Practical Astrology

Astrology, which is highly valued by all classes of society in the Orient, is a highly complex and intricate subject calling for a sound knowledge of mathematics and astronomy. By linking the movement of the stars and planets with the fortunes of mankind the ancient seers and sages developed a science by which they were able to predict the future of mankind both individually and as a whole. This science and its knowledge were linked very closely with the sciences of medicine and philosophy. In fact knowledge of all three was required by the Vedic practitioners of medicine to become a competent doctor. The knowledge of this science has till today remained confined to the priestly classes, especially in India. Astrology and astrologers were in great demand in the courts of kings and statesmen to take crucial decisions, or at least to help in doing so. They were also called upon to make predictions in matters of the birth of progeny and many other matters relating to the royal families. Much store was placed in the decisions and predictions made by these learned men-so much so that some of them achieved positions of great power and influence in the courts. No court in the orient or the occident was complete without the state-appointed astrologer. The belief in their powers carried on down to the lower strata of society where they were equally in demand to predict the fortunes of individuals. Even today in India there are not many families whose children have not had their Janma Kundalis (Birth Charts) prepared by the astrologers. These charts come into use at the time of marriage or in taking decisions about the future of one's offspring. This is still very much in practice today and can be seen at the time of marriage when both the groom and bridegroom have their charts compared before the finalization of their marriage.