JANMASHTAMI 2023
The Hindu holiday of Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is regarded as one of the most adored gods in Hinduism. The eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Bhadrapada of the Hindu lunar calendar, which normally corresponds to August or September on the Gregorian calendar, marks the beginning of this festival, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami. Because it is believed that the positions of celestial bodies at the time of an event or a person's birth can have an impact on that person's life and destiny, astrology is an important part of many Hindu celebrations, including Janmashtami. The astrological importance of Janmashtami, its link to Lord Krishna, and how astrology is intertwined with the commemoration of this auspicious day will all be covered in detail in this in-depth article.
Mythological Background
Janmashtami commemorates the birth of Lord Krishna, who is revered as the eighth incarnation (Avatar) of Lord Vishnu, one of the most important deities in Hinduism. The story of Lord Krishna's birth is documented in many Hindu scriptures, with the Bhagavata Purana—a holy book that chronicles Lord Krishna's life and teachings—containing the most well-known tale. According to Hindu legend, Lord Krishna was born in the Dwapara Yuga, a period marked by a fall in morality and justice, in the city of Mathura. Devaki and Vasudeva, who were held captive by Devaki's brother, the despotic King Kamsa, gave birth to him. It was foretold that Kamsa's demise would be brought on by Devaki and Vasudeva's eighth child. In order to stop the fulfilment of this prophecy, Kamsa imprisoned them.
Significance of Lord Krishna
In Hinduism, the teachings and life of Lord Krishna are of utmost importance. He is frequently represented as a loving deity, a playful child of God, a brave warrior, and a clever philosopher. His life has been full of remarkable events, like as his involvement in the Mahabharata, where he spoke the Bhagavad Gita, a spiritual discourse that offers profound insight and direction on duty, righteousness, and the road to spiritual freedom. In addition, Krishna is renowned for his mystic adventures with the Gopis (milkmaids) and his mesmerizing flute playing, which is said to mesmerize listeners. His teachings place a strong emphasis on the value of bhakti, or devotion, and karma, or selfless deeds, as ways to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
Janmashtami and the Natal Chart of Lord Krishna
The Bhagavata Purana has extensive information about the birth of Lord Krishna. It is stated that Krishna was born in the month of Bhadrapada on the eighth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha). He was born under unusual circumstances, with a large amount of supernatural intervention. In the middle of the night, in a jail cell, Krishna was born. The prison guards fell asleep, the doors mysteriously opened, and his father Vasudeva transported him across the roaring Yamuna River to Nanda and Yashoda's house in Gokul. These mystical occurrences are thought to be a manifestation of Lord Krishna's divinity and his purpose of defending and guiding mankind.
Examining the birth chart of Lord Krishna
Dharmikshree adds a hypothetical natal chart for Lord Krishna can be made using the precise date of his birth, as recorded in the Bhagavata Purana, and aligned with the positions of the celestial bodies on that day. This procedure, called as "Prashna Jyotish" in Vedic astrology, entails casting a chart for a particular issue or circumstance.
The following information could appear in Lord Krishna's hypothetical natal chart:
Birth Date: The eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada.
Birth Time:
Midnight (as Krishna was born at this time). Birthplace: Mathura, India. Planetary positions are thought to indicate a person's divine character and the reason for their incarnation, hence Lord Krishna's natal chart would have had important planetary positions. To comprehend Lord Krishna's life purpose, traits, and impact on humanity, Vedic astrologers may examine his birth chart.
Planetary Significators in Lord Krishna's Life: According to Dharmikshree ji , different planets are associated with various aspects of life and personality traits. Analyzing the planetary significators in Lord Krishna's natal chart can provide insights into his divine attributes and earthly role.
Sun (Surya):
The Sun represents the soul and divine power. In Lord Krishna's chart, the Sun's position could symbolize his divine radiance and leadership qualities.
Moon (Chandra):
The Moon represents the mind, emotions, and intuition. In Lord Krishna's chart, the Moon's position might indicate his deep emotional connection with devotees and his ability to empathize with human suffering.
Mercury (Budha):
Mercury is associated with communication and intelligence. Lord Krishna's Mercury placement could signify his eloquence and wisdom, as demonstrated in the Bhagavad Gita. Venus (Shukra): Venus represents love, beauty, and creativity. In Lord Krishna's chart, Venus might reflect his captivating and charming personality.
