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Astrology is the study that uses the positions of celestial bodies to predict human affairs. There are nine types of astrology, out of which Vedic and Western astrology remain the most popular. In India, most astrologers suggest natural gemstones based on Vedic astrology. Are there any differences between the two? What are the characteristics of each astrology type? Let's know more details in this blog:
Vedic astrology, or Jyotish, has been mentioned in the history of Indian culture for centuries. It has been mentioned in notable events like the Rig Veda, Vedanga Jyotish, and Atharvaveda. The concepts of nine planets, the twelve zodiac signs, and twenty-seven nakshatras are well described by notable works of renowned scholars and rishis. Other Vedic sciences, such as Ayurveda and Yoga, are also covered in astrology. Also Read: Gemstones in Vedas - 9 Powerful Vedic Ratans
Western astrology has its origins in the ancient Mediterranean. It has its roots in the Hellenistic period. This was further introduced to Greece by a Babylonian priest, Berossus. Like Vedic astrology, which is considered a blend of Vedic science, Western astrology also incorporates ancient Greek medicine and philosophy.
Read Further: Importance of Gemstones in Astrology
Western astrology takes into account the tropical zodiacs. These zodiacs are based on the Earth’s position and relation to the Sun. While the concept of birthstones is widespread in Western, Indian astrology, on the contrary, is based on zodiac signs referred to as Rashis. In both the astrologies, there are 12 zodiacs. In Western society, the zodiacs reflect the personality and characteristics of the person born.
Vedic astrology signs or rashis rely on the actual positions of the planets and constellations in the Sky. Depending on this, gemstones are suggested to the person. For instance, Yellow sapphire stone is for the Guru or Jupiter planet. This natural gemstone harnesses the planet’s energy and bestows the wearer with benefits such as prosperity and success.
Also Read: Which Gemstone Should You Wear According to Vedic Astrology?
As stated earlier, Vedic astrology focuses more on the position of planets or grahas. Western astrology focuses on the Sun's position concerning the Earth. In Hindu astrology or Jyotish, there are nine grahas or planets.
Each of these influences an individual's birth chart, giving specific results. If the position of the grahas is unfavorable, it will give bad results, whereas when favorable, it positively impacts the person's life.
Vedic astrology vs Western reflects that the former is strongly predictive. Predictions are made based on the birth chart (an astrological map showing planetary positions made with time, place, and date of birth). Western astrology predictions are more on the personality or traits of a person. Read More: Birthstones by Zodiac
In Indian astrology, planets are referred to as Gods, and we believe that these directly influence human destiny. There are nine planets mentioned in this type of astrology, namely the Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandrama), Mars (Mangal), Mercury (Budh), Jupiter (Guru), Saturn (Shani), Venus (Shukra), and the two shadow planets Rahu and Ketu.
Western astrology vs. Vedic relates to the former, including planets like Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. Three elements in Hindu astrology are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, whereas in Western, there are four elements (Air, Water, Fire, and Earth).
Read More: As per Rashi Which Stone to Wear On Which Finger: A Complete Guide
In Vedic Jyotish, an individual's birth chart or natal chart is analyzed, whereas, in Western, the person's birth month is considered. For instance, the zodiac signs for people born in September are Virgo and Libra. In Indian Jyotish, the position of the planets in the birth chart is analyzed.
If Mercury or Budh graha is weak in your birth chart, this means the person lacks good communication skills and struggles with relationship issues and professional success. There are 12 houses in Hindu astrology, each governing various aspects of life.
For example, the 7th house in astrology is the house of a husband, wife, partnerships, and friends. If you are struggling in your relationship, the 7th house in your birth chart is analyzed, and the astrologer suggests remedies. Also Read: What is the 7th House in Astrology? Significance and Gemstones Associated
Vedic Jyotish focuses more on Karmic influences and believes planets like Shani give the same results. Western astrology, on the contrary, is based on personal traits. Gemstones are suggested as a remedy for both these astrologies. As per Western astrology, individuals born in September can wear a September birthstone, Sapphires.
The differentiation lies here, as one can wear any sapphire color. But as per Indian Jyotish, the entire birth chart is analyzed, and natural gems are suggested per dasha and Graha placement.
So, if your Shani is weak, you are advised to wear blue sapphire stone only.
Indian astrology highlights that wearing a gemstone as a ring benefits you the most, whereas, in the West, one can wear these in any form of jewelry, from ring to necklace and bracelet. Read Here: The Role of Saturn in Your Astrological Chart
There are specific rituals that one needs to follow in Jyotish. Each stone is worn on a particular day or time with a specific mantra and choice of metal. For instance, a red coral stone ring is worn on Tuesday morning. The mantra to be chanted is “Om Bhaum Bhaumaye Namah”. This red gemstone should be crafted in gold only. There are no such practices followed in Western astrology.
To conclude, choosing the type of astrology that influences your life events and brings solutions is a personal choice. Whatever the choice, it is important to buy natural gemstones to gain effective benefits.
Astrological Benefits of Blue Sapphire for Career and Health
January 8th, 2025
