Purvaphalguni is represented in the night sky by two bright stars in the back of the constellation of Leo. These stars can be seen forming a part of the lion shape usually associated with the constellation Leo. However ancient Vedic seers saw these two stars as representing the back legs of a cot (or the two poles of a swinging hammock). These stars are known in modern astronomy as Delta-Leonis (Zosma) and Theta-Leonis (Chertan). With a visual magnitude of 2.56, Zosma is the brighter one among them. It is very easy to locate these stars in the night sky as Leo is the brightest among the twelve zodiacal constellations. These stars are located to the left of the bright star Regulus where the hindlegs of the lion figure of Leo are supposed to be. Zosma lies on top of Chertan.
Purvaphalguni translates into the «former reddish one», «the former» or «little fig tree». The colour red always evokes a wide variety of meanings and feelings and as we shall see, this nakshatra has a lot to do with the nature, qualities and temperament generally associated with the colour red. The «fig tree» translation is a more obscure one and relates to the procreative aspect of this asterism.
Its main symbol is the front legs of a couch or bed. The bed referred to here is not the bed we use for sleeping on during the night time, but a divan or bed/couch used for a daytime siesta or lounging around. Some astrologers also use a swinging hammock as one of Purvaphalguni's symbols. It is pretty clear from the above symbols that 'comfort' is the keyword for this nakshatra. In the cycle of the 27 nakshatras, the soul looks for comfort and enjoyment after attaining the 'throne' in the previous nakshatra.
Purvaphalguni relates to a time where we look for rest, relaxation and amusement after fulfilling our worldly duties and responsibilities (activities ruled by the previous nakshatra). The symbolism of the front legs of a bed/couch relates to the beginning part of this relaxation process. When we are very tired and hop onto a couch or a bed we usually go into a mode of complete relaxation in the beginning (the time period varies from individual to individual). Purvaphalguni relates to this beginning period where we feel like doing no activity and are completely intent upon renewing our energy. Purvaphalguni is thus strongly related with the forces of renewal, which ultimately link it to the process of creation itself.
It is difficult for some of us to understand how something can be creative without being active. All activity is dependant upon periods of non-activity. Nothing or no one can work all the time. It is the periods of rest which provide the impulse for the creative/active periods. A lot of scientists and researchers have found that the solution to a problem usually comes to them, not when they are actually working at the problem, but in the period when they have taken their mind off it and are in a state of complete relaxation. In the fast paced life of modern times, especially in cities, people have forgotten the importance of having adequate periods of rest between activities. This is probably the root cause for most of the physical and psychological traumas faced by the fast paced city dweller. However one must be careful not to amplify the Purvaphalguni energy, which usually results in excessive laziness and indulgence.
Bhaga, one of the twelve Adityas (solar deities), is the main ruling deity of this nakshatra. He is often referred to as the «morning star», which might be a reference to the planet Venus. As we shall discover later,Venus is the planetary ruler of this nakshatra and was seen in ancient times as a planet 4 representing the solar aspect of nature. Bhaga's name translates roughly into «delight». A similar Sanskrit word called «bhoga» translates into «pleasure» or «indulgence». The term «Bhaga» finds use in «bhagavan» (full of delight), one of the Sanskrit names often used for gods, incarnations and evolved souls. In keeping with his name, Bhaga is known for bestowing rest, relaxation, enjoyment, pleasure, affection, sexual passion and marital felicity. Thus Purvaphalguni is seen to promote all of the above indications.
Bhaga's strong relationship with enjoyment and merriment makes this one of the most carefree nakshatras. Purvaphalguni natives don't like to worry as long as they are comfortable, especially from a physical point of view. Bhaga's obsession with physicality often makes Purvaphalguni natives overtly concerned with their bodies. Bhaga's amorous nature gives Purvaphalguni natives a strong desire to appear beautiful and be appreciated. Bhaga stands for an easy life full of comfort and luxury and this is what all Purvaphalguni natives aspire for. Bhaga relates to that solar aspect of nature, which makes life worth living. If one removes the pleasure aspect from the universe, not many souls will be willing to take part in the game of life.
Bhaga is always usually invoked along with Aryaman, the ruling deity of Uttaraphalguni, the following nakshatra. As we shall discover later, these nakshatras form a pair in the same vein as Mrigashira and Ardra.
