In Vedic Jyotish (astrology), Rashi refers to the zodiac signs that divide the celestial sphere into 12 equal parts, each spanning 30 degrees. These Rashis are the foundation of astrological analysis, representing the Moon’s position at the time of birth and influencing various aspects of life.
Definition of Rashi
- A Rashi is a segment of the zodiac belt, each associated with specific characteristics, ruling planets, and elements.
- The entire zodiac spans 360 degrees, and each Rashi occupies 30 degrees of this circle.
Degree Derivation Sutra
The degrees of each Rashi are derived by dividing the zodiac into 12 equal parts:
- Mesha (Aries): 0° to 30°
- Vrishabha (Taurus): 30° to 60°
- Mithuna (Gemini): 60° to 90°
- Karka (Cancer): 90° to 120°
- Simha (Leo): 120° to 150°
- Kanya (Virgo): 150° to 180°
- Tula (Libra): 180° to 210°
- Vrischika (Scorpio): 210° to 240°
- Dhanu (Sagittarius): 240° to 270°
- Makara (Capricorn): 270° to 300°
- Kumbha (Aquarius): 300° to 330°
- Meena (Pisces): 330° to 360°
Sutra for Calculation
The calculation of degrees within a Rashi is based on the sidereal zodiac system in Vedic astrology:
- Zodiac Division: The zodiac is divided into 12 Rashis, each spanning 30 degrees.
- Planetary Position: The position of a planet is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds within a specific Rashi.
- Nakshatra Connection: Each Rashi is further divided into 2.25 Nakshatras, with each Nakshatra spanning 13°20′.
For example:
- If a planet is at 15° in Mesha (Aries), it is in the middle of the Rashi.
- If it is at 29° in Mesha, it is near the end of the Rashi.
Here is a detailed table summarizing the Rashi (Zodiac Signs), their Chinha (Symbols), Degrees, Lordship Planets, and Chinha (Signs):
| Rashi (Zodiac Sign) | Chinha (Symbol) | Degrees | Lordship Planet | Chinha (Sign) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mesha (Aries) | Ram | 0° to 30° | Mars (Mangal) | Energetic and Bold |
| Vrishabha (Taurus) | Bull | 30° to 60° | Venus (Shukra) | Stable and Practical |
| Mithuna (Gemini) | Twins | 60° to 90° | Mercury (Budha) | Curious and Adaptable |
| Karka (Cancer) | Crab | 90° to 120° | Moon (Chandra) | Emotional and Caring |
| Simha (Leo) | Lion | 120° to 150° | Sun (Surya) | Confident and Regal |
| Kanya (Virgo) | Maiden | 150° to 180° | Mercury (Budha) | Analytical and Precise |
| Tula (Libra) | Scales | 180° to 210° | Venus (Shukra) | Diplomatic and Balanced |
| Vrischika (Scorpio) | Scorpion | 210° to 240° | Mars (Mangal) | Intense and Secretive |
| Dhanu (Sagittarius) | Archer | 240° to 270° | Jupiter (Guru) | Optimistic and Philosophical |
| Makara (Capricorn) | Goat | 270° to 300° | Saturn (Shani) | Disciplined and Ambitious |
| Kumbha (Aquarius) | Water Bearer | 300° to 330° | Saturn (Shani) | Innovative and Humanitarian |
| Meena (Pisces) | Fish | 330° to 360° | Jupiter (Guru) | Compassionate and Dreamy |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the Rashis and their attributes.
