Hasta consists of five prominent easily visible stars of the constellation known as Corvi{the Crow), which lies below the constellation of Virgo. These five stars, whose grouping was seen by the ancient Vedic seers as resembling the top of a hand (five fingertips), are known in modern astronomy as Alpha-Corvi (Alchiba), Beta-Corvi, Delta-Corvi (Algorab), Gamma-Conn (Gienah) and Epsiton-Corvi. Beta-Corvi is the brightest among these stars with a visual magnitude of 2.66. The constellation representing this asterism Corvi can be located in the night sky below the constellation Virgo to the right hand side of the zodiacal belt. It lies very close to the right hand side of Spica, one of the brightest stars and can thus be easily spotted despite its relative faintness.
Hasta's main translation is «the hand». As we shall find in the course of this section, this seemingly general and inconsequential name conveys a major part of this asterism's nature, activities and approach.
Its alternative translation is «laughter». The root «Has» in Sanskrit means «to laugh». The ancient seers must have picked this name as a pun on a nakshatra most closely associated with pun. Its alternative names «Bhanu» and «Ark» translate into «Sun» and «Sun's Ray» respectively. The association of Hasta with Sun and the solar principle will become clear as we discuss its symbols and ruling deity.
Hasta has three main symbols. One symbol is «a hand with all five fingers spread-eagled». Through this symbol, the ancient seers are trying to emphasize Hasta's relation with fate. One can see all the lines in the palm when a hand is spread out. These lines in the palm as we know, relate to our destiny in the present life. Hasta is closely connected to the art of palmistry and by extrapolation, Astrology. The hand also simply relates to all activities done with the use of the hands. This will be expanded upon later. In ancient times the outstretched hand was a symbol of the Sun, with the fingers representing its rays. The relationship of this nakshatra with the Sun is established through its ruling deity.
The second symbol is «a clenched fist», which exemplifies secrecy and determination. Hasta, as we shall discover, is related to all kinds of activities like trickery, deceit and manipulation involving the use of the above two qualities. The clenched fist in Its negative aspect represents greed, ambition and an inability to let go of things. In its positive aspect, it represents strength which is derived through unity and harmonious working of parts.
Hasta is the nakshatra most closely associated with cooperation in order to achieve the intended goal. This cooperation however has very little to do with friendship, as there is a distinct lack of trust in all Hasta bondings. It is no wonder that shaking hands is the most commonly used act for bonding in the modern times. This immediately reflects the modern world's obssession with cooperation without trust.
The third and more rarely used symbol of Hasta is «a potter's wheel». A potter's wheel has its obvious association with pottery making and all types of handicrafts in general. On an esoteric level the potter's wheel symbolizes the passage of time. Hasta is often very concerned about the proper utilization of time. It is very prone to go to extremes in relation to this issue and turn life into a clock. It is obssessed with time keeping, punctuality, repetition and other such robotic traits usually associated with the sign Virgo.
Just like the previous two nakshatras, a solar deity presides over Hasta. This solar deity is named «Savitar». His name has two translations — «the impeller» and «the first rays of the rising Sun».
As an «impeller», Savitar is seen as a god who gives life. Hasta is therefore known as a nakshatra which aids childbirth. The «first rays of the rising Sun» represent the awakening potential of Hasta in all ancient cultures and civilizations. The first rays of sunrise were a signal for all people to begin their day's activities, its function being similar to an alarm clock today. We can thus infer that Hasta has all to do with the terms activity and alertness. Hasta is the proverbial 'wake up call', a term which should be read from both a material and spiritual perspective.
Savitar has a jovial, lighthearted type of persona. He is always portrayed with a laughing gesture. He is a playful deity into all kinds of tricks, amusements and games. This makes Hasta interested in all kinds of sports on all planes of existence. On the terrestrial earthly plane, Hasta relates to both mind games and physical sports.
Savitar is supposed to be extremely skilled with his hands. This makes Hasta directly associated with everything done with the hands. The reasoning behind the naming of Hasta should now be clear to us. Savitar is also considered to be a crafty trickster, taking pleasure in lying, gambling and fraud. These qualities don't seem like the kind which one would associate with a solar deity but the truth is that even the planet Sun has this cunning, crafty side to its nature, which is more often than not overlooked by astrologers. In the ancient times all kings (represented by Sun) were supposed to be well versed in the arts of lying, deceit, fraud, gambling and robbery.
