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10° 00’ Vrisabha - 23° 20’ Vrisabha In the Sky
Rohini, seed of lunar energy, is represented in celestial firmament by a very bright pale rose star in constellation of Vrisabha. This star is known in modern astronomy as Alpha Tauri (Aldebaran). Aldebaran is one of brightest stars in night sky, with a visual magnitude of 0.99. In fact this unique pale rose star can even be spotted in evening sky. Ancient Vedic Seers revered this star because this was supposed to be abode of Brahma and Prajapatis.
Name
”Rohini” translates into ”reddish one” or ”growing one”. The ”one” here carries a feminine tone and can be read as ”celestial woman”. Color ”red” evokes notions of warmth, passion and liveliness. Fact that in ancient cultures it was seen as color of abundance and prosperity, reveals some of essential characteristics of Rohini. Its alternative names – ”Vidhi” and ”Viranchi”, a name which relates to Brahma (creator among Trinity) - reveal more sides of this fascinating Nakshatra.
Symbol
Rohini’s main symbol is an ”ox cart”, pulled by two oxen. Oxen have been used as fertility symbols by all ancient cultures. Even Vrisabha, Rasi representing ”bounties of earth”, has a bull, ox or cow as its symbol. In countries like India, where Vedic civilization flourished, an ox cart was one of only ways to transport various earth produces like crops over large distances. They serve same function which trucks serve in present day and age.
Just as ox cart carries harvested and ready to use produce, Rohini is supposed to be carrier of all fruits of creation. Its relationship with ox cart immediately suggests that it has a lot to do with all aspects of agriculture, cattle rearing and all other activities involving material produce. The ”carrier” aspect of ox cart relates Rohini to all kinds of conveyances. An ox cart is a very earthy symbol and as a matter of fact, Rohini is most materialistic amongst Nakshatras. In ancient times ox carts were ”wheels of commerce”. Thus in present day and age, Rohini relates to all kinds of commerce and financial dealings.
All qualities normally associated with oxen, like steadiness, fixidity and ability to romp over anything which comes in its way, find expression through Rohini. As a result of ox cart symbolism, Rohini relates to ”development of agriculture” and therefore ”civilization” itself. All qualities normally ascribed to Vrisabha, such as earthiness, fixidity, stability, creativity, productivity, material security, acquisitiveness, refinement, accumulating, luxury loving, indulgence, idealism in love, beauty and relationships, are mostly derived from Rohini’s essential qualities.
Deity
Brahma, creator among governing Trinity of Universe, is main presiding deity of Rohini. There are only three Nakshatras which have one of Trinity as its main presiding deity. This says a lot regarding importance of this Nakshatra, especially in regards to affairs of Bhuloka (earthly realm).
There are a lot of legends connecting Brahma to this Nakshatra. Main legend relates to an earlier point of time in history of Universe, when Brahma, after creating a daughter named Rohini, fell in love with her. From Vedic point of view, every constellation is seen as a feminine goddess entity. Rohini’s extraordinary charm and magnetism is made clear by fact that Chandr, whose duty is to spend only a certain amount of time with each of these feminine figures in his monthly travel through zodiac, at one point, refused to leave Rohini’s abode. So it is not hard to see why Brahma fell for her and pursued her, despite stigma attached with engaging in ”cosmic incest”! However, he was stopped short in his chase by Shiva and had to be satisfied with just having rulership of this Nakshatra (please refer to esoteric section of ”Ardra”).
From this story it is clear that Rohini is most alluring amongst all Nakshatras. Just as money in present day world spins people around, Rohini makes people and even gods chase after it in every which way possible. Rohini relates to wish-fulfilling creative aspect of nature, embodied by goddesses of prosperity like Lakshmi, spouse of Vishnu. Due to its association with Brahma, it has ability to create anything which constitutes ”prosperity” and ”abundance” on any plane of existence. All Brahma does is ”create, create and create” and same is case with Rohini. It is thus not hard to see that its services are much in demand in all Lokas (planes of existence). Rohini is that important productive aspect of Maya, which keeps game of life worth playing for those involved.
