Maharishi Parashara: The Father of Vedic Astrology
Life, Lineage, and the Secrets of BPHS
Maharishi Parashara is not just a sage; he is the institution upon which the entire edifice of Vedic Astrology (Jyotish) stands. As the author of the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra (BPHS), he codified the laws of time and karma that astrologers use to this day.
Quick Facts: The Lineage of Parashara
| Grandfather | Sage Vasishtha (One of the Saptarishis) |
| Father | Sage Shakti |
| Son | Veda Vyasa (Compiler of Mahabharata & Vedas) |
| Major Work | Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra (The Bible of Astrology) |
| Key Disciple | Maitreya (to whom BPHS was narrated) |
Background and Early Life
Maharishi Parashara was born in the lineage of Sage Vasishtha. His life was not without tragedy; he lost his father, Sage Shakti, at a young age due to a conflict with King Kalmashapada. However, under the guidance of his grandfather Vasishtha, he learned to transcend anger through Tantra Sadhna and Meditation.
He performed intense penance in the forests, mastering the knowledge of the "Triloka" (three worlds). It was during these travels that he met Satyavati, and their union led to the birth of Veda Vyasa, who would go on to divide the Vedas.
The Magnum Opus: Contributions to Vedic Astrology
While many sages existed, Parashara is unique because he structured astrology. Before him, knowledge was scattered. He compiled it into the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra.
1. The Concept of Yogas (Planetary Unions)
Parashara was the first to clearly define how planets combine to create wealth or poverty. He introduced the concept of Raajyog (Royal Combinations), explaining that when Kendra (Quadrant) and Trikona (Trine) lords combine, they elevate a person to kingly status.
2. Longevity and Maarak Planets
He gave a detailed method to calculate the lifespan of a human being. He identified the Maarak Grahas (Killer Planets)—the 2nd and 7th house lords—which determine death and suffering.
3. The Divisional Charts (Vargas)
Parashara emphasized that looking at the birth chart (Rashi Chakra) is not enough. He introduced 16 Divisional Charts (Shodashvarga), such as:
- Navamsa (D-9): For Marriage and internal strength.
- Dasamsa (D-10): For Career and Profession.
- Saptamsa (D-7): For Progeny and lineage.
The Guru-Disciple Legacy
The transmission of knowledge from Parashara to his disciple Maitreya is the setting of his great book. This dialogue format teaches us the importance of the Guru-Shishya Parampara.
Just as Parashara taught Maitreya, he also understood the subtle anatomy of the body. His teachings on the "Kaal Purusha" relate deeply to the Nadi and Nervous System, showing how planets affect our physical nerves and chakras.
Criticism and Modern Relevance
Some critics argue that Parashara's texts are deterministic (fatalistic). However, Parashara himself provided the solution: Remedies (Upay). He stated that while the planetary map is fixed, the intensity of Karma can be modified through:
- Mantra Japa: Reciting planetary sounds.
- Gemstones: Balancing color energy.
- daana (Charity): Neutralizing bad karma.
- Worship: Such as the worship of the Shivling (Shiva Energy) to conquer death (Mrityunjaya).
Decode Your Parashari Chart
Are you experiencing the effects of a difficult Dasha or a Maarak planet? Understand your life map through the lens of Maharishi Parashara.
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