Bharatiya Jyotish Ka Itihas [Hindi] By Gorakh Prasad

Author: Gorakh Prasad

Publisher: Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan, Lucknow

Binding: Paperback

Details: 

**"Bharatiya Jyotish Ka Itihas"** by **Gorakh Prasad** is a comprehensive work that traces the history of **Indian Astrology** (Bharatiya Jyotish), offering a deep dive into its evolution, philosophical foundations, and significant developments over the centuries. This book is an essential read for those who wish to understand the rich heritage and traditions of astrology in India.

### Key Themes and Concepts in the Book:

#### 1. **Introduction to Indian Astrology**:
   - **The Roots of Indian Astrology**: Gorakh Prasad begins by discussing the **origins of Vedic astrology** (Jyotish Vidya), which is one of the **six Vedangas** (limbs of the Veda). The book emphasizes that astrology in India has its roots in the ancient **Vedic texts** and was developed as a way to understand the cosmic influence on human lives.
   - **The Role of Astrology in Ancient India**: The author explores how astrology was traditionally used not just for personal predictions but also for **societal, religious, and agricultural purposes**. Astrology was deeply integrated into rituals, ceremonies, and even the timing of **yajnas** (sacrificial rites) and other sacred duties.

#### 2. **The Development of Vedic Astrology**:
   - **Vedic Texts and Jyotish**: The book discusses the key **Vedic texts** that laid the foundation for **Bharatiya Jyotish**, including the **Rig Veda**, **Yajur Veda**, **Sam Veda**, and **Atharva Veda**. These texts contain early references to the movement of the planets, constellations, and their influence on human affairs.
   - **The Role of the Sun, Moon, and Planets**: The book explains how early Vedic astrologers used the movement of celestial bodies, especially the **Sun**, **Moon**, and **planets** (Navagraha), to create systems that could predict seasonal changes, harvests, and other cyclical events.

#### 3. **The Jyotish Shastra and Its Evolution**:
   - **The Formation of Jyotish Shastra**: The author highlights the development of **Jyotish Shastra** as a systematic body of knowledge. The famous Vedic texts such as the **Brahmanas** and **Upanishads** gradually led to the creation of more specific astrological literature.
   - **The Contributions of Sage Parasara**: Sage **Parasara**, one of the most significant figures in **Vedic astrology**, is given special attention. His work, particularly the **Parasara Hora Shastra**, is one of the cornerstones of Vedic astrology. The book elaborates on his teachings, which cover the rules for interpreting horoscopes, the significance of the 12 zodiac signs, planets, houses, and Dasha systems.
   - **The Role of Sage Jaimini**: Another important figure discussed is **Sage Jaimini**, who introduced the **Jaimini Sutras**, a separate school of astrology that focuses on different methods of predictions, particularly through the use of **karakas (indicators)** and **Jaimini's Dasha**.

#### 4. **The Impact of Greek and Islamic Influences**:
   - **Greek Influence on Indian Astrology**: The book discusses the **Greek influence** on Indian astrology, particularly during the period of the **Hellenistic** influence on India through **Alexander the Great**'s conquest of parts of India in the 4th century BCE. This influence brought with it certain new techniques in **horoscopic astrology**, which were absorbed into Indian astrology, especially in terms of the mathematical calculations for planetary positions and the use of the **12-house system**.
   - **Islamic Contributions**: The author also explores the influence of **Islamic astronomy and astrology** during the medieval period, particularly through figures such as **Ulugh Beg** and **Fakhr al-Din**. Indian astrologers adopted some of these ideas, leading to the development of new schools of astrology that integrated the **sidereal zodiac** and more complex techniques.