Nature & Functioning
Rohini is harbinger of agriculture and consequently ”civilization”, as we understand it. It is a very productive Nakshatra which supports all types of growth. Growing of plants, when we put seeds into earth, is a Rohini process. Rohini relates to production of all types of amenities required for civilized living. When working through its higher plane, Rohini is only interested in use of products derived directly from nature. In its low aspect, it indulges in all types of chemical, synthetic and man-made products. Evolved Rohini types are usually true environmentalists and conservationists, while lesser evolved ones promote unwholesome products like those of present day cosmetic industry.
Rohini natives usually have large, clear and expressive eyes, refined feminine features, thick lower lip and a smiling countenance. They have a stable, earthy and well balanced way about them. They are as unresponsive to external stimuli as a cow. They only open up in extremely intimate situations. Their unflinching quality often comes out as stubbornness. Despite their calm exteriors, they can be very expressive with their voice and gestures. They can act well, whenever necessary. They are smooth talkers and have gentle, seductive mannerisms.
They seek attention and more often than not are able to get it. They are extremely popular within their social circle because of their charisma. They often use their charm and social ease for manipulating situations to suit their own ends. This is obviously a good thing if their personal ends are in line with universal ends, but when this is not case, they can be most self-serving of all people. It is very easy for them to gain trust of others, and in present day and age, this is often used to derive some sort of material benefit.
They are both sexually alluring and indulgent at same time. On whole they have simplistic personalities. This makes them appear dull and boring to those natives who are ruled by more complex Nakshatras. In Kali Yuga they often turn out to be plain materialists and sensualists. Rohini natives are always very concerned about being constructively productive in one way or other. They want to be of use to their home, community or world in general, depending upon their level of soul functioning. Essential fertile nature of Rohini helps them achieve their goals without much fuss.
Rohini always facilitates materialization of one’s thoughts and desires. This ability to give expression to feelings and thoughts makes it artistic. Rohini is a true patron of arts, and therefore level of artistic sensibilities at any given point of time among collective, defines level where Rohini is working from. These days, when standards in arts have declined to really putrid or abominable levels, one can easily see that Rohini is working through its lower, baser expression in majority of populace.
Rohini natives have a tremendous fixidity of purpose and persevere until their will is done. They usually have strong family values and tend to support those within their close circle. It is not possible for those outside their inner circle to hold their attention for long, as they are very quick to spot weaknesses in others. Despite their naturally fixed nature, they like to quickly flit through people when it comes to social and communal interactions. When working through their lower natures, Rohini natives are cool and suave opportunists who have a knack for extracting favors and financial support from others.
Rohini natives are usually conservative to a degree, but at same time are open to new influences. Word ”conservative” is used here in all its implications. Conservation part of their nature comes out strongly when it comes to preserving body. Rohini is very strongly related to life force within us. Most natives with a prominent Rohini are usually very careful about their health and live up to a ripe old age. In younger souls, Rohini can cause a fear of death and dislike for ageing process. Mantra of Rohini is to create, create and create. Natives with Rohini connected to 5th Bhava in some form, like to have lots of progeny.
Common English words like ”robust”, ”romantic”, ”Romeo”, ”rosy”, ”rose”, seem to have same root as word ”Rohini”. All these terms give us clues to Rohini’s functioning at different levels, especially in regards to matter of enjoyment. Rohini is one of most enjoyment-oriented Nakshatras. It believes in making most of good things in life.
In universal scheme of things, Rohini relates to ”Rohana Shakti” or power to make things grow. Its symbolism has plants above and water below. This is obviously a representation of fertility aspect of nature. Rohini is force which makes possible materialization of astral impulses.