Savitar is almost mercurial in his approach, which does not come as a surprise since all of this nakshatra falls in Virgo, a sign ruled by Mercury. Savitar can be seen as a deity who fuses the energies of Sun and Mercury. His qualities are very similar to those ascribed to the Budha-ditya yoga (Sun/Mercury conjunction in a sign or house). Again the reader can refer to «Sun-The Cosmic Powerhouse» for more information on this yoga.
In a way the nature and functioning of Savitar is akin to a bright sunny day where everyone is feeling good and are involved in creative activities of all kinds. This is what makes Hasta one of the most optimistic and creative nakshatras.
Common english words tike «hand», «handy», «haste», «hassle», «haggle», «have», «hard», «harness», «hack», «harvest» — seem to have the same root as the word «Hasta». Their meanings relate to Hasta's functioning at some level or the other. The well known greeting «Hasta Man/ana» sheds light on Hasta's jovial and easy going approach and its relationship with all kinds of endings.
Hasta follows Uttaraphalguni, the nakshatra in which a family is established. After the establishment of a family, issues like continuity and sustenance crop up. There are little and big things to be done on a regular basis to keep the household going. Hasta relates to all the little activities which make civilized living possible. It is no surprise that Hasta natives are the handymen of the zodiac. They also make excellent householders. Even though they take their work seriously, there is always some internal lightheartedness underneath. They are very good at carrying plain faces and stem exteriors. Even the comedians which use this nakshatras energies, bring out humour through deadpan, straight, serious facial expressions.
When Hasta rises on the Ascendant it produces highly flexible and supple bodies capable of handling a variety of manual jobs. They often have some type of acrobatic skill. They have small eyes and roundish faces. They have mischievous smiles and like to squint a lot. They love to laugh and play the joker. They have quick, sharp minds which constantly process whatever they observe. They like to think along practical lines and have a tendency to look down upon romantically bohemian attitudes. Theirs is a world of classification, order and arrangement. Hasta natives have a tendency for overwork arising from an inability to sit still. They can get obssessive about keeping themselves busy, a trait which makes them invent unnecessary tasks or complicate relatively simple tasks. No other nakshatra comes close to Hasta when it comes to an eye for detail. They work at things painstakingly and expect others to do the same. They can be extremely critical when their high standards are not met. Hasta usually gives some sort of tension with progeny if related to the fifth house in any way.
In the universal scheme of things, Hasta relates to «hasta sthapaniya agama shakti» — the power to put one's object of desire in one's hands. Its symbolism has attainment of the object above and the process of attainment below. The symbolism makes it clear beyond words that Hasta promises immediate acquirement of one's object of desire through one's skill.
Hasta is a Passive nakshatra. This comes as a surprise but this can be understood in terms of its planetary ruler Moon. Moon has a strong, passive and receptive side to its nature, which is more on display in Hasta rather than Moon's other nakshatra, Rohini. Hasta's passivity can be seen through the following example character:
«Hasta can be a timid, shy pottery maker who just spends all his time making pottery items without any desire for extraordinary gains. He gets paid much less than he deserves by cheating businessmen (another type of Hasta character). He never raises a voice against the injustice and accepts his fate of poverty and hard work lying down.»
It belongs to the Vaishya (merchant/business) caste. This comes as no surprise because Hasta is predominantly associated with production, buying and selling of goods. It can be said that Hasta has the most business like approach to life in comparison with all other nakshatras. In the present day and age where business and commerce rules everything else, Hasta has a dominant role. However since corruption, deceit and greed form the back bone of most business in today's world, only the negative side of Hasta is on display. All of the big, multinational corporations and the ruling business elite are nothing but petty thieves and swindlers.
It is a Male nakshatra. This classification is directly derived from its ruling deity. We have already seen that this is a predominantly salar nakshatra and thus has to have a male essence.
Hands are the body parts related to this nakshatra.
It is a primarily «Vata» (airy) nakshatra. This is clear from the fact that all of this nakshatra lies in a predominantly vata sign, Virgo. One can also infer that Hasta derives its quick, light, agile and humourous disposition from its airy humor.
