Jaimini Astrology

Jaimini Sutras (Upadesa Sutras) is an ancient Sanskrit text on the predictive aspects of Vedic Astrology, attributed to the sage Jaimini, the founder of the Purva Mimamsa branch of Vedic philosophy, a disciple of Vyasa, and grandson of Parashara. The text comprises 936 sutras or aphorisms arranged in four chapters. Though it has several distinct features, the Jaimini System appears to be an offshoot of the Parashari System. It is not in conflict with the Parashari System and gives due importance to Rahu and Ketu, the two Lunar Nodes.

Chapters and Subjects

1. Chapter 1 covers:
   • Karakamsa
   • Arudha
   • Upapada
   • Navamsa
2. Chapter 2 covers:
   • Longevity
   • Diseases
   • Profession
   • Progeny
   • Spouse
3. Chapter 3 covers:
   • Longevity
   • Nature and cause of death
4. Chapter 4 covers:
   • Account of pre-natal epoch

Distinct Features of the Jaimini System

• The Jaimini System is distinctly different from the Parashari System, particularly regarding:
  • Rasi aspects
  • Karakas determination
  • Badhaka bhavas
  • Dashas
• Rasi aspects: Aspect is assigned to the Rasis (signs) which are synonymous with Bhavas (houses).
• Karakas: Karakas are determined based on the longitudes gained by planets in specific signs.
• Dashas: Dashas are assigned to signs rather than planets.
• Badhakas: The method for determining Badhakas is more complicated.
• Pada-based predictions are also different from the Parashari method.

Interpretations and Commentary

• Hart De Fouw in his book Light on Life suggests that a commentator may have developed Jaimini Jyotish from Parashara’s system, attributing Jaimini’s name to it. He also speculates that only a few chapters from Jaimini Jyotish align with the Parashara System.
• Bangalore Venkata Raman, in his book Studies in Jaimini Astrology, explains the complexity of the Jaimini System, particularly the multiple dashas that can confuse readers. He acknowledges Jaimini’s development of an almost new system that didn’t gain popularity due to the variety of interpretations possible with sutras. The Charadasha is favored by Jaimini for determining longevity and predicting significant life events. Raman also points out that many of the sutras, particularly those related to Raja yogas, have not been fully tested.

Key Sutra Reference

• In Sutra 37 of Adhyaya II Pada IV, Jaimini states सिद्धमन्यत्, acknowledging that the principles in his work are truths already explained in other works.

Challenges in Understanding

• The Bhavas, Rasis, and Planets require patience, diligence, and practice to comprehend. The sutras are short and easy to memorize, but not easily grasped. Jaimini’s system differs from general astrology in that:
  • Lagnas and dashas are founded on Rasis and Navamsas.
  • Dashas involve calculations both forwards and backwards for odd and even signs.
  • The duration of dashas differs from common astrological principles.
  • Nakshatras are not emphasized, and multiple planets can merge into one Karaka.