Mode of functioning
Rohini is considered to be a balanced Nakshatra. Those who are involved in any productive activity will understand importance of balance in achieving desired results. Just as nature is creative and productive through balance of heat and cold, light and dark, rain and shine, winter and summer etc., Rohini is methodical and balanced in its actions. In its negative aspect however, Rohini, like other balanced Nakshatras, makes one go through life with least amount of adventure possible. It can be ultra-conservative and reluctant to try new things, which add to its wisdom and experience. On positive side, it knows how to stay within assigned life path, without unnecessary strain.
Caste
It belongs to Shudra caste. It may surprise some that Rohini is assigned this lowly caste. One has to understand that Rohini relates to ”salt of earth” people, who are involved in activities directly dealing with earth. Farmers (those who actually work in fields) and construction workers, were all seen as belonging to Shudra caste in ancient times.
Gender
It is a female Nakshatra. Its association with two feminine Grahas, Chandr and Sukr, make Rohini a primarily feminine energy.
It is also fourth Nakshatra and number 4 represents mothering principle in nature. Rohini is asterism most related to earth, which is seen as a feminine entity in all ancient cultures.
Body Parts & Humor
Forehead, ankles, shins and calves of legs are body parts related to this Nakshatra.
It is a primarily ”Kapha” (watery) Nakshatra. This stems from its association with two primarily Kapha Grahas, Chandr and Sukr. Among three humors, Kapha is most closely related to earth element. This automatically makes Rohini a Kapha Nakshatra.
Direction
It is related primarily to South, South-East and North-West.
Padas
First Pada of this asterism (10° 00’ - 13° 20’ Vrisabha) falls in Mesha Navamsa and is ruled by Mangal. Passions and carnal nature are heightened here. Focus is on indulgence and extravagance. Grahas here want quick-fire material results. Only a well placed Surya and Mangal do well here. In its higher aspect, this Pada can make one a spiritual warrior fighting against exploitation on a material plane. On that level, it is a purifying energy which combines spirituality with matter without differentiation.
Second Pada of this asterism (13° 20’ - 16° 40’ Vrisabha) falls in Vrisabha Navamsa ruled by Sukr. This Pada best exemplifies all what Rohini stands for. Grahas here usually give abundance and ability to conjure up required resources in worst of conditions. Native, however, may tend to suffer from extreme materialism. This Pada allows one to give expression to their thoughts and feelings through material means. Being a Vargottama Pada, it gives very strong results. This is strongest Pada in zodiac when it comes to actualization and fulfillment of desires. Chandr, Budh, Sukr and Sani are especially strong here.
Third Pada of this asterism (16° 44’ - 20° 00’ Vrisabha) falls in Mithuna Navamsa ruled by Budh. Focus of this Pada is on arts, sciences and business. It is most flexible and shrewd amongst Rohini’s Padas and has power to accumulate wealth equivalent to second Pada. This is a lighthearted and jovial Pada, and has less chances of getting stuck on purely material issues in comparison to previous Pada. Budh, Sukr and Sani give strong results in this Pada.
Fourth Pada of this asterism (20° 00’ - 23° 20’ Vrisabha) falls in Karkataka Navamsa ruled by Chandr. Focus here is on home and material security. Money comes in through short travels. Grahas placed here have a maternal quality to them, but can get excessively possessive and narrow minded. A lot of worst qualities of Rohini, like unnecessary hoarding, are relayed through this Pada. Only a well placed Chandr or Guru function well here.
Professions
Farming; agriculturists of all types; all professions relating with growing, processing and handling food; botanists; herbalists; artists; musicians; entertainment and leisure industries; fashion & cosmetic industry; beauticians; sex therapists; jewelers; gemstone dealers; interior decorators; bankers and financiers; transportation business; tourism industry; automobile industry; oil & petroleum industry; textile industry; shipping industry; food production, packaging & distribution industry; all professions connected with aquatic products and liquids of all types.
