In Vedic Astrology, the day begins when the Sun rises. (A day is counted from sunrise-to-sunrise.) Looking to this sunrise of 1st of January 2017, we go to the heart, the Heart of our Planet – Uluru, the mysterious monolith, which, we have been informed by the Angelic Realms, is now the Heart Chakra of our planet. So from this region sacred unto all humanity – as well as the indigenous peoples – we look to see what the planets and nakshatras offer for us 2017.
Sunrise at Uluru, 1.1.2017
In Vedic Astrology, the day begins when the Sun rises. (A day is counted from sunrise-to-sunrise.) On this sunrise of 1st of January 2017, we go to the heart, the Heart of our Planet – Uluru, the mysterious monolith, which, we have been informed by the Angelic Realms, is now the Heart Chakra of our planet. From this place, sacred unto all humanity – as well as the indigenous peoples – we look to see what 2017 may hold in store, in a general kind of way.
Moving on to the New Year, it is Durmukha nama samvatsara until April, meaning that general world-weariness and internal lassitude at the state of world affairs will prevail. Those who have burdens in society and culture will continue to bear them into the next year. As we have passed the December solstice, the light energy increases and we are in the bright half of the diurnal year; the paksha is Sukla Paksha, bright half fortnight, bringing a light, bright time to the month. The New Year Day is Sunday, ruled by day Lord who is the Sun, of pitta (internal heat) element and fire nature.
The day is Tritiya, ruled by Mars, which is also of pitta nature. The deity of Tritiya is Vishnu, sustainer, protecting. Maha Vishnu is all-pervasive, all-protective. The Moon’s nakshatra is Shravana, which is overlorded by Vishnu, the preserver, the organiser, the sustainer of the Universe and all life. Shravana is a chara nakshatra, moveable sign, suggestive of an easily changing nature, good benefic to one’s own karma and the karma of others. The yoga of the day is Harshana yoga – thrilling with joy. It would seem that there is much to be joyful about on this day of New Year.
The Fake News
Tritiya is of akash element – suggestive of the 5th Dimension. Four years have passed since the day of Ascension, 21 December 2012. Many more UFO have been sighted in our skies, and more information about the presence of the star people is found available on the Internet. Still, one must use discrimination and detachment with some of the information and so called news – for some of it is simple beat-up and expansion of old news released at the time of the Roswell incident in 1947. Speaking of old news being morphed into click-bait, we also have the growing awareness of fake news.
Is there more truth being delivered on our planet? The planet responsible for truth and accuracy in Media, Saturn, is in Scorpio, where Saturn is known to be be in conflict with the sign Lord Mars, and in fact, on this day, actually exchanges Lordship of Scorpio with Mars. As Scorpio is an inimical place for Saturn and hides its secrets in deep places, fake news will continue to be distributed in cryptic ways until both Saturn and Mercury move on from their present locations. Mercury is in a very poor situation come the new year, combust the Sun, retrograde and aspected by a functional malefic planet. The news will not be reliable nor trustworthy until Saturn transits to Sagittarius and beyond the gandanta location on January 26.
Moon in Shravana
Shravana nakshatra is over-sighted by Lord Vishnu, the preserver, sustainer, protector. Its symbol is three footprints and one arrow. This is indicative of two avatars, Vamana avatar whose celebration is at Vishu, and Sri Rama, of the Suryavamsha dynasty. ONE is pertinent to Sri Rama who had ONE Word, ONE Wife and ONE Arrow. Sri Rama was the perfect son, perfect husband, perfect brother, perfect friend and perfect protector. So we may conclude there is strong association of Sri Rama as incarnation of Maha Vishnu and Shravana nakshatra. While this nakshatra is rajasic in nature, it is of the nature of warriors to be rajasic also.
The other symbol of this nakshatra is three footprints. This recalls the odd request of the Vamana avatar to Emperor Bali of Kerala:
Emperor Bali was a great renunciant. He earned great name and fame for his noble quality of charity. He used to readily give away whatever was asked by others. The people of Kerala are most fortunate to have had Bali as their emperor.
Once, Bali was performing a yajna. Several scholars attended that yajna. Vamana also came to see that yajna. While He was approaching the yajna vedika, people started wondering, “This boy is too young! What has He got to do with the yajna? This is an occasion in which great Vedic scholars are expected to participate. How dare this young lad venture into this yajna!”
But the daughter of Emperor Bali did not take Him so lightly. She was attracted and charmed by His captivating beauty and scholarly look. Emperor Bali received the great Vamana and enquired, “Swami! What brought you here? What can I do for you?”
Vamana replied that he did not need anything like money or grains and that he would be content to have just three footstep length of land.