Purvaphalguni is directly connected to the Shiva Lingam, the most commonly worshipped form of Shiva. The fact that Shiva's penis is worshipped more than Shiva as a whole, relates to the penis being a regenerative symbol, representing creation and continuation of life; while Shiva as a whole is the god of destruction. Purvaphalguni thus relates to the creative and delightful aspect of Shiva, which can be easily understood through the stories and legends associated with him. It is interesting to note that the penis is the most delicate part of male anatomy. This fact brings out the essential tender quality of Purvaphalguni.
After the victory crown and throne achieved through intense battles in Magha, it is natural that rest, relaxation and enjoyment follow. This is what Purvaphalguni is all about. A period of rest follows every period of activity, just like a sunny calm follows a storm. Amongst all the nakshatras, Purvaphalguni is the most related to the recreational aspect of nature's functionings. It offers shelter from the vicissitudes of the drama of life.
The sense of self having been firmly established in Magha, self-absorption reaches a peak in this nakshatra. Just like a tired person looking for some place and time to rest, the concerns here are me, myself and I. The intensive absorption of this nakshatra makes it dramatic. The fact that it falls in the middle of the sign of dramatics, Leo, further encourages this tendency, making it the most theatrical amongst the nakshatras. Purvaphalguni natives have a strong desire to be noticed for what they are and what they do. This is the reason why a lot of Purvaphalguni natives fall prey to pretentious behaviour and attitudes. Learning anything, especially new things, becomes very hard for such natives as they don't want to look beyond their own little world, no matter how superficial it might be. If it wasn't for Purvaphalguni, terms like «vanity» and «pompousness» wouldn't exist.
Despite its self-indulgent eccentricity, Purvaphalguni is a social nakshatra. It likes to function within prevailing social standards. Despite its natural fixed character, it shows amazing flexibility when it comes to fitting the prevailing social norms. It likes the comfort and safety of blending in, rather than standing out. In its positive aspect, Purvaphalguni can be a warm, sustaining and nourishing influence on those around then. It is one of the cornerstone nakshatras which keep up the pillars of human society.
Having said this, it must be remembered that Purvaphalguni is a naturally cruel nakshatra and therefore natives under its strong influence can be expected to be capable of carrying out ruthless acts. Purvaphalguni's cruelty usually comes out when its rest, relaxation or amusement is disturbed by an outside agency. Natives under its influence get easily hurt and get extremely vindictive over small issues. This is especially the case if they don't get the requisite amount of attention from others which they think they deserve in their own minds.
Despite their limitations of pride, jealousy and vindictiveness, these natives are quite delightful creatures to be around when appreciating the finer enjoyments in life. They can be the most fun to hang around socially, as they radiate their Leonine warmth and beneficence from their position on the bed or couch. It is very easy to spot a Purvaphalguni native in a crowd as they will be the one in the most comfortable spot. They are usually in no hurry to begin the day's activities and like to lead lives of luxury, even if they can't afford to. They are not overachievers except in areas where little physical discomfort is demanded of them. They are happy idling about in the office, in the arts studio, making love or entertaining others with their personality. Most of their efforts go in trying to make themselves comfortable or exploring their own personal feelings, thoughts and emotions. They usually end up having a family but are often not very suited for the parental role. Their self-obsessive aspect usually makes them cruel or unnerving for their children.
In the universal scheme of things, Purvaphalguni relates to «prajanana shakti» — the power to procreate. Its symbolism has female above and male below. It is immediately apparent that Purvaphalguni is all about creation through union of the polar natural opposites. Its objective is creation of a family on the macrocosmic as well as microcosmic level.
Purvaphalguni is considered to be a Balanced nakshatra. Purvaphalguni balances creativity with relaxation, work with pleasure, aggression with gentleness. The aesthetically refined aspect of this nakshatra arises out of its ability to find a delicate balance with objects, colours and the like. As far as being active is concerned, it is a lazy nakshatra.
It belongs to the Brahmin caste. Purvaphalguni relays the brahminical side of the brahmin planet Venus. Shukra Charya, the.presiding deity of Venus, is the perceptor of the demons and has the unique distinction of knowing Sanjivinividya (knowledge of bringing the dead back to life), which even Brihaspati, the perceptor of the gods, does not possess. A brahmin is someone who is supposed to understand the secret functionings of Maya and Venus's association with Purvaphalguni relates it to all kinds of occult knowledge.