#### 5. **Classical Texts of Indian Astrology**:
   - **Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra**: As one of the seminal texts in **Vedic astrology**, the **Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra** is thoroughly discussed in the book, outlining key concepts such as the **Lagna** (ascendant), the influence of **planetary periods** (Dasha system), **transits**, and the importance of **aspects** (drishti) between planets.
   - **The Contribution of Other Texts**: The book also covers important texts such as:
     - **Jaimini Sutras**: Focuses on alternative methods of interpretation, especially regarding **karakas** and the **Chara Dasha**.
     - **Brihat Jataka**: A classical text by **Varahamihira**, covering the methods of interpretation and predictive astrology.
     - **Phaladeepika**: Written by **Madhava**, this text is another key source on the interpretation of horoscopes, focusing on the **planetary strengths** and their effects on various aspects of life.
   
#### 6. **Astrological Systems and Techniques**:
   - **The Zodiac System**: The book explores the **12 zodiac signs** (Rashis) and their influence on human life. It explains how **Vedic astrology** uses a **sidereal zodiac** as opposed to the tropical zodiac used in Western astrology, which results in a slight difference in the planetary positions.
   - **Dasha System**: A significant portion of the book is devoted to the **Vimshottari Dasha system**, which divides the lifespan of an individual into planetary periods ruled by different planets. The author describes how this system is used to predict key life events and how it can help determine the timing of various life events such as marriage, career, and health.
   - **Nakshatras**: The author emphasizes the importance of **Nakshatras** (lunar mansions) in Vedic astrology, explaining how the 27 Nakshatras influence a person’s characteristics, destiny, and timing of significant events.

#### 7. **Astrological Influence in Culture and Society**:
   - **Astrology in Indian Society**: The book explores the central role of astrology in various aspects of Indian society, from **marriage matching** to **auspicious timings (Muhurta)** for important events, such as housewarming ceremonies, business ventures, and starting new projects.
   - **Astrology and Religion**: Astrology is intertwined with religious practices in India, where it is used to choose auspicious dates for festivals, rituals, and temple activities. The author highlights how **Jyotish** has always been seen as a divine science, closely tied to spiritual practices.

#### 8. **Modern Developments and Contemporary Influence**:
   - **Modern Influence of Indian Astrology**: The book looks at how **Indian astrology** has evolved in the modern era, especially after the introduction of **Western astrology** in India in the 19th and 20th centuries. It compares the differences between the two systems, particularly the usage of **horoscopes**, **house systems**, and predictive techniques.
   - **Technological Advancements**: The author discusses the role of **computers** and **software** in making astrological calculations more accessible and accurate. It covers how modern technology has made the study of **Vedic astrology** easier and has led to the global spread of Indian astrological knowledge.

#### 9. **The Legacy of Indian Astrology**:
   - **Astrology in the 21st Century**: The book concludes by reflecting on the future of **Indian astrology** and its **global reach**, especially with the increasing interest in **spiritual sciences** and **self-development**. The legacy of ancient texts and traditional methods continues to be a guide for millions worldwide, offering both predictive insights and spiritual guidance.

### Target Audience:
- **Aspiring Astrologers**: Those interested in understanding the historical and philosophical foundations of Indian astrology, and who wish to deepen their knowledge of Vedic techniques.
- **Students of Vedic Literature**: Readers who are studying the ancient texts of India, including the Vedas and Upanishads, and want to understand the astrological references within them.
- **History Enthusiasts**: Individuals interested in the history of **Indian sciences**, particularly the **evolution of astrology** in ancient India and its influence on other cultures.
- **General Readers**: Anyone curious about the role of astrology in Indian society and culture, and its application in modern life.

### Conclusion:
**"Bharatiya Jyotish Ka Itihas"** by **Gorakh Prasad** is an insightful and scholarly exploration of the history of **Indian astrology**. The book provides readers with a thorough understanding of how astrology evolved in India from its ancient roots in the Vedic texts to its modern applications. By tracing the development of key concepts, figures, and texts, the author presents astrology as an essential element of India’s **spiritual and cultural heritage**. Whether you are a practitioner, student, or simply someone curious about the history of astrology, this book offers invaluable insights into the rich tradition of **Bharatiya Jyotish**. 

Language: Hindi