Jyeshta, the seniormost among the first eighteen asterisms, consists of 'three stars in a row', which were seen by the ancients as forming a shape similar to an ear-ring (or in some cases the top of an umbrella). These three stars are known in modern astronomy as Alpha-Scorpionis (Antares), Sigma-Scorpionisamu Tau-Scorpionis. All of these stars lie in the middle to end portion of the zodiacal constellation of Scorpio. Antares, the star with a reddish hue, is the brightest among these stars with a visual magnitude of 1.07 and was revered by all ancient cultures. It is in fact one of the brightest objects in the night sky, which makes it easy for one to spot this asterism in the night sky.
«Jyeshta» translates simply into the «Eldest» or «Seniormost». As is the case with some other asterisms, Jyeshta's name immediately reveals a lot about its nature and functioning. Jyeshta is considered the eldest among the first eighteen nakshatras. At some point of time in ancient history, only eighteen nakshatras were in use and Jyeshta was the final, the senior most or eldest nakshatra. Since then more nakshatras have been added, but the name has stayed.
Its main symbol is a 'round talisman'. In all the ancient civilizations and legends, one can see that a round talisman is seen as a symbol of divine protection. In many cases, one will find that it is also a symbol of an authoritarian position.
A circular earring is also a sort of round talisman and all the kings of the past were expected to wear big, round earrings. Thus an 'earring' can also be seen as a symbol of this nakshatra.
A round talisman, ring or earring are all considered to be related to the governing forces of the universe. As all wise men have known throughout the ages, everything in nature happens in circles. In ancient times, me king was supposed to be the person who is representative of the higher governing forces on earth. The fact that he used this circle symbolism showed that he was connected to these forces.
One can automatically infer that this nakshatra relates to all those in authority positions. This authority is usually conferred on one for their relative proximity to the governing universal forces. This may be the result of repeated past life efforts in the fields of karma, occult practices and penance.
The most important example of a circular occult symbol is the Ouroboros, a coiled snake swallowing its tail. The serpent symbolism relates to Rahu and Ketu and the kundalini shakti.
An 'umbrella' is an alternative symbol of this nakshatra. The most basic function of an umbrella is to protect one from rain, sun or wind i.e. nature's forces. In the same way this nakshatra is supposed to provide protection against the universal forces. This is the reason why all kings and queens in olden days never went out without an umbrella on top of their head. It was the most visible royal insignia.
This protection usually comes about through a detailed understanding of the occult knowledge of Universal functions. In a way, the priestly class was the protective shield for a king. In today's day and age where most of the masses are totally ignorant of the occult and have little knowledge of Universal functionings, the truly protective aspect of this nakshatra is rarely seen. However the politicians and the ruling class of today do take the aid of occult practices in secret (away from public view), to protect their power and position.
Indra, the scion of the Gods, is the main governing deity of this nakshatra. It is important to mention here that Indra is just a post, which different souls occupy at different times. A soul who has done enough penance is put on this post. In the same way Jyeshta has the capacity to bestow an authority position here on earth as a result of past life efforts.
The word «Indra» translates into «a celestial drop». This meaning can be looked at in different ways. Indra, even though he is a king of the gods, is a mere drop as far as the universe is concerned, On the other hand, we can see that this meaning relates well to the fact that Indra was regarded as the rain god in most of the ancient cultures.
Around five thousand years ago, Indra was the most worshipped among all the deities. The Vedas, especially the earlier ones, are full of remarks about his splendour and glory. His worship survived even up to a period around 500 В. C, as can be inferred from the fact that the Greeks worshipped a thunder god known as Thor». This thunder god was supposed to wield a thunder bolt in much the same way as indra, who is always portrayed with a thunder bolt in his hand.
Rain was important to all civilizations because agriculture was directly equated with prosperity. It is no wonder then, that this nakshatra is related to prosperity on the material plane of existence. In a way this nakshatra also conveys a certain strong concern for prosperity, in much the same way as people in the olden days eagerly awaited the rains to fall. When the rainfall is irregular, it can destroy agriculture rather than support it. This brings out the fact that this nakshatra can, at many times, bring about depravity and hard times instead of prosperity. This can also be seen from the fact that when the rulers of a nation are corrupt and greedy, its subjects will encounter adversity.
With the invention of new technologies, the dependence of agriculture on rain diminished and so did the worship of Indra. Krishna can be said to be the first one who turned the common people away from the worship of Indra. He encouraged them to establish direct communication with the forces of nature instead. After all Indra's power only relies on his connection with these forces, Even today, the ruling elite go to great lengths to maintain this connection, while the common people toil away mindlessly.
