Nakshatras & Lunar Mansions

27 Nakshatras Explained

Explore the 27 lunar mansions and their profound influence on personality, destiny, and life events.

Overview

The 27 Nakshatras are lunar mansions that divide the zodiac into 27 equal parts of 13°20' each. They represent the Moon's daily journey through the sky and provide deeper insights than zodiac signs alone.

Each Nakshatra has its own deity, symbol, qualities, and ruling planet. They influence personality traits, career inclinations, relationship compatibility, and timing of events.

Understanding your birth Nakshatra (where the Moon was positioned at birth) reveals your emotional nature, instincts, and karmic patterns.

The 27 Lunar Mansions

Ancient Stellar Wisdom

The Nakshatras begin with Ashwini and end with Revati, each ruling 13°20' of the zodiac. They are grouped into four padas (quarters) of 3°20' each, adding another layer of interpretation.

Each Nakshatra has specific characteristics: Ashwini represents healing and speed, Bharani signifies transformation and creativity, Krittika embodies cutting through illusions, and so on.

The Nakshatra of your Moon sign is most important, but the Nakshatras of other planets also influence their results.

Key Points

  • 27 Nakshatras divide zodiac into lunar mansions
  • Each covers 13°20' and has 4 padas
  • Birth Nakshatra determines emotional nature
  • Each has deity, symbol, and ruling planet
  • Influences personality and life timing

Nakshatra Classifications

Groups and Categories

Nakshatras are classified by their nature (gana): Deva (divine), Manushya (human), and Rakshasa (demonic). This classification influences temperament and behavior patterns.

They are also grouped by their primary motivation: Dharma (righteousness), Artha (material pursuits), Kama (desires), and Moksha (liberation). This shows life priorities and goals.

Movement-based classification includes fixed, movable, and dual natures, which affect the timing and permanence of activities undertaken during their periods.

Key Points

  • Three ganas: Deva, Manushya, Rakshasa
  • Four motivations: Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha
  • Three movements: Fixed, Movable, Dual
  • Classifications affect personality traits
  • Useful for timing important activities