Continuation…
Dr. Shanker Adawal
Introduction
Part
2
Modern practitioners and
students of astrology generally toy an uneasy relationship with remedial
astrology. Although many individuals think of astrology as being a science,
none of us are really oblivious to the empirical nature of the craft of
astrology. Most of us worldly beings must, of necessity, live in a reality that
is deeply grounded in the physical/material where cause is followed by effect
and where symbols of rational thinking and scientific progress surround us and
form much of our perceived daily reality. It is, therefore, difficult not to
feel uneasy when we move away `afar’ from a very earthy and rational way of
looking at things that are a part of our `human experience’. When the links
between the cause and effect regarding anything or any phenomenon seem tenuous
and weak, we understandably become dubious and anxious. This has nothing to do with what is indeed true in
the universe or what works, but just the different natures of the `perceived’
reality that we live in and the other much larger one which is home to the
astrological phenomena and spiritual reality.
Astrology – if we take a
step away from the usual beaten path, falls into a domain that many skeptics
would consider as being one infused with superstitious `magical’ thinking. Most
of these people are grossly misinformed, if not totally ignorant, and
convincing them by using their rules of understanding becomes even more
difficult because truth be told, we astrologers ourselves do not fully know the
detailed modus operandi of astrology. We take for granted many primary
assumptions or axioms. Some examples would be: why does Jupiter signify as a
karaka for children? Why is Aries ruled by Mars?? How do different orientations
of the zodiac work – simultaneously??? How do planets affect us or how do they
indicate certain effects?? When does fate reign supreme and when does free-will
take the reins? Despite the lack of concrete and rational explanations, we
continue to practice and believe in astrology because we and those who came
before us have empirically observed that it works! This in itself is not
something that we should feel tiny about! Many of the modern pharmaceutical
preparations that we use, started out as folk remedies, were used for centuries
because someone serendipitously happened to try those out, and the blessed
weeds worked! The path from `superstition’ to science may to the open mind,
would seem to extend from the willow bark to the wonder drug aspirin! Such may
also be true for astrology, in an analogous manner.
It is a general belief
that open-minded astrologers as a daring breed of pioneers willingly exploring
uncharted waters! But, many of us modern astrologers draw the line when it
comes to the use of astro-remedies. Remedies such as gemstones, which are
believed to resonate with or against certain planetary vibrations or qualities,
one must admit, assume a lot and do require a strong modicum of belief. One
asks: What are these planetary vibrations? Why can we not measure these with
our marvelous scopes and gauges? Are these energies akin to light, magnetism,
sound, or do they represent a subtle form of energy that lies tantalizingly
just beyond our boundaries of physical perception? On somewhat similar
principles rests the basis for using natural essences (flower essences), herbs,
which are utilized in rectifying ill effects caused by or relating to planetary
afflictions. The long line-up extends at least upto the horizons of our
perception and conceptualization.
Vedic astrology, despite
its very strong ties with the Karmic hypothesis and its implied `fatalistic’
misconception, has a very well developed and detailed remedial system.
Ironically, this also underscores the fact that Vedic astrology supports the
view that destiny can be changed by our willful actions and certain procedures,
and hence really advocates the supremacy of individual choice and free-will!
The remedial medicine bag of the Jyotishi (Vedic astrologer) includes tools
such as penance, fasting, special spiritually-endowed sound vibrations
(Mantras), glyphs and devices (Yantras) and religious ceremonies (Pooja) with
charity (the concept of tithe may sound more familiar to some readers of this
article!). Some of these measures undoubtedly sound fantastic, perhaps even
voodooishly magical to the `modern’ mind, and even to some who have otherwise
an unshakable faith in the veracity of astrology! In matters of `belief’ such
as these, there is always a degree of personal decision involved. We alone can
ultimately decide how far we would be willing to let our circle of acceptance
stretch, regardless of the perceived or actual truth in the phenomenon under
scrutiny! It must be noted that even within science, many scientific phenomena
may sound magical and fantastic – despite detailed and satisfactory
explanations – to those who are not specialists in the specific area. Medicine
is probably privileged to have a lion’s share of these over the years that it
has ruled the roost of healing crafts.
Continue…
Dr. Shanker Adawal
Profile: www.connectingmind.com
Research work and articles on Bhrigu Nadi astrology: www.shankerstudy.com
www.shankarsastro.com
Published articles on Articlesbase.com
http://www.articlesbase.com/authors/shanker-adawal/149926
or search keyword "shanker adawal" in google search for published articles
Join my Facebook Group for free Astro Queries: www.facebook.com/adawal
Published articles on Newspapers: http://tinyurl.com/2wyxtfk
Research work and articles on Bhrigu Nadi astrology: www.shankerstudy.com
www.shankarsastro.com
Published articles on Articlesbase.com
http://www.articlesbase.com/authors/shanker-adawal/149926
or search keyword "shanker adawal" in google search for published articles
Join my Facebook Group for free Astro Queries: www.facebook.com/adawal
Published articles on Newspapers: http://tinyurl.com/2wyxtfk
