he will die in a month. If it falls in the last Navamsa of Meena, he will die in a day. NOTES This verse conveys the same idea as stanza 29. It is repeated because of its importance. In this chapter, you will find that the author has repeated the same ideas in different verses. Most of these ideas are borrowed from other writers and repeated in order that the readers may know that they are important and dependable.

त्रिस्फुटं नवहतं निहन्त्विनैमें विना यदि तद्दक्षसन्धिगम्। जन्मगं यदि च तत्त्रिकोणगं मृत्युदं भवति पृच्छतां ध्रुवम् ।।३२।। Stanza 32 .- Multiply the Thrisphutas by 9 and drop off the Rasis. Multiply the degrees and minutes that remain by 12 and expunge all 'twelves' from the Rasi. If the result falls in Riksha Sandhis, Navamsas, or in the asterism of the questioner, he will certainly die.

त्रिस्फुटस्य भनवांशयोबेलं यस्य तेन जनिचन्द्रसङ्गमः । मृत्यवेजहरिकार्मुकांशगं त्रिस्फुटं यदि महत्तरायुषे 113311

Thrisphuta Indicative of Death 191

Stanza 33 .- If the Thrisphuta Rasi or Navamsa Rasi, whichever is stronger, happens to be the Janma Rasi of the questioner, then also he will meet with death. If it falls in the Amsa of Mesha, Simha or Dhanus, he will live long.

संयुक्तं गुळिकेन वा यदि खरनों शोभनं त्रिस्फुटं तत्र स्यात्तदुड्टद्भवो यदि निजे गेहस्य कल्प्यो गदः। दोषाणां नवकेन चान्वितमिदं प्रष्ुर्विपत्यै भवे- त्सृष्टयक्षादिगतं च सद्ग्रहयुतं दीर्घायुरारोग्यदम् ।।३४।। Stanza 34 .- If Gulika or evil planets occupy Thrisphuta Rasi, it forebodes evil. If anybody in the questioner's house is born in the Thrisphuta Nakshatra, he will fall sick. If this Thrisphuta is afflicted by Nava Doshas, then the questioner will meet with calamities. If Thrisphuta occupies creative elements or if it conjoins with good planets, then predict longevity and good health.

आद्यक्षोणिसुरागमो विधनविप्रायानमग्नेर्भयं वासोहानिरथ क्रमात्कलहभग्नायानमह्यागमः । भूदेवत्रितयागमोऽथ चतुरंध्रयापच्च बन्ध्वागमो मृत्योर्लक्षणमश्विभादिनवकत्रय्याश्रिते त्रिस्फुटे ।३५॥

192 Prasna Marga

Stanza 35 .- If Thrisphuta falls in Aswini and its trines, Bharani and its trines, etc , and an event of the following kind takes place on each of these days, then predict that the questioner will die. A rich and learned Brahmin visits the house; a penniless Brahmin visits the house; a conflagra- tion takes place ; loss of clothes ; a man comes after being vanquished in a quarrel; a serpent is seen in the house; three Brahmins turn up at the house: destruction of cattle; and arrival of a relative. NOTĘS The death of the questioner can be predicted when Thrisphuta falls in Aswini, Makha or Moola, and on this day a rich and learned Brahmin visits the house; when the Thrisphuta falls in Bharani, Pubba or Poorvashadha, a penni- less Brahmin visits the place; when the Thrisphuta falls in Krittika, Uttara and Uttarashadha and a conflagration takes place and so on in regard to other constellational groups in the order of events cited above.

यस्मिन् राशौ नवांशे वा त्रिस्फुटं तद्गते विधौ। त्रिकोणस्थेथवार्के वा प्रोक्तलक्षणसम्भवः ॥३६॥। Stanza 36 .- These events must take place when the Sun or the Moon occupies Thrisphuta Rasi, or its Navamsa Rasi or their trines. Then only death can happen.

Beginning of Disease 193

स्तम्भ वाङ्गनसो: करोत्यपि बुधो दक्पारवश्यं गुरु:। बुद्धिभ्रंशशरीरतोदकृतः शोफं भृगुः पादथो- स्सङ्गोजं कुरुतेर्कजोथ पतनं राहुः शिखी भौमवत्।३७।। Stanza 37 .- The Sun causes fever, internal heat, and severe pains in the head due to heat. The Moon causes dysentery. Mars briogs in all sorts of sores and wounds. Mercury causes inability to talk and think, i.e .. disorder in the vocal organ and the head. Jupiter causes weak- ness of the eyes; Venus causes mental ill-health. excruciating pains in the bodv and swelling; and Saturn produces disorders to one's hands and legs; Rahu is the cause of sudden fall from an elevated place; and Ketu causes ills like Mars.

NOTES In this stanza, the author details the nature of the diseases governed by the planets.

BEGINNING OF DISEASE

सूय धंशकसंस्थिते रविमुखैरप्यन्विते त्रिस्फुटे तेषामीरित आमयो यदि भवेत्प्रष्टुर्मृतिः स्याद्घुवम्। 13

194 Prasna Marga

यत्र त्रिस्फुटमङ्कनिघ्नमुडनि स्याचत्रमे स्याद्रुजः प्रारम्भोथ ततः परोडनि भवेन्मोहस्वृतीये मृतिः ।।३८।।

Stanza 38 .- Planets occupying Thrisphuta Rasis or lords governing Thrisphuta Navamsas bring about the above diseases and disorders. By multiplying Thrisphuta by 9 we get Thri- sphuta Navamsa. Sickness begins on that Nakshatra day indicated by Thrisphuta Navan sa. On the next Nakshatra day, the sick man becomes unconscious, and on the following day he dies.

त्रिस्फुटस्थैष्यनाडीमिरानीय भदशां तथा। अपहारं छिद्रमतो वत्सरान्तः फलं वदेद् ॥३९॥। Stanza 39 .- Find out the Dasas, Antardasas and Chidras from the unexpired portion of the Nakshatra held by Thrisphuta. The Dasa period is to be 1 year or 12 months only from the Prasna day and not 120 years as in Vimshottari.

मूढा: केन्द्रधनत्रिकोणगखरा मान्धशराशीश्रौ। ये च त्रिस्फुटतारसङ्जमभपास्ते दोषदाः पृच्छतां केस्द्रादिस्थशुभादयोत् शुभदा एतद्रहसं परम्॥४०॥।

Thrisphuta Nakshatra 195

Stanza 40 .- The lords of the 8th, 12th and 6th from Arudha, planets that occupy these houses, planets in debilitation, in combustion, evil planets that occupy the ?nd, kendra and trikona houses, the lords of the house and Navamsa occupied by Gulika, and the lords of the 3rd, 5th and 7th asterisms from Thrisphuta Nakshatra bring in evil. Good planets occupying the 2nd, kendras and trikonas, and the lords of the 9th and 1lth bring about invariably good results. These principles are a special secret.

THRISPHUTA NAKSHATRA

योंशसित्रिस्फुटगोसय यातघाटेका धीघ्ना विभज्य स्थिरैः शिष्टं त्रिस्पुटतारकादि गणयेदत्रागतं मृत्युभम्। तारं चाथ चतुस्पुटस्थमिह तु व्याघे: शमः स्याद्यदि प्रष्टुस्तर्हि चतुस्फुटोडुजनुषं बन्धुं विशेदामयः ॥४१॥

Stanza 41 .- Note down the Thrisphuta Navamsa. Find out the expired portion in ghatis. Multiply this by 9, and divide the product by 27. Count the remainder from the Thrisphuta Nakshatra. The result is Mrityu Nakshatra. On that day the questioner will die. Chathusphuta Nakshatra also may be taken as Mrityu Nakshatra

196 Prasna Marga

-- not for the questioner but for any one in the family born on the Chathusphuta Nakshatra day. On that day, the relative concerned will fall ill.

त्रिस्फुटस्थगृहगो यढा भवेद्दानुरिन्दुरथवात्र वा मृति।ः। निर्णयस्त्विह गुरूपदेशतो जायते बहुपरीक्षणैरापे ।४२।। Stanza 42 .- When the Sun or the Moon transits the Thrisphuta Rasi, death will take place. The conclusion must be based upon experience and the guidance of the preceptor.

लग्नाहिमान्दीन्दुरविस्फुटानां योगे भवेयुर्यदि जन्मभानि। वघक्षव्रनाशिकपौष्णभानि मृत्युर्विपत्प्रत्यरयोश् सद्य: ॥४३।। Stanza 43 .- If Panchasphuta happens to be the Janma Nakshatra of the questioner, or its trines or the 3rd, 5th or 7th Nakshatras, or the 88th quarter from the quarter of his asterism, or Revati, then predict that the questioner will die soon.

लग्नस्यांशमसुं वपुकशशभृतो मान्देश् मृत्युं विदु- स्तद्योगेक्षणवर्जितो वपुरस युक्तक्षितौ चेन्मिथः।

Thrisphuta Nakshatra 197

पीडा स्याद्वपुषो रुजाथ तदमोर्मोहप्रदं पृच्छताम् ।।४४।।

Stanza 44. -By multiplying Lagna ,phuta by 9, we get Pranasphuta. By multiplying the Moon by 9, we get Dehasphuta. By multiplying Gulika by 9, we get Mrityusphuta. If Pranasphuta and Dehasphuta mutually aspect or combine, and they are free from the aspect or association of Mrityu- sphuta, then predict 'long life'. If Dehasphuta is afflicted by Mrityusphuta, predict long sickness. If Pranasphuta is in any way conjoined with Mrityusphuta, say there will be fits and unconsciousness.

द्वंन्द्वांशे यदि लग्नचन्द्रगुळिका मृत्युप्रदा रोगदाः प्रष्ुस्ते स्थिरभागगा यदि चरांशेष्वायुरारोग्यदाः । अन्योन्यं यदि ने त्रिकोणभगताभागा महारोगदा दृष्टा मोहकरा युता मरणदाः कर्कित्रिकोणे दृढम् ॥४५।। Stanza 45. If Lagna Navamsa, Chandra Navamsa and Gulika Navamsa happen to be common signs, predict death. If they are fixed signs, predict sichness and in movable signs, predict sound health and long life. If these

198 Prasna Marga

Amsas happen to be in mutual trines, severe illness will result; if they aspect mutually, they cause stupor; and if they are conjoined in a house trine to Cancer, death is certain.

प्राम्लग्नं पञ्चनिघ्नं गुलिकयुतमसुं प्राहुन्दिुं वसुघ्नं मान्दाढ्यं चापि देहं मुनिहतगुलिकं भानुयुक्तं च मृत्युम्। प्राणाधिक्ये तु रोग: शमनमथ रुजां देहवृद्धौ प्रवृद्धे मृत्यौ स्यात्तेषु मृत्युर्जनिभमुपगते सार्पपौष्णेन्द्रभे वा

Stanza 46 .- Multiply Lagnasphuta by 5 and add Gulikasphuta to it ; then we get Pranasphuta. Multiply Chandrasphuta by 8 and add Gulika, we get Dehasphuta. Multiply Gulikasphuta by 7 and add Suryasphuta, we get Mrityusphuta. If Pranasphuta is greater,predict'recovery from sick- ness'; If Dehasphuta is greater, predict 'improve- ment in health'; If Mrityusphuta is greater or if Mrityusphuta falls in Aslesha, Jyeshta or Revati, predict death. NOTES In this stanza, the author speaks of a Sukshma Thris- phuta (a more accurate one). The methods of calculation are simple and do not need any explanation or illustration.

Thrisphuta Nakshatra 199

युक्ते तत्त्रितयं भवेद्यदिह मं तत्स्थेषु सूर्यादिष ब्रयात्तातमुखापदं मृतिमिद प्रष्ुस्समान्दावहौ।

मान्दौ दैवविदो शुभानि शिखिनि प्रश्नस्य कर्तुस्तथा दूतस्यास्य विनाशमर्कतनये प्रष्टेह यः प्रेषितः ।।४७।

Stanza 47 .- Add up all these and you get Sukshma Thrisphuta. You have to predict danger to the persons signified by the planets occupying this Sukshma Thrisphuta. If the Sun occupies this, predict danger to father; if the Moon, say that calamities will visit mother; if Mercury, calamities to uncle; if Mars, brothers ; if Jupiter, son; if Venus, wife; and if Saturn, servants. In a prasna regarding a woman, Venus governs husband. If Rahu and Gulika occupy this Rasi, the questioner will die. If Gulika alone stands, the astrologer will himself have some troubles. If Kethu occupies this Rasi, trouble will come to the man who placed the gold piece in the prasna. If Saturn occupies this, the messenger sent will be involved in trouble.

गतासुतः प्रोक्षणभक्तभादिना विद्दीनमान्दिर्जनिगो मृतिप्रदः।

200 Prasna Marga

न चेनिजाधिष्ठिततारजन्मनो मृतिप्रदो बन्धुजनस्य पृच्छताम् ।। इति ॥४८।। Stanza 48 .- Take the time of prasna in ghatikas and vighatikas; convert it into vigha- tikas; multiply it by 6. Then divide the number by 562. Then we get the Rasi and from the remiander, calculate dagrees and minutes. The Sphuta so got must be then subtracted from Gulikasphuta. If this happens to fall in the asterism of the native, predict death; or if any of his relatives happen to be born in this Sphuta Nakshatra, then predict that relative will die.

संहारगमसदक्तं प्रषुर्देहांशकादिगम्। जन्मतारात्रयस्थं च नियमेन मृतिप्रदम् ॥४९।। Stanza 49 .- If Thrisphuta occupies Samhara (destructive) Khanda, Rasi or Nakshatra, or if it is in conjunction with evil planets, or if it happens to be the 28th quarter from his 'Nakshatra Pada' or if it happens to be the 3rd or 5th or 7th Nakshatra from his Janma Nakshatra, or if it happens to be his Anujanma Nakshatra, then predict 'death'. NOTES Anujanma is the 10th star from Janma Nakshatra, e.g, Pubba is the Anujanma Nakshatra of Bharani.

Thrisphuta Nakshatra 201

सृष्टिखण्डगृहोडस्थमथवा शुभसंयुतम् । यद्वाजहरिचापांशगतं त्रिस्फुटमायुषे ।।५०।। Stanza 50 .- If Thrisphuta happens to fall in Srishti Khanda (zone), Srishti Rasi, Srishti Nakshatra, or if it conjoins with good planets or if it occupies Aries, Leo or Sagittarius Navamsas, predict longevity to the questioner.

त्रिस्फुटस्य दगाणादि वर्गेशाश्रितराशिपैः । तातमातृश्रातृबन्धुपुत्र भार्याशुभाशुभम् ॥५१।। Stanza 51 .- Find out the Shadvargas of the Thrisphuta and note down the respective lords. From them, read good and bad for father, mother, brothers, relatives, children and wife respectively. NOTES For example, see in what Rasi in Drekkana the Thri- sphuta has fallen. Note the lord of this Rasi. From the nature of this lord, read the fortunes of the father. In this way, the indications of other relatives should be given in the order of relatives in the stanza, the vargas being taken into consideration in the order of Drekkana, Hora, Nav- amsa, Thrimsamsa, Dwadasamsa and Rasi.

सुगुणैस्तैश्शुभं वाच्यं सदोषेश्र तथाशुभम्। दोषा दुर्बलतानिष्टस्थितिपापान्वयादिकाः ।५२।।

202 Prasna Marga

Stanza 52 .- If the lord is well disposed, then good will befall the concerned relative. If the lord is afflicted, then predict evil. By affliction is meant debility, evil disposition and aspect of evil planets.

इष्टभावस्थितिवीर्य सद्योगेक्षे च तद्गुणाः । द्रेक्काणाद्यधिपैरेव कैश्रिदेवं निरूप्यते ॥५३। त्रिस्फुटेर्कादिभिर्युक्त पित्रादीनामशोभनम्। चतुष्पदांशके भे वा त्रिस्फुटं पापयुग्यदि ।।५४।।

वाच्यश्चतुष्पदां नाश एवं युक्त्या विचिन्त्यताम् ।५५॥। Stanzas 53, 54 and 55 .- By 'strength' of planets is meant their residence in appropriate bhavas, good strength and association or aspect of benefics. If the Sun, etc., conjoins Thrisphuta, father, etc., will be in peril. If Thrisphuta occupies Chathushpada Rasi or Navamsa and conjoins with evil planets, destruction of quadrupeds such as cattle or horses may be predicted.

NOTES If the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn conjoin the Thrisphuta, affliction will befall father, mother, brothers, relatives, children, wife or husband and servants or dependents respectively.

Thrisphuta Nakshatra 203

दिवसत्नितयादर्वाकलहो हेतुना विना। धनहीनस्य वृद्धस्य भूसुरस्य समागमः ॥५६।।

अग्निभीतिस्ततो नाश: पात्रस्य वसनस्य वा। ततः क्षतशरीरस्य रोगिणो वा सभागम: ।।५७।।

ततः सपागमः शुद्धविप्रस्यागमनं ततः । नाशश्चतुष्पदां यद्वा दासस्य पतनं ततः ॥।५८।।

समीपे कस्यचिन्मृयुर्व्याधिताष्टमगे विधौ। भृङ्गादैद्दीोपहानिर्वा लक्षणानि मृतेर्नव ।।५९।। दस्नादिनवताराणां त्रिफुटे तु त्रिकोणगे। त्रिस्फुटांशस्य राशेर्वा त्रिकोणेन्द्रौ तदुद्भवः ॥६०।

Stanzas 56 to 60 .- When Thrisphuta falls in a particular Nakshatra and the following events- a quarrel within three days, a poor old Brahmin turning up in three days, fear from fire or a huge conflagration, loss or destruction of vessels or clothes, sickness or wounds to any one in the family, a serpent seen anywhere in the house, a pious and noble Brahamin's visit, death of a quadruped or fall from a tree of a servant and putting out of the light by a destructive fly or

204 Prasna Marga

death news -- are noticed, the order coinciding with the order of Aswini, Bharani, etc. (and their trines), then predict death.

NOTES

If in the Prasna chart, the Thrisphuta falls in Aswini, Makha or Moola and within three days, a quarrel takes place without cause, then death may be predicted. Like- wise, when the Thrisphuta falls in the following constella- tions, and an appropriate event takes place as follows : -

1. Aswini. Makha, Moela A quarrel within three days. 2. Bharani, Pubba Poorva- A poor old Brahmin turning shadha 'up in three days. 3. Krittika, Uttara, Fire or conflagration. Uttarshadha

2. Rohini, Hasta, Sravana Loss or destruction of vessel or cloth.

3. Mrigasira, Chitta, Sickness or wound. Dhanishta

4. Aridra, Swati, Appearance of a serpent. Satabhisha

5. Punarvasu, Visakha, Visit of a religious and Poorvabhadra noble Brahmin.

6. Pushyami, Anuradha, Death of a quadruped or Uttarabhadra fall of a servant. . Aslesha. Jyeshta, Putting out of the light. Revati

Thrisphuta Nakshatra 205

In all the said cases, any happening similar to the specific events mentioned should also be taken as an indica- tive sign and death predicted.

ज्वरस्तापस्तनौ मूर्ध्नि विशेषेणोष्णतेजसः । अतिसारः सुधा भानोर्भूमिपुत्रस्य तु व्रणः।।६१।। Stanza 61 .- The Sun governs fever, rise of temperature all over the body and brain fag. The Moon rules dysentery. Mars indicates wounds and sores.

ज्ञस्य वाड्गनसो: स्तम्भ: पारवश्यं च नेत्रयोः । वेदना सकलाङ्गेषु धीत्रमश्च गुरोः स्मृतः ।६२।। Stanza 62 .- Mercury denotes diseases that make one unable to think or speak or see. Jupiter causes pain all over the body and mental upsets.

शोफ: शुक्रस्य मन्दस्य सङ्कोचः करपादयोः । राहोस्तु पतनं केतोर्व्याधिर्रण उदाहृतः ॥६३।।

Stanza 63 .- Venus causes swelling. Saturn governs disability to stretch or to fold one's hands and legs. Rahu governs fall from an elevated place. Kethu indicates wounds.

206 Prasna Marga

त्रिस्फुटेन समेतस्य त्रिस्फुटांशकपस्य वा। रोगिणो यदि रोग: स्यान्मरणं तस्य निश्चितम् ॥६४।। Stanza 64 .- If the sick man has the diseases signified by the lord of Thrisphuta Navamsa or by the lord associated with Thrisphuta, then predict death.

THRISPHUTA DASA

दशामपहृति छिद्रमानीय त्रिफुटोडनः । एष्याभिर्घटिकाभिस्तैर्वत्सरान्त्र: फलं वदेत् ॥६५। Stanza 65 .- Calculate Dasas and Antardasas from the unexpired portion of Thrisphuta Nakshatra (for one year) and predict the results.

NOTES Here the Dasa period for the Sun is 18 days, the Moon 30 days, Mars 21 days, Rahu 54 days, Jupiter 48 days, Saturn 57 days, Mercury 51 days, Ketu 21 days and Venus 60 days. Vimshottari Dasa period multiplied by 3 gives the Prasna Dasa period in days. The order of succession is also according to Vimshottari. Here the duration of the year is taken as 360 days.

त्रिफुटोडसमूलेशा आरूढानिष्टभावगाः। तर्दाशा नीचगा मूढा मान्दीशाश्राशुभप्रदाः ॥६६।।

Thrisphuta Dosa 207

Stanza 66 .-- If the lord of the Thrisphuta constellation is in the Vipat, Pratyak or Naidhana stars; or occupies Arudha Rasi or evil houses; and if lords of these Rasis are in debilitated, combust or in association with the lord of the sign occupied by Mandi, the Dasa results will be unfavourable.

NOTES Suppose the Thrisphuta longitude is Leo 21° 3 '. This means the constellation involved is Poorvaphalguni. If the lord of this constellation, viz., Venus is in the Vipat (Hasta, Sravana and Rohini), Pratyak (Swati, Satabhisha and Aridra) or Naidhana (Anuradha, Uttarabhadra and Pushyami) the effects will be bad. Likewise if Venus occupies Arudha Rasi or evil houses (6th, 8th or 12th) or if the lord of the Rasi occupied by Venus is in debilitation, combust or in association with the lord of the Mandi-sign, the results can only be unfavourable.

प्रश्नोडत्रि स्पुटाभ्यां विधिवदुडुदशां मान्दिनापि प्रतीपं याताभिनाडिकाभिर्नयतु तिसृषु वै गृह्यतां तासु चैका। प्रश्ने यात्रानुरूपा शुभतदितरदे चाब्दिके मासिके वा खेटाब्दा वासरा: स्युत्रिगुणितविहृता वैव नेया दशेन्दोः ।६७!। Stanza 67 .- Calculate the Dasas from the Moon, Thrisphuta and also Gulika. Consider which would be appropriate in regard to the

208 Prasna Marga

question concerned. Prasna results are to be told either for I year or for 1 month on the basis of the yearly or monthly Dasa. Some are of the opinion that the Dasa worked on the Moon's position alone is sufficient. NOTES In stanza 67. we are asked to determine the Dasas with reference to the constellations occupied by the Moon, Gulika and also Thrisphuta and consider that which appears appropriate according as the overall effects of Prasna chart are either generally good or generally evil. Here much responsibility rests on the shoulders of the astrologer. He should carefully assess the chart as a whole and then decide the appropriate Dasa. If the Prasna chart shows benefic results, then the least powerful Dasa of the three Dasas calculated should be considered. One is of course to be guided by one's Guru in these matters. Prasna effects are told either for one year or for one month. If it is for one year, we have seen how to work out the Dasa period before. If it is only for one month, then divide the Dasa periods by 4 and we get the periods in days. The Sun 1} days, the Moon 21 days, Mars 12, Rahu 44, Jupiter 4. Saturn 42. Mercury 44. Ketu 1, and Venus 5 days.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे षष्ठोऽध्यायः ॥

सप्तमाध्याय:

ASHTAMANGALAM

वामस्थेन फलं भूतं वर्तमानं तु मध्यतः। दक्षिणस्थेन भावीनि फलानि च विनिर्दिशेत् ॥१ ॥ Stanza 1 .- In the (Ashtamangala) number (consisting of three digits), the digit on the left- hand side (100th) denotes the past, the middle one (10th) the present, and the one on the right-hand side (unit), the future.

अधोमध्योर्ध्वभागेषु वपुषो दक्षिणादयः । युग्मसंख्यावपुर्मागे ग्रहोक्तव्याधिमादिशेद् ।।२॥। Stanza 2 .- The lower, middle and upper parts of the body are signified respectively by the unit, tenth and hundredth digits. In the part of the body denoted by the even number, there is some disorder appropriate to the planet. NOTES The stanza is suggestive. The Ashtamangala number consisting of three digits denotes the entire physical body. The left-hand number signifies the condition and nature of 14

210 Prasna Marga

the body above the neck; the central digit refers to the part of the body below the neck and above the waist and the right-hand digit governs the part of the body below the waist. Suppose the Ashtamangala number is 247. The centre digit 4 is an even number. This means that there is some disorder or defect in the middle part of the body- below neck and above waist. This number is governed by some planet (noted below) and the nature of the defect or disease would be appropriate to the nature of the planet concerned. This particular chapter deals in a way with Hindu Numerology.

स्थानेषु त्रिष्ु चैकादिशेषे स्युर्भास्करादयः। ध्वजाद्या गरुडाद्याथ् पञ्चजूतानि च क्रमात् ॥ ३॥ अर्कारजीवविच्छुक्रमन्दवन्द्राहयः कमात्।

ध्वजसिंहौ मही दन्तिवृषौ जलमयौ मतौ ॥ ५॥

धूमो वह्ि खरो वायुः श्वकाकौ वियदात्मकौ।६॥ Stanzas 3 to 6 .- The eight planets, yonis, animals and Bhutas (elements) beginning from the Sun, Dhwaja, Garuda and Prithvi respectively correspond to numbers one to eight in the order Sun, Mars, Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Moon and Rahu; to the respective yonis of

Results of the Sun and Other Planets 211

Dhwaja, Dhuma, Simha, Dog, Ox, Donkey Elephant and Crow; and to the creatures Garuda, Cat, Simha, Dog, Serpent, Mouse, Elephant and Hare respectively. Dhwaja and Simha yonis come under Prithvibhuta; Gaja and Vrishabha under Jala; Dhuma under Agni; Khara (donkey) under Vayu; and Dog and Crow under Akasa.

NOTES

This stanzas are simple enough and do not call for detailed explanations. 8 numbers are taken into considera- tion. Each number denotes a particular planet, a parti- cular yoni, a particular animal and a particular Bhuta. The number is always to be taken in three digits, the 100th digit referring to the past, the 10th to the present and the unit to the future. In the subsequent stanzas, the results due to the ruling planet yoni, etc., are explained.

RESULTS OF THE SUN AND OTHER PLANETS

अभीष्टार्थ गम कीर्ति जयं भूपतिमाननम्। सभाजनपद्ग्रामसत्कृ्ति कुरुते रविः ॥७॥

चोरभूपायुधाग्निम्यो भयं स्कन्दाच्च भैरवात्। कलहज्वरपित्तासृक्शिरानेत्रगदान् कुजः ॥ ८ ॥ गुरुदैवतविप्राणां प्रसादजशुभागमम् । दुकूलहेमदन्त्यश्वसुतासिं कुरुते गुरुः ॥९॥

212 Prasna Marga

श्वगोमृगादितो भीतिं विष्जुकोपं विचर्चिकाम्। त्वग्रोगान् सन्निपातं च कुरुते शीतरश्मिजः ॥१०॥ भूषणांवरशय्यातिं स्त्रीसुखं मृष्टभोजनम्। कृषिगोमहिषीलामं कुरुते भृगुनन्दन: ।।११।। वातशूलामयं चोरदुर्जनेम्यो भयं शनिः । कुरुते मरणाद्मीति दुर्ग्रहार्णां च पीडनम् ।१२।। वेश्मसौर्यं मनःश्रीति सुहत्स्वजनसङ्गमम्। जलोत्यसस्यपानाननार्यार्ति पूर्णचन्द्रमाः ॥१३। कुष्ठपामादिकान् रोगानेत्रपादमवानाि। विषमीति च नीचानां विरोधं कुरुते फणी।।१४।। Stanzas 7 to 14 .- If the planet happens to be the Sun, there will be success in undertakings, fame, victory, honour from rulers, and honour in councils, villages, etc .; Mars-troubles from thieves, princes and weapons, fear from fire, wrath of God Subramanya, trouble from Bhairava quarrels, fever, diseases of the head, and the eyes and blood affections; Jupiter-grace of gods and Brahmins, help of Gurus, and gains of clothes, gold, elephants and horses; Mercury-fear from animals, anger of God Vishnu, skin diseases and typhoid fever; Venus-ornaments, fine clothes,

Effects of "Dhwaja" 213

cots and beds, happiness from wife, good food, better yield in lands and acquisition of cows and buffaloes; Saturn-rheumatism, stomach pains, trouble from thieves, fear from wicked people, fear of death and affliction from wicked spirits; full Moon-family happiness, mental peace, association with relatives and friends, acquisition of aquatic products, good food and drinks and company of women; and Rahu-virulent skin troubles, diseases in the eyes and legs, fear from poison and quarrel with bad people.

NOTES

Here we see that odd numbers are good and even numbers are bad.

EFFECTS OF "DHWAJA"

आरोग्यमर्थलामं च लभते शत्रुनाशनम्। पुत्रलाभं च नियमाद्ध्वजसन्दर्शनाभरः।॥१५॥

चिचदुःखं महाव्याधिं शत्रुपीडां निरर्थताम्। स्थानभ्रंशं विवादं च लभते धूमदर्शनात्॥१६।।

नीरोगत्वं सुतप्राप्तिं मनःप्रीतिं धनागग्मम् । द्विजभूपालसम्मानं लभते सिंहदर्शनाद्।।१७।।

214 Prasna Marga

विप्रवासं भयं चैव द्रव्यनाशं रुजं तथा। अपमृत्युं विवादं च निर्दिशेच्धप्रदर्शनात् ॥१८।। स्त्रीलाभं पुत्रलाभं च धनलामं गृहं सुखम्। लभते चायुरारोग्यं वृषसन्दर्शनानरः ।१९।। द्विषदागमनं रोगं स्थाननाशं वनक्षयम् । कार्यहानिं मनःक्लेशं लभते खरदर्शनाद्।।२०।। स्त्रीभोगं धनधान्यातिं सुदृदां सङ्गमं सुखम् । भूपालरत्नलाभं च कथयेद्गजदर्शनाद् ।।२१।। स्थानम्रंशं सुहृन्नांशं स्थाननाशं महाभयम्। जीवनाशमरेमृत्युं लभते काकदर्शनात् ।।२२।।

Stanzas 15 to 22 .- If Dhwaja happens to be the 'Yoni', there will be health, monetary gains, destruction of enemies and birth of children; Dhuma-mental worry, serious diseases, troubles from enemies, poverty, degtfdation in one's position and disputes; Simha-health, birth of a son, mental peace, gain of money, rewards from rulers and Brahmins; Dog-exile from one's place, fear, loss of money, illness, dispute and fear from accidental death; Vrishabha-marriage, birth of son, gain of money, family happiness,

Animal Symbols 215

long life and good health; Khara-troubles from enemies, deprivation of house, loss of money, failure in undertakings and sorrows; Gaja-inter- course with women, acquisition of money and brains, association with friends and relations and awards and presents from rulers; and Crow-loss of profession or degradation, quarrels with relatives, loss of house, great mental affliction, fear of suicide or death.

ANIMAL SYMBOLS

सर्पादयः क्रमान्मध्ये चत्वारो दक्षिणे पुनः । तार्क्ष्यात्दयश्च चत्वारो यदि ते मरणप्रदाः ॥२३॥ Stanza 23 .- If the middle and unit digits are represented by serpent and Garuda, or mouse and cat, elephant and lion or hare and dog respectively, the questioner will die. NOTES You will see in this that serpent and Garuda are enemies, mouse and cat are enemies and so on with the rest. Death is likely when the central and unit digits are disposed as follows :- Central digit Unit digit Serpent ... Garuda Mouse Cat Elephant Lion Hare ... Dog

216 Prame Marga

एवं कमात्स्थितेष्वेषु मार्जारस्याखुभक्षणम्। चकोरश्येनपूर्वाणासुरगग्रहणं तथा।।२४।।

सशस्य ग्रहण मांसख्ण्ड वादाय चागमः। कुक्कुरस्य गृहे भटु रेतन्मरणलक्षणम् ।।२५।। Stanzas 24 and 25 .- If the animals are found in the above order, the cat being discovered eating a mouse or a Garuda catching a serpent or a dog in pursuit of a hare, it is a sign of death.

ओतौ मध्यस्थिते वाच्यं प्रष्ुस्तल्लद्धनादिकम्। सारमेये ततो मीतिर्व्याघ्ादिम्योथवा भयम् ॥२६।।

वायसे वायसस्पर्शः शकत्पातोस्य वा तनौ ।।२७॥। खरे चतुष्पादान्द्रीदिर्द्वमे तु भयमग्निजम्। एततु सकलं प्रष्ट रोगाद्यशुभसूचकम् ॥२८।। Stanzas 26, 27 and 28 .- If the middle digit happens to belong to cat (or if the questioner jumps over a cat), the querist will be attacked by diseases; dog-he will be bitten by a dog; mouse-clothes, beds, etc., will be torn by rats; crow-a crow will excrete or scratch the body; Khara-danger from quadrupeds or wild animals;

Pancha Bhuta Effects 217

Dhuma-calamities from fire. Any of these in the middle digit indicates that the questioner will be affected by bad diseases and other misfortunes, but not death.

एकस्य यदि वैर्यन्यो मध्यदक्षिणसंस्थयोः। खेटयोरुभयत्रापि पापौ चेचाशुर्भं वदेव्। सुहृदावुभयत्रापि पापावपि शुभप्रदौ ॥२९॥ Stanza 29 .- If the 'lords' of the centre and right-hand digits are inimical to each other or if both are malefic planets, then evil should be predicted. If these lords, though malefic, are friendly, then evil will not happen.

PANCHA BHUTA EFFECTS भूतेषृ शुभदा पृथ्वी तथैवापः प्रकीर्तिताः। वद्विर्वायुस्तथाकाशसयोमी चाशुभप्रदाः॥३०।। Stanza 30 .- Of the 'Bhutas', Prithvi and Jala are auspicious. Agni, Vayu and Akasa are evil.

एकत स्यादग्निः परत्र तोयं च मध्यदक्षिणयोः। यदि तहि विनिर्देश्यं प्रषू रोगोथवा मरणम् ।३१।। Stanza 31 .- Of the central and the right-hand digits, if one is Agni and the other Jala, then there will be diseases or death also may happen.

118 Prasna Marga

RECKONING OF LUNAR DAY ETC.

एकस्थानदशस्थानशतस्थानतया पुनः । स्थानत्रयं प्रकल्प्यातो नीलभक्तावशेषतः ।।३२।।

शुक्लप्रतिपदाद्याः स्युस्तिथयः सारशेषतः। तारावाराः सप्तशेषात् प्रियशेषाततु राशयः ।३३। नवभक्तावशेषात्तु विज्ञेया: स्युर्नवग्रहाः। तथैव पश्चभूतानि पश्चभक्तावशेषतः ।।३४।। Stanzas 32 to 34 .- The (Ashtamangala) number divided severally by 30, 27, 7, 12, 9 and 5 and the remainder counted from the first lunar day of the bright half, Aswini, Sunday, Aries, the Sun and Prithvi respectively gives the lunar day, constellation, week-day, Rasi, Planet and Bhuta.

NOTES

Suppose the number is 183. Divide this by 30. The remainder is 3. Counted from first lunar day, we get the third tithi. Similarly dividing the number by 27, 7, 12, 9 and 5 we get remainders 21, 1, 3, 3 which means the (Ashtamangala) nakshatra is Uttarashadha (21st), the week- day is Sunday (1st), the Rasi Gemini (3rd) and the Bhuta is Fire (3rd).

Results of Tithi, Ete. 219

RESULTS OF TITHI ETC.

प्रष्ष्टमो भवेद्राशिः प्रषनिष्टाश्च तारकाः । यदि चेदिह वक्तव्यं पृच्छकस्याशुभं ध्रुवम्।३५।। Stanza 35 .- If the (Ashtamangala) Rasi obtained as above happens to be the 8th Rasi from the Janma Rasi of the questioner, or if the (Ashtamangala) Nakshatra be 3rd, 5th or 7th from the birth nakshatra of the questioner, then something evil is certain to happen.

एभिस्तिथ्यादिभिर्योगा मृत्युदग्धादयो यदि। प्रष्टुर्विपत्तिरादेश्या सुधायोगादयः शुभाः ॥३६।। Stanza 36 .- According as the Ashtamangala factors (Tithi, Nakshatra, Vara, etc.) are afflicted by such evil doshas as Mrityu or Dagdha or fortified by good yogas such as Suddha, etc., the querist will meet with some imminent danger or good.

स्थानत्रयेपि युग्मा: स्युर्यदि संख्या मृतिर्भवेत्। वाममध्यमयोर्युग्मा यदि स्यान्महती रुजा ।३७॥। Stanza 37 .- If all the three digits are even numbers, then death will happen. If the left and the centre figures are even, there will be dangerous diseases.

220 Prasna Marga

NOTES

Here, we have to note that even numbers cannot occupy all the three places. Hence to predict according to this is not possible. Writers explain this sloka in many ways attempting to overcome this difficulty but none of these explanations satisfy the real intention of the author. Hence the explanation is left to the intelligence of the readers.

संख्यां मध्यगतां हत्वा शुमेन विभजेदिनैः।

निश्शेषे मरणं प्रषुर्द्विशेषे सुतपश्चता ।।३८।।

स्वजनापचतुः शेषे पषच्छेषे पृच्छकामयः । ओजसंख्यासु शिष्टासु सुखारोग्यादिसम्भवः ॥३९॥।

Stanzas 38 and 39 .- Multiply the number by 45 and divide the product by 8. According as the remainder is 0, 2 or 4, there will be death, loss of children or danger to relatives. If the remainder is an odd number, there will be good health, recovery from illness, etc.

NIRAYANA SATURN

न्यस्य स्थानत्रयं द्वाभ्यां वामस्थं मध्यगं त्रिभिः।

चतुभिर्दक्षिणं स्थानं हत्वा पक्षः सितो यदि॥४०।।

Nirayana Saturn 221

चलाऊं दैवतं कृष्णे पक्षे क्षिप्त्वा हरेद्भुजैः । फलराशिगते जीवे शिष्ट त्रियनगैर्नतैः ।।४१।।

हत्वा वेदाप्तराश्यादि गते च रविजे मृतिः ४२।। Stanzas 40, 41 and 42 .- Keep the Ashta- mangala number. Multiply the left-hand digit by 2, the central digit by 3, the right-hand digit by 4. If the Prasna happens to be in Sukla Paksha, (Bright half) add to this 336. If it is in Krishna Paksha (dark half) add 648. Divide this total by 84. Divide the remainder by 12; we get the number of Rasis. Multiply the balance by 30 and divide it by 12; we get 'Degrees'. Multiply the remainder by 60 and divide it by 12 when we get minutes (respectively). When Jupiter transits through this Rasi, predict that the questioner will die. When Saturn transits this sphuta, consider that the death of the man will take place.

NOTES Here we have worked the Ashtamangala Nirayana Jupiter and Saturn. As the prasna is intended to cover one year and sometimes one month, you have to state that if these transits take place within one year or one month, the questioner will die in one day. In this way, make the calculations.

222 Prasna Marga

अष्टमङ्गलमित्युक्तं संक्षेपेण गुरूदितम्। गुरुभक्त्येश्वरं ध्यायन् वदेत्सत्यं भवेद्धुवम् ॥४३।। Stanza 43 .- Here has been described Ashta- mangala as I studied from my Guru. If predic- tions are made with devotion to the preceptor and God, then they will come correct.

NOTES The principles adumbrated in this chapter may be used for answering questions based on numerology. We are summarising again the whole chapter for the benefit of readers. The science of numbers has always been a fascinating study with the Hindus. Everything in the universe is vibration. The mystery of sound vibration had been well understood by the Maharishis and the whole science of Mantra Sastra is based on the importance of sound vibra- tions. Unfortunately, as has been the case with other sciences, educated Hindus neglected the knowledge bequeathed to us by the ancient sages and began to study and appreciate books on the so-called numerology written by the Western savants. There is a lot of difference between the Sankhya Sastra as propounded by the Hindus and numerology as understood and expounded by the Westerners. The former is based on a correct appreciation of the working of the law of periodicity and the great signi- ficance of vibratory laws while the latter arbitrarily allots certain numbers for certain letters of the English alphabet. English is not Sanskrit and 'Sanskrit' means Samyuk kirt

Nirayana Saturn 223

or that which is perfect. The vibrations released by the Sanskrit alphabets have their own peculiar importance. The numerology of the Hindus has an important bearing on Prasna or Horary astrology since the latter comes to our rescue in moments of the most profound anxiety.

The questioner should be asked to mention a number of three digits. We shall call this as the root number. The one on the left-hand side (100th) denotes the past, the central one (10th) denotes the present and the digit on the right-hand side (unit) suggests the future. More impor- tance is attached to the 10th and unit digits as they deal with the present and future.

The different planets are assigned the following numbers : The Sun-1, the Moon-7, Mars-2, Mercury -4, Jupiter-3, Venus-5, Saturn-6 and Rahu-8. In order to appreciate the general trend of affairs the root number is subjected to certain manipulations. Divide the root number by 30, 27, 7, 12 and 9 respectively. The remainder left in each case represents the Tithi (lunar day counted from 1st of the bright half). constellation, week- day, sign of the zodiac and the Bhuta respectively that will have a predominating influence. You can predict that some evil will befall the questioner if the root number Rasi happens to be the 8th from his Janma Rasi or the root number constellation happens to be the Ist, 3rd, 5th or 7th from his birth constellation. Imminent danger may also be anticipated if the root number constellation, Rasi and planet are afflicted by evil or malefic conjunctions, aspects and associations at the period in question. If all the three digits (of the root number) are even numbers, something

224 Prasna Marga

serious can be expected to happen. If the 100th and the 10th units have even numbers, the questioner will suffer from serious diseases. Multiply the root number by 45 and divide it by 8. Ascribe the following results for the remainders thus: If the remainder is 0, predict death (or a crisis for life); 2- loss of children or illness to them; 4-danger to some relatives. If the remainders are odd numbers such as 1, 3, 5, 7, etc., predict good health, recovery from illness, etc. I have given above a list of planetary numerals. Now different numbers which indicate the different yonis, animals and the primordial elements etc., will be enumerated. Numbers 1 to, 8 respectively represent the yonis (sex instincts) of Dhwaja, Dhuma, Hari (lion), Swana (dog), Vrishabha (ox). Khara (donkey), Matanga (elephant) and Vayasa (crow). Numbers 1 to 8 represent respectively Garuda, Cat, Lion, Dog, Serpent. Mouse, Elephant and Hare. The panchabhutas (five primordial elements) are represented as follows : -

Prithvi (earth)-1 and 3 : Jala (water)-5 and 7; Agni (fire)-2; Vayu (air)-6; and Akasa (ether)-4 and 8.

These details are given below in a tabular form for easy comprehension.

Number Planet Yoni or Sex Bhuta or Animal primordial element

1 Sun Dhwaja Garuda Earth 2 Mars Dhuma Cat Fire 3 Jupiter Lion Lion Earth

Nirayana Saturn 225

Bhuta or Number Planet Yoni or Sex Animal primordial element

4 Mercury Dog Dog Ether 5 Venus Ox Serpent Water 6 Saturn Donkey Mouse Air 7 Moon Elephant Elephant Water 8 Rahu Crow Hare Ether

Reduce the root number to a single digit and find out the planet presiding over it and predict the following results. If the Sun presides over the number-the object in view will be gained. If the question refers to politics, success will attend and honour will flow. The Moon- mental peace, domestic happiness, plenty of food, and acquisition of desired object. The Moon at the time of question should be powerful to give all these results in full measure. Mars-accidents, injuries from fire and weapons, quarrels, head diseases and troubles from thieves. Prasna always refers to immediate future-1 day to 1 year-and these results are to happen within this period. Mercury-itches, skin eruptions and sores in the body, lingering or intermittent fever, troubles from domestic animals such as dogs, cats, etc., and losses in trade and business. Jupiter - access to gold, realisation of objects, blessings from preceptors and holy people and smooth sailing in all affairs. Venus-good sexual enjoyments, happiness with wife, good income and acquisition of monies and ornaments. Saturn-colic pains, sorrow, misunder- standings, fear from spirits and hobgoblins, rheumatism 15

226 Prasna Marga

and bad results in general. Rahu-skin diseases of a virulent type, eye troubles, misunderstandings, fear from poison, snakes and reptiles. There is difference of opinion as to whether the unit digit of the root number is to be taken or the root number should be reduced to a single digit for purposes of predic- tions. The unit represents the future and it seems reason- able to take the unit digit for ascertaining anything pertaining to the future. For purposes of answering questions pertaining to Medical astrology the root number as a whole represents the physical body. The left-hand digit describes the condition and nature of the body above the neck, the central digit suggests the condition of the body between the neck and the waist while the unit figure reveals the defects in the body below the waist. Even numbers indicate some disorder and the nature of the affliction is denoted by the planet representing the number and the diseases ruled by it. Suppose the root number is 563. The centre figure is an even number. The part of the body is between neck and waist. 6 is ruled by.Saturn. Therefore the questioner suffers from a disease indicated by Saturn in the portion of the body between the neck and the waist. If the central and unit digits are represented by the following pairs of animals, much evil will befall the questioner : Central digit Right hand digit Serpent Garuda Mouse Cat Elephant Lion Hare Dog

Nirayana Saturn 227

The above disposition is even indicative of early death and the questioner or his relatives should be duly warned of the impending disaster. If the middle digit is the one representing cat's yoni, you have to predict that the questioner simply suffers from diseases; if dog's yoni say he will be bitten by a dog and that he should be careful. If the crow's yoni comes in the middle number, then you will have a scratch made on your body by a crow. Danger from quadrupeds or wild animals should be suggested if the middle number is that of a donkey's yoni. Calamities from fire are likely if the dhuma yoni comes in the middle. In all the above circumstances, misfortunes and diseases should be predicted and not death. Likewise if the planets ruling the middle and last numbers are inimical to each other or both are natural malefics, then predict evil. If the evil planets are friendly, then no evil can happen. In a like manner, if the middle and the last digits represent prithvi (earth) and jala (water), it indicates good. Agni, Vayu and Akasa portend evil. Thus Agni and Vayu are good and Agni and Jala are evil.

An Example

Let Janma Rasi be Taurus and the root number 563. Let Janma constellation be Mrigasira. Past Present Future

Root Number : 5 6 3

Venus Saturn Jupiter Ox-yoni Donkey-yoni Lion-yoni Serpent Mouse Lion Water Air Earth

228 Prasna Marga

Dividing the root number by 30. 27, 7, 12, 9 and 5 respectively we get : Root number lunar day-8th of dark half. Root number constellation -- Dhanishta-5th from Moola. Root number week-day Tuesday Root number sign Aquarius Root number planet Venus

The root number Rasi is 10th from Janma Rasi. The root number constellation is the 1st from birth star. The root number planets own the Janma Rasi. Thus the root number dispositions are fairly powerful and favourable. Multiplying root number by 45 and dividing the product by (563 × 45) 8, we get 7 as remainder, indicating good 8 health, and recovery from illness. The hundredth digit is presided over by Venus a benefic indicating a good past, 6 being ruled by Saturn, the present is evil and the questioner suffers from a disease indicated by Saturn between the neck and waist. The number in the unit place is that of Jupiter suggesting realisation of the object. The middle number is presided over by donkey- yoni foreboding troubles from quadrupeds. Summing up: The disposition of root number, lunar tithi, etc., towards your birth elements being favourable, good time is indicated in the immediate future. Saturn rules the middle number and this suggests that you are having either colic or some rheumatic troubles in the region between the neck and the waist. This is likely to dis- appear shortly. Good health is indicated. The immediate

Nirayana Saturn 229

past was good while the present indicates anxious moments. You need not have to worry about the future as Jupiter ruling the unit digit will confer happiness and enable you to realise the objects in your mind. As the middle number is ruled by a donkey-yoni, be careful as trouble from quadrupeds is indicated. We see how the science of numbers is of immense use to us in its application to Prasna or Horary astrology. One should be very careful in the discrimination of the astro- logical evidences as otherwise the conclusions are bound to go wrong.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे सप्तमाऽध्यायः ॥

अष्टमाऽध्याय:

EFFECTS OF ARUDHA

चन्द्राधिष्ठितराशिश चिन्त्या: षद्प्रश्नकर्मणि ॥१॥ Stanza 1 .- In Prasna Kriya, six Rasis, viz., Arudha, Lagna, Navamsa Lagna, Chatra, Spri- shtanga and Janma should be examined.

NOTES In this chapter. the author goes on to deal with the effects of Arudha. Sprishtanga Rasi is the sign corres- sponding to the organ touched by the querist. The allocation of organs to the twelve signs should be consi- dered as given by Varahamihira, viz., the head, face, chest, heart, belly, waist, abdomen. sex organs, thighs, knees, buttocks and feet are governed in regular order by Aries and the succeeding signs. Chatra Rasi is determined by noting what is called the Veethi Rasi. If the Sun occupies Vrishabha, Mithuna, Kataka and Simha, the Veethi Rasi is Mesha. If the Sun occupies Vrischika, Dhanus, Makara and Kumbha, Veethi Rasi is Mithuna. If the Sun occupies Kanya, Thula, Meenia and Mesha, Veethi Rasi is Vrishabha. Count the number of Rasis from Arudha to Lagna and mark the same number of Rasis from Veethi Rasi, then we get the Chatra Rasi.

Effects of Arudha 231

Illustration : Supposing Arudha is Vrishabha and Lagna is Simha. Let the Sun be in Mesha. The number from Arudha to Lagna would be 4. The same number counted from Veethi, riz. Vrishabha, would be Simha or Chatra Rasi.

एषां सदसद्योगादारोग्यसरोगतादि शुभमशुभम् । अशुभशुभावस्थाया बलवत्वात्प्रष्टुरुक्तमिति शास्त्रे ॥। २।। Stanza 2 .-- If the Rasis suggested in stanza 1 are beneficially disposed, then there will be health and other favourable results. The benefic, malefic and weak dispositions should be carefully considered and then the answer given to the querist. This is the injunction of the Sastras. NOTES The six signs should be strong by association or aspect of good planets. If they are weak by the presence or aspect of evil and afflicted planets, the questioner will be miserable in general conditions of life. The astrologer's power of judgement should be fully exploited.

यदभराशि: संस्पृष्ट आरूढ उदितोऽ्थवा। तस्मिन् पापयुतेन्रयात्तदङ्गे रुग्णादिकम् ॥ ३॥ Stanza 3 .- If Arudha or Lagna is occupied by evil planets, then the questioner will suffer from diseases or wounds in the organ governed by these Rasis.

232 Prasna Marga

NOTES If Arudha is Mesha and Lagna is Cancer and both are afficted, then both the head and the heart will be seats of disease.

आरूढोदयपेन्द्र्का अपि तद्यक्तराशिपाः । तुझ्गांशे बलवन्तश्रेत्पूर्णावस्थां तु पृच्छताम् ॥४।। Stanza 4 .- If the lords of Arudha and Lagna and the Moon and the Sun and lords of houses occupied by these four lords, are exalted in Navamsa and otherwise strong, then the questioner will be fortunate and happy. NOTES According to some Thungamsa means the degrees of exaltation and not the exaltation in the navamsa.

एते बलविहीनाथेद्रिकां न कययेदसाम्। नीचार्यशगतास्ते चेदनिटफलदा दश्ा।५॥ Stanza 5 .- If the above-mentioned ones are weak, the condition of the questioner will not be good. If they occupy neecha or inimical Navamsa, then the condition of the querist will be really unfortunate. NOTES Here a distinction is made between the Rasi lords being weak and their occupying inimical or debilitated Navamsas -- the latter being definitely more harmful.

Avasthas 133

आरूढेशे बलविरहिते रन्ध्रपे वीर्ययुक्ते तस्मिन् काले विपद्तितरां जायते पृच्छकस। अरूढेश: शुभपतिरपि प्राप्तवीर्यो विवीर्या यत्रार्यायुर्व्ययभपतयः सर्वभाग्यागमोत्र ॥६ ॥ Stanza 6 .- If the lord of Arudha is devoid of strength and the lord of the 8th is strong, then the questioner will be beset on all sides by danger. If the lords of Arudha and 9th are strong and the lords of the 6th, 8th and 12th are weak, then there will be influx of all kinds of fortune.

AVASTHAS अवस्याससकद्धन्दवं ग्रहाणामस्ति तत्समा। भवेच पृच्छकावस्था प्रोक्तं शाख््रान्तरे तथा।।७। Stanza 7 .- There are two categories of 'Planetary Avasthas', each being divided into seven kinds. The state or condition of the questioner will be similar to the planetary avastha concerned.

सप्तावस्था ग्रहाणां स्युरतिवाल्यादयः क्रमात् ॥ ८ ॥ अतिवालश् बालश कुमारो युवभूमिपौ। वृद्धो मृत इति स्थानमेदतः क्रमशो दशाः ॥९॥

234 Prasna Marga

सूर्यादुदितमात्रो य: सोतिवालो भवेद्गरहः। दिनानि सप्त बाल: स्यात्कुमार: स्यादत: परम्॥१०॥

युवा वक्रसमारम्मे वक्रगत्यां महीपतिः। आसन्ास्तमयो वृद्ध: सूर्यलप्तकरो मृतः ॥११॥

एवं द्विधा ग्रहावस्था प्रोक्ता वाच्या तु पृच्छताम्। आरूटलग्नच्छत्राणामीशेषु बलिनो दशा ।१२।।

Stanzas 8 to 12 .- Neutral, friendly, own, Moolathrikona, exaltation, inimical and debilita- tion are the seven planetary avasthas correspond- ing regularly to the seven avasthas, viz., infant (atibalya), child (balya), adolescent (kaumara), youth (yauvana), royal (bhupa), servile (vriddha) and death (mrita). A planet will be infant for a day after combustion; a child 7 days after combustion; kaumara till the planet becomes stationary; yauvana till the commencement of retrogression; king for the period of retrogression; of vriddha, a few days before combustion and mrita, when in combustion. Thus there are two kinds of planethary avastas. The strength of the lords, Arudha, Lagna and Chatra should be considered under these various avasthas.

Diseases ana Arudha 235

NOTES Stanzas 8 to 12 are very important. Two types of planetary avasthas or states are recognised. They are sthanavastha or positional state and kalavastha or temporal state. Sthanavasta of a planet can be known thus by its occupation of different signs-friends, neutral, inimical. The kalavastha can be ascertained by the distance of the planet from the Sun. It will be seen that retrogression (vakra), combustion (moudhya), etc., are due to a planet's movement with reference to the Sun, The following table will enable the reader to guess the sthana and kalavasthas.

Avastha Nature of Rasi Nature of Kala Atibalya Neutral or sama for i day after combustion Balya Friendly 7 days after above Kaumara Own house till stationary Yauvana Moolathrikona till beginning of retrogres- sion Raja Exaltation as long as lasts. retrogression

Vriddha Enemy's sign 7 days before combustion Mrita Debilitation when in combustion

You have to take the lords of Arudha Rasi, Lagna and Chatra Rasis, see who is the most powerful and then find out the avastha of that planet.

DISEASES AND ARUDHA

अतिवालादिकानां ये स्वभावाः प्रथिता इह। यून: खीसक्ततेत्याद्यास्त एवेह दशा मताः॥ इति ॥१३।।

236 Prasna Marga

Stanza 13 .- If a planet's avastha is atibalya etc., the results will be appropriate to the avastha. The 'yauvana' and other stages indicate sexual instincts and appropriate results. NOTES The author suggests that when a planet acquires a certain state or avastha, the results he indicates would be in accordance with the nature of the avastha. Here, we are required to guess the results ourselves thus : Atibalya (infant stage) indicates inability to speak, tendency to sleep, extreme selfishness and a tendency to cry and smile by turns. The Balya stage (child) is marked by a tendency to play, to do things topsy-turvy, inquisitive to know everything. The Kaumara (youthful) stage is distinguished by learing to study and think, to work and do something always. The Yauvana (adolescent) stage is noted for sexual instincts. Then manhood stage (Raja) is characterised by a domineering nature always commanding and ruling. This is followed by the Vriddha stage when inattention, inertia, pessimism, and sleep come in turns. The last stage is the Mrita (practically dead) and this is marked by absence of any activity, living in a perpetual state of fits and unconsciousness. All these characteristics can be attributed to the questioner according to the strength of the planets.

उच्चे राशावंशके वा स्थितो यो वारेमुष्यारूढराशिस्तदुचः। यद्यारोग्यं दीर्घमायुश्र वाच्यं प्रष्टुर्मृत्युवैपरीत्ये त्वसुष्मात्

Diseases and Arudha 237

Stanza 14 .- If Arudha Rasi coincides with the exaltation Rasi or Navamsa of the lord of the week-day of the question, then the querist will live long enjoying sound health. If on the contrary, the Arudha Rasi falls in the debilitated Rasi or Navamsa of the lord of the week-day concerned, etc., death will occur.

सिंहे कुक्ष्यक्षिजो व्याधिरात्मपीडोष्णरुक्तथा।

वक्षोजिह्वास्यरोगोरुच्यम्चुरोगास्तु कर्कटे।।१५।।

Stanza 15 .- If Arudha is Leo, he will have stomach and eye troubles, spiritual affliction, diseases caused from extreme heat. If Cancer is Arudha, he will suffer from diseases in his breasts, tongue and face; want of taste for anything and swelling and watery complaints.

शिरोनेत्र भवव्याधिज्वरव्रणविचर्चिकाः।

भौममे बुधमे वायुरोधनासात्वगामयाः ॥१६॥।

Stanza 16 .- If Arudha Rasi is Aries or Scorpio, he will suffer from diseases in the head and eyes, high fever, itches and wounds. If Gemini or Virgo, he will have nose, skin and breathing troubles.

238 Prasna Marga

अरूढे जीवमे बुद्धिभ्रमकर्णामयादयः । शुक्रमे व्यञ्ञनोत्था रुगरुचिश्वांबुजो गद: ।।१७।। Stanza 17 .- If Arudha Rasi is that of Jupiter, the questioner will suffer from mental troubles and ear complaints. If the Rasi is that of Venus, diseases in the testicles, aversion to eat and drink, swelling and other watery diseases.

बुद्धिभ्रमोझ्गसाद्च मलया न हतिः शने:। विचर्चिकां च कण्टूतिंत्रयात्सर्पान्वितेक्षिते ॥१८।।

आरूढे पापसंयुक्ते नियमेन वदेदिदम् ॥१९॥ Stanzas 18 and 19 .- If a saturnine sign is the Arudha, it indicates mental troubles, extreme debility, dyspepsia and inability to walk. If Rahu is in Arudha Rasi, then he will suffer from itches and wounds. These diseases can be predicted only when the Arudha is found to be afflicted by evil planets.

ARUDHA NAVAMSA आरूढलग्नभांशानां मान्दिराशिनवांशयोः । योगो रोगप्रदस्तन्र बहुयोगो मृतिग्रदः॥२०।। Stanza 20 .- If Arudha, Lagna or thier Navamsas happen to be the Rasi or Navamsa

Arudha Navamsa 239

holding Gulika, then the questioner will have bad diseases. If the majority are connected with Gulika, the questioner will die.

NOTES Four factors have to be taken. They are Arudha Rasi, Arudha Navamsa, Lagna and Navamsa Lagna. If one of these is afflicted by Gulika, disease must be predicted. If three are afflicted by Gulika, then death of the questioner should be anticipated. Here affliction means that the Rasi or Navamsa position of Mandi should coincide with the Rasi positions or Amsa positions of Arudha and Lagna. In all these cases, especially when predicting death, one should give more weight to the birth horoscope.

आरूढे वा विलग्ने वा गण्डान्तांशः सपापटक्। उदेति चेद्दवेन्मृत्युरारूढाष्टममे तथा ।।२१।।

Stanza 21 .- If Gandanthamsa happens to be in Arudha or Lagna and aspected by malefics, then death will happen. The same result will take place with regard to the 8th from Arudha.

NOTES Gandanthamsa is the last Navamsa of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces, and the first Navamsa of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. If Gandanthamsa also falls in the 8th from Arudha, death can be predicted. Suppose Lagna or 8th from Arudha is 2° of Simha. Then this has reference to Gandanthamsa.

240 Prasna Marga

आरूढे मीनमे प्रषा पङ्गुः स्यात्पापवीक्षिते। कूपादौ पतनं वाच्यमारूढेळिनि वेन्दुमे ।।२२।। Stanza 22 .- If Pisces being Arudha is aspec- ted by evil planets, the questioner will lose his legs and become lame. If Scorpio or Cancer is Arudha (aspected by evil planets), then he may fall into a well or a tank.

PLANETS AND VEGETABLES प्राच्यदीत्युक्तवद्राशीनारूढादीन् न्यसेत् क्षितौ। वृक्षादीन्निर्दिशेत्सवोक्तान् केन्द्रगैश्र बलान्वितैः ॥२३। Stanza 23 .- The eight cardinal points begin- ning from East are signified by Arudha and other Rasis. Strong planets in kendras suggest the presence of trees governed by such planets in the directions appropriate to the trees. NOTES Arudha and 2nd from it represent East. 3rd denotes S.E. 4th and 5th South, 6th S.W., 7th and 8th West, 9th N.W., 10th and 11th North and 12th N.E. गिरितरुकदळीकण्टकिवेणूनां ऋमुकनाळिकेराणाम्। तालानां च वनानि क्रमशोर्कात्स्वामिवत्तु राशीनाम्॥।२४।। Stanza 24 .- Trees found in the hills, plantains (banana), thorny trees, shrubs, bamboos, arecanut trees and cocoanut trees are indicated

Urdhva Mukha and other Signs 241

by the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn respectively. The signs ruled by these planets also indicate the appropriate trees.

NOTES

Trees are allotted to different planets and signs. For instance, the Moon rules plantain trees. Cancer also rules the same trees. Similarly the trees ruled by Mars come also under Aries and Taurus. Suppose as per stanza 24, a strong planet is in Sagittarius-a kendra from Arudha Rasi. This happens to be the 7th and the direction is west. Since Sagittarius is a Jupiterian sign, and since Jupiter rules bamboo, it may be inferred that bamboo trees are to be found in the western direction. In my humble opinion, these principles can be used for finding out the direction of lost articles in a question involving theft or finding the direction in which a missing person may have gone.

URDHVA MUKHA AND OTHER SIGNS

आरूढस्योर्ध्ववक्त्रत्वं प्रष्म्युदयवृद्धिकृत्। आधोमुख्यं क्षयाय स्यात्तत्कृष्णीयादिषूदितम्।।२५।। Stanza 25 .- If Arudha is Urdhwa Mukha Rasi, the questioner will have increase of prosperity. If Arudha is Adhomukha Rasi, then he will have a downfall. This is the view of Krishneeya.

16

242 Prasna Marga

ऊर्ध्वमुखो यदि राशिर्होरा प्रश्ने नरस्यसिद्धिकरी। अन्ये विफले हेये शुभयुतष्ष्टे शुभार्ये च ।२६।। Stanza 26 .- If in a Prasna, Arudha happens to be Urdwa Mukha, then he will succeed in his undertakings. If otherwise, he will meet with failure. But if good planets occupy or aspect these Rasis, the evil effects will be considerably minimised. NOTES The Rasi occupied by the Sun is Adhomukha Rasi. That Rasi which he has just left is Urdhwa Mukha Rasi and the one to which he will be going is Thiryang Mukha Rasi. Kendra Rasis from these are also of the same nature. In stanza 27, by "if otherwise" is meant Adho- mukha and Thiryang Mukha Rasis. Even if Arudha falls in these Rasis, the effects will be good provided the Rasi is occupied or aspected by benefic płanets.

ऊर्ध्वास्ये तनुगे प्रसतगतकार्यारंमिणां पृच्छता- मौनत्यं महदर्थपौरुपयशः स्थानादिकानां भवेद्। यद्यारूढमधोमुखं भमखििलैशीयेत विचादिमि- स्तयज्येतापि सुहृञ्जनैरपि पतेद्वाहादित: पृच्छक: ।२७।। Stanza 27 .- If Lagna, at the time of birth, or at the time of a journey, or at the commencement of a work, etc., happens to be Urdhwa Mukha,

Urdhva Mukha and other Signs 243

then success will attend all of them and status, fame, wealth and position will increase. On the contrary, if Arudha Rasi is Adhomukha, there will be decline of wealth, power, fame and position, desertion of his friends and fall from position.

NOTES The astrological principle given in stanza 28 can be applied to Prasna (horary), Jataka (horoscopy) or Yatra (travel). In the 2nd part of the sloka, 'Arudha Rasi' is specifically used implying its application to prasna only. But there is no harm in extending the scope of its applica- tion as in the first part of the sloka.

आरूढाधिपतिः शुभग्रह्गृहे प्रश्ने यदि स्यात् स्थितः क्षोणीशामरमन्दिरादिषु मनोजेषु स्थिति: पृच्छताम्। पापक्षेत्रगतः स चेदिह भवेन्म्लेच्छप्रदेशे स्थितिः सोम्यासौम्पदगन्वयात्सदसतां योगश्र तत्रोह्यताम्

Stanza 28 .- If the lord of Arudha occupies the Rasi of a benefic planet, it is to be inferred that the questioner lives in a beautiful house, palace or temple. If the lord occupies the Rasi of a malefic planet, then the house will be situated in the locality of mlechhas or the house will be

244 Prasna Marga

unclean. According as the lord is associated with benefics or malefics, the person will have company of good or bad men. NOTES If Arudha lord occupies a house owned by good planets but is in conjunction with bad planets, then the person lives in a good mansion but in very bad company.

शुभवर्गे लग्वगते लग्ने वा सौम्ययोगमायाते। त्रयादमिमतसिद्धिं प्रष्टु स्थानान्तरप्राप्तिम् ।।२९।। Stanza 29 .- If the Lagna has a number of benefic vargas or if the Lagna is occupied by good planets, then before long, the querist's position will be improved and his ambitions satisfied. NOTES The commentator suggests that by 'Lagna is implied Arudha. The position of Lagna in the Saptavargas (Rasi, Hora, Drekkana, Saptamsa, Navamsa, Dwadasamsa and Thrimsamsa) should be considered in order to know whether the Lagna has more benefic vargas or malefic ones.

द्विपदे चतुष्पदे वा भवने लग्नोपगो ग्रहः पाप: । तिष्ठति तन्ाशकरो क्षेय: सौम्योपि वृद्धिकर: ॥३०॥ Stanza 30 .- If the Lagna being a biped or a quadruped sign is occupied by malefics, the

Significance of Gold Piece 245

questioner's dependents and relatives or live- stock will be destroyed. If benefics occupy the Lagna, they will prosper. NOTES If the Lagna is a biped sign and malefics are in Lagna, the person's dependents and relatives will be afflicted or destroyed. If the occupants are benefics, good will happen to dependents and relatives. If the Lagna is a quadruped sign, effects will pertain to live-stock belonging to the querist.

SIGNIFICANCE OF GOLD PIECE

स्र्णेनारूढविन्यस्तेनापि प्रष्टुः शुभाशुभम्। ज्ञेयं शास्त्रान्तरेपूक्तं तदप्यथ निगद्यते ॥३१॥ Stanza 31 .- The gold piece is Arudha and in fact it is more important than Arudha because it is the gold piece that determines the Arudha.

NOTES The 'lay' of the gold piece has been discussed in stanzas 51 to 53 of Chapter IV to which the readers may refer once again.

जलगन्धार्तवत्रीहितण्डला भूतपश्चकम्। तन्मयं हि पुनर्ज्ञेयं जीव एव हि काश्चनम् ।।३२।। Stanza 32 .- The five Bhutas (used in a Prasna) are water, sandal paste, paddy, rice and

246 Prama Marga

flowers. Their importance should be understood once again. The gold piece represents Jeeva the life element.

NOTES It will be seen that before laying the gold piece, worship is offered to the Chakra or the zodiacal diagram and the materials used are water, sandal paste, paddy, rice and flowers. These materials are symbolic of the human body which is composed of the Panchamahabhutas (five primordial elements). It is said that from the gold piece and the pooja materials, many things can be gleaned regarding the future of the questioner or the outcome of the question. If the five materials are found in contact with the gold piece, the questioner would live long. If they are found away, the person's life will be short. The conjunction of Jeeva (gold piece) and Deha (the five materials) is life. Their separation is death. If the materials used are in small quantities, then the constitution of the man is weak. If they are dirty, he is suffering from diseases. In this way by a careful examination of the gold piece and the materials, Kerala astrologers, who practise Ashtamangala Prasna, glean a lot about the future of the querist.

पुष्पाक्षतोपरि स्वर्णमुचानं पृच्छकायुषे। तिर्यङ्मृत्युकरं भूसयं न्यक्तु बाधागदावहम् ।।३३।। Stanza 33 .- If the gold piece is found on the top of the materials, facing up, the man will live

Significance of Gold Piece 247

long. If it lies inclined not facing the ground, it indicates danger to life. If it is facing the ground, he will have sickness and troubles from evil spirits.

ऊर्ध्व पुष्पाक्षतानां निहितमिह्द भवेत्सवर्णमूर्ध्वाननं चे- तत्काले वर्द्धनं स्याद्धनसुखयशसां पृच्छकस्योर्ष्वमूर्ध्वम्।

ततत्राधौमुखं चेत्क्षय उपचयतः किश्चिदारब्ध एवा- थोष्वास्यं चेदघस्तात्क्षयत उपचयारम्भणं तत्र वाच्यम्

Stanza 34 .- If the gold piece is at the top lying in its normal position, the period before him is bright and his wealth, happiness and fame will all increase. If it has fallen with the face down, then his times so far were good but the future will be bad. If the gold piece is found under the flowers and other materials with the face upwards in a normal way, his period till now was bad, but hereafter better days will soon dawn.

NOTES If the gold piece is found mixed with other materials his period was good so far; if aloof from materials, his period so far was bad ; if found with the face up normally,

248 Prasna Marga

the future will be good; if discovered in an abnormal posture, the future will be bad.

सर्वोधोधोमुखं चेत्क्षय इह तु पुनश्वापि सर्वक्षयः स्या- न्मध्यस्थे हेम्नि चोझां फलमपि सकलं प्रोक्तयैवात्र रीत्या। दीर्घायुर्मृत्युनैस्वै उपचितधनता प्राग्दिगादिप्लवत्वे स्वर्णस्याग्न्यादिकोणप्लवन इह पुनर्मृत्युरोगाद्यनर्थाः । इति।।३५।। Stanza 35 .- If the lay 'of the gold piece is towards the ground, it is bad; if it is towards or amidst the flowers, it is good; if inclined towards the East, South, West and South, there will be long life, death, poverty, and increase of wealth. If inclined towards the corners, there will be poverty, sickness, danger to life and everything.

मान्दीन्दूदयलम्नांशा र्मृत्युदेहसवश्ररे। आयुरारोग्यदास्त्वैते रोगदैर्ध्यप्रदा स्थिरे।३६।। द्वन्द्वगास्संयुताश्रैते त्रयः प्रष्ठर्मृतिप्रदाः । मोहदा: स्युर्मिथो दृष्टास्त्रिकोणस्था महारुजे ।३७॥ Stanzas 36 and 37 -If the Navamsas of Mandi, Moon and Lagna (going under the names

Signifieanee of Gold Piece 249

of Mrityu, Deha and Prana respectively) fall in Chara Rasis, then there will be long life and good health. If they fall in fixed signs, the sickness will drag on for a long time. If they fall in common signs or if they are found in one and the same Rasi, then he will die. If these aspect one another, there will be sudden fits and unconscious- ness. If they are in trines, he will suffer from incurable disease ..

NOTES Multiply Gulika Sphuta (i.e., Gulikas longitude by 9) and divide the product by 30. We get its Navamsa Sphuta which is known as Mrityu Sphuta. If Chandra Sphuta is multiplied by 9. and divided by 30, we get a Sphuta known as Deha Sphuta. Multiply Udaya Lagna Sphuta by 9 and divide the product by 30 10 get Prana Sphuta. Determination of Mrityu, Deha and Prana Sphutas Gulika Sphuta x 9 = Mrityu Sphuta 30 Chandra Sphuta x 9 = Deha Sphuta 30 Udaya Lagna Sphuta x 9 = Prana Sphuta 30

योगदृट्यादिसम्बन्धस्त्वायुषे प्राणदेहयोः । देहमृत्योस्तु रोगाय प्राणमृत्योस्तु मोहकृत् ।।६८।।

350 Prasna Marga

Stanza 38 .--- If Prana and Deha or Deha and Mrityu or Prana and Mrityu Sphutas are found in the same sign or aspect each other, then there will be long life, increase of sickness, and fits and unconsciousness respectively. NOTES Prana and Deha must be together or in opposite signs to cause long life. Deha and Mrityu should be similarly disposed to give rise to disease. Fits and unconsciousness can result if Prana and Mrityu are situated in the same manner.

EFFECTS OF 'LAGNA

क्षौणेन्द्वर्कसुतारतीक्ष्णमइसां वर्गा विलग्नस्थिता मृत्युव्याघिघनक्षयाद्यशुभदा: प्रष्टुर्यदीमे विद्ठुः। धीसामर्थ्यकृतोथ पूर्णशशिन: शुक्रस्य वा वाक्पते-

Stanza 39 .- If Lagna is in the Vargas of waning Moon, Saturn, Mars and the Sun, there will be death, disease, loss of money and other unfavourable results; in those of Mercury, increase of intelligence; if in the vargas of waxing Moon, Jupiter and Venus, good health, influx of money, birth of children and realisation of ambitions.

Effects of Lagna 251

लग्ने तदीधरे वोष्णयुक्ते जूर्त्यादिपित्तरुक। दाहश्र भवनस्याथ सविषत्र्यंशनाडिके ।।४०।।

Stanza 40 .-- If Lagna or the lord is conjoined with ushna the person is suffering from fever and other phlegmatic diseases. If with Visha Drek- kana, or Visha Nadi or Ekargala, his house will be set fire to.

NOTES These doshas have been referred to in Chapter II, stanzas 17-21. Refer also to Appendix.

Visha Drekkanas are : the first Drekkana of Mesha, Kataka, Simha, Kanya, Dhanus and Makara; the 2rd Drekkana of Vrishabha, Mithuna, Thula, Kumbha and Meena ; and the last Drekkana of Vrischika.

यद्राशिसंज्ञो लग्नांशः स राशिश्रेच्छुभान्वितः । गतकाल: शुभः प्रष्ुरशुभो यदि पापयुक् ।४१।। Stanza 41 .- If the Rasi denoting Navamsa Lagna has the association of good planets, then the past of the man can he said to be good. If it has bad associations, his past was bad.

लग्नाशराशिगे चन्द्रे लोहपात्रक्षतिर्मृतेः।

252 Prasna Marga मृत्युप्राणशरीरराशिस हितैस्त द्वीक्षकैर्वा ग्रहै- स्तत्तत्प्रोक्तपदार्थलाभविहति वाच्ये शुभायापदे ।।४२।। Stanza 42 .-- Chandra occupying Lagna Navamsa Rasi, and any metal vessel getting broken; or Chandra occupying Gulika Navamsa Rasi and any earthen vessel getting broken are the indications for death.

NOTES Some writers read that if Guliku Navamsa Rasi turns out to be Lagna Navamsa Rasi, and an earthen vessel breaks, then also death can be predicted.

EFFECTS OF POWER AND DEHA

संज्ञाध्यायदशाधनाप्तिकथनाखन्यत्र वोक्ता हि ते। ताम्राद्या नखपूर्वकास्तृणमुखाः पत्यास्य वा ते न चेत् 118311 Stanza 43 .- If, during the period of Prasna, articles signified by planets aspecting or occupy- ing Prana, Mrityu and Deha Rasis (as per sloka 36) are obtained or lost (by the questioner) auspicious or inauspicious results respectively should be predicted. The assignment of articles should be taken according to Samgnadhyaya and principles of Dasa Phala. If there are no planets

Effects of Power and Deha 253

occupying or aspecting, the materials signified by the Rasis themselves should be taken.

NOTES In all standard books on astrology and in the earlier chapters of this work different articles have been allotted to different planets and signs. In predicting profession or in predicting Dasa results, different articles arc referred to different planets. It is these 'articles' that should be considered.

लग्नेन्दूमानदानाभ्यामित्युक्तानामथो फलम्। प्राणमृत्युशरीराणामधुना समुदीर्यते ।।४४।। Stanza 44 .- Now the effects of Prana, Deha, Mrityu, as calculated in Chapter V, Sloka 10, are enumerated.

प्राणमृत्युशरीरेषु देहाघिक्ये रुजा शमः । प्राणेधिके महान् रोगो मृत्युश्चेदधिको मृतिः।।४५।।

Stanza 45 .- Of Prana, Mrityu and Deha, if Deha is greater, the sickness of the man will abate. If Prana is greater, sickness will increase. If Mrityu is greater, he will die.

NOTES Suppose Prana is in Gemini 25° and Deha is in Cancer 26°. Then 'Deha' is greater. The sickness of the querent will abate. If both are in the same Rasi, the difference in

254 Prasna Marga

degrees should be taken. If the degrees are also the same, then the minutes must be taken

मृत्यौ ज्येष्ठाहिपौष्णस्थे जन्मभस्ये च पश्चता।

मृत्यु: प्राणश्च देहश्र क्रमवृद्धा: शुभप्रदाः ॥४६।। Stanza 46 .- If Mrityu occupies Jyeshta, Aslesha, Revati or the Jann a Nakshatra or Anujanma Nakshatra of the questioner, he will die. If Mrityu, Prana and Deha are found in an ascending order, one greater than the other, it will be very good for the questioner.

लग्नेन्दुगुळिकांशैरप्याधिक्यादि विचिन्तनम्। एततु क्रियते कैश्चिदप्यथ विलिख्यते॥४७। Stanza 47 .- The above-mentioned effects can also be gleaned by a consideration of the greater longitude of the Navamsas of the Lagna, the Moon and Gulika.