Places
Farms, orchards, gardens, agricultural estates, places where herbs grow; bus & train stations & shipping yards; ponds & swimming pools; banks & financial institutions; marketplaces; bars, restaurants, hotels; tourist resorts; studios for creative arts of all kinds; places where gemstones are founds; all places connected with above professions.
Guna & Tatva
It is supposed to be a Rajasic Nakshatra. This classification is obvious, considering materially productive quality of this Nakshatra. Fact that it is related to Chandr and Sukr, two primarily Rajasic Grahas, settles issue.
It belongs to earth element. This is an obvious classification considering Rohini falls completely within earth Rasi of Vrisabha. We have already touched upon its earthy quality many times throughout this chapter.
Gana
It is considered a ”Manusha” (human) Nakshatra. Rohini’s earthy quality and its association with agriculture and civilization makes it strongly involved in human affairs. It represents earth’s bounties without which human beings cannot survive. It is Nakshatra which most strongly supports human life.
Orientation & Disposition
It is an upward Nakshatra. If we recall, one of translations of Rohini’s name is ”growing one”. Thus it relates to all things which grow upwards, like crops and buildings. We have already stated that any activity started in this Nakshatra experiences growth, increase and expansion.
It is a ”Dhruva” (fixed or permanent) Nakshatra. Its fixed nature is best exemplified by behavior pattern of oxen, its main animal symbol. Its permanence relates to defined quality of nature, which ensures that trees bear fruit every growing season and that rivers flow from their source to sea. In modern times, nature has become unreliable to an extent, only due to destructive functioning of mankind. Still, she can be more or less relied upon to sustain six billion of us.
Lunar Month & Tithi
Rohini relates to second half of lunar month of Karttika, which usually corresponds to November in solar calendar. Rohini is also related to Dvitiya (2nd Tithi) of waxing and waning phases of Chandr’s monthly cycle.
Auspicious Activities
Extremely favorable for initiating activities of all types; favorable for farming activities like planting, sowing; trading & financial dealings of all types; good for marriage; all healing & self-improvement measures; nature exploration and travelling in general; beginning construction; romance and sexual activity; putting material world in order; purchase of clothes, jewelry, automobiles etc.
Inauspicious Activities
Not unfavorable for any action, except those related to death, demolishing and destruction.
Lords
Chandr and Sukr are two Grahas connected with Rohini. Chandr is Rohini’s main planetary Lord. Lunar energy imbues Rohini with primordial feminine energy. Sukr is also related to Shakti, universal feminine force. Confluence of two feminine Grahas make Rohini a portal for material expression of Shakti.
Chandr’s natural grace, nurturing ability and maternity combines with venusian charm, creativity and productivity, to make Rohini one of most fruitful Nakshatras. It is most feminine amongst all Nakshatras and therefore most receptive and productive. Just like ”Mother Earth”, it provides for all without bias. In present times however, Rohini is exploited, just as women and Mother Earth in general are exploited at hands of dark forces which rule our planet. Rohini’s bountifulness has been exploited to extreme levels through unbounded greed. This is reason why most of earth is polluted and most of women troubled and unhappy. Ruling forces of planet deliberately corrupt feminine principle through use of media.
Chandr / Sukr conjunction carries energy similar to Rohini. Chandr, Budh, Sukr and Sani express themselves strongly when placed in Rohini.
Vowels & Alphabets
First Pada of this asterism (10° 00’ - 13° 20’ Vrisabha) corresponds to ”O” as in Omega.
Second Pada of this asterism (13° 20’ - 16° 40’ Vrisabha) corresponds to ”Va” as in Value.
Third Pada of this asterism (16° 40’ - 20° 00’ Vrisabha) corresponds to ”Vi” as in Victor.
Fourth Pada of this asterism (20° 00’ - 23° 20’ Vrisabha) corresponds to ”Vu” as in Wood.
In Sanskrit alphabet, Rohini corresponds to ”Rm” and ”Lrm”, consequently its Mantras are ”Om Rm” and ”Om Lrm”.
