Keys to Forecasting and Prediction: Vedic Astrology's Major Planetary Periods

Keys to Forecasting and Prediction:
Vedic Astrology's Major Planetary Periods
© 2007 James Jarvis, M.A.

One of the most powerful and unique tools that Vedic Astrology offers for determining future events is the Mahadasa or major planetary periods system. In the Vedic view, the potential life-span of an individual is 120 years. Over the course of this 120 year period an individual moves through 9 distinct periods which correspond to the nine "planets" used in the Vedic System; the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu (the north and south nodes of the moon.)

Since each planet has either a beneficial nature (Moon, Mercury, Jupiter and Venus) or malefic nature (Sun, Mars, Saturn, Rahu, Ketu), you can see how each dasa period may play out. These major planetary periods last from 6-19 years in length depending on the planet. The way each planet's mahadasa period expresses is also dependent on how that planet is aspected in the chart and which houses it rules or is associated with. During a major planetary period there are also sub-periods that further delineate the nature of the overall period.

The reason that the planetary periods are so important is that they indicate the timing of the unfolding of karma. If you have a planet that is well placed in your chart by sign, house and aspect, then during that planet's mahadasa period you will see the unfolding of it's beneficial nature. Likewise, if you have a planet that is a negative influence in the chart, you will also experience the unfolding of that karma as well.

The good news is that knowing about the planetary periods alerts you to what planetary influences have affected you in the past, what are occurring now, and what will be occurring in the future. With this knowledge you can then use remedial measures such as mantras and gemstones to minimize the negative effects or maximize the positive effects of the period.

When my clients report that they have experienced a dramatic shift in their life circumstances (either positive or negative) I can almost guarantee that they have shifted from one planetary period to another. Having this information available to you about the current planetary period that you are in can give you a perspective on what is happening now and the tools to make the most out of whatever karma is unfolding.

James Jarvis, M.A. (Transpersonal Counseling) is a master Vedic & Western Astrologer, Career & Dharma coach and Transpersonal Counselor. Through his international astrology and coaching practice, James has helped thousands of people draw out and productively use their inherent wisdom and talent. For those who want support in discovering, clarifying and manifesting their vision and life purpose, James is available for astrological and career coaching sessions by phone. To schedule phone consultations call (541) 201-2709, or e-mail: jjarvis@lifeqwest.com