NOTES In the earlier pages, we have learnt the method of calculating the longitudes of the Navamsa Rasis of the ascendant, the Moon and Gulika. In this sloka the reference is to these Navamsas. According to some authori- ties, these Navamsas should be considered in judging whether the questioner will die or if his fortune will improve.

Effects of Power and Deha 255

लग्नांशकेघिके वृद्धी रुजा चन्द्रांशके शमः । मान्यंशे मृतिराघिक्यं गताभिर्घटिकादिभिः ॥ इति 118611

Stanza 48 .- If the Lagna longitude is greater than Chandra's longitude, the result is, increase of sickness. If vice versa, there will be abate- ment of the disease. If Mandyamsa which is Mrityu is greater, then the result could be fatal.

मृत्युकालसतां प्राणे मध्यगे तद्युतेक्षिते। प्रष्ुर्मरणमादेश्यं शुभदोस्येन्दुसङ्गमः ।।४९।।

Stanza 49 .- If Prana Sphuta comes between Mrityu Sphuta and Kala Sphuta or between the sphutas of two evil planets, or is aspected by these, or is associated with these, then death will result. The Moon's association causes benefic results.

आरूढेन तदीशेन लग्नांशकाधिपैः। इन्द्रंशेनेन्दुना युक्तौ मृत्युकालौ मृतिप्रदौ ॥५०॥। Stanza 50 .- If Mrityu or Kala happen to conjoin Arudha, Lagna, Lagna Navamsa, Chandra, Chandra Navamsa or their lords, death will result.

256 Prasna Marga

RAHU CHAKRA

लग्ने राहुयुते चोरारिपुपीडा रवौ मृतिः। चन्द्रे देहव्यथा र्केन्दु राहुचक्रफलं त्विदम्।५१।। Stanza 51 .- If Rahu conjoins Lagna, there will be troubles from enemies and thieves; with Sun, death; and with Moon diseases and pains all over the body.

NOTES

Here the reference is to Rahu Indu Chakra explained in Chapter V, stanzas 24 to 26.

AMAZING PREDICTIONS

कालहोराफलं वाच्यं प्रष्ुर्विस्मापनं परम्। विश्वासार्थ खभारत्या तदप्यथ विलिख्यते ॥५२।

Stanza 52 .- The astrologer must deduce effects from Kala Hora to amaze the questioner, so that convinced at the accuracy of predictions, he may be led to place faith in the astrologer's words.

सूर्यस्त कालहोरायां प्रश्नश्रेद्भूमिपागमः । नार्यागम: शशाङ्गस्य भूमिपुत्रस्य अत्तिणाम्॥५३।।

Significance of Chandra Navamsa Sign 257

बौध्यां पारशवायानमथवा विद्वदागमः । गुरोर्विप्रवरायानं भृगोर्वेश्याङ्गनागमः॥५४।। मन्दस्य वणिगायानं भृत्यबौद्धागमोथवा। केन्द्रगाश्रेदमी खेटा नियमेन वदेदिदम् ॥५५॥। Stanzas 53 to 55 .- If Prasna time is in the Kala Hora of the Sun, then a king or a distin- guished personage will turn up. If the Moon, some woman; if Mars, some armed man; if Mercury, a flower-maker or a learned man; if Jupiter, a true Brahmin; if Venus, a dancing girl; and if Saturn, a merchant, a servant or a Buddhist monk. If lord of Kala Hora is in a kendra from Lagna, the results will be further confirmed.

NOTES The persons suggested in this stanza are supposed to arrive at the time of Prasna, either at the place of Prasna or at the residence of the querist. So much regarding Udaya Lagna.

SIGNIFICANCE OF CHANDRA NAVAMSA SIGN

यद्राशिसंज्ञश्न्द्रांशः स राशिश्चेच्छुभान्वितः । भावी काल: शुभो वाच्य: पापयुक्चेदशोभनः ।५६।।

17

258 Prasna Marga

Stanza 56 .-- If Chandra Navamsa Rasi is associated with good planets, a good period ahead is indicated. If this Rasi is afflicted, then a bad future is going to set in.

जीवस्सुतप्रदो विप्रवरकृत्रीचमांशगः। शुको वस्राङ्गनादायी विवादे जयकृद्दुघः ।५७।। पूर्णचन्द्रो मनोहारिद्रव्यलाभं प्रयच्छति। देवभूमिपयोः कोपं कुर्यादर्कोथ भूमिजः ।५८।। वृथैव विग्रहं भूमिविवादं न समावहेद्। सूर्यपुत्र: कृषिप्रेष्यपश्चादीनां विनाशकृत्॥५९॥ चण्डालापच्छिरोरोगविषसर्पभयं फणी। प्रेतबाधां शिखी कुर्यान्मान्दिश्चूर्णाद्युपद्रवम् ।६०।। बुधः पापयुतश्चेत्स विवादे परिभृतिकृत्। क्षिणचन्द्रो मनःपीडां करोति परिपृच्छताम् ।६१।। Stanzas 57 to 61 .- Jupiter in the Chandra Navamsa Rasi gives rise to the birth of a son. Jupiter Brahmins. debilitated, denotes quarrels with Venus in Chandra Navamsa Rasi gives fresh clothes and happiness from women; Mercury-success in litigation. A full Moon denotes beautiful things. The Sun causes anger

Significance of Chandra Navamsa Sign 259

of rulers and gods. Mars causes strife without reason, and litigation connected with lands; Saturn brings about loss of produce in lands, diseases to cattle, and sufferings to servants. Rahu causes fear from poison, serpents, and troubles to his inferior servants. Ketu causes troubles from ghosts. Gulika causes trouble in the shape of Abhichara. Afflicted Mercury will give rise to failure in litigation and weak Moon causes mental worry.

काल: प्रोक्तांशमासोत्र लग्नाशपि विधिस्त्वयम् ।६२।। Stanza 62 .- These results will be experienced within the number of months denoted by the number of Navamsas traversed by the Moon ; or the number of Navamsas counted from Aries. The period can be fixed by taking into considera- tion the number of Navamsas the Lagna has gained

प्रश्नकालसुधाभानुक्कियणां सदशं फलम्। प्रष्टुर्वक्तव्यमित्युक्तं जीवेनैतद्विलिख्यते ।६३।।

Stanza 63 .- The great author Jeeva wants tbe astrolegers to calculate Chandra Kriya at the time of Prasna and explain the effects.

260 Prasna Marga

कमाचन्द्रक्रिया: पश्च पश्च मेवादिराशिषु। प्रकल्प्य तत्समंब्रयात्सर्वकार्येष तत्फलम् ।६४।। Stanza 64 .- Allot 5 Chandra Kriyas for each Rasi from Aries. From this find out the Chandra Kriya of the Moon.

प्रश्नकाले गुणश्चेन्द्वोः शुभो यदि शुभप्रदः । तथा चाशुभकर्मस्थे चन्द्रो प्रश्नोशुभप्रदः ।६५। Stanza 65 .- If the Chandra Kriya is good at at the time of Prasna,' there will be good; if Chandra Kriya is bad, evil results will happen. The nature of Chandra Kriyas has to be learnt from Horoscopy. NOTES Astrological writers talk of Chandra Kriyas (60), Chandravastas (12) and Chandravelas (36). Convert the are traversed in a constellation by the Moon into minutes. Multiply this by 60 and divide the product by 800. The quotient plus represents the number of Chandra Kriya. Determination of Chandra Kriya : Are traversed by Moon in a constellation in minutes x 60 803 X+1 = Chandra Kriya,

॥। इति प्रश्नमार्गे भष्टमोभ्यायः ॥

नवमाध्यायः

RECAPITULATION

आयुर्विवाहसन्तानप्रभृतिप्रश्नकर्मसु । साधारणफलाः प्रायः समयाद्या इतीरिताः ॥१॥। Stanza 1 .- What has been explained so far can be applied to all questions pertaining to longevity, marriage and birth of children.

तत्कालजैर्निमिते: प्रष्टरूोदयेन्दुगुलिकादैः। आयुः प्रथमं चिन्त्यं स्वस्थातुरविषयभेदमवगम्प। इति

Stanza 2 .- First the longevity of the person should be ascertained by a consideration of Arudha Lagna, Moon's position, Gulika, etc., and by observing the nimiththas at the time of the query and then the results the querist wishes to know. NOTES Stanzas 1 to 3 are froin Anusthana Paddhati, a work presumably earlier to Prasna Marga. It is not known who its author is. Very little is known of the work itself.

262 Prasna Marga

EXAMINATION OF AGE

आयुः पूव्र परीक्षेत पश्राल्लक्षणमादिशेत्। अनायुषां तु मत्यांनां लक्षणैः किं प्रयोजनम् ॥ इति ॥३।। Stanza 3 .- Longevity must be examined first and then the other aspects. What use would be the other indications in the absence of longevity?

इत्यादिमिस्तु वचनैः पूर्वमायुनिरूपणम्। कर्तव्यमिति लग्नाष्टमेशञप्रभृतिभिर्ग्रहैः ॥४॥ Stanza 4 .- According to these sayings, the longevity of the person must be first found out by looking at Lagna and the 8th and their lords.

आयुरेव विशेषेण प्रथमं चिन्त्यतेधुना। स्वस्यमुद्दिश्य वा प्रश्न एष वातुरमित्ययम् ।। ५॥ विवेको विद्गैः कार्य इति शास्त्रान्तरोदितम् ॥६॥ Stanzas 5 and 6 .- The age of the questioner must first be examined. It should be ascertained from other works whether a Prasna relates to health or disease.

लग्नेशो यदि केन्द्रग: खलु बली राशौ चरे चांशके प्रश्नःसस्थगतोथ रिःफरिपुगो लग्नाधिपश्चेत्स्थिरे।

Examination of Age 263

निर्वार्यश्व महागदार्तविषया पृच्छाथ मिश्रः स चै- त्तोयर्द्विक्षयवन्मुहुः प्रशमनं वृद्धिश्चवाच्ये रुजाम् ।।७।। Stanza 7 .- If the lord of Lagna is in a movable Rasi or Navamsa or in kendras or in a strong position, then it is Swastha Prasna. If the lord of Lagna occupies fixed signs or fixed Navamsas or is in the 6th or the 12th houses or found weak in all respects, then it is to be inferred that the querist is suffering from severe illness and the question relates to disease. If the lord of Lagna is subject to mixed influences, the man's illness increases sometimes and decreases some- times like the ebb and flow of water. NOTES Swastha means doing well. Swastha Prasna means a question that does not pertain to illness or disease. Disposi- tion of the Lagna lord in a kendra, his strength, his placement in a movable sign and a movable Navamsa are the four factors favouring good health. His situation in the 6th or 12th, his weakness, and his placement in a fixed sign and fixed Navamsa favour the opposite results.

तुङ्गस्थिते तनुपतौ सघनः सवीर्यो जेता द्विषां खलु भवेत्प्रथमानतेजाः। प्रष्टाभिमानसहितोथ निजत्रिकोणे बासो विभूषणलसचनुराससौख्यः ॥।८।।

264 Prasna Marga

बन्धोर्गृहे निजगृहे च विनष्टवैरी भार्यातनूजधनबन्धुमिरिद्धमोदः। वैर्यृक्षगे रुगनिशं सुतमित्रमार्या- नाशश्र भूमिपतिपावकचोरपीडा ।। ९॥ नीचस्थिते रिपुनिपीडनतोन्यदेश- यानं पदाच् चलनं धनहानिदैन्ये। मूढे सपापगुळिके च नृपारिहेतो- वैंकल्यवानितरदेशगतो मृतो वा ॥१०।। Stanzas 8 to 10 .- If the lord of Lagna is exalted, the person will be wealthy and strong, will have fame and good name and will overcome his enemies; if in Moolatrikona, he will have plenty of clothes and ornaments and happiness; if own or friendly house, he will live happily with money, wife and children and relations over- coming his enemies and difficulties; if in inimical place, there will be sickness, trouble from kings and thieves, fear from fire and calamities to wife children and friends. If in debilitation, the person lives in a foreign place being driven out by poverty, loss of position, etc. If in combustion or in association with Gulika or malefic planets, the person lives maimed in a foreign place, through

Examination of Age 265

the machinations of enemies or the orders of the rulers, or he will be dead.

लग्नेशोष्टमपश्च नीचगृहगौ यद्वास्तगौ चेदुभौ प्रष्टा भग्नमना: सुखेन रहितः पीडार्तदेहः सदा। स्वल्पायुष्टश्लितः पदादपि निजादूध्वांङ्गरोगादितो योगेष्वप्यशुभेषु सत्सु कथयेत्केमद्रमाद्येष्विदम् ।॥११।। Stanza 11 .- If lords of Lagna and the 8th are debilitated or combust, the person will have a frustrated mind being devoid of happiness, and suffering afflictions If there are Kemadruma, etc., the person will be short-lived, suffering from sickness in the upper parts of the body.

लग्नाधिपश्च मृतिपश्च भिथः समेतौ यद्वा खतुङ्गनिजगेहसुहृद्गृहस्थौ। लग्नेशशुक्रधिशणाश्च धनत्रिकोण- केन्द्रस्थिता विदधते खलु दीर्घमायुः॥इति॥१२॥ Stanza 12 .- If the lords of Lagna and the 8th conjoin, or are exalted or occupy own or friendly houses; or if the lord of Lagna, Jupiter and Venus occupy trines or quadrants or the 2nd house, the person will have a long life.

266 Prasna Marga

MRITYU LAKSHANA

प्रष्टुस्तारात्रिकोणे स्थितवति गुळिके जन्मचन्द्राष्टमे वा नक्षत्रेशे च मान्याश्रितभवनपतौ सस्यपि प्रष्टरि खे। स्थातर्यप्यष्टमर्क्षे निहित इह पणे चात्र या जन्मतारा प्रश्नोडमान्दिगोडत्रितयपतिषु वा षट्स्वपि स्वस्थमृत्युः 118311

Stanza 13 .- The following eight combina- tions indicate death :- Gulika occupying the person's Janma Naksbatra ,or its trines; Gulika joining the 8th from the Janma Rasi; lord of the sign held by Gulika happening to be lord of Janma Nakshatra; the messenger or questioner standing in the 8th from the Janma Rasi; deposit- ing of the gold piece in the 8th from Janma Rasi; and the lord of Janma Nakshatra, or the lord of Prasna-Nakshatra, or the lord of the Nakshatra occupied by Gulika (at the time of Prasna) stand- ing in the 8th Rasi from the Janma Rasi.

NOTES

The eight conditions listed above are simple. If any of the above conditions prevail at the time of query, the person will die even though at the time of query he may be hale and healthy.

Mrithyu Lakshana 267

होराया इह जीवः स्यात्प्रषुरायर्निरूपणम् । देहः फलान्तरज्ञानमिति शास्त्रान्तरोदितम् ॥१४।। Stanza 14 .-- According to other authorities, there are two aspects to be considered, viz., Jeeva (life), and Deha (body), the former dealing with the determination of longevity and the latter with the delineation of the other aspects of the horoscope.

आयुश्च लोकयात्रा च शास्त्रेस्मिन् द्वे प्रयोजने। निश्चेतुं कोनु शक्नोति वसिष्ठो वा बृहस्पतिः ॥१५॥ कि पुनर्मनुजास्तत्र विशेषात्तु कलौ युगे। लोकायात्रापरिज्ञानं शरीरं कथ्यते बुधैः ॥१६॥

आयुषस्तु परिज्ञानं होराया जीव उच्यते ॥ इति ॥१७। Stanzas 15 to 17 .- The two uses of astrology are the derermination of longevity and the discern- ment of life's journey. When even sages like Vasishta and Brihaspathi find it difficult to scan the future, how can men understand it clearly especially in Kaliyuga? Learned men say that by Deha or 'body' is meant the knowing of life events while 'jeeva ' implies the determination of longevity.

268 Prasna Marga

DETERMINING THE LENGTH OF LIFE

लग्नं विलग्नपतिमृत्युतदीशचन्द्राः प्रष्ट्रायुषोवगमने खलु साधनानि। तेषां शुभाशुभद्दगन्वयवीर्यवत्ता निर्वीर्यतादिगुणदोषवशाद्विचिन्त्यम् ॥१८।। Stanza 18 .- The factors to be considered in determining the length of life are Lagna, the 8th house, their lords and the Moon. The longevity should be ascertained by considering whether these factors are associated with or aspected by benefics or malefics and whether they are power- ful or weak.

पापान्तरस्थितिशुभेतरदृष्टियोगा दोषो गुणास्त्रयं इमे वपुषः शुभानाम्। स्वेशसय सङ्गमद्दशौ च गुणौ भवेतां दोषा गुणाश्र खलु लग्नवदष्टमस्य ।।१९।। Stanza 19 .- Lagna becomes afflicted if it is hemmed in between malefics or if it is in associa- tion with or aspected by evil planets. Lagna is said to be strong if it is conjoined with or aspected by benefics or the lord of Lagna or if it stands between two benefic planets. The strength and

Determining the Length of Life 269

weakness of the lord of the 8th are similarly constituted. Instead of Lagna, consider the 8th. पापान्वयेक्षणशुभेतरमध्यवास- मौढ्यारिनीचभगमास्तनुपस्य दोषाः। तुङ्गात्मबन्धुभवनस्थितिसौम्ययोग- वीक्षान्तरस्थितिविलोमगमा गुणाः स्यु: ॥२०॥ Stanza 20 .- The lord of Lagna becomes afflicted if he is associated with (or hemmed in between) or aspected by evil planets, is combust, or debilitated or occupies the house of an enemy. The lord can be said to be strong if he is associa- ted with or aspected by or hemmed inbetween benefic planets, is exalted or occupies his own house or the house of a friend or is retrograde. लग्नपस्य गुणा दोषास्तुल्याः स्युर्मृतिपस्य च। केन्दस्थितिर्मृतीशस्य दोषो लग्नपतेर्गुणः ।।२१।। Stanza 21 .- What is said above regarding the strength or affliction of lord of Lagna is also applicable to the lord of the 8th. While lord of Lagna in a kendra becomes strong, the lord of the 8th becomes a malefic in a similar situation. NOTES Thus we see in these two stanzas 8 gunas for lord of Lagna and 7 gunas for the lord of the 8th.

270 Prasna Marga

क्षीणत्वं तनुगत्वमत्र निजनीचाप्तिश्व दोषा इमे। पूर्णत्वं शुभमध्यवासयुतिद्दद्वेवेड्यकेन्द्रस्थिता स्थानं तुङ्गगृहे युतिश्व गुरुणा साङ्गे विशेषाद्गुणाः ।।२२॥

Stanza 22 .- The Moon becomes evil if he occupies the 6th, 8th or 12th house or is situated between the evil planets or is associated with or aspected by malefics or he is, weak (waning) or occupies Lagna or is debilitated. The Moon can be considered good and strong if he is in Taurus or full, or is between two benefics or is associated with or aspected by benefic planets, or is exalted or is in conjunction with or in a kendra from Jupiter.

त्र्यायारिष्वसदा वासो दी्घायुष्यक्रदीरितः । वराहमिहिरेणैव पद्येन गुरुशादिना ॥।२३।। Stanza 23 .- If malefics occupy 3, 6 and 11, they give rise to long life. So says Varahamihira.

लग्नं मूर्द्धोदयं चेच्छुभपतिनिहितं वीक्षितश्चाखिलानां दीर्घायुष्यप्रदं स्यान्निधनमपि तथवान्यभावा विचिन्त्यः ।

Determining the Length of Life 271

रन्धेशो लग्नपो वा यदि बलसहितौ चानयोर्वाधिमैत्री चारूडश्रोर्घ्ववक्त्रः समयजलसमृद्धः स मूर्द्वोदयाख्यः

Stanza 24 .- If Lagna and the 8th happen to be Urdhodaya Rasis or if they are associated with or aspected by benefic or by their own lords; or if the lords of Lagna and the 8th are strong or are intimate; or if Arudha happens to be Urdhwa Mukha, Urdhodaya or Samaya Jala Samriddha Rasis, long life can be predicted.

NOTES Urdhodaya Rasis are also called Sirshodaya Rasis. Samaya Jala Samriddha Rasis are :- (1) Three Rasis from the Moon can be considered as rise or ebb. (2) The next three as fall or flow ; the next three are the same as (1) and the next three same as (2). Meena is Ubhayodaya Rasi and Mesha, Vrishabha, Kataka. Dhanus and Makara are Prishtodaya Rasis. The remaining ones are Sirshodaya Rasis.

द्रेककाण: फणिभूषणा मृतिकरा: कोलाभ गृधननाः । सक्ररा यदि शीतगौ निधनगे हीनस्य च व्याधिना । रन्ध्रे शीतकरो भवेन्मृतिकरः पृष्ठोदयो लग्नगः पापाः केन्द्रमृतिस्थिताश्र मृतिदा रोगार्दितानां नृणाम् । इति ।।२५।।

272 Prasna Marga

Stanza 25 .- Death will happen even in the absence of any diseases if Lagna rises in Sarpa, Kola and Gridhra Mukha Drekkanas; or if evil planets conjoin the same ; or if the Moon occupies the 8th house. If the Moon is not in the 8th, then the querist will die only if he is already sick. If Lagna is Prishtodaya Rasi and the Moon is in the 8th house, death will happen. If evil planets occupy kendras and the 8th house, the man will die in case he is sick.

NOTES Sarpa Drekkanas .- The first Drekkana of Vrischika, the last Drekkana of Kataka and Meena. Kola Mukha Drekkana .- The first Drekkana of Kataka and Makara and the last one of Vrischika. Gridhra Mukha Drekkana .- The last ones of Simha and Kumbha and 2nd Drekkana of Thula.

LAGNA AND ARUDHA

तत्कालोदद्राशि: प्रष्टारूढश् लग्नशब्दोक्तौ । कृष्णीयादिषु कथितं ताभ्यां द्वाभ्यां फलं हि वाच्यमिति

भूमिष्ठंस्थिरचक्रं चरति तथाकाश एव चरचक्रम्। चक्रद्वितयेन फलं प्रश्नादौ पृच्छतां वाच्यम् ।।२७।।

Lagna and Arudha 273

Stanzas 26 and 27 .- By Lagna or Arudha is meant the rising sign at the moment. Krishneeya and other works say that results must be read either from the one or from both. A Rasi Chakra is of two kinds, i.e., Sthira and Chara. The fixed circle (sthira chakra) is posited on the earth (all around the astrologer). The movable circle (chara chakra) on the other hand moves in the sky. It is by a consideration of both the chakras that predictions should be made.

NOTES The sthira chakra is indicated by Mesha, Vrishabha (East), Mithuna (South-East), etc. It is on this that Arudha has been based. Avaha Vayu drives this chakra. Its speed is unequal and not the same at all times. The chara chakra is driven by Pravaha with uniform speed: Lagna is based on this.

उदय।रूढक्षाभ्यां शुभाशुभं प्रष्ठरादिशेदद्वद्। दैवविदो व्ययमाम्यां तदायभाम्यां तथैव दूतस्य ॥२८।। Stanza 28. -Just as you read the good and bad for a querist from Lagna and Arudha, the future of the astrologer can also be read from the 12th (from Lagna or Arudha) and that of the messenger from the 11th.

18

274 Prasna Marga

अथोदयारूढमयोर्ध्वयोस्तदा वलान्विताद्द्वादशभावजं फलम्। तथात्मपित्रादिपदार्थकारकैरपि अहैरर्कसुखैर्विमृश्यते।। इति।।२९॥ Stanza 29 .- The results of the twelve houses should be read from Lagna or Arudha-whichever is stronger. In the same way, read from the Sun all about the father and one's own soul and other events from the appropriate Karakas. Questions are of two types being based on the ascendant and on the Arudha.

प्रश्नः खलूदयारूढप्रधानान्येन द्विया मतः । भास्करोदयवेलायां सञ्चरत्यपि पृच्छके॥३०।। पृच्छके विद्याया युक्ते यात्रादिचरकर्मसु। उदयेन फलं अ्रयादेवमादिषु दैवविद्।३१।। Stanzas 30 and 31 .- If the questioner is a learned man or if the query is made early in the morning walking up and down, if he asks any question regarding journeys, then follow Udaya Lagna. NOTES When the querist is moving about or when a question is put from a position from which Arudha cannot be easily

Chatra Rasi 275

fixed, then one has to have recourse to the rising sign (Udaya Lagna).

कर्मान्ते च दिनान्ते च शमिते पृच्छके निशि। प्रदेशे जन सम्पूर्णो सुष्टौ चान्तर्गृहस च ।।३२।। विषये स्थावराणामित्यादिप्वारूढरासिना। चिन्त्यमत्रोभयत्रापि खं सवं छत्रं तदुच्यते ।।३३।। Stanzas 32 and 33 .- If any question is put after the questioner has finished his work, or in the evening twilight, or lying down, or from a place crowded with people, or just to test the astrologer, or from inside a house; or if he questions anything about lands and trees, then follow Arudha Rasi. Whether you follow Arudha or Udaya Lagna, note the Chathra Rasi from these Rasis.

CHATRA RASI

मार्ताण्डे ृषतोलितश्र चतुरो राशीनतोन्यांस्तया प्राप्ेऽजो मिथुनं क्रमेण च पृष्ो वीथ्योयु यावान् भवेद। आरूढादुदयोथ वीथिभवना-तावद्भवेच्छत्रमं ग्राह्यंस्यात्स्थिरचक्र एतदडढे लग्नांशकश्छादकः ।। इति

276 Prasna Marga

Stanza 34 .- According as the Sun occupies Taurus to Leo, Scorpio to Aquarius and the remaining four signs, Veethi Rasi will respectively be Aries, Gemini and Taurus. Chatra Rasi is the sign arrived at by counting from the correspond- ing Veetha Rasi as many signs as Lagna is removed from Arudha. This Chathra Rasi is applicable to Arudha. Chatra Rasi of Udaya Lagna is its own Navamsa.

NOTES

This is important in horoscopy and all Prasnas where Udaya Lagna is followed. For further clarification of Chatra Rasi, see Notes given for stanzas 1 and 2 in Chapter VIII.

निरन्तरोदतां भानां कस्याप्यस्त्युदयः सदा।

तथाप्यारूढवाञ्छा यत्ततोस्यैव प्रधानता ।।३५।।

Stanza 35 .- Arudha is more important than Udaya Lagna for Prasna purposes. Hence wherever Lagna is stated before, take it as Arudha unless otherwise specified as Udaya Lagna.

NOTES It is the author's own view that Arudha is more important than the rising sign.

Signs of Long Life 277

SIGNS OF LONG LIFE

एतेषु दोपरहितेषु गुणान्वितेषु

दोषान्वितेषु विणेषु मृतिश्र रोग- दैर्ध्यादिकंतु गुणदोगुपविमिश्चितेपु॥३६।। Stanza 36. -In the various conditions pre- scribed already to determine longevity, if all are devoid of afflictions and are favourable, the person will live long. If the combinations are all evil, he will die soon. If the influences are mixed, then the querist will neither die nor recover from his diseases. NOTES Happiness and misfortunes will alternately trouble him.

लग्नं दोहोष्ट्मो जीवस्तयोरधिपयोर्बलम्। अन्योन्यदृष्टियोगौ च दीर्घाय प्रष्ुरायुषे ।।३७।। Stanza 37 .-- Lagna indicates Deha. The 8th is Jeeva. If their lords are strong, or are in conjunction or in mutual aspect, the querist will have long life.

लग्नादिपश्च जीवश्र शुक्रशारूढकेन्द्रगः। एककोप्यायुषे प्रष्टः किमु द्वौ कि पुनस्ूयः ॥३८।

278 Prama Marga

अन्योन्य केन्द्रषेष्वेषु दीर्घमायुरितीतरे ।।३९।। Stanzas 38 and 39 .- If the lord of Lagna or Jupiter or Venus is placed in a kendra from Arudha or if these lords, Jupiter, Venus and lord of Lagna are in mutual kendras, there will be long life.

सौम्यस्त्रिकोणधनकेन्द्रभवाष्टमस्था दीवायुषे सहजवङ्भवगाश्च पापाः। अन्यत्रगा मरणरोरकराश्च तेस्यु- र्मार्न्मिृतौ मृतिकरोपि गुणेषु'सत्सु ॥४०।। Stanza 40. -If benefics are in kendras, trikonas, the 2nd and 8th or 11th and malefics are in the 3rd, 6th and 11th, there will be long life. If malefics occupy houses other than 3, 6 and 11 and benefics are in 3, 6 and 12, death and mortal illness will be the result If Gulika occupies the 8th, then the questioner's death cannot be doubted.

सर्वेषामपि पापानां मान्दिर्दोषप्रदाधिकम्। सोतिदोषकरो योगदग्वर्गवशतः शनेः ॥४१।

Stanza 41 .- Of all the malefic planets, Gulika contributes the worst evil. If Gulika has the

Longevity from Birth Chart 279

association, aspect or vargas of Saturn, his evil becomes more intensified.

LONGEVITY FROM BIRTH CHART

वराहमिहिरो होरावष्ठाध्यायेम्यधत्त याम्। योगान् मृतिकरान् सद्यस्तत्संवादो विचिन्त्यताम् ।।४२।। Stanza 42 .- Varahamihira has detailed the Yogas for determining longevity in the sixth chapter of his Brihat Jataka. Carefully make a study of it and apply the same here.

NOTES Till now the author has given methods for finding longevity on the basis of Horary. In the following stanzas he deals with combinations applicable to horoscopy.

ग्रहचारदशाप्रश्नफलसंवादसम्भवे। सत्येव फलामादेश्यं शुभाशुभसंशयम् ।।४३।। इत्येतया तु शासोकत्या प्रश्नजातकयोरिह। संवादश्चिन्त्य इत्यायु्जिन्त्यते जातकेन च ।।४४।।

Stanzas 43 and 44 .- If the results, good and evil, deduced from Prasna are confirmed by the results based on horoscopy such as Dasa periods or planetary transits (Gocharas), one can boldly

280 Prasna Marga

assert these results. Here comes the necessity for comparing the Prasna results with Jataka.

पूर्वकर्मफलं भोक्तुं जन्तोर्यदिह जीवनम्। आयुस्तत्कर्मशक्त्य स् धीर्घमध्यात्मतादिकम्।४५।। Stanza 45 .- All beings take fresh births to experience the results of their actions done in their previous birth. Depending upon the past Karma the longevity will be long, medium and short.

NOTES, People are born in this world just to finish off or exhaust their Karma Phala. This existence is known as 'Life'. According to some only Prarabdha Karma is meant here and not Sanchitha Karma. For details about the various categories of Karma and main alibis to ward off evils read my book Astrology and Modern Thought.

अवश्यमनुभोक्तव्यं यक्तिंचित फलपस्ति चेत्। येनकेनापि योगेन नयुक्त्वायं त्रियेत तत् ॥४६।। Stanza 46. -Even if there is a little Karma left over, it has to be experienced. Effects of Karma can however be overcome by Atma Jnana (self-realisation).

Yogas and Longevity 281

शास्त्रान्तरोदितं योगशब्दनिर्वचनं तथा। योगस्वरूपसंख्याश्च तत्प्रकारोथ लिख्यते।४७।।

Stanza 47. Yogas reveal to us the results of Karma. The nature and meaning of these yogas and their number have been well explained in other works.

ग्रहाणां स्थितिभेदेन पुरुषान् योजयन्ति हि। फलै: कर्मकमुद्भूतैरिति योगा: प्रकीर्निताः।।४८।। Stanza 48 .-- Yoga means that which joins or connects. Purusha is that which has body. Yogas connect Purusha with Karma Phalas. Planets indicate how these yogas connect the Purusha with Karma Phala from their position.

YOGAS AND LONGEVITY

स्थानतो भावतः खेटैः स्यानभावनभश्नरै।

योगा: स्युः पडिवधाः स्थानखेचराभ्या तु सप्तमः। उच्चमूलत्रिकोणादिग्रहाणां स्थानमुच्यते ॥५०।। भावा लग्नादयः प्रोक्ता: खेचरा भास्करादयः । भावस्थानग्रहैः प्रोक्ते योगे ये योगहेतवः ॥५१।।

282 Prasna Marga

तेषां बली यः कर्ता स्यात्स एवास्य फलप्रदा ॥५२।।

Stanzas 49 to 52 .- There are seven varieties of yogas. (a) Those formed by position, (b) those formed by Bhavas, (c) those formed by planets, (d) those formed by position, Bhavas and planets, (e) those formed by sthana and Bhava, (f) those formed by Bhavas and planets and (g) those formed by position and planets. By sthana is meant the residence of planets in uchcha, moolathrikona, etc. By Bhava is meant Lagna, etc. The planets are the Sun, etc. Bhava Sthana and Graha are the cause of Yoga. The strongest in bringing about a yoga is the yoga- karta (composer of yoga) and it is he who gives the results of the yoga.

योगायुश्च दशायुश्चेत्यायुर्वै द्विविधं नृणाम्। योगोक्तमायुर्योगायुश्चदशाः कृतम् ।५३।

Stanza 53 .- There are two types of longevity, viz., Yogayus-that which is contributed by yogas; and Dasayus, that which is contributed by Dasas.

योगायुः षडिविधं योगैः षड्विधैस्तान् वदाभ्याथ। सद्योरिष्टा अरिष्टाख्या योगारिष्टाह्वयास्तथा।५४।।

Yogas and Longevity 283

मध्यदीर्घ मितिता दा इति योगास्तु षडिविधाः । सद्योरिष्टाह्वया योगा वत्सरन्तर्सृतिप्रदाः ॥५५॥ रव्यब्दान्तररिष्टाख्या नापेक्षन्ते दशामिमे। योगारिष्टाह्वयाव्द्यष्ठिवत्सरान्तर्मृतिप्रदाः ॥५६॥।

अब्दानां सप्ततेरन्तर्योगा ये मध्यमायुषः।

शताधिकसमा जीवेद्योगे जातोमितायुषि। आयुर्दायविधिं योगा नापेक्षन्तेमितायुषः॥५८।। Stanzas 54 to 58 .- There are six kinds of Yogayus, viz., Sadhyorishta, Arishta, Yogarishta, Madhya, Deergha and Amita. The terms of life of these six kinds of Yogayus are respectively within a year, twelve years, thirty-two years, seventy years, hundred years and above hundred years. Amitayuyoga, Sadhyorishta and Arishta Yogas are independent of Dasas.

NOTES

The author, quite in line with earlier classical writers, considers two types of longevity, viz., Yogayus and Dasayus. There are six types of Yogayus indicating death within one year (Sadhyorishta), death within 12 years (Arishta or Balarishta), death within 32 years

284 Prasna Marga

(Alpayu or Rishta), death withın 70 years (Madhyayu), death within hundred years (Deerghayu) and death after 100 years (Amithayu).

Sadhyorishta, Arrshta and Amithayu are independent of Dasas. As students of astrology know, there are marakas or death-inflicting planets with reference to cach Lagna. The period of death (maraka Dasa) should be fixed consistent with the term of longevity indicated in the horoscope. By noting whether one's term of life refers to Alpayu (32 years), Madhyayu (70 years) or Deerghayu (100 years), the appropriate Dasa and Bhukti for death should be fixed, taking into consideration the death- inflicting planets and their Dasas. Jf there are Sadhyorishta, Arishta or Amithayur yogas, then they function without reference to the Dasas and Bhuktis. This is the view of the author.

In actual practice however, leaving aside Amithayur Yogas, it is found in our humble experience that Sadhyo- rishta and Arishta Yogas also can be brought within the purview of Dasas. If Arishta Yogas are present, then death is likely before 12 years. The planets who cause the yoga can bring about death in the course of their Dasas and Bhuktis.

एते योगास्तु विज्ञेयाः सारावल्यादिशास्त्रतः ।

त्रिविधं च पुनस्त्वायुर्दर्धमध्याल्पतावशात् ।।५९।।

Stanta 59 .- These yogas can be studied in astrological treatise> such as Saravali. Thus the

Yogas and Longevity 285

longevity of a man can be divided into Alpayu, Madhyayu and Deerghayu

लग्नजन्मपयोः शत्रू निजाष्टमपती यदि। समौ वा यदि वा बन्धू स्वल्पमध्यचिरायुषः ॥६०।। Stanza 60 .- According as lords of Lagna and the 8th therefrom and lords of Chandra Lagna and the 8th therefrom are mutually inimical, neutral or friendly, the length of life would be Alpa (short), Madhya (medium) or Poorna (full)

चन्द्रांशेशस्य तद्भूषा नवांशेशोथवा रवेः। लग्नेशो बापि यद्येवं स्वल्पमध्यचिरायुषः।।६१।।

Stanza 61 .- If the lord of Chandra Navamsa is inimical, neutral or friendly to the lord of the 64th Navamsa therefrom, the longevity of the person will be short, medium or full. The Sun and lord of Lagna should be similarly reckoned.

NOTES In these two stanzas, combinations for different ierms of longevity are given. They can be tabulated thus :-

Alpayu or Short life

1. Lords of Lagna and the 8th should be inimical. 2. Lords of Chandra Lagna and the 8th from it should be enemies.

286 Prasna Marga

3. Lord of the Navamsa occupied by Chandra and the lord of the 64th from Chandra Navamsa should be enemies. 4. Lord of Lagna and the Sun should be enemies.

Madhyayu or medium life The four pairs listed above should be neutrals. Purnayu or full life The four pairs should be friends. Suppose the Moon, in Navamsa, is in Leo. The lord is Sun. The 64th Navamsa from the Moon's Navamsa would be Scorpio and the lord is Mars. The Sun and Mars are friends. Relationships should be considered in this way.

LONG LIFE AGAIN

अथ केचन लिख्यन्तेत्रायुर्दैध्यकरा गुणाः। बलवच्वं विलग्नेद्वो: शुभयोग: शुभेक्षणम् ।।६२।। केन्द्रत्रिकोणरन्ध्रार्थेष्वनयोः शुभसंस्थितिः । त्रिषडायेष्वसद्वासो विशेषेण गुरूदयः ॥६३।।

गुरुचन्द्रमसोर्योग: केन्द्रलग्पतेः स्थितिः। जन्मे शसंस्थितिश्रात्र बलवच्वं तयोईयोः ॥६४॥ अनयोरायसंस्थानमायुर्दैध्यकरा गुणाः ।६५॥। Stanzas 62 to 65 .- The Lagna and Chandra Lagna are strong; are occupied or aspected by

Long Life Again 287

benefics; benefics are in quadrants, trines, 2nd and 8th; malefics are disposed in the 3rd, 6th and 11th; Jupiter rises in Lagna; Jupiter and the Moon are in association ; and the lord of Lagna is in a kendra; the lord of Chandra Lagna is strong. Lagna lord occupies the 11th from Lagna. The above combinations confer long life.

NOTES

Wherever Lagna is mentioned in the above stanzas, Chandra Lagna should also be considered. Combinations for long life given in stanzas 62 to 65 may be listed thus :-

(1) Lagna is strong. (2) Chandra is strong. (3) Lagna is aspected by good planets. (4) Chandra is aspected by good planets. (5) Lagna is occupied by good planets. (6) Chandra is conjoined with good planets. (7) Good planets should occupy quadrants, trines, the 2nd and 8th houses. (8) Good planets should occupy quadrants, trines, 2nd and 8th houses from Chandra. (9) Evil planets should occupy 3rd, 6th and 11th from Lagna. (10) Evil planets should occupy 3rd, 6th and 11th from Chandra. (11) Jupiter in Lagna. (12) Jupiter and the Moon are in one Rasi. (13) The lord of Lagna is in a kendra from Lagna, (14) The lord of Chandra Lagna is in a kendra from Chandra Lagna. (15) The lord of Lagna is strong. (16) Lord of Chandra Lagna is strong. (17) The lord of Lagna occupies the 11th house from Lagna. (18) The lord of Chandra Lagna occupies the 11th house from Chandra Lagna. These are the 18 yogas indicating long life.

288 Prasna Marga SHORT LIFF

आयुशोल्पत्वदा दोष विलिख्यन्तेथ केचन। वलहानिर्विलग्नेन्द्रो: पापदृष्टिसमन्वयौ ॥६६॥। लग्नजन्मेशयोरमौठ्यं स्थितिश्रारिव्ययाष्टमे। अनयोरपि दौर्बल्यं परिवेषोपरागयोः ॥६७॥। सन्ध्यायां दिक्प्रिदाहादि दुर्निमितेषु वा जनिः। राशीनां मृर्त्युभागेषु सन्दिष्वपि तथा जनिः ।।६८।। पीनं धनं खरः क्ररो मन्त्ररत्नं वनं गिरौ। दिव्यनारी वरा नित्यं मृत्युभागा अजादिषु ॥६९।। मृत्युभागस्थचन्द्रस्य स्थितिः केन्द्रेषु वाष्टमे। केन्द्रायुमृर्त्यु भागस्थविधोश्वासत्समन्व्रयः ॥७०।। चन्द्रो रम्यो लयो मित्रे भूरिकार्य चिरं भयम्। गोपमात्रे मनोरम्यं मृयुभागा विधोरजात् ।७१।। ग्रहद्ृष्टस्य चन्द्रस्य स्थितिरष्टमपष्ठयोः । शुभानां वत्रिभि: पापैर्दष्टानां चात्र संस्थितिः ।७२।। केन्द्रत्रिकोणरन्ध्रेषु तथैवाशुभसंस्थितिः । आयुरल्पत्वदा दोषा इति केचित्प्रकीर्तिताः।७३।।

Short Life 289

Stanzas 66 to 73 .- The Lagna and the Moon are weak; they have evil aspects or associations ; lords of Lagna and Chandra Lagna are combust; they are in the 6th, 8th or 12th; birth takes place when the Sun or the Moon is surrounded by a halo or when there is an eclipse, or at twilight, or at the time of earthquakes or other evil omens or in the Mrityubhagas of Rasis or Rasi Sandbis; Chandra occupies Mrityubhagas in kendra Rasis or the 8th from Lagna; Chandra is in the 6th or 8th aspected by planets; benefics occupy the 6th or 8th aspected by retrograde malefics; evil planets are in kendras, trikonas or in the 8th. The above combinations indicate short life.

NOTES Combinations for short life are listed in these stanzas, Chandra Lagna has been given equal prominence with Lagna. The Mrityubhagas or fatal degrees are the 1st, 9th, 22nd, 23rd, 25th, 2nd, 4th, 23rd, 18th, 20th, 24th and 10th in Aries onwards in regular order. Chandra Mrityubhagas, i.e., the degrees considered fatal for the Moon are 26th, 12th, 13th, 25th, 24th, 11th, 26th, 14th, 13th, 25th, 5th and 12th in Aries, etc. According to stanzas 66 to 73, short life is indicated :- (1) If Lagna is weak. (2) If Chandra is weak. (3) If Lagna is associated with bad planets. (4) If Lagna is aspected by bad planets. (5) If Chandra is

19

290 Prasna Marga

conjoined by bad planets. (6) If Chandra is aspected by bad planets. (7) If the lord of Lagna is in combustion. (8) If the Lord of Chandra Lagna is in combustion. (9) If Lagnadhipa occupies 6th, 8th and 12th houses from Lagna. (10) If Chandra Lagnadhipa occupies 6, 8, 12 from Chandra Lagna. (11) If Chandra Lagnadhipa is weak. (12) When the Sun or the Moon is surrounded by a halo (Parivesha) and is eclispsed. (13) If birth takes place in Sandhyas. (14) Dikdaba or earthquakes or Ulkapatha take place at the time of birth. (15) If birth takes place in the Mrityubhagas of Rasis. (16) If born in Rasi Sandhyas. (17) If the Moon occupies the Mrityubhaga of kendras and the 8th house from Lagna. (18) If Chandra occupies kendras or 8th house or Mrityubhagas in conjunction with evil planets. (19) If Chandra occupies the 6th or 8th house aspected by any planet. (20) If good planets occupy 6th or 8th house aspected by evil planets with retrograde movement. (21) If evil planets occupy the kendras and trines and the 8th house. Thus there are 21 yogas.

दीर्घायुषो गुणेषु स्युः सत्सु दोषेष्वनायुषः ।

काल्प्यमायुर्निमिश्रेषु तेषामल्पाधिकत्वतः ॥७४॥।

Stanza 74 .- If there are more yogas for long life, long life is to be predicted. If there are more yogas for short life, short life is to be expected. If the yogas are found mixed, the intensity and strength of these yogas should be examined and then the prediction given.

Short Life 291

एवं प्रश्नवशाच जातकवशात् कृत्वायुषो निर्णय निर्णोंते मरणेस्य रोगसमयौ वाच्यावथो रोगिणाम् । निर्णोतं यदि जीवितं तु शमनारम्भादिकं वा रुजां सन्दिग्धं यदि तद्द्वयं तदुचितं त्रयात्सुघीर्लक्षणम्।७५।। Stanza 75 .- If after examining Prasna and Jataka, it is found that the questioner will die, by what diseases and when he will die, should be predicted. If he has a long life, when his recovery will begin should be ascertained. If there are any doubts, the Thrisphutas also should be examined and the indications for death and recovery deter- mined. These should be well balanced. Here ends the examination of life with the help of a horoscope.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे नवमाध्यायः ।।

दशमाध्याय:

TIMING DEATH

प्रश्ननापि च जातकेन च मृतेशचिन्त्यं हि कालादिकं तत्र प्राक्समयो गदश्व जनुषा देशश्च सश्चिन्त्यते। कार्य कालविचिन्तनं खलु मृतेर्योगैर्दशान्तर्दशा मन्दाचार्यदिनेशशीतकिरणस्थानैर्विलग्नेन च ॥ १॥ Stanza 1 .- The question of death should be examined from the birth and horary charts. In order to ascertain the nature of death, its cause and the time of its occurrence, the yogas, the nature of Dasas and the nature and positions of Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon should all be first studied.

योगेषु तत्सु योगोक्तवत्सरान्ते मृतिर्भवेत्। दशापेक्षान्विते योगे तत्संवादोपि चिन्त्यताम् ॥२॥ Stanza 2 .- Death takes place at the end of the period indicated by Yogayus. Sometimes the age as contributed by Dasas goes counter to the age given by yogas. This should be carefully understood.

Timing Death 293

दशापहारचारेषु ग्रहाणां दोषदायिषु। मरणं निर्दिशेन्णां योगाभावेत्वयं विधिः॥ ३॥ Stanza 3 .-- In the absence of any yogas in the horoscope indicating age, we have to be guided by the Dasas and determine the period of death. NOTES From this we see that . Dasayus' is very important. But 'Yogayus' is no less valuable. Certain yogas as Sadhyorishta, Arishta. etc., are not said to be controlled by Dasas. Certain yogas as Rishta Yogas, Madhyayus or Deer- ghayur yogas are to be checked by the age contributed by Dasas and Bhuktis. If Yogayus indicates, say 75 years, and according to Dasas also the same age is obtained, then one can boldly declare the length of life.

लग्नाद्वा यदि जन्मतो मृतिपती मृत्युस्थत द्वोक्षकौ मन्द: क्ररदगाणपो गुळिकपस्तैर्युक्तराश्यंशपः । राहुशैषु सुदुर्बलो जनुषि यो भावेनभीष्टे स्थितः पापालोकितसंयुतोस्य हि दशावान्तर्दशा मृ्त्युदा ॥४।। Stanza 4 .-- Death can happen in the Dasa or Antardasa of the weakest-that which occupies the 6th, 8th, 12th or that which is associated with or aspected by malefics of the following: Lords of 8th from Lagna and the Moon; planets occupying or aspecting the 8th from Lagna and

294 Prasna Marga

the Moon; Saturn; lords of the 22nd Drekkana from Lagna and the Moon; lord of the house occupied by Gulika; lords of the houses and Navamsas occupied by these factors; and Rahu.

NOTES An exhaustive list of marakas is furnished in this stanza. Wherever Lagna is mentioned, Chandra Lagua is automatically meant. A discriminating astrologer should very carefully pick out the appropfiate maraka. Of all these lords, the weakest-by occupying 6th or 8th house or subject to affliction-should be selected. The marakas can be listed thus :

1. The lord of the 8th house from Lagna. 2. The lord of the 8th house from Chandra. 3. The planets that occupy the 8th house from Lagna. 4. The planets that occupy the 8th house from Chandra. 5. The planets that aspect the 8th house from Lagna. 6. The planets that aspect the 8th house from Chandra. 7. Saturn. . The lord of 22nd Drekkana from Lagna. 9. The lord of 22nd Drekkana from Chandra. 10. The lord of the house occupied by Gulika. 11. The lords of the houses occupied by the ten lords noted above. 12. Navamsa lords of the above-mentioned planets. 13. Rahu.

Timing Death 295

With due deference to the great author's accomplish- ments, it seems to us that to select a maraka out of this formidable number -- almost all planets seem to get involved somehow-is a herculean task. A much simpler method would be to consider all the lords except those mentioned in 11 and 12 and then decide the weakest. Generally the 7th and 2nd are considered houses of death.

पापानां चेद्दशायामपहृतिरसतां चिन्तनीयोत्र मृर्त्यु- र्गोमासर्क्षेश्वराणामपि निजजनिभाद्दोषद: पाककालः । द्वित्रादीनां दशानां युगपदवसितिर्यत्र काल: स कष्टः सर्वासां वा दशानामवसितिरशुभा दोषदानां विशेषात्

Stanza 5 .- Death can take place in the sub- periods of malefics and the major periods of malefics. The Dasas and Bhuktis of the 3rd, 5th and 7th Nakshatras from Janma Nakshatra can also cause death. If 2 or more Dasas termi- nate at the same time, then that period also may be taken as time of death. Again, the end of all Dasas is not good. Especially the last period of all Dasas indicating evil has to be considered as bad.

दोषो रन्ध्राधिपत्यादिजातः सर्वदशासमः । दशासूडभवास्वेव गोमासर्क्षांघिपत्यजः ॥ ६॥

296 Prasna Marga

Stanza 6 .- The lordship of the 8th house, etc., is bad for all Dasas. The Dasas of lords of the 3rd, 5th and 7th Nakshatras from Janma Nak- shatra are bad in Vimshottari Dasa.

NOTES The lord of a Dasa owning the 8th is bad whatever be the type of Dasa applied -- Vimshottari, Ashtottari, Kala- chakra, etc. But the Dasas of the lords of the 3rd, 5th and 7th Nakshatras are bad only with reference to Vimshottari.

EVIL PERIODS

दशा नीचस्थमूढानां नियमेन मृतिप्रदा। कालचक्रदशायास्तु विशेषोथ निगद्यते॥७॥

Stanza 7 .- Dasas of the planets that are in debilitation or combustion cause death. In Kala chakra Dasa, however, there are special conside- rations which have to be noted for determining maraka periods.

NOTES This stanza is highly suggestive. A Dasa lord in combustion or in debility can cause death. But it occurs to us that in actual practice the word 'death' should not be treated very literally. In this context, "maraka" may also imply great misfortune, suffering and troubles consis. tent with the other qualities of the planets concerned. A

Kalachakra Dasa 297

planet, in order to kill, should acquire combined afflic- tions. Suppose a planet is the lord of the 8th and he is in the 12th aspected by malefics and otherwise afflicted as well. In such a case, provided the Dasa of the planet con- cerned is appropriate to the term of longevity fixed accord- ing to Yogayus, death can be predicted. Otherwise if there are only minor afflictions such as the 8th lord being combust, etc., then death may not be caused. The Dasa or Bhukti of such a planet is only capable of conferring great misfortunes.

KALACHAKRA DASA

मीनाद्वृश्चिकभं वृजेददि तदा षष्ठादथो कर्कटं सिंहाद्वा मिथुनं ततोपि हरिभं चापाच्च मेषं तथा।

कष्टाः स्यादिह तत्प्रवेशसमयः कष्टा दशा चोत्तरा चारो राश्यनतिक्रमेण शुभदो राश्यन्तरस्थोशुभः ॥८॥

Stanza 8 -The beginning of the Dasa 'movement', from Meena to Vrischika, Kanya to Karkataka, Simba to Mithuna, Mithuna to Simha and Dhanus to Mesha, will be a difficult period as also the subsequent Dasa. Whether the order is regular or otherwise, the Dasa 'movement' will be good if there is no deviation but evil if the 'movement' is at the junction of two Rasis.

298 Prasna Marga

देहो दक्षिणतारासु वाक्योक्तेष्वादिमं गृहम्। जीव: स्यादन्तिमो राशिर्विपरीतं हि वाममे ।।९ ॥

देह जीवेशयोरेकस्यासद्योगो गदप्रदः । द्वयोस्सह स चैन्मृत्युर्दशा चेदशुभा दढम्॥१०॥ Stanzas 9 and 10 .- In regard to the Dakshina (clockwise) group of stars, the first and last 'signs' indicated by the formula are Deha and Jeeva respectively, while the reverse will be the case in regard to Vama (anti-clockwise) group of stars. If malefics afflict Deha or' Jeeva, there will be sickness. If both are afflicted and the Dasa is also evil, then there will be death.

NOTES

In the above three stanzas, the referece is to Kalachakra Dasa. Here, I propose to make only a few observations on this system. For more details reference may be made to standard treatises or to my own forthcoming book Kalachakra Dasa. The 27 constellations have been divided into two groups -- the Dakshina or the Savya group where the reckon- ing is clockwise and the Vama or the Apasavya group where the reckoning is anti clockwise; the former group consisting of five triads of stars and the latter four triads. For those born, say in the first pada of Aswini, Punarvasu or Hasta, the Dasas run in the order of Mesha-Kuja, Vrishabha- Sukra, etc., upto Dhanur-Guru. For those born in the

Niryana Saturn 299

2nd pada of the same stars, the succession of Dasas would be in the order of Makara-Sani, Kumbha-Sani, Meena- Guru, Vrischika-Kuja, Thula-Sukra, Kanya-Budha, Kataka-Chandra, Simha-Ravi and Mithuna-Budha. Here it will be seen that the movement or 'jump' of the Dasa is from Meena to Vrischika, Kanya to Kataka and also Simha to Mithuna, and hence, deviating. The junc- tions of the Dasas mentioned above would be harmful. The three important movements indicative of extremely bad results are simhavalokana (leap from Meena to Vrischika) or mandukagamana (leap from Kanya to Kataka) and prishtathogamana (Simha to Mithuna). These stanzas will prove useful to those who are familiar with the Kalachakra system of directing.

NIRYANA SATURN

परागपर्ययेष्वार्केरल्पमध्यचिरायुषाम्। मरणं निर्दिशेन्नृणां चतुर्थेपि चिरायुषाम्॥११। Stanza 11 .- In regard to the different terms of longevity-short, medium, full and unlimited- death takes place respectively during the 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th round of Saturn's revolution.

NOTES After deciding the term of longevity and the likely Dasa and Bhukti of death, the author enables us in this and subsequent stanzas, to locate the time of death -- year, month and even the day-by considering the transit move- ments of Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon. The

300 Prasna Marga

transit of Saturn helps to locate the event within 2 years; that of Jupiter within one year, and that of the Sun within a month. The Moon's transit helps to find out even the day of death. The principles given here should not be applied verbatim. The astrologer's judgment power should help him to adapt these various rules to suit individual horo- scopes. These transiting planets go by the special names of Niryana Sani, Niryana Guru, Niryana Ravi and Niryana Chandra. There is always a certain correlation between the time of death as indicated either by Yoga or by Dasa and the transit movements of planets -- principally Saturn. The period of Saturn's revolution is 30 years. If Alpayu or short life is indicated, then death generally takes place during the first round of Saturn's transit, i.e,, before Saturn completes one cycle with reference to his own radical position or the radical position of the Moon or Mandi, etc. If the term of life indicated in the horoscope is medium, then death can happen duting the second term of Saturn's cycle. When the native has Purnayu or long life, death can happen during the third revolution. When one has 'unlimited' longevity-over 100 years-death generally takes place during the fourth revolution of Saturn. These are only general principles and they have to be suitably adapted to individual cases in the light of a number of other astrological factors.

मान्दित्रिकोणगे मन्दे मरणं रात्रिजन्मनाम्। दिनमेहर्भुवामस्तत्रिकोणस्थेस्य भांशयोः ॥१२॥।

Niryana Saturn 301

Stanza 12 .- According as birth is during the day or night, death takes place when Saturn transits the sign held by Mandi or the trinal places from it, or the 7th from Mandi or its trinal places.

NOTES If the birth is during the day, then death will happen when Saturn passes through the sign occupied by Mandi or the 5th or 9th from it. When birth is during the night, then Saturn's passing through the 7th, 11th or 3rd from Mandi should be taken, It will be seen that the 11th and 3rd from Mandi happen to be trinal signs from the 7th. Transit Saturn with reference to death is known by the technical term Niryana Sani, and the Rasi transited as Niryana Rasi.

मन्दरन्ध्रेशयोरंशराश्योवार्कौ त्रिकोणगे। अकोरूढगृहस्यार्थरिःफयोर्वा त्रिकोणगे ॥१३।

द्वाविंशत्र्यंशपो यस्मिन् भवने जन्मनि स्थितः । तत्त्रिकोणगते वार्कौ निर्दिष्टं मरणं नृणाम् ॥१४।। Stanzas 13 and 14 .-- The Rasis and Navamsa Rasis occupied by Saturn and the lord of the 8th and the Sun at birth; the trines from there; the 2nd and 12th from the Sun and their trines; the sign occupied by the lord of the 22nd Drekkana and its trines are all Niryana Rasis for Saturn.

302 Prasna Marga

NOTES In stanzas 13 and 14 are given the signs or Rasis tran- siting which, Saturn can cause death, either in the Ist, 2nd, 3rd or 4th round according to the term of longevity vouched for the horoscope. Whenever a Rasi is mentioned, the Navamsa Rasi is automatically implied. Thus we can catalogue the Nıryana Rasis thus: (1) Mandi's sign and its trines, (2) Mandi's Navamsa and its trines, (3) the 7th from Mandi and its trikonas, (4) the 7th from Mandi (in Navamsa) and its trines, (5) Saturn's Rasi and its trines, (6) Saturn's Navamsa and its trines, (7) sign occupied by the 8th lord and its trines, (8) the Navamsa held by the 8th lord and its trines, (9) the 2nd from the Sun and its trines, (10) the 12th ,from the Sun and its trines. (11) the sign occupied by the lord of the 22nd Drekkana and its trines. In this way, we have 33 Rasis.

NIRYANA JUPITER

लग्नत्र्यंशेधाक्रान्तराशेर्जीवे त्रिकोणगे। कालहोरेश्वराक्रान्तराशेर्वा मरणं नृणाम् ।१५।। Stanza 15 .- Death can happen when Jupiter transits the Rasis occupied by the lords of the 22nd Drekkana and Kala hora or their trines.

यो राशिः सूर्यजाक्रान्तस्तद्वनस्य व्ययस्य वा। बृहस्पतिस्त्िकोणस्थो मरणाय भवेन्नृणाम् ॥१६।।

Niryana Jupiter 303

Stanza 16 .-- Jupiter's transit in the 2nd and 12th from the Rasi, occupied by Saturn or its trines, can bring about death.

देहजीवेशयोर्योगराशिगोपि बृहस्पतिः । पापग्रहाश्र तत्रस्था नृणां मरणदायिन: ।।१७।। Stanza 17 .- Death can also happen when Jupiter transits the Rasi arrived at by the addition of the longitudes of the lords of Lagna and the 8th, provided other malefics also pass through the same sign simultaneously.

राशेर्मन्दाधिरूढस्य वृतीयायात्मजारिषु । यत्र खदर्शनं न्यूनं तत्नस्थो मृतिदो गुरुः ॥१८॥ Stanza 18 .- Note in the birth chart which out of the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 11th from Saturn receives the least aspect of Jupiter. When this sign is transited by Jupiter death may occur.

NOTES

Stanzas 15 to 18 deal with Jupiter's Niryana Rasis, i.e. the signs, when transiting which Jupiter becomes capable of causing death. According to stanza 17, Jupiter's transit of the Rasi resulting from adding the sphutas of the lords of the Lagna and 8th can cause death only when other malefics afflict the sign.

304 Prasna Marga

According to another view this stanza can be translated thus: Increase Saturn's longitude by adding 2, 4, 5 and 10 signs. Of the resulting Rasis, that which receives the minimum of Jupiter's aspect becomes Niryana Rasi for Jupiter.

NIRYANA SUN

अष्टमेशाश्रितं राशिमावहत्यहिमत्विषि। जन्मतारं विलग्नस्थतारकां वा मृतिर्भवेत् ॥१९।। Stanza 19 .-- When the Sun transits the sign occupied by the lord of the 8th or Janma Nakshatra or the Nakshatra of Janma Lagna, death can take place.

आत्मार्कांशकभत्रिकोणसहिते सूर्ये चरस्थः स चे- द्यद्यर्कः स्थिरभेष्टमेशने शर्क ोणस्िते लग्नेशस्थनवांशराशिसहिते तस्यं त्रिकोणेथवा सूर्ये मृत्युमुशन्ति यद्यभयगः सोयं भवेजन्मनि ॥ इति॥ ॥२० ॥ Stanza 20 .- Death can occur when the Sun transits his own Dwadasamsa Rasi and its trines ; the Rasi occupied by the lord of the Navamsa the 8th lord is in, and its trines; or the Navamsa Rasi of lord of Lagna and its trines according

Niryana Moon 305

as the Sun is in a movable, fixed or common sign respectively in the birth horoscope.

NOTES When the Sun transits (1) the sign occupied by the lord of 8th; (2) the birth asterism; (3) the asterism of Lagna; (4) his own Dwadasamsa Rasi and its trikonas if he is in a movable sign in the birth chart ; (5) the Rasi occupied by the lord of the Navamsa held by the lord of the 8th, if the Sun is in a fixed sign at birth; (6) the Navamsa Rasi occupied by lord of Lagna, if the Sun is in a common sign; and (7) the trines from all the other six places, he becomes Niryana Ravi capable of causing death.

NIRYANA MOON

सूर्याश्रिवर्क्षगे चन्द्रे रन्ध्रेसाश्रितवेश्मनः। तरिकोणोपगते वेन्दौ राहारूढोडनस्तथा ।।२१।। रन्ध्रेशाविष्ठितोडौ ना निर्दिष्टं मरणं नृणाम् ।।२२।। धनेशाभरिवराशोर्वा तस सप्तमभस्य वा। त्रिकोणस्ये घनेशांसराशिगे वा विधौ मृतिः ।।२३।। Stanzas 21 to 23 .- Death happens when the Moon transits the signs occupied by the Sun and lords of the 2nd and 8th; 7th from the sign oecupied by, or the Navamsa Rasi of the 2nd

20

306 Prasna Marga

lord; the Nakshatras occupied by the lord of the 8th or Rahu; and the trines from all these places.

NOTES The Moon becomes Niryana Chandra in (1) the sign occupied by the Sun, (2) in the sign occupied by the lord of 8, (3) the constellation held by Rahu, (4) the constella- tion occupied by the lord of 8, (5) the sign occupied by lord of the 2nd, (6) the seventh from the sign occupied by the lord of the 2nd, (7) the Navamsa Rasi of the 2nd lord and (8) the trines from all these places.

निजजन्मनि यस्मिन् मे गुळिकस्तन्रगे विधौ। रोगारम्मस्तदस्तस्थे मरणं दढमादिशेद् ।।२४।।

Stanza 24 .- When the Moon transits the Rasi occupied by Gulika sickness begins. The person's death may take place when the Moon passes through the 7th therefrom.

NOTES Here too the trines may be included. When the Moon transits the sign occupied by Gulika or the trines from it, sickness sets in and when the Moon transits the 7th from Gulika or trines from it. death may ensue.

PRAMANA GULIKA

प्रमाणगुळिकानीतिस्तद्वशान्मन्दजीवयो:। सर्येन्द्रोम स्पितिमृत्यी आाखोकताय निगयते ।।२५।।

Pramana Gulika 307

Stanza 25 .- We shall now consider the Pramana Gulika and from it fix the places of Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon at the time of death. जातस्याहि स षड्गृहो गतनिशा मान्दि: प्रमाणाह्वयो रात्रौ प्राग्दिनमान्दिरेव न परं तद्राशिनाथालये। मान्दोसुष्य नवांशपाश्रितगृहे मुत्युप्रदायी गुरु- भानुर्द्वादशभागपाश्रितगृहे त्रिंशांशपर्क्षे शजी ।।२६।। Stanza 26 .- If birth is during daytime, then the position of Gulika the previous night increased by 180' gives Pramana Gulika. If birth is in the night, the position of Gulika during the daytime is itself Pramana Gulika. When Saturn passes through the Rasi occupied by Pramana Gulika, when Jupiter passes through the Rasi occupied by Pramana Gulika Navamsadhipa, when the Sun passes through the Rasi occupied by Pramana Gulika Dwadasamsadhipa and when the Moon passes through the Rasi occupied dy Pramana Gulika Thrimsamsadhipa, death takes place. NOTES For a day birth, add 180° to the position of Gulika the previous night, Pramana Gulika is obtained. For a night birth, the position of Gulika during the day is itself Pramana Gulika. Death happens when Saturn transits this Rasi, when Jupiter passes through the Rasi occupied by the lord of the Navamsa held by the lord of Pramana

308 Prasna Marga

Gulika Rasi (Pramana Gulika Navamsadhipa), when the Sun transits the Rasi occupied by the lord of the Dwada- samsa in which the lord of Pramana Gulika is placed (Pramana Gulika Dwadasamsadhipa) and when the Moon moves through the Rasi occupied by the lord of Thrim- samsa held by the lord of Pramana Gulika Rasi (Pramana Gulika Thrimsamsadhipa).

Illustration :- Let us take the following example :

Lagna Kethu Pramana Gulika 24? Jupiter

Mars

RASI

Sun, Mercury, Venus Saturn

Moon Rahu

Mercury Moon; Saturn Rahu

Sun

AMSA Lagna, Mars Venus, Pramana Gulika

Jupiter Kethu

Death as read by the Planets 309

Pramana Gulika occupies 24° of Taurus. Applying the above rules :

(a) Death can happen when Saturn passes through Taurus.

(b) Lord of Pramana Gulika Rasi is Venus. He occupies Leo Navamsa. Lord of Leo viz., the Sun is in Capricorn. Therefore death can happen when Jupiter transits Capricorn.

(c) Lord of Pramana Gulika, viz., Venus occupies Libra Dwadasamsa. The lord of this. viz., Venus is in Capricorn. Therefore death happens when the Sun transits Capricorn.

(d) Lord of Pramana Gulika Rasi, viz., Venus occupies the Navamsa of Saturn. And Saturn is in Leo. Death can happen when the Moon transits Leo.

Summing up, death is possible (during the maraka period) when Saturn transits Taurus, Jupiter transits Capricorn, the Sun transits Capricorn and the Moon transits Leo.

DEATH AS READ BY THE PLANETS

मन्दजीवार्केचन्द्राणां प्रोक्तेष्वेतेषु राशिषु। मृतिदा स्वाष्टवर्गेषु हीनाक्षभवनस्थितिः ।।२७।। Stanza 27 .- Of the several Niryana Rasis mentioned above for Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon, that alone can be considered as the

310 Prasna Marga

Niryana Rasi, which has the least number of points in the concerned Ashtakavarga.

NOTES Work out the Ashtakavarga of Saturn, Jupiter, the Moon and the Sun separately. Mark that sign amongst the various Niryana Rasis which has the least number of points. When the planet concerned transits through this Rasi having the least number of bindus, death takes place. It will be seen that for Saturn nearly 37 Rasis have been assigned, for Jupiter 17, for the Sun 12 and for the Moon 21. The au:hor suggests here a method for deciding the correct Rasis for Niryana Saturn, Niryana Jupiter, Niryana Sun and Niryana Moon by a process of elimina- tion. I am not at all able to conceive why so many Rasis have been allotted to Saturn, Jupiter, etc., to cause death by their transits. In actual practice it may be difficult to consider all these factors.

मन्देनास्य गाणरन्ध्रतपनांशेशैर्युतेर्के पृथग्राशि- र्योस्य तदस्तभस्यं यदि वा प्राप्ते त्रिकोणं क्रमात्। चन्द्रे तीक्ष्णकरे गुरौ रविसुते योगांशभस्थेषु वा मृत्युस्तेष्वथ तैर्निजासगुणितैः संवाद ईक्ष्यस्विह ॥२८।। Stanza 28 .- The Niryana Rasis for the Moon, the Sun, Jupiter and Saturn are respectively the Yogasphuta Rasis of the Sun and Saturn, of the Sun and the lord of the Drekkana occupied by Saturn, of the Sun and the lord of the Navamsa

Death as read by the Planets 311

occupied by Saturn, and the Sun and the lord of the Dwadasamsa occupied by Saturn. Their respective Navamsas and the 7th from the respec- tive Yogasphutas and Rasis and the trines of all these places.

NOTES In this stanza another method for the determination of the Niryana Rasis of Chandra (the Moon), Ravi (the Sun), Guru (Jupiter) and Sani (Saturn) are given. The elements required for calculating these Niryana Rasis are the longi- tudes (sphutas) of the Sun, Saturn and lords of the Drekkana, Navamsa and Dwadasamsa occupied by Saturn. By Yogasphuta Rasi is meant the sign arrived at by adding the longitudes of two or more planets, bhavas or planets and bhavas.

Illustration :- I. The Sun's longitude is Kumbha 1° 12', i.e., 311° 12',. Saturn's longitude is Mithuna 3° 20', i.e., 63° 20'.

Moon 18.29 Rahu 6.9 Lagna 13.9 Saturn 3.20

Sun 1.12 Mercury 8.27 Jupiter 21.38

Veaus 20.33 Mars 1 Kethu

312 Prasna Marga

Therefore, Yogasphuta Rasi of Sun and Saturn =301° 12'+63° 20' =4° 32' Mesha (expunging 360°)

II. The lord of Drekkana occupied by Saturn is Mercury. His longitude is 308° 27'. Yogasphuta Rasi of the Sun and lord of Drekkana held by Saturn is 301° 12' + 308° 27' =609°-39'. Expunging 360°, we get 249° 39' or Dhanus 9° 39'.

IlI. The lord of Navamsa occupied by Saturn is Venus and his longitude is Dhanus 20° 33' or 260° 33'.

... Yogasphuta Rasi of the Sun and lord of Navamsa occupied by Saturn is 301° 12'+ 260° 33'=201° 45' (expunging 360°) or Thula 21° 45'.

IV. The lord of the Dwadasamsa held by Saturn is Moon and his longitude is Mesha 18° 29' or 18° 29'.

.. Yogasphuta Rasi of the Sun and the lord of the Dwadasamsa held by Saturn is 301° 12' + 18° 29' = 319° 41' or Kumbha 19° 41 '.

J. Chandra Niryana Rasis in this horoscope are :- (a) Yogasphuta Rasi of Sun and Saturn- Mesha 4° 32'. (b) The Navamsa Rasi of (a)-Sımha, (c) The 7th from (a)-Thula and (d) The trines from above-Simha, Dhanus, Dhanus, Mesha Kumbha and Mithuna.

Death as read by the Planets 313

II. Ravi Niryana Rasis are :- (a) Yogasphuta Rasi of San and the lord of the Drekkana occupied by Saturn-Dhanus 9° 39'. (b) The Navamsa Rasi of (a) -Mithuna. (c) The 7th from (a)-Mithuna. (d) Trines from above-Mesha, Simha, Thula, Kumbha, Thula, Kumbha.

III. Guru Niryana Rasis are :- (a) Yogasphuta Rasi of Sun and the lord of the Navamsa occupied by Saturn-Thula 21° 45'. (b) The Navamsa of (a)-Mesha. (c) The 7th from (a)-Thula. (d) Trines from above-Mithuna, Kumbha, Simha, Dhanus, Mithuna, Kumbha.

IV. Sani Niryana Rasis are :-- (a) Yogasphutn Rasi of the Sun and the lord of the Dwadasamsa held by Sani-Kumbha 19° 41'. (b) The Navamsa of (a)-Meena. (c) The 7th from (a)-Simha. (d) Trines from above-Thula, Mithuna, Kataka, Vrischika. Mesha, Dhanus.

With due deference to the author I feel that it is enough to consider Yogasphuta Rasis and Navamsas of the Sun, Moon, Jupiter and Saturn and ignore items given c and d above.

द्वेधा न्यस्य विहङ्गमस्फुटमजाद्याताशसंख्याहदते तत्रैकत कलीकृतादितरतस्तत्रांशकस्योद्यतः ।

314 Prasna Marga

निघ्नाद्यातकलामिरानखट्ता लिप्ताः समायोजये- ततत्रायतगृहे भवेत्स मरणे शुद्धेथवा चक्रतः ॥।२९।।

Stanza 29 .- Multiply the sphuta or longitude of a planet (devoid of the degrees passed in the current Navamsa) by the number of expired Navamsas reckoned from Aries: Call this x: convert the degrees passed in the current Navamsa into minutes and multiply it by the Navamsas from Aries. Divide the product by 200. Add the quotient (which will be in minutes) to x and the result is the Niryana Rasi of the planet.

NOTES

The stanza is a bit confusing. Each planet is said to have its own Niryana Rasi or death-dealing sign. When the said planet transits its own Niryana Rasi, death may happen. Here one is enabled to find out the death-dealing Rasi of all the planets.

Illustration :- Suppose, for instance, Saturn's longi- tude is Cancer 25° 32', i.e., 3s 25° 32'. This means that Saturn has covered 34 Navamsas (i.e., 3s 23° 20') from Aries and has passed 2° 12' in the 35th Navamsa (8th in Cancer).

Ist step :- Multiplying the longitude of Saturn (less the degrees in its current Navamsa), viz., 3s 23° 20' by 34, we get 128s 13° 20". Expunging multiples of 12, the result is 8s 13° 20'.

Death as read by the Planets 315

2nd step :- Converting the degrees passed in the current Navamsa, viz., 2° 12' into minutes we get 132', Multiplyiug this by 34 and dividing the product by 200 the results is

132×34 4488' = 22' 26" (seconds ignored) 200 200

3rd step :- Adding this to x we get : x 8s 13° 20' 22'

8s 13° 42'

Niryana Sani's place is 13° 42' in Sagittarius. Saturn's transit of this position may cause death, provided of course other appropriate factors are also present.

According to another view simply multiply the sphuta or longitude of a planet by the number of expired Navamsas. The resulting figure becomes the planet's Niryana Rasi. According to this view 3s 25° 32' =115° 32'x 34=318° 8'=Saturn's Niryana Rasi =318° 8'=Aquarius 18° 8'.

In our humble opinion, the latter view appears to be more acceptable.

आत्मारूढादर्थरिप्फत्रिकोणेप्वत्यल्पाक्षे मन्दिरे स्वाष्टवर्गे। न्यूनालोके चाखिलानां ग्रहाणां सश्चारः स्पान्मृत्युदोनर्थदो वा ॥३०॥

316 Prasna Marga

Stanza 30 .- Considering the 2nd, 5th, 9th and 12th Rasis (from a planet's position in the horoscope), find out the Rasi having the least number of 'bindus' in the Ashtakavarga of the planet concerned and the Rasi least aspected by the respective lord. When planets pass through such Rasis, either there will be death or at least some calamities.

NOTES

Suppose in a horoscope, the Sun is in Cancer. Then consider Leo (2nd), Scorpio (5th), Pisces (9th) and Gemini (12th). Find out in the Sun's Ashtakavarga, the Rasi, out of these four, which has the least number of bindus and also the Rasi out of these four, that receive the least aspect from the Sun. Planets when transiting such Rasis cause death or calamity. Other planets should also be similarly considered.

DEATH-DEALING ASCENDANT

विलग्नादष्टमो राशिरष्टमेशाश्रितम यः । लग्नेशांशकराश्योर्यो रन्ध्रराशी इतीह ये॥३१॥

चत्वारस्तत्त्रिकोणेषु लग्नगेन्यतमे मृतिः । यद्वा लग्नांशकर्क्षस्य लग्नेशभवतस्य वा ।।३२।। मरणं निर्दिशेन्तृणां चतुर्थभवनोदये।। इति ।।३३।।

Death-Dealing Ascendant 317

द्वित्रिसंवादत: स्पष्टम।देश्यमिति यत्र मे। लक्षणानि बहून्यत्र वाच्या मान्दादय: स्फुटम् ॥३४॥ परस्परं च संवादं मन्दादीनां निरीक्ष्य च। पश्चतासमये तेषां सम्यद्निश्रिनुयात्स्यितिम् ॥३५।। Stanzas 31 to 35 .- The 8th from Lagna, the sign occupied by the lord of the 8th, the 8th from the sign occupied by the lord of Lagna, the 8th from the Navamsa Rasi of lord of Lagna, the trines from all these four, the 4th from Navamsa Rasi of Lagna and the 4th from the sign occupied by the lord of Lagna are all death-dealing signs. Whether a sign has two, three or more indications for causing death and whether it has the aspect of transit Saturn, etc., should all be considered. Only after careful reconciliation and adjustment the correct death-dealing sign should be found out.

NOTES Hitherto, the author has enabled us to calculate the year, month and day of death. In these stanzas, he deals with the method of finding out Marana Lagna, or the ascendant in which one would die. After finding the day of death, the time should be found out according to the principles dealt with in stanzas 31 to 35. The exact sign that would be rising at the time of death should be decided by a process of elimination, taking into account that Rasi, which gets a larger percentage of 'indications' and which

318 Prasna Marga

also receives the aspect of Saturn and of course, the other planets too. Taking again the example horoscope given above, we find the Niryana Rasi or Marana Rasi as follows :- (a) 8th from Lagna-Dhanus, (b) the sign in which the lord of the 8th is placed- Kumbha, (c) the 8th from the sign occupied by lord of Lagna -Cancer, (d) the 8th from Navamsa Rasi of lord of Lagna -- Vrishabha, (e) the trines from the above : Mesha, Simha. Thula -Mithuna, Vrischika. Meena, Kanya, Makara, (f) the 4th from the Navamsa Rasi of Lagna- Cancer,

(g) the 4th from the sign occupied by lord of Lagna -- Meena.

On 12th March 1937 of the sign given above Mithuna, Thula and Makara were receiving the aspect of Saturn. Mithuna in the birth horoscope is also occupied by Saturn. The native died in Mithuna Lagna.

