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What are Houses in Vedic Astrology

A Comprehensive Guide to Houses in Vedic Astrology

In Sanskrit, a House is referred to as a ‘Bhava’. Bhava means emotion or expression hence, each of these houses defines an emotion or expression of our existence on earth and demonstrates any talents or challenges you may have in this lifetime.

The twelve houses/bhavas indicate the many spheres of influence in life and our strengths within them. The houses are a dynamic twelve-fold division of the zodiac, beginning at different times in each chart.

The 12 houses are equally dispersed among the 360-degree Zodiac. By that calculation, each house has a 30-degree angle. The ascendant is placed first, followed by the other 11 houses. Lagna Bhava, or the first house, starts when the first beginning star rises at the time of birth since houses are measured from cusp to cusp.

Classification of the Houses by Element and Quality

Understanding the different categories of houses

1. Angular (Kendra) Houses: 1, 4, 7, and 10

Angled planets typically have strong and dynamic power. They possess a sharp, energetic, decisive, and penetrating edge. They impart strength for success and achievement as well as a usually extroverted or imaginative will.

2. Succedent (Panapara) Houses: 2, 5, 8 and 11

The planets here are moderately powerful here. They reflect the building up of resources, the emergence of stability, and reserve. Although they aid in maintenance and protection, they are not suitable for initiating or completing new projects.

3. Cadent (Apoklima) Houses: 3, 6, 9 and 12

Planets are weak, unsure, or secretive in their activities here. They provide mental openness and all-around adaptability, which can result in high intellect. They can also lead to mental and nervous issues because of their tendency for instability and uneasiness.

4. Trine (Trikona) Houses: 1, 5 and 9

These are Vedic Astrology's second-best houses. In relation to the Ascendant, they make a triangle. Jupiter enjoys trines because they involve its trine aspect. In these, the Moon also performs well.

5. Upachaya Houses: 3, 6, 10 and 11

They are the increasing houses. As one ages, the planets positioned here become stronger over time and produce progressively better results. These houses are favorable for malefic like the Sun, Saturn, Mars, and the lunar nodes.

6. Apachaya Houses: 1, 2, 4, 7 and 8

They are the decreasing houses. Malefic planets do poorly in these houses, and planets with these positions gradually lose their strength. The eighth of these is the worst and is likely the house where planets are the least lucky to be located (though it can still give high intelligence and some other good attributes).

7. Dusthana Houses: 6, 8, and 12

These are malefic or difficult houses. They are weaker and can be problematic for planets. They are to blame for your problems and the source of your suffering.

8. Maraka Houses: 2 and 7

These are the death-inflicting houses. To produce negative effects, the maraka's residences should be afflicted with that symbol. But when they do produce negative outcomes, the impact can be substantial and lead to long-term harm or serious health problems.

Classification of the Houses by Purusharthas

Purusarthas are the aims that define our conduct in life. In order to achieve our goals, we naturally engage in the means of obtaining them.

1. Dharma (Righteousness) Houses: 1, 5 and 9

These three factors, in relation to one another, determine your ability to carry out your responsibilities without becoming agitated or nervous. These three houses dictate our analytical skills and the ways in which we fulfill our responsibilities towards family, society, country, and lastly, our own selves.

2. Artha (Material Prosperity) Houses: 2, 6, and 10

We seek material prosperity in life, and Artha chiefly marks our economic development. Material prosperity is required to carry out our responsibilities to various sectors of society. The three houses in coordination propel you towards doing your karma in the respective field of your employment. Artha is concerned with the physical and material necessities of living.

3. Kama (Desires) Houses: 3, 7, and 11

In connection with each other, all three houses bring about a subtle play of emotions. When you harness these emotions, they take you to the highest form of bhakti, but if you leave them on the loose, they ravage your caliber in material as well as spiritual life. They essentially deal with your goals and driving forces.

4. Moksha (Mukti/Emancipation) Houses: 4, 8, and 12

These houses have the power to save you. They together make up Moksha Trikona. These three houses can be used to learn liberation-related mysteries and play a significant role while attaining enlightenment.

the 12 houses

Deep dive into all 12 houses

Conclusion

Understanding the 12 houses in Vedic astrology provides profound insights into different aspects of human life. Each house represents a unique sphere of experience, and their classification by elements, qualities, and purusharthas helps us comprehend the deeper meanings and influences in our birth charts.

By studying these houses, we gain a comprehensive view of our life's journey, challenges, and opportunities, allowing us to navigate our path with greater awareness and wisdom.

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