Vedic Astrology appeared in Sanskrit. Later day authors came up with the name – “Vedic Astrology”. The word “Vedic” means “pertaining to Vedas.” Vedas are the sacred scriptures of, what is known today as Hinduism and they are supposed to contain knowledge of all subjects. Moreover, astrology in particular is supposed to be a “Vedaanga” (which means a limb of Vedas).

     Vedic Astrology is becoming popular these days. This author also suggests using “Vedic Astrology” or “Jyotish” (meaning “science of light”). Jyotishi is a practitioner of Jyotish, i.e. a Vedic astrologer.

     Vedic Astrology is thought to be as old as this creation is. Thanks to the yeoman service rendered by Dr. B.V. Raman and the efforts of other Indian astrologers to follow him, today we have a fair amount of Jyotish literature in Vedic Astrology.

     Vedic Astrology covers divisional charts, special ascendants, arudhas, argalas, yogas, ashtakavarga, avasthas, a few Nakshatra dashas, a few rashi dasas, several techniques of transit analysis. Unfortunately, some people think today that Parashara and Jaimini taught two totally different approaches to Vedic Astrology. When we talk about arudha padas, argalas, chara karakas, chara dasa and other rasi dashas, people think of them as “Jaimini astrology.”

     Vedic Astrology is considered a sacred subject and Maharshi Parasara warned us against sharing this knowledge with unworthy people. Ancient sages laid down some rules for the ethical behaviour of a Vedic astrologer. One should follow the rule of Vedic Astrology.