TIME OF DEATH AS PER PRASNA

प्रश्नेनापि च वक्तव्यो मृतिकालस्ततो मृतौ। मन्दार्यार्कविधुस्थानलग्नादिकमथोच्यते ॥३६॥। Stanza 36 .- The time of death should be ascertained on the basis of Prasna. Hence the

Time of Death as per Prasna 319

positions of Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun, the Moon and Lagna as indicated by Prasna will be explained. NOTES Hitherto the principles dealt with the method of find- ing the time of death with reference to the birth chart and on the basis of the Niryana Sani, etc., as applied to birth chart. Now, the method of ascertaining the period of death with reference to the time of query will be given.

मान्यंशराशिगो मन्दो गुरुर्लग्नाशराशिग:। आरूढराशिगो भातुर्मान्दिराशिगतः शशी ।३७। एते मृतिप्रदा: प्रष्टः संवादश्चेत्परस्परम् ।३८।। Stanzas 37 and 38 .- Saturn in Gulika Navamsa Rasi, Jupiter in Lagna Navamsa Rasi, the Sun in Arudha Rasi and the Moon in Gulika Rasi indicate the death of the querist. Adjust and reconcile the positions of these Rasis.

दूतवाक्यान्त्यवर्णोक्तराशिगेत्यन्तदोषदे।

Stanza 39 .- That planet which is most un- favourable amongst Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun and the Moon in the Rasi indicated by the last letter of the query of the messenger (Prasna Akshara) or in Prasna Lagna indicates death.

320 Prasna Marga

NOTES The unfavourable nature of these planets should be judged by their situation in Arishta-bhavas or by their association with or aspect of malefics, or by their debilitation, etc.

द्रामिळा द्वादशाच: स्युर्वर्गाद्यन्ता यरान्विताः। येषादिषु क्रमाद्योज्या: शेषा मेपादिषट्खपि॥४०।। Stanza 40 .- The letters a (अ), aa (आ), e (इ), ee (f), u (3), 00 (5), ru (), roo (), ae (T), aai (). o (à), ou (an) represents respectively the 12 signs from Aries Similarly the letters ka (₹), gna (₹), cha (), jna (I), ta (₹), nna (I), tha (đ), na (5), pa (V), ma (H), ya (9), and ra (T) signify the 12 signs of the zodiac. The remaining la (~), va (ª), lla (đ), lla (đ), ra (T), na (a) cannote the six signs from Aries.

NOTES The author gives a method for determining the Lagna on the basis of the name. In Tamil and in the old Dravidian language of Malabar, it appears there were only thirty letters. Hence only these are given. It occurs to me that the method given in Prasna Tantra (see my English transla- tion) could be used.

लग्नाशराशिगे चन्द्रे प्रष्ट रुग्वर्द्धनं यदि। स्ांशराशिगते मोहो मृतिन्मोद्यंशराशिगे ।।४१।।

Time of Death as per Prasna 321

Stanza 41 .- If the sickness shows signs of increase when the Moon is in the Navamsa Rasi of Lagna, then the period of uncosciousness and death of the querist will correspond to the transit of the Moon through his own Navamsa Rasi and Gulika Navamsa Rasi respectively.

NOTES Supposing at the time of a query relating to a person whose illness is growing worse, the Navamsa Lagna is Leo, the Moon occupies Leo in Rasi and Libra in Navamsa and Gulika is in Meena in Navamsa, then he will become un- conscious when the Moon by transit passes through Libra (Navamsa-Rasi of the Moon) and he may die when the Moon transits Meena (Navamsa Rasi of Gulika). What is given in stanza 41 can be applied only when the sick man shows signs of increase of sickness.

चन्द्रमान्धंशकौ युक्तौ यदि तद्राशिगे विधौ। मोहः सत्यर्कमाद्यंशयोगे तत्र गते मृतिः ।।४२।। Stanza 42 .- If the Moon and Mandi are in the same Navamsa, then the querist becomes unconscious when the Moon transits the sign corresponding to this Navamsa. If the Sun and Mandi occupy the same Navamsa, he will die when the Moon transits the Rasi corresponding to the said Navamsa. 21

.322 Prasna Marga

NOTES

Supposing the Moon and Mandi are in association in Leo Navamsa and the Moon cccupies Mesha Rasi, then the querist becomes unconscious when the Moon transits Leo (the Rasi corresponding to the Navamsa occupied by the Moon and Mandi). Suppose again at the time of query the Sun and Mandi are in Virgo Navamsa and the Moon in Mesha Rasi. Then the querist's death can be anticipated when the Moon transits Virgo (the Rasi corres- ponding to the Navamsa occupied by the Sun and Mandi).

लग्नेन्दू मानदानाभ्यामित्यानीतस्फुढत्रये।

यमकण्टकमायोज्य योडुस्तस्ा च पश्चता ॥४३।।

Stanza 43 .- When the Moon transits through the asterism represented by the sum of the sphutas of Prana, Deha, Mrityu and Yamakantaka, death takes place.

NOTES Suppose the total of Prana, Deha and Mrityu. sphutas is 215° and the longitude of Yamakantaka is 106°. The sum of these would be 321°. The asterism corresponding to this longitude is the 25th, i.e., Poorvabhadra. The Moon's transit of this is dangerous.

गुळिकोडत्रिकोणस्थस्तथा रन्ध्रेशराशिगः। मृत्युदोर्कस्तथा मान्दिनक्षत्रं च मुनिग्रदम्।।४४।।

Time of Death as per Prasna 323

Stanza 44 .- When the Sun is in the Nakshatra occupied by Gulika, or its trines or in the Rasi occupied by the lord of the 8th from Arudha, when the Moon occupies the Nakshatra of Mandi, death takes place. NOTES Here three combinations are given. (1) The Sun should be in the constellation occupied by Gulika, or the trinal constellation therefrom. (2) The Sun should be in the sign occupied by the lord of the 8th from Arudha. (3) The Moon should be disposed in the Nakshatra of Gulika.

त्रिस्फुटस्थोडतो यावत्त्रिकोणसुरगोडनः । तावद्वत्सरमास।हर्नाडिकांते भवेन्मृतिः।।४५।।

लग्नेशस्य तदंशेशे बन्धुमित्राहिताघ्यरौ। स्वभप्रतीपतो मान्दिर्दिनरात्रौ मृतिप्रदः ॥४६।। Stanzas 45 and 46 .- Count from Thrisphuta Nakshatra to the nearest of either Aslesha, Jyeshta or Revati. The number so got indicates the number of years, months or days, the questioner will live from the time of Prasna according as the lords of Lagna and Navamsa Lagna are intimate friends or mere friends, or neutral, or enemies. .

324 Prasna Marga

Death occurs in the night or during the day accord- ing as Mandi occupies a diurnal or nocturnal sign.

NOTES If the lords are bitter enemies, then say so many ghatikas should pass. If the lords happen to be same, then the querist will not die but recover. This view is not accepted by all.

एष्यनाडीसमाहर्मासाब्दान्ते लग्नचन्द्रयोः।

बलीयसो नवांशस्य दोषाधिक्याल्पतावशात्।।४७।। Stanza 47 .- Note the humber of unexpired ghatikas in the Navamsa of the stronger between Lagna and the Moon. Depending upon the intensity or otherwise of the affliction, the number of days, months, years, etc., corresponding to the number of the unexpired ghatis, should be predicted. NOTES If the Prasna is very unfavourable, say he may die in the number of days so calculated. If it is neither favour- able nor unfavourable, put the number as so many months. If the Prasna is favourable, take the number as years.

लम्नाशैष्यविनाडीमि: ममाहर्मासवत्सरैः। सुतिर्लेग्नपते: शत्रौ समे बन्धौ तदंझपे।।४८।।

Time of Death as per Prasna 325

Stanza 48 .- Find the number of vighatikas unexpired in Lagna Navamsa. According as lords of Lagna and Navamsa Lagna are friends, neutrals or enemies, death takes place in so many years, months or days.

मृत्युप्रदनवांशैष्यविनाड्यश्च मृतिप्रदाः । प्रोक्तवल्लग्नपारातिसमबन्धौ तदंशपे ।।४९।।

Stanza 49 .- Similar results can be predicted by considering the unexpired portion of the Navamsas of the death-inflicting planets.

NOTES Count the unexpired portion of the Navamsa of the Mrityupada or death-inflicting planet in vighatikas (treating the said planet as Lagna itself) and consider that number in years, months or days, according as lord of Lagna is friendly, neutral or inimical to lord of Navamsa Lagna. Death-inflicting planets are those that own or occupy the 8th house or that which is the most unfavourable amongst Gulika, Mrityu Kala or Thrisphuta.

क्ररा हिमृत्युगुळिकादिषु यावति स्या- ल्लग्नांशकात्प्रभृति कष्टतमो नवांशे। तत्कष्टभाववशतः खलु तावतीषु बाच्यो गतासु दिनमाससमासु मृत्यु:॥५०।।

326 Prasna Marga

Stanza 50 .- The number of Navamsas from Lagna Navamsa to the Navamsa occupied by the most evil planet amongst Mandi, etc., represents the number of days, months or years, according to the intensity of affliction, within which the querist's death may take place.

NOTES Count the number of Navamsas from Lagna Navamsa to the Navamsa of the most unfavourable (by position or otherwise) amongst the Sun, Mars, Saturn, Rahu, Gulika, Thrisphuta and Mrityu. Note this number. If that planet is very unfavourable, treat it as the number of days; if he is less unfavourable, treat this as number of months; if he is least unfavourable, treat it as number of years. Then predict that the questioner will live for such length of time as is in accordance with the evil nature of the planet mentioned.

कष्टोऽहिमृत्युगुळिकादिषु यत्र राशौ तत्कालजं निधनदं यदि वा निमित्तम्।

तस्य त्रिकोणजुषि कष्टतमे तदानीं चन्द्रार्कजीवरविजेषु मृतिर्विचिन्त्या।।५१।। Stanza 51 .- Note the Rasi occupied by the most unfavourable amongst Rahu, Mrityu, Gulika, Thrisphuta, etc., and the one wherefrom any indication suggesting death is observed at the

Time of Death as per Prasna 327

time of Prasna. When the most evil amongst the planets Saturn, Jupiter, the Sun or the Moon transits these two Rasis or their trines, death may take place.

NOTES Two Rasis-one occupied by the worst malefic from among Rahu, Saturn, Mandi, Thrisphuta, etc., and the other indicated by the direction in which an omen suggest- · ing death is observed at the time of the query are consi- dered. The transit of the most afflicted amongst Saturn, Jupiter, Sun or the Moon over these signs causes death of the querist. The directions ruled by different signs have already been discussed previously.

लग्नारूढपयोद्वयोर्नलवतः प्रारभ्य यस्मिन् गृहे। नक्षत्रेथ दगाणके नु भवति प्रश्ने नवांशेपि वा।

वृक्षादेः पतनाद्यनिष्टमसुभत्प्राणप्रणाशोपि वा स्थानं वा गुळिकादिकस्य भविता तावददिनादौ मृतिः। इति ।५२।।

Stanza 52 .- The number of Rasis or Nakshatras or Drekkanas or Navamsas counted from the Rasi, Nakshatra, etc., occupied by the lord of Lagna or the lord of Arudha-whichever is stronger-to the Rasi, Nakshatra, etc., in which any unfortunate accident such as dea th or fall of

328 Prasna Marga

a tree is observed ; or to the Rasi, Naksbatra, etc., occupied by the most unfavourable amongst Gulika, Mrityu, Thrisphuta. etc., represents the number of days, months or etc., in which death takes place. NOTES The number so counted may be taken as days or months or years according to the intensity of the evil represented by the above planets. This stanza is taken from Anushtana Paddhati and requires very careful consideration. Whether days, months or years have to be considered, whether Rasis, Nakshatras, Drekkanas or Navamsas have to be looked into should be very carefully examined by the astrologer by weighing the intensity of the evil indicated. If we take Rasis, the number cannot be more than 12; if ' Nakshatras', not more than 27; if Drekkanas 36; if Navamsas 108. The Rasi indicated by the 'Dik' where the incident takes place should be taken into consideration. Some are of the opinion that, instead of the stronger of the two, Lagnadhipa or Arudhadhipa, one of these can be taken. 'Lagnarudha Ubhayadho ' is another reading. Stanzas 49 to 52 are from Anustana Paddathi.

आरूढोदययोरष्टमेष्टमेशाश्रितालये । पिण्डाष्टवर्गे हीनाक्षे राशौ वा लग्नगे मृतिः ।।५३।। Stanza 53 .- The eighth from Lagna or Arudha, the signs occupied by the lords of the 8th from Lagna and Arudha and the sign contain- ing the least number of bindus in Sarvashtaka- varga, can also be death-inflicting signs.

Planetary Positions at Death 329

क्षोकस्यास्योत्तराद्ध यत्तञ्जन्मविषयं तथा। स्भप्रतीपतो मान्दिरित्यर्द्ध च पुरोदितम् ।।५४।। Stanza 54 .- The latter half of the above stanza and stanza 46 can be applied to horoscopy also. NOTES That part of the stanza dealing with the Rasi counting the least number of bindus in Sarvashatakavarga, can also be applied to birth horoscope for determining marakas, What is stated in stanza 46 is also applicable to birth horoscopes and not merely to horary charts.

द्वादशजन्माष्टमगा: पुंसां दिननाथभौमशनिजीवाः। वित्तक्षयं प्रवासं रोगान् जनयन्ति भीतिं वा ॥५५।। Stanza 55 .-- When the Sun, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn transit the Janma Rasi, its 8th or 12th house, there will be loss of money, wanderings, sickness and fear.

PLANETARY POSITIONS AT DEATH

चन्द्रस्तु निधनं प्राप्तः सप्तमं बुधलोहितौ। द्वादशं भास्कर: षषठं भृगुपुत्रः समाश्रितः ॥५६।। वृतीयं देवमन्त्री च राहुकेतुशनैश्रराः। जन्मस्थाः प्राणसन्देहं कुर्वन्येते न संशयः ॥५७॥

330 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 56 and 57 .- The period, when transit Moon is in the 8th, Mercury and Mars in the 7th, the Sun in the 12th, Venus in the 6th, Jupiter in the 3rd and Saturn, Rahu and Ketu in the Janma Rasi itself should be considered as most fatal.

प्रथमे च चतुर्थे च सप्तमेचाष्टमे व्यये।

क्ररग्रहाः प्रदीप्यन्ते दीप्तपावकसन्निभाः ॥५८॥

Stanza 58 .- Malefic planets transiting the 1st, 4th, 7th, 8th and 12th are always indicative of fatal happenings.

NOTES

In stanzas 55 to 58, the author deals with Gochara or transits. The movements of the planets with reference to radical Moon (the sign occupied by the Moon at the time of birth) should be considered. In these stanzas, the signi- ficance of transits with reference to the occurrence of maraka or death should be noted.

चतुर्थे निधने चान्त्ये चन्द्रो नित्यमरिष्टकद्।

शुभः शशी च जन्मस्थो न स्याजन्मदिनं तथा ॥ इति

Planetary Positions at Death 331

Stanza 59 .- The periods when the Moon transits the 4th, 8th and 12th from it, have to be considered as bad. Though the Moon's transit in Janma Rasi is good, his passing through the Janma Nakshatra is not good.

इत्थं विचिन्त्य निश्चित्य ससंवादं परस्परम्।

खेचराणामवस्थानं समय: कथ्यतां मृतेः ॥६०। Stanza 60 .- In this way, predict 'death' after carefully weighing the 'pros' and 'cons' of the positions of planets.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे दशमाध्यायः ॥

एकादशाध्याय:

CAUSE OF DEATH

क्रमेण मरणं वह्िसलिलायुधजूर्तिमिः।

Stanza 1 .- Death will be due to fire or burns, drowning, weapons, high fever, an inexplicable disease, thirst or hunger according as the eighth house is occupied by the Sun, Moon, etc.

NOTES In this chapter causes that bring about death are enumerated. If the Sun is in the 8th, death will be due to fire or burns; if the Moon-drowning; if Mars-weapons; if Mercury-high fever ; if Jupiter-due to a disease that cannot be diagnosed; if Venus-thirst or pranita and jf Saturn-death will be due to starvation or inability to eat or drink. The scope of this stanza can be widened to include innumerable other causes. The Sun in the 8th may cause death by electric shock, suffocation, train and aeroplane accidents, outbreak of fire, etc. Accidental drowning or suicide, falling in a well, tank, river or sea may occur if the Moon is in the 8th. Mars, of course, can cause death by accidents, explosions, fire arms and similar happenings. 'High fever' is assigned to Mercury. Several variations of this may be thought of. All sorts of

Cause of Death 333

complications may set in rendering the nature of illness difficult to diagnose if Jupiter is the planet occupying the 8th. Similarly with regard to the other two planets, all appropriate causes must be considered.

दृष्टेष्टमे तु सूर्याधैस्तत्प्रोक्तास्थ्यादिजामयैः। मृत्युर्यद्वाथ तत्प्रोक्त्तपित्तवहनयादिसम्भवः ॥२॥ Stanza 2 .- Death will be due to the disease, affecting the appropriate organ by the excitement of one of the doshas, as indicated by the planet aspecting the 8th. NOTES If a planet aspects the 8th house, study it and see what disease it indicates and where (in which part of the body) it is found, what Dhatu it governs, and what dosha or humour it rules and then ascertain the cause of death.

अस्थि रक्तं च मज्जा त्वग्वसा शुकं च वसत्रसा । एवं हि घातवः सप्त सूर्यादीनां प्रकीर्तिताः ॥३॥ Stanza 3 .- The seven Dhatus, viz., asthi (bone), raktha (blood), majja (muscle), twak (skin), vasa (flesh), sukla (seminal fluid) and vasmasa (nervous material) are governed respec- tively by the Sun, the Moon, etc. NOTES According to this stanza, planetary allocations of the Sapta Dhatus are distributed as follows :

334 Prasna Marga

Planet Dhatu The Sun Asthi or bone The Moon Raktha or blood Mars Majja or muscle Mercury Twak or skin Jupiter Vasa or fat Venus Sukla (sperm and ovum) Saturn Vasmasa (nervous material)

पितं वातकफौ पित्तं बातपित्तकफा: कफः । कफवातौ च वातश्र सूर्यादीनां प्रकीर्तिताः ।।४।। Stanza 4 .- The tridoshas are ruled by the seven planets thus: The Sun-pitta; the Moon- vata and kapha; Mars-pitta; Mercury-vata, pitta and kapha; Jupiter-kapha; Venus-kapha and vata; and Saturn-vata.

कालाङ्रेष्वष्टमो राशिर्ग्रहो वाष्टमवीक्षकः। जन्मकाले स्थितो यत्र तत्नाङ्गे तद्गदोन्भवः ॥५॥ Stanza 5 .- The 8th Rasi and the Rasi occu- pied by the lord aspecting the 8th determine the diseases and the part of the body affected.

NOTES

In Brihat Jataka, we have the stanza 'Kalangani'- allotting different parts of the body to different Rasis. The allocation of organs should be considered on this basis.

Cause of Death 335

ग्रह्योगेक्षणाभावे निघने निघनाधिपः। द्वाविंशत्यंशपो वापि सगुणैर्मरणप्रदः ॥६॥। धातवश्र त्रिदोषाश्च प्रोक्ता वहयादयोगुणाः।।७।। Stanzas 6 and 7 .- If the 8th house is not occupied or aspected by any planet, then death will be due to the dathu, tridosha, etc., indicated by the lord of the 8th or the lord of the 22nd drekkana. NOTES The stanza is clear. If there is no planet in the 8th or no planet aspects the 8th, consider the lord of the 8th or the lord of the 22nd drekkana. Death will come by the diseases caused by the humour or dhatu ruled by such a lord.

मन्दे सूर्यादिसंयुक्ते तेषां योस्थययादिरीरितः । रोगेण तत्र जातेन पुरुषस्य भवेन्मृतिः ।।८ |। Stanza 8 .- If Saturn is associated with the Sun and other planets, they determine the nature of disease causing death.

भानुना वासृजा दृष्टे दक्षांगेरुरसृग्भवः । अतिसारो निशाभर्त्रा वेपयुश्चन्द्रसूनुना।।९।। गुरुणाश्वयथुः पादे देक्षिणाङ्गे च वेदना। अयः शोफम शुक्रेण कासश्वासादि नेक्षिते ॥१०॥

336 Prasna Marga

राहुणा सन्धिसादादि मान्दिनोन्मादसंभवः। मूर्च्छा द्राघीयसी मन्दे थमकण्टकबीक्षिते॥११।।

अरुरर्द्वप्रहद्दारेण समासने सुनिर्गमे। कालदष्टे रवेः पुत्रे नृणां सश्चरतां मृतिः ॥१२।। Stanzas 9 to 12 .- Death will be owing to boils or eruptions due to blood impurities on the right side of the body, diarrhoea, shivering, swellings in the legs, and pain in the right side of the body, consumption and cough, difficulties in breathing, pains in the joints, unmada or madness, swooning, sores, no disease respectively according as Saturn is aspected by the Sun, Mars, Moon, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, no planet,'Rahu, Mandi, Yamakantaka and Ardhaprahara respectively. If Saturn is aspected by Kala, death occurs while travelling.

NOTES In these stanzas, the nature of disease causing death is discussed. Since Saturn is the Ayushkaraka, the disease will be according to the planet aspecting Saturn. If the Sun or Mars is the aspecting planet, the cause of death will be due to aru (nlcers, boils, etc. skin eruptions due to blood impurities, etc.). We may also include blood- poisoning. The range of diseases should be widened keeping in view the primary indications. It is the left side

Cause of Death 337

of the body that will be affected by these troubles. If the Moon aspects Saturn, athisara (diarrhoea) will be cause. Dysentery and similar types of bowel disorders can also be taken into account. When Mercury aspects Saturn, the cause of death will be Vapatha or shivering. If Jupiter is the planet there will be swelling in the feet (ayath) and pain (vedana) in the right side of the body. Venus denotes kshaya (consumption) and kapha (cough). Cough and breathing troubles should be predicted if Saturn has no aspect. Weakness and aches in the joints are likely if Rahu is the planet aspecting Saturn. Rheumatic troubles come under this category. Unmada or madness or mental aberration is said to arise if Mandi is the aspecting planet. Yamakantaka brings about moorcha or swooning, while Ardhaprahara denotes death by sores. If Saturn is aspec- ted by Kala, there will be no ostensible cause and death can occur while travelling.

The diseases allotted to different planets should be ascertained very carefully. It is suggested that if Saturn is aspected by no planet, there will be cough and brealhing diffculties. There are several instances of death having occured due to breathing difficulties, even in cases where Saturn is not free from any aspects. Here comes the importance of 'discrimination' and inferential ability on the part of the astrologer. He should remember that these rules are intended only for our guidance and that they should not be considered as axiomatic truths applicable to all cases.

22

338 Prasna Marga

मान्धारूढनवांशकामगृहगाः सौम्याः सुमृत्युप्रदाः पापस्तत्रगतास्तु दुर्मृतिकरास्तेष्वर्क उर्वीपतेः । क्षीणेन्दु: सलिले युधि क्षितिसुतः सूर्यात्मजो वश्चना- द्राहुः पन्नगदंशनान्मरणदो यद्वा विषस्पर्शनात् ।१३।।

Stanza 13 .- The person will have peaceful or painful death according as the 7th from the mandyarudha Navamsa is occupied by benefic or malefic planets. The Sun in the 7th denotes death due to royal displeasure; ,weak Moon-by drow- ing; Mars-in a battle-field; Saturn by deceit; and Rahu-by snake-bite or poisoning.

NOTES These slokas are highly suggestive and are not amen- able to easy translation. Malefics and benefics should occupy the 7th from the Navamsa Rasi held by Mandi at the time of birth. According to some, these rules are also applicable to Prasna charts. Regarding the violent nature of death, what is stated in this stanza can be extended to include a number of other similar causes. Thus death by royal displeasure may mean, hanging, execution for treason, or liquidation as in communist countries. Death in secrecy may mean being murdered. In all these cases, Satyacharya's dictum that an astrologer should use uhapoha (proper guessing) should be carefully remembered.

Cause of Death 339

जूर्त्या तोयविकारतश्र पिटकाद्युष्णा मयैर्वायुना गुन्माङ्गोत्थितवेदनामिरघिकं शोफप्रमेहक्षयैः । कासश्वाससमीरतो मृतिरिनादीनां शनौ त्र्यंशगे तर्यंशेशा यदि तेऽहिवीक्षितयुता मृत्युर्विषोत्थामयैः॥१४॥ Stanza 14 .- If the lord of the Drekkana occupied by Saturn is the Sun, death will be due to fever ; the Moon swelling, tumor and mahodara; Mars-boils, pox, etc; Mercury-disorder in breathing; Jupiter-gulma (a disease inside the stomach) and intense pains in the body; Venus- swelling and consumption; Saturn-cough troubles and rheumatism. If the Drekkana lord is in association with or aspected by Rahu, poison will be the cause of death. NOTES This sloka is simple. Saturn occupies some drekkana. The lord of this Drekkana indicates the cause of death. If the lord is the Sun, fever will be the cause; if Moon-there will be swelling, etc. If the lord of the drekkana is combined with or aspected by Rahu, then death will be due to poisoning.

सौम्यानामंशराशीन् गतवति रविजे स्वर्क्षतुङ्गादिगे वा जीवर्क्षस्थे विशेषान्रियत इह गृहे पुत्रमित्राद्युपेतः । नीचारात्यालयस्थे रविभुवि रहितो बन्धुभिर्दुखित: सन् सर्पत्र्यंशेत्र तिष्ठत्यहिगुळिकसमेतेक्षिते सर्पदष्टः ।।२५।

340 Prasna Marga

Stanza 15 .- The person will die peacefully in the middle of friends and relatives if Saturn occupies benefic Navamsas or his own house or Moolatrikona or exaltation, or if he is in jovian signs. If Saturn is in inimical houses or in debilitation, the person will die unfriended and unhelped. If Saturn happens to be in Sarpa drekkana or if he is associated with or aspected by Rahu or Mandi, the native will die of snake-bite. NOTES, Here again the nature of death is dealt with by taking into consideration the situation of Saturn. If Saturn is in benefic Navamsas, own, friendly, or exaltation or moola- thrikona sign. one's end will be peaceful. Otherwise it will be unhappy. Saturn's situation in a Sarpa drekkana (the 1st of Scorpio, the last of Cancer and the last of Pisces) or his association with Rahu is not desirable as it denotes death by snake-bite poisoning, etc.

मन्दे भौमयुतोथवा रवियुते क्षेत्रस्थिते चानयो- रभूते वह्विमये स्थितेगुगुळिकोपेतेक्षितेग्नौ मृतिः । एवंभूतशनौ जलग्रद्युते तप्तांबुपातादिमि- दोषेऽसत्युदितेम्वुभूतखचरक्षेत्रान्विते वारिणि ॥१६।। Stanza 16 .- If Saturn is in association with Mars or the Sun in Aries, Scorpio or Leo,

Nature of Deatk 341

occupies agnibhuta in association with or aspected by Rahu or Gulika, the person will be burnt to death. If Saturn is associated with watery planets, death will be due to falling in boiling waters. If Saturn occupies jalabhuta or watery signs, he will die by drowning.

NOTES

The first part of the sloka is clear. Saturn must occupy a sign of Mars with Mars or the sign of Sun and should have the aspect or association of Mandi or Rahu besides being posited in Agnibhuta, to be burnt to death. So far as the second part of the sloka is concerned, death by falling in boiling water being poured on takes place if Saturn is associated with jalagrahas (Moon and Venus). If Saturn is in jalabhuta or occupies the signs of jalagrahas (Cancer. Taurus and Libra), death takes place by drown- ing or slipping into rivers, tanks etc. Here also, the afflic- tion due to Rahu's and Mandi's association or aspect should be considered. Where there is an intermingling of influences of both Jala Rasis and Agni Rasis, predictions must be accordingly varied.

In applying this stanza, a distinction should be noted between Agnitatwa Rasis and Agnibhuta, Jalatatva Rasis and Jalabhuta, Vayutatwa Rasis and Vayubhuta and Prithvitatwa Rasis and Prithivibhuta.

Agnitatwa (fiery), Bhutatwa (earthy), Vayutatwa (airy) and Jalatatwa (watery) signs are respectively Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer and their triangular ones.

342 Prasna Marga

Agnibhuta, Jalabhuta etc, are to be understood as follows :

According to the commentator, a Drekkana has 3 Navamsas and a Navamsa has 4 yamas equal to 15 ghatis, so that each yama becomes equal to 32 ghatis. Putting this differently, we can say that if 4 yamas equals 1 Navamsa or 200' of arc 1 yama will be equal to 50 minutes of arc. In a Navamsa, the four yamas are distributed thus :

1st yama 0' to 50' of arc 2nd yama 51' to 100' of arc 3rd yama 101' to 150' of arc 4th yama 151' to 200' of,arc The Bhuta a planet falls in, can be found out by noting the longitudes of the planet concerned.

Illustration : Suppose Saturn's longitude is 25° 32' of Cancer. This means, Saturn has covered 2° 12' or 132' of arc in the 8th Navamsa. Since each yama is equivalent to 50' of arc, Saturn is in the 3rd yama having covered 32' in it. The order of Bhutas in the 1st and 3rd yamas are : Prithvi or Bhumi (Fire) 16' 40" Apa or Jala (water) 13' 20" Teja or Agni (fire) 10' 00" Vayu or Air (wind) 6' 40" Akasha (Ether) 3' 20"

Total 50' 00"

Nature of Death 343

The order is reversed in the 2nd and 4th yamas. In the above example, Saturn is in the 3rd yama having covered 32' in it; which means he is in Agni or Fire Bhuta.

Yama-3rd

Bhumi 16' 40" Jala 13' 20"

Totol 30' 00"

Agnibhuta lasts from 30' to 40' and hence Saturn is in Agnibhuta.

Illustration 2: Mars is in 203° 15' or Libra 23° 15' This means that in Aries Navamsa, Mars has gained 3° 15' or 195' of arc. Since each yama is equal to 50', Mars is in the 4th yama (151' to 200') in which he has covered 45': In the 4th yama the order of succession of Bhutas is Akasa 3' 20" Vayu 6' 40" Agni 10' 00" Apa 13' 20"

Total 33' 20"

Since Mars is in 45' in 4th yama the Bhuta is Bhumi or Prithvi.

त्र्यंशे कोलमुखे स्थिते मृगगणैर्गुधानने पक्षिमि- स्तत्राप्यस्तु बलोनता गुळिकयोगेक्षादिकं भास्करे: ।

344 Prasna Marga

नेष्टस्थानगताथ्च मान्दिगृहपाः सुर्यादयौ दुर्बला- स्तातान्मातृसहोत्थवन्धुतनयस्त्रीभ्यः स्वतो मृत्युदाः ।।१७।

Stanza 17 .- According as weak Saturn aspec- ted by or associated with Gulika or Rahu joins Kolemukha Drekkana or Pakshimukha Drekkana, death will be due to beasts or birds. If the Sun, Moon etc., being weak happen to own the sign occupied by Gulika, the person's death will be brought about respectively by father, mother, brothers, relatives, son wife and his ownself. NOTES One will be done to death by beasts if Saturn who must be weak and who must be aspected by or associated with Rahu occupies a Kolemukha drekkana. Saturn similarly placed in Pakshı drekkana indicates death by birds. Similarly if the Sun is weak and owns the sign occupied by Gulika, and occupies an evil place, the native's death will be brought about by his father. The Moon similarly placed, causes death at the instigation of the mother, Mars at the instigation of brother, Mercury at the instigation of relatives, Jupiter at the hands of the son, Venus at the hands of women or wife; and Saturn so placed, will make the native commit suicide. The first Drekkanas of Scorpio, Capricorn and Cancer are Kolemukha Drekkanas. The second Drekkana of Libra, and the first of Leo and Aquarius are Pakshi Drekkanas.

Cause of Death According to Prasna 345

दौर्बल्यदियुतु शनौ क्षितिभुवा युक्तेक्षिते पश्चता चामुण्ड्यादिनिपीडयारगुळिकोपेतेसिवाणादिभिः। मन्दे मान्दिविवसदीक्षितयुंते कोपेन शम्भोस्तदी यावासाहितवासभूतकृतया जूत्यों मृति निर्दिशेत् ॥१८।। Stanza 18. -If a weak and badly situated Saturn occupies a sign of Mars or has the association or aspect of Mars, death results from the troubles of evil spirits as Chamundi, etc; of Mars and Gulika, he will be affected by an enemy's aabichara; the Sun and Gulika, death will be due to the wrath of God Siva.

NOTES Saturn must be weak, badly situated and occupy a sign of Mars. In this state if he has the association or aspect of Mars and Gulika deith will ensue due to enemy's black magic; if such a Saturn has the association or aspect of the Sun and Gulika death will be due to the wrath of God Shiva.

CAUSE OF DEATH ACCORDING TO PRASNA

मृत्युरोगनिमित्तानि कथिनानीति जातकात्। अथ मृत्युप्रदा रोगा: कथ्यन्ते प्रश्नलग्नतः ॥१९॥ Stanza 19 .- After having detailed the cause of death through horoscopy, we shall pass on to

346 Prasna Marga

discussing the nature of disease leading to death on the basis of Prasna.

वीक्षिते योष्टमं खेटस्तस्य रोगस्तु मृत्यवे। तदभावेष्टमस्तस्य द्वयाभावे तदीशितुः ॥२०।। Stanza 20 .- Death will be due to the disease indicated by the planet aspecting the 8th or in its absence the planet occupying the 8th or in its absence by the lord of the 8th.

NOTES The aspecting planet is the most important. Next comes the occupant and then the lord. It will be seen that according to standard works, the least powerful in causing death is the lord.

अत्यग्निं वेदनामन्तर्ज्वरं चार्कोथ चन्द्रमाः । छदि मूर्ध्वानने तिर्यग्वक्त्रे भूत्रादिबन्धनम् ॥२१। अतिसारं तषं चाधोवक्त्रो शोफं तु सर्वगः। उष्णप्रसरणं दाहं रक्तक्षोभभवं त्रणम् ॥२२।। भूमिजोथ बुधः कुर्याच्छीतज्वरमतिभ्रमौ। सन्निपातरुजं चाथ गुरुर्बुद्धेरनार्जवम् ।२३। अजीर्ति श्रयथुं चाथ दाहं मोहं च भार्गवः।

Cause of Death According to Prasna 347

वायुक्षोभमहिर्मान्दिर्हिकामपि सिरोद्मम् । सूर्यादिगुळिकान्तानामिमे रोगा: प्रकीर्तिताः ॥।२५।। Stanzas 21 to 25 .- Excessive heat and internal fever are the diseases of the Sun. In Urdhwa Mukha Rasis, the Moon gives rise to 'vomitting'; in Thiryugamukha Rasis, urinary diseases; diarrohea and thirst in Adhomukha Rasis and a sophan (swelling ?) generally in all Rasis. Mars causes diseases due to heat in the body, thirst, impure blood and ulcers. Shivering fever, mental disorders and typhoid are caused by Mercury. Jupiter denotes dullness af mind. Indigestion, dropsy (swayuthan), extreme heat in the body, sex-troubles and swoons are all diseases of Venus. Saturns governs thirst, want of appetite, and pains all over the body. Windy complaints and breath- ing difficulties are indicated by Rahu. Mandi denotes contraction of the nerves of cerebral complaints (siro सिरो).

सूर्यादैर्भास्करादीनामंशैवा त्रिस्फुटे युते। ये रोगा मृत्युदाः प्रोक्ताश्रिन्तयेदिह तानपि॥२६।। Stanza 26 .- The diseases of appropriate planets can be predicted if the Sun to Saturn occupy the Navamsa of Thrisphuta. This can be

348 Prasna Marga

used in all places where diseases have to be diagnosed.

चन्द्रे लग्नांशराशिस्थि वृद्धिमेति मनागपि। आमयो यो भवेदेष मरणायैव पृच्छताम् ।।२७।। Stanza 27 .- If the disease shows any signs of increase when the Moon transits the Navamsa Rasi or Lagna, then the person will die of the disease indicated in the previous slokas.

NOTES The Lakshanas discussed in Chapter IV (slokas 55-60) may be advantageously used here for prediction.

लन्नमाद्यंशकाभ्यां यदुदितं पात्रभञ्जनम् । त्रिस्फुटस्थोडना यच्च लक्ष्म तच्नेह चिन्त्यताम् ॥२८।। Stanza 28 .- The Navamsas of Lagna and Mandi, the nimityas (omens) such as breaking of vessels etc., the constellation of the Thrisphuta etc., should all be considered.

मृत्युपतिर्यदि भानु: प्रबलजनस्यांगमो विगृद्य भवेत्। आसन्ने सति मरणे प्रष्टुः स्यात् कोपि कलहो वा ॥२९॥ चन्द्रश्रेद्वनितागमो यदि कुजः कांक्षा गुळक्षीरयो- र्वक्तव्यामयिनोथवा खलु वदेदानीतिमात्रानयोः।

Cause of Death According to Prasna 349

आयानं विदुषो बुधो यदि गुरु्विप्रस्य शुक्रो यदि व्यापद्विप्रचष्पादां यदि शनिः स्वाछुष्टनीचागमः ॥३०॥ मृत्युश्रेप्फणियुक्स वा शिखियुतो मिक्षाशिसर्पागम- स्तस्मिन् केतुयुते भवेच्च पतनं तलारचन्द्रान्विते ्रयाद्दाजनभञ्जनं मरणळक्ष्माथायुरारोग्यदे प्रश्ने रुकच्छमलक्ष्म चैतदुदितं देहासुनाथादिभिः ।।३१।। Stanzas 29 to 31 .- If the lord of Mrityu- sphuta (at the time of query) happens to be the Sun, some persons of distinction arrive quarrelling among themselves or some unexpected quarrel takes place in the house. If the Moon is the lord a strange woman turns up; Mars-some persons take milk and sugar to the house or the questioner takes up a sudden fancy to drink sugared milk. Mercury-a learned man visits the house; Jupiter-a Brahmin makes his appearance ; Venus -nearby the death of a Brahmin or a quadruped takes place; Saturn-some low born and evil- minded men turn up; Rahu-a beggar or a serpent is found near; Ketu-somebody falls down from an elevated place; and Mars and the Moon-some vessels get broken. These indica- tions show that death is near. If instead of Mrityu Sphuta the planets are disposed as above in regard to Prana or Deha

350 Prasna Marga

Sphuta and the above omens are observed, then the sick man will recover.

NOTES Certain omens should happen coincident with the lord of Mrityu Sphuta being a certain planet at the time of Prasna. In regard to questions pertaining to disease, early death must be predicted. Recovery is possible if the omens suggested in stanzas 29 to 31 coincide with the Sun, Moon etc., being lords of Prana Sphuta or Deha Sphuta. For example, if a strange woman turns up when Mrityu Sphuta happens to be owned by the Moon, early death of the person may be predicted. If on the other hand, the same omen takes place but the'Moon insted of being in Mtityu Sphuta, occupies Prana or Deha Sphuta, then the patient will recover.

छर्दिः शोफोतिसारो मरणकरगदास्त्रिस्फुटाशेब्जभृग्वो-

चेतोवाक्स्थम्भनं वा विद इह तु गुरोद्वीभ्रमोपेतवाणी- रोघ: श्वासस्य वायोः स्खलनमपि शनेर्द्ष्ट्युक्तैश्व तैस्तैः इति ॥३२॥ Stanza 32 .- According as the Thrisphuta Navamsa owned by Venus (or the Moon) happens to be Urdwa, Adho or Tiryag sign the disease causing death will be pneumonia, vomitting or diarrohoea. If the lord owning the said Navamsa

Cause of Death According to Prasna 351

happens to be the Sun (or Mars) Mercury, Jupiter or Saturn, death is caused respectively by exces- sive heat, loss of speech, mental trouble or asthama and suffocation. The same results should be predicted if the different planets aspect or occupy the said Navamsa Rasi.

NOTES With regard to Venus and the Moon, Urdhwa Mukha, Adhomukha and Thiryagmukha Rasis are noticed. The Thrisphuta Navamsa, i.e., the Rasi having reference to this should be the sign of a particular planet or be associated with or aspected by the said planet to give the result attributed. Thus if Aries, Scorpio or Leo is the Thrisphuta Navamsa or Mars or the Sun is in the said Rasi or aspects it, then suffering from heat should be predicted. If the Thrisphuta Navamsa happens to be the house of Mercury or Mercury associates with that Navamsa, then one will suffer from inability to talk or think. If the said Navamsa happens to be the house of Jupiter or if he is connected with it, say the person dies because of unsound mind. If Navamsa happens to be the sign of Saturn, or if Saturn is connected with it, then the person is suffering from asthama, suffocation etc., and death will be due to these troubles.

प्राणो लग्ननवांशश्न्द्रनवांशः समीरितो देहः। गुळिकनवांशो मृत्यु: काल: स्यात्त्रिस्फुटस्यांश ।। इति च ।३३।।

352 Prasna Marga

Stanza 33 .- The longitudes of Lagna, the Moon, Mandi and Thrisphuta multiplied by nine gives Prana, Deha, Mrityu and Kala sphutas respectively. NOTES So far, the author death with death-causing disease on the basis of Prasna chart. Now he proceeds to locate the place of dea'h based on birth chart

मृत्यु: स्याचचरभे विदेश उभये मार्गे खदेशे स्थिरे ग्राम्यारण्यजलात्मके तु निधने ग्रामे जलेम्ब्वन्तिके। स्वच्छम्ळेच्छनतोन्नतेषु सदसत्क्षेत्राध ऊर्ध्वानने दीपादीनपि निर्दिशेजननवद्धनाष्टमेनामुना॥३४।। Stanza 34 .- According as the 8th Rasi is movable, common or fixed; grama (village), aranya (forest) or jala (watery) owned by benefics or malefies ; Adhomukha or Urdhwamukha death happens in a foreign place, on the way, or own place; in a village, or a forest or a watery place; in a clean or dirty spot; in plains or table lands respectively. The nature of the lamp etc., can be known considering the 8th instead of Lagna, as is done at the time of birth. NOTES Find the place of death from the nature of the 8th house If it is movable, say he will die in a foreign place.

Place of Death 353

If it is fixed, he will die in his own native place If it is common, he will die on the way. If the 8th is a village Rasi, he will die in a village. If it is a forest Rasi, he will die in a forest. If it is a Rasi owned by good planets, he will die in a clean spot. If it is owned by evil planets, he will die in a place occupied by low people. If it is Adho- mukha Rasi, he will die in plains or places below the sea- level. If it is Urdhwa Mukha Rasi, he will die in high table-lands or elevated places. Whether there is light or a lamp burning at the time of death can also be stated. Varahamihira has described the nature of deepa or lamp at the time of birth by asking us to study Lagna. Here instead of Lagna,read the 8th house and we can predict the nature of deepa at the time of death.

खजन्मानि विलग्नांशपत्योः प्राण्याश्रितेन च। राशिना स्वपराध्वादिप्रदेशेषु वदेन्मृतिम् ।३५।। Stanza 35 .- The nature of the place of death can also be known by applying the principles given in sloka 34 to the Rasi held by the stronger of the lords of Lagna and Navamsa Lagna. NOTES

Marana lakshana cau be aseertained by examining the strongest of the two lords at the time of birth, viz., the lord of Lagna and the lord of Lagna Navamsa. If that Rasi is Chara (moveable), he dies in a foreign place. If it is fixed, he dies in his own house; if it is common, he dies 23

354 Prasna Marga

on the way. If it is Gramya or Aranya, say he will die respectively in a village or forest. If it is watery, he will die in a watery house. If that Rasi is Subha he will die in a clean place and if it is a Papa, he will die in a bad place. For the rest, refer to the previous sloka and repeat the results.

स प्राणी चेदन्यखेटैः समेतः संदृष्टो वा तेषु वीर्यान्वितस्य।

लग्नांशाधीशस्य वा देहभाजां देवांब्वादिस्थानमेदेषु मृत्युः॥३६॥

लग्नलग्नेशयुग्द्रष्टा वास्तिचेत्कश्चनामुना। जीर्णसंस्कृतगेहादौ मरणं कैश्वनेरितम् ।।३७।।

Stanzas 36 and 37 .- We can also examine the strogest of the planets who associate or aspect lord of Lagna or lord of Navamsa Lagna(which- ever is stronger) and from that we can determine the place where the questioner will die. We can also consider the strongest amongst (a) the planet who occupies Lagna; (b) the planet who associ- ates with the lord of Lagna; (c) the planet who aspets Lagna; and (d) the planet who aspects the lord of Lagna.

Place of Death 355

ज्ञात्वा कालादि सर्व तदशुभशुभते चापि बुध्वाथ तेषां सर्वेषां चेच्छुभत्वं गदशमनमरं दीर्घमायुश्च वाच्यम्। सर्वेषां चाशुभत्वं यदि मृतिरचिरान्मिश्रतायां तु तेषां मन्दं शान्ती रुजां वा मृतिरधिकतया स्यात् सतां चासतां च ।।३८।।

Stanza 38 .- The time, the place, the air the querist breathes,etc., the omens in the road when departing, should all be carefully examined. If they are favourable,the person will have long life. If they are adverse, the sick man will not recover.

एवं निरूप्य निर्र्णिते मरणे सति पृच्छताम्। तस्य कालं च रोगांभ् देशांश्चेति विनिर्दिशेत् ॥३९।

Stanza 39 .- After considering carefully, if you come to the conclusion that the sick man will die, then decide the nature of his sickness and the probable period and place at which his death may take place.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे एकादशाध्यायः ॥

द्वादशाध्याय:

DISEASES AND THEIR CURE

निर्णोते सति जीवने खलु रुजा शान्त्यै चिकित्सां वढे- दज्ञातेषु गदेषु-दुष्करतरा सा चापि यस्मात्ततः। कर्तव्यो गदतत्वबोध इह तद्वोधाय मेदा रुजां कथ्यन्ते खलु तत्र रोगशमने कार्याः क्रियाश्रोचिताः

Stanza 1 .- After ascertaining whether the sick man will recover or die, the nature of treatment to be given should be considered. In order to give the best medical treatment, a careful diagnosis of the nature of disease, its cause, etc., is essential. NOTES In this chapter the author describes in his own inimit- able way the various diseases, how they are caused, and how they are to be diagnased. He shows how astrology can be made use of in medical treatment.

तत्तदुक्तामया वाच्या अनिष्टस्थानगैर्ग्रहैः। इष्टस्थितैस्तथारोग्यं तदेवाथ निगद्यते ॥२॥

Diseases ana their Cure 357

Stanza 2 .- Planets occupying anishta or unfavourable houses bring about appropriate diseases. Planets occupying ishta or favourable houses indicate good health.

पापा लाभवृतीयगा: सहजवर्यन्त्याष्टमेभ्योन्यगाः सौम्या मान्दिरपि त्रिकोणमृतिकेन्द्रेभ्योपरत्र स्थितः । सर्वेमी कथयन्त्यनामयतनुं प्रष्टारमेवं स्थिता रोगग्रस्तकळेवरं च कथितेभ्योन्यत्र ते संस्थिताः॥ ३॥

Stanza 3 .- When malefics occupy the 3rd and 11th houses; benefics occupy houses other than 3rd, 6th, 12th and 8th ; and Gulika is in places other than the 5th, 9th, 8th or kendras; good health is indicated. Those occupying unfavour- able places indicate ill-health and disease.

NOTES

Ishta Bhavas or favourable houses for malafics are 3rd and 11th. In the rest of the houses they are unfavourable. Ishta Bhavas for benefics are 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th and 10th. Gulika produces good results when occupying 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 11th and 12th. When malencs, benefics and Gu'ika occupy houses other than those given in the above.paragraph, they denote ill-health and diseases. When favourably disposed, the querist will be healthy.

358 Prasna Marga

आरोग्यदा ग्रहा यत्र सुस्थसंज्ञास्तु तत्रगाः। रोगदा यत्र ते दुस्थास्तदुक्तं सारसंग्रहे॥४॥

Stanza 4 .- According to Sarasangraha planets become susthas in favourable houses giving rise to health and dusthas in unfavourable houses causing diseases.

षष्ठान्त्याष्टमदांबुलग्ननमापत्येषु ये दुर्बलाः पापाः षष्ठमृतिव्ययेष्वपि शुभा दुस्था भवन्ति ग्रहाः। लग्नेशाध्यरयोतिरोगमृतिदा दुस्थेषु सुस्याश्व ते- नुक्तस्थानगता: शशाङ्कसहिता: स्वं स्वं फलं कुर्वते ॥५॥

Stanza 5 .- Weak malefics occupying 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th and 12th and benefics occupying 6th, 8th and 12th become dusthas, Amongst dusthas, the bitter enemy of lord of Lagna is most violent in giving diseases and eausing death. Planets that are found in con- junction with the Moon also give rise to results consistent with their own nature.

द्विष्मृत्युव्ययसंस्यितैस्तदुदितान् व्याधीन् वदेल्लग्नव- द्रष्ट्र तत्सहितेन वा तनुगतैस्तद्रष्ट्मिर्वा प्रहैः ।

Diseases and their Cure 359

ऊर्ध्वास्ये चरमे गळोपरि गलात्तिर्युङ्मुखे च स्थिरे द्वन्द्वेधोमुखगेप्यधः कटितटात् लग्नस्थिते व्याधयः ॥६॥ Stanza 6 .- Diseases have to be read from the planets occupying 6th, 8th and 12th; those associ- ating with or aspecting the lord of Lagna; those that occupy or aspect the Lagna. According as Lagna is moveble and urdhwamukha, or fixed and ihirayangmukha, and common and adhomukha the seat of disease will be above the neck, below the neck and above the waist, or below the waist respectively.

सूर्यादीनां कुक्षिहन्मूर्द्वक्षांस्यूरू वक्त्रं जानुनी चांध्रियुग्मम्। अङ्गानि स्युर्व्यधयोङ्गे ग्रहाणां वक्तव्या दौर्बल्यदौस्थ्यादिभाजाम् ॥७॥

Stanza 7 .- The eight planets from the Sun to Rahu signify respectively the stomach, heart, head, chest, thighs, face, knees and the feet. By considering the intensity of affliction or otherwise of these planets, the strength or weakness of the respective organs can be ascertained. NOTES Some say that the left foot is governed by Ketu.

360 Prasna Marga

वाराङपूर्वावयवा निधेया लग्नादिभावेष्वधिपेषु चैषाम्। सक्ररभावग्रहसंस्थमङ्गं सव्याधिकं प्रष्टूजनस्य वाच्यम्

Stanza 8 .- The twelve houses signify the twelve organs from head to feet. Disease occurs in the part of the body indicated by the afflicted house or planet. NOTES Lagna and the lord of Lagna indicate the head, the 2nd Bhava and the lord of the 2nd indicate the face, the 3rd Bhava and the lord of the 3rd indicate the chest. In this way, the differert parts of the body should be assigned to different houses and their lords as explained by Varaha- mihira in his Brihat Jataka. The parts of the body signified by an afflicted house will be the seat of disease or disorder. Supposing the third house is afflicted. We can indicate that there is some disorder and trouble in the chest region. Similarly if the lord a of Bhava is afflicted, the part of the body signi- fied by the Bhava in question will be the trouble-spot.

स्पृष्टेन राशिना प्रष्ट्रा चारूढेनोदयेन च। रोगस्थानं वदेदुक्तमारूढविषये हि तद् ।। ९ ॥।

Stanza 9 .- The location of the disease can be known from the Rasi symbolical of the limb touched at the time of query, Arudha Lagna or Udaya Lagna. This has been explained already.

Dtseases and their Cure 361

NOTES Suppose the querist touches a certain Bhava m the Prasna chart; then the limb signified by that Bhava will be the seat of trouble. The limbs signified by that sign of Arudha Lagna or even the ascendant can also be taken as the seat of disease.

प्रोक्तस्त्रिदोषसम्बन्धो वराहमिहिरोदितः। ग्रहाणां प्रागथेदानीं वच्म्युक्तं सारसङ्ग्रहे॥१०।

Stanza 10 .- Varaha Mihira's classification of 'Thridoshas' has already explained. Below is given the view contained in Sarasangraha.

पित्तं वातयुतं करोति दिनकरृद्वातं कफ शीतगु पित्तं भूमिसुतस्तथा शशिसुतो वातं च पित्तं कफम्। जीवो वातकफौ सितोनिलकफौ वातं च पित्तं शनिः क्षीणेन्दुः स्थिरराशिनाथकथितं पूर्णः कथ तोयमे।। इति।।

Stanza 11 .- The Sun governs pitta(bile) com- bined with vata (wind); the Moon governs vata and kapha (phlegm); Mars rules pitta ; Budha indicates vata, pita and kapha; Jupiter rules over kapha with vata; Venus also denotes vata and kapha; and Satura governs vata combined with

362 Prasna Marga

pitta; waning Moon brings about the dosha of the lord of the Rasi wbich he occupies; full Moon brings about kapha only.

NOTES According to this view, we see that the Sun governs mostly piita and little of vata. Saturn governs more of vata and a little of pitta. Jupiter indicates more of kapha and a little of vata.

रोगान् कुर्युर्ग्रहाः स्वोक्तपश्चभृतवशादपि। तत्कालाश्वर्तवः स्व्रोक्तास्तथा शास्त्रान्तरोदितम् ॥१२।। Stanza 12 .- The planets cause diseases befit- ting their Pancha Bhuta nature. And diseases appear at the various seasons governed by the planets.

दुस्थयोरर्कभूसून्वो रोगा: स्युः पित्तसम्भवाः। शुक्रन्द्वोर्जलजा मन्दे वातजा ज्ञे त्रिदोषजाः ॥१३॥ बाधिर्याद्या नभोजाता अनिष्टस्थानगे गुरौ। अनिष्टगा निजान् रोगान् कुर्थुर्निजनिजर्तुषु ॥इति॥१४॥ रोगदायिषु खेटेषु तत्तत्प्रोक्तेपु धातुषु। अपि रोगोद्जवो वाच्यः प्रोक्तं ग्रंथान्तरे तथा ।१५।। Stanzas 13 to 15 .- If the Sun and Mars become dusthas, diseases due to pitha will be

Diseases and their Cure 363

caused ; if the Moon and Venus, watery diseases; if Saturn, diseases due to vata; if Mercury, due to all the three doshas; Jupiter in an anishta place brings about diseases caused by akashabhuta. These diseases make their appearance in the Ritus or seasons signified by the concerned planets. Planets also indicate the appropriate dhatus from which diseases arise. The occurrence of diseases has also been dealt with in other treatises.

NOTES The places where planets tecome dusthas have been enumerated in the stanzas 3. 4 and 5 above. Stanzas 13 to 15 deal with diseases due to vata (wind), pitta (bile) and kapha (phlegm), etc., caused by the planets becoming dusthas. If the Sun and Mars are dusthas, diseases due to the inflammation of pitta (bile) become manifested. According to the famous Ayurvedic scientist Vagbhata, pitta has the characteristic of fire (pittamvahnihi). There- fore if the Sun or Mars becomes a dustha, one suffers from diseases due to heat such as constipation, measles, ulcers, skin eruptions, small-pox, burning sensation, etc. The Moon and Venus as dusthas produce diseases caused by water such as swellings in different parts of the body. Saturn brings about diseases due to vata (wind). Mercury brings about diseases such as brain fever, typhoid, etc., due to the inflammation of all the three doshas. Jupiter brings about deafness. If in the birth horoscope, any planet is dustha, then, during the ritu or season ruled by the dustha planet, the appropriate disease makes its

364 Prasna Marga

appearance. The allocation of seasons to different planets should be taken according to Varahamihira. Venus rules Vasantharitu or spring (March-April); the Sun and Mars Greeshma or windy season (May-June); the Moon -- Varsha or rainy season (July-August): Mercury-Sarat- Autumn (September-October) ; Jupiter-Hemanta or Fall (November-December) and Saturn-Sasira (January- February)

Suppose in a horoscope, the Sun is a dustha. The native is sensitive to the diseases of pitta and heat. The Sun rules the ritu or season of spring and the dhatu raktha or blood. Therefore during the season of spring, the native suffers from a disease due to blood impurity, caused by excessive heat and bile. In this way, the other planets should also be dealt with. The next sloka explains the method.

दुस्थितास्थ्यादिधातुस्थो रोगिणां रोग ईर्यताम्। रोगप्रश्नेथवा रोगदाश्रितांशपधातुगः ॥ इति ॥१६॥।

Stanza 16 .- A man will suffer from the diseases affecting the dhatu governed by dustha or the lord of the Navamsa occupied by it.

NOTES

Reference may be made to sloka 3 of Chapter XI, for details about different dhatus and the planets governing them. According to this stanza not only the dustha but its Navamsa lord should also be considered.

Types of Diseases 365

सन्ति प्रकारभेदाश्र रोगभेदनिरूपणे। ते चाप्यत्र विलिख्यन्ते यथा शास्त्रान्तरोदिताः ॥१७।।

Stanza 17 .- There are other principles to ascertain the nature of the disease and they are enumerated in other works.

TYPES OF DISEASES

रोगास्तु द्विविधा ज्ञेया निजागन्तुविभेदतः ।

निजाश्रागन्तुकाश्रापि प्रत्येकं द्विविधा: पुनः ॥१८।। निजा शरीरचित्तोत्था दृष्टादृष्टनिमित्तजाः। तथैवागन्तुकाश्चैवं व्याधयः स्युश्रतुर्विधाः॥१९।। वातपित्तकफोद्भृताः पृथक्संसर्गजास्तथा। सन्निपातभवाश्चैते शारीराः कीर्तिता गदाः ॥२०।।

Stanzas 18 to 20 .- There are two types of diseases, viz., nija and aganthuka. These two can again be sub-divided thus : nija into sarirotha and chittotha; and aganthuka into drishta nimittaja and adrishta nimittaja. Bodily diseases are of four kinds, viz., those caused by vata, those caused by pitha, those caused by kapha and those caused by sannipatha.

366 Prasna Marga

NOTES

The classification of diseases suggestcd in the above slokas can be represented thus :

Diseases

Nija (natural) Aganthuka (acquired)

Sarirotha Chittotha Drishta- (bodily) nimittaja Adrishta- (mental) nımittaja (known (unknown causes) causes)

Vata Pitta Kapha Sannipatha

Diseases arising in the body may also be due to a combi- nation of vata and pitta, vata and kapha and pitta and kapha. Thus there are seven variations of bodily troubles arising from (11 vata, (2) pitta, (3) kapha, and a combi nation of (4) vata and pitta, (5) vata and kapha, (6) pitta and kapha and (7) vata, pitta and kapha.

अष्टमेन तदीशेन तद्द्रष्ट्रा तद्गतेन वा। विज्ञातव्या: स्घुरेतेषां वीर्यतस्तत्कृता गदाः ।२१।।

Stanza 21 .- The bodily diseases (sarirotha) can be determined by considering the strength of the 8th house, its lord, the planet aspecting or occupying it.

Types of Diseases 367

कोघसाध्वसशोकादिवेगजातस्तु मानसाः। ज्ेया रन्ध्रमनोनाथमिथोयोगेक्षणादिभि: ।२२।

Stanza 22 .- Anger, fear, sorrow, desires and such emotions bring about mental diseases. They have to be determined by considering the relation- ship between the lords of the 5th and the 8th.

NOTES To the 5th house is allocated to Manas or mind. By relationship is meant the disposition of the lords of the 5th and 8th in mutual aspect, association, kendras, etc. Chithottas are diseases arising from emotional distur- bances as different from bodily peculiarities. The ancients, it will be seen, clearly recognised the distinction between the mental or psychic disturbances and physical or bodily ailments.

शापाभिचारघातादिजाता दृष्टनिमित्तजाः। ज्ञेया: षछ्ठतदीशाभ्यां तद्द्रष्ट्रा तद्गतेन वा ॥२३।

रन्ध्रेशषष्ठसम्बन्धे शापाद्याः प्रबलाश ते। अदृष्टहेतुजा ज्ेया बाधकग्रहसम्भवाः ॥ इति ॥२४॥

Stanzas 23 and 24 .- The drishtanimittaja diseases-curses, incantations and falls from elevation-should be ascertained from the 6th, its lord or the planet aspecting the 6th or the

368 Prasna Marga

planet occupying the 6th. If the lords of the 6th and 8th are related, then the intensity of the diseases will be much. The adrishitanimittaja diseases should be known from the attack of evil spirits.

NOTES In the stanzas 21 and 22 Nija diseases have been explained. In star zas 23 and 24 the author deals with Agunthaka diseases. There are two types, viz., drishta- nimittaja and adrishtanimittaja. To the former category belong the curses of great men, elders, parents, Gurus. etc., the incantations (Kshudra,Mantras) of enemies and sudden fall from elevations and accidents. Examine the 6th lo d, the planets aspecting the 6th and the planets occupying the 6th. Consider the stiongest and determine the disease. If the 6th and 8th lords are related (i.e., in mutual aspect, association, etc.), then the effect of the curses, incantations, etc , will be powerful and the native will have to constantly suffer. The adrishtanimittaja diseases are said to be brought about by spirits, devils, hobgoblins, ghosts, etc. (Badhaka Grahas).

It is within our humble experience tnat when there is a conjunction of the 6th and 8th loras, the native especia'ly during the Dasas of the 6th or 8th lord has passed through untold suffering mentally and also physically, though medically no abnormality is suspected. Another interpretation is, such diseases for which no immediate cause could be traced are karmic in origin and are caused by the Badhaka Planets.

Types of Diseases 369

दष्टं वा यच्छूतं द्रव्यं प्रश्नकाले यदच्छया । तद्वशाच रुजां मेदा हेया ग्रन्थान्तरे तथा।२५॥।

Stanza 25 .- The nature of the disease can be known also by a careful observation of mate- rials seen or the names mentioned at the time of Prasna. The things seen and the sounds heard should be purely accidental.

यस्य रोगस यद्द्रव्यमपर्थ्यं तस्य वीक्षणे। श्रवणे वास्य विज्ञेयः स रोगो रोगचिन्तने ॥२६॥।

Stanza 26 .- By seeing anything or hearing about anything which would indicate that the disease will aggravate, increase in the sickness of the man can be predicted.

तत्राद्या मारुतं घ्नन्ति त्रयस्तिक्तादय: कफम् ॥२७।। कपायतिक्तमधुराः पित्तं पुष्णन्ति चेतरे। वातः पित्तं कफश्चेति त्रयो दोषाः समासतः ॥।२८।।

Stanzas 27 and 28 .- Of the six rasas or tastes-(1) madhura, (2) amla, (3) lavana, 24

370 Prasna Marga

(4) thiktha, (5) ushna and kashaya, the first three remove vata and aggravate kapha; the remaining three remove kapha and aggravate vata. Pitta is destroyed by the 1st, 4th and 6th and aggravated by 2nd, 3rd and 4th.

NOTES The above two stanzas are from Astanga Hridaya. The shadrasas are said to remove or aggravate the three doshas as followas :-

Vata (wind) is removed, by madhura (sweetness), amla (sourness) and lavana (salt); kapha (phlegm) is neutralised by thiktha (bitter), ushna (hot) and kashaya. Pitta is destroyed by madhura (sweet), thiktha (bitter) and kashaya. Contrarily, vata is aggravated by thiktha (bitter), ushna (hot) and kashaya. Kapha is increased by madhura (sweet), amla (sour), lavana (salt) and ushna (hot).

यस्य ग्रहस्य यो दोषः पित्तादिष्विह की तेतः। तेन रोगे तु वक्तव्ये वाच्यस्तद्दोषजो गद़ः ।।२९।।

Stanza 29 .- The disease one will suffer from arises from the dosha governed by the planet causing the disease.

NOTES Different planets govern different doshas. For exam- ple, if the Sun is the disease-causing planet, then the

Symptoms of Madness 371

disease will be due to excitation of pitta. If it is the Moon then the disease will be due to vata and pitta. In this way should be ascertained the cause of diseases from the planets.

पापालोकितयोराद्ैर्योगर्होरादिषूदितैः । अपि ज्ञेया रुजां भेदा: प्राग्जन्मदुरितोन्द्वाः ॥३०।।

Stanza 30 .- The disease caused by past Karma in a person's birth can be ascertained by studying works on Hora.

NOTES Here the reference is to Varaha Mihira's Brihat Jataka. In Chapter XXI the diseases one suffers from past sins are enumerated. The nature of unmada (lunacy) is detailed in the following stanzas.

SYMPTOMS OF MADNESS

लग्नस्थे घिषणे दिवाकरसुतो भौमोथवा द्यूनगो मन्दे लग्नगते मदात्मजतपः संस्थो महीनन्दनः। भूर्तौ मूढशशीन्दुजौ कशशशी मन्दश्र रिष्फस्थितौ पापो पेतकृशामृतांशुरुद यायसवान्तवर्मोपगः ॥।३१।। अस्ते पापयुतो मार्न्दर्वित्त्रिषष्ठाष्टमान्त्यगः । उन्माददायिनो योगा एवमष्टौ समीरिताः ।।३२।।

372 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 31 and 32 .- Jupiter in the ascendant and Saturn or Mars in the 7th; Saturn in Lagna and Mars in the 7th, 5th or 9th; the Moon and Mercury in combustion in Lagna; weak Moon and Saturn in the 12th; weak Moon associated with a malefic in Lagna, 5th, 8th or 9th; Mandi in the 7th in association with a malefic; and afflicted Mercury. in the 3rd, 6th, 8th or 12th; These 8 combinations cause madness or unmada.

NOTES The first combination actually suggests two combina- tions, viz., (1) Jupiter in Lagna and Saturn in the 7th and (2) Jupiter in Lagna and Mars in the 7th and hence the total number of combinations is 8. These yogas for un- mada or madness are quite clear and need no explanation.

कारणमुन्मादानामुन्मत्तानां तथैव चेष्टाद्यम्। कथ्यत इह तर्द्मेदास्तत् खल शास्त्रान्तरेषु निर्दिष्टम् ।।३३॥

Stanza 33 .- The causes that usher in 'lunacy' and the bodily movements of persons suffering from mental disease and the different types of mental patients are noted below. Some of them have been taken from other works.

Symptoms of Madness 373

हर्षेच्छाभयशोका देविरुद्वाशुचिभोजनाद् । गुरुदेवादिकोपाच पञ्चोन्मादा भवन्त्यथ ।३४।। त्रिदोपजा: सान्निपाता आगन्तव इति स्मृताः। हसनास्फोटनाक्रन्दगीतनर्तनरोदनम्।।३५।। अस्थानमङ्गविक्षेपस्ताम्रा मृदुकशा तनुः। जीर्णे बलं च वाग्बह्वी वातोन्मादस्य लक्षणम् ।३६।।

Stanzas 34 to 36. -The causes for madness are excessive delight, desire. fear, sorrow, eating disagreeable and dirty food and the wrath of preceptors and gods. There are five types of madness; three kinds arise from the three doshas individually, one kind from Sannipatha and the last one caused by external influences. Signs of madness due to vata are: laughing, clapping hands, speaking aloud, singing, dancing, crying, moving about, shaking bodily organs, the body becoming copper coloured, soft and emaciated. The disease shows signs of increase as soon as the food is digested and the person eats too much

NOTES The main causes of mental dislocation are due to excessive pleasure and delight, too much fear, too many

374 Prasna Marga

desires and sorrows, eating all kinds of dirty and un- desirable foods and curses of parents, teachers and deities. Moderation in food, drink, sleep, sex life, etc., is the keynote of mental equilibrium. A man getting too elated when things go in his favour and very depressed at the slightest misfortune are all signs of imbalance. If one wounds the feelings of one's elders, preceptors and parents, the reaction is always adverse to the person. Therefore the curses and blessings are concentrated forms of thought vibrations capable of hitting the defaulter for good or bad. Lunacy given rise to by vata or wind goes under the name of vatonmada. This can be deteced by the following symptoms. A mad person laughs (hasano) at all wrong moments irrespective of time,circumstance or age or situa- tion. He claps his hands often (aspotan vada), speaking aloud, singing songs (geeta) and dancing (nartana) round and round. He wails or cries bitterly (rodana), constantly moving about (asthana). He wrings his hands and shakes his legs (angavikshepa).His body becomes copper-coloured, soft and emaciated (thamra mridu krisa tanu). The disease shows signs of increase as soon as the intaken food is digested. He speaks too much.

संरम्भामर्ष वैदग्ध्यममिद्रवणतर्जनम्। छायाशीतानतोयेच्छा रोष: पीतोष्णदेहता ।३७। नारीविविक्तप्रियता निद्रारोचौ मनाग्वचः । लाला छर्दिर्बलं भुक्तौ नखादिषु च शुक्लता।।३८।।

Symptoms of Madness 375

एताः पित्तकफोन्मादचेष्टाः श्रोकोदिताः क्रमात्। संमिश्रलक्षणो वर्ज्य उन्मादः सान्निपातिकः ॥३९॥ Stanzas 37 to 39 .- Seeking solitude and women, sleeping too much, showing aversion for everything, speaking little, drops of saliva trickling down, vomitting always, sickness increasing with intake of food, the finger nails turning pale and white, hating all, growing impatient, exhibiting a tendency to do very clever acts, flying in a fury at the face of all, showering abuses, longing to drink water and eat food, avoiding great heat or cold and ever angry and the body becoming yellow and hot : are respectively the signs of kapha and pitta unmada. In sannipatha unmada, all the above characteristics will be found mixed. आगन्तवो ग्रहा व्ञेयास्तेतु देवासुरादयः । अमर्त्या बलवाक्ज्ञानविक्रमादिसमन्विताः॥४०।। Stanza 40 .- By the slow and invisible influ- ence of certain Devagrahas and Asuragrahas, lunacy is caused. When one is 'possessed' by a Devagraha, he becomes strong and his words will be learned and studied. वातोन्मादे स्नेहपानं पित्तोन्मादे विरेचनम्। क्लेष्मिके नस्यवमनमागन्तुष्वखिला: क्रियाः ॥४१।।

376 Prasna Marga

सर्वे नश्यन्ति चोन्मादा जपहोमादिकर्मतः ॥४२।

Stanzas 41 and 42 .- Medicated oils and ghee can cure vatonmada. Strong purgatives will give relief in pittonmada. Madness caused by kapha can be got rid of by medicines for inhaling and vomitting. There is no treatment for sannipatha unmada. All types of madness can however be cured by Japa, Homa and similar remedial measures.

संप्रदायविशेषोस्ति पूर्वाचार्यैरुदाहतः । उन्मादकारणादीनां कथने स च लिख्यते॥४३।। विषमाशुचिभोजनोपवासैर्भयवैराग्यम्ुधाक्रधामिचारैः ।

दशेति हेतवो भ्रान्तौ दशहेतुभवा अपि। त्रिदोषजाः स्युरुन्मादाः पित्तजे बन्धनं भवेत्।४५।। Stanzas 43 to 45 .- In dealing with this subject, some writers have taken another point of view. Eating at irregular hours either too much or too little, unhygienic food, fasting, fear, indifference to or aversion for all sensual pleasures; anger, enemies, villifying elders, preceptors and superiors; making wrong use of

Symptoms of Madness 377

fire and getting the dissatisfaction of Devas by censuring them; all these can be brought under the three types of unmada caused by the three doshas. A man affected by pitta unmada will be angry and rushing about and hence he is to be bound hand and foot or to be caged.

चन्द्रशुकाष्टमाधीशा गोचरेतरगा यदि। विषमाष्ट्रयुपवासोत्थ उन्माद इति निर्दिशेद्॥४६।। केतुमान्दहियु क्तेषु चैतेष्वशुचिभुक्तिजः । सपापे पश्चमे भीतिवैराग्योत्थः स भूमिजे ॥४७॥

क्रोधजोथाभिचारोत्थः षष्ठगेष्वशुभेषु सः। गुर्वादिशापसम्भूतः पापे नवमसंस्थिते ॥४८।। कल्याणपश्चगव्याज्य सेवाद्येषु विधीयताम् ।।४९।।

Stanzas 46 to 49 .- Lunacy will be due to star- vation or irregular use of food; unhygienic food ; fear or renunciation; anger; abhichara; and curses of preceptors, Agni or Gods, according as the Moon, Venus and the lord of the 8th are in evil places ; these lords are in conjunction with Rahu, Ketu or Mandi; malefics are in the 5th; Mars is in 5th; malefics are in the 6th; and malefics are in

378 Prasna Marga

the 9th. For all these, kalyana ghrita and pancha- gavya ghrita are very efficacious medicines.

NOTES

If the Moon, Venus and the lord of the 8th occupy evi places, then it must be inferred that the lunacy is caused by starvation, fasting or irregular use of food. If these lords are in conjunction with Rahu. Ketu or Gulika, then the person's lunacy is due to unhygienic food. If evil planets other than Mars occupy the 5th house, the mental disease is caused by fear or renunciation. If Mars is in the 5th, anger is the cause of disease. If evil planets occupy the 6th house, abhichara or black magic is the reason. If evil planets occupy the 9th house the disease is the outcome of the curses of preceptors or Fire God or wrath of Deities.

SYMPTOMS FOR EPILEPSY

मन्दे रन्त्रगतेहौ च त्रिकोणे बलिनो शुभाः। योगोपस्मारदो भानुरभौंमश्च गददौ यदि ॥५०।।

Stanza 50 .- If Saturn is in the 8th, powerful malefics are in trines and the Sun and Mars are in the 12th, then the native suffers from apasmara or epilepsy. NOTES This sloka can be interpreted thus : 1. The Sun occupies an evil position such as the 8th house.

Symptom for Epilepsy 379

2. Mars also occupies a similar position. 3. Rahu and Saturn occupy the 8thi house and other evil planets occupy the 5th and 9th.

मिन्नो द्वादशमिर्भेदैरपस्मार: स्वरूपतः। स च तस्य च भेदास्ते निगद्यन्ते स्वरूपतः ॥५१।।

Stanza 51 .- Though actually apasmara is only one disease, it can be recognised in 12 forms.

विस्रस्ताङ्ग: पतति सहसा भूतले नष्टसंज्ञः फेनोद्गारी रसति परुषं सन्नकायशिराय। व्यावृत्ताक्षो दशति दशनं पीतवर्णः प्रमादी तोयासक्तो विकृतवदन: स्यादपस्मारः एष: ।५२।।

Stanza 52 .- A man faints all of a sudden and falls on the ground; some dirty sphutums flow out of his mouth; he produces disagreeable sounds; he lies on the ground tired and limps; his eyes roll alround; he bites his teeth; he becomes pale; he gets excited; he feels thirsty and shows awry faces. These are the signs of epilepsy. NOTES

After some time the person gets up as if he is not affected by anythng. Some are of the opinion that this is

380 Prasna Marga

not a disease but it is the attack of a Devata or Deity. But it has to be said that the ancients deified every disease. In Sayaniya every disease has been given 'a shape' befitting a deity. Further, even trees and mountains have been given a shape. Hence it is to be inferred that all things have two forms-one immovable or sthoola (sthavara) as we see, and one movable or sookshma (jangama) from which we do not see.

श्वासना मलिना निद्रा जंभिकानशना तथा। त्रासिनी मोहिनी चाथ रोदनी क्रोधनी तथा ॥५३।।

तापनी शोषणी चैव ध्वंसिनी चेति कीर्तिताः। दूत्यो द्वादश विख्याता अपस्मारस्य सुप्रियाः।५४॥

एताः समस्ता व्वस्ता वा संश्रयन्ति नरं किल। स्वाख्यानार्थवतीं चेष्टां तत्राभिव्यञ्जयन्ति व ॥५५॥

Stanzas 53 to 55 .- Svasani, Malina, Nidra, Jrimbhika, Anasana, Thrasini, Mohini, Rodani, Krodhini, Thapani, Soshani, and Dhwamsini are the twelve minds of apasmara. They attend the person affected by this disease in the manner of their names finding expression in the behaviour of the sick person. NOTES The twelve names listed are self-explanatory as

Treatment for Epilepsy 381

follows :- Svasana means gasping; malina-soiling of body; nidra-sleepiness ; jrimbhika-yawning; anasana- no interest in food; thrasini-fearful; mohini-beguiling; rodani-wailing; krodhani-angry; thapani-excited; soshani-drying up; dhwamsini-destructive.

TREATMENT FOR EPILEPSY

शमायादावपस्मारे कूश्माण्डीबलिमाइरेद्। सुदर्शनेन जुहुयात्तिलैः क्रोधाग्निनाथवा ।५६।। प्रत्यक्षरसहस्त्रेण धोरापस्मारशान्तये।। इति ।५७।।

Stanzas 56 and 57 .- With the aid of kush- manda bali and tilahoma with sudarsana mantra or krodhagni mantra, even the most violent form of apasmara can be got rid of. NOTES In these two stanzas, remedial measures for the cure of epilepsy have been suggested. As the performance of these remedial measures involves Mantrasastra techniques, it is advisable to consult the specialists in Mantra Sastra before attempting anything on the point.

दृष्टा ग्रन्थान्तरे प्रश्नविषयेपस्मृतौ हिताः। लिखितास्त्वत्र लिख्यन्ते चिकित्सा अपि काशन ।५८।।

Stanza 58 .- The question of apasmara has been dealt with in other suitable works on the

382 Prasna Marga

subject. A few methods of treatment are given herewith.

सिन्धूत्थवृश्रिका ळीकुष्ठकणाभार्ङ्गिमिः कृतं चूर्णम्। नसि योजयेत्तु शस्तं तीव्र। पस्मारशान्तये पुंसाम् ॥५९।। Stanza 59 .- Powder of sindutha, vrischikali, kushta, vanga, bhangee should be inserted in the nose. Violent apasmara in males will be pacified.

ब्रह्मीरसे धृतवचामयशंखपुष्पधात्रीसमुद्धवरसे मधुकान्वितं च। सिद्धार्थहिंगुसहिते वृषवस्तमूत्रे पानादिना हरति सर्पिरपस्मृति तद् ॥६०।। Stanza 60 .- The juice of brahmi combined with vacha (baje), amaya, sankhapushpa, the juice of dhatri (nellikayi) and honey, siddhartha (white mustard), hingu, urine of cow taken in or inhaled pacifies apasmara. त्रिवृद्वि ळङ्गत्रिफलाग्निविश्वव्याघ तसिन्धूत्थकणै :- र्यथावद्। ब्रह्मीरसे सर्पिरिदं प्रशस्तं पुंसामपस्मारविनाशनाय

Treatment for Epilepsy 383.