It is a Female nakshatra. Even though both of its ruling deities are male, the primary impulses of this nakshatra, like beauty, vanity, love of ease, comfort and luxury are all primarily feminine concerns. They come about due to this nakshatra's strong connection with Venus, which is seen in Jyotish as a feminine planet.
The Sex Organs, the Lips and the Right Hand are the body parts related to this nakshatra.
It is a primarily «Pitta» (fiery) nakshatra. Its pitta quality arises out of its connection with Leo, a pitta sign and Sun, a pitta planet. Fire is the essence of desire.
It is related primarily to the directional arc between south east and east.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Leo Navamsa ruled by Sun. The emphasis here is on just I, I and more I. The evolved souls can use the warmth of their soul power to illuminate the minds of those around them, whereas for younger souls planets in this pada just heighten the ego. «Dignity» and «Regality» are the keywords here. Sun, Mars, Jupiter and Ketu can function strongly here and give some sort of executive ability.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Virgo Navamsa ruled by Mercury. This is the most sober and hardworking amongst all of these naturally pompous and lazy padas. The emphasis here is on trade and enterprise. A well placed Mercury here can give good common sense and heavy gains through trade.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Libra Navamsa ruled by Venus. This pada brings out the indulgent as well as creative Venusian aspect of Purvaphalguni. The emphasis here is on travel, harmony, relaxation, refinement, counselling, creation and appreciation of beauty. Since this is the Pushkara Navamsha pada most planets except Sun give good results here. Venus is especially strong in this pada.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Scorpio Navamsa ruled by Mars. The emphasis here is on intensified emotions, home and family life, self reflection and personal valour. Passions are very strong here and all things in life are approached with a martian spirit. Planets here usually give rise to a lot of unnecessary strife and complexity. Only a well placed Sun and Jupiter are capable of utilizing this pada's inner positive fashion.
Animal trainers; Government Officials; Executives; Diplomats; Dealers in products related to women; Gemstone Industry; Entertainers; Beauticians; Make up Artists; Models; Photographers; Event Managers; Art Gallery Managers; Singers, mostly romantic types; Musicians (more into harmonies than other aspects of music); Creative Artists; Teaching profession in general; Dyemakers; Physical Fitness Trainers; Interior Decorators and Designers; All professions connected with Marriages, Marriage Ceremonies and Childbirths; Nannies; Doctors (both Naturopaths and Allopaths); Sex-Therapists; Sleep Therapists; Masseurs; Those involved in Dating Agencies; Biologists; Leisure and Tourism Industry; People connected with Production and Distribution of Incenses, Toiletries and related Venusian Products; Goldsmiths and Jewellers; Wool, Cotton and Silk industry; Secretarial jobs.
Hot tropical landscapes; Flowery landscapes; Beaches; Entertainment halls; Exhibition places; Bedroom; Tourist resorts; Spas; Living rooms; Art galleries; Beauty parlours; Markets, especially the kind related to Venusian products; Pretty cottages, buildings and homes; All places connected with the above mentioned professions.
It is supposed to be a Rajasic nakshatra. Purvaphalguni is very engrossed on the material plane. Its planetary ruler Venus is supposed to be the most rajasic among planets. It represents the «desire» aspect of nature, which breeds life and makes the whole process of living exciting and delightful.
It belongs to the Water element. Purvaphalguni's connection with Venus, a watery planet, would account for this classification. Water breeds life (it is clear that all sentient life began in the oceans), and Purvaphalguni is representative of the creative potential in nature. Even sperm are carried by a watery fluid known as semen and the mating of sperm with the ova takes place in a watery medium.
It is considered a Manusnaor human nakshatra. Purvaphalguni's strong involvement with society, human relationships and procreation make it very concerned with what can be termed as human affairs. It is one of the nakshatras dedicated to sustaining the drama of life.
It is an Upward nakshatra. Purvaphalguni fosters any kind of growth. The seed may lie beneath the ground, but the plant grows upwards. Purvaphalguni is intimately connected with the biological process of cell division, which is responsible for making a tree out of a seed, or a baby out of a sperm. Purvaphalguni natives always look upwards towards the sky, the gods and the creator for its inspiration and answers.
It is an Ugra or fierce nakshatra. It comes as a surprise that a soft, pleasure loving and comfort seeking nakshatra should have a fierce temperament. This relates to Purvaphalguni's tendency to get overtly disgusted when it does not get what it wants. As we have discussed earlier, Purvaphalguni natives are prepared to go to any lengths in order to secure the luxury and comfort which they think is their right. Disturbing Purvaphalguni's comfort zone is akin to disturbing a sleeping lion.