It is related primarily to east, south, north and northwest.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aries Navamsa and is ruled by Mars. This pada gives abundant energy and makes one an expert at underhanded activities. Mathematical, Military and Surgical skills are enhanced here. A well placed Mars or Sun are strongest in this pada.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Taurus Navamsa ruled by Venus. The emphasis here is on down to earth practicality. Planets here seek material arrangement and perfection as tfojar dharma. Honesty and morality are more developed here in comparison to other padas. This pada supports artistic activities. A well placed Mercury, Venus and Saturn give good results here.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Gemini Navamsa ruled by Mercury. This is the pada of the merchant, trader and business person. Emphasis here is on career. This is the most dexterous and clever amongst Hasta's padas. Well placed Mercury here gives extraordinary perception and intelligence.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Cancer Navamsa ruled by Moon. The focus here is on family life and communal co-existence. This pada promises material security but at the same time promotes suspicion towards anything foreign. The best and worst of Hasta manifests through this pada. Only a well placed Jupiter gives strong results here especially in regards to having good progeny.
Artisans; Manual Labourers; All professions requiring dexterity of hand; Mechanics; Jewellery makers; Origami Experts; Acrobats, Gymnasts and Circus performers; Fairy Tale Writers; Those involved in the invention and production of daily utility items; Inventors in general; Publishing and Printing Industry; Stage Magicians; Swindlers; Pickpockets; Stock Brokers; Packaging Industry; Paper Industry; Manicurists; All people working in share and stock markets; Casino dealers; Toy Makers; Carpenters; Professional Gamblers; Bookies; Small Shop Owners, Market Sellers, Small Scale Trade Persons, and Business men in all fields; Clerks; Bankers; Accountants; Typists; Cleaners; Housekeepers; Servants; Masseurs; Doctors; Physiotherapists; Chemical and Toiletry Industry; Textile industry; Tarot Card Readers; Palmists; Psychics; Astrologers; Auctioneers; Pottery and Ceramic industry; Interior decorators; Gardeners; Farmers and Agriculturalists; All professions connected with Food Production, Processing and Distribution Industry; Barbers, Hairdressers and Stylists; Sculptors; Masons; Those connected wjth Amusement Parks; Sales Persons in all fields; Professional Comedians; Satirical Novelists; Radio and Television Commentators; Speech Therapists; Newsreaders; Martial Artists; Forgers; Thieves; Robbers dealing with opening safes; All street smart professions in general.
Agricultural Fields; Grazing Pastures; Home Gardens; Art and Craft Studios; Marketplace; Stock Exchange (Wall Street etc.); Casinos; Betting Shops; Amusement parks; Fairgrounds; Factories; In general, places connected with the above professions.
It is supposed to be a Rajasic nakshatra. Hasta's immense immersion in worldly activities makes it a predominantly rajasic nakshatra. As we have mentioned repeatedly, it is a nakshatra very active on a material plane.
It belongs to the Fire element. This classification definitely relates to its association with Sun. Its fire energy manifests itself as innovation, quick thinking and an energetic approach to things.
It is considered a Deva or godly nakshatra. Hasta's ruling deity Savitar is seen as a primarily benevolent deity. Hasta's divine quality can be judged from the fact that it never harbours any strong negative or cruel tendencies.
It is a Level nakshatra. This has to do with the business aspect of Hasta. Most level nakshatras are supposed to be good for business of all kinds. They are also good for patching things up, an activity which Hasta greatly enjoys.
As mentioned previously, it is a Light and Swift nakshatra. This classification can be easily derived from its humourous, lighthearted nature. We have also seen that Hasta is associated with quickness in thought and action.
It relates to the first 9 days of the lunar month of Chaitra, which usually falls in late March.
Hasta is also related to the Dvadashi (12th tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the moon's monthly cycle.
Good for most activities done under the Sun; Arts and Crafts; Activities that stimulate laughter; All types of hobbies especially things like pottery and jewellery making; Planting seeds and Gardening in general; Domestic Work; Studying sciences and Astrology; Learning Languages; All activities requiring handskills and repetition; Magic Tricks; Playing games; All business activities requiring tact and shrewdness; Good for marriage; Buying and Selling, especially items like grains, textiles etc.; Good for getting a good bargain; Dealing with children; Thievery; Holistic treatments of diseases; Travel and Change of Residence.