Stanza 61 .- Thrivridu (trigathi), vilanga (vayuvilanga), thriphala (tili, alale), agni (bitra), viswavyadhata (shunti), sindhoota, kana, made into a paste with brahmirasa will be an appropriate remedy for apasmara.

दार्वीतिक्तक शंखपुष्पसहितैरेलावचायष्टिभिः। पाठामागिसंयुतं घृतमिदं गव्येषु सिद्धं नृणां तीव्रापस्मृतिदोषविस्मृतिहरं कुष्ठापहं कांतिदम् ।।६२।।

Stanza 62 .- Manjishata, agni-vilanga, kushta, ranimustha, thrivridu, suriba, darvee (dalchinni), thikthaka, sankhapushpa, ela (elakki), vacha (baje), yashti (madhu), patha (balegadde), maga- dhi-all made into ghee and mixed with gavya destroys violent apasmara, leprosy, loss of think- ing (vismruti) and increases the shining of body.

NOTES Stanzas 58 to 62 give details of medicines to be used for curing apasmara. By gavya is meant a mixture of cowdung, cow's urine, milk and curds. The proportion of mixing the four items is given as 1: 2:16:5. English equivalents of several medicines suggested in the above slokas are not available. Therefore it is advisable to seek the help of a specialist in Ayurveda to understand the

384 Prasna Marga

prescription clearly. A layman should never attempt to give this treatment.

ABERRATION OF MIND

पापग्रहेक्षितं लग्नं रन्ध्रं रविजवीक्षितम्। रन्घ्रेशो विबलो योग एष भक्तविरोधकृत् ।६३।। Stanza 63 .- If malefics aspect Lagna, Saturn aspects the 8th house and the lord of the 8th house is weak, then the person suffers from the disease of inability to take the good (bhakta virodha), NOTES What is meant by the disease bhakta virodha is to be ascertained from books on Ayurveda.

COMBINATIONS FOR DIABETES

लग्ने पापेक्षिते लग्ननाथे नीचारिराशिगे। शुकयुक्तेक्षितं रन्ध्रमेषयोग: प्रमेहकृत्।६४।। Stanza 64 .- If malefics aspects Lagna and the lord of the Lagna is debilitated or in the sign of enemy, and Venus occupies or aspects the 8th, the person suffers from diabetes.

सिंहे कुक्ष्यक्षिजेत्याद्यैर्व्याधयो येत्र कीर्तिताः। आरूढविषये पूर्व चिन्तयेदि तानपि ।।६५।।

Diseases Indicated by Planets 385

Stanza 65 .- Diseases described earlier about stomach, eye, etc., in respect of Arudha (VIII Chapter) may be looked into now in this con- nection.

मूर्तिमेदा रुजां मेदाः प्रश्नानुष्ठानपद्धतौ। प्रोक्ता दुश्यविहअनां लिख्यन्तेत्र च ते तथा ॥६६।। Stanza 66 .- Different types of constitutions and diseases due to planets becoming dusthas and discussed in Anushtana Paddahati are given herewith. NOTES Diseases are of two kinds. Medical treatment is essential for some and mantriac measures are unimportant for them. They are diseases. For some mantriac and tantric measures are very essential and medical treatment is only subsidiary. They are said to be 'troubles from devatas' (influence of spirits). Planets show these two types of diseases. DISEASES INDICATED BY PLANETS

व्याधीन् वक्ति रविर्दगार्त्यरिमयं त्वग्दोषमस्थिस्रवम्।

Stanza 67 .- Diseases pertaining to the Sun are: those arising from inflammation of bile 25

386 Prasna Marga

(pitta), fever with pains (ushnajwara), sudden fall, epilepsy (apasmara); heart,stomach and eye trobles; fear from enemies; cutaneous diseases (thwaka- dosha), bone troubles (asthisrava), leprosy, burns, danger from weapons and poison; affliction to wife and son; fear from quadrupeds, thieves, rulers; and wrath of the family deity,serpent gods and Siva Bhutas.

निद्रालस्यकफातिसारपिटकाः शीतज्वरं चन्द्रमाः

चेतश्शांतिमसृग्विकारमुदकाद्ीतिं च बालग्रहात् दुर्गाकिन्नरधर्मदैवफणभृद्यक्षाच्च पीडां वदेत् ।६८।। Stanza 68 .- Increase of sleep and inertia, diseases of phlegm (kapha), diarrhoea, shivering fever, wounds caused by the horns of animals, troubles from watery animals, dyspepsia (agni- mandya), anaemia, sorrow from wife, jaundice, mental and emotional affliction, blood-poisoning, fear from water, troubles from Bala Grahas; and wrath of the goddess Durga, kinnaras, family deities, serpents and yakshis, are the troubles arising from the Moon.

तृष्णासृक्कोपपित्तज्वरमनलविषास्त्रार्तिकुष्ठा क्षिरोगान्

Diseases Indicated by Planets 387

Stanza 69 .- The diseases of Mars are : thirst, blood pressure, fever due to inflammation of the bile, diseases caused by heat; poison and weapons, leprosy, eye and spleen troubles,epilepsy, bone decay, loss of lustre in the skin, itching, troubles from rulers, enemies and thieves; quarrels with brothers, sons and relatives; fight with others, fear from demons, Gandharva and destructive spirits and diseases above the neck.

भ्रान्ति दुर्वचनं दगामयगळघ्राणोत्थरोगान् ज्वरं पित्तश्लम्मसमीरजं विषमपि त्वग्दोषपाण्ड्वामयान्। दुस्स्वप्नं च विचिर्चिकां निपतनं पारुष्यबन्धश्रमान्। गन्घर्वक्षितिहर्म्यवासिमयुमिर्जो वक्ति पीडां खगैः।७०॥

Stanza 70 .- Mercury causes mental aberra- tion, a tendency to use abusive language, diseases of the eye, throat, nose; fever caused by the fury of all three doshas; fear from poison, skin diseases, bad dreams. itches, sudden falls, fear of imprisonment and the wrath of gandharvas and kinnaras usually found in beautiful mansions, and troubles from birds.

388 Prasna Marga

गुल्मान्त्रज्वरशोकमोहकफजश्रोत्रार्तिमेहामयान् देवस्थानानिधिप्रपीडनमहीदेवेशशापोद्द्रवम्।

जीव: सूचयति सयं बुघगुरू कृष्णापचारोद्द्वम् ।७१।। Stanza 71 .- Spleen diseases (gulma), fever, sorrow, fainting, ear troubles due to phlegm, dia- betes ; afflictions due to the removal of temple treasure and the curses of Brahmins; troubles from kinnaras, yakshas, devas and vidyadhara; and diseases caused by the anger of serpents and God Vishnu are the results due to Jupiter.

वासस्त्रीकृषिदेहकान्तिविद्दति शोफामयं योगिनी- यक्षीमातृगणाद्धयं प्रियसुहज्धङ्गं सितः सूचयेत् ।७२।। Stanza 72 .- Venus brings about leucoderma (pandu) disease arising from phlegm and wind, diseases in the eye, laziness, tiredness and exhaus- tion (diabetes is another reading); diseases in the private parts, face and urinary system; affliction due to avarice for money or girls ; loss of seminal fluid,loss of clothes, wife; cultivation, fadingaway

Diseases Indicated by Planets 389

of the lustre in the body, swelling, and fear from yogini, yakshis, matrus and the death of near relations.

भ्रान्ति कुक्षिरुगन्तरुष्णभृतकध्वंसं च पश्चाहतिम्। भार्यापुत्रविपत्तिमङ्गविहतिं हत्तापमकोत्मजो वृक्षाश्मक्षतिमाह कश्मलगणैः पीडां पिशाचादिभिः ।।७३।। Stanza 73 .- Windy (vata) and phlegmatic (kapha) diseases, troubles in the legs, unforeseen dangers, laziness, weakness due to over-exertion, mental affliction,stomach troubles, loss of servants and quadrupeds, danger to wife and children, bodily accidents, heat troubles, injuries from the fall of trees or stones and troubles from evil spirits and ghosts, are all denoted by Saturn.

सवर्भानुस्तनुतापकुष्ठविषमव्याधीन् विषं कृत्रिमं पादार्ति च पिशाचपन्नगभयं भार्यातनूजापदम्। ब्रह्मक्षत्रविरोधशत्रुजमयं केतुस्तु संसूचयेत् प्रेतोत्थं च गदं विषं च गुळिक: सर्पार्तिमाशौचकम् 119811

390 Prasna Marga

Stanza 74 .- Rahu signifies heat in the body, leprosy, vishama vyadhi (incurable diseases ?), risk of being poisoned, diseases in the feet, troubles from devils and serpents; danger from wife and children, quarrels with Kshatriyas and Brahmins and troubles from enemies in the shape of abhi- chara. Ketu brings about all these besides causing troubles from pretas (disembodied souls) and poison. Besides giving the troubles attributed to Rahu and Ketu, Gulika brings about troubles from snakes and pollution by the death of near relatives.

COMBINATIONS FOR DISEASES

बाधां वक्ति पिशाचजां दशमगो मन्दोथ सर्पेक्षितो वीक्षाघ्राणभवं विषं च गुळिको देहाष्टमस्यानगः। पापाः पष्ठगतास्तथोदररुजं रन्ध्रासगारो ज्वरं लग्नास्तोपगतोप्यजीर्णजरुजं चन्द्रोरिपीडां रिपौ।७५।।

Stanza 75 .- Saturn in the 10th house denotes troubles from pisachas; Gulika in Lagna or the 8th house aspected by Rahu generates poison in the system due to smelling or evil eye; malefics in the 6th cause stomach troubles: Mars in the 8th gives rise to fever, in Lagna or the 7th, indiges-

Combinations for Diseases 391

tion. When the Moon is in the 6th troubles arise from enemies.

ग्रहाश्रितभभावान्यग्रहयोगेक्षणादिकम्। दौस्थ्याधिक्यं च सश्चिन्त्य सर्व वाच्यं यथोचितम्

Stanza 76 .- The intensity of evil a planet is subject to should be properly assessed by noting where he stands, who associates with him, who is aspecting him, and so forth, and then the predic- tion must be made suiting the circumstance.

लाभवृतीयौ हित्वा परत्र पापा सिथिता भवन्ति यदि। रोगवतैव प्रष्ट्रा भाव्यं तत्प्रोक्तदोषतो नियतम् ॥७७ Stanza 77 .- It should be examined whether any malefic planets occupy houses other than 3rd and 11th. Then it should be inferred that the person is suffering from a disease, appropriate to the malefic.

कादीति कन्दगित्याभ्यां प्रष्ुरङ्गानि चिन्तयेत्। पापादृष्टयुते गात्रे त्रणरोगादिक वदेत् ।।७८।। Stanza 78 .- There will be wounds or diseases in the limbs typified by the signs aspected by or

392 Prasna Marga

associated with malefic planets, according to the dictum kandruk, etc. NOTES Here the reference is to the sloka beginning from kandruk strotra in the V Chapter (24) in Brihat Jataka. For details refer to Prof. B. Suryanarain Rao's English trans- lation of Brihat Jataka.

चरोर्ध्वक्त्रशीर्षोदयादीनां लग्नगत्वतः । ककण्ठवरितिपूर्वाङ्गंग्रहणं न दगाणतः ।।७९।।

Stanza 79 .- If Lagna 'is movable, urdhwa- mukha and sirshodaya, the seat of disease will be above the neck. The drekkana classification given by Varahamihira refers only to horoscopes.

NOTES If Lagna is sthira, thiryaugmukha and ubhayodaya,the disease will be below neck and above waist. If Lagna is ubhaya, adhomukha and prishtodaya,it will be below waist.

राश्यंशयोश्वरादित्वसंवादे तु चरादिमिः। तदभावे न च ज्ञाते चांश ऊर्ध्वाननादिमि:।।८०।।

Stanza 80 .- If Rasi and Navamsa are similar i.e., chara, etc., then consider the limbs according to Rasi classification. If they differ, consider on the basis of urdhwamukha, etc.

Combinations for Diseases 393

NOTES If the ascendant in the Rasi and Navamsa are in movable signs, or in fixed signs or in common signs, take the Rasi classification of limbs. If on the other hand, the Rasi and Navamsa Lagnas fall in different categories-one in chara and the other in sthira, one in sthira and the other in dwiswabhava, etc., adopt the method given in stanza 6.

अत्यन्तविबलोर्कोङ्गग्रहणं कोदयादिमिः।

Stanza 81 .- The Sun becomes very weak in the last Drekkana of Virgo, in the first Drekkana of Libra and Libra Navamsa of any sign. If the Sun is weak, then see whether Lagna is sirshodaya, prishtodaya or ubhayodaya and classify the area of disease accordingly.

विलग्नादिषु कादयङ्गावन्यासोथ निगद्यते। कृष्णीये तु यथा ग्राह्यः स एव प्रश्नकर्मणि ॥८२।। Stanza 82 .- For purposes of Prasna, the allocation of organs to different houses beginning from Lagna as done in Krishneeya should be followed.

होरोत्तमाङ्गसंस्था दक्षिणवामावनागतातीतौ। कर्णाक्षिनासिकापुटकपोलहनवोथ वक्त्रान्ताः।।८३।।

394 Prasna Marga

ग्रीवांसभुजौ पार्श्व पृष्ठे हृदयोदरे कटिभान्त्या। नामिवस्तिगुदाण्डा मुष्का पूर्वादयो द्वौ द्ो।।८४।।

Stanzas 83 and 84 .- The expired and un- expired portions of Lagna represent the right and left sides of the head, the neck and navel. Two Bhavas each beginning from Lagna-1st in the invisible half and the other in the visible half indi- cate the right and left sides respectively of the other organs thus: the 2nd and 12th-ears, shoulders and sex organs; 3rd and 11th-eyes, sides and testicles; 4th and 10th-nostrils, back and thighs; 5th and 9th-cheeks and knees; 6th and 8th-chin, stomach and legs; and the un- expired and expired portions of the 7th-mouth, waist and feet.

NOTES These two stanzas are very suggestive. The human body is divided into three parts, viz., head, the region below the neck and above the waist, and the region below the waist. By the situation of a dustha in a particular place, one can locate the seat of disease in one of the three parts. After this has been done, the organs affected should be ascertained according to the allocation given in these stanzas. In the three regions, the right and left sides of the different organs are thus allocated.

Parts of the body Right side ruled Left side ruled Above neck Below neck and Below waist by by above waist

Head Neck Navel Lagna (un- Lagna (expired expired portion) (portion)

Ears Shoulders Sexual organs II XII

Combinations for Diseases 395 Eyes Sides Testicles III XI

Nostrils Chest Thighs IV

Cheeks Back Knees V IX

Chin Stomach Legs VI VIII

Mouth Waist Feet VII (expired VII (urexpired portion) portion)

396 Prasna Marga

कंडकश्रोत्रेति होरायां वराहमिहिरोदितः। योङ्गेषु भावविन्यामो ग्राह्य एव स जातके ।।८५॥

Stanza 85 .- The allocation of organs to different Bhavas by Varahamihira according to the sloka 'Kandruk srotra' should be considered as applying to horoscopy only.

NOTES In Chapter V, stanza 24, the great Mihira assigns different organs of the human body to the different signs of the zodiac. Here also the body is divided into three parts-above the neck, below the néck and above the waist, and below the waist. Organs in the left and right sides in each of these parts are assigned to Bhavas in the visible and invisible halves, but Drekkanas are considered in locating the particular region or part of the body. We are informed that Varaha Mihira's allocation is applicable to horoscopy only and not to Prasna.

रोगभेदानिति ज्ञात्वा चिकित्सामुचितां वदेव। तीव्रे कर्मविपाकोक्तप्रायश्चित्तं च शान्तये।७६।। Stanza 86 .- Having understood the nature of different types of diseases, suitable medical treat- ment should be recommended. If the disease is serious, remedial measures as suggested in Karma Vipaka of Sathyacharya, should be adopted. ॥। इति प्रश्नमार्गे द्वादशाध्यायः ।।

त्रयोदशाध्यायः

BEGINNING AND ENDING OF DISEASES

लग्नोदितोहुतश्रस्द्रो यावत्युडनि संस्थितः । तस्मात्तावति नक्षत्रे रोगारम्भम्ुदीरगेद् ॥ १ ॥

Stanza 1 .- The sickness will have commenced on the day ruled by the asterism arrived at by counting as many asterisms from the Moon's, as that of the Moon is removed from the asterism of Lagna.

NOTES The explanation is simple. Suppose the positions of Lagna and the Moon at the time of query are respec- tive by 16° Mesha and 12° Simha. This means Lagna is in the constellation of Bharani and the Moon is in the constellation of Makha. Counting from the constellation of Lagna (Bharani) to that of the Moon (Makha) we get 9. Counting this number from Makha (Moon's star) we get Jyeshta. The sickness will have commenced on the day (prior to the day of query) ruled by Jyeshta. Suppose when the query was put, say on 31st July 1978, the Lagna was in Aslesha and the Moon was in Mrigasira : Counting from Aslesha to Mrigasira we get 24. Counting 24 from Mrigasira we get Aswini. The illness commenced (before

398 Prasna Marga

the day of query) on a day ruled by Aswini which means 27th July 1978.

यद्वा मान्दिनवाशस्य द्वादशाशर्क्षगे विधौ। मान्दीन्दुयोगभे वैषु ग्राह्यं प्रष्टुरनिष्टभम् ॥२॥

Stanza 2 .- Either in the Nakshatras arrived by multiplying Mandi's longitude by 9 and 12 or in the Nakshatra corresponding to the sum of the longitudes of the Moon and Mandi, sickness might have commenced.

NOTES Suppose the longitude of Mandi is Cancer 9° (99°). Multiplying this by 9 and 12 we get 171° and 188° (after expunging multiples of 360°) respectively. 171° corres- ponds to Hasta and 188° corresponds to Swati. Taking the second part of the stanza : suppose the Moon's longi- tude is 108°. The sum of the longitudes of the Moon and Mandi would be 207° corresponding to Vishakha. There- fore the sickness might have commenced (prior to the day of Prasna) when the Moon was transiting Hastha, Swati or Visakha. It is also suggested that the 3rd (Vipat), 5th (Pratyak) and the 7th (Naidhana) stars from the above three may also be considered.

दूतवाक्याद्यवर्णोक्तराशिगेत्यन्तदोषदे। चन्द्रार्कगुरुमन्देषु रोगारम्भमुदीरयेद्॥ ३ ॥

Direction of Beginning of Dtsease 399

Stanza 3 .- Sickness might have commenced when the most unfavourable planet amongst the Moon, the Sun, Jupiter and Saturn transited the Rasi corresponding to the first letter in the communication brought by the messenger.

NOTES The first letter of the message, in case a messanger comes to put the question or the first letter of the question in case the querist personally comes, should be taken and the Rasi corresponding to this letter noted. The prediction must then be given that sickness commenced when the most unfavourable planet amongst the Sun, the Moon, Jupiter and Saturn transited this Rasi. In actual practice, it is difficult to apply this method. Saturn takes 23 years to transit a sign. If Saturn is the most malefic and he happened to transit the Rasi in question, then the time at which sickness commenced would spread over 2 years-a practical impossibility.

DIRECTION OF BEGINNING OF DISEASE

यदाशाभिमुखो रोगी दश्यते दूत एव वा। रोगारम्भणमेतस्यां दिशि प्रष्ुरुदीर्यताम् ॥४॥

Stanza 4 .- The direction towards which the sick man or messenger was found facing by the astrologer indicates the place where the querist had his first attack of illness.

400 Prasna Marga

एन्द्रीतो दिशि यावत्यां दूतः पृच्छति संस्थितः। यामे तत्समसंख्ये स्यात् प्रष्टुर्व्योघिसमुद्धवः ॥५।। Stanza 5 .- The number of the direction from which the messenger or the sick man put in bis first query to the astrologer, counted from the East, will give the time in terms of yamas when sickness began. NOTES Suppose the questioner or messneger put his query facing north-west or vayavya. Then from east to north- west counted in the order of east, south-east, south, south-west, west and north-west would be 6. This means 6 yamas beginning from sunrise which will be equivalent to 18 hours or midnight. It must be inferred that sickness actually began at midnight on the day already fixed according to previous stanzas.

यावन्तो व्याघिते सन्ति निमग्ननयना जनाः । व्याध्यारम्मेन्तिकस्था: स्युस्तावन्तः सदशाश्तैः ॥६॥ Stanza 6 .- The number of men found along with the sick man or messenger at the time of query indicates the number of persons attending the sick man during his illness. The nature of the people will also be similar.

Direction of Beginning of Diseases 401

रोगेशाश्रितराशौ तद्भुक्तभोक्तव्य भागतः । रोगस्य गतगन्तव्यकालाधिक्याल्पते वदेद्॥७॥ Stanza 7 .- According as the expired portion of the sign occupied by the lord of the 6th is less or more than half, the person's sickness will linger long or will be cured soon. NOTES This is an important stanza. The lord of the 6th occupies some Rasi. If the longitude of this planet is less than half Rasi, then the person will suffer for a long time. If the longitude traversed by the lord is more than half, the querist will have passed through the worst and the disease will be cured soon.

षष्ठाधिपे दिवावीये यद्वा षष्ठगते ग्रहे। दिवारम्भभ वृद्धिश्र रोगाणामन्यथा निशि॥८॥ Stanza 8 .- If the lord of the 6th or the planet occupying the 6th is a planet of diurnal strength then the sickness began during day-time. If it is a planet of nocturnal strength, then the attack was during night. NOTES The Moon, Mars and Saturn are nocturnal planets. The Sun, Jupiter and Venus are strong during the day. Mercury is always strong. 26

402 Prasna Marga

अरूढाद्भवने तु यावति गदस्थानाधिपः संस्थितो मासे तावति वाह्िभाखदुडुचारे वाथ रुग्जायते। यावत् प्रश्नभतोरिपाप्तमुड तावन्तं गदारम्भणे ब्रयात् कालमनेन भुक्तनवभागन्नं गदेशस्य वा ॥ ९ ॥

Stanza 9 .- The sickness commenced as many months back as are signified either by the (1) number of Signs passed by the lord of the 6th from Arudha Lagna; or by (2) the number of asterisms from Prasna asterism to that held by the lord of the 6th; or by (3) the number arrived at by multiplying (2) by the number of Navamsas gained by the lord of the 6th. NOTES Let us take an example where Lagna is Pisces, Arudha Lagna is Capricorn, lord of the 6th (Sun) is in Libra 6° in Chitta nakshtra and the Prasna nakshatra 1s Makha. (1) From Arudha Lagna, the lord of the 6th is in the 10th house. (2) From Prasna naksbatra (Makha) the lord of the 6th is in the 5th asterism (Chitta). (3) The lord of the 6th, viz., the Sun has gained 2 Navamsas in Libra. Multiplying 5-the number in (2)-by 2 we get 10. Thus the sickness must have commenced 10, 5 or 10 months prior to the day of Prasna. Here again it is by a consideration of the relative strengths of the planets and asterisms concerned that one of the the tbree alternatives is to be fixed. The above two slokas are from Kantabharanam.

Directions of Beginning of Diseases 403

पष्ठेशाश्रितराशिस्थे चन्द्रे वा रोगसम्भवः । शमनं च रुजां वाच्यं सुखेशाश्रितराशिगे॥१०।।

Stanza 10 .- The disease will have begun when the Moon transited the sign occupied by the lord of the 6th and recovery will begin when the Moon enters the sign occupied by the lord of the 4th.

लग्नस्याधिपतेश्च तस्य शशिनो वा पापयोगेक्षणं यत्राभूत्समये तदामयसमारम्भ: समादिश्यताम् । सौम्यानां युतिरीक्षणं च भविता तेषां त्रयाणां यदा रोगाणां शमनं तदाथ शमनारम्भस्तदेकान्वये॥११।।

Stanza 11 .- The disease will have commenc- ed when Lagna, lord of Lagna, or the Moon was afflicted last by malefics. When benefics associate or aspect any one of them, recovery will begin. When all the three get the association or aspect of good planets, the person will completely recover. NOTES The illness will have commenced or the disease will have set in when the Moon transited the sign occupied by the lord of the 6tb. When the Moon transits the Rasi occupied by the 4th lord, recovery or cure will take place.

404 Prasna Marga

In applying these principles, the astrologer must be very careful. First of all he must diagnose astrologically, 'the intensity or otherwise of the disease, whether it is curable or incurable and whether the querist has good longevity and then he must proceed on to find out when the illness commenced. In stanza 11, another method is given involving consideration of three factors. The disease will have commenced at the time of affliction of Lagna, lord of Lagna or the Moon by malefics. Here also, the astrologer must fall back on his power of judgement to infer the likely result when either two factors or all the factors had been afflicted. There may have been a slow beginning of the illness, gradually increasing, or suddenly flaring up. According to the next part of the stanza, when either Lagna, lord of Lagna or the Moon conjoined with benefics, the recovery wlll commence. When all the three factors are involved in association ,with or aspect of benefics, there will be full recovery or probably even sudden recovery.

लग्नोदितनवांशस्य द्वादशांशगराशिगे। मान्दिराशिमतिक्रान्ते वेन्दौ स्याच्छमनं रुजाम् ।१२।।

Stanza 12 .- When the Moon enters Lagna Rasi, Navamsa Rasi, or a Dwa lasamsa Rasi or the Rasi occupied by Gulika, the illness will subside.

Direction of Beginning of Diseases 405

अष्टमेन्दु पुरोधाय यदि चेद्व्यधिसम्भवः । अतियातेष्टमं राशिं शशाङ्के शमनं रुजाग् ॥१३॥

Stanza 13 .- If the sickness had begun in the asterisms preceding Ashtama Rasi from the radical Moon, then relief will be obtained after the lapse of the said Ashtama Rasi Nakshatras.

NOTES

Suppose Aries is Jammna Rasi. The 8th or Ashtma Rasi is Scorpio or Vrischika. Since it is made up of one quarter of Visakha, Anuradha and Jveshta, these are the Ashtma Rasi Nakshatras. If sickness began in an asterism previous to these three, then recovery takes place after the Moon's transit of these Nakshatras. In other words relief can be expected when the Moon enters Moola or the sign Sagittarius.

दुस्थखेटवशतो रुजागमं सुस्थखेटवशतः शमं वदेत्।

Stanza 14 .- The occurrence of disease should be predicted from dustha planets and the recovery should be foretold from sustha planets. Chanting of mantras, conducting 'dances', Bali Karma, administering medicines, worship of God and dhatuposhana will give relief.

406 Prasna Marga

दुस्थानामतिदोषदाश्रितगृहं प्राप्तेपु चन्द्रादिपु व्याध्यारम्भ इहातिदुस्थखगसम्बन्धीशकोपोद्भ्वः। सुस्थानामपि तद्वदिष्टतमखेटाघिष्टितक्षांश्रिते- ष्विन्द्वाद्येष तदीयदेवभजनाच्छान्तिश्र वाच्या रुजाम्

Stanza 15 .- When the Moon, the Sun and Jupiter transited the sign occupied by the most dustha planet, sickness might have commenced. The disease is brought about by the dissatisfaction of the deity indicated by the dustha concerned. When however these three planets enter the Rasi occupied by the most favourable planet, the symptoms of recovery can be seen. For recovery the aid of the appropriate deities governed by favourable planets should be sought.

NOTES According to this stanza, the cause of disease is the wrath or displeasure of the deity indicated by the worst dustha. The disease will have commenced when the Moon, the Sun or Jupiter entered the sign occupied by such a dustha. Similarly, the disease vill be cured when the three planets pass through the Rasi held by the most favourable sustha planet by invoking the deity indicated by the sustha planet concerned by appropriate worship, Bhajanas, etc. Elsewhere it has already been suggested

Recovery 407

that the Sun's deity is Sambhu, the Moon's Durga, etc. The above two slokas are from Anushtanapaddhati.

RECOVERY

वैश्वे सौम्ये च मासादुपरि तु वसुमब्रन्नसूयेषु पक्षाद्रोगी चित्राप्रचेतोयमहरिषु सुखं विन्दते रुद्रसंख्यात्। विंशादङ्को मघायां गुरुभगसूरसू,बुभ्निवेधस्सु भूभृत्- संख्यान्मूलाश्वियुक्ते हुतभुजि नवमान्मित्रपूष्णोस्तु कृच्छात्॥१६।। Stanza 16 .- If diseases begin in the asterisms, Uttarashadha and Mrigasira, recovery will be visible after one month; if they begin in Dhanishta, Hasta and Visakha, recovery will take place after 15 days; if in Chitta, Sata- bhisha, Bharani and Sravana, 11 days are required for recovery; if in Makha, 20 days; if in Pushyami, Uttara, Punarvasu, Uttarabhadra and Rohini, 7 days; if in Moola, Aswini, and Krithika, 9 days; if in Anuradha and Revati a very long time and the disease is difficult to be cured.

ज्येष्ठासमीरोरगरौद्रपूर्वा त्रयेषु न प्राणिति जातरोगः। छिद्रासमेतुतेषु सपापवा रेष्वाग्नेयवस्वन्तकवारुणेपु ।।१७।।

408 Prasna Marga

Stanza 17 .- If Jyeshta, Swati, Aslesha, Aridra, Pubba, Poorvashadha and Poorvabhadra happen to be the commencement asterisms, recovery is impossible. If Krittika, Dhanishta, Bharani and Satabhisha happen to fall on Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday and if chidra or riktha tithis also coincide, death may result. NOTES Chidra or Riktha tithis are 4th, 9th and 14th lunar days.

अष्टमीपर्वरिक्तासु पापवारे त्रिजन्मभे। गोमासाष्टमचन्द्रेषु रोगारम्भो मृतिप्रदः ॥१८।।

Stanza 18 .- If the disease commences on ashtami, parva days riktha tithi days, malefic week-days, or trijanma nakshatra days, or vipat, pratyak and naidhana nakshatra days, chandra- shtama days, the person will meet with death.

NOTES Trijanma nakshatras are the birth constellation, the 10th and 19th from it. The vipat, pratyak and naidhana nakshatras are the 3rd, the 5th and the 7th from the birth constellation. Malefic week days are Sunday, Tuesday and Saturday. Chandrashtama days mean the period when the Moon transits the 8th from his radical position. Disease should not commence on these days and on the

Recovery 409

4th, 9th and 14th lunar days (riktha tithis), New Moon day (parva) and on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. We have given here a combination of three Nakshatras, week- days and tithis. If the evil tithi, nakshatra and week- day-all the three combine, death will be certain. If tithis alone combine with the week days, the sick man will recover with great difficulty.

अर्कारूढेस्य धीमान्यपुवमे वा रुगागमः। यदि मृत्युर्भवेत्सार्कतारकोभयपार्श्वयोः ॥१९॥ त्रिषु त्रिषु च धीमान्यपुत्रपार्श्वगतोड्पु। रुग्वृद्धि: परिशीष्टेपु द्वादशसथ जीवति॥२०।।

Stanzas 19 and 20 .- If the illness starts on a day ruled by the constellation occupied by the Sun, or the 9th, 15th or 21st from it, there will be no recovery. If the stars are the three preceding and the three succeeding ones to that occupied by the Sun or the one previous to or the one next to the three already mentioned above, sickness will increase but there will be no death. In the remaining twelve constellations, there will be recovery. NOTES If a person falls ill on the days governed by the following constellations, he may not survive. (i) (a) The constellation occupied by the Sun 1

410 Prasna Marga

(b) The 9th, 15th and the 21st therefrom 3

(ii) Increase of sickness but no death under the Jollowing : The 26th, 27th, 28th, 2nd, 3rd and 4th from that held by the Sun 6

(iii) Recovery under the following :- The tithi owned and the one next to those mentioned in (i), that is, the 8th, 10th, 14th, 16th, 20th and 22nd from the one occupied by the Sun ... 6

Total 16

Here since the total number of constellations are 28, Abhijit is also considered. Suppose the Sun at the time a person puts a query is in the constellation of Makha :

Fatal constellations will be : (i) (a) Makha, Jyeshta, Satabhisha and Krittika.

Constellations denoting increase of illness but no .death will be: (ii) Punarvasu, Pushyami, Aslesha, Pubba, Uttara, and Hasta. Constellations denoting early recovery : (iii) Anuradha, Moola, Dhanishta, Poorva- bhadra, Bharani and Rohini. The allocation of constellations with reference to the Sun's constellation goes under the name of soola chakra.

Recovery 411

तांरावारतिथीनां मृतिदानां शूलचक्रभानां च। जन्मप्रभृतीनां वा मृतिर्ध्रवं सङ्गमे तु पश्चनाम् ॥२१।।

Stanza 21 .- We have considered so far certain asterisms, week days, lunar days, certain asterisms in soola chakra and certain nakshatras as reckoned from the birth constellation. If all these coincide, death is certain.

NOTES

In the earlier stanzas, it has been suggested that appearance of sickness on a day coincident with a certain malefic asterism, malefic tithi and malefic week day would prove fatal. In addition to these three,if the constel- lation on the day on which the illness started is the 3rd, 5th or 7th from Janma Nakshatra and it also happens to be one declared fatal according to soola chakra, death is certain.

रोगारम्भणतारकान्तगणने जन्मक्षतो या भवेत् संख्या तां त्रिगुणां हरेज्लधिमिः शेषैः फलानि करमात्। एकद्वित्रिचतुर्भिराशु मरणं मृत्यु: शनैर्जीवनं कृच्छाज्जीवनमप्रयत्नत इद प्राग्दादशाद्ाच्छिशोः ॥

412 Prasna Marga

Stanza 22 -Count from Janma Nakshatra to the Nakshatra on the day the sickness commenc- ed. Multiply this by 3. Divide the product by 4. According as the remainder is 1, 2, 3 or 4 respectively the sick child will die, will linger long and then die, will survive with great difficulty or recover very easily. This is applicable only to children below 12 years of age.

षष्ठेशे मन्दगतौ स्थिराश्रिते वा रुजां शनैः शमनम्। शीघ्रगतौ चरयाते शमनं रोगस् न चिरेण ।।२३।।

Stanza 23 .- If the lord of the 6th possesses slow motion or occupies a fixed sign, recovery will be very slow. If his speed is great or he occupies a movable sign, recovery will be rapid. NOTES It is implied that if the planet has medium motion or occupies a common sign, there will be neither too rapid nor too slow a recovery.

पापानामुदयश्च मध्यवसतिर्लग्नस्य लग्नेशितु- दौर्बल्यं कथितं द्वयं च हिमगोस्तच्चोभयं क्षीणता। रिप्फारातिमृतिष्वपूर्णहिमगोस्तत्र स्थितिश्रासतां केनाप्यामयदैर्ध्यमेपु बहुभिर्वक्तव्यमेतेंः किछ्ट॥२४॥

Recovery 413

Stanza 24 .- If Lagna is joined by or hemmed in between malefics; or lord of Lagna is weak or associated with or situated between malefics; or the Moon is similarly disposed; or the waning Moon occupies the 6th, 8th or 12th; or evil planets occupy the abovementioned places, the sickness of the person will linger long. If all these are found, he will not live.

प्रायश्चित्तं दुश्शमरोगशनाय तत्तदुदितमपि। कार्य सर्वेष्ववदत् स्वग्रन्धे सायणोस्य वचनमिदम् ।।२५।। Stanza 25 .- Cases where recovery is difficult, should be carefully looked into and the necessary remedial measures should be recommended as given by Sayanacharya in his famous work Karma Vipaka.

यथा कार्येषु सामग्री दृष्टादष्टोभयात्मिका। तथोक्ता रोगनाशेषु प्रायश्चित्तौषधात्मिका ॥२६।। Stanza 26 .- Drishta and Adrishta are the two important causes for everything. To bring about the cure of any diseases, prayaschitta and medical treatment should be resorted to. NOTES Generally speaking, we can find two reasons for everything. One that can be perceived by our senses

414 Prasna Marga

(drishta) and another that cannot be gauged by our our senses (adrishta). Punya (virtue) and Papa (vice) come under adrishta. For every disease, we have adrishta karma (unknown cause) and drishta karma (known cause). To bring about the cure of any disease, these two must be looked into. Remedial measures (prayaschitta) for the sins committed, and expert medical treatment for the disease, must be prescribed.

परिपूर्णतनुश्चन्द्रो लग्नोपगतो निरीक्षितो गुरुणा। गुरुशुकौ केन्द्रे वा पीडार्तस्तत्र सुखितः स्यात् ।२७॥ Stanza 27 .- The full Moo'n in Lagna aspected by Jupiter or Jupiter and Venus in Kendras, indicate disappearance of affliction, and recovery.

उपचयसंस्थश्रन्द्रः सौम्याः केन्द्रत्रिकोणधनमृतिगाः। लग्नं वा शुभदृष्टं सुखितस्तत्रातुरो वाच्यः॥।२८।।

Stanza 28 .- There will be recovery from sick- sickness if the Moon occupies Upachayas and benefic planets are in Kendras, Trikonas, the 2nd or 7th, or Lagna is aspected by benefics.

CAUSES OF DISEASES

जन्मान्तरकृतं पापं व्यधिरूपेण जायते। तच्छन्तिरौषधै दनिर्जपहोमार्चनादििः ॥२९।।

Causes of Diseases 415

Stanza 29 .- Diseases are the resultant of sins done in our past births. The remedial measures are medicines, gifts, japas, homas and divine worship.

रोगार्तानमिह तु बहुधा कल्प्यते रोगहेतु- रभूतावेशाद् ग्रहग तिवशाद्वातपित्तादिकोपाद्। एतत्तथ्यं त्रिविधमुधितं प्रायशः स्वीयपाप्या रोगोत्पत्तेर्भवति हि नृणां हेतुरेकस्त्रिधा स्यात् ॥३०।। Stanza 30 .- People ascribe all sorts of causes for diseases. Evil influences of Bhutas, the effects of planetary movements and the fury of the three doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha are perhaps these three causes. It must be noted that all these originate from one cause, viz., one's own sins.

दुष्टे चारे ग्रहाणां भवति तनुभृतां पीडनं दुर्ग्रहाणां जायन्ते तेन दोषत्रियचलनतस्तद्द्वा व्याधिभेदाः। सर्वेषामेव तेषां खलु निजदुरितं प्राक्तनं हेतुरेक: प्रायश्चित्तं च तत्तत्कथितमपि चिकित्सास्तु रोगोपशान्त्यै ।।३१।।

Stanza 31 .- When planets are in anishta place the appropriate 'spirits' stir up attacking

416 Prasna Marga

the body. The thridoshas, in their turn get agitated. And this external agitation is the disease. The primary cause is however one's own sins in past births. Hence in order to get rid of diseases, prayaschittas (palliatives) must be recomended along with the medical treatment.

पापभेदश्च तत्प्रायश्चित्तभेदाश्च विस्तरात्। सायणेनोदिताः कर्मविपाके ग्रन्थ आत्मनः ॥३२।।

Stanza 32 .- The different kinds of sins and the different kinds of palliatives (prayaschitta) to get rid of them have been elaborated by Sayana- charya in his famous treatise Karma Vipaka. NOTES

Different diseases are due to different types of sins. The primary causes and what appropriate remedial measures have to be adopted to tide over such sins have all been detailed by Sayanacharya.

REMEDIAL MEASURES

राजयक्षमादिरोगाणां ब्रह्महत्यादि कारणम्। वस्त्रदानादिकं प्रायश्चित्तं तदिगितीरिता ।।३३।।

Stanza 33 .- For consumption, the primary cause is the wilful murder of a Brahmin. The

Mrityunjaya Homa 417

appropriate remedy is gift of clothes after due repentance.

कर्मविपाकं वक्ष्याम्यध्यायेस्मिन् खलु त्रयोविशे। ज्ञात्वा तस्मात्तत्तत्प्रायश्चित्त विधीयतां रुक्षु ।।३४।। Stanza 34 .- In Chapter XXIII of this book, I am detailing about 'Karma Vipaka'. By going through it, appropriate remedial measures are to be prescribed.

औषधं पथ्यमाहारं तैलाभ्यंक्रं प्रतिभयम्। रोगिम्यः श्रद्धया दद्याद्रोगी रोगनिवृत्तये।।३५।।

Stanza 35 .- A sick man should respectfully cater to the needs of other sick men by providing them with free medical treatment, oil bath, diet, and other amenities. NOTES Free medical hospitals and free medical treatment should be given to sick men.

MRITYUNJAYA HOMA

मृत्युंञ्जयहवनं खलु सर्वरुजां शान्तये विधेयं स्याद्। सर्वेष्वपि होमेषु ब्राह्मणभुक्तिंस्तथा तथाप्वचः ॥३६।। 27

418 Prasna Marga

Stanza 36,-Mrityunjaya Homa is indeed the panacea for any type of disease. The feeding and worship of Brahmins as an auxiliary to all Homas is also recommended.

तीव्रज्वराभिचारादिशान्तिदं हवनं मतम् । मृत्युञ्जयाख्यमन्त्रेण नैव केवलमायुषं।।३७।। Stanza 37 .- Mrityunjaya Mantra gives relief to intermittent and all baneful influences of evil spirits and it even conquers death.

तीव्रज्वरे तीव्रतराभिचारे सोन्मोदके दाहगदे च मोहे। तनोति शान्ति नचिरेण होम: सञ्जीवनश्चाष्टसहस्त्र- संख्य:।।३८।। Stanza 38 .- Severe illness, dangerous abhi- charas, madness, fainting and fits and other diseases can all be got rid off by performing Mrityunjaya Japa for 8000 times.

शान्तिके पौष्टिके चापि वशीकरणकर्मणि। हुतसंख्यासमानं स्यादुत्तमं द्विजभोजनम् ॥३९॥ Stanza 39 .- Whenever this 'Homa' is per- formed a number of Brahmins equal to the number suggested for the Homa must be fed and worshipped.

Mrityunjaya Homa 419

NOTES

Stanzas 29 to 39 deal with the primary cause of diseases and the remedial measures to be adopted. Planets are in certain malefic places in an individual's horoscope. Each planet governs a certain deity or 'spirit'. This stirs up and attacks the tridoshas. Again the dosha governed by the afflicted planet is excited or gets agitated and this agitation expresses itself as a disease. Ultimately the cause of disease is traced to one's previcus Karma-the sin or wrong action committed by him. We are informed that the cause of such dosha and the appropriate remedy- medical and spiritual-have been discussed in Sayana's Karma Vipaka. Mantra Sastra is a recondite subject. There are Kshudra Mantras as well as Maha Mantras-the former capable of invoking certain spirits and generally used for destructive purposes and the latter requiring for their siddhi or control a highly disciplined and moral life and always used for the good of man. Mantras are indestru- tible forms of subtle vibrations capable of causing the greatest good or greatest evil. It is not advisable to have recourse to the performance of remedial measures of this type merely on bookish knowledge without the sound advice and guidance of an expert.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे त्रयोदशाध्यायः ॥

चतुर्दशाध्यायः

वाच्या: सुतादयो भावाः परोक्षस्यापि पृच्छतः। सुवाचास्ते कयो ज्ञात्वा यतस्तदपि कथ्यते ।१ ॥ Stanza 1 .- Sometimes it so happens that the questioner is away and wants to know about the 5th and other houses. In such a case, the age of the person must be fixed first and then the horoscope studied.

FIXING THE PERSON'S AGE

लग्नेशे क्षितिजे च बालहिमगौ नो पश्चसंवत्सराः पूर्णा: प्रष्टुरथेन्दुजेष्ट भृगुजे पटसंयुता वा दश। त्रिशदेवगुरौ रवौ दशगुणा शैलान पृद्धोडपे प्रष्टा वृद्धतरोर्कजे फणिनि वा चैषा तथैवोदये ।।२।।

Stanza 2 .- The person will be under five, eight, sixteen, thirty or seventy or over 70 years of age according as the lord of Lagna happens to be the infant Moon or Mars, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Sun or aged Moon, ano Saturn or Rahu respectively.

Fixing the Person's Age 421

NOTES The Moon is infant (Bala Chandra) till 5th lunar day of bright half. He is aged (Vriddha Chandra) from the 8th lunar day of the dark half till New Moon. Between 5th lunar day (Sukla Paksha) and the 23rd lunar day (Krishnashtami) the age can be calculated by the rule of proposition. The age of the person should be determined on the basis of the principles given in this stanza.

If Mars or the infant Moon owns Lagna (or occupies Lagna), then the age of the man will be below five years. If Mercury occupies or owns the Lagna, then the age is below 8. If Venus occupies or owns Lagna, the person is not yet 16 years old. If Jupiter is lord of Lagna or is posited in it, then he is below 30 years. If the Sun or aged Moon occupies Lagna, or if they are owned by them then the native is 70 years. If Saturn or Rahu occupy Lagna or it is owned by Saturn, then he is past 70 years in age.

Some construe the stanza thus: "If aged Moon is in Lagna or if Lagna is owned by aged Moon, predict that the man is past 70 years". According to this explanation, the correct age can be told by noting the nature of the Moon. If Cancer is Lagna, examine carefully the 'Avastha' (state) of the Moon and work out the age. Similarly, if the Moon occupies Lagna, examine his state and then predict. Readers should be able to decide for themselves the correct method of ascertaining the 'age' by experience. In our humble view, the age will be accord- ing to the years allotted to the different planets as in the stanza, when they own Lagna. So far as Rahu is concerned

422 Prasna Marga

his occupying the Lagna is important and denotes a very aged man.

SIGNIFICATIONS OF BHAVAS

देहस्य सौष्ठवं स्वास्थ्यं स्थितिः श्रेयो यशस्सुखम्। जयो वपुश्च तत्सवं चिन्तनीयं विलग्नतः ॥ ३ ॥ Stanza 3 .- From Lagna should be read everything about one's body, shape, health, strength, etc., welfare, fame, general happiness, and success in all undertakings.

भर्तव्यमखिलं वित्तं वाणी चक्षुश्च दक्षिणाम्। विद्याश्च विविधा ह्योतत्सवं चिन्त्यं द्वितीयतः ।४॥

Stanza 4 .- From the 2nd house should be ascertained one's family, wealth, speech, right eye and all kinds of knowledge.

धैर्य वीर्य च दुर्बुद्धि: सहोदरपराक्रमौ। दक्षकर्ण सहायौ च चिन्तनीयं तृतीयतः ।५।।

Stanza 5 .- The 3rd house rules courage, vitality, evil inclinations, brothers, right ear and help.

Fixing the Person's Age 423

माता सुहुन्मातुल भागिनेयौ क्षेत्रं सुखं वाहनमासनं च। लाळित्यमंभः शयनं च वृद्धि: पश्वादिकं जन्मगृहं चतुर्थात् ॥ ६ ।। Stanza 6 .- The 4th house signifies mother, relatives, uncle, nephew, house and property, happiness, vehicles, things to set on, popularity, water, beds and cots, general affluence, cattle and the house where one is born.

प्रज्ञा प्रतिभा मेधा विवेकशक्ति: पुरतनं पुण्यमू। मन्त्रामात्यतनूजा: पश्चमभात्सौमनस्यमपि चिन्त्यम् 1/11

Stanza 7 .- From the 5th house should be ascertained one's intelligence, prudence, memory, power of discrimination, merit earned in previous births, capacity to advise, ministers, children and condition of mind.

तस्कराराति विन्नाधिव्याधयश्च तनुक्षतिः। मरणं वारिशस्त्रेण चिन्तनीयं हि षष्ठतः ।।८।।

Stanza 8 .- The 6th house rules thieves, enemies, obstacles, mental worries, diseases, wounds and death due to enemies or weapons.

424 Prasna Marga

विवाहमदनालेकभार्याभर्तृसमागमाः । शय्यास्त्रीसद्नष्टार्थमैयुनान्यपि सप्तमाद् ।९॥ Stanza 9 .- The 7th house deals with marriage, sexual instincts,wife or husband, general relations with others, beds and cots, wife's birth place, lost or hidden things and sex relations.

सर्वप्राणाशो विपदोपवादो हेतुप्रदेशौ मरणस्य दास: । मठाधिकं वेश्म गदाश्च विन्रा विचिन्तनीया: पुनरष्टमेन ॥१·।। Stanza 10 .- The 8th house signifies ruin of everything, dangers, evil repute, cause and place of death, servants, out houses, chronic diseases and obstructions.

भाग्यधर्मदयापुण्यतपस्तातसुतात्मजाः। दानोपासनसौशील्यगुरवो नवमादमी॥११।। Stanza 11 .- The 9th house indicates luck or fortune, righteousness, kindness,merit,spirituality, father, grand children, charities, spiritual quest, good conduct or culture and preceptors.

देवालयनगरसभामार्गालयदाससर्वकर्माणि। आज्ञालम्बनमेवत्सर्व चिन्त्यं हि दशमेन ।१२।।

Fixing the Person's Age 425

Stanza 12 .- Places of worship, towns, council halls, wayside inns, servants, all actions, power to command and service under others come under the 10th house.

सर्वाभीष्टागामो ज्येष्ठभ्राता जाता निजात्मजाः। वामकर्णोर्थलाभाश चिन्त्या ह्योकादशेन ते ॥१३।। Stanza 13 .- The gain of everything desired, elder brother, sons already born, left ear and monetery gains should be read from the 11th house.

पापं व्ययश्च पतनं निरये वाममम्बकम् । स्थानभ्रंशश्च वैकल्यं द्वादशेन विचिन्तयेद् ।।१४।। Stanza 14 .- The 12th house signifies sinful actions, expenses, breaks and falls, left eye, loss of position or profession, and bodily injuries. NOTES These 12 stanzas (3 to 14) give the events or significa- tions ruled by the twelve different Bhavas. There is not much difference between allocation of different events to different Bhavas given in this work and the details fur- nished in other classical works.

चिन्त्यं चंक्रमणं लग्नाच्छयनं हि चतुर्थतः । ससमेनोपवेशश्च चिन्त्या दशमत स्थिति: ।।१५।।

425 Prasna Marga

Stanza 15 .- The Lagna, the 4th, the 7th and the 10th signify respectively various postures as 'walking', 'lying or resting', 'sitting' and 'standing'.

हिबुकेनाधः सलिलं नद्यागमनं तु सप्मे नैव। दशमेन वृष्टिपतनं ब्रयादुदयेन तत्रितयम् ॥१६।।

Stanza 16 .- The four cardinal houses begin- ning from the 4th, in regular order, signify water inside the earth, water in rivers, fall of rain and all these three together respectively.

NOTES These stanzas will be particularly useful in regard to predicting rainfall (Varsha Prasna) and digging of wells (Kupa Prasna). Water inside the earth indicates under- currents, wells and springs while water in rivers means the rise or flow of water. Fall of rain includes the fall of snow, hail, etc. Lagna rules over all the indications attributed to the 4th, 7th and 10th houses.

BHAVA SIGNIHCATIONS IN PRASNA CHART

विशेषा: सन्ति भावानां भुक्तिप्रश्ने च भूपतेः। ते चाप्यत्र विलिख्यन्ते लग्नाद्या द्वादश कमात् ।१७।। Stanza 17 .- The twelve Bhavas beginning from Lagna have certain peculiarities in Raja

Bhava Significations in Prasna Chart 427

Prasnas and Bhukti Prasnas. They are noted below.

मूर्तिरमत्रं भक्ष्यं भोज्यं भोजायितृभाव उपदेशः । सेचनमन्नं सहभुक्पूर्तिकथा शयनमपि विलग्नात् ।१८।।

Stanza 18 .- In Bhojana Prasna, the Lagna and other Bhavas signify respectively (1) the person concerned and his constitution, (2) the eating plate or leaf, (3) dishes, (4) the menu, (5) drinks such as milk, (6) mood of the person, (7) auxiliary dishes, (8) butter-milk, etc., (9) the persons who eat along with the person, (10) the quantity eaten, (11) the nature of the conversation at the time of eating, and (12) the rest taken after meal.

मूर्तिः कोशो धात्विनो वाहनानि मन्त्र: शत्रुरमार्ग आयुर्मनश्र। व्यापारश्च प्राप्तिरप्राप्तिरेवं लग्नाद्भावा भूमिभर्तुर्विचिन्त्याः

Stanza 19 .- In a Raja Prasna, Lagna and the twelve Bhavas signify respectively, (1) the physical body of the king, (2) the treasure, (3) the aimy (4) vehicles, (5) diplomacy, (6) the enemy, (7) communications, (8) longevity, (9) the mind

428 Prasna Marga

of the king, (10) trade and commerce, (11) the income and (12) expenditure. NOTES Stanzas 17 to 19 deal with questions relating to Bhukti (eating) and Raja (king or ruler). Whatever might have been the significance of questions pertaining to Bhukti or eating food, during the time of the author, we are of opinion that they are of no practical utility now except as a matter of curiosity. Stanza 19 is however highly important. It can be used in national or mundane astrology. In a monarchy,the first house signifies the king or ruler. In a democracy, it may signify the person of the President. The 2nd rules the treasury and the finances. The 3rd denotes not only the army but also weapons of offence and defence. From the 4th, we may study the royal or governmental para- phernalia. The 5th indicates diplomacy and counsels. The 7th has reference to communications. The 8th rules the term of life. The 9th denotes the working of the mind of the king or the ruler. The trade and commerce of the country should be read from the 10th house. The 11th or 12th of course denotes the revenue and the expenditure. The principles given in this stanza will be useful in making political forecasts.

EXTERNAL AND INTERNAL BHAVAS

पाह्याभ्यन्तरभावाद्द्विविधा भावा: समीरिता होते। बाह्याः खलु तत्वाद्या ज्ञेया: पुनरान्तरास्तु कल्याद्याः

External and Internal Bhavas 429

Stanza 20 .- Bhavas can be considered to have two significations, viz., external and internal. The external ones are as mentioned in the stanza Thanu, etc., and the internal ones are as given in the stanza Kala, etc.

NOTES Here is a new method of classification of Bhavas into bahya or external and antara or internal ones. The author is a great admirer and follower of Varahamihira. The verse thanukutumba sahotta, etc., given in Brihat Jataka explains the external things while in the same book the verse kalyaswa vikrama, etc., gives the internal attributes.

Bhava External Internal

I Thanu Kala

II Kutumba Swa III Sahotta Vikrama IV Baudhn Gruha

V Putra Pratibha VI Ari Kshata VII Patni Chitotta

VIII Marana Randhra IX Subha Guru

x Aspada Mana

XI Aya Bhava

XII Ripha Vyaya

430 Prasna Marga

The exact significance of the external and internal division of the Bhavas can be understood only after considerable experience in horoscopic interpretation. The 'internal' always refers to the abstract while the 'external' actually refers to concrete events. Thus the external significance of the 5th house is children, a physical entity while the internal significance is pratibha which is only an abstract quality meaning intelligence.

यद्यल्लग्नादिभिश्चिन्त्यं तत्तत्सवामि समागमे। आभ्यन्तरं भवेत्सर्व विज्ञेयं बाह्यामन्यथा।२१।।

Stanza 21 .- If the Bhavas are in any way connected with their lords, they indicate the internal attributes. Otherwise they refer only to the external aspects. NOTES For example, if the 5th house is conjoined with or aspected by the 5th lord, then it denotes the internal significance of the Bhava, viz., Pratibha. Otherwise, the external significance of the Bhava, viz., children, becomes prominent. Hence we should be careful in reading the Bhavas.

मूर्द्धास्यगळस्कध्ना हृदयोदरवस्तिदेशगुह्यानि। ऊरु जान् जंघे पादौ भावा: क्रमाद्विलग्नाद्याः ॥।२२।।

Stanza 22 .- Beginning from the Lagna, the twelve houses represent (1) head, (2) face,

External and Internal Bhavas 431

(3) neck, (4) shoulders, (5) heart, (6) stomach, (7) waist, (8) sexual organs, (9) thighs, (10) knees, (11) legs, and (12) feet, respectively.

NOTES

According to Varahamihira's classification, the 4th rules the heart, the 5th stomach, the 6th waist and the 7th lower stomach and the 11th buttocks.

अङ्गानां ह्रस्वादीर्घत्वं लग्नाद्याश्रितराशिभिः । वाच्यं तत्कथने प्राथ एवेदमुपयुज्यते ।।२३।

Stanza 23 .- The different limbs of the body will be long or short according as the Rasis repre- senting them are of long or short ascension.

NOTES If, for example, Lagna is a sign of long ascension, the head will be long. If it is short, then the head also will be small. In this way, the nature of the other limbs of the body as indicated by the other Bhavas may be noted.

लग्नराशि: स्वयं प्रष्टा तत्सम्बन्धिधनादयः । द्वितीयाद्यन्यभावास्तत् पुष्टिहानी शुभाशुभैः ॥२४॥

Stanza 24 .- The ascending sign is the 'querist' and the other Bhavas are the querist's wealth, brothers, etc. According as the Bhavas

432 Prasna Marga

are connected with benefics or malefics, they will be well or ill-disposed.

NOTES The significance of Bhavas suggested in natal astrology are here extended to Prasna or Horary astrology.

यो थो भाव: स्मिद्ष्टो युतो वा सौम्यैर्वा स्यात्तस्य तस्यामित्ृद्धि:। पापैरेवं तस्य भावस्य हानिर्विज्ञातव्या प्रश्नतो जम्नतो वा

Stanza 25 .- Whether in Prasna or horoscopy, such Bhavas as are associated with or aspected by their appropriate lords or benefics are said to thrive well. Those conjoined with or aspected by malefics will suffer annihilation. NOTES This stanza is from Shatpanchasika of Prithuyasas. Most principles of boroscopy so far as strength of Bhavas, etc., are concerned, are also applicable to Prasna charts. But the astrologer is expected to use much discretion in the manner of adapting rules of natal astrology to horary charts and vice versa.

यो थो भावा: प्रभुणा युक्तो दष्टेथवा भवेत् प्रश्ने। गुरुयुधशुक्ैरेवं वक्तव्यं तस्य तस्य शुभम्॥२६।।

How Bhavas are Ruined 433

यस्मिन् यस्मिन् भावे द्विद्वादशसप्तमे स्थिताः सौम्याः। तस्मिन् तस्मिन् वृद्धिर्दशमचतुर्थस्थितैस्तद्वद् ।।२७।। Stanzas 26 and 27 .- In Prasna, good results should be predicted in respect of Bhavas aspected by or conjoined with their respective lords or by Jupiter or Mercury or Venus. Bhavas, which have benefics in the 2nd, 7th and the 12th or 4th and 10th from them, can also be considered as favourable. NOTES If the lord, Jupiter, Mercury or Venus joins or aspects a Bhava, its indication will be fortified or promoted. Similarly good results will flow in respect of a Bhava which has benefics disposed in the 2nd, 7th and 12th or 4th and 11th from it. These are general principles of astrology. Bhavas generally get strengthened if subject to subhakaratariyoga or if Kendras are occupied by benefics.

How BHAVAS ARE RUINED

षष्ठाष्टमरिप्फेशा भावापरिपवः शुमाश भावहन:। भावतदीश्वरकारकदुर्बलता चास्ति तद्वादाप्तवचः ॥२८।। Stanza 28 .- The benefic nature of Bhavas is destroyed by their connection with the lords of 28

434 Prasna Marga

6th, 8th and 12th or with the natural foes of their respective lords. If the Bhava, or its lord or the Karaka is weak, then also the Bhava comes to grief. NOTES The lords of the 6th, 8th and 12th are always said to be evil. If a Bhava is associated with or aspected by the lord of the 6th, 8th or 12th, the Bhava gets afflicted. Similarly if a Bhava is occupied by a planet who is a natural enemy to the lord, then also the Bhava becomes afflicted. If the Bhava, the lord or Karaka is weak, then also, the Bhava suffers annihilation. In what manner, a Bhava suffers damage, has to'be ascertained by a careful balancing of the intensity of the affliction to which it is subject. If the 2nd Bhava is afflicted in the manner suggested in this stanza, then the native may become poor; or even though rich, he may get involved in debts.

षष्ठं द्वादशमष्टमं च सुनयो भावनानिष्टान् विदु- स्तन्नाथान्वितवीक्षिता तदाधिपा ये वा च भावा: स्वयम्। तत्नस्याथ् यदीश्वरास्त्रय इमे नश्यन्ति भावा नृणां जाता वा विफला विनष्टविकलास्तत्रातिकष्टोष्टमः ॥२९।। Stanza 29 .- Sages have declared that the 6th, 8th and 12th lords are malefic in nature. (1) Bhavas aspected by or associated with the lords

How Bhavas are Ruined 435

of these; (2) Bhavas, the lords of which are asso- ciated with or aspected by the lords of these houses; and (3) Bhavas whose lords occupy 6th, 8th or 12th: these three sets of houses get destroyed. Even if they remain, they are found to be impotent or distorted in effect.

NOTES

Lords of the 6th, 8th and 12th are evil. The following Bhavas become afflicted :

(1) Those that are aspected by the lords of 6th, 8th and 12th.

(2) Those that are occupied by the lords of 6th, 8th and 12th.

(3) Those whose lords are aspected by the lords of 6th, 8th and 12th.

(4) Those whose lords are associated with the lords of 6th, 8th and 12th.

Here the intensity of the affliction of a Bhava is directly proportional to the number of evil associations or aspects. In actual practice it is not advisable to apply these combinations literally. For purposes of illustration, the following example is given.

436 Prasna Marga

Mars Moon Rahu Jupiter

Sun Ketu

Ascendant Mars Venus Saturn

Lords of the 6th, 8th and 12th are Venus, the Moon and Mars. Theoretically the followiág houses become sterile or afflicted.

(1) Houses aspected by Venus, the Moon and Mars, viz., VII, II, IV, VII and VIII.

(2) Houses occupied by Venus, the Moon and Mars, viz., I, I and VIII.

(3) Houses whose lords are aspected by Venus, the Moon and Mars. Venus does not aspect any lord. Mars aspects Moon (lord of VIII)and Jupiter (lord of I and IV). The Moon aspects the Sun (lord of IX). Therefore Bhavas that get afflicted are VIII, I, IV and IX.

(4) Houses whose lords are associated with Venus, the Moon and Mars. Venus associates with Mars (owning V and XII): Mars associates with Venus (owning VI and XI); the Moon associates with Jupiter (owning I and IV).

How Bhavas are Ruined 437

lt must be noted that according to cannons of astrology, since some planets own two houses, the afflic- tion due to lordship of the 8th or the lordship of the 12th or the lordship of the 6th gets neutralised under certain conditions. Hence the necessity of not applying the principles verbatim. In this connection, reference may be made to my book How to Judge a Horoscope.

भावाधीशे च भावे सति बलरहिते च ग्रहे कारकाख्ये पापान्तस्े च पापैररिमिरपि समेतेक्षिते नान्याखेटैः।

वाच्या तद्भावहानिः स्फुटमिह भवति द्वित्रसंवादभावात् ।।३० ॥ Stanza 30 .- A Bhava should be considered to be weakened under the following circumstances: The said Bhava, its lord or the Karaka is weak; they are hemmed in between, or are combined with, or are aspected by malefic planets or their respective enemies; benefics do not associate with or aspect them; and the evil planets are disposed in the 4th, 8th, 12th or 5th or 9th; out of these various afflictions, even if two or three are present,the Bhava may be rendered extinct. NOTES The factors to be considered in judging whether a Bhava is strong or weak are the concerned Bhava, its lord

438 Prasna Marga

and the appropriate Karaka. There ara twentyone points of affliction, which are as follows :- The three factors being weak 333 3 subject to Papakarthari Yoga 3 are combined with or aspect- ed by malefics 3 are conjoined with their res- pective enemies 3 are not associated with or aspected by benefics 3 have evil planets disposed in 3 in the 4th, 8th and 12th. 3 evil planets are disposed in the 5th and 9th. 3

21

Of these 21 items of affliction, even if there are two or more, then the Bhava becomes weak or ruptured. Here again great care must be exercised in balancing the afflictions.

KARAKAS OR SIGNIFICATORS

तातश्रात्मप्रभावो द्यमणिरय मनोमातरौ शीतरश्मि- श्रोता सत्वं च भौमः क्षितिरपि वचनं ज्ञानमिन्दो- स्तनूज: । धीचित्पुत्रांगसौर्यं सुरगुरुरलाभोगयानानि शुक्को मृत्युर्व्याधिश्र दुःखं शनिरिद्द गढितो दासभृत्यादिकोपि

Karakas or Significators 439

Stanza 31 .- The Sun is karaka for father and spiritual influence ; the Moon for mother and the mind; Mars for brothers, landed property and courage; Mercury for speech and knowledge; Jupiter for intelligence, children, wisdom and bodily health; Venus for vehicles, wife and sense- pleasures; and Saturn for death, diseases, sorrow, servants and followers.

आत्मादयो गगनगैर्बलिमिर्बलवत्तर:। दुर्बलैर्दुर्बला ज्ञेया विपरीतं शने: समृतम् ॥३२॥ Stanza 32 .- If the different karakas such as the Sun, the Moon, etc., are strong, then the events attributed to them will be predominantly seen. If weak, these will exist only in name. With regard to Saturn, however, it is just the reverse. If he is strong, miseries and diseases decrease; if weak, these will be felt in abundance.

NOTES This is an important stanza. If the Karakas are strong, they promote their respective indications. But Saturn is an exception. If he is strong, he will lessen the indications.

अकांशे शौर्या स्वं तातश्राद्युदितसर्ववस्तूनाम्। कारकताकोदीनां विज्ञेयापोषणे तथा हनने॥३३॥

440 Prasna Marga

Stanza 33 .- Besides being karakas of events explained above, the various planets govern all the other indications attributed to them in the texts.

भाग्याद्यमीष्टभावेशोप्यश्युभो भावपुष्टिकृत्। "लग्नात्पुत्रे"ति पद्ये तद्वराइमिहिरोदितम् ॥३४। Stanza 34 .- The lords of the 9th and other favourable houses, though they may be malefies, nourish a Bhava. This point has been well emphasized by Varaha Mihira in the verse 'Lagnath puthre'. NOTES The relevant stanzas referred to in stanza 33 are Arkamsetrunakanaka urna bheshajadhai (see Chapter on Karmajeevadhay and Sauryamswamnakhadanta, etc., in Dasaphaladhyaya). Details of Karakatwas have also been given in my book Hindu Predictive Astrology.

शुमदानां प्रामल्ये शुभपौष्कल्यं पुनश्र दोषकृताम्। वैबल्ये दोषाणां पौष्कल्यं वदति तद्वदमियुक्तः ।।३५।। Stanza 35 .- Benefics if strong contribute good fully. Malefics if weak give evil in full.

पश्चमसंस्थ: पापः पुत्रविनाशं करोति बलहीनः। सौम्याः सुतं तिदत्ते बलसहितश्राष्टमाधिपं हित्वा ॥३६।।

Fruitification of Bhavas 441

Stanza 36 .- If a weak malefic occupies the 5th, there will be loss of children. If it is occupied by a strong benefic other than the lord of the 8th, there will be birth of children. NOTES Here by lord of the 8th is also implied the lords of the 6th and 12th.

FRUCTIFICATION OF BHAVAS

येन ग्रहेण यत्प्रोक्तमशुभं वा शुभं फलम्। बली चेत्स शुभं पूर्णमशुभं दुर्बलो यदि।३७।। Stanza 37 .- A planet, capable of giving rise to both bad and good, confers only good results if he is strong, only evil results if he is weak.

NOTES According to stanza 35, a strong benefic can contri- bute good results fully, but according to this stanza, a planet capable of producing both good and bad results- where no mention is made about the planet being a benefic or a malefic-can give rise to exclusively good or exclu- sively evil results according as the said planet is strong or weak.

भावेष्विष्टेषु वर्गोत्तमनिजरिपुमेष्वास्थितो यो ग्रहोसौ पूर्ण मध्यं तथाल्पं दिशति शुभफलं स्वोदितं पृच्छकानाम्।

442 Prasna Marga

भावेष्विष्टेतरेष्वप्य शुभमपि तथा पुष्टमध्याल्परूपं वैरिस्वीयांशवर्गोत्तमगत उदितं द्रव्यनाशामयाद्यम्

Stanza 38 .- A favourable planet is capable of conferring benefic results fully, moderately or feebly -- according as the Navamsa it occupies is Vargottama, own or friendly, or inimical. Similarly an unfavourable planet is capable of giving rise to malefic results-fully, moderately or feebly, according as the Navamsa he holds is inimical, own or friendly or Vargottama.

NOTES The good that a favourable planet can do, if he is in Vargottama Navamsa, is full. If he is in own Navamsa, the effects will be half. If he is in the Navamsa of his enemy, the results will be very little. The effect of a friendly Navamsa is similar to own Navamsa. An un- favourable planet, if he is in Vargottama brings in very little evil. If he is in his own or friendly Navamsa, the evil effects will be partly mixed. If he is in the Navamsa of his enemy, the evil that he does will be intense. Views differ as to whether in this stanza by the terms 'favourable' and 'unfavourable' are meant natural benefics and natural malefics or benefic lords and malefic lords. I am inclined to accept 'benefic' and 'malefic' lords. Suppose Leo is Lagna and the 5th house is occupied by Mars. Here Mars is a benefic lord. His position in the Navamsa suggests the

Fructification of Bhavas 443

good and bad results he can give pertaining to the Bhava he occupies. Here again when bandhu (friend) and ari (enemy) are mentioned, they refer to natural friends and natural enemies.

स्वामी कारकखेचरश्व बलिनौ यस्येष्टभावस्थितौ सम्पूर्णानुभवक्षमश्र नियतं भाव: स नृणां भवेत्। रिःफारातिमृतिस्थितौ च विषलौ यत्कारकाधीश्वरौ भावोयं नहि सम्भवेदपि नृर्णा कस्यानुभूतौ कथा ।३९।।

Stanza 39 .- If the lord and the Karaka are strong and occupy favourable houses, then the indications of the Bhava will be fully experienced. On the contrary if they are weak and occupy the 6th,8th or 12th, the results of the concerned Bhava will be negative, and as such, the question whether the native gets its influence need not be raised.

NOTES

Here the disposition of the lord and the Karaka in favourable and unfavourable houses should be reckoned from Lagna.

स्वोचाभीष्टगृहेषु कारकपती रन्ध्राद्यनिष्टस्थितौ यद्दावस्य स सम्भवेदविमलो नास्यानुभूतिर्नृणाम्।

444 Prasna Marga

नीचाद्याश्रयतो बलौ शुभतरे लाभादिभावे स्थितौ यद्दावाधिपकारकौ स विकलोप्यस्यानुभूतिर्भवेत् ॥४०।। Stanza 40 .- If the lord and Karaka are strong but occupy an unfavourable position, then though the effects of Bhava may be seen, the native will not enjoy them. On the contrary, if the lord and Karaka are weak but occupy favour- able positions, the effect will be experienced by the native however little it may be.

NOTES Strength here implies own, exaltation and friendly places. Unfavourable position means the 6th, 8th and 12th. By weakness is meant debilitation;'favourable posi- tions are the angles, trines and the 11th. When the Bhava is strong (by virtue of strength of the lord and Karaka), it implies existence of the indications of the Bhava. Weak- ness of the Bhava implies its extinction. When a Bhava exists and the lord and Karaka are weak, the native will not enjoy the results. On the contrary if the Bhava (that is the lord and Karaka) is weak but occupy favourable houses, the results of the Bhava, however feeble, will be experienced. Here we have to note that strength gives the Bhava its existence, and position gives its influence on the native.

नाथकारकयोरेको बलवानिष्टभावगः । अन्योन्यथेति मिश्रत्वेप्युक्तरीत्योद्यतां फलम्॥४१।

Frucitification of Bhavas 445

Stanza 41 .- Of the two, the lord of a Bhava and its Karaka, if one is strong and the other is weak, then the influence should be considered to be mixed in nature.

भावात्तदीश्वरे सुस्थे भावसम्पन्न चान्यथा। लग्नादनुभवश्चैवं चिन्त्यतामिति केचन ।।४२।।

Stanza 42 .- If the lord of a Bhava occupies a favourable house from it, then the effects of that Bhava will be full. If the lord occupies a favourable house from Lagna, the effects of the

of some. Bhava will be well experienced. This is the view

NOTES If the lord occupies an unfavourable house from it, the Bhava itself will be distorted. If the lord happens to occupy an unfavourable house from Lagna, the native will not experience the results in full. This is the opinion of some writers.

यस्य यस्य विलग्नेन सम्बन्धो लग्नपेन वा। दम्योगकेन्द्रगत्यादैः स स भावोनुभूयते ॥४३।। Stanza 43 .- Such Bhavas as have any relationship with Lagna or its lord, such as aspect, association, Kendra disposition, etc., will be surely experienced.

446 Prasna Marga

सौम्यानां व्ययमृत्युशत्रुसहजा नेष्टा अमीष्टाः परे। पापानाममिमातिसोदरभवा इष्टा अनिष्टाः परे। भावेष्वेषु हि सुख्यता तु वपुषो धर्मात्मजौ तत्समौ तेषु त्रिष्वधिकं शुभाशुभफलम् विद्यात् सतां चासताम् 118811 Stanza 44 .- Benefics in the 3rd, 6th, 8th and 12th become unfavourable. Malefics in the 3rd, 6th and 11th become favourable. The most important of all the houses is Lagoa. The 5th and the 9th houses are equally important. It is in these three Bhavas that benefics show their greatest good, and malefics their worst evil.

ताम्रहेमादिवस्तूनां स्वोक्तानां लाभदा अपि। रुक्प्रदत्वाततु रोगादिप्रश्नेनिष्टा रिपौ खराः।।४५।। Stanza 45 .- Malefic planets (in the 6th) confer all the articles governed by them. But the Bhava gets spoiled. In questions pertaining to diseases, an evil planet in the 6th house is harmful.

पुष्णन्ति शुभा भावान् मृर्त्यादीन् ध्रन्ति संस्थिताः पापा:। सौम्याः षष्ठेरिम्ाः सर्वे नेष्टा व्ययाष्मगाः ॥४६॥।

Favourable and Unfavourable Houses 447

Stanza 46 .- Benefics vitalise the houses. Malefics destroy them. Benefics in the 6th house destroy enemies and malefics increase them. All planets are harmful in the 8th and 12th. NOTES The stanza is clear and needs no clarification. Benefics strengthen the house they occupy. Malefics on the other hand spoil the Bhavas. Even in the 6th benefics destroy enemies and other significations of this house, viz., debts and enemies. Malefics produce harmfu! effects because they increase the 6th house indications. AUl planets-benefic or malefic-will give rise only to evil when they occupy the 8th and 12th houses. This above sloka is from Swalpajathakam.

दशाफलानि यान्युक्तान्यशुभानि वा। प्रश्नेपि तानि वाच्यानि दुःस्थे सुःस्थे च खेचरे।४७।। Stanza 47 .- The good and bad significations ascribed to different planets should be used when describing the effects of Dasas. In the matter of Prasna the inappropriate ones from the planetary situations in dustha and sustha places should be weeded out.

FAVOURABLE AND UNFAVOURABLE HOUSES

इष्टानिष्टगतत्वेन शुभाशुभफलप्रदे। प्रहे सत्यखिलं योज्यं संज्ञाध्यायसमीरितम्॥४८।

448 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 48 .- Planets give rise to favourable or unfavourable results according as they occupy ishta or anishta Bhavas. On the basis of samgna- dhyaya, the various effects should be inferred.

NOTES In samgnadhyaya or chapter on General Principles. planetary effects have been explained. It, for instance, the Sun is in an ishta Bhava, he indicates benefits from rulers, grace of lord Siva and acquisition of copper vessels etc. If he is in anishta Bhavas, then the Sun's indications would be wrath of the rulers, wrath of God, loss of copper vessels, illness etc., The results will happen in the Sun's Dasa.

WHEN BHAVAS ARE RUINED

मूर्त्याद्या निजरन्ध्रपेण शनिना वा स्युर्यदा संयुता स्वस्वारिव्ययरन्ध्रपापहृतयस्तत्स्यसय वा चेत्तदा। तत्तद्दावविपत्तिरस्ति नियमादेवं वराङ्गादिषु ब्रयादंघ्रियुगान्तिमेषु च वपुर्भागेषु रोगान् सुधीः॥४९।।

Stanza .- 49 .- When the lord of the 8th from a certain Bhava or Saturn transits the Bhava in question and when at the same time, the Dasa (or Bhukti) of the lord of 6, 8 or 12 operates, the Bhava concerned will come to grief. Similarly

Effects of Planets in Houses 449

diseases in the various parts of the body as signi- fied by the Bhava concerned can also be predicted.

NOTES In stanza 49, the time when a Bhava fructifies is given. Let us take an example The Lagna is Aquarius and the lord of the 4th Venus is in Leo. The lord of the 8th from the 4th is Jupiter. When this planet or Saturn transits the 4th : Taurus) and simultaneously the Dasa (or Bhukti) of the lord of the 6th (the Moon), 8th (Mercury) or the lord of the 12th (Saturn) operates, indications of the 4th Bhava should suffer. Under the same directional influences, the native may suffer from diseases pertaining to or in the organ signified by the 4th house, viz., chest or heart.

EFFECTS OF PLANETS IN HOUSES

लग्नाद्यैर्वाच्यमसत्सद्योगे सति फलं समुच्तित्य। सौकयार्थ प्रष्टः फलानिर्देशस्य कथ्यते तदनु ॥५०।। Stanza 50 .- The effects of various planets occupying different Bhavas will now be given to facilitate easy prediction.

पापे लग्नगते पराजयशिरोरुग्दुःखदुष्कीर्तयः

सौम्ये लग्नगते सुखस्थितिजयारोग्यार्थसम्पत्तयः कीर्तिस्थानविशेषलब्धिरिति विज्ञेयं फलं पृच्छतात्।५१।। 29

450 Prasna Marga

Stanza 51 .- If an evil planet occupies Lagna, there will be failure, diseases in the head, sorrows, dishonour. displacement, loss of money, pains all over the body, and discomfort in all ways. A benefic in Lagna gives general comfort, success, good health, financial prosperity, fame and pro- motions to higber positions.

पापे वित्तगते स्वपूर्वनिचितद्रव्यक्षयो वक्त्र- रुग्भर्तव्यामयदक्षिणांबकरुजो दुष्टोक्ति पात्रक्षती। सौम्ये वित्तगते पुरार्जितर्धनानामेव वृष्युद्भवः पात्रासिर्भरणीरयञ्जनसुखं प्रष्टेति याथात्फलम् ।।५२।। Stanza 52 .- A malefic in the 2nd house indi- cates loss of ancestral property, diseases in the face, sickness for the family members, diseases in the rigbt eye, scandals, and loss of vessels. A good planet brings in increase of family wealth and gains of vessels and family amity and happiness.