Sexual Type & Compatibility
Its sexual animal is a cobra. This makes Rohini exhibit serpent qualities in sexual union. Sarpas (celestial serpent beings) are regarded as being adepts at sexual activity. In fact, Rohini is supposed to be most sexually adept among all Nakshatras. This is probably reason why Chandr god was not ready to leave Rohini’s abode. Representative goddess figurine of this Nakshatra is supposed to be master of all thirty-two principles of sexual union. Rohini is most compatible with Mrigashira, other serpent Nakshatra.
For sexual & marital compatibility with other Nakshatras, please refer to tables at end of this document.
Esoteric
Since Rohini is fourth Nakshatra, all qualities normally associated with number 4 in Numerology, form basis of this Nakshatra’s universal role. 4 is number of structure and concreteness. Material Universe takes form under energies of this Nakshatra. Fire of Krittika is transformed into earth element. In language of physics, we can say that pure energy condenses to form physical atoms, molecules etc. Rohini is representative of Brahma’s power to turn energy into mass (tangible matter).
In modern day Tarot pack, fourth card called ”Empress”, represents Rohini’s role in game of life, as ”great fruitful mother goddess” representing fertility, warmth, passion and abundance. She is supposed to represent Maia, as she creates an earthly or material paradise. Rohini therefore can be seen as a channel through which Divine expresses itself through matter.
It is interesting to note that ”Empress” card carries symbol of Sukr, a Graha very strongly connected with Rohini. Truth of matter is that word ”Tarot” is derived from word ”Taro”, which in turn comes from Sanskrit term ”Tara”, meaning ”star”. All 21 cards of Major Arcana in this pack have been derived from 21 main attributes of great mother goddess ”Tara” or ”Jagdamba”, in charge of universal affairs.
We all have to admit that pleasure and enjoyment on varying levels is basis of game of life. If it wasn’t for Rohini, universal mind would have a hard time sustaining drama of life, as very few souls would be willing to play it.
Gotra
This Nakshatra is related to Sage Atri, one of seven celestial Sages looking after affairs of our galaxy. Name of this Sage translates into ”one who consumes”. Atri seems to be a Sage with a dual nature. He has rulership over two creative Nakshatras and two destructive Nakshatras. Rohini obviously relates to his productive side. From another point of view, Rohini can be seen as a devouring Nakshatra, in sense that it consumes souls through its excessive materialism.
Remedial
Reverence towards cows, earth and nature in its various forms is best way to get on right side of Rohini’s energy. Worshipping Brahma, its presiding deity, is not sanctioned by Vedic texts. Brahma is under curse of Shiva, which doesn’t allow for his worship on earthly plane.
Repetition of root Mantras of this Nakshatra - ”Om Rm” and ”Om Lrm” 108 times when Chandr transits this Nakshatra and in its corresponding lunar month, is sure to reduce suffering and bring enlightenment into a person’s life.
Persons who are benefiting from positive energy of this Nakshatra can also increase good effects through above mentioned ways. It is helpful for them to wear all reds, whites, crèmes and bright pastel shades. White fabrics with flower designs are suitable. They should use its directions, lunar month and days when Chandr transits Rohini, to undertake all important actions.
Example
Krishna, Vishnu’s 8th incarnation, was born with both his Lagna and Chandr in Rohini. Most Indians are aware of Krishna’s personality and life and can therefore easily relate his life with Rohini’s functioning. Krishna was known for his beautiful eyes, strong personal magnetism and ability to find material manifestation of all his thoughts and desires.
Queen Victoria, lady who was seen as crowning monarch of 75 % of earth, was also born with both her Lagna and Chandr in Rohini. In her case expansive and acquisitive material aspect of Rohini is brought to light.
Miscellaneous
According to Varahamihira, those born with Chandr in Rohini are ”honest, pure, beautiful, have steady minds and pleasant speech.” This applies to Krishna totally and to a certain extent to Victoria as well.