Mars (Mangal):
Mars signifies courage and determination. Lord Krishna's Mars placement could represent his fearlessness in the face of adversity, as seen in his battles with demons.
Jupiter (Guru):
Jupiter is the planet of knowledge and spirituality. In Lord Krishna's chart, Jupiter's position could indicate his role as a spiritual guide and teacher.
Saturn (Shani):
Saturn represents discipline and responsibility. Lord Krishna's Saturn placement might reflect his sense of duty in upholding righteousness and order in the world.
Rahu and Ketu:
These are the lunar nodes and are associated with karmic influences. Lord Krishna's chart could reveal his karmic mission and the lessons he came to teach humanity. Vedic astrology analysis of Lord Krishna's hypothetical birth chart offers a symbolic comprehension of his divine nature and the reason for his incarnation.
Janmashtami is observed with a number of ceremonies and practises, many of which have astrological significance.
Fasting:
On Janmashtami, devotees fast, depriving themselves of food and liquids up until midnight, when it is thought that Lord Krishna was born. With astrology's emphasis on self-control and separation from worldly pleasures, fasting is a method of self-discipline and spiritual cleansing. Janmotsava:
The birth of Lord Krishna, which is thought to have taken place at midnight, is commemorated with great fervour. Devotees assemble to sing bhajans (devotional songs) and offer prayers, and temples are decorated with flowers and lights.
Breaking the Pot: "Dahi Handi" is a well-known custom that is practised in various areas. Young guys create human pyramids to smash a ceramic pot that is suspended at a height and contains curd or butter. Guruji adds about this custom that it is a nod to Lord Krishna's youthful playfulness and fondness for butter.
Astrological Symbolism in Janmashtami Rituals
Fasting and its Astrological Significance:
Fasting on Janmashtami is an act of self-purification and devotion. From an astrological perspective, fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the body and mind, allowing individuals to connect with their inner selves and the divine. It is believed that fasting on this auspicious day can help one receive the blessings of Lord Krishna and mitigate the influence of negative planetary energies. The timing of the fast, from sunrise to midnight, aligns with Lord Krishna's birth chart, making it a spiritually significant practice. Devotees break their fast at midnight to symbolize the moment of Lord Krishna's appearance in the world. Krishna Janmotsava: The midnight celebrations on Janmashtami are a key element of the festival's astrological symbolism. Lord Krishna is said to have chosen to be born at midnight, signifying the transition from darkness to light, ignorance to knowledge, and worldly attachments to spiritual liberation. From an astrological perspective, midnight represents a time of profound stillness and cosmic alignment. Devotees gather to meditate, sing devotional songs, and offer prayers to Lord Krishna during this spiritually charged moment, seeking his divine grace and blessings.
Dahi Handi - Breaking the Pot: The Dahi Handi tradition, where young men form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd or butter, has astrological symbolism as well. Lord Krishna's love for butter is well-known, and this playful act reflects his mischievous nature as a child. From an astrological perspective, the act of breaking the pot represents overcoming obstacles and challenges in life, just as Lord Krishna overcame various trials and tribulations during his earthly incarnation. It symbolizes the triumph of devotion, unity, and determination in the face of adversity.
The significance of choosing Rohini Nakshatra for Lord Krishna's birth:
Rohini Nakshatra has a tremendous impact. One of the 27 nakshatras, Rohini is linked to attributes like beauty, sustenance, and growth. Since the Moon is its ruler, it has a special bearing on issues with emotions and interpersonal connection It is said that the cosmic forces were divinely aligned for Lord Krishna to be born in Rohini Nakshatra, enhancing his capacity for love and nurture. Lord Krishna is said to have drawn and enchanted believers with his heavenly love and charm as a result of Rohini's influence. This Nakshatra has immense significance because it is when Lord Krishna first made his appearance on this planet.
This year, on September 6 and 7, 2023, Krishna Janmashtami will be observed over two days.
Date and Time for Janmashtami:
Beginning on September 6, 2023 at 3:37 PM is
Ashtami Tithi:
End of Ashtami Tithi - September 7, 2023 - 04:14 PM