पापे भ्रातृगते सहायविगम: सोदर्यरोगादिक

सौम्ये भ्रातृगते सहोदरसहायारोग्यलाभािकं सद्बुद्वेरुदयश्च वैर्ययुतिरित्येतत्फलं पृच्छताम् ॥५३।

Effects of Planets in Houses 451

Stanza 53 .- A malefic in the 3rd house brings in misunderstanding with friends and people who help. Misfortunes to brothers, diseases in the chest, neck and right ear ; mental affliction, bad conduct and cowardice. A benefic indicates good conduct, courage, happiness to

health. brothers, increase or help from others and good

मातुर्मातुलभागिनेयसुहृदां गोवेश्मशय्यासन- क्षेत्राणामपि वाहनस्य च विपच्छद्देशरुक्चासुखम् कूपाद्यम्बुविदूषणं सुखगते पापे शुभे वाहनं क्षेत्रं गोशयनासनानि सुखमित्येषां हि लाभो भवेत् 114811 Stanza 54 .- A malefic in the 4th house causes distress to mother and maternal relations, loss of cattle, beds, cots, landed property and vehicles, heart trouble, general misery and dis- comfort due to impure water. A benefic in the 5th confers vehicles, lands, cattle, beds and gene- ral prosperity and health.

पापे पश्चमगेस दोषवशतो मौढ्यादिना रुङ्मृति- र्वापत्यस्व पुराणपुण्यविलयो वेद्या मनः कुण्ठता।

452 Prasna Marga

कोधामात्यरुगादिकं त्वथ शुभे पुत्रस्य लाभोथवा- रोग्यं धीप्रतिभोदयश्च मनसस्तुष्टिश्व पुण्योदयः॥५५॥। Stanza 55 .- If a malefic is in the 5th, afflicted by way of combustion, etc., there will be illness, death or danger to children ; leaving of Sanchita Karma, mental uneasiness, irritable temperament, and illness to the · native's advisers. If a benefic is in the 5th, there will be birth of children or good health, peace of mind, influence and increase of good deeds. NOTES If the malefic is afflicted considerably, then alone there will be death of children. Otherwise, they will be ill or meet with accidents; the native will lose the spirit of optimism and enthusiasm and will frequently lose his temper to the detriment of his own interests. A benefic gives quite the opposite results.

पापे षष्ठगते तु पष्ठभवनोक्ताङ्गे व्रणस्योद्भव- श्रोरारिव्यसनं च नाभिकाटिरुग्विन्रोद्द्वः कर्मसु। पापस्यास्य च दोषसम्भवगद: सौम्ये च शत्रुक्षयो रोगाणामभवः सतां तु शमनं प्रषुः समादिश्यताम्

Stanza 56 .- A malefic in the 6th denotes occurrence of a wound or ulcler in the organ

Etfects of Planets in Houses 453

ruling the 6th sign, fear from thieves and enemies, trouble in the waist and navel, obstacles in under- takings and ailments signified by the occupying planet. If a benefic planet is in the 6th, enemies will be vanquished, diseases will disappear and new ones do not sprout out.

NOTES If a benefic occupies the 6th house, remember that the nature of the house is improved though the planet is spoiled by its position.

पापे सप्तमगे कळत्रमरणं रोगो वियोगोस्य वा भर्तुर्वा गमनान्तराय उदियात्स्युर्भूत्रकृच्छ्ाण्यपि। सौम्ये सप्तमगे विवाहघटन नष्टार्थलाभ: सुदृग्भोगावाप्तिविदेशयानसुहृदायानादिकं स्यात् फलम् ।।५७॥ मदने पापसमेते दाहादिकमपि गृहस्य भार्यायाः । बलवच्छुभसंयुक्ते गृहकरणं सम्भवेच्च जायायाः ॥५८॥

Stanzas 57 and 58 .-- When malefics are in the 7th, there will be sickness or death to or separa- tion from the life-partner, disturbance to journeys and urinary troubles. Fire may break out in the wife's house.

454 Prasna Marga

Benefics in the 7tn indicate marriage, recovery of lost wealth, enjoyment and happiness and safe return of relations gone to foreign countries. The native is likely to build a good house.

NOTES Benefics in the 7th also indicate trips to foreign countries and safe return.

पापे रन्ध्रगते तु दासजनरुकप्रत्युद्दगुद्यामया लोकैर्विग्रहणं धनादिहरणं चोरैनृपैर्वारिमिः। रोगाश्वारुचिपूर्वका: स्युरपि च स्ाच्छकनीया मृतिः सौम्ये रन्धगते तु रोगविहो दैध्य तथा चायुबः ।५९।। अपवादो मठापत्तिरपि पापेष्टमस्थिते। मठाद्यालयसम्पत्ति मपि कुर्याच्छुमोत्रगः।।६०।। Stanzas 59 and 60 .- Malefics in the 8th bring illness to servants, obstacles in all works, diseases in the anus, quarrels with all; loss of wealth due to thieves, rulers or enemies ; loss of appetite for food, diseases and bad name. A benefic indica- tes freedom from disease, courage, longevity and facilities to acquire new houses, building mutts, etc. पापे धर्मस्थिते स्याद्गुरुजनपितपौत्रादिरुग्भाग्यहानि- र्वैद्यं धर्मेश्वरानुग्रहसुकृत तपोहानयो निष्कृपत्वम्।

Effects of Planets in Houses 455

सौम्ये धर्मस्थिते स्याद्गुरुपितमनसश्वेश्वराणां प्रसादो वृद्धिर्भाग्यस्य धर्मस्य च शुभतपसामार्द्रता पौत्रसौख्यम् ।।६१।। Stanza 61 .- In the 9th malefics are capable of causing illness to elders, father and grand- children ; ill luck, divine wrath, disinclination to acts of charity, gradual decline of hard earned merits, ruin of one's power of penance and hard- heartedness. Good planets bring in blessings from elders and parents, mental happiness, God's grace, increase of fortune, inclination to do good acts, increase of Tapas, humanitarian tendencies and happiness from grand-children.

पापे कर्मगते तु कर्मविहतिर्दुष्कीर्तिराज्ञाक्षति- दोसालम्बनयोर्विनाशनमपि स्यज्जानुरुकप्रोषणम्। सौम्ये पद्धतिमण्डपामरगृहाद्युत्पादनं कर्गणा माज्ञालम्बनयोश्च सिद्धिरपि दासावाह्िकीर्त्युद्रमौ ॥६२॥ Stanza 62 .- Malefics in the 10th denote failures in efforts, bad name, loss of respect, ruin to servants, breaks in profession, diseases in the ankle and exile. Benefics in the 10th, indicate construction of wayside inns, new roads, council

456 Prasna Marga

halls and temples; success in all attempts, increase of prestige and influence, rise in profes- sion and acquisition of servants.

पापे लामे स्थितवति सुतज्येष्ठयोरामयाद्यं जंघावामश्रवणरुगमुष्योक्तताम्रादिलाभः । सौम्ये दुःखप्रशमनसमस्तप्सितासयर्थलाभाः संज्ञाध्यायादिषु तदुदितस्यापि लाभागमाद्यम् ॥६३।। Stanza 63 .- When malefics occupy the 11th, there will be illness to elder brothers and sons, fresh ailments in the left ear and legs, and gain of articles (such ascopper mentioned in Brihat Jataka). Benefics indicate abatement of grief, accomplishment of desired objects, gain of fresh sources of wealth and material objects signified by the benefic planet or planets concerned.

पापे द्वादशगे तु दुर्व्ययपदअ्रंशाघ्रिवामाक्षि- रुकपाताः पापमतिप्रवृद्धमिति वक्तव्यं फलं पृच्छताम्। सौम्ये द्वादशगे व्ययो वितरणप्रायो न दुष्टव्ययः पापानामभवः सर्तां तु शमनं चेत्यादिकं स्यात्फलम्॥६४।। Stanza 64 .- Malefics occupying the 12th indicate squandering of money, fall from position,

The Effects of Gulika 457

troubles in the soles of the feet and the left eye, and falls due to carelessness and sinful actions. Benefics in the 12th cause heavy expenditure for good purposes, gradual termination of sinful actions and abatement of sickness.

सदसत्सामान्यफलम् लग्नादिष्विति पुनर्विशेषफलम्। शूरस्तब्धाद्युदितं होरायामिह विचिन्त्य वाच्यमिह 1184/1 Stanza 65 .- Thus far the effects of planets in the various Bhavas have been outlined in a gene- ral manner. For special effects, reference may be made to the stanza soorasthabdhadyuditam in Varaha Mihira's Hora Sastra.

THE EFFECTS OF GULIKA

होरायां नोदितं मान्देर्विलग्नादिस्थिते: फलम्। विलिख्यते तदप्यत्र दृष्टं ग्रन्थान्तरे क्वचित् ॥६६।। Stanza 66 .- The effects of Gulika in the various houses have not been given by Varaha Mihira They have been enumerated here as found in other treatises.

रोगी क्षताङ्गो गुळिके तनुस्थे निन्दाभिभाषी धनगे विवेष: ।

458 Prasna Marga

सोत्थं द्विषन् भ्रातृगते सशोर्थ: सुखादिहीन: सुखगेरि भीतः ॥६७॥ गुर्वादिनिन्दाकृदनात्मजः स्याच्शूली सुतस्थे रिपुगे निजद्विद्। विषक्षणो वंशविदूषणश्च कळत्रहन्ता मदगेतिकामः॥६८।। धीमान् बहुव्याधिरनायतायुर्विषाग्निशस्त्र्मृतिरष्टमस्थे। धर्मस्थिते धर्मतपोमनूनः खस्थे सुकीर्तिः परकार्यसक्त:

कुर्याच्च पौरुषयुतो धनवाहनार्थानैश्वर्यवान् भवगते बहुभृत्ययुक्त:। दुस्स्म्वांश्च कुनखी विकलो व्ययस्थे लग्नादिभावगत- मान्दिफलम् प्रदिष्टम्।।७०।। Stanzas 67 to 70 .- Gulika in Lagna-sickly body, suffering from sores and ailments; in the 2nd-untidy in dress, generally uses abusive language; in the 3rd-hates brothers, but valorous; in the 4th-generally unhappy and fear from enemies; in the 5th-no respect for elders and preceptors and deprived of issues; in the 6th- tendency to find fault with relatives ; in the 7th- affliction to wife, strong sex instinct; in the 8th- short life, chronic complaints, sharp intelligence,

Effects of Tertiary Planets 459

and death from poison, weapon or fire; in the 9th-irreligious and uncharitable; in the 10th- unsullied fame and inclination for social work ; in the 11th-greatness, prosperity and courage, wealth, attendants and servants; and in the 12th -- hideous dreams, diseases in the nails and loss of limbs.

लग्नादिगता वपुराद्युपचयहानी शुभाशुभा: कुर्युः। विपरीतं पष्ठमृतिद्वादशगा: कथितमिति हि सत्येन ।।७१॥ Stanza 71 .- Benefics nourish Bbavas while malefic planets destroy them. But in the 6th, 8th and 12th contrary results happen. This is the view of Satyacharya.

NOTES In the 6th, 8th and 12th benefics lessen the malefic effects while malefics aggravate the evil effects.

EFFECTS OF TERTJARY PLANETS

धूमादिपश्चदोषाणां विलग्नादिषु संस्थितौ । फलं यल्लिख्यते तच्च समं प्रश्ने च जातके ।७२।। Stanza 72 .- The results of the occupation of the various Bhavas by the Pancha doshas Dhuma,

460 Prasna Marga

etc., should be carefully looked into both in Prasna and horoscopy.

NOTES

The five doshas (or tertiary planets) are Dhuma, Vyatheepatha, Parivesha, Indrachapa and Kethu. Their situations or longitudes can be ascertained thus :

Dhuma = Sun's longitude+133° Vyatheepatha = 360° - Dhuma

Parivesha = 180° + Vyatheepatba Indrachapa = 360° - Parivesha

Kethu = Indracbapa+17°

The Sun = Kethu + 30.

It will be noted that by adding 30° to Kethu-this Kethu is evidently different from the Moon's descending node -the longitude of the Sun is obtained.

कृपे स्यात्पतनं तनौ यदि वचस्खालित्यमर्थे स्थितः पङ्गुभ्रातरि सोदर: सुरगृहं रक्षेत्सुखे मातुलः । कुद्ध: पश्चममेरिमे खलु भवेव्दयाघ्रेण दष्टो मुखे

याति भ्रष्टतया मदे तु निधने धूम: क्षतः शस्तरतः॥७३। धर्मे सवल्पतपाः खमेशनिहतिर्लांभे लभेतेतर- द्वेश्मापि प्रवसेव्द्ययेथ तनुगः स्योच्चेव्द्यतीपातकः।

Effects of Tertiary Planets 461

श्वित्री वाचि सकौशलः सहजमे गानी सुखेऽ्वागमो दुःखं पुत्रभवं सुतेऽरिभवने छिद्रावहोस्तेऽघनः।७४।। वेत्ता सर्वकला मृतौ तपसि भाग्योनौ नभस्यग्निभी- रलाभे भूपतिसत्कृतो व्ययगृहे भ्रष्टोथ सर्पान्मृतिः । लग्नस्थे परिवेषनाम्नि निधिकृत्स्वेभ्रान्तिमान् सोदरे बासो नात्मगृहे सुखे मनसि बद्धोन्तस्यचोरो रिपौ ।।७५॥ काणोसते क्षतिरायुधेन निधने गुर्वाद्यभक्तो गुरौ ह्योदार्य दशमे भवे तु जळवाग्दीर्घामयो द्वादशे।

बाधिर्थ वचसि द्विजन्मवधपूर्वाकृत्यकृद्विकमे ।७६।। वेश्मस्थे गणरक्ष्यहा मनासि वाग्भीमन्त्रवादावुभौ षछ्ठे शत्रुभयं मदेङ्गविकलो भार्यानुभूतिश्र नो। बद्ो भूरितराशया प्रकटयन् जाळ्यं चरेदष्टमे बन्धाद्वात्मजतो मृतिस्तपसि खे सवल्पांबरः शीघ्रभुक् 11७

Stanza 73 to 77 .- Dhuma in the first house indicates fall into a well; in the 2nd, indistinct speech ; in the 3rd, brother becomes lame; in the

462 Prasna Marga

4th, maternal uncle becomes the guardian of temple property ; in the 5th, irritable; in the 6th, injury from wild tigers; in the 7th, excommuni- cation ; in the 8th, injury by weapons; in the 9th, an atheist; in the 10th, death by lightning; in the 11th, acquisition of new residences; and in the 12th, going away from home. Vyatheepatha in the 1st indicates skin diseases; in the 2nd eloquence; in the 3rd, musical talents; in the 4th owns horses; in the 5th, affliction to children ; in the 6th, quarrels in the family; in the 7th, poverty; in the 8th 'learned in fine arts; in the 9th unlucky; in the 10th, danger from 'burns' or fire; in the 11th, favoured by rulers; and in the 12th, a bhrashta or fallen person. If Parivesha is in 1st house, there will be death from serpents ; in the 2nd, acquisition of treasures ; in the 3rd unsound mind; in the 4th, will not live in his own house; in the 5th incarcera- tion ; in the 6th, becomes a thief; in the 7th, loses one eye; in the 8th, danger from weapons; in the 9th, disrespectful towards elders; in the 10th, generous; in the 11th, poor in speech; and in the 12th, affected by chronic diseases.

Indrachapa in Lagna gives rheumatism; in the 2nd, deafness ; in the 3rd inclination to kill

Effects of Tertiary Planets 463

Brahmins; in the 4th, squandering public wealth; in the 5th, a magician and a coward; in the 6th, fear from foes; in the 7th, deformed limbs; in the 8th, a wanderer in quest of impossible things; in the 9th death through son or incarceration; in the 10th shabby dress and quick eating.

लामे भूरिपराक्रमश्र मृगयासक्तो व्यये प्रोपणं कोपाद्भमिपतेरश्रोदयगते केतौ विकेशोग्रतः । दौर्बल्यं गिरिसानुनासिकवचा वाग्भीश्र सोस्थेद्द्वयं वेश्मस्थे सुरमिः सदा हृदि नरः शूली व्धूर्युग्मसू:

Stanza 78 -If Indrachapa is in the 11th, the person will be valiant and a good hunter; and in the 12th,leaving native place through Government disfavour. Kethu in Lagoa makes one bald- headed ; in the 2nd, physical debility and speech through the nose; in the 3rd, highly sensitive and speaking through the nose; in the 4th, fond of perfumes and scents ; in the 5th, 'soola' disease (birth of twins in the case of women). NOTES Kethu in the 5th can give rise to "soola disease", heart trouble, weakness of the heart, etc. In regard to a female such a position indicates birth of twins.

464 Prasna Marga

अन्धो रुद्धमरुन्म्रियते परगेहेरौ मदे मोषणा- द्रन्ध्स्थे विषभोजनात्तपसि विक्रान्तम दुर्मृत्युभाक। वृक्षेणाभिहतो निपत्य तरुतो वा खे मृति प्राप्तुया- दाये शेवधिभाग्यये शयनसौख्याभावदुःखन्ययाः।७९।। Stanza 79 .- In the 6th Kethu makes one sand- blind and gives death through kapha diseases in a stranger's house; in the 7th, death while thieving; in the 8th, death by posion; in the 9th, performs wonderful deeds and dies in the end ; in the 10th, death by fall; in the 11th, gets treasure; and mines ; in the 12th, he will be sleepless, squanders money and meets with calamities in life.

लाभनाशादिकं सर्वभावानां यदिहोदितम्। कदा तत्सम्भवेदित्याकांक्षयां काल उच्यते ।८०॥

Stanza 80 .- Tbe nature and strength of the Bhavas, their completeness and incompletness and their progress and decay have been explained hitherto. The exact period, when the Bhavas fructify, will now be explained.

TIME WHEN BHAVAS FRUCTIFY

फलाप्तिः कल्प्यते येन तस्य कालोयनादिक: । तद्भुक्तांशकसंख्याभ्स्तत्सिद्धौ समुदीर्यताम्।८१॥

Effects of Tertiary Planets 465

Stanza 81 .- The time of fructification is to be known by multiplying the time-periods allot- ted to the different planets as Ayana, Kshana, etc., by the number of Navamsas gained by the planet in the Rasi. NOTES The time-periods allotted to different planets as per Brihat Jataka are: the Sun-Ayana (6 months); the Moon-Kshana (48 minutes): Mars-Vasara (one week); Mercury-Rithu (two months); Jupiter-Masa (one month), Venus-Ardha (a fortnight) and Saturn-Sama (one year).

लग्ने यावानुदेत्यंशस्तत्संख्याघ्नोयनादिकः । कालो वाच्योंशकेशस्य कार्ये वैरिजयादिके ॥८२। Stanza 82 .- The period indicated by the lord of Lagna Navamsa, multiplied by the number of Navamsas traversed by the said lord gives the time of fructification. NOTES Suppose the rising Navamsa is Leo. Its lord is the Sun. The period indicated by the lord is Ayana or 6 months. Suppose the Sun is in the 5th Navamsa. Then the event, say marriage, will happen within (5x6)=30 months.

लग्नाद्यावति भे पापस्तावत्य्देद्धि मासि वा। पक्षे क्षणेयने वतौं लग्नेशस्योचिते व्यथा।।८३।। 30

466 Prasna Marga

Stanza 83 .- The 'time' signified by the lord of Lagna multiplied by the number of Rasis intervening between the Lagna and the Rasi holding a malefic planet indicates the period of sorrow. NOTES Here, there is a certain ambiguity discernible. We are asked to multiply the 'time' ruled by the lord of Lagna by the number of signs intervening between the Lagna and the sign holding a malefic. Suppose there are two or three signs holding malefics. Waich is to be preferred? No light is thrown on this. Here we have to take recourse to commonsense. The sign holding tte most powerful malefic, must be considered. Suppose Lagna is Virgo and Mars is in the 3rd. The lord of Lagna is Mercury. The time signified by Mercury is 'a fortnight'. Multiply this by 3 (the number of signs Mars is removed from Lagna) and the evil effect will fructify within three fortnights. According to the same reasoning if instead of a male- fic, a benefic is concerned, within the appropriate time a benefic event can take place. This is the view of some.

अन्येनापि प्रकरेण कालो ग्रन्थान्तरोदितः । शुभाशुभफलप्राप्ती स च सम्प्रति लिख्यते॥८४।

Stanza 84 .- Other methods of fixing the 'time' of happening of the good and evil results are given elsewhere. They are herewith explained.

Effects of Tertiary Planets 467

भावाद्दावपतौ तु दृश्यद्ळगे तद्भावलाभोचिरा- त्तत्रादृश्यगते शनैरिति मिदाभावात्पुनस्तत्पतिः । राशौ यावति तत्समे तु दिवसे मासेथवा भावना थारुढालयगेथवा हिमकरे भावस्य लाभो भवेत् ।८५।। Stanza 85 .- If the lord of a house is in the visible hemisphere, the effects of the Bhava will be experienced very shortly. If the lord is in the invisible hemisphere, the results will happen very late. The time of happening corresponds to the period in months or days signified by the number of Rasis intervening between the Bhava concerned and the Rasi occupied by the lord of the said Bhava. Or the results may happen when the Moon next transits the sign occupied by the lord of the concerned Bhava. NOTES In this stanza, methods are given for ascertaining the period of happening of the results pertaining to a Bhava. If the lord of a Bhava is in the visible half of the horo- scope (7th to 12th houses), the Bhava results materialise very early. If the lord is in the invisible half (1st to 6th), the indications manifest rather late. The other method suggested is this. Find the number of Rasis separating the Bhava and the sign occupied by the lord. Here instructions are not clear as to when to predict ' days ' and when to predict 'months'. One has to fall back on one's

468 Prasna Marga

experience. It is to be assumed that if the concerned planet is in the visible half, the time reckoning should be in terms of days; if in the invisible half, in terms of months. The results of the Bhava can also happen when the Moon next transits the sign held by the lord of the Bhava concerned. Suppose in a Prasna chart, one wishes to know the time of marriage. The lord of the 7th Bhava (Sun).is in the 6th, i.e., in the invisible half. This means marriage will be delayed. The lord of the 7th Sun is separated from the 7th, by 12 sigos. Marriage may take place within 12 months. Or, the Moon will next transit the sign held by the lord of the 7th after about 24 days. The events may take place then. These are all clues for a clever astrologer to make predictions and he should fall back on his interpretative skill.

लग्नं वा फलदातृगेहमथवा तस्यो चर्भं वा यदा यायादिन्दुरिनोथवाथ फलदो वाच्यं तदा तत्फलम्। भूते वा समये भविष्यति यदा लग्नस्य पापन्वय- स्तत्कालेऽशुभमादिशेच्ुभसमायोगे शुभं पृच्छताम्

Stanza 86 .- When the Sun or the Moon or the effect-giving planet transits the Lagna, or the sign occupied by the effect-giving planet, or his exaltation sign, the indicated events happen. Whether in the past or in the future good and

Effects of Tertiary Planets 469

bad happenings coincide with the transit of Lagna by benefics and malefics respectively.

NOTES This stanza enables us to predict when good and bad will happen. By good is implied good health etc., while by evil is meant loss of wealth, illness, etc. Three points are considered, viz., (a) Lagna, (b) the sign occupied by the phaladatru or the effect-giving planet, (c) the exaltation sign of (d) The indicated event can happen when the Sun or the Moon or the phaladatru transits the above three points. Here an ambiguity arises. Would the Sun and the Moon, whenever they transit the three points, give uniform results or those indicated by the Phaladatru. One has only to guess. The 2nd part of tbe stanza is also open to two kinds of application. One is the happen- ing of good and bad results pertaining to an irdicated event-if we confine the malefics and benefics to the three lords mentioned in the first part of the stanza; or good and evil results in a general sense can happen if we inter- pret the term benefics and malefics rather widely. I leave it to my intelligent readers to take either interpretation in the light of their experience.

In the following chart suppose the phaladatru (effect giver)is Jupiter. Results in his Dasa have to be considered. Then when the Sun or the Moon or Jupiter transits Aquarius (Lagna), Scorpio (sign occupied by effect-giving planet) or Cancer (exaltation sign of phaladatru), the results indicated (by ownership, position etc.) will come to fruition. Out of these three planets here considered,

470 Prasna Marga

Rahu Moon Saturn

Ascendant Sun

Mars Mercury Venus

Jupiter Ketu

the Moon and the Sun are malefics. During the earlier transits of these planets over Aguarius, good and bad results (pertaining to Jupiter's indications) will have happened in the past and will happen in the future when they transit Lagna. Instead of assigning the terms male- fics or benefics to all the malefic and benefic planets, I would favour their restriction to the three factors consi- dered.

फल प्रदानसमयाः सर्वेषां व्योमचारिणाम्। विद्यन्ते केचनान्येपि लिख्यन्ते नेपि सम्प्रति।८७।। Stanza 87 .- There are other methods of noting the times of happening of events and they are given below.

काल: स्वर्क्षदिनर्तवो निजगृहस्थार्केन्दु जीवादयः सर्वेषां खदशानिजापहृतयः स्वीयोदयादावपि।

Effects of Tertiary Planets 471

खेटानां रविचन्द्रयोरयनमप्यत्रोत्तरं दक्षिणं दातुं स्याद्गुणदोषसम्भवफलं सर्वं बुधैरुह्यताम्॥८८॥

Stanza 88 .- They are (a) constellation days of the planets; (b) their week-days; (c) the Ritus of the planets; (d) the period when the Sun, the Moon, Jupiter transit the radical sign by the planet concerned ; (e) Dasa and Bhukti periods of the planets; (f) when the sign of a concerned planet rises or sets. The Sun signi- fies Uttarayana and the Moon Dakshinayana. The benefic and malefic results to be given by the planets should be intelligently inferred.

NOTES

Suppose Venus occupying Scorpio is the planet in question. He signifies certain events in respect of certain houses, e.g., marriage. Then the event can manifest (a) on a day ruled by Bharani, Poorvaphalguni and Poorvashadha; (b) on Friday; (c) during Vasanta Ritu or spring (March-April); (d) when the Sun or the Moon or Jupiter transit Scorpio: (e) in the Dasa (major period) and Bhukti (sub -period) of Venus and (f) when Scorpio rises or sets.

दशाफलादिनेष्टानिष्टादिना चोक्तमत्र यत्। संक्षेपेण तदेहेव विस्तरेण निगद्यते।८९।।

472 Prasna Marga

Stanza 89 .- The good and bad results likely to happen during the different Dasas have already been given briefly earlier. They will be elabo- rated now. NOTES Here the reference is to stanzas 47 and 48 in this chapter.

FAVOURABLE AND UNFAVOURABLE POSITIONS OF PLANETS.

मार्तण्डेनिष्टसंस्थे नृपशिवपितृकोपादि हत्कोडनेत्र- व्याध्यस्थिस्त्रवपित्तामयशि खिपशुभीतम्रनाशात्मपीडाः। इष्टस्थे सात्विकत्वं शिवपितृनृपतिप्रीतयस्ताम्रलाभ- आ्राथाप्तिः कंबळाध्वाटनतृणकनकाद्यौषधश्रोद्यम: स्यात्

Stanza 90 .- When the Sun occupies an un- favourable position,the native will suffer from the wrath of the rulers, God Siva, and his own father ; diseases in the heart, stomach and the eyes; troubles in the bones; diseases caused by Pitta, fear from quadrupeds and fire, destruction of copper vessels and decline of personal influ- ence. When the Sun is well disposed, the results will be: satwic nature, favour of Siva, father and rulers; acquisition of copper utensils;

Favourable and Unfavourable Positions of Planets 473

increase of wealth through journeys and by trade in woollen goods, grass, gold, leather and medicines.

कोपो राज्या जनन्या रुगपि कफसमीरास्त्ररुग्वीर्यवत्स्वै- वैरें कोपश्च दौर्गः कृषिधनयशसां संक्षयोनिष्टगेब्जे। राज्ीदुर्गा प्रसूनां मुदणुतिलगुळाच्छादनाज्यद्विजस्त्री- गोनौरत्रादितोर्थ: कृषिधनयशसां वृद्धिरिष्टस्थितेब्जे 118 8 11 Stanza 91 .- An unfavourable Moon will give during his Dasa: Queen's anger, dissatis- faction of the mother or her illness; diseases caused by Vatha, Pitta, and impure blood; ,en- mity with superiors and relatives; the fury of Durga, loss of crops, danger to life and ill fame. If favourable : grace of the Queen and Durga, satisfaction of the mother, gain of money by trading in ghee, sugar, clothes, etc., income by chanting mantras, by breeding cattle, and by marine traffic and by dealing in diamonds through the help of women and by increase of crops and increase of fame and riches.

प्रद्वेष: सोदराधैः क्षितिकनकविनाशोग्निचोरारिभीतिः

474 Prasna Marga

भौमेनिष्टस्थितेस्मिन् पुनरितरगते भूमिहेमायुधापि: सेनानितुष्टतास्याद्वनमरिवधतो भ्रातृतो भूपतेश्र ।।९२।। Stanza 92 .- An unfavourable Mars brings about during his Dasa: Misunderstandings with brothers, loss of landed property and gold, fear from fire, thieves and enemies ; wrath of God Subrahmanya and trouble from military personnel, ailments arising from impure blood, fever, eye diseases, loss of vessels and cuts and wounds in the body caused by weapons. If favourable, there will be acquisition of lánded property, gold, weapons, favour of the commander-in-chief, and grace of Lord Subrahmanya, profits from the loss of enemies, brothers and kings.

ज्ञेनिष्टस्थे तु कोपो हरियुवनृपयोर्दुर्वचस्तस्करार्ति-

अर्थो दौत्याच शिल्पैः स्तुतिरपि विदुषां वर्धनं बुद्धिवृतेः सिद्धिर्धर्मक्रियाणां लिपिगणितधनं गोपसूनुप्रसादः।।९३।। Stunra 93. If Mercury is unfavourable, the native suffers from the ire of God Vishnu, and the anger of the heir-apparent, abusive language and troubles from thieves. If favourable, there will be acquisition of horses, gold and lands,

Favourable and Unfovourable Positions of Planets 475

friends increase, wealth is acquired through the help of Brahmins and good advisers, sculptural skill and arbitration work. There will be increase of fame, performance of righteous deeds, earning by writing and figures and winning of the grace of God Vishnu.

जीवेनिष्टस्थिते स्याच्श्रवणतनयरुग्विप्रदेवप्रकोपो वैरें वा धर्महीनैः पुनरितरगते वर्धनं धीगुणानाम्। नित्यं यज्ञेन वेदाध्ययनमनुजपर्भृपतेश्रर्थलाभो लाभो दायादहेमांवरहयकरिणां विप्रदेवप्रसादः।।९४।। Stanza 94 .- Jupiter if unfavourable will indi- cate ear troubles, sickness to sons, anger of Gods and Brahmins and enmity with wicked people. If favourable : increase of clarity of mind, gain from religious practices, through persons well- versed in recitation of Vedas and through the favour of rulers. Gold, horses and elephants come in unsolicited. Brahmins and Gods bestow blessings.

शुक्रेनिष्टस्थिते स्त्रीजनगदवसनापायलक्ष्मीवियोगा: शोक: स्नेहान्निपादक्षितिपतिसचिव द्वेपगोरुप्यनाशः।

476 Prasna Marga

इष्टस्थे रूप्यवस्त्राभरणमणिनिधिस्त्रीविवाहार्थलाभः श्रद्धा गीते क्रियादिष्वपि च महिषगोमित्रमृष्टान्नलाभाः

Stunza 95 .- When Venus is unfavourable, there will be sickness to wife and other female relation.s, destruction of clothes and decrease of general prosperity ; sorrow caused by love, hatred towards Government servants and low born people come by turns, quadrupeds die in num- bers, and silverware is lost. When Venus is favourable, there will be gain of silver utensils, fine clothes, ornaments, diamonds, underground treasures, marriage, gain of money, increase in taste for music, and access to cattle and luxurious food.

मन्देनिष्टस्थिते स्यादनिलकफरुजाज्ञानचौर्यादिकोप- व्यापत्तन्द्रीश्रमा स्त्रीभृतकतनुभुवां भर्त्मन व्यङ्गतेर्ष्या। इष्टस्थे दुःखनाशः परिणतवनिताभोगदासायसां पूछश्रेणिग्रामाधिपत्यस्य च वरकमहिष्यादिकानां च लाभ: ॥९६।। Stanza 96 .- Saturn afflicted brings in disea- ses caused by wind and phlegm, ignorance, tendency to steal, etc., irritability, calamities,

Favourable and Unfavourable Positions of Planets 477

inertia, physical and mental debility, sarcasm of women and servants and children, dislocation of the limbs and jealousy. If Saturn is favourable, it denotes abatement of sorrows, association with old women, increase of servants and iron goods, headship of a town, acquisition of buffaloes and growth of varaka grain.

मन्दोदितं स्वाश्रितभेश्वरोक्तं स्व्रोंक्तं च राहोरथ भूभिजोक्तम्। ्ोक्तं निजाधिष्टितराशिपोक्तं केतोश्र वाच्यं त्रितयं फलानाम् ।।९७। Stanza 97 .- The effects of Rahu are similar to those of the lord of the Rasi occupied by him and of Saturn. Ketu will confer results similar to those of lord of the Rasi occupied by him and of Mars.

दोषा: केवलमेव चेद्विपदतीवाराद्विनिर्दिश्यतां प्रश्ने केवलमेव चेत्खलु गुणा वाच्यास्तथा सम्पदः । मिश्रत्वे गुणदोषयोरधिकतामालोच्य वार्च्यफलं यद्वा दोषजमेव भाग्यविकलाः प्रायोत्र लोका यतः

478 Prasna Marga

Stanza 98 .- On analysis, if it is found that the malefic influences alone predominate, then evil should be predicted. If benefic influence predominates, then good must be anticipated. If the influences are mixed, then prediction must be made according to the predominating factor.

निर्याणं विषमामयो निजजनापायो गृहप्ोषणं स्थानभ्रंशनरेन्द्रकोपजनविद्वंषार्थभूरिव्ययाः । चोरार्थपहृतिश्र मानविद्ृतिर्दुष्कीर्तिरेवंविधा वाच्या: स्युर्विपदो विलोक्य विहगान् भावांश्र दोषप्रदान् ॥।९९।। Stanza 99 .- Death, serious diseases, danger to near relatives, destruction of house, fall from position, wrath of the rulers, unpopularity and loss, waste of money and lands, theft of property, dishonour, ill fame, are the various evil effects. The exact nature of the evil should be determined by carefully studying the different Bhavas.

आरोग्यं नृपमाननं धनसमायानं सुहृत्संभवः साफल्यं सकलक्रियासु सततं चित्तप्रसादोदयः । स्थानप्राप्िजना नुरागसुयशःसन्तानलाभादयो वाच्या: स्युः खलु सम्पदोभिमतभावोपेतखेटोचिताः ॥।१००/l

Favourable and Unfavourable Positions of Planets 479

Stanza 100 .- Good health, royal or govern- mental favours, gain of money, reconciliation with friends, success in all enterprises, mental peace, elevation to high positions, popularity, fame, birth of children, are the good effects to be predicted by a consideration of the appropriate dispositions of planets. NOTES The stanzas giving the results of Dasas of planets, when they are favourable and unfavourable, are clear and need no explanation. But in stanzas 98 to 100 the good and bad effects have becn defined with the suggestion that planetary influences should be correctly weighed. If the afflictions predominate, then evil alone should be predic- ted. The person may, die, become seriously ill, or his relatives, children, wife, brothers etc., may suffer. His house may be set on fire. He may incur the displeasure of the authorities; he may lose his position and influence. His lands may be auctioned. His property may be stolen. He may face dishonour and his reputation may suffer. If the good influences predominate, disappearance of enemies, access to wealth, gain of property, increase in reputation, mental peace, etc., will be the indications. When the good and bad aspects are mixed up, the astrologer should use his discrimination and find out whether benefie or malefic aspects are in excess cr whether both are equally disposed and then arrive at a conclusion. In predicting the good or bad nature of the results, the appropriate Bhavas and planets should be consi-

480 Prasna Marga

dered. Thus if the Sun is the planet afflicted and he is in the 10th, the native suffers the displeasure of the rulers. The Sun in the 4th with a fiery planet may cause destruc- tion of the house due to fire. Similarly if the Sun is the elevated planet in the 10th, there will be rise in official life. If in Lagna with benefic, there will be good health. The task of the astrologer indeed becomes very arduous in balancing the different shades of planetary influences. It is here that he should bring to bear his keen powers of analysis and the gift of synthesis.

CATEGORIES OF KARMA

दढादढ क्रियाप्त्वाच्छुभाशुभफलं द्विधा। मनोवाक्कर्मजं तच त्रिविधं तद्दिदोच्यते॥१०१।। Stanza 101 .- The good and bad effects are the resultant of two kinds of Karma-Dridha and Adridha. These can again be subdivided into three types of action, viz., mental, verbal and physical. NOTES This stanza gives in a nutshell, the theory of Karma. Our actions are of two kinds, viz., Dridha (fixed) and Adridha (not fixed). Whether Dridha or Adridha- Karma may be due to speech (verbal), thought (mental) and bodily actions (physical). The gamut of Karma is all.comprehensive and it cannot be restricted to any particular sphere of thinking or activity.

Categories of Karma 481

It is not my purpose to elaborate the theory of Karma in these notes as I have already dealt with it in detail in my Astrology and Modern Thought. Reference may also be made to An Introduction to the Study of Astrology by my revered grandfather Prof. B. Suryanarain Rao.

छत्रारूढेन्दुलग्नव्ययरिपुमृतिगा: सद्ग्रहा: पापखेटा- स्तेषां केन्द्रत्रिकोणेष्वपि यदि कथयेद्दष्कृते सम्प्रवृद्धय् । कोपाद्देवस्य शापात्सितिविबुध भवाद्विद्विषां चामिचारा- लोकाक्रोशाच तत्स्यादद्ृढमपि दढं चेति वेद्यं द्विघैतत्

Stanza 102 .- The cause of one's evil Karma and whether it is Dridha or Adridha, is to be ascertained from the disposition of benefics in the 6th, 8th and 12th and of malefics in quadrants and trines. According as these dispositions are from Chathra Rasi, Arudha, Chandra or Lagna, the evil Karma is due to divine wrath, a Brahmin's curse, spells of enemies or people's hatred.

NOTES In this stanza, we are given a clue to find out the cause of one's bad Karma which has resulted in the man suffering from afflictions. If benefics occupy 6. 8 and 12 from Chathra Rasi and malefics occupy 1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 31

482 Prasna Marga

the sins and consequent evil effects are due to fury of Gods. If planets are found in the above places from Arudha at the time of Prasna, the sins are the outcome of Brahmin's curses. If planets occupy such places from the Moon at the time of Prasna, the sins are due to the incantation (mantraic) of enemies. If planets are found in the above mentioned places from the rising sign, the sins and the consequent evil effects are due to people's hatred. These bad actions may be either deliberate or done out of ignorance or both combined. Here the reference is mainly on Prasna Chart. But we can apply the princi- ples to radical horoscopes also

चेतोवाक्कर्मजं तद्विविधमपि विधोस्तत्र होरादिवर्गे तिष्ठन् खेट: प्रददयाद्ढफलमदढं भाखतो गोचरस्थे। खेटे पुण्यस्य पाक: पुनरितरगते कर्मणोन्यस्य वेद्य- शित्तादये तत्त्रिके यद्विबलखरयुतं तेन दोषानुभूतिः ॥१०३॥। Stanza 103 .- The nature of the evil Karma will be Dridha or Adhridha according as the indicative planet is in the house of the Moon or the Sun. When planets are favourably placed, they indicate fruition of good Karma, otherwise that of evil Karma. The mental, verbal or bodily nature of the Karma is revealed by the position

Categories of Karma 483

house. of a malefic planet in the 5th, 2nd or 10th

NOTES Man suffers from misfortunes in the shape of loss of wealth, humaliation, loss of name, death of kith and kin. diseases,etc., as a result of evil Karma done in his previous life. This Karma is either Dridha-intentional and deli- berate or Aridha accidental or unintentional. In either case the consequence is felt. Whether Dridha or Adridha, the Karma can again be divided into three categories-kayaka, arising from bodily actions such as causing physical injury,etc.,manasika-arising from mental actions-entertaining evil thought and wishing others evil, and vachaka or due to verbal actions-indulging in abusive and filthy language, etc.Benefics in the 6th, 8th and 12th and malefics in trines and quadrants-these planets can be called as indicators-denote that the troubles are due to evil Karma. If these dispositions are from Chakra Rasi, the Karma will be due to God's wrath. Here by God are also meant persons hell in reverence such as parents, preceptors and elders. Suppose one deliberately insults or assaults one's parents or elders. Here the nature of Karma is Dhridha, Vachaka and Dridha kayaka. The same is the case when the person harbours evil thoughts. The Karma is Dridha manasika. If on the other hand, one uses impolite language towards an elder through . ignorance or slip of tongue or accidentally inflicts physical injury, the nature of Karma is Adridha manasika and Adridha kayaka. The aggrieved party feels pain and this rebounds on the perpetrator of the Karma. Similarly if

484 Prasna Marga

the benefics are in the above places from Arudha, the evil Karma will be due to a Brahmin's curse. If from Chandra Lagna, the sins are due to black-magic indulged in by enemies. If from Lagna, people's hatred will be the cause. If the indicator is in the Moon's sign or hora, it is Dridha karma-sins deliberately committed. If the indi- cator is in the house of the Sun, the sins are ignorantly or accidentally got. Similarly planets favourably placed, i.e., benefics in quadrants and trines and malefics in the 6th. 8th and 12th, indicate merit derived from good deeds. If a weak malefic is in the 5th, the sins may be considered as the outcome of mental actions. If he is in the 2nd, they are the results of his words, cruel and unwanted. If he is in the 10th, they are the fruits of his bodily actions.

Venus Ketu Mercury Saturn

Mars

Ascendant Rahu Moon Jupiter Sun, CR.

In the illustration given herewith, Chakra Rasi (CR) is Libra. The three benefics Venus, Mercury and Jupiter are in the 6, 8 and 12 respectively. Malefics are in Kendras. Therefore the person's misfortunes are the result of evil Karma which in turn is due to the wrath of

Catagories of Karma 485

divinity or persons held in equal esteem. Let us assume that the majority of planets occupy Chandra Hora. The Karma is Dridha that is deliberatejy committed. Saturn aspects the 2nd and 10th. The Karma is Kayaka-born out of bodily actions, i. e., the native must have delibera- tely attacked his parents, men equal to God, preceptors, etc. Some suggest that Chandra and Surya Vargas should be considered instead of thei houses. When malefics are in 3, 6, 8 and 12 from Lagna, from Chandra Lagna, Arudha, etc., then the intensity of the evil Karma gets proportionately increased. If some planets indicate Dridha and some Adridha, here also a certain delicate balancing is called for.

चित्ते वाचि च कर्मणि त्रिषु खरोपेतेषु तैश्र त्रिभि- र्जायन्ते दुरितानि कर्म सशुभं सासच्च चेतो वच:। यद्यत्र क्रियमाणकर्मसु मनःखेदाद्विरानिष्टया पापश्रेतसि वाक्च खं च शुभयुक्चेत्कर्म चाश्रद्धया

118-81

तद्दोषस्तनयापदेधिकतरः पापः परं वाचि चेत्सौम्याः कर्मणि मानसे च दुरितं वाग्दोषतो जायते। तद्दोषोधिकमर्थहाथ रिपुनीचर्क्षे च मौढये खरा- स्तुङ्गस्वर्क्षसुहृद्ग्रहेष्वपि शुभा दोषे गुणे चाधिकाः ।१०५॥।

486 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 104 and 105 .- If malefics occupy the 2nd, 5th and 10th houses, evil Karma would have emanated from all the three-thought, word and deed. If malefics occupy only the 2nd and 5th while benefics occupy the 10th, we have to con- clude that when we do any work we do it unwil- lingly, complaining bitterly. If malefics occupy the 5th house while good planets are in. the 2nd and 10th, we do our duties carelessly or indiffer- rently without proper attention. Careless actions generally bring in loss of children. If malefics occupy the 2nd, while benefics join the 5th and 10th houses, the evil has issued out of 'words'. This brings about loss of money. If these male- fics are in debilitation or occupy inimical places or comust, they cause intense evil. If benefics are in exaltation, in own or friendly houses, the good they give will also be great.On the contrary, if malefics are exalted and if benefics are debili- tated, their effects will be little.

IMPRISONMENT AND CAPTIVITY

सूर्यात्सक्तमधर्मघीष्वशुभमे पापौ पितुर्बन्धदौ कार्यादावृणतश्ञ बन्धनमिनप्रावल्यदौर्बल्यतः।

Imprisonment and Captivity 487

सूर्यस्यर्षवशाच्च दूरसविधाद्यूह्यं नवांशैरपि स्याद्योगोयमिदं स्वकारकवशाद्योज्यं सुतादिष्वपि ॥१०६।। Stanza 106-If from the Sun two malefics occupy the 7th, 9th and 5th houses which happen to be owned by evil planets, then the father of the questioner is in prison. If the Sun is strong, prison-life is due to some action not liked by the King. If he is weak, it is due to debts. The place of incarceration will be far off, near or midway according as the Sun is in a movable, fixed or common sign. The same principle can be applied to mother, son, brothers, etc., by sub- stituting the appropriate karaka. Navamsa also can be taken into consideration.

कृत्वा लग्नं रवेः स्थाने प्रपुर्बन्धोत्र कथ्यताम्। लग्ने चरस्थिरद्वन्द्वे बन्धो दूरान्तिकाध्वसु ॥१०७।। Stanza 107. - By substituting Lagna for the Sun, the questioner's own imprisonment will have to be predicted. If Lagna is movable, jail will be far off; if it is fixed, it will be near and if it is common, it will be midway.

वराहमिहिरेणापि खवहोरायां सभीरितम्। लक्षणं बन्धनस्यथ तदप्यत्र विलिख्यते ॥१०८।।

488 Prasna Marga

Stanza 108. -Varahamihira, in his Brihat Jataka, has touched upon this topic and that has also been noted here.

व्ययधनसुतधर्मगैरसौम्यैर्भवनसमाननिबन्धना विकल्प्या।

।१०९। Stanza 109 .- If malefics occupy the 12th, 2nd, 5th and 9th from Lagna, or if Lagna Drek- kana happening to be Sarpa, Nigala or Pasa, is aspected by powerful malefics, the native suffers imprisonment. The nature of jail life corresponds to the nature of Lagna.

NOTES Either malefics should occupy the 12th, 2nd, 5th and 9th or Lagna falling in the Drekkana of Sarpa, Nigala or Pasa, should be aspected by malefics to cause imprison- ment. The nature of the place of incarceration will be in accordance with the nature of the signs where the afflicted planets are situated. In these days of democracy, even when criminals can lead comfortable lives in jails, the last part of the stanza should be applied with great care.

वेश्याहेतुऋणेन वाव्ययगते पापे धनस्थे पुनर्बन्धो राजकृतोस्थ दूषणवशात्पुत्रस्थिते कथ्यताम्।

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तद्वेतुर्नवमस्थिते पितृनिमित्तोयं यथा बध्यते मेषादि: खलु लग्नगो भुवि तथा पाशादिभिः पृच्छकः

Stanza 110 .- One's incarceration will be due to chronic debts or dancing girls; treason; son or father; according as the evil planets occupy the 12th, 2nd, 5th or 9th. The person will be 'bound' by rope, chain, etc., according to the nature of the Lagna Rasi.

NOTES If evil planets occupy all the places mentioned in this stanza, then the strongest must be taken as indicating the cause of imprisonment. Aries rules ram, Taurus oxen, etc. If Aries or Taurus is Lagna, the man will be bound by rope. If Leo, by chains, etc.

सौरद्रेकाणे वा भुजङ्गपरिवेष्टितेथवा लग्ने। शशिसौराभ्यां दृष्टे बन्धनमिह वाच्यमादेशे ॥१११॥ Stanza 111 .- If Lagna falls either in the Drekkana of Saturn or is a Sarpa Drekkana, and is aspected by the Moon and Saturn, then the subject will be imprisoned.

NOTES This verse is from Krishneeya. Saturn's Drekkanas are the last ones of Taurus and Gemini, the 2nd of Virgo

490 Prasna Marga

and Libra, the 1st of Makara and Kumbha and Surya Drekkanas are the middle of Aries,the first of Leo and the third of Sagittarius.

पापक्षेत्रेषु यमे त्रिकोणचतुरश्रसप्तमेषु गते। ऋरैर्निरीक्ष्यमाणे बन्धोस्तीत्यादिशोत्क्षिप्रम् ।११२।। Stanza 112 .- If Saturn occupies the 5th, 9th, 4th, 8th or 7th identical with a malefic owned Rasi and is aspected by malefics, one suffers prison life. NOTES Malefic-owned Rasis are Aries, Leo, Scorpio, Capri- corn and Aquarias. If Saturn occupies any of these signs and is aspected by malefics, incarceration is indicated. But here one should be careful to see in which place the afflictions occur as from Lagna and the Moon.

अचिरेण चरे मोक्षः स्थिरभे मोक्षस्तु दीर्घकालेन। द्विशरीरगते सौरे मध्यमकालेन मोक्ष: स्यात् ॥११३॥ Stanza 113 .- If Saturn occupies a movable sign, the person will be liberated from prison soon ; if a fixed sign, he suffers a long-term of imprisonment; and if in a common sign, the period will be neither very long nor very short.

असतामशुभफलानां भेद: प्रोक्तस्तथैव सौम्यानाम्। भेदोभीष्टफलानामपि कृष्णीये विलिख्यते सोपि।११४।।

Imprisonment and Captivity 491

Stanza 114 .- The general effects of the planets whether good or bad, have been detailed before. But the particular effects of the planets have not been given. They are noted in Krishneeya which are reproduced herewith for the benefit of the readers.

भौमो रोगं कुरुते भोगं शुक्रस्त्वरोगतां सौम्यः। सौरो मरणं दिनकृन्नाशं चिरजीवनं जीवः ॥११५।। Stanza 115 .- Mars is capable of causing sick- ness ; Mercury, good health; Venus, enjoyment; Saturn, death; the Sun, loss or destruction ; and Jupiter long life. NOTES Here the ascribed results happen provided the evil planets are unfavourably situated and benefics favourably disposed.

दूनस्थौ कुजभानुजौ खलु रुजे स्यातां तयो: कस्यचि- द्योगोन्यस्य मदस्थितिश्र मृतये रिप्फोर्थसंस्थौ च तौ। पापः स्युश्चतुरश्रगाश्र मृतिदाः प्रोक्तं त्विदं चिन्तनं भावानां तदधीशकारकविहृङ्गनां लयाणामपि ॥११६॥

Stanza 116 .- Mars and Saturn in the 7th cause sickness. If one is in Lagna and the other

492 Prasna Marga

in the 7th, or if they are in the 2nd and 12th or if malefics occupy the 4th and 8th, there will be death. These principles should be applied to the Bhava, the lord and the Karaka.

NOTES These stanzas are capable of any number of interpre- tations. Mars and Saturn in the 7th cause sickness. It may be 7th from Lagna, or from Lagna lord or from Lagna Karaka. Extending the same principles : If Mars is in the 7th (Kalatrabhava) and Saturn is in the 7th from 7th (Lagna) or vice versa or if Mars is in the 8th (2nd from 7th) or 6th (12th from 7th) or if these malefic dispositions obtain from the 7th lord or from Venus, death of the wife may be predicted. In actual practice, all malefics may be considered and not merely Mars and Saturn.

QUARRELS AND MISUNDERSTANDINGS

चन्द्रे पापयुतेथवा भृगुसुते कामेथवा वेश्मनि स्त्रीभिः स्यात्कलहोऽथ बन्धुकलहः पापे भवेद्धन्धुगे। मातृक्लेशकरो शुभोस्तसुखगः सौम्येस्तगे बन्धुगः पापश्रेदवलावशात्खजननीं प्रषाधिकं पीडयेद् ।।११७।। Stanza 117 .- If the Moon or Venus in asso- ciation with malefics is in the 7th or 4th house, there will be quarrels with women. If a malefic occupies the 4th house, the native quarrels with

Visible and Invisible Hemispheres 493

relatives. If malefics occupy the 4th and 7th, mother will suffer from troubles. If a benefic is in the 7th and a malefic in the 4th house, the person ill-treats the mother.

VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE HEMISPHERES

विद्यादश्यार्धमास्थानमददश्यं विजनस्थलम्। लग्नाधिपः स्थितो यत्र तद्वासी पृच्छको भवेत् ॥११८।। Stanza 118 .- Visible hemisphere indicates a crowded place; invisible hemisphere denotes a lonely retreat. According as the lord of Lagna is in the visible hemisphere, the person lives in a crowded spot or in a lonely place.

NOTES The visible half of the zodiac are the six houses coun- ted from Lagna via the 10th. The remaining six belong to the invisible half.

एवं धनादिभावानां स्पष्टतां च निगूढताम्। विद्यादीशैः प्रकाशत्वमपि सूर्येन्दुयोगतः ।११९।। Stanza 119 .- This principle can be applied to other Bhavas also, so that the open or hidden nature of their significations can be detected. Similarly the association of the Sun and the

494 Prasna Marga

Moon reveals the true, i e., the internal or exter- nal nature of the Bhavas.

अदृश्यार्थस्थितेस्तैशे प्रष्टः स्याद्गूढकामता । स्पष्टकामो भवेत्प्रष्टा द्यूनेशे दृश्यभागगे ॥१२०॥ Stanza 120 .- For example, if the 7th lord is in the invisible half, the querist's sensual desires will be hidden. If the lord is in the visible hemi- sphere, his desires will be quite open and known to all.

शुभोशुभक्षे जीण संस्कृतादिभ्यां यदीरितम्। तत्सवं सर्वभावेषु योजनीयं हि युक्तितः ॥१२१।। Stanza 121 .- Benefic planets, benefic Rasis confer a cultured and fair bride. With regard to all Bhavas, all these factors have to be carefully considered.

।। इति प्रश्नमार्गे चतुर्दशाध्यायः ।

पश्चदशाध्याय:

देवैर्वा धर्मदेवैः फणिपितगृरुभिब्राह्मणैः प्रेतभूतैः पीडा या स्यात्कृता सा तदनु भवति या दग्भवा वाग्भवा वा। या स्याद्भूयो विषोत्था पुनरिह रिपुभिया कृता सा च तासां हेतुभापि क्रमेण प्रतिविधिरपि च प्रोच्यते पृच्छकानाम्

Stanza 1 .- The miseries of men are due to the wrath of Devas, Dharma-devas, serpents, parents, preceptors, Brahmins, Pretas, and Bhutas. They are eleven in number. They are also due to evil eye, curses, the evil acts directed by enemies and other afflictions. Causes and remedies for such miseries are given for the benefit of the querist. NOTES The commentator gives the following causes as the reason why men suffer. (a) The anger of the gods, (b) the wrath of Dharma devas, (c) the fury of the serpent- god, (d) the dissatisfaction of the manes, (e) curses of seniors and preceptors, (f) curses of Brahmins, and

496 Prasna Marga

(g) troubles caused by ghosts and those resulting as a reaction of wounding words and expression, poison and abichara.

FAVOURABLE AND UNFAVOURABLE KARMA

दैवानुकूल्यं प्रतिकूलतां वा विचार्य सत्यां प्रतिकूलतायाम् । तदानुकूल्याय विधिर्विधेयो यतस्ततः सम्प्रति कथ्यते तत् ।।२।। Stanza 2 .- Whether one's past Karma is favourable or unfavourable and in what manner it expresses itself, should be carefully divined by the astrologer. NOTES Here the term deva means the Karma or destiny factor. What we cannot explain by known causes, falls under Daiva or the Karmic factor. e.f., पूर्वजन्मकृतं कर्म तद्दैवमिति कथ्यते। The causes of Karma-whether caused by wrath of deities, or the curses of parents, etc., have already been given elsewhere.

सर्वेश्वराणां घिषणेस्ति नित्यं सान्निध्यमस्माद्विषणोनुकूले। प्रायोनुकूलास्सकलाश्र देवास्तत्प्रातिकूल्ये सति नानुकूला:

Favourable and Unfavourable Karma 497

Stanza 3 .- Jupiter represents tbe one supreme divinity. If he is favourable, all deities will favour the native. If he is not favourable, all the deities will be unfavourable.

अर्क: शंभुरुदाहृतोखिलगृहेष्वर्को यदि द्वन्द्वभे द्रेकाणे प्रथमे गृहोत्र कथितो विभ्नेश्वरो मध्यमे। दुर्गा शीतकरो बली स विवल: काळी स एवाबल- श्रामुण्डीप्रमुखास्तमोगुणजुषो भौमालयस्थ्रो यदि॥ ४॥ Stanza 4 .- The Sun irrespective of the sign he is in, represents Siva. He also stands for Subrahmanya or Ganapati according as he occu- pies the 1st or 2nd Drekkana of a common sign. The Moon if strong stands for Durga; if weak, represents Bhadrakali ; and if in addition to being weak he occupies a martian sign, denotes Chamundi with dark attributes. NOTES Here the different deities (causing good or evil Karma) rule the fortunes and misfortunes of men : Planet Condition Deity The Sun In all signs God Siva The Sun 1st drekkana of a com- God Subrahmanya mon sign 32

498 Prasna Marga

Planets Condition Deity

The Sun 2nd Drekkana of a com- God Ganesha mon sign The Moon Strong Durga The Moon Weak Bhadrakali The Moon Weak and in martian The darker aspects signs of Chamundi

Raktheswari, Raktha Chamundi, etc., fall under the cate- gory of ' dark aspects'.

कुमारो भैरवादि्वा स्वाश्रितर्क्षवशान्कुजः । चामुण्डीभद्रकाळ्याद्याः स चेद्युग्मसमाश्रितः ॥५॥

Stanza 5 .- Mars in odd signs denotes the deities Subrahmanya, Bhairava, etc. In even signs, the deities signified are Chamundi, Bhadra- kali etc. NOTES Subrahmanya is implied only when the odd sign is a satwic one. Other odd signs signify Bhairava, Chandra- kesha, etc. Similarly with reference to even signs, the aggressive or passive nature of the deity depends upon the satwic, rajasik or thamasik nature of the even sign in which Mars is placed. Satwic signs : Leo, Sagittarius, Cancer and Pisces. Rajasic signs: Gemini, Libra, Taurus and Virgo.

Afflictions Due to Deity 499

Thamasic signs: Aries, Aquarius, Scorpio and Capricorn.

AFFLICTIONS DUE TO DEITY

श्रीरामाद्यवतारविष्णुरितरक्षेत्रेषु चन्द्रात्मजो व्यन्त्यत्यंशगतः स्थिरे तु भवने यद्येष गोपालकः : तर्यंशेन्त्द्येत्र स विण्णुरेव हि पुनर्जीवो महाविष्णुर- प्युक्तोयंह्याखिलेश्वरोत् तु मिदा ज्ञेया ग्रहर्षान्वयात् ।।६।। Stanza 6 .- Mercury in movable and com- mon signs governs Avataras of Vishnu. If he occupies the first and the second Drekkanas of fixed signs, he indicates Sri Krishna. If he occupies the third Drekkana of the same, he stands for Vishnu in general. Jupiter represents Vishnu. As he governs divinity in general, his nature can be understood from the sign he occupies and from the planets he associates with. NOTES

For example, if Mercury occupies Leo or joins with the Sun or has any Varga connections with the Sun, he governs Siva. If he has any connections with the Moon, he stands for Durga. If he is connected with Mars, he stands for Subrahmanya and so on.

500 Prasna Marga

अन्नपूर्णेश्वरी लक्ष्मीर्यक्षी वा भृगुनन्दन:। मन्दश्शास्त्रादिकं दैवं राहुः सर्वगण: स्मृतः।।७॥ Stanza 7 .- Venus signifies Annapoorneswari, Lakshmi and Yakshi. Saturn rules Sastha and Kiratha and Rahu symbolises the 'serpent god'. NOTES Venus in own house signifies Annapoorna; in the house of a benefic, Laksbmi and in an evil house Yakshi; or in Satwika signs Annapoorna, in Rajasa signs Lakshmi and in Tamasa signs Yakshi.' In odd signs with male planets, Sukra signifies Ganapati.

बाधकाधीश्वरास्सन्तो यदि सूर्यादिखेचराः । देवतानां निजोक्तानां पीडां ब्रयुरनिष्टगाः ।।८।। Stanza 8 .- When planets owning 'houses of harm' (badha) occupy unfavourable places, they cause affliction appropriate to the deity ruled by them. NOTES Houses of harm are given in stanzes 110 and 111. Unfavourable houses are 6, 8, 12; and 3 also according to some writers.

कोपस्य कारणं कोपशमनाय प्रतिक्किया। देवतानां ग्रहारूढस्थानभेदादथोच्यते।९॥

Afflictions Due to Deity 501

Stanza 9 .- The reasons for the 'wrath' of the deities and the remedies for alleviating them can be known by the positions of planets in various houses.

सूर्यादीनां ग्रहाणां व्ययभवनगतः पापखेटो यदि स्या- त्वोक्तानां देवतानां वुपि विकलता डुण्डुभस्पर्शनं स्याद्। संयोगे मान्दिराह्वोरथ रविजयुतौ जीर्णता वाशुचिर्वा योगे भौमस्य रक्षाविहतिरभिहिता रक्षकसवान्तभेदात्

Stanza 10 .- A malefic in the 12th from the Sun and other planets, signifying the wrath of deities, suggests disfigurement of the idol of the said deity. Gulika or Rahu, conjoining the anger- signifying planets, denotes the idol is polluted by the contact of Dundubha. Saturn's association reveals that the idol or temple or both have become worn out and polluted. Martian asso- ciation indicates that the deity is not well looked after by the temple-guardians owing to dissensions amongst themselves.

502 Prasna Marga

लग्नस्थे पापयुक्ते सति खल विहगे बिम्बदोषोत् वाच्यो चिंबं मिन्नं हि तस्मिन् धरणितनुभुवा अुद्धिरेवान्य- खेटैः । बिंबं तत्र प्रदेयं भवति खल मुदे खेचरेंथालयस्थे जीण वेश्मालयं तन्नवमथ कुरुतां दीयतां वान्यवेश्म ।।११॥ Stanza 11 .- If the above mentioned planet occupies Lagna and joins with an evil planet, the idol is not in proper order. If the evil planet is Mars, the idol is broken; if Saturn and other evil planets, it is dirty and polluted. If the angry planet in conjunction with an evil one occupies the 4th house, the temple is a very old one and requires repairs. NOTES Here Lagna and the 4th house should also be 'houses of harm'. 'Not in proper order' implies cracks or uncleanliness. If the idol is broken, it is to be changed. If it is unclean, purificatory ceremonies have to beper- formed.

PALLIATIVES FOR AFFLICTIONS

नृत्तं दूनगते कुजार्कगृहगे खेटे प्रदीपः स्मृतः शुक्रेन्द्वालयगे तु पायसमपि क्षीरं धृतं वा पुनः ।

Palliatives for Afflictions 503

बौधे चन्दनमार्यमन्दिरगते माला प्रसूनानि वा मन्दर्क्षे खल भूषणानि वसनं तत्तन्मुदे दीयताम् ।।१२।।

Stanza 12 .- When the angry-planet is in the 7th house, the palliative is divine dance. If he occupies the signs of Mars and the Sun, illumina- tion must be arranged; in those of the Moon or Venus, offering of milk, ghee and payasa; Jupi- ter, anointment with sandal paste; and Saturn, offering of ornaments and dress.

NOTES

If the 'angry planet' is in the 7th house, one should engage the performance of 'divine dance'; in the houses of the Sun and Mars, arrange 'illumination'; in the signs of the Moon or Venus, offer milk, ghee and payasa(sweetened rice or other grain preparation) as oblations. If he is in the house of Mercury, anoint the idol with sandalwood paste. If he happens to be in the house of Jupiter, adorn the idol with garlands of flowers and worship with sacred flowers. If he is in the house of Saturn, offer ornaments and dress.

रन्ध्रगे कर्मसंस्थे च पूजा वा बलिकर्म वा। गीतं वाद्यं च रिप्फस्थे तत्तत्प्रीत्यै प्रदीयताम् ॥१३। Stanza 13 .-- If the Badhaka planet is in the 8th or 10th house, perform puja or bestow Bali

504 Prasna Marga

Karmas. If he is in the 12th, employ music and sounding of drums. NOTES Worship to the deity should be offered both in the morning and in the evening with due observance of spiri- tual disciplines.

लग्नादौ प्रतिबिंबदानजपपूजाधा मसंतर्पणै रुक्शान्तिः प्रतिकारनृत्तवलिदेवोपासनैश्व क्रमाद्। दन्तिस्कन्धसमर्पितेन बलिनाम्भस्तर्पणेनान्यगे बाधोक्तौ तु तदीश्वरे न च ततः प्रोक्तं न किश्चिब्यये 118811 Stanza 14 .- Remedies for the disposition of 'the angry planet' in Lagna and other houses are respectively the gifting away of one's own image (pratibimbadana), recitation of mantras (japa), worship of God (puja), construction of temples (dhama), feeding (santarpana), pratheekara bali, dancing before the deity (nrithya), Propitiatory oblation (bali), invocations (devopasana), dantis- kandha, dedication (tarpana).As the 12th houseis not a 'house of harm',its lord is also not harmful. NOTES The remedial measures given in this stanza are accord- ing to other treatises, which the author quotes for ready reference

Palliatives for Afflictions 505

अर्के वार्कगृहस्थे वा विहगेनिष्टसंस्थिते। देवाराधनमाधेयं पृच्छतां रोगशान्तये।।१५।। चन्द्रे वा तत्गृहस्थे वा यवागूप्रतिपादनम्। शंखाभिषेकधाराद्यमपि देवे विधीयताम् ॥१६।। देवे दीपसमर्पणम् च हवनं भौमे च तत्क्षेत्रगे चान्द्रौ तद्गृहगे च नृत्तकरणं जीवे तत्क्षेत्रगे। कर्तव्यं द्विजभोजनं च वितरेदेवाय होमादिकं शुक्रे तद्गृहगे च रोगशमनायान्नं प्रदेयं बहु।१७।। मन्दे मन्दगृहस्थे वा विहगेनिष्टसंस्थिते। नीचानामन्रदानं स्याद्भूदानं चार्तिशान्तये ।।१८।। Stanzas 15 to 18 .- If the Sun, the Moon,etc., are 'angry' or if the 'angry' planet occupies the sign of the Sun, Moon,etc., the palliatives, in the order of planets are divine worship (Devaradhana), Sankabhisheka and free distribution of rice- water, illumination and havanas, dance before deity, homas and feeding Brahmins, liberal feed- ing, and feeding of all classes of people. NOTES Here the reference is to the Moon etc., being them- selves afflicted, or 'afflicted planet' occupying the signs of the different planets. Thus if an 'angry' Sun or any

506 Prasna Marga

planet occupying Lco joins an unfavourable house, 'Aaradhana' should be performed. An angry Moon or a planet in Cancer requires the free distribution of rice water to the poor. An angry Mars or a planet occupying his houses will be pacified by illumination and 'Homas'. 'Natya' (ceremonial dance) is recommended for Mercury or for a planet occupying the sign of Mercury. Jupiter and the planets occupying his signs will be satisfied by free feeding of Brahmins and offering of ornaments. Venus and the planets occupying his house will be easily satisfied by the free feeding of the people in general. And Saturn and the planets occupying his signs require the feeding of backward classes.

लग्नस्थेषु ससत्खिनादिषु वदेत्तदेवतानुग्रहं प्रषटयामथ बाघकालयगते धर्माधिपे प्रक्चिरम्। यत्किश्चित्सम्ुपास्य दैवतममुष्योपेक्षया साम्प्रतं तत्कोपोस्ति भजेत दैवतमदो भद्रार्थमित्यादिशेत् ॥।१९।। Stanza 19 .- If any planet in association with a benefic occupies Lagna, then say that the deity governed by that planet will favour the native. If the lord of the 9th occupies 'the house of harm', then the deity, he used to worship before, has been neglected and hence the trouble.

Nature of Misappropriated Property 507

MISAPPROPRIATION OF DEITY'S PROPERTY

बाधकाद्यहितस्थाननाथे लाभार्थगे ग्रहे। तत्तहृव तकोप: स्यादेव स्वस्यापहारतः ॥२०

Stanza 20 .- If the lords of the 'houses of harm' occupy the 2nd or the 11th, then it must be construed that the native has misappropriated the property of the deity signified by the planet concerned. NOTES If the lord of 6, 8 or 12 occupies either the 2nd or the 12th, then the native's suffering will be due to the curse or wrath of the deity ruled by the said lord, whose property the native will have misused.

NATURE OF MISAPPROPRIATED PROPERTY

हेतुर्धातुरुदाहृतश्वरगृहे धतुप्रहे वोदिते मूलं मूलखगे सिथिरे द्वितनुभे जीवश्र जीवग्रहे। मूलं भूमिमद्दीरुहाद्यसुदितं हेमादयो धातवो जीवा मर्त्यचतुष्पदप्रभृतयो राशेस्समानाश्र ते ।२१।।

Stanza 21 .- The misappropriated property will be Dhatu, Moola or Jeeva, according as the Lagna happens to be either chara, sthira or

508 Prasna Marga

dwiswabhava; or the planet occupying the Lagna happens to be a Dhatu, Moola or Jeeva one.

NOTES

If movable signs happen to be Lagna or if a Dhatu planet occupies Lagna, misappropriation of mineral wealth such as gold, silver, copper, etc., is the cause of the deity's displeasure; if fixed signs happen to be Lagna or if the planet ruling 'Moola' is in it, misappropriation of 'Moola Dravyas' such as lands, trees, plants, etc., will be the cause. If common signs be the Lagna or Jeeva Grahas occupy it, then misappropriation of 'Jeeva Dravyas', viz., living beings (man, quardapad, etc.), is the causc of the anger. Here again the planet must be a Badhaka. The position of lord of Lagna should also be similarly considered. A Badhaka (i.e., the lord of the 3rd, 6th or 11th) should occupy the Lagna. The Dhatu, Moola or Jeeva signified by the planet would be the property misused by the afflicted person; or the mere fact of the Lagna being chara (movable), sthira (fixed) aad dwiswa- bhava icommon) would give the clue as to the source of affliction. Just as Lagna, the 2nd house can also be considered.

जीवे हेतौ त्वात्मना कल्पितानां पश्चादीनामीश्वरस्या- प्रदानात्। कोपो देवस्याप हत्याथवैषां जीवार्थे वागर्पेतानर्पणाद्वा

Nature of Misappropriated Property 509

Stanza 22 .- Whenever the cause is found to be 'Jeeva', it must be inferred that the native vowed to present cattle as free gifts to the Diety, but did not act up to it; or he misappropriated the cattle for himself; or having promised to give money, etc., for any person or animal connected with the Deity, he retracted his promise.

धातौ हेतौ देयहेमादयदनात्स्वीकाराद्वा देवसंबन्धिनोस। मूले हेतौ भूमिधान्यादिकानां कोपो देवस्यापहाराद्यवधैः 11R311 Stanza 23 .- When 'Dhatu' is the cause of the Deity, the native has not acted up to the vow to give money as free gift or misappropriated the Deity's wealth. Similarly for 'Moola' he should be considered as having misused lands, trees, grain, etc., endowed to the Deity.

चन्द्राराह्यसिता: सूर्यशुक्रौ ज्ञार्यौ चरादयः। धतुर्मूलं च जीवश्र क्रमेण ग्रहराशयः ॥२४। Stanza 24 .- The Moon, Mars, Rahu and Saturn, and all movable signs signify Dhatu. The Sun and Venus and all fixed signs represent Moola.Mercury and Jupiter and all common signs denote Jeeva.

510 Prasna Marga

चन्द्रारोरगसौ रैर्धातुर्मूलं किलार्कशुक्राम्याम्। जीवो जीवबुधार्म्यां मेषाश्विन्यादि घात्वादि ।२५।। Stnaza 25 .- According to Krishneeya, the Moon, Mars, Saturn and Rahu are Dhatu. The Sun and Venus are Moola. Mercury and Jupiter are Jeeva. Similarly the signs Aries, etc., and the stars Aswini, etc., should be considered as Dhatu, Moola and Jeeva in regular order.

NOTES They are to be considered in prder of Dhatu, Moola and Jeeva in succession. With regard to Nakshatras,Aswini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, etc., represent Dhatu, Moola, Jeeva, Dhatu, etc., in cyclic order.

जीवो जीवेन वाच्यः क्षितिसुतफणिनौ धातुदौ सर्वपक्षे धातुर्मूलं विकल्पाद्रविरवितनयौ द्वौ च धत्तो दवयं च। जीवो मूलं च तद्वद्वुधभृगुतनयौ धातुजीनौ शशाङ्को धातुर्मूलं च जीवः क्रमश इद मता राशयो वे चराद्या:

Stanza 26 .- According to all views, Jupiter represents 'Jeeva', and Mars and Rahu 'Dhatu'. The Sun stands for Dhatu only and Saturn for Moola only. According to some others, both these planets stand for both Dhatu and Moola.

Intensity of Deity's Wrath 511

In the same way, Mercury stands for Jeeva and Venus for Moola, while yet some say that both these planets stand for both Jeeva and Moola. The Moon stands for both Dhatu and Jeeva. Aries onwards indicate Dhatu, Moola, etc., in regular order. NOTES Stanza 26 is clear enough. But in view of the conflic- ting views, we can take the principles given in stanza 24.

धर्मदैवकृता बाघा तदनु पोच्यतेत्र तु । अर्कः शंम्वादिभि: पद्यैस्तद्भिदा च.वगम्यताम् ।।२७।। Stanza 27 .- The affliction caused by the deities-the Sun representing Siva, etc., should be considered as given in previous stanzas. NOTES Dharma Daivas or deities are to be understood as given in stanzas 4, 5. 6 and 7.

INTENSITY OF DEITY'S WRATH

वाधाधीशे गतवति सुखं वाघकस्थानसंस्थे वेश्मेशे वा सुखपतिगृहािष्ठिते बाधकेशे। वेश्मेशे वाप्यमुकगृहगे धर्मदैवस्य बाधा वाच्या प्रषुः पुनरधिकता लक्षणाधिक्यतोखाः॥।२८।।

512 Prasna Marga

Stanza 28 .- If the Lord of the 'house of harm' is in the 4th; or if the Lord of the 4th house occupies a 'house of harm'; or if the lord the 'house of harm' occupies the sign of the lord of the 4th; or if the lord of the 4th occupies the sign owned by the 'lord of harm'; then the native is subject to the wrath of deity.

NOTES 'Houses of harm' have already been enumerated in the earlier stanzas. Lord of the house of harm in the 4th sign or vice versa, Lord of the 4th in the sign of a badhara planent or a badhaka planet, in the sign of 4th Lord indicates that the querist's sufferings is due to the anger of the deity appropriate to the badhaka planet. The badha or affliction will be due to the cessation of the appropriate ritas that were conducted for the deity.

चतुर्थनाथस्य तु दैवतं यत्तस्यानुरूपं खलु धर्मदैवम्। तत्प्रीतये यत्क्रियते खपूै: पूजादिकं तन्तु विधेयमत्र ।।२९ । Stanza 29 .- Determine the 'family deity' as per the 4th lord and recommend the resumption of the old rites.

कोपे हेतु: प्रतिविदिरमुष्यापि यो देवतानां पूर्व प्रोक्त: स इह सुधिया योजनीयोपि योज्यः ।

Anger of Serpent God 513

बाधासंस्थे शशिनि च रवौ धर्मदैवस्य बाघा वाच्या भक्त्या प्रतिसममिदं पूजनीयं समृध्यै।३०।। Stanza 30 .- The causes and remedies detailed before regarding the 'anger of Gods' may be repeated in this connection also. If the Sun and the Moon occupy the house of harm, the source of affliction will be the anger of 'family deities'. They must be worshipped with devotion for prosperity.

ANGER OF SERPENT GOD

जीवः सन्बाधकेशो व्ययमृतिरिपुगो यद्यहे: केन्द्रसंस्थः सर्पाणासुत्तमानां यदि स सुरगुरु्मान्दिकेन्द्रेधमानाम्। पीडा वाच्याथ नाधाभवनसुपगते चोरगे सर्पवाधा तेषां हीनोत्तमत्वं शशिदिनकरयोर्योगवीक्षादिमि: स्यात् ।।३१।। Stanza 31 .- If Jupiter as lord of a 'house of harm' occupies the 6th, 8th or 12th and these happen to be the kendras of Rahu, then it must be inferred that the person has earned the 'wrath' of 'superior serpents'. If Jupiter happens to be in the kendras of Gulika, inferior ones have 33

514 Prasna Marga

turned against him. If Rahu occupies the 'house of harm', then the trouble is from serpents. In this yoga also, if Rahu has any connection with the Sun, then the trouble is from good serpents; if with the Moon, from bad ones.

राहौ नाधकपप्ठरन्धखगते कार्यो बलिः प्रीतये वेश्मस्थे खल चित्रकूटकरणं गानक्रिया रिप्फगे। लग्नेस्ते च सुधापयोवितरणं नृत्तक्रिया वास्तगे स्थानेष्वेष्वि कीर्तनात्प्रतिविधेर्बाधोच्यता भोगिनाम्

Stanza 32 .- If Rahu is in the 6th, 8th or 10th or in the house of harm, Sarpa Bali should be performed; if in the 4th, Chitra Kuta stone should be dedicated to the Serpent God; if in the 12th, 'singing' must be arranged; if in Lagna, milk and 'siddhapayasa' (milk and water) should be offered; and if in the 7th house, devotional music must be sung.