Bali was surprised at Vamana’s request, since even to bury a dead body six feet length of land is required. He therefore requested Vamana to ask for something more.
But Vamana replied, “If you give Me three step lengths of land, that would be enough.” Emperor Bali was taken aback and spontaneously agreed to His request saying, “Oh! Is that all? All right, take it.”
Vamana expanded in His stature and with one foot reached out over the entire skies. When he set his second step, the entire earth was transcended. He then enquired of Bali, “Where do I put my third step?”
Emperor Bali replied, “Swami! You asked for just three foot steps of land. But you covered the entire sky and earth with just two steps. All my domain is already exhausted. Please bless me by putting your third step on my head.” Vamana then placed his foot on Emperor Bali’s head and sent him down to the netherworld (patala).
The story of the three steps gives account of this incarnation of Maha Vishnu, the boy Vamana who was to crush the ego of Emperor Bali. In a similar fashion, the three footsteps of Shravana nakshatra is to find the steps that lead to the path above, that is, above the netherworld, above the ego, for Shravana is an upwards seeking nakshatra.
Mars in Shatabishak
Mars is currently in Aquarius where it has temporary lordship due mutual exchange with Saturn, who resides in the sign ruled by Mars. Aquarius is a water sign, of fixed nature and of the purusharthas, presents kama, desire. Aquarius is of vata (air) nature as it is normally ruled by a vata (air) planet (Saturn). It attends to the mind, the nervous system and communications in general. As Mars is of pita and fire nature, we may expect to see mind, the nervous system and communications driven by heat, fire, urgency, sudden explosive energy. Fire element will come into play as there is agni in jala, fire element in water.
Shatabishak is ruled by the god of rain, Varuna. He is one of the ancient gods and he taught his son Brghu about the nature of Brahman:
In the Taittiriya Upanishad, the Bhrgu Valli, which comes after the Brahmananda Valli, has the story of Bhrgu, son of Varuna. While teaching the son the Brahmam phenomenon, he says: “Son! Bhrgu! Brahmam cannot be seen through the eyes. Know that Brahmam is that which enables the eyes to see and the ears to hear. He can be known only through Tapas (extreme yearning in a cleansed mind and concentrated thought). No other means can help.” He added, “Dear Bhrgu! Know that everything in the Universe originates from Brahmam, exists in Brahmam and unfolds through Brahmam, and merges in Brahmam alone. Discover it yourself through Tapas,” The father gave him only these indications, before directing him to enter upon spiritual exercises which will ultimately reveal the Truth.
Since Brahman is the support of all, the basis of all, Shatabishak nakshatra represents the basis, foundation, structure of support for all, this is the shakti, the energy of above and below represented by this nakshatra. In order to gain the benefits of this nakshatra, which is of naasa nature (loss) one has to practice the tapas (penance, disciplines as did Bhrgu above) in order to experience this basis, support, pervasion of all that Brahmam (Divinity) is. Shatabishak is ruled by Rahu, sattvic-tamasic-sattvic in nature and symbolised by a circle, a flower. Mars in Shatabhishak represents primal force which needs firm management, strong direction, regular oversight; these as a discipline to be imbibed. Gold can take the shape of a ring, if it melted in a fire, it can be shaped into a crown. So the shakti, the primal force and pita-fire energy of Mars needs tempering, direction, guidance, tapas like penance in order to used in a proper manner where the nature, the basis of all might be revealed.
This tapas takes the direction of the nature of this nakshatra, Dharma. Dharmam moolam jagat, Dharma is the basis of the universe. Brahmam permeates the universe with flawless laws; Mars must be shaped, formed, curbed and posited in the direction of Dharma. So the year offers a very strong impetus and satisfaction to be gained by following dharma, the basis, the order, the flawless structure of the Universe. This order is also present within the human as righteousness, right action, right conduct, right living, right vision, right thinking. This dharma can be known by the practice of discrimination and detachment.
Ketu is in this nakshatra with Mars, and follows the same path as Mars; it is like having two planets with the Mars energy at once. Kuja vat Ketu, Ketu takes the nature of Mars. Ketu is also synonymous with the energies of Shatabishak, as Shatabishak natives need solitary time alone for reflection, review, recharge of their energy.
Saturn ~ Gandanta
Vedic astrology has signs following certain order; the four great goals of life (dharma, wealth, NEEDFUL desires and freedom from the cycle of rebirth) are repeated around the birth chart commencing from Aries with dharma leading. Signs are of a movable, fixed and mutable nature, also starting from Aries. The signs also signify the elements – Fire, Earth, Air and Water – commencing from Aries. The transition from a water to fire sign for Sun and Moon is called gandanta, and those souls born with one or another planet in such a position (from 27° Scorpio to 3° Sagittarius) are said to have this gandanta state, a life path confronted with a fundamental challenge which remains with that soul for the life of the body. It is a complicated and intricate knot, not unlike a Gordian knot.