It relates to the first half of the lunar month of Phalguna, which usually falls in late February in the solar calendar.
Purva Phalguni is also related to the Trayodashi (13th tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Marriage, sex, romance; Good for dealing with authorities and all kinds of persuasion; A good nakshatra for clearing out the air in relation to long standing disputes; Good for confronting enemies in a gentle appeasing way; Rest, relaxation and enjoyment; Artistic activities like painting, singing etc.; Good for using charisma or personal power for gaining wanted ends; Good for buying property; Matters relating to property and construction in general.
Unfavourable for all activities which require lessening down of ego; Not good for starting new things; Not good for intellectual activities; Not good for healing or curing diseases; Illnesses which start at this time are hard to overcome.
Sun and Venus are the two planets related to this nakshatra, Venus being its main planetary ruler. Venus's involvement with this nakshatra is obvious from the fact that the main functioning of Purvaphalguni is procreation. Venus relates to the force which produces attraction between the opposite sexes and the main focus of Purvaphalguni centres around this attraction. Sun, however, is connected with one's sense of self and is not very comfortable with the idea of losing one's self to another, something which Venus naturally stands for. Purvaphalguni is a battleground for the conflict between ego, love and harmony. It helps to know that the Venusian energy is stronger in comparision to Solar energy here (in Krittika it was the opposite way round).
The fact that Sun and Venus are natural enemies makes Purvaphalguni a volatile and turbulent nakshatra. The decision to be made here is how much of the self should be sacrificed in order for love and harmony to find their rightful place. Creativity is the only common meeting point between Sun and Venus. This is the reason why Purvaphalguni is able to be creative and constructive despite a plethora of inner rages and tumults.
Sun/Venus conjunction or exchange in a horoscope carries energies similar to Purvaphalguni. Sun, Mars and Venus usually give strong results here but as always a lot depends on the pada they occupy.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Mo» as in Mohicans.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Та» as in Taina.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to 'Tee» as in Tina.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to 'Too» as in Tooth.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Purvaphalguni corresponds to «Cha», consequently its mantra is «Om Cham».
Its sexual animal is a Rat, thus its sexual nature is similar to that of Magha, the previous nakshatra. As discussed earlier, rats are highly reproductive animals and produce scores of progeny. They are always busy scurrying around, which makes Purvaphalguni quite indefatigable when it comes to sexual or creative activity. Purvaphalguni is most compatible with the other rat nakshatra, Magna.
Purvaphalguni relates to the masculine creative spark which touches upon the passive feminine principle and puts it into creative motion. The feminine principle in nature is by itself passive (the quality which makes Purvaphalguni lazy), and needs an external force to set it alight. The Moon, which represents the feminine principle among planets, also needs a male source in form of the Sun in order to function.
All the Puranicstories relating to Shiva's phallus and the reasons why Shiva is worshipped in the phallic form relate to Purvaphalguni's functioning.
In a famous story, the seven sages living in a Himalayan pine forest in Krita Yuga (the golden age) are tormented by Shiva who visits their hermitage in a wild, naked form and all the womenfolk get seduced by his erect hanging phallus. The sages in their puritanical narrowmindedness curse that Shiva's phallus should fall off. Shiva respects their wishes and lets his phallus get castrated. As soon as this happens the whole balance of the universe gets unsettled. Brahma intervenes and asks the sages to worship the Linga (phallus) they had castrated in their moment of foolishness. Shiva pleased by their devotion and worship takes on his Linga again and thus universal balance is restored.
Even in the present age, Shiva is still primarily worshipped in a Linga form to make sure that puritanical ism never steps over the male primeval regenerative principle represented by the Linga. Amongst the nakshatras, Purvaphalguni and Uttaraphalgunirelate to this important aspect of universal functioning.
Purvaphalguni relates to the Bhakti path where the devotee likes to see the supreme governing entity as «the Beloved». The lives of bhakti saint figures like Surdasand Meera, who saw Krishna as a playmate and beloved respectively, illustrate Purvaphalguni's way of encountering the eternal divinity.
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Atri, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «one who consumes». As we have discussed in Rohini, the sage Atri seems to have two opposing tendencies, creative and dissoluting. Along with Rohini, Purvaphalguni relates to the creative aspect of this sage.