स्थानेप्वष्यखिलेषु सर्ववलिरेवोदीर्यतां वा पुन- स्तृप्यन्त्युत्तमभोगिनस्तु बलिना नीचास्तु गानादिमिः । सर्वेपां बलिकर्म तुष्टिकरणं वक्तव्यमेवं हि वा सर्पप्रतिरवश्यमेव करणीयारोग्यपुत्राक्षये ।।३३।।

Anger of Serpent God 515

Stanza 33 .- Whatever be the house Rahu occupies, Sarpa Bali is to be performed. Some say that good serpents alone will be pacified by Sarpa Bali, while songs and dance are required to allay the fury of bad ones. If the serpents are not satisfied, sickness and other calamities may come in. If they are satisfied, children, good health and general prosperity will come in.

अण्डानां चरगे किशोरफणिनां नाशोसुरे द्वन्दगे लग्नस्थे तदिदं द्वयं स्थिरगते बाधाकरो भूरुहाम्। कुत्वाण्डान्यह्यश्च नीचफणिनां ताम्रेण हेन्ना मुदे दोयान्युत्तमभोगिनां यदि नगा नष्टाश्च तान् स्थापयेत् ।।३४॥

Stanza 34 .- If Rahu occupies a movable sign, the curse is due to the wanton destruction of the serpents' eggs. If he is in a common sign, it is due to killing of small ones. If he is in a fixed sign, it is the result of felling trees found near the serpent's abode. If such destruction is found, eggs and small serpents of gold and copper should be made and installed in the places of worship. For destruction of trees, fresh ones should be planted.

516 Prasna Marga

एकादश चरे लग्ने द्वन्द्वे सप्त स्थिरे नव। अण्डानि चाहयश्चेति सम्प्रदायविदां वचः ।३५॥ Stanza 35 .- According as Lagna is movable, fixed or common, the 11, 9 or 7 images (of eggs or small serpents) made in gold or copper, should be installed, according to tradition.

राहुर्मान्दियुतस्तदस्तनवमापत्यस्थितो वा यदि प्रषुः स्यात्फणिबाधनं क्षितिसुतः केन्द्रे तु सहोर्यदि। बाधाहेतुरुदीर्यतां फणिगृहे क्षोणीरुहच्छेदनं भूमेर्वा खननं विहिंसनमहेर्वल्मीकमेदोथग॥३६॥ Stanza 36 .-- The curse of serpents is to be inferred if Rahu conjoins Mandi, or if he is in the 5th, 7th or 9th from him. If Mars occupies a kendra of Rahu, the reasons for their trouble are destruction of trees or removing the earth or killing them or levelling their abodes or setting fire to the trees near or ignoring to replant fresh trees or breaking their favourite anthills.

यद्वोद्यानमहीरुहादिदहनं वा चित्रकूटच्छिदा राहो: केन्द्रगतः पुनर्यदि शनिर्मान्दिश्च नागालये। मृत्रोच्छिष्टशकृद्विसर्गकरणं निष्ठीवनं वान्तिके चण्डालोपगतिश्र मौरिभकरिप्रक्षोभणं वा पुनः।।३७।।

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Stanza 37 .- If Saturn and Gulika occupy the kendras of Rahu, say that the abode of serpents has become unclean and polluted by heaping urine, stools, etc., all round, or by allowing sinners and other low-minded people to approach their quarters, or by allowing elephants to trample on them or by freely ploughing the places with bullocks.

मान्दिः केन्द्रगतो यदीह फणिनो निष्टीवनं मैथुनं मृत्रोच्छिष्टशकृद्विसर्ग उत वा नागालये वान्तिके। वृक्षादं यदि चेत्प्रणष्टमिह तत् कार्य पुनः पूर्व- वत्त्यक्तोच्छिष्टमलादिसंभव इदं पुण्याहमप्याचरेत्।।३८।। Stunza 38 .- If Gulika alone stands in a kendra of Rahu, the abodes of the serpents have become unclean by spitting on them or by co- habitation or by excreting, etc., near them. If Saturn and Gulika occupy the kendras, the surroundings of their abode also should be well guarded and kept clean by fresh trees being planted and by regular rites of purification.

PARENTAL CURSES

भौमक्षाशकयोरशीतकिरणो बाधागतश्चेत् पितुः शापेस्त्येत्रमुहप्रसुर्यदि भवेच्छापं जनन्या वदेत्।

518 Prasna Marga

पित्रोः शाप इनोहुनाथगृहयोश्चानिष्टगे स्यात् खरे शुभ्रपार्थ समर्पणादिभिरिह प्रीतिं विधद्यात्तयोः ॥३९॥ Stanza 39 .-- According as the Sun or the Moon occupies the 'house of harm' which should happen to be the sign or Navamsa of Mars, the native is under the curse of the father or the mother. A malefic in Leo or Cancer which happens to be an unfavourable house from Lagna indicates the same result. To get rid of these curses, the parents should be better served if they are alive and their annual ceremonies must be performed with great devotion if they are dead.

पापाश्वेद्धाधकस्थः सुरगुरुसहितस्तद्गृहे वा द्विजानां देवानां वास्ति शापो यदि रविभवने तद्ुतो वात्र पाप:। पूर्देषां वा गुरूणां यदि स धरणिजस्तर्हि शापो महान् स्यात् श्रीतिं देवद्विजानां सवगुरुजनमनः ग्रीणनं चात्र कुयात् 118o11 Stanza 40 .- If an evil planet is in the 'house of harm' in association with, or in the sign of Jupiter, there will be the curse of Brahmins and Devas. If the 'house of harm' is Leo or the Sun

Curse of Elders 519

is there, the curse is again due to the dissatis- faction of father, grand-father or ancestors or seniors. This is known as Purva Sapa. If the evil planet happens to be Mars, the nature of the curse is very intense. Hence their dissatisfaction must be removed by suitable amends.

CURSES OF ELDERS

षष्ठेशो नवमे रिशै नवमपः स्याच्चेत् पितुर्वा गुरो: पूर्वेषामथवात्मनः स्वविपयं विज्ञेयमप्रीणनम्। सूर्ये षष्ठगते तदीशसहिते वा वाच्यमेतत् पितु- श्रन्द्रेणापि चतुर्थषष्ठपतितश्चैंवं जनन्या वदेद् ॥४१।। Stanza 41 .- If the lord of the 6th is in the 9th or if the lord of the 9th is in the 12th, then the father or preceptor or a family elder is not well disposed towards the native. The Sun occupying the 6th house or conjoining the 6th lord; and the Moon, similarly disposed, denotes respectively father's and mother's displeasure.

TROUBLES FROM GHOSTS

अब्ददीक्षादिलोपेन प्रेता याताः पिशाचताम्। स्वजनान् बाधमातास्ते चरन्तीति खलु स्मृतिः ।।४२।।

520 Prasna Marga

Stanza 42 .- It is said if the obsequies of a person have not been properly performed, his soul without getting the necessary liberation will be wandring as a ghost molesting his kith and kin.

बाधा प्रेतोद्भवा स्यात् स्थितवति गुळिके बाधकेनिष्टभे वा तत्रारक्षाशसंस्थो यदि कुजसहितो मान्दिरारेक्षितो वा।

मान्देश्वेत् प्रेत एष स्वविरहिततया दुःखितः सन् परेतः 118311 Stanza 43 .- If Gulika occupies the 'house of harm' or an unfavourable place, the person suffers troubles from ghosts. If he however occupies the sign or Navamsa of Mars or is asso- ciated with or aspected by Mars, then the man had an unnatural death, such as from burns, deadly weapons, or diseases like small pox, etc. If Gulika is in any way connected with Saturn, then the man will have died of misery and penury in a lonely and foreign place.

प्राप्तो मृत्युमसौ भुजङ्गदशनाद्युक्ेक्षिते राडुणा नद्यादौ पतनेन तोयभवने मान्दौ सपापान्वये।

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संबन्धे गुळिकस्य चैवमासतां प्रेतास्तु दुर्मृत्यवो विज्ञेया गुळिकांशराशिवशतो वाच्या च पुंस्त्रीमिदा 118811 Stanza 44 .- If Gulika just mentioned has any connection with Rahu, then the person had died of serpent-bite. If Gulika is connected with evil planets and occupies a watery sign, then death will have ceen due to drowning. In this manner, by noting the connection of Gulika with evil planets, the unnatural causes of death resulting in the person becoming a Preta should be ascertained. The sex of the dead person depends upon the odd or even nature of the sign and Navamsa occupied by Gulika.

प्रेता: स्युः सोदराद्या स्थिरभवनगते मन्दजे प्रेत एषः। मृत्युं प्राप्तस्त्विदानीं स यदि चरगतः प्राक्तन: सोथ मान्दौ वेश्मस्थे तत्पतीक्षान्वयवति गृहसंबन्धवान् नान्यथा चेत्।।४५।। Stanza 45 .- If Gulika occupies Bhavas indi- cating brothers, etc., or is in any way connected

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with the lords or karakas of the respective Bhavas, then the dead person would be the brother, etc. If Gulika is in a fixed sign, the person died recently; if in a movable sign, long ago ; if in the 4th, or connected with the lord of the 4th, the Preta or ghost is some way connected with the family. Otherwise the ghost is foreign to the house.

प्रेतस्य बालता वाच्या मान्दौ राश्यादिसंस्थितें। राश्यन्तस्थे जरन्नेव मध्यस्थे वय उह्यताम् ॥४६।।

Stanza 46 .- If Mandi occupies the first part of a Rasi, then the Preta or ghost is that of an infant ; if he occupies the last part, the ghost is that of an aged person. If in the middle, then it will be middle aged.

चन्द्राद्यालयतद्युक्त्ते मान्दावेकादिकं वयः । प्रेतस्यैके स्वबाल्यादिवशादुड्पतेर्वयः॥४७।।

Stanza 47 .- The age of the 'ghost' will also correspond to the age of the lord of the house in which Gulika is placed. In determining the Moon's age, however, his avasthas should be considered.

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NOTES

The age of the dead person can be determined in another way. Note the position of Gulika in the various houses and calculate the years allotted to the lord of each house, or note the planet who associates with Gulika and calculate his yeats. Moon gives 1 year, Mars 2, Mcrcury 9, Venus 20, Jupiter 18, the Sun 20 and Saturn 50 years. In fixing the age of the Moon, there is another view. The avastha of the Moon determines the age. That is, if the Moon is in balya avastha, the Preta will be that of a child.

प्रेतस्य जातिजिज्ञासा जायते यदि कुत्रचित्। मान्दाधिष्ठितराश्यंशजातिं तत्र विनिर्दिशेत् ॥४८।। Stanza 48 .- The caste and age to which the dead man belonged and the object are to be ascertained by noting the nature of the Rasi and Navamsa occupied by Gulika. NOTES The caste of the Preta in its worldly life should be ascertained on the basis of the Rasi and Amsa occupied by Gulika. Whether Rasi or Amsa should be taken, is again a problem to be determined by the astrologer's ability. Pisces is Brahmin, Aries is Kshatriya, Taurus is Vaisya and Gemini is Sudra. The triangular signs have similar 'castes'. According to some commentators, the caste of the Preta should be known from the caste of the lord of the sign occupied by Gulika. The castes of the

524 Prasna Marga

planets are thus disposed : Brahmin-Jupiter and Venus; Kshatriya-Mars and the Sun; Vaisya-the Moon; Sudra-Mercuty : and other so called low castes-Saturn. Of couise other tendencies and objects of the Preta in afflicting the person should be guessed by noting the planetary strengths, exaltations, evil associations, disposi- tions, etc., of these lords.

REMEDIAL MEASURES

प्रेतबाधामिति ज्ञात्वा कार्यावश्यं प्रतिक्रिया । आपन्नो यदि तत्प्रीतौ सम्पच्चात्राभियुक्तवाक् ॥४९।। Stanza 49 .- Having ascertained that the afflic- tion is due to troubles from ghosts, remedial measures should be adopted. Though the effects of trouble may be slow, the results of their favour will be easily seen.

कोपः प्रेतस्याकुर्यात्तनयविहननं च मयादीननर्था स्तत्प्रीत्यै पार्वणाद्यं पितृगणमनसः प्रीणनं श्राद्धकर्म। कुर्याच्च क्षेत्रपिण्डं तिलहवनमथो ब्राह्मणानां च भुक्तिं प्रीताः प्रेतास्त्वमीभिर्विद्धति सकलाः सम्पदः सन्ततिं च 114°11 Stanza 50 .- It is the 'anger' of pretas that brings about the death of children, sickness and poverty. To counteract such afflictions, shraddhas,

Evil Eye 525

kshetra pindas, tilavahana, etc.,should be carefully performed followed by the feeding of Brahmins. These remedies pacify the pretas and contribute to general well-being and prosperity of the person concerned.

EVIL EYE

अथ दृष्टिभवा बाधाः कथ्यन्ते तत्र ये नराः। नार्योथवाग्रहैर्बाध्याः शास्त्रोक्तान् कीर्तयामि तान् ।५१।। Stanza 51 .- Drishti badha, the trouble that is brought about by seeing some unusual, uncom- mon 'grahas' capable of mischief will now be enumerated.

लुब्धं क्ररं भयातं हृषितमतिशठं पूर्ववैरानुवदं नष्टद्रव्यं वियुक्तं प्रीतहतमशुचिं प्राप्तकालं सरोगम्। हासान्धं कान्तदेहं निधिविलयकरं कातरं भूषिताङ्गं रात्रावेकाकिनं च स्मरमथनगणास्तं पुमांसं ग्रसन्ति

Stanza 52 .- Persons who are miserly, or cruel in nature, or overpowered by extreme fear, thirst, or fatigued by extreme sexual indulgence, or stub- born, or spiteful, or ruined in wealth, or deserted

526 Prasna Marga

by all, or disappointed, or unclean, or sickly, or maddened with joy, or very handsome, or squandering spend-thrifts, or deprived of mental strength, or having many ornaments on their bodies, and wandering alone in the nights, and persons to whom misfortunes are near, are attacked by five Bhutas.

तैलाभ्यक्तां प्रभूतामभिनवसुरतां मद्यपानानुरक्तां नग्नामुत्पन्नसत्वां स्मरशरक्विशां मुह्यमानां विहारैः । रथ्याश्रृङ्गाटकस्यामृतुसमययुतां पुंश्रलीकां रुदन्ति- मेकान्तां कान्तदेहां स्त्रियमपि विषमा गुह्यकाः संस्पृशन्ती ॥५३।। Stanza 53 .- Women anointed with oil, or in confinement, or engaged in sexual intercourse for the first time after puberty, or deeply drunk, or naked, or in pregnancy, or intensely passionate or fatigued by sensual and sexual pleasures; or standing often in streets, parks and junctions of highways; or having menstrual period, or steeped in immorality, or always complaining and crying or moving; or bewitchingly beautiful, are affected by guhyakas. NOTES The above three stanzas are from Sarasangraha.

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CAUSE OF EVIL EYE

ग्रहाणां पीडने यानि कारणानिह तानि च । तेषां स्थानानि चोच्यन्ते परिहाराय दूरतः ॥५४।। Stanza 54 .- With a view to devising antidotes, the reasons for the attacks of these spirits and the spots from which they attack will be now taken up.

अवमानमृणं वैरं विभ्नो भाग्यविपर्ययः । ईश्वराज्ञा च कल्प्यन्ते कारणं ग्रहपीडने ।५५॥

Stanza 55 .- Asa result of disrespect, debts, enmity and failure, man's good luck wanes and troubles from grahas arise as decreed by the Supreme Being. NOTES This stanza is variously interpreted. Disrespect implies irreverence to any divinity or deity. If one deprives the deity of what is due to it by way of gifts, pujas, etc., it constitutes a debt. The third is the old inherited enmity. Failure in one's debt towards the deity constitutes the fourth source of trouble. As a result of these four causes, the fortunes of the man are said to decline and he is said to suffer untold miseries. Divine Law orders punish- ment and then the troubles from grahas come in full force.

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PLACES OF ATTACK

गृहाश्मकूटशैलाग्नवनोपवनसानुषु। सरिद्वापीसर कूपतटाकोदन्वतां तटे॥५६।। सङ्गमे सरिदावर्ते गोकुले शून्यमन्दिरे। एकवृक्षे चितास्थाने प्रभ्रष्टे देवतागृहे ॥५७॥ निधिदेशे रसक्षेत्रे विलद्वारे चतुष्पथे। ग्रामसीमान्तरे मातृस्थाने च क्षेत्रतीर्थयोः॥५८॥ आरामोद्यानयोः सौधे प्रासादाट्टालकेषु च। क्रीडापरा वसन्त्येते स्थानेष्वेतेषु हि ग्रहाः ॥५९॥ Stanzas 56 to 59 .- The various grahas fre- quent the following spots for amusement : caves, rocky places, tops of hills, forests, gardens, summits of mountains, banks of rivers, brinks of tanks and ponds, sides of wells; river confluences, whirls, cow-sheds, vacant houses, isolated trees, cremation grounds, ruined temples; places where treasure troves are found, chemical laboratories, mole-bills, centres of highways, outskirts of villages, places, where female deities are worship- ped, places of pilgrimage; palatial mansions and places of sport.

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NOTES

Causes for being afflicted by spirits have already been given. The spirits are generally said to frequent the places mentioned in stanzas 56 to 59 and they should be avoided.

संख्या: संज्ञाः सभावाश् सन्ति शास्त्रान्तरोदिताः । बाधन्ते ये नरास्तेषां कथयन्ते तेप्यनन्तरम् ॥६०।।

Stanza 60 .- The spirits that trouble man are many. Their number, their names and their general nature are explained below as based on other treatises.

NAMES OF SPIRITS CAUSING EVIL EYE

पीडका ये मनुष्याणां ग्रहास्ते सप्तविंशतिः । अष्टादश महान्तस्तेषूच्यन्तेत्राखिलाश्र ते ।।६१।। Stanza 61 .- The spirits that trouble man are 26 in number. Of these 18 are powerful spirits and 9 are secondary ones.

अमरा असुरा नागा यक्षा गन्धर्वराक्षसाः । हेद्वकथलनिस्तेजमस्मकाः पितरः कृशाः ॥६२॥ 34

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विनायक: प्रलापाश्व पिशाचान्त्यजयोनिजाः। भूताश्रेति समाख्याता अष्टादश महाग्रहाः ॥६३।। Stanzas 62 and 63 .- Amara, Asura, Naga, Yaksha, Gandharva, Rakshasa, Heydra, Kasmala, Nistheja, Bhasmaka, Pitris, Krisa, Vinayaka, Pralapa, Pisacha, Anthyaja, Yonija and Bhuta are the 18 Mahagrahas or great spirits.

अपस्मारो द्विजो ब्रह्मराक्षसोवनियुग्विशौ। वृषलो नीचचण्डालौ व्यन्तराश्च नव ग्रहाः ॥६४।। Stanza 64 .- Apasmara, Brahmana, Brahma Rakshasa, Kshatriya, Vaisya, Sudra, Neecha, Chandala and Vyanthara are the 9 light or secondary spirits.

CATEGORIES OF SPIRITS रुद्रक्रोदोद्भवा एते ह्यन्ये च वहवों ग्रहाः । बलिकामा रन्तुकामा हन्तुकामा इति त्रिधा ।६५।। Stanza 65 .- These and many others had their origin from the anger of Rudra.These spirits can be divided into three categories based on their motives of attack; viz., Bali Kama, Rati Kama, and Hanthu Kama. NOTES The origin of all these 18 great spirits (mahagrahas) and the secondary or light spirits (laghu grahas) is traced

How to Distinguish Spirits 531

to the wrath of Rudra, and they are brought under three distinct categories, the basis being, their motive. Actuated by Bali Kama (wishing to eat the oblations given) some attack the man; some are actuated by the wish to indulge in enjoyment with the victim (Rati Kama), while a few have their motive as the destruction of their victims (Hanthu Kama).

HOW TO DISTINGUISH SPIRITS

एते ग्रहा: पुनज्ञयाः सौम्यताग्नेयतावशात्। द्विधा च तद्द्िदा ज्ञेया ग्रहतत्सितथि भेदतः ॥६६॥ Stanza 66 .- These spirits also can be divided into two, viz., passive and active and these can be distinguished from the natures and dispositions of the planets

बाधन्ते हन्तुकामा: कतिचन कतिचिददेवता भोक्तुकामाः पुंनारी रन्तुकामाः पुनरपि कतिचित्तासु या हन्तुकामाः । घ्रन्त्येवैता गृहीत्वा बलिमिह विभृजन्त्यत्र या भोक्तुकामा रन्तुं या बाधमाना अपि च बलिशतैनैव ता संत्यजन्ति ।।६७/ Stanza 67 .- Some 'devatas' attack persons to murder them; some do it for getting oblations, and some do it for enjoying with their victims.

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The first do not leave their victims without killing them; the second leave the victims after getting their dues; and the third also do not leave their victims but they can be pacified.

NOTES The terms 'devatas', 'grahas' and 'bhutas' are synony- mous in the context in which they are now used.

देवग्रहादिभि: प्रोक्तं पीडितानां पृथक्पृथक। लक्षणं तेन च ज्ेया ग्रहभेदा हि तद्था ।६८।।

Stanza 68 .- The signs or symptoms by which the people affected by these Devatas can be distinguished, are detailed in other treatises. By examining them, the names of the Devatas also can be known.

स्नातः सुगन्धस्तेजस्वी हृष्टो देवालये रतः। अल्पवागल्पविण्मूतः खल्पभुक्तिरकोपनः ॥६९।। गन्धमाल्यप्रियो धीरः सौम्यदृष्टिः सुरग्रही। देवान्निन्दन् स्तुवन् दैत्यान् ब्रह्मद्विडजिह्यलोचनः॥७०।। दुष्टात्मा निर्भयो इसो गर्वहासी सविस्मयः । मरुद्रां बधन् प्रभूताशी सकम्पाङ्गोऽसुरग्रही॥७॥

How to Distinguish Spirits 533

Stanzas 69 to 71 .- A person affected by Deva Graha bathes early, anoints his body with scented perfumes, is calm, spends his time mostly in places of worship; talks, eats and estimates little; is not easily angered, likes flowers and perfumes and is strong in mind and gentle in looks. A person affected by Asura Graha decries Devas, praises Asuras, hates Brahmins, is cruel hearted, looks slantingly, is fearless and haughty, laughs patroni- singly, exhibits signs of wonder at everything, displays dummy shows, eats much and shakes his body.

पानीयगुळदुग्धादिपिपासुः सृक्कणी लिहन्। भ्रुविप्रसर्पिरक्ताक्ष: क्रोधालरचले वसन् ॥७२॥ सकम्पाङ्गो दशन् दन्तान् पुष्पेच्छुर्नागपीडितः। धीरस्त्यागी मनोगामी रक्तकल्पानलेक्षणः।।७३।। भोगान्धो गन्धवाहाशी ज्ञेयो यक्षग्रही क्षमी। अल्पवाग्गन्धमाल्यादिप्रियः सङ्गीतनर्तनः।७४॥ पुळिनादौ वसन् जानन् परोक्षं मुखवाद्यकृत। पिवन् क्षीरं हसन् क्रीडन् हृष्टो गन्धर्वपीडितः ।७५।। Stanzas 72 to 75 .- One affected by Naga Graha is an addict of sweet drinks and curds

534 Prasna Marga

(dugdha), bites his lips often, looks around with his red shot eyes, is very irritable and frequents hilly places, his body shivers and he quashes (or bites) his teeth and is fond of flowers. Yaksha Graha makes one brave, charitable, gives power of quick comprehension and seek pleasure always. Gandharva Graha makes one talk little, fond of perfumes and flowers, skilled in music and dance, sitting on mounds of sand, and produces melodious sounds with his facial movements, is fond of drinking milk, laughs and plays much.

प्रधावन्नात्ममांसानि खादन्मद्यासृजी पिवन्। शून्यग्रामोषितस्तात्रो निल्लजो निष्ठरः सरुट् ॥७६।। शौचद्वेषी निशाचारी बलवान्ताक्षसग्रही। स्मेरास्योधोमुखः किश्रिदपश्यञ्छन्नमुष्टिक: ॥७७। जानुन्यस्तशिरा: क्ररदृष्टिर्हद्रग्रही नरः । विट्पङ्कलेपि निश्ौचो भम्मशायी रुदन् हसन्॥७८॥। स्त्रीद्रोही त्ासयन् जन्तून् सदाश्नयन् कलहप्रियः । रागी परार्थहृत् कृद्ध: स्वल्पवाक्कश्मलग्रही॥७९॥ Stanzas 76 to 79 .- One affected by a Rakshasa Graha is running to and fro, eats his own flesh, drinks blood and liquor, lives in a

How to Distinguish Spirits 535

lonely place, his body is of copper colour, has no sense of shame, is quickly angered, is unclean, wanders in the nights and is hefty. One affected by Heydra Graha is smiling, has downward gaze, keeps his fingers folded, rests his head on his knee cap when sitting, and is fierce- looking. One affected by Kasmala Graha smears his body with dirt, is unclean, sleeps on ashes, laughs and weeps alternately for no reason, proves ungrateful to women, terrifies apimals, always eats, is quarrelsome, sensual, misappropriates other's wealth, irritable, and talks very little.

निस्तेजा विडल: पश्यन्निर्निमेषणमन्ृवन्। परिहासितवैद्यश् निस्तेजो ग्रहपीडितः ॥८०।। Stanza 80 .- If one is affected by Nistheja Graha, his body is lustreless, he is always tired and worn out, looks askance at all people, reserved and mocks at physicians.

असङ्गतार्थवाग्द्वेषी शीताङ्गस्तिर्यगीक्षणः । भुक्तावतृप्तः कृष्णाङ्गो निर्मलो भस्मकग्रही॥८१॥ Stanza 81 .- The person attacked by Bhasma- ka Graha talks irrelevantly, hates others, has a cold and dark body, he will have angular looks,

536 Prasna Marga

is not satisfied with any amount of food and is clean.

दर्भेषु निर्वपन् पिण्डान् प्रेतानाम् सोदकक्रियः । तिलमांसगुळदीनि कांक्षन् शान्त: पितृग्रही ॥८२॥ Stanza 82 .- When a person is attacked by Pitru Graha, he performs pinda kriyas, is fond of flesh, sugar and gingelly seeds and is calm and unruffled.

एकान्तवासी शुष्काङ्ग: प्रधावन् दारुणध्वनिः । पृष्टो न व्याहरन् भुक्तौ न तृप्यति कृशग्रही ॥८३। Stanza 83 .- A person affected by Krisa Graha prefers solitude, is lean, runs to and fro, produces wailing sounds, does not reply even when questioned, and is not satisfied with any amount of food.

मार्जन् पादरजो मुश्चन् शूल्कारान् छर्दयन् सदा। दन्तान्ं कटकटायन्यः स ग्रद्दः स्याद्विनायकः ॥८४।। Stanza 84 .- If a person is affected by Vinayaka Graha, he often removes the dust off his legs, produces sounds now and then, vomits always, bites his teeth making katakata sounds, (half-guttral and half-dental).

How to Distinguish Spirits 537

भञ्चन् गात्ाणि शुष्काङ्गो नृत्यन् स्वस्थ: सक्ृद्धसन। बहुभुग्बद्दुभाषी च प्रलापग्रहपीडितः।।८५।। Stanza 85 .- A person influenced by Pralapa Graha, injures his own body, is lean, dances round, has no thoughts about anything, sometimes laughs and talks much without any purpose.

खररूक्षसवरः शून्यभिन्नसेवी प्रलापकः। दुर्गन्धश्चाशुचिर्लोल: पिशाचग्रहपीडितः ॥८६।। Stanza 86 .- One possessed of Pisacha Graha exhibits harsh and hard voice, talks senselessly, likes dirty and worn-out things and his body is foul smelling.

तर्जयन लोलरक्ताक्षो लुब्धो विदपङ्कलेपकः। बहुसुक्साङ्गकम्पश्च दीनवागन्त्यजग्रही ।।८७।। Stanza 87 .- If one is possessed by an Anthyaja Graha, he talks ill of others, his eyes are red and moving, he is niggardly, smears his body with dirt and refuse, eats much, shakes his legs for no reason and has plaintive speech.

बहुभुक्चिन्तितं जानन् पिशिताशि चलेक्षणः । निर्मयांदो मेषगन्धः स्थिराङ्गो योनिजग्रही ॥८८।।

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Stanza 88 .- A person affected by Yonija Graha eats much, is able to read others' minds, likes flesh, eyes are swimming round, behaves shamelessly, smells like that of a goat, and he cannot move most of the limbs in his body.

प्रहरन् जनमारोहन् वृक्षानुच्चापशब्दवाक। सवोनुकारी विकृतो भवेद्भूतग्रही नरः ।८९।। Stanza 89 .- Bhutha Graha can be recognised in a person who beats all who approach him, who climbs trees, talks incoherently and apes all, his nature is ever changing.

फेनोद्रारी विवृत्ताक्षो निस्संज्ञः पतितो भुवि। सङ्कोचयन् कराङघ्रयादि पीताङ्गो दशनान् दशन् ।९० | लब्घसंज्ञः पुनः स्वस्थः स्यादपस्मारवान्नरः । शुक्लमाल्यांवरादीच्छुः पठन् वेदं कुशादिधृक।।९१।। विप्रानुष्ठानकृच्छुद्वो भजन् देवान् द्वजग्रही। प्रायस्तुल्यक्क्ियो विप्रग्रहेण ब्रह्मराक्षसः ॥९२।। Stanzas 90 to 92 .-- A person possessed by an Apasmara Graha falls unconscious with shooting eye-balls after spitting large quantities of phlegm

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and is motionless, his body is yellow in colour, bites his teeth and after some time recovers consciousness. One affected by Brahmana Graha shows desire to get garlands of white flowers and dress, chants Vedas, spreading Kusa grass and observes all the religious ceremonies of a Brahmin and worships God. Similar conduct is exhibited by one who is affected by Brahma Rakshasa Graha.

रक्तपुष्पादिधड.नित्यं धावन्वल्गन् हसन् लिखन्। सहिष्णुः क्षत्रचेष्टाकृद्धायन् गर्जन् नृप ही।।९३।।

Stanza 93 .- A person affected by a Kshatriya Graha likes red flowers and red dress, runs to and fro, dances round and round and laughs aloud, writes on palm leaves and paper, is able to stand excess of cold and heat and acts and roars like a Kshatriya.

जम्भमाणो हसन् क्रन्दन्नाक्रोशन् कर्षको वणिक। नृत्यन्नवाच्यवाक्कप्यन्दुर्विनीतो विशातुरः।।९४।।

Stanza 94-One affected by Vaisya Graha yawns, laughs and cries aloud, complains always, imitates a merchant, initiates selling and buying, dances

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round and round, talks rubbish, is quickly anger- - ed and is immodest in his actions.

विण्मूत्ादिभुगव्यक्तवाडनेट्रस्पृग्रद न् हसन्। विप्रद्विटस्त्रीप्रियः साङ्गकल्पः स्याद्वृषलग्नहि।९५॥। Stanza 95 .- One affected by a Sudra Graha consumes his own urine and stools, talks indistinctly, rubs his private parts, cries and laughs for no reason, laughs at Brahmins, pretends love for women and his limbs shiver and shake.

मिश्रचिह्वा स्मृता नीचचण्डालव्यन्तरा ग्रहाः । मुश्चामि किश्चिहृहीति बवन् गायन् हसन् मृदु ॥९६।। Stanza 96 .- One suffering from Neecha Graha. Chandala Graha or Vyanthara Graha has several signs mentioned before in a mixed form. One affected by Soumya Graha utters the words `give me something, I shall go', he sings slowly and laughs gently.

न मुश्चामीति वागात्मप्रहता परुषं वदन्। मौम्याग्नेयग्रहावेतौ हन्तुकामं विवर्जयेद् ।।९७।। Stanza 97 .- One affected by Aagneya Graha says 'I will not go'. He beats his own body and

How to Distinguish Spirits 541

utters harsh words. Hanthukama Grahas will not leave the body and hence no treatment is necessary.

निपतन् वप्रवृक्षादेर्वहून्यगाधांभसो विशन् । विधून्वन्मूर्धजान् हृष्टो वैद्यं पश्यन् प्रभाषितः ।।९८।। रुदन्नत्यति रक्ताक्षो हन्तुकामग्रही नरः । पशयन् समन्तादुद्विग्नः शूलदाहज्वरार्दितः ।।९९।। सुत्तष्णार्त: शिरोरोगी देहि देहीति यो ब्रवन्। उद्विग्नः स्त्रीतन्रों क्रीडन् प्रियवाद्यनुपद्रवी ॥१००॥ स्नातो माल्याद्यलङ्कारी रतिं यो याचतेऽयुचिः। बलिकामौ रन्तुकामश्रैतौ साध्यौ मन्त्रिणा ॥१०१।। Stanzas 98 to 101 .- One exhibiting signs of 'Hanthu Kama' will try to jump down from trees, hillocks, plunge into deep waters or fall in the blazing fire. He will wring his hair, smile, dance round the physician talking and crying. If the Graha happens to be Bali Kama, he looks around and pretends fear; has stomach pains, excessive feeling of heat, high fever, hunger, thirst and severe headache,and says often 'give me what you owe me'. If the Graha is Rati Kama, he is always afraid of something: he plays on the bodies

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of women; talks of winning words, troubles none, he courts love after bathing and putting on flowers and ornaments; if his request is ignored, he lies down as if polluted. Bali Kama retires if he is given the Bali. Rati Kama does leave the man though his troubles can be minimised by periodical Balis and Pujas. Hanthu Kama is murderous.

चेष्टाभिरेवं पृथगीरितामिर्विज्ञाय भूतान्यखिलानि मन्त्री। तेषां चिकित्सां विदधातु तत्तदयोग्याभिरव्यग्रमनाः क्रियामिः ॥१०२।। Stanza 102 .- After examining these signs in detail,the Grahas or spirits must be identified and the necessary remedial measures prescribed.

PLANETS FAVOURING SPIRITS

ग्रहाणां पुनरेतेषां खेटसंबन्ध ईर्थते। तथैव बाधकस्थानमपि शास्त्रान्तरोदितम् ॥१०३॥! Stanza 103 .- How these Grahas (or spirits) are connected with planets, what the houses of harm are, etc., have been explained in other treatises and they will be narrated here.

Planets Favouring Spirits 543

भानो रुद्रगणोग्रदेवभुजगाधीशा विधो: किनरा यक्षाद्या ग्रहपन्नगाः क्षितिसुतस्योग्रा हि रक्षोग्रहाः। भूता भैरवदेवताश्र शशिजस्याद्वालगाः किन्नरा वागीशस्य शुभग्रहाः शुभतरा नागास्त्रिमूर्त्यादयः ।।१०४।

Stanza 104 .- The Sun governs Rudraganas, Ugradevas and Nagas; the Moon rules over Kinnaras, Yakshas and Graha Pisachas; Mars denotes Rakshasa Grahas and Bhutas, Bhairava Devatas, etc., Mercury rules Attala Grahas and Kinnaras; Jupiter governs Deva Grahas, Naga Grahas and Thrimurthees.

यक्षीमातृभुजङ्गमा भृगुसुतस्याक्ोत्मजस्याशुभा भस्मारुक्षपिशाचकथ्चलमुखा निस्तेजसंज्ञा ग्रहाः। राहोस्सर्पपिशाचपन्नगभृतः प्रेतग्रहाद्यद्भवाः केतोस्तेऽखिलदेहिनां विदधते रोगाननिष्टर्क्षगाः।१०५।।

Stanza 105 .- Venus governs Yakshee, Matrus and Nagas; Saturn-evil ones as Nisthejas, Bhas- makas, Pisachas and Kasmalas; Rahu denotes Nagas, Pisachas and Serpents; and Ketu-Preta- grahas and Pitris. Diseases are caused by these

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Devatas indicated by planets occupying unfavour- able positions.

बाधकस्थानगे सूर्ये शैवभूतादिपीडनम्। चन्द्रे दुर्गाकृतं रोगं धर्मदैवकृतं गदम् ॥१०६।। भौमे स्कन्दकृतं व्याधिं भैरवादिनिपीडनम्। सौम्ये गन्घर्वयक्षादि विमानस्थानवासिनाम् ॥१०७।। जीवे ब्राह्मणशापं च देवानामपि कोपनम्। शुक्र यक्षीकृतं रोगं ब्रह्मराक्षसपीडनम् ॥१०८।। मन्दे तु भूतनाथानां शैवानां पीडनम् तथा। राहौ सर्वक्रृतं रोगं केतौ चाण्डालदैवतम्॥१०९।। मान्दौ प्रेतकृतं रोगं प्रवदेन्मतिमान् नरः ॥११०॥ Stanzas 106 to 110 .- According to Santhana Deepika, the different planets in the houses of harm cause troubles due to the wrath of different devatas thus: the Sun-Saiva Bhutas; the Moon- Durga and Dharma Daiva; Mars-Subrahmanya and Bhairava; Mercury-Gandharva, Yaksha and other celestial denizens; Jupiter-Brahmins and gods; Venus-Yaksha and Brahma Rakshasa; Saturn-Sasta, Kirata and five Bhuthas; Rahu- Serpents; Ketu-Chandala Devatas; and Gulika- Pretas.

Houses of Harm 545

HOUSES OF HARM आरूढराशौ चर आयराशौ स्थिरे तु बाधा नवमे विचिन्त्या। तथोभये कामगृहे त्रयाणां केन्द्रेषु चैष।मिति केचिदाहु:

Stanza 111 .- According as Arudha falls in movable, fixed or common signs, the houses of harm happen to be the 11th, 9th or the 7th from the concerned Arudha Rasi. Some are of the opinion that the quadrants from these places are also houses of harm. NOTES If Arudha falls in Aries, the house of harm is Aquarius. If Arudha is Taurus, the house of harm is Capricorn. If Gemini is Arudha, then the house of harm is Sagittarius. According to some, the cardinal signs from the places mentioned in this stanza can also be considered house of harm. कुंभश्वराणामळिचापसिंदस्त्रीणामळिर्गावृषभस्य नक्र: । कुंभस्य कर्की मिथुनस्य धन्वी मीनस्य चापं खल बधकं स्यात् ॥११२।। Stanza 112 .- Aquarius is the 'house of harm' for all movable signs: Leo, Virgo, Scorpio and Sagittarius have Scorpio as house of harm. For 35

546 Prasna Marga

Taurus, it is Capricorn; for Aquarius it is Cancer; for Gemini and Pisces, Sagittarius is the source of harm. बाधानिरूपणे पक्षास्रय इत्येषु गृद्यताम्। आदिमोन्त्यश्र सर्वत्र ग्रह्मो वा मध्यम: क्वचित्॥ इति

Stanza 113 .- Thus, we see there are three distinct views regarding the fixing of houses of harm. Of these, the 1st and 3rd assignments are accepted by all. The 2nd is recognised by a few. पित्तोष्णेत्यादयः श्ोकाः प्रश्नानुष्ठानपद्धतौ। ये प्रागुग्विषये प्रोक्ताश्रिन्तयेदिह तानपि।११४।। Stanza 114 .- Certain stanzas from Anushtana Paddhathi, have already been given. They may also be utilised in this context.

ASCERTAINING THE "DRISHTI BADHA" बाधकाधिपतिर्लगनं लग्नेशं वा यदीक्षते। त्रिदशादीक्षणेनापि माधा स्यादष्टिसम्भवा॥११५।। Stanza 115 .- If the lord of harm aspects Lagna or the lord of Lagna, there is Drishti Badha. By aspect is meant the special aspects also.

Ascertaining the Drishti Badha 547

NOTES

According to some, all aspects, including the special ones of Saturn and Mars, should be taken into considora- tion. If the aspects are partial, the badha will also be partial. For example, Lagna is Aries and the Sun, as badhaka graha is in Aquarius. The Sun's aspect on Lagna is only 1/3rd. The extent of badha or affliction is accordingly limited.

बाधकस्थानगेसेशे तद्द्वयाघिपयोर्मियः ।

योगे दृष्टौ च वक्तव्या नावा दष्टिसमुङ्गवा॥११६।।

Stanza 116 .- If the lord of the 7th is in the house of harm or both the lords join or mutually aspect, it must be inferred that there is Drishti Badha. NOTES

If the lord of the 7th and the lord of house of harm join or in mutual aspect, the affliction obtains. Some aver that here, 8th house aspect alone is to be considered.

चरराशियुते लग्ने धरासुतयुते मदे।

लग्ने सहितपापे च देवतादर्शनाद्रजा॥११७॥

Stanza 117 .- If Lagna being a movable sign is joined by an evil planet and Mars occupies the 7th house, then the affliction is due to the malefic aspect of Devatas.

548 Prasna Marga

NOTES Some commentators imply a malefic's association with lord of Lagna instead of a malefic occupying Lagna. शुभेतरयुते लग्ने सप्तमस्थे शनैश्वरे। चन्द्रे पापग्रहैदष्टे पिशाचालोकनाद्रजा॥। इति ॥११८।।

Stanza 118 .- If Lagna is occupied by planets other than benefics, Saturn joins the 7th house and the Moon is aspected by malefics, then the disease or affliction is due to Pisachas. NOTES Here the Moon's affliction in general either by aspect or association should be considered. The above 2 slokas are from Santana Deepika. लग्नेशबन्धुर्यदि बाधकेशो रन्तु निहन्तं यदि तस्य शत्रुः। भोक्तुं समश्वेद्ग्रहपिडनं स्या देवं त्रिधा दैवविदो वदन्ति ॥११९। Stanza 119 .- If the lords of harm and Lagna are friendly, the object of the Devatas in afflict- ing the person is to enjoy ; if inimical, the object is to kill; and if natural, the object is to eat and drink. The sources of the trouble should be minutely examined. अन्ये तु लग्नेश्ररदृष्टयुक्ते रन्तु निहन्तुं मृतिषष्ठपाभ्याम् बाघाधिपेन्यैरिह भोक्तुमेवं ग्राह्यौ विरोधे सति पूर्वपक्ष: ।।१२०॥।

Ascertaining the Drishti Badha 549

Stanza 120 .-- According as the lord of harm is associated with or aspected by the lord of Lagna, or lords of 6 or 8 or lord of any other house, the intention of the Devata is to enjoy, kill or eat and drink. This is the opinion of some others. The effect of "any other lord" should be considered in the context of the previous stanza.

NOTES As per stanza 120, if the lord of harm is joined by the lord of Lagna, enjoyment is the motive of the Devata. If lord of harm is with the lord of 6 or 8, destruction is the motive. If the lord of badhaka is connected with any other lord, the motive is eating and drinking. If lord of house of harm is with the lord of the 5th and suppose the lord of the 5th is an enemy, under such a circumstance, even though according to this sloka, the motive is eating and drinking, the motive should be considered as destruction. Here, one should fall back on stanza 119, and consider the friendly, inimical or neutral nature of the lord of other signs (than Lagna, 6th or 8th) towards lord of harm. शुक्र्क्षगोथ तदष्ो बाधकस्थानगो ग्रह्दः। यदि भार्योद्द्धवं विद्याद्धार्याभर्तृसमागमे ॥१२१।

Stanza 121 .- If a planet in the house of harm is aspected by Venus or happens to be in a sign of Venus, then it must be inferred that the Devatas attacked the person while he was in intimacy with his wife.

550 Prasna Marga

PLACE OF ATTACK

दापासम्भवदेश्स्तु वाघकस्थानराशिना। बाऱ्यो मेषादिराशीनां प्रदेशान् कथयाम्यतः ॥१२२।। Stanza 122 .- The place from which the attack comes is signified by the sign which hap- pens to be the 'house of harm'. मेषस्य घात्वाकररलभूमि: कुल्याप्रदेशो भुजगालयश्च । पूर्वप्रदेशो वृषभस्य पश्चात्कृषीवलक्षत्रसुरम्यभूमिः

Stanza 123 .- The places signified by the dif- ferent signs are: Aries-gold and silver mines, diamond mines, canals and serpent's abode. Taurus-all places mentioned for Aries and farm houses, fields of cultivation and beautiful spots. उद्यानदेवालयरतभूमिर्यमस्य रम्यं प्रवदन्ति तज्ज्ञाः। देवाङ्नावासतटाकरम्यं जलान्तिकं कर्कटकस्य राशे:

Stanza 124-Gemini-parks, places of wor- Ship, areas where precious stones abound and pleasure haunts. Cancer-neighbourhood of tanks and watery tracts and places where celestial nymphs frequent.

Place of Attack 551

स्थानं मृगेन्द्रस्य तु तुददेशो गोक्षेत्रदेवद्विजवास भूमि: देवालयाश्वद्विपमन्दिरान्विक्षेत्रेषु वासो वनितागृहस्य ।१२५।। Stanza 125 .- Leo-places frequented by lions and other wild animals, elevated places, cow- sheds, places frequented by Brahmins and Devas. Virgo-temples, horse and elephant stables, sea- coast and ladies' apartments. जूकस्य वीथ्यापणकाननेषु कीटस्य वल्मीकतटाकयोश्र।

आरामसेनागृदयुद्धभूमिसालेषु वासो नवमस्य राशे: ।१२६॥। Stanza 126 .- Libra-streets, bazaars and forests. Scorpio-anthills and ponds. Sagittarius- rest houses, military barracks, battlefields and walls and embarkments.

नदीमुखारण्यनिषादवासे प्वेणस्य राशेर्घटभस्य तद्वद्। श्वभ्राम्वुपूर्णामरमन्दिरेषु झषस्य वासः कथितो मुनीन्द्रैः।।१२७।।

Stanza 127 .- Capricorn-river deltas, forests, areas inhabited by wild tribes; Aquarius -same places as Capricorn; and Pisces-deep caves, watery places and temples.

552 Prasna Marga

वनं क्षेत्रं पुरं कुल्या शैलग्रामापणाः क्रमात्।

कूपकान्तारजलघितटाकसरितस्त्वजाद् इति ॥१२८।

Stanza 128 .- The twelve signs from Aries onwards govern in regular order forests, fields, cities, canals, hills, towns, market places, wells, forests, oceans, lakes and rivers.

EVIL ARISING FROM WORDS

बाधकेश्ररदृष्टो वा युक्तो वा यदि वाक्पतिः। तहि रोगं वदेश्नणां जिद्दादोषसमुद्धवम् ॥१२९।।

Stanza 129 .- If the lord of the 2nd is asso- ciated with or aspected by the 'lord of harm', the person suffers disease due to Jihwa Dosha.

NOTES Till now Drishtibadha was discussed. Now the discussion will be centred on Jihwa Dosha or evil arising from words.

बालग्रहामिया बावन्तेर्भकानेव केवलम्।

प्रसिद्धा: पूतनाधा ये तत्पीडाथ निगद्यते ॥१३०॥

Stanza 130 .- There are some Bala grahas which trouble only children. Now the important of them such as Puthana, etc., will be elaborated.

Food Poisoning 553

"BALA GRAHA" AFFLICTION मन्दचन्द्रजयोरेको यद्ा मिथुननक्रयोः । बाधकस्थान संस्थश्रेद्धालपीडां विनिर्दिशेत् ॥१३१।। Stanza 131 .- If either Mercury or Saturn occupies the house of harm or if Gemini or Capri. corn happens to be the house of harm, then the child suffers from the affliction of Bala Grahas. NOTES This verse is applicable only in queries bearing on children. FOOD POISONING मित्रे पुत्रे सपमे वाष्टमे वा मान्दौ वाहौ तिष्टति क्ष्वेळ्भुक्ति: । तल्नस्थे चारीश्ररेरिप्रयुक्ता विज्ञातव्या सा न चेदैवयोगात् ॥१३२।। Stanza 132 .- If Gulika or Rahu occupies 4th, 5th, 7th or 8th, the disease is due to poisonous matter in the food. If the lord of the 6th joins this combination, then the poisoning will be due to enemies. आरूढे सिंहराशौ कटुकरसयुते नागवल्लीदलाद्े भौमक्षेत्रे तथाज्ये मधुनि बुधगृहे तक्रदभोः सितर्क्े। क्ष्वेळे वा कादळे वा विषममरगुरोर्धाम्नि निक्षिप्य दत्तं पूपादौ मन्दगेहे लबणरसवति द्रव्य इन्दोर्द्रवे वा ।१३३

554 Prasna Marga

Stanza 133 .- The poison will have been administered mixed up with a hot substance, ghee, honey, curds, milk and fruits, cooked food or saltish juice according as Arudha Lagna happens to fall respectively in the signs of the Sun, Mars, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn or the Moon. NOTES If Arudha Lagna is Leo, the poison has been given in some hot substances; if it is Aries or Scorpio, in ghee; Gemini and Virgo stand for honey; Taurus and Libra govern curd or buttermilk; Sagittari us and Pisces stand for milk and fruits; Capricorn and Aquarius stand for bread and other cooked food such as sweetmeats; and Cancer stands for saltish foods or liquid substances. लग्नेशारीरासम्बन्धे हिंसायौ गरळार्पणम्। लग्नेशास्तेशसम्बन्घे स्याद्वशीकरणाय तद्।।१३४।। Stanza 134 .- If the lord of Lagna is connec- ted with the lord of 6th, then the object of giving poison is to harm the person. If the lord of Lagna is connected with the lord of 7th, then it is intended to win over the person. TROUBLES FROM ENEMIES दोषत्रितयसम्भूताः केवलं बधाया कृताः। द्वैविध्यमिति रोगाणां तद्धेद: प्राङनिगद्यते ।१३५।। Stanza 135 .- As already detailed, there are two types of disease viz., those caused by the

Troubles from Enemies 555

disorder of thridoshas and those brought about by mantric machinations of enemies which in their turn provoke the thridoshas. NOTES Now the discussion will relate to satrubadha or troubles from enemies.

आरूढे प्रवले वदन्ति सुधियो रोगोद्भवं बाधया प्राग्लग्ने प्रबले तथामयगणा वाच्यास्त्रिदोषोद्भवाः । तद्वत्षष्ठपनौ वलिन्यपि गदान् बादोद्भवान्निर्दिशे- द्रन्ध्रेशेऽतिबले त्रिदोषजनिता रोगास्स्युरेवं द्विधा ॥१३६।। Stanza 136 .- If Mercury is stronger, the disease is due to Aabhichara. If Lagna is stron- ger, the disease is due to the disorder of thri- doshas. If the lord of the 6th is stronger, the disease is due to enemies. If the lord of the 8th is stronger, then the disease is due to disturbance in the thridoshas.

व्याधीनामीशरो ज्ञेय: षष्ठपो रन्घ्रपस्तथा। बाधया सबलेरीशे रन्घ्रेशे रुक्त्रिदोषतः ॥१३७।। Stanza 137 .- The lords of disease are the rulers of the 6th and 8th. If the former is stron- ger, the disease is due to enemies. If the latter is strong, it is due to thridoshas.

556 Prasna Marga

NATURE OF TROUBLE

बाधेशस्यारिमे वा रिपुभवनपतेर्बाधकर्क्षे यदि स्ाद्योगो वा दर्शनं वा पुनरथ यदि वा तौ मिथः क्षेत्रसंस्थौ। बाधाधीशारिनाथावपि यदि सहितौ पश्यतोन्योव्यतो वा शत्रोस्तत्रामिचारं वदतु बहतया लक्षणानां स भूयान्

Stanza 138 .- If the lord of the house of harm occupies or aspects the 6th; or when the lord of the 6th joins or aspects the house of lord of harm; or when these interchange houses; or occupy the same house; or when these aspect each other, it should be inferred that the afflic- tions come from the enemies. NOTES

The disease or affliction will be due to enemies under the following conditions: (1) Lord of house of harm ocupies the 6th: (2) lord of house of harm aspects the 6th ; (3) lord of 6th joins the house of lord of harm; (4) lord of 6th aspects the house of lord of harm ; (5) lords of 6th and house of harm interchange ; (6) lords of the 6th and house of harm are together ; and (7) when the lord of the 6th aspects the lord of the house of harm.

महाभिचारो वक्तव्तः शुभश्चेद्वाधकाधिप:। पापश्रेत क्षुद्र एष स्यादभिचार इति द्विधा॥१३९।।

Who is the Enemy 557

Stanza 139 .- The affliction is of two kinds : If the lord of house of harm is a benefic, it is mahabhichara. If the lord is a malefic, it is kshudrabhichara.

महाभिचार एष स्याद्वैरिभिर्मारणादिकम्। यत् कर्म क्रियते श्ुद्रो यत् कीलादि निखन्यते ॥१४०॥ Stanza 140 .- Mahabhichara consists of incantations calculated to cause death, etc. Kshudrabhichara consists of burying enchanted substances underground to bring about ruin.

WHO IS THE ENEMY? रिपोश्च तन्नियोगाद्यो मारणादिकृदस्य च। जातिद्वयोश्च वक्तव्या तत्प्रकारोथ कथ्यते॥१४१॥

Stanza 141 .- When it is discovered that there is Aabhichara, we have to find who the enemy is and who did the work for him. The caste to which such persons belong is explained in the next verse. वर्णो यः पष्ठराशेः स भवति हि रीपो: षष्ठराशीशितुवां वाच्यो बाधार्यराशेरथ तदधिपतेर्वापि वर्णः प्रयोक्तु:। विप्रः स्यान्मीनरशिर्द्धरणिपतिरजो वैश्य उक्षा नृयुग्मं शू द्रः, स्यात्सन्निकोणं पुनरिद्द विद्दगा एव विप्रादिनोक्ता: ।१४२॥

558 Prasna Marga

Stanza 142 .- The caste and occupation gov- erned by the 6th house or by its lord indicate the caste of the enemy. Similarly, the caste governed by the 'house of harm' or its lord is the caste of his accomplice. Pisces, Aries, Taurus and Gemini and their trines signify respectively Brahmins. Kshatriyas, Vaisyas and Sudras.

बाधकाधिपसम्बन्धो दृष्टया योगेन वा यदि। षष्टमस्य रिपोर्वर्ण षष्ठराश्युदितं वदेत् ॥१४३।। Stanza 143 .- If the lord of the house of harm is in any way connected with the 6th house, then the enemy's caste is that of the sixth house.

बाधकस्थानतन्राथयोगद्ष्टयादयो यदि। षष्ठेशस्य रिपोर्वर्णस्तर्हि षष्ठाधिपोदितः ॥१४४।

Stanza 144 .- If the lord of the house of harm is in any way connected with the lord of 6th, the enemy's caste is that of the lord of the 6th. पष्ठाधिपतिसम्बन्धो बाधकस्य गृहस्य चेत्। योगादिना प्रयोक्तु स्थाद्वर्णो बाधकमोदित: ॥१४५।। Stanza 145 .- If the lord of the 6th is bound up with the house of harm, then the accomplice in the deed belongs to the caste governed by the house of harm.

Another view 559

बाधकेशस्य चेत्षष्ठुषष्ठेशेक्षान्वयादयः। वाघकाधिपतेर्वण प्रथोक्तुस्तरहि निर्दिशेद् ॥१४६।। Stanza 146 .- If the lord of the 6th is bound up with the lord of the house of harm, then the accomplice belongs to the caste of the lord of the house of harm. विप्रावसुरसुरेडथौ भौमार्कौ क्षत्रियौ शशी वैश्यः। शू द्रस्तु बुधो मन्दश्ान्तरवर्णा वराहमिहिरमते ॥१४७॥ Stanza 147 .- According to Varahamihira, Jupiter and Venus are Brahmins, the Sun and Mars-Kshatriyas, the Moon-Vysya, Mercury- Sudra and Saturn-mixed caste.

ANOTHER VIEW

विप्रोत्तम: स्याद्गुरुरत्र शुक्रो विप्राथमोन्यग्रहरा- शियोगात्। भेदोनयोः स्ययादथ सार्वभौमो भानु: कुजो माण्डलि- कश्च वेद्य: ॥१४८।।

Stanza 148 .- According to others, Jupitor is an exalted Brahmin while Venus is an ordinary Brahmin. When these join other planets, their qualities change. The Sun is the emperor, while Mars governs kingship.

560 Prasna Marga

भूमिजोनुपवीती स्मद्राजतुल्योथ बोधनः। विद्वाननुपवीति सदेवदास इतीर्यताम् ॥१४९। Shanza 149 .- Mars also signifies distingui- shed persons with no sacred thead, Mercury governs learned men and temple servents with no saered thread. अच्चावीनी च पर्यन्तस्थान मेदाच्छनेरपि। देवदासादि चण्डालपयन्त जातयः स्मृताः ॥इति॥१५०॥ Stanza 150 .- Saturn in exaltation rules over temples employees while in debilitation he rules over low-caste people. विप्राह्मयौ गुरुसितौ नृपत्ती कुजाकों। वेश्यः शशि शशि सुतो वृषळोर्क जोन्त्यः।इति ॥१५१॥ Stanza 151 .- Mahvacharya says that Jupitor and Venus represent Brahmins: the Sun and Mars, Kshatriyas; the Moon, Vaisyas; Mercury, Sudras; and Saturn, low cast people. कृष्णीयञ्च। विप्रौ भृगुदेवगुरु क्षत्रियभावो दिवाकरोर्वीजो। वैश्यौ बुधचन्द्रमसौ शनैश्ररः शू द्रसङ्करकृत् ।इति।।१५२॥ Stanza 152 .- According to Krishneeya, Jupi- tor and Venus govern Brahmins, the Sun and Mars Kshatriyas, the Moon and Mercury Vaisyas; and Saturn Sudras and the mixed caste.

Food Poisoning 561

अर्कस्य शुक्रो राजो वा शू द्रो वा मण्डलाघिप:। इन्द्रोर्विप्रोथवा वैश्यो भौमस्य द्विजशू द्रकौ ।१५३।।

Stanza 153 .- In Sarasamuchaya, it is said that the Sun and Venus govern kings of all castes, the Moon governs Brahmins or Vaisyas, Mars governs Brahmins and Sudras.

सौम्यस्य शूद्रो वैश्यो वा शने: शूद्रोन्त्यजोपि वा। जीवस्य विग्रः शुक्रस्य शूद्रो विप्रोथवा स्त्रियः नीचारिमूढगैरेतनींचजातिं विनिर्दिशेत् ।।इति॥।१५४।।

Stanza 154 .- Mercury governs Vaisyas and Sudras, Saturn governs Sudras and low caste people. Jupiter governs Brahmins and Venus Brahmins, Sudras and women. When these planets are in inimical places debilitation or combustion, they govern only very low types

शत्रु प्रयोकातृवर्णोक्तावस्तिग्रन्थन्तरं च तद्। लिख्यते शत्रुताहेतुस्तत्रापि च मतान्तर म् ॥१५५॥। Stanza 155 .- With regard to the enemy's caste, there are other views by which it can be determined. 36

562 Prasna Marga

षष्ठेशजातिं द्विषेतोमिदध्यात् कर्मेशजातिं खलु कर्मकर्तृः। हेतुं च पष्ठेशसमार्श्रितर्क्षनाथानुरूपं तमिहामिवास्ये ॥१५६॥।

Stanza 156 .- The caste of the enemy is signified by the lord of the 6th, and the lord of the 10th signifies the caste of the accomplice. The motive for Abhichara Karma corresponds with the nature of the lord of the sign occupied by the lord of the 6th. पष्ठशो यदि भौमवेश्मनि बुर्धैर्हेतुर्महीत्युच्यते बैधे काश्चनमार्यभे पणफलान्यच्छस्य रुप्यं तथा। वासो धान्यचतुष्पदाश्च शनिमे चण्डालदासायुधं चन्द्रे भाजनमम्बु वार्कभवने ताअ्रं च मूलं फलम्। ।।९५७।।

ENEMY'S MOTIVE

Stanza 157 .- According as the lord of the 6th occupies the sign of Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, the Moon or the Sun, the motive behind the deed happens to be lands, gold, fruits, silver, clothes, cattle or grain, servants, low caste people and weapons, vessels or water, or roots and fruits.

Enemy's Motive 563

लग्नादिकेपु भावेषु यत्रास्ते बाधकेधरः । भावमेनं निभित्तीकृत्याभिचारं विनिर्दिशेत् ॥१५८।।

Stanza 158 .- The motive of the enemy in resorting to Abhichara can also be gleaned according to the nature of the house occupied by the lord of house of harm.

NOTES The view adumbrated in this Stanza is from 'other works'. The house containing the lord of house of harm reveals the motive behind the Abhichara. Thus if the lord of harm is in the 2nd, the motive is money: if in the 4th, property is the motive. In this way, the motive should be ascertained.

धात्वाधिभखेटाना मुदयेनारातिबाधकेशाभ्याम्। आश्रितभाभ्यामथवा धात्वाद्या हेतवश्चिन्त्याः ॥१५९।।

Stanza 159 .- Whether the motive behind the enemy's deeds springs up from Dhatu, Moola or Jeeva, can be ascertained by examining the rising sign, planets in the rising sign, lord of the sixth, lord of the house of harm, the house occupied by the lord of sixth, the sign occupied by lord of Lagna. Whether the enemy belongs to the same family as the querist or to outside family or whether the enemy is a near or a

564 Prasna Marga

distant relative. should be carefully ascertained by noting the Lagna.

शत्रुः स्यात्सजनश्चरे स्थिरगृहे लग्ने सुहृच्छात्रवो द्वन्द्वे स्वादितरोथवा गृहपतौ षष्ठस्थिते बान्धवः ।

पित्रेशे तनयादिकोथ मदपे भार्याथ धर्माधिपे पित्राद्या गुरवो भवन्ति रिपवः शापोथवैषामिह ॥१६०।

Stanza 160 .- If the Lagna is a movable sign, the enemy is of the same kith and kin; if a fixed sign he is related; if common, the enemy is an outsider. According as the 6th house is occupied by the lord of the 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th, the enemy who is the cause of trouble will be a relative, son, wife or father or preceptor.

सहवासी स्थिरे लग्ने द्वन्द्वगेन्तिकदेशगः । चरे दूरगतः शत्रुज्ञेयः स्निग्धजनोथवा ॥१६१।।

Stanza 161 .- If the Lagna is a fixed sign, the enemy is a sahavasi (lives with the native); if it is a common sign, he is a neighbour; and if movable, the enemy belongs to a distant place, or is an old friend.

Ideniifying the Enemy 565

IDENTIFYING THE ENEMY

शत्रोर्दिग्रिपुनाथवैरिगृहयोरेकस्य वर्णोक्तवद्वाधाराशित- दीश योरितरदिग्वाच्या प्रयोक्कुस्तथा। प्रागाद्येत्यमुनोदिता विहगादिकूप्रागादितो राशि- दित्कासां दूरसमीपमध्यगतताजाद्याप्तभां शैस्तयोः ॥१६२॥ Stanza 162 .- The direction and caste of the enemy and how far or near he is, should be ascertained from the 6th house or its lord. Similarly, the direction and caste of the mantric and how far or near he is, should be read from the Badhaka house or its lord.

NOTES

Whether it is the 6th lord or 6th house and whether ft is the badhaka house or its lord, should be ascertained on the basis of Stanza 140 to 143. The directions and castes allotted to different Rasis are:

Rasi Direction Caste

Aries East Kshatriya Taurus South Vaisya Gemini West Sudra Cancer North Brahmin Leo East Kshatriya Virgo South Vaisya Libra West Sudra Scorpio North Brabmin Sagittarius East K shatriya Capricorn South Vaisya Aquarius West Sudra Pisces North Brahmin

566 Prasna Marga

If the Rasi and Navamsa in which the 6th house falls or the 6th lord occupics are movable, the enemy or mantric will be far off; if fixed, near; if common, not too far and pot too near. If the said Rasi and Navmsa are different, then, the stronger of the two should be taken.

चरे विलग्ने रिपुनायदृष्टे कुजे ज लामे स्थिरमे च धरमे। इन्देस्तराशौ प्रवदेनराणां रोगं रिपूर्णा कृतमभिचारैः

Stanza 163 .- If the Ascendant happens to be a movable sign with Mars in the 11th, or a fixed sign with Mars in the 9th, or a common sign with Mars in the 7th and is aspected by the lord of the 6th, the native has sickness through Abhichara resorted to by an enemy.

होरानाथयुते भौमे लग्नकेन्द्रगतेथवा। रिपुनाथे विलग्नस्थे चाभिचार उदीर्यताम् ॥१६४।। शत्रुस्थानाधिपे लग्ने कर्मण्यस्नं गतेथवा। लग्ने भौमयुते दृष्टे वाभिचार उर्दीयरताम्॥१६५।। सुखभावगते केनौ कर्मलग्नगतेथवा। लग्ने भौमयुते दृष्टे वाभिचार उर्दीर्यतम् ॥१६६॥। सुखभावगते केतौ कर्मलग्नगतेथवा। केन्द्रे मान्दिसमायुक्ते रोग: क्षुदाभिचारजः ॥१६७।।

Identifying the Enemy 567

Stanzas 164 to 167 .- The cause of sickness will be Abhichara under the following combina- tions. Mars in the Ascendant or in a quadran- gular house and the lord of the 6th is in the rising sign; lord of the 6th in the Ascendant, 7th or 10th and Mars in or aspecting the Lagna; Ketu in the 4th, 10th or Ascendant and Mars in or aspecting Lagna; and Ketu in the 4th, 10th or Ascendant and Mandi occupying a kendra.

NOTES

Stanzas 163 to 167 are from Santhana Deepika. These stanzas give combinations to predict on the basis of the Prasna Chart, the source of sickness. The stanzas are easy to understand and do not need detailed elucidation. How- ever, I should like to make a few observations. In all the combinations listed, importance is given to the 6th lord. According to Stanza 163, the 6th lord should aspect the Ascendant which should have Mars placed in the 11th, 9th or 7th, according as the ascending sign is movable, fixed or common. Stanzas 164 to 167 also require a certain disposition of Mars, Ketu or Gulika and the 6th lord involving only the Ascendant and the other quadrangular houses.

MEANS ADOPTED BY ENEMIES

मारणोचाटनाद्यर्थ रिपुभिर्यन्निधीयते। चूर्णादिक तदुदारप्रकारोथ निगद्यते ।१६८।।

568 Prasna Marga

Stanza 168 .- To bring about death, exile, dissensions, madness, or ruin, marana and uchha- tana-enemies prepare powders and other enchanted things and conceal them under the carth or in some hidden places.

NOTES The astrologer will have to inform the client where these can be found, so that they can be removed.

WHERE THE KSHUDRA IS KEPI

उदयारूढचन्द्राणां गुळिके केन्द्रसांस्थिते। मन्दयुक्तेथ दष्टे वा क्षुद्रं रिपुकृतं वदेत् ॥१६९।। Stanza 169 .- If Gulika occupies a quadrant from Lagna or Arudha Lagna or the Moon and is joined or aspected by Saturn, then the incanted articles (Kshudras) will be kept buried under the earth.

मान्दिश्तुर्थराशौ वा चतुर्थाशेथवा स्थितः। यदि क्षुद्रं गृहे वाच्यं जलराश्यंशयोर्जले ॥१७०।।

Stanza 170 .- If Mandi is in the 4th house or Navamsa, then the Kshudra will have been de- posited inside the house. If the 4th house or Navamsa is watery, it will be kept immersed under water.

Containers Used 569

NOTES

Here the situation of Mandi in the 4th is with reference to Lagna, Arudha or the Moon. According to some, Mandi-whatever Bhava he may occupy-if it is a watery Rasi or Navamsa, the place of deposit shall be under water.

वर्गोचमांशगे तस्मिन्रभयत्र वदेदिदम्। मन्देन मान्दिना वापि युक्तेहौ सर्पसन्निधौ॥१७१॥

Stanza 171 .- If Mandi is in Vargottama, the Kshudra will be in two places-within the house and under water. If Rahu joins Mandi or Saturn, the substance is hidden near an ant hill.

तत्केन्द्रे चेद्रविवृक्षे केदारे भूमिजो यदि। जीवश्चाद्गृह एव स्वाच्छुक्रश्चेच्छयनालये ॥१७२।।

Stanza 172 .- According as a kendra (from Mandi or Saturn) is occupied by the Sun. Mars, Jupiter or Venus, the Kshudra is kept respectively in the branches of trees, in open fields, in the house itself or in the bedroom.

CONTAINERS USED मन्दश्रेन्मलम्त्ादि परिद्दारोचितावनौ। मान्दिर्मेषत्रिकोणस्थस्तदंशस्योथवा यदि।१७३।।

570 Prasna Marga

शिर:कपाले निहितं व्यघ्रस्माखुभुजोथवा। गोत्रिकोणे घटे वाच्यं वंशादौ मिथुनस्य चेत् ।।१७४।।

कर्कित्रिकोणसस्यश्चेत्कपालं निहितं च तत्। मान्दौसंहारनक्षत्रस्थिते वाच्या हि पुत्रिका।१७५।।

कीटराशिस्येते यन्त्रं चतुरंघ्रयंशकोस्थि च। एषां संख्या तु विज्ञेया मान्दिभुक्तांशकैस्समा ॥१७६।।

Stanzas 173 to 176 .- If Saturn is in a kendra from Mandi, the Kshudra will be kept in latrines and urinals. According as Mandi is in Aries, Taurus, Gemini or Cancer (or their trines), the Kshndra will be kept in the skins of tigers and cats, water pots, bamboo vessels or cocoanut shells respectively. If Mandi is in Samhara Nakshatras (destructive asterisms), the Kshudra will be in the form of an image of a human. If Mandi is in Scorpio, it is in the form of an amu- let. If it occupies the Navamsas of quadrupeds, it is in the form of bones. The number so kept or buried can be known from the expired number of Navamsa in the Rasi occupied by Gulika.

NOTES Sambara Nakshatras are Krittika and Aridra.

Another View 571

From the description of the methods for finding the nature and source of sickness given in these stanzas, it is clear that at the time the author lived, the practice of causing barm through incantations, spells and other forms of base practices was widespread in Kerala. Even now not only in Kerala but also in other parts of India, resort is being had to such methods to cause harm to one's ene- mies. Some of the Kerala astrologers whom I had discussions with, say that these astrological principles pertaining to discovery of abhichara given in this work are almost always foolproof and that even now people consult astrologers on these lines.

The number of articles (Kshudras) on w hich the spell in cast corresponds to the number of Navamsas gained by Mandi in the Rasi he occupies. According to some, the total number of Navamsas from the beginning of Aries Navamsa should be considered. If for example, Mandi is in Libra Navamsa (Cancer sign) according to the first view, the number will be the 4, 3 Navamsas having completed. According to the others, the number will be 7, couating from Aries. Here again the figure has to be doubled if the amsa lord is exalted, etc. ANOTHER VIEW ऊर्ध्वास्ये बाधकाधीशे निहितं भूरूहोपरि। निखातं कावधो वक्ते तिर्यग्बदनगः स चेत् ।।१७७।।

पाषाणद्रममध्यदिन्यस्तं चूर्णादिकं वदेद्। बाघेज्तत्स्वराशिम्यां दुमतत्स्यप्रदेशयोः ॥१७८॥

572 Prasna Marga

शुभोशुभर्क्षा इत्येतेनोदा चोत्तमनीचता। बाधकाधिपतिः स्वांशान्नवांशे यावति स्थितः ।१न९॥।

तत्संख्या: स्युर्द्रमास्तत्र मध्यागांशकपोदिताः। तेषु बाधशवृक्षो वा समीपे वास्य तन्थितम् ।।।।१८०।।

Stanzas 177 to 180 .- If the lord of harm occupies Urdhwamukha Rasi, then the 'charm' has been placed on the tops of trees; if it is Adho- mukha Rasi, it is under the earth; if it is Thiryang- mukha, it is kept inside stones or logs of woods etc. By examining the Rasi held by the Badhaka, the family to which the trecs wherein the Kshudra is deposited belongs should be known. If the Rasi is that of a benefic, the tree also belongs to a good family; if not the reverse. Count from the Navamsa owned by lord of Badhaka to the Navamsa occupied by him. This number gives the trees that grow there. Similarly is to be ascertained whether the Kshudra is in a particular tree or near a tree, etc.

NOTES The nature of the tree can also be learnt from the Navamsa, as for example, Aries indicates a tree with thorns, Taurus a tree with flowers and Gemini a tree without fruits and so on.

Anather Vieus 573

बाधेशे जलराशिस्थे सिन्धुनद्यादिकूलगम्। जले क्षिपं निखानं वा वाच्यमूर्ध्बाननादिभिः ॥१८१।।

Stanza 181 .- If the sign occupied by the lord of the house of harm is watery and it also happens to be Urdhwamukha, then the charm is kept on the bank of ariver or alake; if Adhomukha, buried under the waters; and if Thiryangmukha, has been allowed to float in the waters. अर्के वार्केण युक्ते वा बाधेशे देवसन्निधौ। चन्द्रे चन्द्रान्विते तोयप्रदेशे वाथ सोषरे ।१८२।।

कुजे वा कुजयुक्ते वा रमशाने वाग्निसन्निधौ। युद्धोव्यां वैवमाद्येषु शशिजेवाथ तद्युते ॥१८३।। विद्याभ्यासविहारोर्व्यामय जीवे च तद्युते। देशान्ते कोशगेहे वा ततः शुक्रे च तद्युते ॥१८४।

शय्यागृहे वा ग्रामान्ते ततो मन्दे च तद्युते। उच्छिष्टादिपरित्यागस्थाने चूर्णादिकं स्थितम् ।१८५।। Stanzas 182 to 185 .- The Kshudra will be found to have been buried respectively near temples; watery tracts or places where springs sprout; burial grounds, battle fields or fiery places ; places of learning or amusement; treasure-

574 Prasna Marga

houses or state boundaries; village boundaries or bed-rooms; and dirty or deserted places, accord- ing as the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Jupiter, Venus or Saturn happens to be either lord of house of harm or occupies the house of harm.

युक्ते तस्मिन् राहुकेतुगुळिकैः सर्पसन्निधौ। दिगत्र रिपुनाथस्य वाच्या वा बाधकेशितु: ॥१८६।।

बाधकाधिपसंयुक्तराशेरण्यंशकस्य वा। अथत्रोद्धार्यमेव स्याद्वाघेशे चरराशिगे॥। उभयस्थे प्रयत्नेन नोद्धार्य तास्थिरस्यिते ।।१८७।।

Stanza 186 & 187 .- If the lord of harm is conjoined with Rahu, Ketu or Gulika, then it has been kept in the serpent's abode or its vici- nity. The direction where the Kshudra is kept should be ascertained from the lord of 6, lord of house of harm or lord of the Rasi and Navamsa occupied by the Badhaka lord. If the lord of harm is in a movable sign, the Kshudra can be easily removed; if he is in a common sign, it can be taken out with effort; and if he is in a fixed sign, it cannot be removed at all.

Anather View 575

क्षुद्रं तत्स्ियितिदेशं चैवं ज्ञात्वा, तदुक्तविधिना तद्। त्यक्त्वा रक्ष्यं स्थलमथ महामिचारप्रतिक्रियां वक्ष्ये

Stanza 188 .- Having ascertained the Kshudra, its location and whether it can be removed, the effects should be destroyed according to sastraic injunctions. I shall now describe the remeđies for Mahabhichara. REMOVING THE MAHABHICHARA युक्त्वा षष्टपति विलग्नपतिना यो राशिरत्रागतः सादित्यान्वितवीक्षितो यदि बलिं कुय।दघोराहयम्। कार्य चन्द्रमसा कपालहवनं स्वाच्चक्रहोमं विदा कर्तव्यं प्रतिकारकर्म गुरुणा प्रोक्तं तदेवार्किणा ॥१८९।।

भूमिजेक्षितयुतथ योगभे भूतमारणवलिर्विधीयताम्। खङ्गरावणबलिं करोतु वा कृत्तिकाबलिमथातनोतु वा ।१९०॥ शुक्रान्वितेक्षिते योगे प्रतिकारषलिक्रिकयाम्। करोतु शान्तये व्याघेर्बेलिं वा भूतमारणम् ॥१९१।। Stanza 189 to 191 .- According as the Rasi arrived at by adding the longitudes of the lords of the Ascendant and the 6th, is conjoined with or

576 Prasana Marga

aspected by the Sun. the Moon, Mercury, Jupiter or Saturn, Mars or Venus, the remedial measures to be resorted to are respectively Aghorabali, Kapala Homa, Chakra Homa, Prathikarabali, Bhuthamaranabali or Khanga Ravanabali or Krittikabali, or Prathikara or Bhuthamaranabali.

NOTES l do not propose to explain in detail' these remedial measures. There are even now experts in this subject and they may be consulted.

According to stanzas 189 to 191, add the longitudes of the lord of Lagna and the lord of the 6th and find out which planet occupies or aspects the resulting sign and prescribe the remedies as follows :-

The Sun Aghorabali The Moon Kapala Homa Mars - Bhuta Maranabali, or Khangaravna bali or Krittika bali

Mercury - Chakra Homa

Jupiter - Prathikarabali

Venus Parthikarabali or Bhuthamaranaabli Saturn - Prathikarabali

अथवा दशमेनैव राशिना तद्गतेन वा वदष्टरा वा विहञ्ञेन विधीयन्तामिभा: क्रियाः ॥१९२।।

Removing the Mahaabichara 577

Stanza 192 .- Or the remedies must be pre- scribed by taking into consideration the planet occupying or aspecting the 10th from Arudha Lagna.