In this instance, the gordian knot seems to be indicated by the perennial problem of budgeting by governments and the world economy.
Saturn will move into the gandanta area between Scorpio and Sagittarius. Gandanta means “knot”. This is the most unstable of the 3 fragile transition points during the year where a planet changes sign from water-element to fire element sign – in this case from watery Scorpio into fiery Sagittarius. The significations of Saturn will choke one or another area of activity in the forthcoming year. If we look to mundane astrology, Scorpio is the traditional 8th house, representing the treasury, large scale losses and threats to life and limb. Balancing of budgets and deficit budgeting by governments is indicated as the casting of the chart for the new year holds for the entire year. Government debts will increase, changes to the official interest rate will have little effect except on foreign exchange and governments are unlikely to spend to stimulate their economy. Nationalisation of banks is a reality, defaults on sovereign debts may occur and bailouts will be resoundingly challenged with loss of confidence in the IMF.
Saturn also represents agriculture, mines, crops and earth. The choke-hold indicated by this gandanta suggest that further fracking and oil pipelines planned for sacred ceremonial grounds and similar will face severe obstructions if not total termination. Bail outs of agriculture, crops and dairy farming may be needed on a large scale as the earth passes through a dark period of climate change where ocean temperatures continue to rise and affect rainfall on crops and sustainable earth. If these financial matters and matters pertaining to agricola and the climate change are not resolved to satisfaction, then keep in mind that Saturn will retrograde and return to Scorpio mid-year and go through this gandanta location twice again in order to allow matters to be revisited and resolved to satisfaction. The madding crowds of Venus (see below) may have something to do with any perceived dissatisfaction.
On a personal level, the gandanta position of Saturn will also have effect, depending on where your natal Saturn is located. Saturn rules life, and is the giver of longevity. Saturn controls destiny, provides energy for evolution of the mind-body-spirit complex and at times, generates fear, degradation and sickness. Such is Saturn’s direct task. Saturn is well known for deprivation, penury, labour and manual work. It is also Saturn’s task to pervert the mind on certain occasions (principally to grant experiences which provoke a turn toward spirituality) so you will see Saturn perverting the mind towards sin, impurity, servitude, debts, fetters, iron and chains, out-houses, captivity, hospitals and prisons.
The typical Indian asks, “What to do?” We recall that the planets may raise us up, they may pull us down; they have a task. Scorpio is a fixed sign, some things have to be faced. There are personal remedies available. One may propitiate the planets and avert and remove, atone and reduce, or obtain a reduction in hardship. Propitiation takes many forms: wearing a gemstone (blue sapphire is the main gem for Saturn); wearing things governed by Saturn (colours and clothing, adornments governed by Saturn); by reciting mantras such as Om sham shanescharaye namaha. One may also recite Shani Gayatri, Shani graha dhyana slokam, or 108 Names of Shani on Saturdays.
Venus in Aquarius
Aquarius is an interesting placement for Venus, as it is a yogakaraka, Lord of both Kendra and Trikona counted from Aquarius. It is a location where we may see integrity issues arise rather than any impropriety in relationships and clandestine activities. Although Rahu is co-lord of Aquarius (and aspects Venus in this situation), Venus acts as great friend to all other planets. Venus is conjunct Mars and Ketu and resident in a nakshatra ruled by Mars. This signifies a propensity for sudden activity and change in the public domain; Aquarius is the natural 11th house. It is the sign of fluid networking of ideas, large marketplace assemblies or workplace assemblies. It is the home of large political rallies. We can see possiblities for huge assemblies, high public visibility and networked social movements taking advantage of social networks (ruled by Saturn, ruler of Aquarius).
We keep in mind that Aquarius, as the natural 11th house, is a place of networking; however it is a network that has no center, therefore many prefer to create linkages rather than take a commanding role. We may end up seeing something similar to the Occupy movement which took the planet by storm in September of 2011, where the other 99% gave physical rendition of the perceived undue influence of corporations and the income inequality and wealth distribution in the U.S. between the wealthiest 1% and the rest of the population. This spread world-wide. The main issues raised by Occupy Wall Street were social and economic inequality, greed, corruption and the on government—particularly from the financial services sector. So Venus in Aquarius will be portending sudden social justice responses with huge rallies and assemblies of persons.
