Nakshatras: Origin, Legends, Naming and Their Profound Role in Vedic Astrology

The Origin and Legends of Nakshatras: A Vedic Perspective

The Genesis of Nakshatras: Vedic and Astronomical Foundations

The concept of Nakshatras holds a timeless place in Indian astrology and culture. References to Nakshatras are found in ancient Vedic texts such as the Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Taittiriya Samhita and Shatapatha Brahmana. The word “Nakshatra” means “that which never decays,” signifying an eternal group of stars. The primary purpose of Nakshatras was to measure time, determine auspicious and inauspicious moments and unravel the mysteries of the cosmos. According to Vedic tradition, Nakshatras were created by Brahma. When Brahma was fashioning the universe, he divided the sky into 27 equal segments to measure time, each segment known as a Nakshatra. The Moon, in its monthly journey around the Earth, passes through all 27 Nakshatras. Each Nakshatra spans 13 degrees and 20 minutes and each has its own presiding deity and ruling planet.

The Mythological Story: Daksha, the Moon and the 27 Daughters

One of the most celebrated legends about Nakshatras centers on Daksha Prajapati, the Moon and his 27 daughters:

• Daksha Prajapati, a principal progenitor of creation, had 27 daughters. He married all of them to the Moon (Soma).
• Daksha wished that the Moon would love and spend equal time with each wife. However, the Moon favored Rohini above all and spent most of his time with her.
• The other 26 wives (the Nakshatras) grew unhappy and complained to their father, Daksha.
• Daksha cursed the Moon, causing his brilliance to gradually wane. Distressed, the Moon sought refuge with Lord Shiva. Pleased by his prayers, Shiva partially lifted the curse, resulting in the waxing and waning phases of the Moon.
• This is why the Moon spends one day each month in every Nakshatra and his phases increase and decrease as he moves through them.

This legend beautifully illustrates the deep connection between the Nakshatras and the Moon, the phases of the Moon and the cycles of time.

Nakshatras in Vedic Literature

• In the Rigveda, Nakshatras are described as “Akshaya Lok”-realms that never decay.
• The Yajurveda refers to Nakshatras as the celestial nymphs of the Moon, forms of divinity and ornaments of the sky.
• The Taittiriya Brahmana calls Nakshatras the abodes of the gods.
• According to the Vajasaneyi Samhita, all time originates from the cosmic being (Brahman) and is sacred, making Nakshatras an essential part of the Vedic calendar.

Naming and Symbols of Nakshatras

Each Nakshatra is named after its principal star, symbol or an associated legend. For example:

• Ashwini: Horse’s head, symbolizing swiftness and beginnings
• Rohini: Red color or ox, symbolizing gentleness and attraction
• Mrigashira: Deer’s head, representing search and curiosity
• Pushya: Cow’s udder, symbolizing nourishment and prosperity

Unique Features and Life Influence of Nakshatras

• Every Nakshatra has a presiding deity, which influences the nature, mindset and life purpose of those born under it.
• The Vedic system of planetary periods (Dasha), auspicious timings (Muhurta), marriages, rituals and all major life decisions are determined based on Nakshatras.
• Nakshatras are calculated according to the Moon’s movement, which highlights the originality and precision of Indian astrology.

The Subtle Wisdom of the Nakshatras

Nakshatras were created by Brahma to divide the cosmos into segments of time and direction. Their legend, revolving around Daksha, the Moon and the 27 daughters, is a profound symbol of the Moon’s phases, the cycle of time and the ups and downs of life. Vedic literature regards Nakshatras as significant not only in astronomy but also in spirituality, culture and every aspect of life. The story of the Nakshatras teaches us that every star, every moment and every relationship in the universe holds a deeper meaning and energy, guiding and enriching our lives with direction and purpose.