NOTES. If you find no association or aspect in the Rasi arrived at as per stanzas 189 to 191, then examine the 10th house from Arudha and see whether any planet joins or aspects it. Then recommend the above noted Balis. दूतोक्ताधक्षरे दीर्घे रोगशान्तिस्तु गानतः । हरस्वे भोजनपूजादैः संयुक्ते नृत्तकर्मणा ॥१९३। Stanza 193 .- If the Prasna Akshara (length of the question) of the messenger is long, remedy to be prescribed is music; if it is short, puja and feeding; and if it is neither long nore short, temple dancing. प्रोक्तः प्रतिक्रियाकर्तभेदो दृष्टयापि पृच्छताम्। प्रश्नानुष्ठानपद्धर्त्यां तत्प्रकारोथ कथ्यते ॥१९४॥। Stanza 194 .- In Prasnanushtana Paddhati, certain remedial measures have been suggested, based on the looks of the questioner. व्याधेः शान्तिर्भवति मुखजैर्दक्षिणोभ्वावलोके। प्रषुर्द्टषाविह्द पुनरधो देवतागायकैश्। 37

578 Prasna Marga

वामोर्द्धाथः सुदृढनिहितप्रेषणे तु प्रशस्तै- श्रण्डालानामपि तदधमैः सा निरुक्ता क्रमेण ॥१९५/ Stanza 195 .- If the questioner looks towards the right side in an upward direction, the reme- dies should be performed by Brahmins: if he looks down, by temple musicians; if he turns his eyes up on the left side, the high class amongst the low-born; if he looks down on the left, then the inferior amongst the low-born ones. बाधाभेदोत्र विज्ञेयः स्पर्शनेनापि पृच्छताम्। प्रायेण दृष्टिबाधायां खत्वेनदुपयुज्यते ॥१९६॥ Stanza 196 .- By closely observing the parts of the body the questioner is touching (sparsa) when he puts the query, the nature of the badha (affllction) can also be ascertained. DIFFERENT KINDS OF DEVATAS

वक्षो ललाटतलगुह्यतलानि नाभि प्रष्टा स्पृशेददि वदन्ति हि देवतार्तिम्। पार्श्वे करांगुळिगळे च भुजङ्गपीडां भूकर्णकक्षयुगळेषु पिशाचपीडाम् ।। इति १९७।।

Different Kinds of Devatas 579

Stanza 197 .- According to Anushtana Pad- dhati if the questioner feels with his hand his chest, forehead, private parts, and navel, then the man has troubles from devatas; if he touches his sides, back fingers and neck, then he is troubled by serpents; and if he touches his eye-brows, ears and arm-pits, he has trouble from pisachas. बाधकगततन्नाथग्रहतो जञेया हि देवतामेदाः । तदधिष्टितराश्यंशेरविभेदः स्यात्स कथ्यते तदनु ॥१९८।। Stanza 198 .- The different devatas causing affllication can be known by considering the planets owning or occupying the house of harm, as also on the basis of the Navamsas involving these lords.

सौम्यक्षाशकयोः स्थितो यदि भवेद्ाधाधिपः खालये संस्थाप्यान्वहमर्वितोत्तमजनैवधाकरी देवता। जीवर्क्षाशगयोः सुरालयगता मान्दे तु नीचार्चिता भीमोद्याननिवासिनी स यदि चेत्सांशेथवा खालये

Stanza 199 .- If the lord of the house of harm occupies the sign of Mercury or his Navamsa, the trouble is from deities worshipped by high- class people in their homes; if the house or

580 Prasna Marga

Navamsa of Jupiter, the trouble will be from deities worshipped in temples; if the house or Navamsa of Saturn, the trouble is from deities worshipped by low-class people; if his own house or Navamsa, the trouble is from deities having their abode in solitary gardens. दिवाकीत्यर्चिता वाच्या चामुण्डी सदकेतुना। पञ्च्मी बुधयुक्तन तत्क्षेत्रस्थेन चासृजा ॥२००॥ Stanza 200 .- If Mars owning the house of harm joins Ketu, then the deity is Chamundi; if he joins with or occupiés the signs of Mercury, the deity will be Panchami. भौमेन भैरवो घण्टाकर्ण इत्यादय: स्मृताः। वाच्या रक्तेश्वरी रक्तचामुण्डयति भयङ्करी ॥२०१।। Stanza 201 .- If Mars occupies odd signs or odd Navamsas, then the deities are Bhairava- Kanta Karna, etc,; if he is in even signs or Navam- sas, the deities are Rakteswari, Rakta Chamundi Atibhayakali, etc. काळी चेत्यादयस्त्वोजयुग्मराश्यंश भेदतः । ओजयुग्मत्वमेदे तु भांशयोर्द्विविधा अपि ।।इति ॥२०२॥ Stanza 202 .- Effects suggested in stanza 201 should be stated if the lord of harm occupies an

Different Kinds of Devatas 581

odd sign and an even Navamsa or an even sign and an odd Navamsa.

मेषाद्याश्रयभेदान्मूर्तिविशेषा दिवाकरादीनाम्। कथ्यन्ते संक्षेणदिह खल्बन्यत्र विस्तरेगोक्ताः ॥२०३।।

Stanza 203 -When different planets occupy different signs, they signify different murthis or subsidiary deities. These are dealt with here briefly.

भौमक्षेत्रगतो रविस्त्रिणयनः कीटे स्वयंभूरजे मर्त्यैरुच्चत ऊर्ध्वमत्र तदधो देवः प्रतिष्ठापितः । यक्षी गोगत एष जूकगृहग: काळी पुनः स्त्रीगतः श्रीरामाद्यवतारविष्णुरथ विष्णुस्त्वेष वीणागतः।।२०४।।

धर्मदैवं च नागाश् भास्कर: कर्कटस्थितः । सिंहस्थो देवता सा या पूज्यते नित्यमात्मना ।।२०५।।

गन्धर्वयक्षौ धनुषि स्थितोर्कस्तयोग्त्रियौ मनिगतस्तु -: भानु:। शास्ता पिशाचो मृगयाप्रधान: किरातमूर्तिश्र शनेर्गृस्थः ।२०६।। Stanzas 204 to 206 .- The Sun disposed in Aries to Pisces indicates respectiviely the following

582 Prasna Marga

murthis or deities: Siva, Yakshi, Vishnu, snakes and Dharma Devas, one's own family deity, avataras of Vishnu, Bhadrakali, Swayambhu, Gandharva and yaksha, Ayyappa, Pisacha and hunter's deities, same as in Capricorn and Gandharva and Yakshi damsels. If within the exaltation parts of Aries, the deity of Siva will be one founded by a high personage, while in the rest of Aries, it will be deities installed by ordinary human beings. NOTES

The commentator adds that when the Sun is in his exalted portion, the Deity may be that of Parasurama. Swayambhu means one grown nuturally. This also refers to Siva so that when the Sun is in Aries or Scorpio. the Deity will be the same. Likewise if the Sun is in Gemini the Deity is Vishnu, while in Virgo, it is Sri Rama and otber Avataras of Vishnu. In Taurus it is Yakshi. In Libra it is Bhadrakali. In Sagittarius it is Gandharva and Yaksha. In Pisces the same deities in the female form. For Capricorn and Pisces the deities are the same.

चामुण्डी सुरसद्गाजगशश्ञी नीचार्चिता कीटाग- श्रामुण्डी यदि मेपगः स विवलो वाच्ये उभे ते अपि। यक्षी शुक्रगृहम्थितः शिशिरगुवा धर्मदवं वुध- क्षेत्रम्थस्तुविमानसुन्दर उत स्त्री वास्य पुंस्त्रीवशात् ।२०७।

Different Kinds of Devatas 583 स्वगृहस्थः शशी नागो धर्मदेवं वली स चेत्। सिंहराशिस्थितश्चन्द्रो भगवत्यन्यपूजिता ।२०८।।

चापस्थो व्योमगन्धर्वस्तत्स्त्री मीनगतः शशी। प्रेतशूलपिशाचाद्याः शशी मन्दगृहस्थितः ॥२०।। Stunzas 207 to 209 .- The Moon in Aries indicates the temple God Chamundi; in Scorpio, the same goddess worshipped by low class people; if weak in these signs, both types of deities; in Taurus, Yakshi; in Libra, Dharma Daiva; in Gemini and Virgo, Vimana Sundara and Sundari; in Cancer, snakes if weak, and Dharma Daiva if strong; in Leo, Bhagavathi worshipped by others; in Sagittarius, Akasa Gandharva (male): in Pisces, Akasa Gandharva (female); and in Capricorn and Aquarius, Preta Soola Pisachas etc.,

स्याद्भूतराक्षसो त्रह्मराक्षसो नरभोजिनी। बालप्रभक्षिणीत्याद्याः स्वर्क्षस्थः क्षितिनन्दनः ॥२१०॥

भौमो भैरवयक्ष एतदबला शौक्रध चौधे स्थितो गन्धर्वो रतिकाम इत्ययमथो यक्षी च रुष्टो हरिः । कर्किस्थः परदेवता भगवती वा कृष्णचामुण्डय- सृविंसिहस्थो वनदेवताश्च शिवभूताश्च रुष्टः शिवः॥१११।।

584 Prasna Marga

धनुर्झषस्थ: खल कुक्षिशास्ता स धीरभद्रोथ मृगे च कुम्मे। निजोत्सवध्वंसनरुष्टदेव: परामिचारोद्भ्वदेवता च ।।२१२।

Stanzas 210 to 212 .- Mars in Aries, Bhuta Rakshasa, Brahma Rakshasa (male), etc .; in Scorpio-Narabhojini, Balaprabhakshani, etc .; in Taurus-Bhairava, Yakshi (female); in Libra- Bhairava Yaksha (male); Gemini-Narasimha (terrible Vishnu Avatar) and Gandharva; Virgo- terrible Narasimha and Yakshi; Cancer-Bhaga- vathi, Krishna, Chamundi; Leo-terrible Siva Bhutas as Aghora Vana Devatas; in Sagittarius- Kushi Sasta; Pisces-Veerabhadra; Capricorn-a Deva angered by Abhichara. भौमक्षेत्रबुधो ज्वरो भृगुगृहे गन्धर्व एष खमे गन्धवोंपि च किन्नरोथ हिमगोरम्भ: पिशाचो गृहे। सिंहे पन्नगकन्यका गुरुगृहे रुष्टद्विजप्ररिता चामुण्डी कवची पिशाचयुगमाघ/ताश्रिंत मन्दमे॥२१३। Stanza 213 .- Mercury in Aries and Scorpio- Jwara Devata; Taurus and Libra-Gandharva; Gemini and Virgo-Gandharva and Kinnara; Cancer-Jala Pisacha; Leo-Naga Kanya; Sagitta- rius and Pisces-Chamundi charged with mischief

Different Kınds of Devatas 585

by an angered Brahmin; in Capricorn and Aqua- rius-Kavachi, Sula Pisachi, Kala Pisachi. भौमक्षे कुपितेशभूतनिवहो दुर्देवता चामिचारोत्था भूमिसुरस्य मार्गवगृहे यक्षी च यक्षोप्युभौ। तीव्रापस्मृतिदौ गुरुबुधगृहे क्लीवात्मिका देवता विप्राणामपि चाभिचारजनिता वा देवकोपोद्भवा ॥२१४।।

Stanza 214 .- Jupiter in Aries and Scropio- Siva Bhutas, Durdevata formed by the Abhichara of Brahmins; Taurus and Libra-Apasmara Yakshi and Yaksha; Gemini and Virgo -a neuter Devata formed by the wrath of Gods or by the Abhichara or Brahmins. तुङ्स्थः खलु देवताग्रिगृहगा गन्धर्वमुख्यस्तथा सिंहस्थो नृपसेवकैरिह नृणामुद्दिश्य कान्तं ख्निया। नारिणां च कृताभिचारजनिता दुर्देवता वाक्पति- र्भस्माप्सङ्गिपिशाचकावधमगन्धर्वः शनेर्न खमे ॥२१५॥ Stanza 215 .- Jupiter in Cancer indicates Da- vata in a Brahmin's house caused by his Agni- hotra, Gandharva Chief; in Leo Davata caused by Abhichara of king's servants or caused by Abhichara of a woman performed against her husband; in Capricorn and Aquarius-Bhasma

586 Prasana Marga

Pisacha, Jala Pısacha, Adhama Gandharva; and ın Sagittarius and Pisces-do not signify any Devatas. भौमक्षेत्रभृगुस्तु जीववदजे यक्षस्तथा राक्षसः स्वक्षों ककटके च यक्षसहिता यक्षी बुध्क्षे पुनः। विद्याभ्यासमवामिचार इनभे यक्षी सुरक्षेत्रगा चापे ब्राह्मणशाप एव झषभें दुर्गा भवेद्दार्गवः ॥।२१६।।

मन्दक्षेत्रगतः शुक्र: स्यादपस्मारदेवता। वात्याप्रभृतयः कालपिशाचश्रात्र बाधकः ।२१७।। Stanzas 216 and 217 .- Venus in Aries and Scorpio -- similar to Jupiter as in stanza 215, but in addition Yaksha and Rakshasa also : in Taurus, Cancer and Libra-Yaksha, Yakshi : in Gemini and Virgo-Abhichara Devata of rival inimical co-scholars; in Leo-temple Yakshi : Sagittarius -a Murthi caused by curse of a Brahmin; and Pisces-Durga Bhagavathi: in Carpicorn-Apa- smara : and in Aquarius-Kala Pisacha.

असाध्यापस्मृतिमेंषे कीटे प्राग्जन्मपीडितः । शिवालयस्थस्तद्भूतो वक्तव्यो भातुनन्दनः ।।२१८।।

गव्यपम्मारयक्षस्तद्यक्षीशापो द्विजस्य च। जूके शास्त्रादिभूतेशाः कुद्धा महविघाततः ॥२१९॥

Defferent Kinds of Devatas 587

चौधे काननदेवता शनिरपि प्रेतः सुहृत्प्रेषितो दैवं नीचसमर्पितं सुरगृहे मिंहे सुरावासगः । शास्त।Sखेटपिशाचकश्च गुरुभे गन्धर्वभेदो मणी- संघातार्तवविशृतोथ निजभे प्रेतः पिशाचाद्यपि ।इति

Stanzas 218, to 220 .- Saturn in Aries -- effects of Apasmara Devatas not curable; Scor- pio-a Siva Bhuta whom the native troubled in his last birth; Taurus-Apasmara Yaksha, Yakshi, curse of a Brahmin; Libra-Bhutha- nathas as Kirata, Ayyappa, etc., originated by obstructing a festival: Gemini-Vana Devata: and Virgo-Pretas of relatives; Cancer-Devatas worshipped by low caste people: Leo-temple Sasta, Kirata, hunter's Gods, Pisachas: Sagit- tarius and Pisces-Mani (Gandharva); and Capricorn and Aquarius-Preta and Pisacha.

NOTES So far the author has been reviewing the troubles caused by foes. He will now study how diseases can be cured.

एतच्छत्रुवाधानिरूपण विषयम् । अयव्याधेः शमन- निरूपण प्रकारो लिख्यते।।

588 Prason Marga

बाधारूढाल्लग्नतो व्याविशान्तिथ्चिन्यारूढेपापयोगेक्षणार्घेः। दोषैयुक्त व्याधिवृद्धिर्गताघः प्राग्लग्ने सा भाविनी पृच्छकानाम् ।।२२१।।

Stanza 221 .- The nature of affliction is to be read from Arudha and the remedies to be emplo- yed are to be ascertained from the rising sign. lf Arudha Lagna is afflicted, the progress of disease will be stopped. If the rising sign is afflicted, the illness will further increase.

भाग्यस्थानगते शुमे तदधिपे प्राणिन्यभीष्टस्थिते लग्नेशे तपनेन वाथ धिषणेनालोकिते वान्विते। स्यादेवेश्वर सेवयोगदशमखद्वन्मनूना जपे लग्नेशे नवमे च दोषसहिते व्याधे: शमो दुर्लभः ।।२२२ ।। Stanza 222 .- If benefics occupy the 9th house, or the lord of the 9th is favourably disposed, or if the lord of Lagna is associated with or aspected by the Sun or Jupiter, the object of the remedial measures, viz., the recovery of the patient, will be realised. If however the lords of the Lagna and the 9th are afflicted, then recovery is unlikely.

Who Should Perform Remedies ? 589

पृष्ठोदयजलद्ू सचराधोमुखराशिभिः। लग्नस्थैर्व्याधिशान्तिः स्यात्तत्प्रश्नेन तदन्यथा ।।२२३।।

Stanza 223 .- In a query pertaining to illness, recovery should be predicted if the rising sign be Prishtodya, movable, adhomukha, jala hrasa rasi. Othrewise there will be no relief पष्ठाष्टमव्ययसुखे पापविमक्त शुभान्विते केन्द्रे। व्याधेः शान्तिप्रश्ने शान्तिर्भवतीति निर्दिशेन्मा/तिमान् ।।इति ॥२२४।

Stanza 224 .- Recovery should be predicted if the Ascendant, 4th, 6th, 8th and 11th houses are free from malefics and benefics occupy the 4th, 7th and 10th. NOTES

Relief is to be predicted only after the due perfor- mance of remedial measures.

WHO SHOULD PERFORM REMEDIES ?

Stanza 225 .- Remedies have to be suggested to be performed by persons of Sathvic, Rajasic

590 Prasana Marga

and Thamasic nature according as the Badhaka planet occupies a Sathwic, Rajasic or Thamasic Rasi or Navamsa. सूरय।चन्द्रमसोर्ग्रहांशकगतश्रेत् खेचरो बाधको विप्रः कर्म करोतु निर्जनगुगेश्रेद्देवतागायक:। ज्ञस्य स्याद्यदि कुम्भकृत्प्रभृतयः शुक्रारयोवा शने- श्रण्डालोत्तममध्यमौ तदधमस्तहेवताप्रीतये ॥।२२६।। Stanza 226 .- Remedies should be performed by different persons according to the situation of the badhaka planet thus: Badhaka planet in the sign or Navamsa of the Sun or the Moon-holy Brahmins; sign or Navamsa of Jupiter-temple songsters; sign or Navamsa of Mercury-potters; in the sign or Rasi or Amsa of Venus-high class amongst the Chandalas; sign or Amsa of Mars -- ordinary Chandalas; and sign and Amsa of Saturn-very low amongst them. मान्दित्रिकोणयोगेक्षाद्येतस्य यदि पुल्कसः। दिवाकीतिस्तथा केतुबाधक ग्रहयोगतः ।। इति ॥२२७॥

Stanza 227 .- If the troubling or harming planet is combired with or aspected by Gulika or

Who Should Perform Remedies ? 591

stands in the 5th or 9th house from him, Pulayas are to be employed. If the planet joins with Ketu, Parayas should perform the rites. सौम्ये सौम्यगृहस्थे बाधेशे तत्प्रतिक्रिकया विप्रेः। पापे तदूगृहगे वा चण्डालाद्ैरितीरितं कश्रित् ॥२२८।। Stanza 228 .- If the troubling planet is a ben- fic or occupies a benefic sign, the remedies should be done by Brahmins; if he is a malefic or occupie a maefic sign-low caste people should be employed for the purpose. चिकित्सा तु कृता केन रोगशान्ये भवेदिति। प्रश्नोपि शमनप्रश्नवत्स्यात् कर्मात्र शक्तिमत् ।।२२९।। Stanza 229 .- To the query who should be the physician to whom the work of medical treat- ment should be entrusted, the anwser is similar to the one given in verse 32. In addition to what is given there, the 10th house also must have benficial influences. मृत्युञ्जयगणपतिहोमादानां कर्तृचिन्तने घिषणः । अनुकूलो जलवृद्धिर्दशमगुणश्चास्तु लग्नमूर्ध्वमुखम् ॥२३० ॥

592 Prasna Marga

Stanza 230 .- With regard to the question to whom the remedial measures should be entrusted, the answer is to be read from the favourable disposition of Jupiter such as in 4, 9 or 11. The Ascendant should be jala hrasa rasi, 10th house must be benefic in character and the Lagna should also be Urdhwamukha.

इति प्रश्नमार्गे पश्चदशाध्यायः

-0-0-0-

षोडशाध्यायः

अध्यायैः पश्चदशाभिर्गतैरेतैः समीरितः। आयु: प्रश्नः सरोगारम्भान्तवाधाप्रतिक्कियः ॥१।। Stanza 1 .- In the last fifteen chapters, the question of longevity has been examined in detail. noting also when disease is likely to begin, how it originates and how it could be cured by suitable remedial measures.

पूर्वमायुः परीक्षेत पश्राल्लक्षणमादिशेद। इत्युक्त्यायुः परीक्ष्याथ लक्षणं किश्चिदुच्यतै ॥२॥ Stanza 2 .- The longevity of the person is to be examind first and then the trends in the horoscope prognosticated. This is what great Rishis say. WHEREABOUTS OF THE QUERIST लग्ने चरे चरमुखांशकतः क्रमेण दूरे नृर्णा चरणसंस्थितितद्वयानि। अम्यने एव तदिदं त्रितयं स्थिरर्क्षे तद्वद्वदे्तदुभयात्मनि मध्यदेशे ।।३।। 38

$94 Prasna Marga

Stanza 3 .- Considering the movable, fixed or dual nature of the Ascendant and the Navamsa Lagna, one has to infer the whereabouts of the questioner - whether he is at home or in a far away place, etc.

NOTES

If Lagna and Navamsa Lagna are movable, then the questioner is in a distant place travelling about on some work; if the Lagna is movable and Navamsa is fixed, he is in a distant place but staying without undertaking any long journeys; if the Lagna is movable and the Navamsa is common, he is in a distant place, and there he is sometimes staying at one place and sometimes journeying; if Lagna is fixed and Amsa is movable, he is in the neighbouring places and journeying from place to place; if Lagna is fixed and Amsa is also fixed; he is in a neighbouring place and stays without any long journeys; if Lagna is fixed and Amsa is common, he is in a neighbouring place and while there, he is sometimes journeying and sometimes staying in one and the same place; if Lagna is common and Amsa is movable, he can be found neither very far from his native place nor very near it, leading a nomad's life, if Lagna is common and Amsa is fixed, he can be found in the above- mentioned place leading a sedentary life; if Lagna and Navamsa are both common, he lives in the above-mentioned place leading both sedentary and travelling life. Here Lagna means Arudha Lagna. Lagna Rasi indicates distance, and Amsa signifies the nature of life.

Success over Enemies 595

आरूढाधीश्वगरूढराश्यंशाभ्यां च चिन्तयेत्। एतद्वयोश्र संवादे सति स्याल्लक्षणं दृढम्॥४।।

Stanza 4 .- The above can also be read from the Rasi and Amsa occupied by the lord of Arudha. If any contradiction is discovered bet- ween the two, the stronger of the two should be considered. SUCCES OVER ENEMIES जन्मलग्नाधिनाथस्य प्रश्नलग्नाधिपस्य च। दिशि सिध्येदयत्नेन कार्य वैरिजयादिकम् ॥५॥।

Stanza 5 .- Success in life and victory over the enemy attends a person in the direction denoted by the lord of Lagna. NOTES Here, Lagna refers to the Ascendant at the time of birth, or Lagna rising at the time of question according as the chart under consideration is a radical or a Horary onc.

अरूढे सप्तमे वास्य ग्रहश्चेदुच्संस्थितः । तस्योक्तं द्रव्यसर्व्रस्व्रं प्रधुरस्तीति निर्दिशेत् ।६।।

Stanza 6 -. If an exalted planet occupies Arudha or the 7th house from it, then the querist acquires wealth through sources signified by the planet concerned.

596 Prasna Marga

NOTES

This stanza is highly suggestive. There will be influx of money through sources signified by the planets exalted in Arudha or the 7th therefrom. Suppose the Sun is the planet involved in this combination. Then the income will be due to dealings in precious metals, medicines, etc., as per the stanza arkamsethrinakanaka, etc. If Saturn is the planet, the source will be dealings in products pertaining to bones, hides and skins, etc. आरूढभतदीशाभ्यां लक्षणं यद्यदीरितम्। आरूढविषये पूर्व तत्तदत्रापि योजयेद्।।७।। Stanza 7 .- All those lakshanas (significations) mentioned earlier regarding Arudha and the lord of Arudha should also be made use of and suitably applied in this connection. NOTES Here the reference to ' earlier ' passages means to the 8th chapter.

BRIGHT AND DARK FUTURE सुखान्त्यार्द्धादि षट्भावस्थिता यदि शुभग्रह्याः। सम्पत्सयादुपरि प्रष्टुः पापश्चेदापदं वदेत्।।८।। Stanza 8 .- The future of the person will be bright or otherwise according as the six houses from the latter part of the 4th are occupied by benefics or malefics.

Bright and Dark Future 597

कर्मान्त्यार्द्धादिषड्भावस्थितैर्भूतं शुभाशुभम् । तुलादिषट्के लग्नस्थे दैवविन्निर्दिशेदिति ।।९।।

Stanza 9 .- If however the six houses from the latter portion of the 10th house are occu- pied, then the past life of the person would have been fortunate or otherwise according to the benefic or malefic nature of the planets. This applies to personsborn in the six Rasis beginning with Libra. NOTES The future or past being fortunate or otherwise, as per stanzas 8 and 9, applies only to persons born in Libra to Pisces. मेपादिषट्के लग्नस्थे सुखान्त्यार्द्धादिषट्कगैः । गता स्यात्सम्पदापच्च भविषत्यन्यषट्कगैः ॥१०॥

Stanza 10 .- For persons born in the six Rasis beginning with Aries, the past is indicated by the Bhavas 4 to 10 and the future by Bhavas 10 to 4.

NOTES Here the unexpired portion of 4th house till the expired portion of the 10th house - and the expired portion of the 10th till the unexpired part of the 4th is implied. Benefics indicate good. Malefics signify misfortunes. Thus the past and the future are to be read from the eastern and western hemispheres.

598 Prasna Marga

MEANS TO ADOPT

सामादिषु प्रयोक्तव्य उपायः समयेत्र क:। इति जिज्ञासवे वाच्यं लक्षणं किमपीर्यते॥११॥ Stanza 11 .- If a question like "by what means or art can I win in this object" is put, then the method to be adopted to answer this question is given below :--

साम्नी जीवः स भृगुतनयो दण्डनाथाँ कुजार्को दानस्येन्दुः शिखियमबुधाः सासुरा भेदनाथाः वीर्योंपेतैरुपचयगतैर्लमगः केन्द्रगैवा तत्तत्सिद्धिं त्रजति तदहस्स्वरंशके वापि तेपाम् ॥१२।।

Stanza 12 .- The means indicated by the strongest of the planets occupying the Ascendant, Upachayas or Kendras should be adopted as follows :- Jupiter and Venus-gentle (same); the Moon-bribery (dana); Saturn, Rahu and Mercury -intimidation (bheda); and the Sun and the Mars-force (danda); The week-day or hour of the concerned planet is preferable.

NOTES Jupiter and Venus govern arts of gentle persuasion. The Moon stands for offer of gifts and money. Mercury governs intimidation. Saturn, Rahu and Ketu also govern

Locating a Treasure Trove 599

intimidation in different forms. Mars and the Sun govern open rupture and war. The first two come under diplo- macy and arbitration. The last two come under war. The methods indicated by the strongest of the planets occupy- ing Upachaya Rasis, or Lagna or Kendras should be used on the respective week days or at the time of their Kala Hora. Then the object can be accomplished.

Though Lagna is included in the Kendras it is repeated to show its importance. So is the 10th house repeated though it is included in the Upachaya Rasi. The week- days and Kala Hora for Rahu and Ketu are similar to those of Saturn and Mars.

LOCATING A TREASURE TROVE

एतस्मिन् भवने किं वा धनमस्ति न वेति यः । जिज्ञासुर्वाच्यमेतस्मै लक्षणं सम्प्रतीर्यते ॥१३॥

Stanza 13 .- To a query "whether a treasure trove can be found in this house", the answer is to be given thus : यदि कण्टकवर्तिनः शुभा: स्युर्यदि वैकादशवेश्मगाः विलमाठ् : धनवद्ग्रहमादिशेत्तदानीं द्वारं च खदिशि परं वदेद्विधिज्ञ:

600 Prasna Marga

Stanza 14 .- If all the benefics occupy Kendras or 11th and 4th houses, then there is wealth in the house mentioned by the questioner. In the dik or direction indicated by the benefics, there will be openings as windows or doors, etc.

प्राच्यादीत्युदितिने यत्र विधिना गेहस्य भागे भवे- त्सौम्यः कण्टकलाभगोत्र निहितं तस्योदितं तद्धनम्। स्वोच्चस्थो यदि भूरिवैरिगृहनीचस्थः स चेत्तल्लघु कराधिष्टितगेहभागानिहितं वाच्यं च शल्यादिकम् । इति

Stanza 15 .- The treasure-trove will be located in the direction signified by the benefics adverted to in the previous stanza. According as the planet is exalted or occupies own house, or is debilitated or in inimical house, the fund will be much or little. It can also be located in the direction indicated by malefics.

NOTES

Say there is wealth in the quarter of that house or building indicated by benefics in Lagna or 4 or 11 (the Sun is East, etc.). If that benefic is evalted or in Moolatrikona,the quantity is appreciable. If he is debilitated or in an inimical Sign, it is very little in the diks indicated by maletics.

Dress Worn by Vistors 601

DRESS WORN BY VISITORS

भानु: कौसुम्भवासा: सितवसनघरो ग्ळौरसृग्रक्तवासाः पालाशाच्छादनो ज्ञो वसनमथ गुरोः पीतमच्छस्य चित्रम्। कोण: कृष्णांबरः स्यादय कथयतु तैर्लक्षण केन्द्रसंस्थ रायस्थैवां स्ववासोधरयुवतिनृणामागमं प्रश्नकाले ।।१६।। Stanza 16 .-- Strong planets disposed in quadrants or the eleventh house indicate that at the time of the query there will be visitors-male or female-according to the sex signified by the concerned planet-wearing the dress of different colours thus: the Sun-red, the Moon-white, Mars -- red, Mercury-green, Jupiter-yellow, Venus- variegated, and Saturn-black.

NOTES The strongest planet indicates the sex as well as the colour of the dress worn by the visitor.

NATURE OF PERSONS MET WITH ON THE WAY

प्रस्थानलग्नास्तगतैर्बलिष्ठैः केन्द्रस्थितैवां विहगोदितानाम्। विप्रादिनारीनरवस्त्रभाजामभ्यगमो वर्त्मनि कीर्तनीयः

।।१७।। Stanza 17 .- In a query bearing on journeys, the powerful planets in the 7th or in quadrants

602 Prasna Marga

indicate the caste and sex of the person one will meet on his way and the colour of the dress he or she wears. मार्तण्डो व्रणवान् त्रणी धरणिजो वाचस्पतिः काचद- डमन्दो वामपदे व्रणाक्कसहीतः पार्श्वे तिलाङ्को भृगुः । चन्द्रो माषतिलादिलञ्छनयुतः सौम्यः सिरासन्ततो योज्यं प्राक्तनलक्ष्मणोर्वरकळत्रादेश लक्ष्मण्यदः ।१८।। Stanza 18 .- The Sun and Mars govern wounds and sores; Jupiter-copper coloured eyes; Saturn-wounds in the left leg; Venus-moles on the sides; the Moon-moles and scars; and Mercury-swollen nerves in the body. These details can be used in questions bearing on journeys and marriage. CHARACTERISTICS OF BRIDE AND BRIDEGROOM आरूढनाथेन तु लक्ष्म वध्वास्तदस्तनाथेन वरस्य वाच्यम्। प्रश्ने विवाहस्य परत्न लग्नपुत्रादिकैः प्रषटसुतादिकानाम्

Stanza 19 .- In a query bearing on marriage, the characteristics of the wife should be read from the lord of Arudha, and those of the husband from the lord of the 7th from Arudha. In all queries-marriage or otherwise -- particulars about

Characteristics of Bride and Bridegroom 603

the native should be gathered from the Lagna lord, those of the children from the 5th lord and so on. NOTES According to the commentator, if for example, the lord of Lagna is the Sun, the wife will be having some wound or sore; if the lord of the 7th from Arudha happens to be Jupiter, the husband or bridegroom witl have copper coloured eyes (मार्जारेक्षण:); In this way in queries bearing on marriage or on other aspects, the lakshanas should be applied. लक्षणकथनेमुष्मिन् खचरवपुर्द्रव्यजातमपि यद्यत्। संज्ञास्वस्वदशाफलकथिंत तद्योजनीयमखिलमपि ॥२०।। Stanza 20 .- The characteristics, significations etc., attributed to different planets in the chapter on preliminaries should be approximately adapted in answering the various questions. NOTES Lakshana means attributes or properties or characte- ristics assigned to various planets while dealing with prelimi- naries. Here reference is made to 'vapu', 'dravya' etc., signified by different planets. According to Varaha Mihira for instance, the Sun has fair appearance (मधुपिङ्गळहकू). He rules copper नखदन्तपचर्मः (ताम्रस्या). He signifies nails, teeth etc.According to stanza 6 (given above) (भानु: कौसुलभ:) the Sun represents red colour wounds, etc.

604 Prasna Marga

All these characteristics should be carefully. consi. dered. Suppose in a query, the Sun is strongly placed in a kendra. This means that a person wearing red coloured clothes, having wounds in the body, with a squarish face will make an appearance at the time of the query; or article made of gold, copper, nails, teeth, etc,. would be broughts in. In Prasana bearing on marriage, if the lord of arudha Lagna is the Sun, then the bride will have a square face. I the lord of the 7th from Arudha happens to be the Sun,- then the characteristics are applicable to the bridegroom. Similarly details can be used in other queries also, bearing on busband, children, etc.

यद्यद्वस्त्विह लोके तत्सवं धातुभूलजीवमयम्। कृष्णीयप्रभृतिभ्यः शास्त्रेभ्यस्तद्भिदा जेया ॥इति ॥२१॥

Stanza 21 .- All matters in this world can be classified into Dhatu, Moola and Jeeva. The details regarding them given in Krishneeya and other treatises, should be carefully ascertained.

NOTES

The various minerals, vegetables, etc. assinged to different planets should be ascertained from standard books on the snbject. According as the indicators of the various Dhatus, etc., are in the house of gains or destruction access to or deprivation of them should be predicted.

Stanzas 22 to 24 have been omitted as they deal with lakshanas covered in Chapter II.

Rulers of Different Parts of Day 605

RULERS OF DIFFERENT PARTS OF DAY

आदित्यदिदिनेष्विनादिफणिपर्यन्ताः क्रमेणोदयं स्वस्ाद्याः खदिनेषु यान्ति दिवसाष्टांशेषुखल्ववृसु। जीवज्ञास्फृजितां क्रिया हि सकला: सिध्येयुरिन्दोः शनै- नोन्येषामुदये वदेदिति सुधी: सश्चिन्त्य पृछाविधौ ।२५॥।

Stanza 25 .- The eight parts of the day beginning from sunrise, are ruled respectively by the week-day lord and other planets in the order of the Sun to Rahu. If the ruling period at the time of a query is that of Jupiter, Mercury or Venus, the objects of the question will be fully realised. If the ruler of the period is the Moon, the object will be fulfilled in due course. If the periods belong to the Sun, Mars, Saturn or Rahu, the result is failure.

प्रश्ने दिनगतविघटीर्विन्यस्य विभज्य शेखरैः शेषाद्। विज्ञेयो विहगानामुदयो वक्तव्यममुनेदम् ॥२६॥।

Stanza 26 .- Convert the ghatis at the time of the query into vighatis. Divide the product by 225. The quotient represents the number of the period.

606 Prasna Marga

NOTES

Stanzas 25 and 26 give a simple method for finding out the" results of a query-irrespective of the nature of the query. According to stanza 26, the duration of day (in terms of vighatis) should be divided by 225. The quotient represents the number of the rising period, which should be reckoned from sunrise.

The day (diurnal duration) is divided into 8 parts. The lord of the first part is the lord of the week-day. The lords succeed in the order of the Sun, the Moon, etc. Thus on a Sunday, the ruler of the first part is the Sun; of the 2nd the the Moon; the 3rd Mars: the 4th Mercury; the 5th Jupiter: the 6th Venus: the 7th Saturn and of the 8th Rahu. The division of the day into 8 parts has nothing to do with the planetary hours, described in other books, where the lord of the week-day rules the lst hour, the subsequent hours being ruled by the planets in the order of Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Sun, Venus and the Sun.

To take an example : Suppose a query is put at 4-5 p.m. at Bangalore on 21-5-1960. The number of ghatis from sunrise will be 25 and therefore the number of vighatis is 1500. This divided by 225 gives the quotient as 6 and the remainder as 150. Therefore the 7th part is rising. The week-day being Saturday, lord of the Ist part is Saturn, that of the 2nd Rahu, of the 3rd the Sun, of the 4th the Moon, of the 5th Mars, of the 6th Mercury and of the 7th Jupiter. As the concerned planet is Jupiter. the object of the query will be fulfilled.

Rulers of Different Parts of Dar 607

I must caution readers that this particular method of answering queries has its own limitations. Each part rules for nearly 14 hours and queries put by different people in a particular division of the day would elicit the same answer. This method cannot be used after sunset and before sunrise. But the commentator adds that under the dictum afrrfeura चमाटया (the ruler of the 1st part after sunset will be the fifth planet from the week-day lord, in the order of the Sun to Rahu), the method can be utilised for answering questions put during nights also. Thus on a Sunday, the lords of the eight divisions, (from sunset to sunrise) will be respectively Jupiter (5th from the Sun lord of the week-day), Venus (2nd), Saturn (3rd), Rahu (4th), the Sun (5th), the Moon (6th), Mars (7th), and Mercury (8th).

गतनाडिकामुदधि संगुणां हरेदवनीधरस्तु परिशेषितः

क्रमाव्। मृतिविभ्र मौ कलहसौर्य निर्गमा: सकळत्रबन्धनमितीरयेद्- बुधः ॥ इति ॥ २७ ।

Stanza 27 .-- Multiply the query ghatis by 4 and divide the product by 7. If the remainder is 1, the result is death; 2 travel; 3 quarrels; 4 happiness; 5 departure; 6 happiness with wife; and 7 incarceration. NOTES This stanza is from Anushtanapaddhati. I do not propose to comment on the method which is generally used

608 Prasna Marga

even now by village astrologers to give snapshot answers to questions. Sometimes the method works. Sometimes it does not. CHARACTERISTICS DUE TO FIVE ELEMENTS आत्मश्वासोद्भ्वो दूतवाक्यप्रथमवर्णजः । दिनयातघटीभूतो भूतानामुदयास्त्रिधा ॥२८।। Stanza 28 .- The orgin of Pancha Bhutas can be known in three ways; (1) from an examination of the astrologer's breath; (2) from the first letter of the word uttered by the messenger or queren; and (3) from the time of query. अभयो: पुटयोस्तु दण्डसंस्था पृथिवीतोयमधः कुशानुरूत्वम्। पवनस्तु तिर्यङनसोथ मध्ये गगनं भूतगतस्तन्दूद्धवेयम्

Stanza 29 .- While breathing out it the air comes out of both the nostrils and is of the shape of the of a straight stick, it is Prithvibhuta; when it passes straight down and not in the shape of a stick it is Jalabhuta; when it passes upwards, it is Agnibhuta. When it passes in angular shape, it is Vayubhuta; and it when passing out of both the nostrils, the breath joins together and conti- nues as one, it is Akasabhuta.

Characteristics Due to Five Elements 609

भूमेरकारं पयसस्त्विकारं वह्वेरुकारं मुनयो वदन्ति। एकारमोकारमपि क्रमेण वायोश् वर्ण नमसञ्च वर्णम्।।३०।। Stanza 30 .- The letters a (3), e (₺), u (s), ye (ए) and o (ओ) respectively signify Prithvi. Jala, Agni, Vayu and Akasa Bhutas. याम: स्यादिवसष्टभाग इह तेष्वोजे महिपूर्वको युग्मे स्याद्गगनादिगश्च दिवसे रात्रौ च भृतक्रमः । भूमे, पादयुता घटी तु पयसो नाडयाड्घ्रहीना शुचे- नांडयर्द्व पवनस्य खस्य घटिकापादो द्वयोर्योमयोः ॥३१॥ Stanza 31 .- Of the eight Yamas into which the day-time is divided, the odd ones begin in Prithvi Bhuta or Tatwa and end in Akasa Bhuta. The even ones rise in Akasa Bhuta and end in Prithvi Bhuta-the duration of the Tatwas in a Yama in terms of vighatis being; Prithvi 75, Apa 60, Agni 45, Vayu 30 and Akasa 15. Similar is the case with regard to the night.

NOTES In Chapter II, reference has already been made to the method of answering questions by considering the exhaled and inhaled air current. Here again reference is made in stanzas 29 to 31, to the Panchabhutas governing 39

610 Prasna Marga

(a) the expired air current of the astrologer, (b) the first letter of the question or the message, and (c) the time of the day. It is not poseible for the average astrologer to study the nature of his breath and the Bhuta under which the expired air current at a particular moment falls. Accor- ding to Gheranda the standard length of the body of Vayu is 72 inches or six feet. The ordinary length of the air current when expired is 9 inches. The length varies when man performs different kinds of work. Thus in singing, it is said to become 12 inches; in eating 15 inches and so on. The astrologer must be able to say whether at the time of the query, the breath one exhales is from one nostril or both the nostrils; and whether it is cloudy and resembles a a straight stick; whether it goes upwards or downwards and so on and then decide the Bhuta under which it falls. The first letter of the query or message should also enable the astrologer to discover the predominant Bhuta at the time. The first letters अ,इ, उ, ए,ओ respectively represent the Bhutas Prithvi, Apa, Agni, Vayu and Akasa, All letters of the alphabet can be brought under the above 5 letters. Thus if the first letter is (ki) it is like g and represents Apa- bhuta. Here no distinction is made between a consonant and a vowel. Stanza 31 gives the periods in a day or night when the different tatwas will be predominant. The duration of day and night are each divided into 8 parts. In odd parts- Ist, 3rd, etc., the first 75 vighats (30 minutes) represent the Prithvitatwa, the next 60 vighatis (24 minutes) Jalatatwa, the next 45 vighatis (18 minutes) Agnitatwa, the next 30 vighatis (12 minutes) Vayutatwa and the last

Charaeteristics Due to Five Elements 611

15 vighatis (6 minutes) Akasatatwa. In even Yamas, the reverse holds good, i.e., the first 15 vighatis (6 minutes) represent Vayutatwa, the next 30 (12 minutes) Agnitatwa and the last 75 vigbatis (30 minutes) Prithvitatwa. The length of each interval (Yama) is taken as 33 ghatis (1₺ hours) assuming the duration of the day as 30 ghatis (12 hours). When the duration of day is more or less than 30 vighatis, the duration of each Yama and the tatwa change proportionately.

Thus in a day of equal diurnal and nocturnal duration, the following periods represent the total period of cach tatwa:

Prithvi - 20 ghatis (8 hours) Jala 16 (6h. 24m.) Vayu 8 (3h. 12m.) Agni - 12 (4h. 48m.) Akasa 4 (1h. 36m.)

भूतानामुतयेन च विचिन्तयेत् प्रष्टकार्यमखिलमपि। न मृतिर्न रोगशान्तिर्द्धरणेरुदये जलोदये तु पुनः ।।३२।। इप्सितमचिरात्सिध्यति वह्वेरुदये मृतिर्विरोधम। वायोरुदये सर्व सिध्यति गमनागमादि चलकार्यम्

व्याध्यारंभो नाश: स्थिरकार्य चाहवश्च तथा। आकाशोदयकाले सिध्यत्यशुभं विश्ञेषेण ।।३४।

612 Prasna Marga

Stanzas 32 to 34 .- By noting the Bhuta in these three ways at the time of Prasna, predictions can be made. If the Bhuta is Prithvi, the sick man will neither die or recover. If it is Jala Bhuta, the desired things will soon be accomplished. If it is Agni, enmity and death will take place. If it is Vayu, all activities such as going and coming will be successful. If it is Akasa, new diseases will crop up, business will fail and prosperity will decline. But some permanent activities will be successful. LAKSHANAS GIVEN IN OTHER WORKS प्रागात्मश्वासविषये विस्ताराद्यदि हेरितम्। पश्चानामपि भूतानां फलं तदपि चिन्तयेत् ।।इति ।३५।। Stanza 35 .- What has been already described regarding these Bhutas, etc., in earlier chapters may also be utilised with advantage. NOTES Here, the reference is to Chapter II where the astrological significance of these five bhutas have been enumerated. लग्नेशोशुभसंयुतो यदि नृमे प्रष्विपत्तिर्नृभि: पश्वादैश्रतुरड्ि. घ्रमेषु यदि चेचद्ेदतो निर्दिशेद्। सर्पार्यैस्तु सरीसृपार्य भवने यद्यवुराशौ नदी कूपादौ पतनं झषाधिजलजन्तूपद्रबो वा यदि॥३६।।

Danger to the House 613

Stanza 36 .- If the lord of Lagna joins with an evil planet, there will be danger and it will come from men or beasts according to the nature of the rising sign. Ifit is Taurus, it is from horned animals; if it is sarisripa Rasi, the danger will be from serpents. If it is a watery sign, he will fall in a well or tank or some aquatic animals will bite him. NOTES Here the sign refers to the sign cccupied by the lord of Lagna. If it is a biped sign, the danger will be from men. If it is a quadruped sign, the danger will be from quadrupeds. Thus if it is Taurus, horned animals are meant; if it is Leo, animals having short teeth, etc., are meant. Cancer and Scoripo are sarisri pa signs.

DANGER TO THE HOUSE

संहारोडुगतोर्कजः क्षितिभुवा युक्तोथवा वीक्षितः प्रषुर्मन्दिरदाहकृत्स शिखिना युक्तेक्षितो वा तथा। संहारोडुगतोसदीक्षितयुतो लग्नाधिपः कुष्टका- र्येवं राह्ुयुतोक्षिते तु तनुपे प्रष्टाहिदष्टो भवेत् ।३७।। Stanza 37 .- If Saturn occupies a samhara- nakshatra in association with or aspected by Mars or Ketu, then the house of the native will be in danger of fire. If the lord of Lagna occupies a samhara nakshatra and joins with or is aspectėd

614 Prasna Marga

by evil planets, the native will be affected by leprosy. If such an evil planet is Rahu, then the danger will be from serpents. LOSS OF METALS मार्तण्डे तनुगे भृगौ धनगते हेमागमः पृच्छतां लग्नस्थे भृगुजे व्ययस्थित इने हेम्नो विनाशो भवेद्। मन्दे लग्नगतेर्थगे च शशिजे लाभोऽयसः कथ्यतां मन्दे रिप्फगते बुधेऽथ तनुगे नाशश्च वाच्योयसः

Stanza 38 .- If the Sun occupies Lagna and Venus is in the 2nd, the native will get plenty of gold; if vice versa, there will be loss of gold. If Saturn is in Lagna and Mercury is in the 2nd, he will get a large quantity of iron. If Saturn is in the 12th and Mercury is in the Ascendant, there will be loss of iron.

लाभस्ताम्रस्य वाच्यो वपुषि यदि भगुर्भूमिपुत्रो धनस्थो भूपुत्रे लग्नसंस्थे पुनरपि भृगुजे रिष्फगे ताम्रनाशः । वक्तव्योत्नार्थलाभ: थ्तितियुवि तनुगे सूर्यपुत्रे धनस्ये रिप्फस्थे भूमिपुत्रे वपुषि यदि शनिः कथ्यतामर्थनाशः

Loss of Metals 615

Stanza 39 .- If Venus is in Lagna and Mars is in the 2nd, he will earn much copper. If Mars is in Lagna and Venus is in the 12th, there will be loss of the metal. If Mars is in Lagna and Saturn is in the 2nd, he will gain much wealth. If Saturn is in Lagna and Mars is in the 12th, there will be loss of wealth.

भानोर्लग्ने पशुगजतुरङ्गादिकानां विनाशः कीटोत्थापसपनबुधयोरमृत्युभीति: कुजस्य । इन्दो: छूनोविपदिह सुहृत्पुत्रयोः कीर्तनीया नीचारिस्या रविहतकरा ये फलं प्रोक्तमेषाम्॥४०॥ Stanza 40 .- If the Sun occupies Lagna which happens to be the sign of his debility or enemy, there will be destruction of cattle, horses and elephants. According as Mercury or Mars is similarly placed there will respectively be trouble from vermin and danger to relatives and children; or fear of death. स्वोच्चस्थितो देवगुरुर्भृगुर्वा चन्द्रेण युक्तो यदि लग्नसंस्थ:। प्रीतिर्भवेदेव जनात्समस्तात् पक्षेण लाभश्च चतुष्पदानाम् ।।इति ॥४१।। Stanza 41 .- If Jupiter or Venus in exaltation or own house is in conjunction with the Moon in

616 Prasna Marga

Lagna, then the gods and all the people will look on the native with favour and he will acquire quadrupeds within 15 days.

INTERPRETING FIRST LETTER OF QUERY पश्चप्नेऽष्टविभाजितेक्षरगणे दूतोदिते शिष्यते तन्नैकं यदि देवरादशिखिमुखा दिक्पा यदि व्य्यादिकम्। दूतोक्तोर्णगणे त्रिमिः खलु हते शिष्टैकता चेद्रद: साध्यो नूनमसाध्य एव युगळे शिष्टे त्रिके दुशरमः॥४२।।

Stanza 42 .- Multiply the number implied by the first letter in the word spoken by the messenger by 5 and divide the product by 8. If the remainder is 1, the disease will have been caused by Devendra; 2 by Agni; 3 by Yama; 4 by Nirithi; 5 by Varuna; 6 by Vayu; 7 by Vaishravana; and 8 by Siva. Divide the number above mentioned by 3. If the remainder is 1, say that the sick man will recover; if it is 2, he will not recover; if it is 3, he will recover with remedial measures and good treatment. NOTES

The Deities mentioned in stanza 42 are the lords of the eight cardinal points of the compass. It is one of these Deities that is supposed to afflict the questioner.

Inter preting First Letter of Query 617

व्याधीनां शमनं करोति वलभिद्देवस्य पूजादिक- रग्निर्होमविधानतोथ पितृपूजाभिः पितृणां पतिः। रक्ष: सूचयति व्यथार्दितनृणां रुम्ब्रह्मरक्षोमुखा- वेशेनेति विधानमस्य शमनायाधीयता धीमता ।।४३।।

तैलभिषेकाच्च घृतामिषेकाहदवे सधारादपि तर्पणाद्वा। पाशी विधनते गदशान्तिमेषां वक्त्यन्यभावादिक- मार्तिहेतुम् ॥४४।।

देवप्रसादेन गदोपशान्ति करोति नृणां खलु मातरिश्व ।।४५॥

देवद्विजार्चनविधिं जनिमे जनानां रुक्शान्तये विहित- वानळकाघिनाथः । गीतेन नृत्तकरणेन च भारतेन त्रय्या च देवपरितोषण- मप्युमेशः॥४६॥। Stanzas 43 to 46 .- The sick man can recover by adopting the following remedial measures. If the afflicting or disease-causing Deity is Indra, worship Ishta-devata or family god ; if it is Agni- perform Mrityunjaya Homa; if it is Yama, propi-

618 Prasna Marga

tiate the manes; if it is Niriti, satisfy the Brahmarakshasa; if it is Varuna, perform abhisheka to God Siva with holy water, oil and ghee; if it is Vayu, decorate God with holy orna- ments and flowers, anoint Him with perfumes and sandal paste and fill the atmosphere with scented fumes; if it is Vaishravana, worship the Gods and Brahmins on a birthday; and if it is Siva, arrange Bhajanas, sacred dances, reading of scriptures and recitation of the Vedas.

NOTES Stanza 42 enables us to find out the Deity causing the sickness or affliction and whether or not recovery either naturally or by treatment is possible. In the latter circumstance, remedial measures are to be performed as per stanzas 43 to 46. According to some the total number of letters of the query and not the number of the first letter should be taken.

Providing the Deity with ornaments or charging the temple atmosphere with scented fumes or the performance of holy dance, recitation of Vedas, Puranas, etc., are gene- rally done either on one's birthday or on a day ruled by one's birth star.

PREDICTING BY BETEL LEAVES प्रष्ट्रा वितीर्णताम्बूलै: शुभाशुभमशेपतः । बाच्यं द्वादश्रभावोत्थं तत्प्रकारोभ लिख्यते

Predicting by Betel Leaves 619

Stunza 47 .- By examining the betel leaves presented by the querist, the good and bad results pertaining to the 12 houses can be predicted. ताम्बूलै: प्रष्ुदत्तैरपि फलमखिलं तस्य वक्तव्यमेवं प्रारभ्योपर्यधस्ताद्गणनमिह्द वपुः पूर्वमह्नोर्द्यो: स्याद। म्लनिक्षत्याद्यु पेतं तद्युतमपि यद्धावसम्बन्धि पत्रं तस्य व्याध्याद्यनिंष्ट भवति शुभमपि प्राप्िसंवर्द्धनाद्यम् 11841 Stanza 48 .- According as the time of query happens to fall (a) after midnight and before noon, or (b) after midday and before midnight, the. leaves should be counted from top to bottom or from bottom to top. The first and subsequent leaves represent the first and subsequent Bhavas. Faded, squeezed, torn or damaged leaves denote affliction to the Bhavas they signify while broad and soft leaves in proper form indicate prosperity to the Bhavas concerned. NOTES If we believe in the theory that nothing in this universe can happen by chance or accident, then there is bound to be some sort of correlation between the nature of articles we may come across unexpectedly and the events likely to happen in the future. The querist presents some betel leaves and nuts (thamboola) to the astrologer. The leaves

620 Prasna Marga

are chosen at random by the querist. Some are damaged and some are in excellent condition. After the leaves are counted either from top to bottom (if the time is after midnight and before midday) or from bottom to top (if the time is between midday and midnight), they must be arranged as 1, 2,3 etc. The first leaf represents the first Bhava, the 2rd the 2nd Bhava, and so on. If the leaves are fresh and undamaged, only good can be expected from the Bhava concerned. Ifon the contrary, the leaf is dry, and eaten by pests, the events signified by the Bhava are in danger. According to this theory, gains and losses can be noted by comparing the sizes of the 11th and 12th leaves. Longevity can be studied by comparing the 1st and 8th leaves.

I have not personally tested this method. Therefore 1 can say nothing either for or against the theory. But some of the Kerala astrologers with wbom I discussed the matter are of the opinion that in Prasna or Horary astrology, predictions based upon this betel leaf theory' generally come correct.

The leaves have to be held in the left hand and the counting has to be done by the right hand.

ताम्बूलसंख्यां द्विगुणां शरमां सैकां हरेत्सप्तभिरत्र शिष्टैः। सर्योदिकानामुदयोत्र कल्ण्यो ग्रहोदयो यत्र स लग्नराशि:

Stanza 49 .- Double the number of leaves. Multiply this by 5. Add 1 to it. Divide the total by

Predicting by Betel Leaves 621

The remainder represents the planet in the order of the week-days. The sign occupied by the planet in the Horary chart is the Thamboola Lagna. दुःखाय भानुरुदित: सुखकच्छशशाङ्क: प्रष्टुः कुजः कलहकृद्धनदौ जजीवौ। शुकोखिलाभिमतकृन्मरणाय मन्दो लग्नादिभावविहगैश्र वदेत् फलानि Stanza 50 .- According as the Sun to Saturn (in the order of week-days) rises in Thamboola Lagna, there will respectively be sorrows, general happiness, quarrels, acquisition of money, gratification of desires, death and destruction. NOTES Stanzas 49 and 50 link up the* betel leaf indications with the chart cast for the time of query. The formula suggested is 2. (No. of betel leaves) x 5 + 1 = quotient + remainder. 7

(*) One of the Panikkars tells me that stanza 49 is a bit confusing. According to him, Thamboola Lagna sign will be at the horizon when the concerned planet rises. This means one has to find the time at which the planet rises on the day in question and then calculate the ascendant for this time. But the concensus of astrologers say that the sign occupied in the Prasna chart by the planet revealed by the leaves is Thamboola Lagna.

622 Prasna Marga

The remainder represents the planet whose position in the Prasna chart gives the Thamboola Lagna. Suppose the number of betel leaves is 14. Then,

2 (14) x 5 + 1 = 141/7 = 20 1/7 Remainder =1 = Sun

Since the Sun is in Thamboola Lagna, tbe result is "quarrels ". ACQUISITION OF ELEPHANTS गजलाभो ममेदानीं किमु स्यादिति कश्चन। प्रभु: पृच्छति चेत्तस्मै वाच्यं लक्षणमुच्यते 114811

Stanza 51 .- Queries made by rulers regarding the capture of clephants can be answered according to the principles given below :- लग्नद्युनतपस्सुतेषु घिषणः पार्थोनराश्यंशग: प्रश्न कुश्जरलाभक्रन्नरपतेस्तत्रायनाथो यदि। नाथ: संश्रतुरडिघ्रमस्य नियतं केन्द्रत्रिकोणाश्रितः शीघ्रं तद् खल केन्द्रगौ यदि तदा कर्मेशभाग्याधिपौ 114811 Stanza 52 .- If at the time of query Jupiter occupies the 1st, 7th, 9th, or 5th house which should have reference to Virgo Rasi or Navamsa, elephants will be secured by the querying kings. Here the lord of the 11th should own a quadru-

Indications for Sickness 623

pedal Rasi, and occupy a quadrant or a trine. Again if the lords of 9 and 10 should occupy kendras, the capture will be easy and without any effort. NOTES In these days of democracy when kings have disap- peared, this yoga can be applied for all gains. Instead of quadrupedal signs, signs corresponding to the gains intended could be substituted.

पृच्छायाँ गुळिकं पूर्व सम्यग्विस्पष्टमानयेत्। तत्कालजान् ग्रहांश्रान्यान् पुनर्लक्षणमादिशेत् Stanza 53 .- The correct longitudes of Gulika and other planets at the time of the query should be determined to ascertain the lakshanas or indications.

INDICATIONS FOR SICKNESS

मानौ मान्दियुतेक्षिते निजगृहे कस्यापि पुंसो रुजा कोपो वा नृपतेस्तदीयपुरुषस्यान्यायतो वागमः । शीतांशौ कलहो भवेदबलयो: स्त्रीहेतुकः सोथवा यः कश्चिल्कलहोथवा पुनरिह श्रूयेत दूरादपि ।।५४।।

Stanza 54 .- If Gulika is conjoined with or aspected by the Sun, someone will be sick in the house of the querist; or the king wili be angry

624 Prasna Marga

with him; or some messenger from the ruler unexpectedly arrives in the house. If Gulika is associated with or aspected by the Moon, two women in the querist's house will be quarrelling; or men will be quarrelling because of a woman; or the story of a quarrel that happened in a distant place will be reported in the family.

भूपुत्रे कलहो भवेत्परिसरे श्वद्वीपिनोर्नायकै- रन्योन्ये यदि वा शवोपनयनं यद्ाथ मांसागम: ।

शीवांशोस्तनये तु नूतनघटानीति: प्रधानागमो यद्वा नूतनलोहजाद्युपगमो वा विग्रहः पुंस्तियोः।५५।। Stanza 55 .- If Mars is the planet joining Gulika, there will be quarrel amongst the owners of dogs or keepers of tigers or between dog-owners and tiger-keepers in the neighbourhood of the querist's residence, or a corpse or flesh will have been brought; if Mercury, new mud or earthen- ware vessels will be brought to the querist's house. or a distinguished personage will turn up, or vessels made of metals will be brought or there will be quarrel between men and women (in his house).

Predicting by Betel Leaves 625

जीवे भूमिरुद्दः पतेद्यदि चरे भग्न: समूलं स्थिरे मध्ये यद्युभये तदीयविटपस्तत्स्याजझषे वा हये। आयानां विमनोद्विजस्य यदि वा यद्वात्र पक्वागमो यद्वापन्निजपूर्व हेतुरथवा तेषां तु शेषक्रिया 1141

Stanza 56 .- If it is Jupiter, a tree will fall down, broken, or uprooted or branches torn off, according as the sign involved is movable, fixed or common; the falling of the tree will be in the direction indicated by Pisces (ईशान्य) or Sagittarius (वायव्य) or a Brahmin will turn up with a worried mind, or in affliction; or someone will bring plantain fruits; or some unhappy incident will happen, brought about by the patriarch of the family; or the senior member of the family will die.

शुक्रे छेदनमाखुनाथ भविता वस्त्रस्य पात्रक्षति- र्दभनो वा पयसोथवोपनयनं विप्रागमोन्यायतः । गृदणीयात्पुनर।खुरोतुमथवा पादायुधं वाग्रतो मन्दे कश्चन दीक्षितो गृहसुपेत्याथो रुषा यास्यति ।।५७। 40

636 Prasna Marga

चण्डालस्य मृति: स्थले तु निजके तद्विग्रहो वाऽडयस- द्रव्याणामथवा इतिः पुनरहौ श्वव्याघ्रयोविग्रह्ः। यद्वा पलगदंशनं फणियुगानीतिश् तत्राथवा दुग्धस्योपनयो वदेदिति सुधीः केतोः फलं राहुवत्

Stanzas 57 and 58 .- If Venus joins or aspects Gulika, there will be trouble from rats, or vessels will be broken, or somebody will bring milk or curd, or a Brahmin will come in without any reason uninvited, or a cat will pounce upon a rat or a hen in front of the querist. If it is Saturn, a holy Brahmin (Deekshita) will come to the house and depart in anger, or low caste people in the neighbourhood will die or quarrel, or some vessels made of iron will be brought to the house. If Rahu is so conjoined, a dog and a tiger will fight or a serpent will bite either him or his relative or two serpents will be brought to the house of the native or milk will be brought to his house by an outsider. The effects of Ketu will be similar to those of Rahu. NOTES

After giving the methods of predicting with the aid of betel leaves, the author switches on to the regular subject- matter of astrology. The translation of stanzas 54 to 58 is

Performing Obsequies 627

clear enough and they do not need further remarks. How far the results ascribed to Gulika's association with the different planets, can be used in interpreting horary charts in the light of society as it is constituted today, is left to the discretion of the intelligent reader.

PERFORMING OBSEQUIES

एव शेषक्रियां कुयांत् किम्र पित्रोर्नवेति यः । प्रश्नोयास्योत्तरं वक्तुं लक्षणं किमपीर्यते Stanza 59 -If the query "will I be able to perform the obsequies of my father and mother" is made, the answer should be given thus: स्वाँसे राशौ चरे वा स्थितिरिननवमाधीशयोरेनयोश्रे दृष्टी रिप्फे स्थितिर्वा यदि तदुपगतांशर्क्षयो: केन्द्रगत्वंम्। सम्यग्दीक्षा पितु: स्याद्वदि कथितगुणेष्वेषु नैकोपि दीक्षा नैव स्यात्सम्भवेच्चेदपि बहुविपदः सम्भवेयुर्गदाद्याः ।।६०॥ Stanza 60 .- The person will be able to perform the obsequies if the Sun and the lord of the 9th (a) occupy their own or movable signs, or their own or movable Navamsas: (b) or are posited in or aspect the 12th; (c) or are in kendras or Navamsas of kendra houses. In the absence of any one of these combinations, the ceremonies

628 Prasna Marga

cannot be performed because of obstacles, such as sickness and other calamities. NOTES Stanza 60 requires the presence of either the lord or the karaka in the prescribed places. According to combi- nation (c), the Sun or the lord of the 9th should be in a quadrangular place. धमोस्ति पापान्वयवीक्षणं चेदीक्षा विदन्येत शुभासतोश्रेद्। अग्रे शुभश्रेद्विहतिस्तु मध्ये पृष्टे स चेचा परतोलमेत

Stanza 61 .- If the 9th house is afflicted by malefic planets, the ceremonies will not be per- formed. If however both benefics and malefics occupy the 9th and if the former have a higher longitude in the Rasi, the ceremonies will be begun properly but towards the end, they will have to be stopped; if on the other hand malefics happen to be in front, then the ceremonies will be started by a third party but towards the end, the native will complete the functions. NOTES 'In front' means a greater longitude. Suppose two planets are in a sign, one in the 15th degree and the other in the 18th, the latter will be ' in front' of the former.

मातृदीक्षाविचारे तु धर्मधर्मेशभासवताम्। प्रोक्तस्थानेष्विह ग्राद्याश्चतुर्थैतत्पतीन्दषः

Performing Obsequies 629

Stanza 62 .- By substituting the 4th house, the 4th lord and the Moon respectively for the 9th, 9th lord and the Sun, prediction about the mother's funeral ceremonies should be made.

जातो यः पितृजन्मरन्ध्रभवने यल्लग्नगस्तत्पतिः कुर्यातां पितकर्म तौ पितृमृतीशोडतये यः पुनः। जातः सात्मजपौत्रयुकच विधिना कुर्याच्च दीक्षां पितु- ज्जोतो व्योम्नि पितुस्समस्तदधिपे लग्नस्थिते चाधिक:

Stanza 63 .- The son will be fortunate enough to perform the funeral ceremonies of the father if the 8th from the Moon in the father's horoscope happens to be the rising sign in the son's horos- cope; or if the lord of the 8th from the Moon in the father's chart happens to occupy the ascendant in the son's chart. One born in one of the asterisms owned by the lord of the 8th from the Moon in the father's horoscope will not only be blessed with children, prosperity and long life, but will also be able to do the ceremonies properly. If the 10th house from the Moon in the father's horoscope happens to be the rising sign of the son, he will resemble his father in everything ; if,

630 Prasna Marga

in addition to this the lord of the 10th occupies the rising sign of the son, the son will surpass his father in good qualities and wealth.

NOTES

Janma means Chandra Lagna. But according to some commentators, it may mean the rising sign also. The Lagna of the son may also mean the son's Chandra Lagna. Simi- larly, some commentators think that the 10th means 10th from Lagna and not from Chandra Lagna. We need not bother about these apparent differences in interpretations. Both Lagna and Cbandra Lagna are equally important.

यस्य स्यात् पितृजन्मतोऽत्र नवमो लाभो द्वतीयोथवा चन्द्राधिष्ठितराशिरेष सततं तातानुवर्ती भवेद्। यस्य स्यात् पितृजन्मभं खजनिभाल्लामे त्रिकोणेथवा लग्नेशाश्रितभाल्लमेत सकलं वित्तं स पित्रार्ज्जितम्

Stanza 64 .- If the rising sign of the son happens to be the 9th or 11th (or 2nd) house from the Moon in the father's horoscope, the son will be guided by the father in all principles of life. If the rising sign of the father happens to be the 11th house from the Moon in the son's horoscope, or if the rising sign of the father happens to be the 5th, 9th or 11th from the sign

Performing Obsequies 631

occupied by the lord of Chandra Lagna in the son's horoscope, then the son will be able to inherit and enjoy all his father's property.

लग्नेन्दुम्यां पितृगृहपतिः स्वस्वलग्नायगश्चेत् प्रीतिं कुर्यात् पितुरिह तु शुभ्रषया दीक्षया च। लग्नाधीशो नवमपतिना भानुना वा समेतो भाग्यस्थो वा यदि जनकवद्वृत्तिविद्याद्यु पेतः 118411

Stanza 65 .- If the lord of the 9th occupies the 11th, and the lord of the 9th from Chandra Lagna occupies the 11th from the Moon, the son will serve the father lovingly. If the lord of Lagna joins the Sun or lord of 9, or occupies the 9th house, the son will be similar to the father in occupation, education, character and all good qualities.

NOTES Stanzas 64 and 65 can be used for predicting the mutual relations between a son and his father. The son becomes worthy of the affection of his father, if (a) the son's ascendant falls in a sign which should be the 2nd, 9th or 11th from the Janma Rasi of the father; (b) the father's ascendant falls in a sign which should be in the 11th from the Janma Rasi of the son; (c) if the father's ascendant

632 Prasna Marga

is in a sign which in the son's horoscope happens to be the 5th, 9th or 11th from the sign occupied by the lord of Chandra Lagna in the son's horoscope; (d) lords of the 9th from Lagna and Chandra Lagna are in the 11th res pectively from Lagna and Chandra Lagna; (e) if the lord of Lagna joins the Sun or lord of the 9th or occupies the 9th.

HAPPINESS AND SORROW TO PARENTS

जातो यः पितृजन्मरिण्कपतिनक्षत्रेषु कुर्यात् पितु- ईुःखं दूरगमादिमिः स सततंः, बैरी भवेद्वैरिमे। यद्रिष्फाधिपसंयुतः खलु पितुर्जन्माधिपो यस्य वा रिष्फस्यः स च तावुभौ पुनवृणं नूनं लभेतां पितुः

Stanza 66 .- A son whose asterism happens to be owned by the lord of the 12th from Chandra Lagna in the father's horoscope will cause sorrow to the father by his travels and other actions; if the son's ascendant happens to be the 6th from the Janma Rasi of the father, or if the son's asterism happens to be ruled by the lord of 6th from father's Janma Rasi, he will be an enemy to his father. If the lord of Janma Rasi in the father's horoscope joins the 12th house or the lord of the 12th in the son's horoscope then the son will be required to redeem the debts of his father.

Performing Obsequies 633

NOTES

Suppose the !anma Rasi (the sign occupied by the Moon or Chandra Lagna) in the father's horoscope is Aries. The lord of the 12th is Jupiter. The asterisms of Jupiter are Punarvasu, Visakha and Poorvabhadra. If the son is born in any one of these stars, he will cause sorrow to the father by his undesirable activities.

The 6th from the Janma Rasi of the father is Virgo; Mercury who owns this sign has lordship of Aslesha, Jyeshta - and Revati. If the son's ascendant is Virgo or if his Janma Nakshatra (birth-star) is Aslesha, Jyeshta or Ravati, he will be his father's enemy.

Lord of father's Janma Rasi is Mars. Suppose the son's ascendant is Virgo. If Mars (in the son's horoscope) occupies Leo (12th from Lagna in the son's chart) or is in conjunction with the Sun (lord of the 12th in the son's horoscope), the son will have to redeem the debts of his father.

भावश्चेनवमश्चरे तदधिपो वायं व्यये चाष्टमे भानुर्वैवमिह स्थितिर्न सविधे तातस्य मृत्यों भवेत्। मार्गे स्यान्मरण श्रृतिर्द्वितनुमे स्थानं स्थिरे सन्निधौ सत्स्वमीक्षितसंयुते नवमभे नाथेस्य चार्के तथा।।६७।।

Stanza 67 .- If the 9th house happens to be a movable sign or if the lord of the 9th occupies a movaole sign and if the lord of the 9th or the Sun

634 Prasna Marga

occupy the 8th or 12th, then the son will not be near his father when he dies. If the above com- bination happens in a common sign, the son will hear the news of his father's death when he is away. If the yoga occurs in a fixed sign and if benefics aspect or join the 9th house or its lord, the son will be near his father, serve him on his death-bed and perform all death ceremonies carefully.

AFFLICTIONS TO RESIDENCE

कालोस्मिन् व्रासभूमेम गृहदोपोस्ति वा न वा। इति प्रश्ने कृते वक्तुं लक्षणं किमपीर्यते ॥६८।

Stanza 68 .-- To a query as to whether or not there are any planetary evils afflicting the house in which the native lives, the answer is to be made as follows :-

AVAKAHADA SYSTEM

अकला यदि नामाटौ भूमेर्लग्नं तु मेपभम्। आङवा इच ६): पमादीजळ: कर्कटोदयः ।६९।।

उट ०० ऊणना: पश्चादेह न एनना अळी। ए प ५०; ओमळाः प्ादोय १० और ना झषः ।७०।।

Avakahada System 635

Stanzas 69 and 70 .- Take the first letter in the name of the house, and fix the Lagna. The signs Aries to Pisces signify the letters: आक, अड, इच, ईज, उट, ऊण, एत, एन, ऐप, ओम, ओय and और. ल व वा ह ळ arc ruled by Aries to Leo. If any name begins with intervening letters it must be treated as belonging to the first letter in the varga. NOTES The explanation given below for these two stanzas is based on the clarification provided by an astrological savant in Kerala whom I met at the Astrological Conference held at Trichur in 1958. In the assignment of letters to the zodiacal signs, especially in regard to consonants, the peculiarity is if ka () is ruled by Aries, nga (& - the last in the series ka, kha, ga, gha 5) is ruled by Taurus. If the name commences from say kha ( or ga (T) or gha (T), then it must be treated as belonging to the first letter in the varga or series, viz., ka (5). Similarly the letter ta (2) is ruled by Leo and nna (UI) the last letter in the varga is ruled by Virgo which means the intervening three letters, viz., tta (3), da (3) and dha () should be considered as belonging to the first later t which means the Rasi is Leo. The savant also suggsted that the theory that la (), va (), ra (T) etc., are ruled by two Rasis, could be ignored and la (), va (T H taken to be ruled by Aries, Taurus, Gemisi Cancer and Leo respectively.

636 Prasna Marga

I must confess that I have neither used nor tested the principles given in these two stanzas. It is for the enterpris- ing student to experiment with the methods suggested.

According to the method given in stanzas 69 and 70. the Lagna of the land in which the house of the querist is situated is determined. Evidently this method is based on symbology and not on astrology proper.

लग्नत्रिकोणे गुरुरत्र लग्ने चरे गुरुस्तूभयराशि संस्थः।

द्वन्द्वे विलग्ने चरगः सुरेडयस्थिरे तु लग्ने स तु लग्न एव॥७१॥

Stanza 71 .- According as the ascendant (as per above two stanzas) happens to fall in a mov- able, fixed or common sign, Jupiter's situation in the horoscope of residence or land will be in the 9th, 1st or 5th sign respectively from the ascendant.

NOTES If the Lagna so determined is in a movable sign, then Jupiter is supposed to occupy the 9th from it. If the Lagna is a fixed sign, then Jupiter will be in the ascendant itself. If the Lagna is a common sign then Jupiter will be in the 5th from it.

अ व क ह डादिकविधिना विज्ञातव्यं हि जन्मनक्षत्रम्। नक्षत्रे विज्ञाते विज्ञेया स्थितिरनेन चन्द्रमसः ॥७२।।

Avakahada System 637

Stanza 72 .- The Nakshatra at the Bhumi Jataka should be ascertained on the basis of Avakahada and then the position of the Moon determined. NOTES The Nakshatra and Padas of the land or house should be ascertained according to what is called Avakahada principle. This principle has been discussed in may Muhurtha or Electional Astrology to which the reader may refer for furtber details. चन्द्राश्रिते वेश्मनि लग्नभे वा तयोई्योर्व,ष्टमयोश्र

स्थिता यदास्मिन् समये मृतिः स्यात्तद्वासिनां गोनर पूर्वकाणाम् ।७३।। Stanza 73 .- When malefic planets transit the Lagna or 8th from it or Chandra Lagna or the 8th from it, evil will befall the persons tenanting the land or the house in question. Livestock found there will also suffer from diseases or even death.

NOTES Here the reference to the Lagna and Chandra Lagna is in terms of stanzas 69, 70 and 71.

लग्नात् पश्चमथभेवा नवमभे यद्वा शशाङ्कात्सुते धेर्म वा धिषणप्रवेशसमये तद्वासिगर्भोद्द्वः ।

638 Prasna Marga

धर्मापत्यगराशिभेदवशात् स्त्रीणां गर्वा ना महिष्यादी- नामथवा सदा स्थितिजुर्षा गर्भग्रइस्तत् क्षितौ।।७४।। Stanza 74 .- When Jupiter passes (in transit) through Bhumi Lagna or Bhumi Chandra Lagna or 5th or 9th from them, the women or cows or buffaloes will conceive.

NOTES If the sign transited happens to be Aries, goats will conceive; if it is Taurus, cows and buffaloes will conceive. If the sign is Gemini, women will become pregnant. Similarly other signs should be dealt with.

अरिभवने सहजे वा बृहतां पत्यौ स्थिते कलहः। नृपपीडा निधनगते लग्नेन्दुर्म्यां वधो व्ययगे॥७५॥।

Stanza 75 .- According as Jupiter is in the 3rd or 6th or 8th or 12h from the Lagna or the Moon. there will respectively be quarrels on the land, the land will suffer due to the wrath of the ruler or murder will take place there.

NOTES

Some authors say the situation of Jupiter should be considered from Arudha Lagra and from the Mocn. If Jupiter (in the land horoscope) occupies the 3rd or 6th from Lagaa or the Moon some quarrel will take place

Becoming the Head 639

sooD. If Jupiter is in the 8th the land will suffer due to the wrath of the ruler. If Jupitcr is in the 12th house, a murder may take place in the land.

BECOMING THE HEAD आधिपत्यं भवेत् किं मे न वेति यदि पृच्छति। प्रभूणां कुलजः कश्चितं रक्तुं लक्ष्म कथ्यते ।७६।। Stanza 76 .- If a person born in a royal family asks when he would become the head or chief, the answer is to be given thus :

तत्र प्राग्जन्मकालीनविहगा: खलु सुस्फुटाः । गणनीया विशेषेणज्ञेयास्तारा स्तदाश्रिता:।।७७।। Stanza 77 .- The asterisms occupied by the different planets at the time of birth of the querist should be carefully determined.

सूर्येनद्वार विलग्नकर्मपतयस्ते येषु मेषु स्यिता स्तेष्वाद्यांशकपास्तदंशभवगा लग्नतिकोणेथवा। वीर्यान्वाः खलु यस्य स स्वककुलज्यैष्ठुतं लभेताचिरा- नैसेशा इतरत्र चेद्व्यमृतद्विइम्यः शनैज्यैष्ठथदाः ॥७८।

Stanza 78-Find out the asterisms occu- pied by the Sun, the Moon, Mars, the lord of Lagna and the lord of the 10th house from Lagna.

640 Prasna Marga

If the lords of the first quarters of these asterisms occupy 1st, 5th, 9th or 11th from the rising sign, the person will become the head very shortly. If these lords occupy 6th, 8th or the 12th, there is no chance of getting such overlordship. If they occupy positions other than those mentioned above, the person has to wait for a long time to get it.

NOTES Suppose the asterisms occupied by the Moon, Mars, lord of Lagna and the lord of 10th are respectively Aswini, Pubba, Krittika, Swati and Purvashadha. The lords of the Ist quarters ofthese stars are respectively Mars, the Sun, Jupiter, Jupiter and the Sun. It is the disposition of these planets that is to be considered as per stanza 78.

सूर्यादिकेतुचरमद्युचरेषु केचित्तारासु चेत्निगृतिश क्रपदास्थितासु।

मित्रादिकेषु पुनरष्टसु वात्र शीघ्रं ज्यैष्ठथं पदे सुरपतेः पयसां च पत्यु:।७९।। Stanza 79 .- If three or four planets are situated in the asterisms belonging to Indra or Nirithi groups or one of the eight asterisms beginning from Anuradha, the person gets over- lordship very soon.