New Year’s Resolutions and Abhijit Nakshatra
Abhijit considered to be one of the most auspicious Nakshatras, but it’s not reckoned in all circumstances. Abhijit Nakshatra starts from the last pada (quarter) of Uttara Shadha Nakshatra and it extends up to 1/15th part of Shravana Nakshatra. It lies between 276 degrees 40 minutes to 280 degrees 53 minutes 20 seconds. The major portion of Abhijit Nakshatra lies in Capricorn.
Abhijit means “Victorious” or “the One who cannot be defeated”. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna said that He was Shiva among Rudras; He was Arjuna among Pandava and He was Abhijit among Nakshatras. All these statements underline the importance of Abhijit. Classical vedic texts mention Abhijit as one of the most auspicious time for doing any auspicious activity excepting travelling to southern direction. Its deity is Lord Brahma. Some Vedic texts also mention that 28 minutes before and 28 minutes after 12:00 clock (a.m. and p.m. both) is called as Abhijit Muhurtām, also.
Abhijit Nakshatra is in effect on New Year’s Eve from 13:57 – 22:00 hours. This is an event which could easily lend the cosmic strength and blessing to any resolutions we make – conjoined with a starting activity (in other words we actually do something as a commencement) during this time. As told earlier, the Kaurava clan were beside themselves with effort and activity to stop Krishna starting the Mahabharatha war during Abhijit nakshatra. Well, we all know the outcome, the Pandavas were victorious.
Our ego is like a ghost around the Atma (soul) and it is very strong; it creates this world, and all we experience. It creates vision, action, feeling and response to perceived reality. The ego is extremely hard to overcome and divine grace is necessary to improve ourselves and make better outcomes not only for ourselves but for all who live on Earth. For if we change ourselves, we are part of that chain reaction of integrity – trikarana suddhi (purity of throught, word and action) that makes this world a better place and a happy place to journey towards the goal of life. Therefore we may take advantage of this time, this monthly intercalary time of Abhijit nakshatra and choose solutions, make resolutions that enhance life.
At times of personal challenge, it is best to go out and do some selfless service. In order to obtain personal growth and transformation, it is best to do some community help, aid, right in that area of personal challenge, right where your ego does not like it. And that selfless service to others will bring grace, blessing and personal change to you and to those whom you would see their lives transform. Netra is shastra, all that is seen is divine scriptures. Our lives are sacred lives scribed in the book of life; our hearts are sacred hearts with the grace to send a silent prayer for transformation to others. Thus do you turn your challenges into personal strength and become embodiments of Divine Love.
Coda: Sunrise at Uluru
We bring this astrology to you from Uluru, the heart chakra of our planet and the abode of the oversighting spirit of the Indigenous Peoples of Australia – and our entire galaxy – Alcheringa. Alcheringa has let it be known that Uluru (along with other sacred places on Earth) exists in the higher dimensions (5th and 6th), and sacred places like Uluru should be visited, to receive the spiritual benefit, blessing, uplift. Alcheringa went on to say that if a sacred place could not be visited in the physical form, then one may travel in spirit. Valerie Barrow channelled Alcheringa on Ascension and visiting Sacred Places in December 2011. What follows is an excerpt from this channelled message:
Alcheringa: ”Indeed there is My Dear, I know that you have received messages about the ascended state of being … … and I would like to say that the ascended state of being already exists in Uluru and the surrounding areas. There are other places around the earth that are also in the uplifted frequency of Light and Love. When people visit these places, these sacred places, they experience the energy and it touches them…it touches their heart … it touches everybody cell, every part of their physical body and helps to lift.
Alcheringa: Everything has a consciousness … it may not be of a language that you would think … … but it has a consciousness. It is predestined for many things to grow … and to grow the same continuous way. And so it is for the earthling … but adjustments can be made at times to fit into certain situations … but sometimes the mind gets in the way and interferes with that growth … that ascended state.
So I would like to encourage everybody to visit sacred places if they can … and if they cannot physically actually go there … Then to sit quietly in a meditative state and gently roll their eyes towards the heavens and see themselves at a certain place that they have decided to go to in their mind.
For it is the consciousness of the soul that is taking them on the journey and it is equally as beneficial to the people to experience being there. It will be a sacred journey … it will be a blessing … and if they keep the brain away from that consciousness they will experience many things.
That will assist them in many ways. A knowing, but more than that a feeling will come upon them and then they will know. Without any explanation or words and this is what I mean when I say and I speak of consciousness in everything.
You may listen to this transmission from Alcheringa:
Low clouds at Uluru; December 2016; Alcheringa advises we may travel in spirit to meditate there and obtain spiritual advance.