Planning longterm goals and objectives; Sexual Activity; Does not support Relaxation or Inactivity; Unfavourable for all activities requiring executive ability and maturity; Not good for most nighttime activities.
The main planetary influences affecting this nakshatra are Moon and Mercury. Moon is the main ruling planet of Hasta. Moon imparts emotions, care and sensitivity to this nakshatra. It is this lunar influence which makes Hasta a doyen of home and family life. When working through its lower functioning, all the negative aspects of lunar energy like ultra conservatism, bigotry, fickleness, excessive attachment and inability to let go takes centre stage. However unlike Cancer, the lunar nature here is under supervision of Mercury, the planet of discrimination. Mercury's influence makes Hasta jovial and lighthearted thus saving it from the type of depression people with prominent Cancer placements go through. Hasta's discriminatory power also allows it to navigate its way through the waters of life more efficiently as compared to its nakshatra's counterpart in Cancer, Ashlesha.
Ashlesha and Hasta are the only two nakshatras where the energies of Moon and Mercury combine, the only difference being that Moon is the king in Ashlesha, while Mercury has the final say in Hasta. This means that intellect rules over the mind in Hasta, which is obviously the way universe prefers it. Moon can perceive but not derive conclusions, which is Mercury's doing. It is Mercury which guides the Moon while it is Moon which nurtures Mercury. Hasta is all about this interplay between Moon and Mercury.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Pu» as in Putin or Pure.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Sha» as in Shah or Sharon.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Nu» as in Nun.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Tu» as in Turtle.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Hasta corresponds to «Jha» and «Nya» consequently its mantras are «Om Jham» and «Om Nyam».
Its sexual animal is a Buffalo. Despite its dexterity and skill with hands and fingers, its sexual tendencies are usually not very refined. A lot of sexual exploitation takes place for making money under the energies of this nakshatra. It is however not prone to extreme sexual perversions like other cruel or fierce nakshatras. When it is working through its ascetic level, Hasta can be the most non-sexual amongst all nakshatras. Its sexual energies are most compatible with those of Swati.
Hasta is the handyman of the Universe and even esoteric things are nothing but exoteric when one truly understands the dictum — «As Above, So Below».
Hasta takes care of all the little things which keep the fourteen worlds running. «The divide between the devil and god is a matter of detail» sums up Hasta's approach on a macrocosmic level. Its painstaking efforts are however often overlooked on a personal as well as collective level, but such things don't bother it just like it doesn't bother Sun if its light is taken for granted.
Though this fact has not been brought up in any written text until now, Hasta has a connection with Rahu, the planet of Maya, magic and trickery. Hasta is partly the secret behind the deviously mischievous all-knowing smile on the face of Vishnu. Hasta is one of the few nakshatras which has the ability to see the whole of creation as a play and find enjoyment, merriment and laughter playing it the right way.
The legend of Virgin Mary, which obviously finds its parallels in all ancient cultures and civilizations, is all about the energies which come under Hasta's domain. Hasta is representative of the inner Sun which has the ability to hold, produce and foster the divine saviour (mainly incarnations of Vishnu). The term 'inner Sun' is used because Virgo is the sign of matter and the material world holds and hides the spiritual realm. Hasta therefore is the androgynous force which shapes the material world according to spiritual laws.
Being the 13th nakshatra, 13 is the number which Hasta relates to. It is common knowledge that 13 is a peculiar number associated with the occult, endings, death, regeneration etc. The concept of order and renewal inherent in Hasta can be understood best through its peculiar quality, which relates to the connections of events separated by time. For example, many things which happen to us in childhood are for a specific reason, which we only come to know about much later in life in our adulthood. For evolved souls, most events which happen in their childhood are silently building up a foundation and preparing for their purpose and destiny. It is usually very hard to understand the significance of these little, seemingly, meaningless, disconnected events until much later. It is within this phenomenon that the secret functioning of the number 13 and Hasta lies. The Book ofSolomon states emphatically — «The one who understands the number 13, shall have power and dominion».
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Puiahu, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «connector of space». We can imagine that connecting space must be quite a detailed oriented job. It is also interesting to note that it is time which is the connector of space. Hasta as we have seen is directly connected with the passage of time, through its potter wheel symbolism.