Becoming the Head 641

कृत्तिकादिभरण्यंताः प्रदक्षिणतया स्थिताः। सर्वाखपिदिशास्वीशकोणादारम्य सर्वतः ।।८०।। Stanza 80 .- Beginning from Krittika and ending with Bharani, the 28 asterisms are allotted in a clockwise order to the eight cardinal points, in groups of three and half stars each. NOTES Including the Abhijit, there are twenty-eight asterisms. They have been allotted to the 8 cardinal points in the following order :--

Nakshatras Direction

Krittika Rohini North-East Mrigasira Aridra

Aridra 2 Punarvasu East Pushyami Aslesha

Makha Pubba South-East Uttara Hasta 2

Hasta 2 Chitta South Swati Visakha 41

642 Prasna Marga

Nakshatras Direction

Anuradha Jyeshta South-West Moola Poorvashadha 2 Poorvashadha 2 Uttarashadha West Abhijit Sravana

Dhanishta Satabhisha North-West Poorvabhadra Uttarabhadra 2 Uttarabhadra 2 Revati North Aswini Bharani

If three or four plarets in the Prasna chart occupy constellations belonging to the groups of Indra (Aridra, 3rd and 4th quarters, Punarvasu, Pushyamı and Aslesha), Varuna (Poorvashadha, Uttarashadha, Abhijit and Sravana), Niruthi (Anuradha, Jyeshta, Moola and Poorvashadha 2 quarters), he will become head of the estate at a very early date.

KALACHAKRA OR TIME CYCLE

नक्षवैः कालचक्रस्यैर्योगिन्य मृत्युना तथा। सम्प्रदायान्तरोक्तानि कथ्यन्ते लक्षणान्यथ।।८१।।

Star Positions in Kalachakra Diagram 643

Stanza 81 .- By examining Kalachakra, Nakshatra, etc., we can work out · Yogini and Mrityu'. From these processes also some effects can be predicted.

STAR POSITIONS IN KALACHAKRA

चतुरश्रत्रिकं कुर्यादन्तर्मध्ये वहिः क्रमात्। दण्डांश्च चतुरस्तदिककेणगांश्रक्रसिद्धये।।८२।।

दण्डानां प्रत्येकं चतुरश्रसमागमेषु मध्ये च। अभिजिद्युक्तास्तारा: स्थाप्या: स्युः सप्त सप् गणनाय ।।८ ३।।

दण्डाग्रादामध्मं निर्गत्यततोन्तिकस्थदण्डेन। एवं पुनः प्रवेशो निर्गमनं प्रोक्तवचच गणनमिह।।८४।।

Stanzas 82 to 84 .- Draw three squares, one inside the other and prepare a Chakra as given in the following diagram. Beginning from the centre of the top horizontal line establish the 28 stars (including Abhijit) in the 28 parts in the order shown in the diagram. Starting from No. 1, the count should be done in the order in which the figures are shown in the Chakra.

644 Prasna Marga

NE S.€

3 26

24 S 2

SU

S

प्राणोत्र प्रष्टताराठ् पुनरिति गणिते दक्षिणेनात्र देङ:। वामं शर्युस्य कोणाद्धतभ्ुज उड्डनो गण्यतां प्राग्वदत्र स्थानं मृत्योस्त्रयेस्मिन् स्थितवति मरणं प्रष्टुरेकत्र दण्डे

Stanza 85 .- Assign the star occupied by the Sun at the time of query to No. 1. Count from this to the star held by the Moon at the time of

Star Positions in Kalachakra Diagram 645

query and the point arrived at is Prana. Assign birth star to No. 1 and count from it to the Prana star. The point arrived at is Deha. Always assign Krittika to 28. Count from here to horary star in the anti-clockwise order. The point arrived at is Mrityu. If all these three points fall in the same line, it indicates death.

दण्डैक्यं यदि तत्र मृत्युवपुषो रुग्वृद्धिदैष्यांधिकं

प्रागाद्यग्निभपूर्वके च गणने पूर्वापरादन्यतो दण्डैक्यं गृळिकोर्कभार्तजननोडूनां विदध्यामृतिम् ॥८६।। Stanza 86 .- If Deha and Mrityu points fall on one and the same pole, then the sickness will be prolonged. If Mrityu and Prana fall on one and the same, the person will be dull and will have fits every now and then. Assign Krittika to 1. Count from it serially to the stars held by Gulika, by the Sun and by the birth Moon. If the three points fall in the same line or pole (except AC), then death is likely.

NOTES In the diagram given on page 644 A is the point from which the start of the count should te made. Suppose at the time of query, the Sun is in Aslesha, and the Moon in

646 Prasna Marga

Chitta while the birth star is Mrigasira. The points of Prana, Deha and Mrityu have to be ascertained thus : Prana : 1 represents Aslesha, the star held by the Sun. Counting from this to Cbitta, the star held by the Moon, in the order given in the diagram (the point of Prana) falls in 6. Deha: I represents Mrigasira the birth star. Counting from Mrigasira to Chitta in the same order, D (point of Deha) falls in 10 Mrityu : 28 always represents Krittika, the starting point. Counting from this to Chitta (in the reverse order) M (point of Mrityu) falls in 17. It will be seen that the three points have fallen in different lines or poles. Just as in the case of Prana, Deha and Mrityu, stanza 86 requires the consideration of the points arrived at by counting from Krittika (putting at No. 1) to the stars held by Gulika, the Sun and the birth Moon. Here also the points should not fall in the same pole. The centre pole (AC) is excepted which means that the three points, as per stanza 86, falling in AC, is not harmful. It is also implied if the three points, either as per stanza 85 or 86, fall in three different poles, the affliction does not arise.

POSITION OF YOGINI

योगिन्यर्कगतोड पुच्छदुड्ड यद्योकलगं ततुतं प्रष्टुर्मृत्युरिहैकदण्डगमिदं सम्बन्धिमृत्युप्रदम्।

Calculating the Yogini 647

प्राग्दण्डाग्रकशानुवाधिकमधः संगण्यतां दक्षिणं चक्रेस्मित् खलु योगिनी च चति प्रोक्तक्रमात् प्रत्यहम्।।८७।। Stanza 87 .- Assign A to Krittika: Count from it clockwise to the star held by the Sun. If this happens to coincide with the point signified by the birth star and Yogini, the native may die. If all the three points fall in the same line or pole, some of the relatives may die. The movement of Yogini is given below : NOTES Suppose the birth star is Mrigasira and the star held by the Sun at question time is Dhanishta and Yogini falls at 12 (in the Kalachakra diagram). Counting from Krittika (A) to birth star the point arrived at is 3. Counting again from A to Dhanishta (the star held by the Sun) the point arrived at is 21. Then the three factors do not fall in the same point. Nor do they fall in the same line. Hence the results ascribed in stanza 87 do not apply in this case.

CALCULATING THE YOGINI अर्कारार्यबुधाच्छमन्दशशिषु प्राच्यादिदिक्षूदिता गत्वाष्टासु दिशासु सायमुदयस्थानं पुनश त्रजेत्। मध्यं सवोद्रमदण्डतः पुनरतो दण्डद्वयं वामत- स्त्यक्त्वान्येन ब हित्रजेत्प्रथमयामे तद्धति स्त्वीदृशी।।८८।।

648 Prasna Marga

तस्मान्मध्यमतोथ दण्डयुगळं वामेन हित्वेतरे- णोर्ध्वं यातिगति पुनरितिस्यादन्ययामेष्वपि।

यामर्च्वश्ञविनाडिका नगसुगीज्ञैयः स कालो गते- र्वामान्तर्वृतिम ध्यमाङकणदलेष्वायाननिर्याणयोः।।८९।।

Stanzas 88 and 89 .- Yogini rises on Sunday to Saturday in the east (1), north (22), south-east (7), south-west (14), south (8), west (15) and north-east (21) respectively. After rising it travels in the course of the day, through all the 8 direc- tions and returns to the starting point by sunset. In the night it starts from the same point and moves once more through the various directions.

NOTES The rising and course of Yogini on different week-days and during different Yamas are as follows :- Sunday: Yogini rises in the east at point 1 (In the Kalachakra diagram) and in the first Yama travels through 2, 3, 4, 19 and 10 reaching north-west (21). In the 2nd Yama, it starts from north-west (21) and passes through 20, 19, 18, 10 and 9 reaching south (8). 3ad Yama: 8, (south) 9, 10, 11, 26, 27 (north-east) 4th Yama : 29 (north-east) 27, 26, 25, 17, 16 (west) 5th Yama: 15 (west), 16, 17, 18 5, 6 (south-east) 6th Yama : 7 (south-east) 6, 5, 4, 24, 23 (north) 7th Yama : 22 (north), 23, 24, 25, 12, 13 (south-west) 8th Yamą: 14 (south-west) 13, 12, 11, 3 2 (east).

Calculating the Yogini 649

Suppose the birth or the query time is at Gh. 25-30 after sunrise on a Sunday. Assume the su nrise to be a 6 a.m. This means that the birth has occutred when 3t ghatis have passed in the 7th Yama, the 6th having ended at Gh. 22-30 the duration of each Yama being Gh. 3ª (1}.hours). In each Yama, Yogini traverses 6 points so that it takes 37.5 vighatis to traverse each point. In the 7th Yama. 4 points (4x Vi. 37.5 Gh. 2}) have heen com- pleted and the 5th point is being traversed.

According to the table, (see p. 648) the 7th Yama starts at point 22 (north) and the 5th in the series happens to be 12 (south-wrst). Therefore the Yogini's place is at 12.

The eight directions are signified by the following aumbers thus :-

East =1, North-East=28, North=22, North-West=21 West=15, South-West=14, South=8, and South-East =7.

The rising and movement of the Yogini on other week- days can be tabulated as follows:

Yogini Rising Table (both for day and night)

Yama Monday Tuesdav Wednes- Thursday Friday Saturday day

1 2 3 4 5 6

North South- South- South West North- 1st East West West 22 7 14 8 15 21 South- North East North- South- South 2nđ West East East 14 22 1 28 7 8

East South- North- West North North- 3rd West West East 14 21 15 22 28

650 Prasna Marga

2 3 4 5 6

North- East South South- South- West 4th West East West 21 1 8 7 14 15

South North- North- North East South- 5th West East East 8 21 28 22 1 7

North- South West South- North- North 6th East West West 28 8 15 14 21 22

West North- South- East South South- 7th East East West 15 28 7 1 8 14

South- West North North- North- East 8th East West East 7 15 22 21 28 1

After Yogini rises, according to above table on diffe- rent week-days, it traverses 6 points (commencing with the point assigned to the direction of risiag) in each Yama in the order given for Sunday (vide notes above). To make it more clear: On Monday, in the Ist Yama, Yogini rises in the North, i.e., at point 22 and therefore follows the order 22, 23, 24, 25, 12 and 13 (e.g. order in 7th Yama on Sunday). Io the 2nd Yama on Monday, it rises in the south.west, i.e., at point 14 and traverses 13, 12, 11, 3 and 2 (e.g., order in 8th Yama on Sunday). Take again Saturday. The Yogini rises in the 1st Yama in north-west (point 21) and moves through 20, 19, 18, 10 and 19 (e.g., order in the 2nd Yama on Sunday).

For applying stanza 87, the exact point of Yogini (in Kalacbakra chart) has to be decided.

Calculating the Yogint 651

Example :- Required the position of Yogini at 2h. 16m. p.m. (I.S.T.) on Wednesday 16-10-1918. Duration of day Gh. 29-21 = 29 35 Time of birth in Ghatis Gh. 20-33 = 20.55 3 75 Duration of each Yama will be -- x 29.35 30 = Gh. 3.67 For the required time 5 Yamas have elapsed = 3 67 x 5= 18.35, Gh. 2-12 (Gh. 2, Vi. 12) having passed in the 6th

Yama This means the Yogini is - 2.18 >. 6 in the 4th 3.67 point. On Wednesday Yogini rises in the West (15) in the 6th Yama and moves in the order of 15, 16, 17, 18, 5, 6. The fourth point held by Yogini happens to be 18. In Kala- chakra diagram 18 falls on S.E. in the centre. In the same case, the Sun is in Chitta and the Janma Nakshatra is Satabhisha. Counting from Krittika (A) Chitta falls at 12 and Satabbisha falls at 22. The Yogini has fallen in central line or pole. The Sun has fallen in the Ist pole towards the south and the Moon on the last pole towards the north. Thus there is no affliction.

अहो यातविनाडिका मुखरयामत्वंशकाभ्यां हरेद्यामाः प्रष्टगृहे बहिर्व्ृतिमुखस्थानं च यातं फलम्।

योगिन्युक्तवदेव मृत्युचरणं चक्रेर्ति वारक्रमा- न्नित्यं वायुदिगादि चास्य गमनं प्रोक्तं मरुत्प्रद्यतः

652 Prasna Marga

Stanza 90 .- Convert the time (of question or birth) into Vighatikas after sunrise. Divide this by 225. The quotient is the number of Yamas expired from sunrise. Divide the remainder by 37. The quotient represents the point of Yogini in the diagram. The path of Mrityu is similar to that of Yogini. But there is difference with regard to its rising. On all days it rises in the north-west and passes through the various diks or cardinal points.

उद्गत्य वामं दिवसेष्टवारं भचक्रगोर्कोदयतः क्रमेण

Stanza 91 .- According to some, eachday in the first Yama Mrityu rises in the north-west (21); in the 2nd Yama south (8); in the 3rd Yama, north-east (28); in the 4th -west (15); 5th-south -east(3); 6th-north (22); 7th-south-west (14) and 8th-east (1). At the end of the 8th Yama it comes to east where it rises in the first Yama of the night repeating the same cycle. NOTES Yogini rises at different points (diks) on different week- days; but Mrityu rises on all week-days at point 21 corresponding to north-west). Its movemient during the

Calculating the Yogini 653

8 Yamas is as follows: It takes, as in the case of Yogini, 37.5 Vighatis to pass through each point of a Yama. 1st Yama 21, 20, 19, 18, 10, 9 ... 2nd Yama 8, 9, 10, 11, 26, 27 ... 3rd Yama 28, 27, 26, 25, 17, 16. ... 4th Yama 15, 16, 17, 18, 5, 6 5th Yama 7, 6, 5, 4, 20, 23 6th Yama ... 22, 23, 24, 25, 12, 13 7th Yama 14, 13, 12, 11, 3, 2 ... 8th Yama ... 1, 2, 3, 4, 18, 20, 21 The position of Mrityu can be located on the same basis as that of Yogini.

मेषादिकचरभानां दिश्युदयोऽन्तेषु मृत्युयोगिन्योः। मिथुनादिद्वन्द्वानां मध्येष्वग्न्यादिकोणेषु ॥९२।। Stanza 92 .- If Yogini and Mrityu rise in the posion of diks, take it as the end of the movable signs. When these rise in the corners, take it as middle of common signs.

NOTES In this stanza, we are enabled to locate the positions of Yogini and Mrityu in terms of zodiacal signs. If either Yogini or Mrityu occupies points denoting east, west, north or south, then the Rasis are Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capri- corn, etc. If the Yogini or Mrityu is in an angle (north- east, north-west, south-wast or south-east), then it is said to be in a common sign (Gemini, Virgo, Cancer, etc.). No fixed signs have come into the picture.

654 Prasna Marga

FEATURES OF YOGINI

दंष्ट्रायुग्मभयं कराञ्जननिभा संरक्तवृत्तेक्षणा नादापूरितदि ङमुखा वधरुचिः संध्याभ्रस्कांबरा।

मे दोमां सवपा विभूषिततनुर्भोगीशभोगाङ़गदा जन्तून् खड्गधारा निहन्ति निखिलान् मस्ा भृशं योगिनी ॥९३।।

Stanza 93 .- Yogini has two frontal teeth, She is fearful to look at. She is yellow in colour. Her eyes are red. Her terrible voice can be heard in all quarters. Her special taste is for killing. Her dress is of red hue as twilight. She adorns herself with the spoils of killing. Her bangles are serpents. She has a sword in hand which she uses for killing all. She is always deep drunk.

स्वाघिष्टितराशेः सा पादेनाक्रम्य तुर्यभ सुदृढम्। प्रहरत्यपि खडगेन दूय्नं हन्येत तत्रगस्तु तया।।९४।। Stanza 94 .- Yogini tramples on the 4th house from the sign she stands in ; and cuts the 7th house with her sword. NOTES The fearful appearance of Yogini is described to impress the unfortunate effects flowing from its position in the chart.

Movements of Yogini on Week-days 655

If the Aroodha Rasi of the questioner falls in the 4th or 7th from the sign held by Yogini, the querist will die. Of the two signs, the 7th is the worst.

सूर्याद्यहस्सु योगिन्याः पक्षमेदो न चोद्गमे। तचारे पुनरस्त्येप क्षोकपादैरथोच्यते ।९५॥। Stanza 95 .- With regard to the rise of Yogini in different directions according to week-days, there is no difference of opinion But with regard to its path, some authors hold different views and they are explained below.

MOVEMENTS OF YOGINI ON WEEKDAYS

केसरीभोगशेषो हि सझहारी कलावती। राजा गुणवता सेव्यो वारणासितदापगा ॥९६॥ लोकभीषणसंहारी मार्गतोहसिकेरवः। तव सम्पदसेगेण सूर्यवारादिपु क्रमात् ।।९७।। एकादिसंख्यावच नैरिह्दार्णै- रीन्द्राग्निपूर्वा: यथिता हि काष्टाः। अद्यासु दिक्षुदयनं क्रमेण चान्यासु चार: प्रतियाममार्याः ।।९८।। Stanzas 96, 97 and 98 .- On Sundays, Yogini rises in the east (1) and moves through 7, 2, 6, 3,

656 Prasna Morga

5, 6 and 8 diks respectively in the eight Yamas. Monday-7, 5, 8, 2, 1, 3, 4 and 6; Tuesday-2, 8, 3, 5, 4, 6, 7 and 1; Wednesday-4, 2, 5, 7,6, 8, 4, 3; Thursday-3, 1, 4, 6, 5, 7, 8,2; Fri- day-5, 3, 6, 8, 7, 1, 2 and 4; and Saturday-6, 4, 7, 1, 8, 23 and 15.

The numbers 1 to 8 respectively denote east, south-east, south, south-west, west, north-west, north and north-east, and also signify the 8 Yamas.

NOTES

The author explains matha bheda or difference of opi- nion and gives another method (we shall call it B) in vogue amongst a certain section of ancient astrologers in the matter of the movement of Yogini. (The earlier method described we shall term as A.) In the matter of the initial rising of Yogini in the 1st Yama, there is agreement. But in regard to its movement ithere is difference. And indeed the difference is formidable

Take for instance Sunday. According to method B, in the first Yama it rises in the east; (1) in the 2nd Yama it is in the north (7) ; in the third Yama south-east (2); in the fourth Yama, south-west (6) ; in the 5th Yama, west; in the 6th Yama west (5); in the 7th Yama north-west (6); and in the 8th Yama north east (8). For the convenience of the readers, the rising of Yogini (on Sunday) according to methods A and B is tabulated as follows :

Movements of Yogint on Week-days 657

Ywama Method A Method B

Ist East (1) East (1) 2nd north-west (21) north (7) 3rd south (8) south-east (2) 4th north-east (28) south-west (4) 5th west (15) south (3) 7th north (22) north. west (6) 8th south-west (14) north-east (8) According to method A, numbers given in brackets represent direction as shown in the Kalachakra diagram. According to method B, numbers indicate the directions in the regular order of east (1), south-east (2), etc. According to method A Yogini having risen say in the east on Sunday touches points 2 3, 4, 19 and 20, in the Ist Yama, whereas according to B, no such movement within the Yama is indicated.

सूर्याधिहस्सु यस्यां दिश्युदयोतः परा दिशः। यामक्रमेण गत्वान्त्ये यामे यात्यष्टमीं दिश्म् ।।९९।। Stanza 99 .- Thus Yogini after rising in a particular Dik traverses through the various Diks in different Yamas and reaches the 8th Dik after 8 Yamas. NOTES Suppose on a particular week-day it rises at a particu- lar Dik. or direction, e g, Sunjay, in the east in the Ist Yama. In the 2od Yama it reaches the 7th cardinal point (Dik) therefrom; in the 3rd Yama, the 4th therefrom; in 42

658 8 Prasna Marga

the 4th Yama the 3rd therefrom; in the 5th, the 8th from it ; in the 6th, 3rd from it ; in the 7th, the 2nd from it; and in the 8th Yama the 3rd from it. This is the order in which the Yogini moves on all days. In other words, Yogini returns to the 8th Dik from the starting Dik at the end of the 8th Yama.

For example, take Monday. Yogini rises in the north in the Ist Yama; in the 2nd Yama the 7th Dik (from the north) viz., west. In the 3rd Yama it moves into the 4th therefrom (west), i.e., north-east ; in the 4th Yama it moyes into the 3rd from northeeast, viz, south-east ; in the 5th Yama it moves into the 8th fiom south-east, viz , east. In the 6th Yama it gets into the 3rd from east, viz., south. In the 7th Yama it traverses the 2nd from south, viz .. south west ; and in the 8th Yama Yogini gets into the 3rd from west, viz., north-west which Dik happens to be the 8th from the rising Dik north.

LONGITUDES OF YOGINI AND MRITYU

चोळेनेष्टघटीनिंहत्य विभजेदहः प्रमित्या फलं राशि: शिष्टत आनयेल्लवकला: संशोध्य भान्मण्डलम्।

केसर्यादिमरुंदमादिषु तदा तत्तत्स्फुटं संभवेत् ॥१०० ।।

Stanza 100 .- Multiply the Ishta Ghatis by 96. Divide the product by 30. The quotient is the

Longitudes of Yogini and Sphuta 659

Rasi. Reduce the remainder to degrees, minutes, etc. Expunge multiples of 12. (a) Note the Rasi Yogini is in at the required time. (b) Then deduct (a) from (b). The exact sphuta of Yogini is obtained. By a similar process the position of Mrityu can also be known.

NOTES

Let us again take the example given under stanzas 88-89, viz , birth on Wednesday 16-10-1918 at about 2h. 15m. or Gh. 20.33 (i e., 20 55) after sunrise. Duration of day = 29.35 Cn the day and at the time of birth Yogini is in the 4th point in the 6th Yama, which means the point held by Yogiai happens to be 18 in the Kalachakra diagram and this falls on S.E. in the centre. This means Yogini is in the middle of Virgo (15°) or Kanya. Now applving this stanza Ishta Ghatis x 96 20 33 x 96

30 30 = 65.056 = 65 signs and 1° 40' 45' Expunging multiples of 12 we get 5s 1° 40' 48" (a) Yogini's Rasi position is 3s 15° (b) Deducting 5s 1° 40' 48" (i.e., a) from 5s 15° (b) we get 5s 15° 0' 5s 1° 40' 48" 0 14° 40' 48" = The longitude of Yogini is Aries 14° 40° 48".

660 Prasna Marga

Regarding the position of Mrityu in the above example (a) is common to both Yogini and Mrityu. As regards (b), i:e., the Rasi position of Mrityu. It rises each day in the N.W. (corresponding point 21) unlike Yogini which rises in different directions on different days. In the 6th Yama the 4th point happens to be 25 (vide stanza 91) which means north. The Rasi position of Mrityu is Capricorn 30°. Therefore b - a, i.e., 300° - 151° 40' 48" = 148° 19' 12", i.e., the position of Mrityu = Leo 28° 19' 12". मृत्योरन्तः प्रवेशो वितरति मरण निर्गमे नैव मृत्यु- स्तन्निर्याणं पुरस्तद्यदि तरुपतनं गोमृतिर्वद्धिकोणे। कार्तान्त्यां मर्त्यमृत्युर्निगृतिदिशि मृगस्यांतुपे कासराणा

Stanza 101 .- If the query is made at the time when Mrityu is passing into the interior predict that the questioner will die. If Mrityu happens to go out, then the native will not die. If he goes out through the east at the time, a tree will fall down. If he issues out through south-east, cows will die. If he goes out through south, some of his near relatives will die. If he goes through south-west, animals such as deer will die near. If he goes out through west, female buffaloes will die. If he goes out through

Movement of Mrityu 661

north-west, high amongst Chandalas will die. If he goes out through north, low amongst Chandalas will die. If he goes out through north-east, Brah- mins near will die. Carefully study the diagram and see when he goes in and when he goes out by noting points.

MOVEMENT OF MRITYU

नटृत्वां भृत्यनाशो वावारुण्यां वा चतुष्पदाम्। जीवन्ति रोगिणो नूनमेतेषां सति संभवे ॥१०२।। Stanza 102 .- According as at the time query is put Mrityu issues out through south-west or west then servants or quadrupeds of the ques- tioner will die If these events happen, then it can be predicted that the questioner will not die. प्राच्यामन्तःप्रवेशे प्रभुजनमरणं वह्निकोणेऽग्निभीति- र्मूर्च्छा कस्यापि पुगाशनत इनजदिश्यात्मनोतश्व दौस्थ्यम्। नैपृत्यां पाशभृद्दिश्पतिसरणमपि छर्दिरित्यब्जरोगा- आापे चौर्योत्थरावः शशिनि स मृगभू: प्रष्टमूर्च्छेशकोणे ॥१०३।। मृत्योरन्तर्गमने यल्क्षणमिति समीरितं तस्य। संभव इड यदि मरणं प्रष्ुनिस्संशयं प्रवदेद् ॥१०४।।

662 Prasna Marga Stanzas 103 and 104 .- In the Poorvardha of a yama if Mrityu gets in through the east Dik at the time of the query, death of a person belonging to the ruling class may happen in a near place. If Mrityu gets in through south-east Dik, incendia- rism is to be feared. If through south, some person falls unconscious due to excessive eating of nuts; if south-west, the questioner himself may get sick by eating nuts; if west, he will have watery diseases as dysentery, vomitting, etc .; if north- west, trouble from thieves and consequent uproar ; if through north-east, sudden fits. If these ominous signs take place, you can predict the death of the questioner is certain.

वारोदयेष्वनुदिनं क्रमशोथ दिग्भ्यः । उद्धत्य गच्छति हि मृत्युरिद्द क्रमेण कालोन्यथाहि निशि राशिषु च त्रिवारम्॥१०५।।

Stanza 105 .- According to Sara Samgraha Mrityu rises thus at the the time of sunrise. Sunday in the east, Tuesday south-east, Thursday south, Wednesday south-west, Friday west, Saturday north-west and Monday north. It traverses through the 8 points of the compass thrice in the

Movement of Mrityu 663

day-time and thrice in the night-time in a clock- wise direction. 'Kala' also rises in the same Diks as Mrityu but traverses through the cardinaj points in an anticlockwise direction thrice in day-time and thrice in night time. NOTES How Mrityu and Kala are to be calculated have been given in Chapter V, Verse 23. योगिन्यत्रसहोदिता मृतियमस्थाने दिनाष्टांशकं नीत्वा गच्छति वारदिश्यनुदिनं त्वीशानदिश्यष्टमे। प्राच्यांचेत्स्थितिरेव मेषवृषयोरद्ष्टिस्तुलाकीटयो- योम्यादौ च तथैव यामदळयोः कोणेषु यामावधि ॥१०६।।

द्वागीशस्फुजिदर्कपृत्रदिवसेषूदयाति सा योगिनी। यामैस्सप्तमिरेव सप्तसु दिशास्व्रैककयामक्रमा- दास्थायन्तिमयामथोर्दिननिशोरीशानदिकस्थया भबेत् ।१०७/। Stanzas 106 and 107 .- Yogini stays along with Kala and Mrityu in the Dik (cardinal point) where these rise, during the first Yama on all days. In the 2nd Yama Yogini stays in the rising direc- tion of the next day; in the 3rd, in the rising

664 Prasna Marga

direction of the 3rd day; in the 4th Yama the fourth day and so on. In the 8th it will stay in the north-east on all days. East signifies Aries and Taurus The first and the second parts of the Yama denote Aries and Taurus respectively. Similarly, south signifies Cancer and Leo, the west Libra and Scorpio and north Capricorn and Aquarius. South-east, south-west, north-west and north-east respectively represent Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces and Gemini. Yogini aspects the 7th sign from the sign occupied by it. If the Arudha Lagna of the querist happens to be the 4th or 7th from Yogini, death may take place.

NOTES In the matter of calculation of Yogini, etc., there appears to be much repetition. Therefore one will do well to stick to the methods suggested in the earlier stanzas of this chapter. According to stanzas 106 and 107 the movement of the Yogini will take place thus: SUNDAY 1st Yama-east, 2nd north (same as 1st on Monday), 3rd south east, 4th south-west, 5th south, 6th west, 7th north-west, 8th north-east. MONDAY Ist north, 2nd south-east (same as 1st on Tuesday), 3rd south-west, 4th south, 5th west, 6th north-west, 7th east and 8th north-east.

Yogini Moment vis-a vis Luxar Days 665

The 1st on Tuesday will te south-east (the 2nd on Monday). This way the Yogini cycle can be calculated for all week-days. Stanza 107 merely clarifies what is given in stanza 106.

YOGINI MOVEMENT

अष्टानां च तिथीनां दळदये तद्वदष्टयामेपु। योगिन्याश्वारदिशो वक्ष्यन्ते श्रोंकपादेन॥१०८।। Stanza 108 .- The movement of Yogini through the various tithis or lunar days are described in the form in which Yogini's move- ment during the week-days has been given.

कंसारिभोगमतिदा सोमदारा: कलावती। रजोंणुणवती सेयं भाद्रमासि तदापगा॥१०९।। लोकवर्तीशसंहरि शार्ङ्गी तद्दासपुत्रवान्। स्तंमे सकृदरोगेण हतः कालोत्र भौमसः ॥११०॥ दळदूये प्रतिपद: कंसारीत्युदिता दिशः। यामेष्यपृसु विज्ञेया द्वितीया दळयोईयोः॥१११॥ सोमदारादिकासद्वत्वतीयादळयो: पुनः। रजोगृणवतीत्यादी चतुर्थिदळयोरथ ।११२।।

666 Prasna Marga

भाद्रमासीति गादिता: पञ्चम्या दळयोस्ततः। लोकवर्त्यादिका: षष्टयाः शार्ङ्गीत्याद्या दिश:स्मृताः

स्तंभेस्ताद्यास्तु सप्तम्या अष्टम्याश्च हतादिकाः । नवम्यादिषु तद्वत्स्याद्यथा प्रतिपदादिषु ।११४।। दळद्वये योगिनी स्यादित्युक्ता तिथियोगिनि ॥११५॥।

Stanzas 109 to 115 .- Yogini rises and moves during the eight Yamas in the eight directions on different lunar days as follows :-

Prathama and Navami (1st and 9th): east, north, south-east, south-west, south, west, north- west and north-east; Dwiteeya and Dasami (2nd and 10th): north-west, north-east, south-east, east, south-west and north-west; Triteeya and Ekadasi (3rd and 11th): south-east, north-east, south, west, south-west, north-west, north and east; Chathurthi and Dwadasi (4th and 12th): south-west, south-east, west, north, north-west, north-east, east and south; Panchami and Trayo- dasi (5th and 13th): south, east, south-east, north- west, west, north, north-east and south-east; Shashti and Chaturdasi (6th and 14th): west, south, north-west, north-east, north, east, south- east and south-west; Saptami and Pournamasya

Yogini Movement vis-a-vis Lunar Days 667

or Amavasya (7th and 15th or 30th): north-west, south-west, north-east, south-east, south and west ; and Ashtami (8th): north-east, north- west, east, south, south-east, south-west, west and north. The same arrangement holds good both for bright and dark halves.

NOTES These stanzas deal with the rise and movement of Yogini on different lunar days Except ashtami (8th day), two lunar days are clubbed together implying that on both these days the same arrangement holds good. For instance let us take shashti (6th) and chaturdasi (14th). The Yogini rises in the west in the first Yama, goes to south in the 2nd Yama, to north-west in the 3rd Yama, north-east in the 4th, north in the 5th, east in the 6th, south-east in the 7th and south-west in the 8th Yama.

The Diks or points of compass are indicated in letters. Their conversion into numbers is given in the appendix.

योगिन्या यदि दृष्टौ लग्नारूढौ च जन्मलग्ने वा। मृतिदौ भवतो जीवौ योगिन्या मुखगतश्रापि ॥११६।।

Stanza 116 .- If Yogini aspects the birth Lagna or Arudha Lagna, the querist will meet with his death. NOTES The birth Moon is also included in this combination. Yogini should not aspect the birth-Moon.

668 Prasna Marga

HELL AND HEAVEN

पातः किं नरके मे किं वास: स्वर्गे घनागमः। कार्थंवेति कृते प्रश्ने वक्तव्यमथ कथ्यते ॥११७।।

Stanza 117 .- For questions like "shall I fall in hell", "will I go to heaven", "can I get wealth " answers should be given as follows :

स्थूणत्रयविषघटिका विष्टिर्गण्डान्तर्वेधृतो लाटः। परिवेषव्यतिपातक धूमार्गळमन्दपूर्वचतुरुदयाः॥११८। एते दोषा नरकपतनं सूचयन्तीह नृणां प्राग्लग्ने वा तुहिनरुचि वा संभवन्तोथवार्के। दुःखं मानक्षयमघनतां नारकानेव विद्या- दस्मिन् लोके पुनरतितरां चन्द्रदोषैः स्युरेतैः॥११९॥ Stanzas 118 and 119 .- The three sthunas, vishaghatika, vishtikarana, gandantha, vaidhriti lata parivesha, vyathipatha, dhuma, ekargala, rising of Saturn, rising of Rahu, rising of Ketu and rising of Gulika are the doshas. If these doshas afflict the ascendant, the Moon or the Sun, the native suffers hell in this world itself, which consists of sorrow, dishonour and poverty.

He l and Heaven 669

NOTES

The three sthunas are (1) Kantakasthuna, (2) Rakta- sthuna and (3) Sthuna.

अर्कक्षोणीसुतारयां भवति गणनया नैटृंत यावदस्मा- सावत्यौ तारके द्वे क्रमश इह मते कण्टकस्थूणसंज्ञे। नाभ्यामामूलसंख्याद्वययुति गणितः कण्टकस्थूणनामा- रक्तस्यूणोवसिष्ट क्षितिसुतरहिते सिंहंधृत्यंशके स्यात् #१२०॥

विषादिदोषैरुदितैः समेते प्रसूतिलग्ने निरयः परत्र। आरुढमे प्रश्न उदुप्रभौ वा दोषान्वितेत्रोष्णकरे परत्र ॥१२१।

Stanzas 120 and 121 .- The asterism arrived at by counting from Moola, the same number as intervenes between the nakshatra held by the Sun at the time of query to Moola, is called kantaka nakshatra. The same reckoning with reference to Mars gives sthuna. The asterism arrived at by counting from Moola that number which is the sum of the kantaka and sthuna asterisms gives kantakasthuna. By subtracting the longitude of Mars from 138°, raktasthuna is obtained. If these doshas afflict Arudha Lagna or the Moon at the time of query, the native's life in this world

670 Prasna Morga

will be equivalent to hell. If the Sun either in the birth chart or in the query chart is afflicted by these doshas, the native goes to hell after death.

NOTES

How to calculate the sthunatraya (three sthunas) have been explained in the above two stanzas. (1) Count from the star or constellation held by the Sun to Moola. Note the number. Count the same number from Moola, the star held by kantaka is obtained. Example .- The Sun is in Aslesha. Counting from this star to Moola we get 11. Counting 11 from Moola we get Bharani. Therefore kantaka is in Bharani. (2) Mars is in Pubba. Counting from Pubba to Moola we get 9. Counting 9 from Moola we get Revati. Therefore the position of sthuna is Revati. (3) Adding the number of the kantaka star (Bharani- 2) to the number of the sthuna star (Revati-27) we get 29, i.e., 2, after expunging 27. The 2nd from Moola is Poorvashadha. Therefore kantakasthuna is in Poorvashadha. (4) Longitude of Mars is 125°. Subtracting this from 138° the result is 13. This falls in Aswini. Therefore, ›aktasthuna is Aswini.

SIGNS OF KRITA YUGA ETC

नृणामायुः सहसत्रं कृतयुगसमये तद्दलं तस्य चार्द्ध- त्रेतायां दवापरे वा कलियुग उदितः स्याद् सहस्राष्टभागः।

Signs ef Krita yoga. Etc. 671

पूर्णार्धाङ्घ्रयष्टभागान् निजनिजशरदां तत्तदारव्यालयांशा रुढा: खेटा: प्रददयुस्त्वजमुखभवतुष्कत्रिकोणः कृताद्याः

Stanza 122 .- The longevity of man in Krita, Treta, Dwapara and Kali Yugas respectively are 1000, 500, 250 and 125 years. Planets occupying the signs and Navamsas of Krita, Treta, Dwapara and Kali Yugas contribute their Dasa years, in full. half, quarter or one-eighth respecttvely as the longevity of the person. NOTES The Kritayuga signs are Aries Leo and Sagittarins; Thretayuga signs are Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn; Dwapara yuga signs are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius ; and Kaliyuga siens are Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.

यज्जननं कृतयुगमे दैवनियोगादुपेत्य सकलजनाः। धनपस्मै ददुरथ त्रेतायामर्थलव्धिरटनेन ॥१२३। द्वापरभे स्वीयधनव्यापारात् कलियुगे न केनापि। एवं फलदा विहगाः कृतपूर्वयुगामिधानराशिगताः ।।१२४। स्वदशापहृतिप्रभृतिषु समयेष्विह चिन्त्यतां तदंशोपि ।१२५।।

672 Prasna Marga

Stanza 123 to 125 .- Persons born in Krita yuga signs or Navamsas get everything unasked. Those born in Tretayuga signs will get wealth, etc., if they aspire for them. Those born in Dwaparayuga signs will be able to make money by trade, etc. Those born in Kaliyuga signs cannot get wealth by any of these ways. This theory can be skilfully used for inter- preting Dasa and Bhukti results. NOTES In interpreting effects of planets occupying signs of different categories listed above, one has to take due note of their own inherent strengths and weaknesses. A literal application is not called for. It is also suggested that in regard to qiestions bearing on financial matters, the princi- ples given in the above three stanzas could be applied. Thus if at the time of query, the lord of the 2nd is disposed in the 11th which happens to be a Kritwyuga sign, then tbe forecast can be made that witbout much effort his financial problems will be : traitened. CONCLUSION The sixteen Chapters of the first part have been com- pleted. The work Prasna Marga has been written in defe- rence to the wishes of my desciples. Prasna Marga has been divided into two parts- Purvardha and Uttarardha .- The first part ends with 16 Chapters.

॥ हति प्रश्नमार्गे पोडशोध्यायः॥

APPENDIX I

Rise of Gulika Kala etc., during day and night in Ghatikas

Gulika Kala Ardha Yama Rahu Week day Prahara D. N. D. N. D. N. D. N. D.N.

Sunday 26 10 30 6 14 30 22 6 26}

Monday 22 6 2 14 26 10 18 2 31

Tuesday 18 2 22 6 6 22 14 26 22₺

Wednesđay 14 26 2 30 18 14 10 22 15

Thursday 10 22 6 2 30 26 6 18 18₺

Friday 6 18 14 22 10 6 2 14 11

Saturday 2 14 6 2 22 18 26 10 7₺

D=Day; N=Night

For example on Sunday Gulika's position coincides with the Lagna rising at Gh. 26 after sunrise; at Gh. 10 after sunset. Similarly with regard to other tertiary p'anets.

43

674 Prasna Marga APPENDIX II

Siddha Yoga Amrita Yoga Mrityu Yoga *Dagda Yoga Asubba Yoga Vara Soola Yoga

Sunday Hastba Moola Makha Dwađasi Bharani West-12

Monday Sravana Sravana Visakha Ekađasi Chitra East-8

Tuesday Aswini Uttara Aridra Panchami Uttarashadha North-16

Wednesday Anuradha Krittika Moola Dwiteeya Dhanista North-16

Thursday Pushyami Punarvasu Satabhisha Shashti Jyeshta South-20

Friday Revati Uttarabhađra Rohini Ashtami Purvasbadha West-12

Saturđay Rohini Swathi Uttarashadha Navami Revati East-8

Explanation : Sunday coincidirg with Hasta gives Siddha Yoga. Monday coinciding with Ekadasi (11th lunar day) gives Dagdha Yoga

APPENDIX III Mrityu Bhagas of Planets and Rasis

#Kumbha x Meena $Makara ¥ Dhanus B Thula g Kataka 3Vrischika 3 Kanya Mithuna O Simha Vrishabha 3 Mesha

Ravi 12 16 22 2 3 20 6 8 21 17 22 6

13 25 5 12 Chandra 14 D 26 12 13 25 24 11 26

K uja 19 18 25 23 29 28 14 21 2 15 11 6

Budha 15 14 13 12 8 18 20 .0 21 22 7 5

Guru 21 19 29 12 27 6 4 13 10 17 11 15 28

Sukra 28 15 11 17 10 13 4 6 27 12 29 19

Appendix III 675 28 14 13 15 10

Sani 10 7 9 12 16 3 18 A

1 9 21 22 25 2 4 23 18 20 10 24 Rasi

Rahu 14 13 12 11 24 23 22 21 10 20 18 8 Co

Ketu 18 20 10 21 22 23 24 11 12 13 14 00

Gulika P 23 24 11 12 13 14 8 18 20 10 21 2

676 Prasna Marga

APPENDIX IV Chandra Kriya

1, Displaced from position, 2. Do penance, 3. Enjoy with other women, 4. Steal, 5. Ride on an elephant, 6. Sit on a throne, 7. To be a king, 8. Kill the enemies, 9. To be a Commander, 10. To do good to others, 11. To be lifeless in everything, 12. To be wounded in the head, 13. To have hands and legs wounded, 14. To be impri- soned, 15. To be ruined, 16. To be a king, 17. To study Vedas, 18. To sleep, 19. To think about good stories, 20. To do good actions, 21. To be born of a noble family. 22. To get treasures, 23. To keep a balance in one's hand, 24. To annotate, 25. To kill enemies, 26, To be sick, 27. To be defeated by enemies, 28. To leave one's native place, 29. To be a servant, 30. To be without money, 31. To be in a wrong place, 32. To be with a good minister, 33. To govern another's country or property 34. To be with a wife, 35. To be afraid of elephants. 36. To be timid in warfare, 37. To be timid in everything, 38. To remain hidden from view, 39. To give food freely, 40. To occupy a fiery spot (to sit on fire) 41. To be hungry, 42. To eat food, 43. To travel, 44. To eat flesh, 45. To be wounded in war by arrows, 46. To marry, 47. To play balls, 48. To gamble, 49 To be a king, 50. To be miserable, 51. To set on a bed, 52. To be served by enemies, 53. To be with relatiors, 54. To be engaged in meditation, 55. To be with wife, 56. To eat plentifully, 57. To drink milk. 58. To do good actions, 59. To have mental peace, 60. To enjoy.

Appendix V 677

APPENDIX V Chandra Vela

1. Headache, 2. Delight, 3. Worship of Devas, 4. Desire in happiness, 5. Disease in the eyes, 6. Enjoyment, 7. Slay with women, 8. High fever, 9. To put on orna- ments, 10. To shed tears, 11. To drink pioson, 12. To cohabit with women, 13. To have stomach complaints, 14. To play in water, 15. To laugb, 16. To paint, 17. Anger, 18. Play, 19. To drink ghee, 20. To sleep, 21. To sing, 22. Disease in the teeth, 23. To quarrel, 24. Journey, 25. To get mad, 26. To jump in water, 27. Opposition, 28. To do as he pleases, 29. Fear from hunger, 30. Education, 31. To amuse oneself, 32. To fight, 33. To do good action, 34. To do bad actions, 35. To do cruel actions, 36. Delight.

APPENDIX VI Chandra Avasthas

1. To go to a foreign place leaving one's profession, 2. To occupy a throne, 3. Loss of life, 4. Kingship, 5. To do actions befitting one's family, 6. Sickness, 7. To occupy a wrong place, 8 Fear, 9. Hunger, 10. To marry a woman, 11. To lie on a good bed, 12. To take good food

APPENDIX-VII Nature of Drekkanas (578 Prasna Marga Rasi First Drekkana 2nd Drekkana 3rd Drekkana

Mesha Nara, Purusha, Ayudha Sthira, Mriga, Soumya Purusha, Ayudha and Krura Drekkana Misra Vrishabha Sthree, Agni, Misra Purusha, Mriga, Soumya Purusha, Jalachara Mithuna Sthree, Soumya Purusha, Pakshi, Misra Purusha, Ayudha, Jalachara Kataka Purusha, Chatushpada, Sthree, Sarpa, Krura Purusha, Sarpa, Jalachara Jalachara. Misra Simha Pakshi, Chathushpada, Nara, Ayudha, Mishra, Purusha, Chathushpada, Nara, Krura Raja Ayudha, Krura Kanya Stree, Agni, Soumya Purusha, Nara, Jalachara Sthree, Soumya Taula Purusha, Soumya Pakshi, Purusha, Misra Purusha, Chathusbpada, Vana Vrischika Sthree, Sarpa, Krura Sthree, Sarpa, Krura Chathushpada, Vana, Nara, or Kurma Mukha Jhala-Krura Dhanus Narmukha, Ayudba, Sthree, Soumya Nara, Ayudha, Soumya Chatushpada, Misra Makara Nara, Nigala, Krura, Sthree, Soumya Purusha, Aswamukha, Chathushpada Ayudha, Misra Kumbha Pakshi, Nara, Krura Sthree, Vana, Soumya Nara, Oushadha, Vana, Soumya Meena Nara, Jala Sthree, Jhala Purusha, Sarpa, Agni, Vana, Krura

APPENDIX VIII Finding Time with the help of the Sun's Shadow

Ghatikas Virgo and Libra and Scorpio and Gemini Leo and Sagittarius Taurus and Aries Pisces Aquarius Capricoro Cancer

.

67 64 63 0 64 0 68 70 0 0 69 0 31 32 0 34 35 0 33 0 34 0 12345678 32 0 21 20 0 23 0 22 23 22 0 16 0 0 0 22 15 15 0 15 0 17 0 16 0 16 0 12 0 12 0 12 0 12 10 0 13 0 12 0 13 0 9 9 0 10 0 6 3 1 5 0 11 9 7 7 4 7 3 7 7 8 6 9 1 8 0 8 2 6 1 6 5 3 6 5 6 7 6 1 7 6 8 7 5 0 5 0 5 4 6 3 6 7 5 3 5 4 10 4 3 0 4 4 5 6 4 0 5 5 4 3 7 4 7 5 3 3 3 4 3 7 Appendix VIII 679 11 1 3 1 4 6 3 1 12 2 3 2 5 3 3 3 2 0 2 1 4 5 2 4 13 1 5 1 6 2 7 1 6 3 6 4 0 4 5 2 0 14 0 1 2 4 0 3 1 1 2 5 3 7 4 3 1 2 1 5 15 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 6

8 Angulams=1 foot. '=Foot, "= Angulam. N.B .- These ghatikas are to be calculated both after sunrise and before sunset. Eg., if the shadow is 64 ft. it is either 1 ghatika after sunrise or before sunset in the months of Simha and Mesha (1st). For other dates find out by proportion.

680 Prasna Marga APPENDIX IX "Yogini" Diks

Dik Bright Half Dark Half (Sukla Paksha) ( Krishna Paksha)

East 1. Prathama 11. Ekadasi 6. Sbasthti North 2. Dwiteeya 12. Dwadasi Saptami South- 3. Thritheeya 13. Trayodasi 8 Ashtami East South- 4 Chaturtbi 14. Chaturdast 9. Navami West South 5. Panchamı 15. Pournami 10 Dasami West 6. Sbasti 1. Prathama 11. Ekadasi North- 7. Saptami 2. Dwiteeya 12. Dwadasi West North- 8. Ashtami 3 Thrithreya 13. Thrayodasi East Akatam 9. Navami 4. Chathurthi 14. Chaturdasi Bhoomi 10. Dasami 5. Parchami 15. Amavasya

AN INDEX OF TECHNICAL TERMS

A

Abhichara Incantations meant to harm others Adbomukha ... The sign occupied by the Sun Adhrishta ... Invisible or supernatural cause of events Adrishta nimittaja ... Events arising from unknown causes. Aghorabali Sacrificial offering to a form ... of Siva or the Sun Agnitattva ... Fiery signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius Amaya ... Costus speciosus Amita ... Longevity beyond hundered years Anasana Fasting Angara North-west; charcoal Angula One eighth of an inch ... Anishta Houses 6, 8, 12 from the Ascendant Antara Bhavas ... Part of the house indicating the internal Anujanma The tenth and the nineteenth ... stars from the birth star Apasmara Epilepsy Ara Mars ... Ari ... Enemy ; sixth house

682 Prasna Marga

Arishta ... Death within 12 years; harmful Artha Fortnight ... Arudha ... The siga rising at the time of the query Ashtamangala An elaborate method of ... horary astrology described in Chapter 7 Ashtama Rasi ... Eighth house Ashtottari A system of the periods of the ...

Aspada planets covering 108 years Tenth house ... Asthi Bone, ruled by the Sun ... Astodaya Heliacal setting and rising of ... a planet Asu ... Sixth part of a Vighati; four seconds Asura graha demonaic spirit ... Avastha ... State or condition attributed to a planet on the basis of the sign occupied. See p. 235 Aya Eleventh house ... Ayana Six months ... Ayushkaraka ... Saturn Ayyappa ... The deity Sasta

B

Badhaka ... A planet that obstructs or is harmful. It is the lord of the eleventh sign for

An Index of Technical Terms 683

movable ascendants, the lord of the ninth for fixed ones, and the lord of the seventh for common signs. Also see Chap. 15 : 111-113 Baghyabhava Part of the house dealing with external affairs Balagraha ... Spirits of children who had a premature or unnatural death Balaprabhakshini ... An evil spirit preying on children Bali Sacrifice ... Balikarma Act of offering a sacrifice ... Balya A planet in a friend's house ... Bandhu Relatives; fourth house ... Bhadrakali A form of protecting Goddess ... Bhairava A deity who follows Sivag ...

Bhaktavirodha ... Loss of appetite Bharadwaja ... Skylark, a Sage

Bhasa ... Vulture

Bhasma ... Ashes ; North

Bhasmaka graha ... A spirit that causes unappeas. ing appetite

Bhasma pisacha ... A spirit of evil

Bhava ... House. The sign is called Rasi. Eleventh house.

Bhuja Arc. Also called Koti ...

Bhumi ... East ; North-east

684 Prasna Marga

Bhuta ... Elements called earth, water, fire, wind and ether. Some- time it means a spirit Bhutamarana bali ... Sacrifice to Mars and Venus in order to destroy evil spirits Bhutanatha ... Siva Bhuta Rakshasa A demon ... Bhutattava ... Earthy signs-Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn Brahma Rakshasa A fierce demon ... Budha ... Mercury, rules wind, bile, phlegm and skin

C

Chamundi A form of the Goddess Durga Chandra ... Moon. Rules blood, wind and phlegm Chandrakriya ... Arc traversed by the Moon in a star converted into minutes and multiplied by 60, and then divide it by 800 and add one to the quotient (see Appendix) Chakora A song-bird like the partridge Chakra Zodiacal diagram. The fixed one is posited on the earth around the astrologer. The movable one is in the sky. The former refers to the directions. The latter is

An Index of Technical Terms 685

the basis for fixing the Ascendant Chakra homa ... A sacrificial offering to Mercury Chara Movable or cardinal signs Charaphala ... Position of a planet as per its mean motion converted iato an arc Chatushpada Rasi ... Leo, Aries, Taurus, the second half of Sagittarius and the first part of Capri- corn Chaya ... Shadow; measuring time on the basis of the shadow caused by the Sun; South Chatra Rasi ... The sign obtained from the Vidhi Rasi. Count the number of signs from Arudha to the ascendant and then count this number from the Vidhi Rasi to get Chatra Rasi Chitra Kuta A stone ... Chittottha ... Seventh house ; mental diseases

D Dagdha Yoga ... An evil moment. See note on page 44 Dakshinayana ... From the time the Sun enters Cancer and leaves Sagit tarius

686 Prasna Marga

Dantiskandha Offering an elephant's tooth Darbha Sacred grass called Kusa Darvi Medicine ; powder of conch Dasa Number of years ruled by a planet. Its sub-periods are called Antardasa or Bhukti. Deha ... Multiply the Moon's longi- tude by eight and then add the longitude of Mandi Devagraha Divine or benefic spirit ... Dhanus Sagittarius Dharmadeva These are given in Chapter 15 4-7 Dhatri Emblic myrobalan ... Dhatu Mineral. In odd Navamsas the Dhatu Navamsas are 1, 4, 7. In even signs, 3, 6, 9 Dhuma From three hours to six after ... suntise. It also means smcke. There are five temporory planets. These are Dhuma (sun's longitude plus 133°) ; Vyatipata (360° minus Dhuma); Parivesha (180° plus Vyatipata) ; Indrachapa (360° minus Parivesha) ; and Ketu (Indrachapa plus 17 degree) Dhumni ... Future Davaja ... Flag ; a point in Ashtamangala Digdahs ... Reddish colour at sunset

An Index of Technical Terms 687

Diglt ... The central digits are serpant, mouse, elephant, hare. Their corresponding unit digits are Garuda, cat, lion, and dog respect ively Dinagata Time of birth after query ... Dipta Three hours from sunrise ... Dirgha Longevity of a hundred years ... Dravya Substance. Jeeva dravya ... refers to organisms. Mula- dravya refers to immovable property. Dhatudravya signifies minerals Drekkana Ten degrees of a sign. The ... three parts are ruled by the lord of the sign, and by the lords of 5 and 9 from that sign (see Appendix VII) Dridha Karma acquired in the past ... Drigr anita ... Astronomical calculation that agrees with observations Drishta Perceived cause of a result ... Drishtibadha Suffering caused by the evll ... eye of a person. Dundubha ... A large drum Durdevafa An evil spirit ... Durgà Supreme Goddess ... Durmuhurta ... It has a duration of 48 minutes and varies from day to day. It is inauspicious. See notes on pages 46 to 48

688 Prasna Marga

Dustba Planets in a malefic sign ... Dutalakshana Omens Dvadasamsa A twell part of sign ... Ivisvabhava Common ... signs-Gemini Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces

E

Ekargala ... An unfavourable time Ela ... Cardamom

G

Gaja Elephant ... Gana Metrical foot ... Ganapati ... Deity who destroys obstacles Gandanta ... The conjunction of Pisces- Aries, Cancer-Leo and Scorpio-Sagittarius Gandharva A semi-divine being ; musician ... Ganita Astronomical calculations ... Ghantakarna Divine being Ghatika 24 minutes. It is also called ... Nadi or Nadika. Its sub- division is Vighaii or Vina- dika coveing 24 seconds Gochara Transit influences of planets Godha ... Alligator Gola Spherical astronomy Gridhramukha ... Last decanate of Leo and Aquarius and the second of Libra (see Appendix VII) Griha ... House; fourth house

An Index of Technical Terms 689

Grishma Summer ... Guhyaka ... A class of demigods following Kubera Gulika ... A sensitive point; on pages 160 to 162 the calculation is given Gulma Abdominal ulcer ... Guru ... Jupiter. Rules flesh and the 10th house H Hantukama ... An evil spirit eager to kill Havana Fire sacrifice ... Hinga Asafoetida ... Homa Sacrificial offering ... Hora Half of a sign; science of ... astronomy and astrology J Jala Water ; West ... Jala graha The Moon and Venus ... Janma Naksbatra ... The constellation througb which the Moon was pass- ing at the time of birth Janma Rasi The sign occupied by the ... Moon at the time of birth Jala Pisacha A water demon ... Japa Chanting of the sacred mantra ... Jataka ... Horoscope Jihva dosba evil arising from words ... Jiva ... In odd signs its navamsas are 3, 6, 9 and in even signs 1, 4, 7 44

690 Prasna Marga

Jrimbhika Yawning ...

Jwala ... Flame; East

K

Kala ... Refers to the sign and the condition; Pirst house Kala Chakra ... A system of periods of the planets and sigos Kala Hora ... The order in which the lords of the horas follow is Saturn Jupiter, Mars, the Sun, Venus, Mercury and the Moon The first hora is that of the lord of the week-day Kala Paisachi An evil spirit ... Kala Sphuta ... The calculation is given on pages 167-8 Kali ... Fierce Goddess Kali Yuga Began in 3102 B.C. ... Kana A kind of corn called premna ... spinosa or longifolia Kapha Phlegm Kanya Virgo Kapalahoma Sacrifice to propitiate the ... Moon Karka, Karkataka Cancer ... Karaka Significator ... Karana ... One of the five elements in the Panchanga or Hindu ca'endar

An Index of Technical Terms 691

Karma ... The result of actions done in the past. See notes on 1.34, 38 and pages 280, 413-4, 48€-6 Kasmala graha Polluted planet, a base spirit ... Kaumara Planet io its own house ... Kavacha Amulet ... Kemadruma When there is no planet on ... either side of the' Moon Kendra Houses 1, 4, 7, 10 Ketu South node of the Moen Khadga Ravana Bali Sacrificial offering to Mars Khara Donkey Kinnara A demigod Kirata Huntsman ... Kolamukba The first decanate of Cancer and Capricorn and the last one of Scorpio (see Appendix) Kona Houses 1, 5, 9 Krodhagni ... The mantra beginning with 'Jatavedase' Krodbani Angry Krittikabali Sacrifice to Mars ... Kshaya ... Consumption Kshana 48 minutes Kshata Sixth house ... Kshema ... Fourth star from the birth star Kshudiam Incantated article Kshurdamantra ... Incantation for an evil spirit

692 Prasna Marga

Kshetra Pinda Offering ... Kukshi Sasta ... A Deity Kuja Mars. Rules bile and muscle ... Kumbha Aquarius ... Kushmandabali ... Sacrificial offering of a pump- kin to Durga Kushtha Kana A plant ... Kunda Number 81 ... Kutumba ... Second house

L Lsgna Ascendant ... Lakshana Signification ...

M Madhuka Liquorice root ... Madhya Longevity of seventy years ... Magadbi Long pepper ... Mahagraha Eighteen great spirits descri- ... bed in Chap 16, Verse 63 Majja Muscle ... Makara Capricorn ... Malina ... Soiling of body Mana Tenth house ... Mandi ... A sensi ive point. See pages 160-161 Manduka Gamana ... In Kalachakra system there is a leap from Virgo to Cancer Manjishtha Madder. ... Mani A Gandhar va ... Manu Mantra ... Maraka ... A planet that inflicts death

An Index of Technical Terms 693

Marana Eighth house ... Masa Month ... Matri ... Seven divine mothers Mesha Aries ... Meena Pisces ... Mithuna Gemini ...

Mitra ... Eighth star from the birth star, friend

Mohini Beguiliog ... Mriduvarga B:nefic vargas of Mercury ... Mrita Planet in debilitation ... Mrittika ... Sc uth west Mrityu ... A sensitive point obtained by multiplying Mandi's longi- tude by seven and adding the Sun's.

Mrityu bhaga Fatal degrees. These are 1, ... 9, 22, 23, 25, 2. 4, 23, 18, 20, 24 and 10 from Aries onwards. The Moon's are 26, 12, 13, 25. 24, 11, 26, 14, 13, 25, 5, 12.

Mrityu Chakra ... Horary time in Vighatis to be divided by 15 to get Mrityu Rasi. This plus the longitude of the Sun or the Moon in Navamsa gives the position of the Sun or the Moon in Mrityu Chakra See pages 172-174 (5.28).

694 Prasna Marga

Mrityu Nakshatra This is calculated from the Trisphuta Nakshatra. See page 195. Mrityu Prada Death-inflicting planet. Mrityu sphuta Multiply the longitude of ... Mandi by 9 and divide it by 30. L'kewise calculate Deha and Prana Sphutas as given on page 249. Mrityu Yoga ... It arises from Sunday to Saturday coinciding with certain stars. See page 44 Muburta Auspicious moment ... Mula Animals. In odd and even ... signs the Navamsas are 2 5 and 8 Mulatrikona ... A special area of a sign in which the planet has great strength Murcha Swooning

N Nadika Same as Ghati or 24 minutes. ... It has 60 Vinadikas or Vighatikas. Io northren India it is called Pala. Nadi These are three Nadis em- ployed in Pranayama or breath control. These are Ida, Pingala and Sushumna. Naga ... Snake

An Index of Technical Terms 695

Naga Kanya Snake woman Naidhana Seventh star from the birth ... star Nakshatra ... Constellation. These are 27 and sometimes with Abhijit these are 28. These are important in calculating the periods of planets. Each Nakshatra covers 13° 20' Nakshatrapada ... One-fourth of a constellation. It co ers 3° 20' Narasimha ... The fierce form of Vishnu Navamsa- ... Ninth part of a sign

Neecha ... Debilitstion

Needra Sleepiness ...

Nigala Second decanate of Scorpio ... (See Appendix) Nija Roga Natural ailment. The ac- .... quired one is agantuka

Nimitta ... Cause, condition

Niryana Rasi .... Multiply the longitude of a planet by the number of the expired Navamsa. The result is the sign of death given by the planet Nisheja graha ... A weak spirit

Nocturnal signs ... These are the first four from Aries, and 9, 10 and 12. The others are diurnal signs

696 Prasna Marga

P

Pakshi Drekkana ... Second decaoate of Libra and the first of Leo and Aqua- rius (See Appendix) Panchaksbari A five-lettered mantra of Siva ... Panchami Devata Deity of death ... Papakartari ... A sign or a planet having malefics on either side Parahita ... A method of astronomical calculations Parivesha See under Dhuma ... Parva Lunar days 1, 8, 14, 15, 16, ... 23, 29, 30 Pasa drekkana ... Second decanate of Cancer, the first of Scerpio and the last of Pisces (See Appen- dix)

Paramamitra Ninth star from the birth one ... Patl Husband, seventh bouse ... Patni Wife, seventh house ... Phala ... Result. It is bated on the causal law

Phaladata Planet that gives results ... Pindakrlya Offerings made to the dead ... ancestors

Pisacha Demon ... Pitta Bile ... Pradosha ... Twilight Pramana ... That which demonstrates the truth of a given statement

An Index of Technical Terms 697

Pramana Golika ... For a day birth add 180° to the longitude of Gulika of the previous night. For a day birth the position of Gulika on that day is the longitude Pranakalantara principle considered in ... Drigganita Prana Sphuta ... Multiplý the longitude of the ascendant by 5 and add that of Mandi Prasna Query ... Prasnakriya ... Horary astrology. The act of putting questions and getting replies Prasnakshara ... The letters in the query Pratikarabali ... Sacrifice to avenge or to pacify a curse. It is offered to Jupiter and Venus Pratyak The fifth star from the birth one Prayascitta Expiatory rite Preta The spirit of the recently drad one Prishthodaya The signs Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Sagittarius and Capricorn Prishthatogamsna ... In Kalachakra system the movement is sometimes backwards from Leo to Gemini

698 Prasna Marga

Punya Vedic rite of purification ... Purvasapa Curse given earlier ... Putana ... The demon who wanted to kill Sri Krishna by suckling him Patra ... Fifth house

R

Rabu North node of the Moon Rahu-Sun-Moon chart This is explained on pages 169 and 170 with example Raja A planet in exaltation Raja Prasna ... Enquiry about the ruler Raks hasagraha Demonaic splrit ... Rakta Blood ruled by the Moon ... Rakta Chamundi The blood red Deity Randhra Eighth house Ranimusta Rantukama A plant A spirit desiring sex Rasa Flavour. There are six called ... sweet, acid, salt, sour, bitter and hot Rasi ... Sign of the zodiac. The Sattvik signs are Cancer, Leo, Sagittarius and Pisces. The Rajasik are Taurus, Gemini, Virgo and Libra. The Tamasik are the rest Ravi The Sun. Rules bile ... Riksba sandhi ... Junction of two sigas or two constellations

An Index of Technical Terms 699

Ripha Twelfth house Ritu Season There are six sea- sons Rodani Wailing ... Rudragraha A spirit following Rudra ...

S

Sadbana Practice ...

Sadydrishta Death within one year ...

Sahottha Third house ...

Sama ... One year Samayajala Samridđhi ... Three signs from the Moon are of rising ebb. The next three fall or flow. Then three ebb or rise The last three fall or flow

Sampal ... The second star from the birth star

Sandhi ... Junctional points. These are (a) the first and the last 24 minutes of a lunar day and star. (b) the first and the last 2 minutes of a sign; and (c) the firat and the last 24 seconds of a Navamsa

Sani ... Saturn. Rules tendons and wind

Sanjoa ... Technical terms

700 Prasna Marga

Sankalpa The desire with which one undertakes to perform a rite Sankhabhisheka ... Sprinkling ritual water on the Deity through a conch Sankhapushpa A plant ... Sankranti Solar ingress into a sign ... Sannipata ... Combined disorder of the three humours of the body causing dangerous fever Saptavarga ... Rasi, Hora, Drekkana, Sap- tamsa, Navamsa, Dvada- samsa and Trimsamsa Sarasvati Goddess of learning ... Sarat Autumn ... Sariba Kusa or sacred grass ...

Sarirottha Bodily ailment ...

Sarpabali Sacrificial offering to propi- ... tiate the serpent Deity Sarpa Drekkana ... The first decanate of Scorpio and the last ones of Cancer and Pisces Sarpa Siras The second half of Vyatipata ... Yoga

Sarvashtakavarga A method whereby the strength or weakness of a planet or a house can be found out

Sasta Ayyappa who is both Siva and Vishnu

An Index of Technical Terms 701

Sayana Tropical Zodiac. Deduct Ayanamsa to get the side- real zodiac Saumyagraha Mild or benefic spirit Shadvarga The same as Saptavarga minus Saptavarga Siddhartha White mustard Siddhi Obtaining mastery of a mantra Sighra Varga Asvini, Hasta, Pushyami Simha Leo; Lion Simbavalokana A leap in Kalachakra system from Pisces to Scorpio Sindhuttha - A plant Sirshodaya The signs are Gemini, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagit- tarius and Aquarius Sisira Winter Sivabhuta Spirit attending on Siva Skandha A branch of astronomy Sopha Swelling, tumour Sosbani Drying up Sphuta - Correct longitude. Add the longitudes of the Ascen- dant, the Moon and Mandi to get Trisphuta. Add this to the Sun's to get Chatusphuta. Add this to Rahu to have Panchasphuta Sraddha Offering to the dead ancestors on the day of their death

702 Prasna Marga

Sprishtanga The sign corresponding to the organ touched by the querist Srishti Asvini is creative (srishti) constellation. Bharani is the sustaining one (sthiti). Krittika is the destructive one (sambara). The series are in this order Sthira Fixed sigos Stunga The numeral 74 Subha Ninth house Subhakartari - Planet or house baving bene- fics on both sides Subrabmanya A Deity, son of Siva Sudarsana The mantra for Vishou Sudhapayas Milk in the form of nectar Sukla -- Seminal fluid

Sukra ... Venus. Rules seminal fluid, wind and phlegm Sukshma Trisphuta This is obtained by adding Prana, Deha and Mrityu sphutas Sulacakra Allocation of constellations with reference to the con- stellation through which the Sun is passing at birth or query Sulapaitachi A demon that causes suffering ... and pain

An Index of Technical Terms 703

Sutra Thread ; aphorism. Ordinary ... (anya) Sutra is determined by the ascendant. The ownership (Adhipati) Sutra is to be noted by the lords of the ascendant at birth and at the time of query Amsaka Sutra is arrived at from the Navamsa Lagna. Nakshatra Sutra is calculated by the birth' star of the questioner and the asterism at the time of query. Mahasutra is worked out by Arudha and the tenth from it. These are respec- tively earthy, watery, fiery, aerial and ethereal Sva Second house Svasana Gasping Svastha ... Doing well. A question about health. Svayambhu Brahma the creator. ... Svayathu Dropsy ... Tantra ... Texts dealing with the opera- tion of the mantras. Tanu ... Body ; first house. Tapani Making weak due to te npe- rarture. Tittaka Khadira tree. ...

704 Prasna Marga

Tilahoma Sacrificial offering of sesamum, Triyanmukha The slgo to which the Sun ... will be moving. Tithi ... A lunar day. Rikta Tithis are 4, 8, 9, 14 of lunar month. These are Chidra tithis. Trijanma naksbatra ... Birth star and the tenth and nineteenth from it

Triphal ... Three myrobalans called Hirda, Behada, and amla- 'kathi. Trivrid Plant possessing valuable ... purgative properties. Tula Libra. Tumba Gourd. ... Tandgamsa Exaltation degree in sign or in ravamsa. Tvak ... Skio.

U

Ubhayodaya The sign Pisces. Uccatara Invocation. Udayalagna The sign rising at sunrisc. ...

Ulkapata Fall of meters. Upachaya ... House 3, 6, 11. Urdhvamukha ... The sign left by the Sun. Urdhvodaya ... These are Gemini, Leo, Virgo, Scorpio and Aquarius.

An Index of Technical Terms 705

Ushna ... Some period in each constela- tion. See under 14 2. Uttarayana The Suns's ingress into Capri- ... corn till he leaves Gemini.

V

Vacha Aromatic root ... Vakya ... Traditional method of calcula- tion Vanadevata Svlph ... Vakra Grain ... Vargottama Planet occupies the same signs ... in Rasi and Navamsa Varsha Year ; Rainy season ... Vara Marrow of flesh ruled by ... Jupiter Vasanta Spring ... Vasara Week ... Vashasa Tendon, nerve; ruled by ... Saturn Vata Wind ... Vayutattva Signs Gemini, Libra, and ... Aquarius Vedana Pain ... Vepathu Shivering ... Vidhi Rasi If the Sun is in Taurus, Cancer ... Gemini or Leo, the sign is Aries. If he is in Scorpio, Capricorn or Aquanus, it is Gemini. If he is in the other signs, it is Taurus. 45

706 Prasna Marga

Vidy adhara A demigod ... Vıkrama Third house ... Vilanga ... A plant Vimsottari 120 year system ... Vimana Sundara A deity ... Vipat Third star from the birth star ... Vira Number 24 ... Visha drekkans Fir.t decanates of Arles, ... Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Sagit- tarius, Capricorn and so on Visha Nadi Starting from Asvini, the ghatis are 50, 24, 30, 4, 14, 11, 30, 20, 32, 30, 20, 18, 22, 20, 14, 14, 10, 14, 20, 24, 20, 10, 10, 18, 16, 24, 30 Vishama Vyadhi Ir curable disease ... Virabhadra Follower of Shiva .... Vismriti Forgetfulness ... Visvavyaghata Pepper (Santh) ... Vriddha Planet in enemy's house ... Vrisch ka Scorpio ... Vrisch kali A plant Vrishabba Taurus ... Vyatipata See notes on page 43 ... Vyaya ... Twelfth house

Y

Yaksha A demigod ... Yama ... 3.75 ghatis Yamakantaka A sensitive harmful point ... Yashti Liquorice ...

An Index of Technical Terms 707

Yauvana Planet in its Moolatrikona ... Yoga See Chapter 2 and Verse 18 Yogarishta ... Harmful period for longevlty Yogasphuta ... The sign for Sun and Moon and Saturn Yogayus Longevity given by the planets ... Yogini A spiritual being ... Yoni ... In Ashtamangala this refers to flag, smoke, lion, dog, ox, donkey, elephant and crow

10-

ERRATA

Page Verse Read

9 13 last line धर्म, अर्म्य 10 जन्मना, कर्मणा 12 17 omit व in मव 16 21 17 Footnote सज्जस्तु, स्पष्ट ... 21 Last verse भृतो 23 34 अन्य 28 45 यदुकं 30 1 कमाखिलं 31 2 र्कि जन 39 15 श्रुती ... 49 26 निम्नो. 50 28 कार्य 52 31 Last 6 Syallables do not fit into the metre 56 38 भू ... हुत ... 57 39 तोत: 62 49 65 संशय: 67 वक्ष्नो ... 70 71 संप्राप्रोति 84 104 नदून्यर्ण ... तद्रण 85 107 वर्गशाक्षर

710 Prasna Marga

Page Verse Read

87 Last lines The verse is in Sardula Vritta and the first is in मगण 88 110 कारोडथ 127 दडतर ... ऊर्ध्वेक्षण रहितो 99 134 सङ्गहे .. योगस्तु 101 143 पश्यति 102 146 पुष्पं 105 155 क्षते 108 3 पव्रेचप्रछाथं 112 12 तत्पञ्चम 114 13 दूतः 116 17 यच्यहडान 18 तृणा न्योतानि 122 31 द्वरान्निरेतिद्वारा 126 5 प्रश्नेषु 130 9 मृत्युब्जयी 137 24 रोम 141 32 सादीश 146 51 जेत्ररु 147 54 ष्टश स्त्य का? 160 16 आने 168 24 नुलोम 182 18 आयुर्वीरय 191 31 रसृ पृयक्षा 193 37 कृद्रचि रतिसारं वाडन 198 46 प्रहुरिन्दुं

Errata 711

Page Verse Read

205 62 वाञनसो: 206 65 सिस्फुटो ... also in V. 66 66 तदीशा 210 3 भूतानि 4 चन्द्राहय: 6 धूमो 211 8 कशिरो 242 27 त्यज्योतपि 249 38 दष्ट्यादि 250 39 क्षीणे 255 50 Add a after the eighth syllable of the first half 256 53 सूर्यस्य 258 61 क्षीण 265 12 घिषणा 266 13 सत्स्वपि 267 14 रायु 268 19 दशौ 270 24 विचिन्त्याः 277 36 सौष्य ... विषयेषु गुण दोष विमिश्रितेषु 277 37 देहो 38 लग्नाधि 278 39 केन्द्र गतेषु 40 रोग 279 42 भ्यधत्त 43 युक्षिन्त्यते

712 Prasna Marga

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280 46 मास्ति 281 49 समायोगा 282 53 282 Read at the end दशायुश्च दशाक्रमात् 54 वदाम्यथ 283 286 55 मध्य दीर्घामितायुष 62 विलग्नेन्द्वो: 64 लग्नपते: 288 68 सन्धि 70 291 केन्द्रायुमृस्यु 75 निर्णाते, निर्णात 293 4 तट्टी, मृत्युंद्दा 305 21 राहा 317 34 मान्द्यादय: 320 41 मृतिर्मान्द्यश 324 48 समाह 333 3 वस्मसा 335 10 गुरुणा वेपयुः पादे दक्षि ... 339 14 गुल्माङ्गा ... 343 17 भास्कर: 345 18 युतः 19 कथितानीति 349 30 प्र चतुष्पादां 355 39 निर्णाते 369 25 यच्छूतं 27 ன 371 31 मूर्तो 378 50 रन्भ्र

Errata 713

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380 55 व्यस्ता 381 56 कूष्माण्ड 391 78 पापदृष्ट 397 1 श्रन्द्रो 400 5 समुद्रम: or समुद्दवः 401 7 ल्पता 402 9 प्राप्त 405 13 व्याधि, रुजा 409 20 शिष्टेषु 411 21 परन्चताम् 22 इंद 413 25 शमनाय 415 30 417 34 श्रित्तं

417 35 प्रितिश्रयम् 418 38 सोन्मादके 422 4 हयेत 423 7 पुण्यम् 424 10 सर्वप्रणा

427 18 भोजयितृ 431 23 ह्रस्व 432 25 जन्मतो

433 27 द्विद्वादश 28 तद्वदाकष 434 29 तद्धिप 438 31 धुमणिरथ 440 36 सुतं च दत्ते

714 Prasna Marga

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446 46 मूत्या 454 50 59 464 रोगवि-हो one syllable is missing त्यूह

कांक्षायां 80 468 86 पापान्वया 474 92 सेनानी 93 475 94 बुद्धिवृद्धे: श्वार्थ 487 108 समीरितम् स्याथ 490 112 शेव्क्षिप्रम् 491 116 पापा: 495 1 गुरुभिर्ब्रा 498 5 वशात्कुज: 499 6 त्यंशेन्यत् ह्यखित्र 500 7 मन्दश्शास्तादिकं सर्पगण: 501 10 2nd line begins दुक्तनां 507 21 धातुग्रहे 508 22 स्यापि 509 23 वघैः 24 धातु 510 26 धत्ते 511 27 प्राच्यतेत्र तु 512 29 तत्तु 30 विधि

Errata 715

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514 33 सर्प प्रीति 515 34 कृत्वा ... देयान्यु 516 36 तु राहो यंदि 517 39 शापो स्त्ये महः प्रभु 518 39 इनोहनाथ 519 42 बाध यन्त्येते चरन्तीति 521 44 मसतां 45 मान्देभ्रांन्नादि न्वयाशे: 524 49 विह्ननं चामया .. 526 53 विवशां 527 54 कारणानीह 528 56 शैलाग्र 529 60 कश्यन्ते 62 हेद्र 532 70 द्विह जिह्रा ? 537 87 विपक्क 538 92 द्विज 540 95 वाङूमेद्र द्विट ग्रही 541 100 क्षुतत ... तवोः 101 सु मन्तिणा 542 104 हालका: 545 112 बाधक 546 113 ग्राह्या 114 Second line first six letters are not correct

716 Prashna Marga

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115 दृष्टि 548 119 549 समश्रेद् ग्रह पीडन 121 तद् दष्टो 553 132 राहो 554 135 बाधया 556 138 न्योन्यता वा 139 वक्न्य: 557 142 रिपो: 558 143 र्वर्ण 145 स्याद्वरणो 559 148 स्यादथ 560 149 द्वाननुपवीती 150 उच्चावनीच 151 ह्, नृपति 561 155 प्रयोक्तृ, ग्रन्थान्तरं 562 157 161 षष्टशो, ताम्रं 564 शत्रुज्ञेय: 565 162 566 163 चिहग दिक्, राशि दिकू तासां, गतता बाधारप नाथ, कृतमामिचार: 167 क्षुद्धामि ... 569 172 चेद्र विर्वृक्षे, जीव श्रेद् 570 174 व्याघ्र 176 चतुरं ध्येश 571 178 मध्यादि, तस्य 572 179 तेनोच्या 180 मध्यगांश 573 183 चैवमा ...

Errata 717

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187 अथात्रो

575 189 रत्नागतः, राहयम् 190 युतेथ 191 व्याधेबलिं

576 192 मिमा:

578 196 स्वतवेन तदुप ..

579 199 मदिता

581 203 संक्षेपेण 206 रगृहस्थ: 583 211 शोक्रो थ

585 215 नरीणां

586 217 पिशाचाश्रात

587 Last but one line अथ व्याधे: 588 221 शान्तिश्चिन्त्या दोषरयुक्ते 589 224 न्मतिमान् 590 227 कीर्तिस्तथा 591 229 शान्त्यैः 230 होमादीनां 593 2 दुच्यते 595 6 आरूढे

600 15 भागनिहिंत 601 16 स्यादथ 17 मभ्यागमो 602 18 सहितः, लाञ्छन 608 29 रूपम् स्तदिन्दूद्दवेयम्