Introduction
Ashtamangala Prasna is a Hindu astrology practice that utilizes eight auspicious objects. This practice is highly popular in the Indian states of Kerala and Tulu Nadu, where it has been extensively studied and written about. The author, Narayanan Nambutiri, wrote an authoritative book on its practice, “Prasna Marga”, in 1649 CE.
What is Prasna?
Prasna is one of the six branches of Hindu astrology. It deals with horary astrology, where an astrologer attempts to answer a question by constructing a horoscope for the exact time at which the question was received and understood. The other branches include jataka (natal astrology), muhurta (electional astrology), nimitta (interpretation of omens), gola (study of astronomy), and ganita (study of mathematics).
The Ashtamangala Prasna Rituals
The process begins with extending a formal invitation to an astrologer to perform the Ashtamangala Prasna. The astrologer fixes a date for the Prasna based on principles of electional astrology. Two astrologers are required for conducting the Prasna.
Here is an outline of the rituals:
- Puja of the Zodiac : A priest performs a puja of the zodiac.
- Drawing the Coin : The main astrologer asks a girl or boy to keep a gold coin randomly in one of the twelve houses drawn on a wooden plank placed before the astrologer.
- Question-Answer Session : Based on the house in which the coin was placed and certain numbers computed during the process, the question-answer session begins.
- Remedial Measures : After full diagnosis, remedial measures are finalized on the last day of Prasna.
The Ashtamangala Number
The practice uses numerology to determine a three-digit number known as the Ashtamangala number. The instrument for deriving this number is cowry shells, which are specially selected and sanctified.
Here’s how it works:
- Dividing the Cowries : The astrologer randomly divides 108 cowries into three piles.
- Counting Off Multiples of Eight : The astrologer counts off multiples of eight from each pile and keeps the remainder.
- Retaining Eight Cowries : If the remainder is zero, eight cowries are retained.
The resulting three-digit number is the Ashtamangala number, which is supposed to indicate the past, present, and future.
Odd Numbers: Good, Even Numbers: Bad
In this practice, odd numbers are considered good, while even numbers are considered bad.
Ashtamangala Prasna in Hindu Places of Worship
When applied to the life of Hindu places of worship, Ashtamangala Prasna is known as Ashtamangala Deva Prasna. The intention is to probe the mind of the presiding deity and decide on activities that would enhance the spiritual ambiance of the temples.
This practice involves asking questions such as:
- Are pujas and festivals being conducted strictly as per accepted norms?
- Are there any lapses in the rituals?
- What developmental activities are likely to be pleasing to the deity?
Overall, Ashtamangala Prasna is a complex practice that utilizes multiple branches of Hindu astrology to answer questions and provide guidance.