Vedic Astrology · Glossary
Nakshatra
नक्षत्र
Lunar mansions — the 27 equal divisions of the zodiac (13°20′ each) used in Vedic astrology.
Nakshatra refers to the 27 lunar mansions that divide the ecliptic (the zodiac path) into 27 equal segments of 13 degrees and 20 minutes each. The Moon passes through all 27 nakshatras in approximately 27.3 days (one sidereal month). Each nakshatra has a ruling planet (nakshatra lord), a ruling deity, a symbol, and specific characteristics. The Janma Nakshatra (birth nakshatra) is the nakshatra the Moon occupied at birth and is fundamental to Vedic astrology — it determines the first dasha period, the auspicious syllable for naming, the gotra matching for marriage, and numerous other life predictions.
Examples
- ◆Ashwini (ruled by Ketu, deity Ashwini Kumaras) — the first nakshatra (0°–13°20′ Aries)
- ◆Rohini (ruled by Moon, deity Brahma) — the Moon's own nakshatra and most auspicious for most activities
- ◆Pushya (ruled by Saturn, deity Brihaspati) — considered the most auspicious nakshatra for beginnings
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nakshatra in astrology?
Nakshatra are the 27 lunar mansions that divide the zodiac into 27 equal portions of 13°20′ each. They are used extensively in Vedic astrology for determining one's dasha (planetary period), naming conventions, compatibility matching, muhurta selection, and daily auspicious activity planning through the Panchanga.
How many nakshatras are there?
There are 27 nakshatras in the standard Vedic system (28 in some traditions, adding Abhijit). The 27 are: Ashwini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigashira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashlesha, Magha, Purva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni, Hasta, Chitra, Swati, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Purva Ashadha, Uttara Ashadha, Shravana, Dhanishtha, Shatabhisha, Purva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada, Revati.
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