Indra comes out as a rumbustious, proud, vain, tricky and unreliable character in most of the puranic stories, Most of the elements of his nature are conveyed through this nakshatra. In this way Jyeshta is very similar to vishakha, the other nakshatra ruled by Indra. Jyeshta, however, is much more controlled, secretive and deliberating in comparison to Vishakha. One can say that Jyeshta functions in a positive or negative way depending on who the Indra is at any given point in time. In a birthchart however, an afflicted Jyeshta will tend to bring out the negative qualities like depravation, misuse of power and authority, unnecessary vainity etc.; while a well fortified Jyeshta will bring about prosperity, genuine concern and protecbveness towards others.
One peculiarity of Jyeshta is that it gives prosperity only through some occult, supernatural or extraordinary means. This arises from the fact that Indra always gets his position and power through penance and other occult activities. He even got his thunderbolt through the occult propitiation of a sage called Dadhichi. Interested readers can refer to «Amar China Kama» comics for puranic stories related to Indra.
«A sense of arriving or becoming» characterizes Jyeshta. Jyeshta completes the second series of nine nakshatras beginning from, Magha. This series is mostly to do with involvement in worldly activities on the earthly plane.
Jyeshta is a nakshatra where keeping up an image is more important than anything else. Jyeshta natives usually do everything from a point of view which cares a great deal about how others are perceiving them. They want to gain respect in society and do whatever is necessary to adhere to the prevailing standards. In ancient times when real acts of charity, kindness and philanthropy were the stepping stones to a respectful position, Jyeshta functioned well. In the present day and age where excessive headless materialism is the standard, Jyeshta energy gets channelled in useless, self-destructive ways. The stereotypical mob leaders, corrupt and unwise politicans, beaurocrats and managers are all Jyeshta characters.
Natives with Jyeshta rising or having strong Jyeshta influence connected to the Ascendant, usually mature very quickly both physically and mentally. They have well proportioned bodies but are not able to hold onto their youth for long. Their upper body is usually stronger than their lower body. The easiest way to spot them is to pay attention to their penetrating and probing eyes.
Jyeshta natives are apt to magnify their troubles and woes. There is no beating Jyeshta when it comes to unnecessary, exaggerated moaning and groaning. The continent of Africa is under strong influence of Jyeshta energy. It is no wonder then that the «Blues'' as a musical art form, came from this continent.
A revengeful and vindictive tendency is often noticed in Jyeshta natives. They also fall prey to jealousy very easily and are always on the lookout to put others down. A strong competitive spirit rather than an internal direction is what makes them manifest the full extent of their abilities.
The goodness of Jyeshta natives lies in their ability to be protective towards the weak, subordinate, helpless and underprivileged. They can purge themselves headlong into danger in order to protect others. Besides sticking to their word, they have a responsible attitude to the affairs that fall under their domain. However at times they can also carry their sense of responsibility and protectiveness to extremes. In today's day and age, most of Jyeshta's functioning is confined to the military, police and similar Martian pursuits. Since all these forces are guided and controlled by a dark elite there is no real sense in zealously identifying oneself with these branches.
Jyeshta Is considered to be an Active nakshatra. Once again, we will take help from the policing profession to fathom Jyeshta's active nature. Being a policeman, one is expected to be ready and alert 24 hours a day as they can be called anytime for duty. It is a profession which involves constant vigil, activity and responsibility. It is noticed that Jyeshta types usually get depressed when their circumstances don't allow for constant activity of some kind.
It belongs to the Servant caste. The servant caste was seen by the ancient seers as being involved in different forms of servitude. It is hard to understand why the supposed eldest among the first eighteen nakshatras should be relegated to servitude. The only reason we can think of is that Jyeshta is not skilled in any particular art, trade or profession. It is like Indra, whose activities can't be categorised under any of the four main castes Brahmin, Kshatriya, vaishya and Shudra. Indra is neither a priest, nor a soldier, nor a businessman and he is no manual labourer either. We have already seen that Jyeshta types always end up in service professions like police officers, etc.
It is a Female nakshatra. Jyeshta is often portrayed as the eldest and seniormost queen. Even Indra as a character seems to have predominantly feminine attitudes and attributes. The old, seasoned, jealous, stern and lonely queen archetype fits Jyeshta like a glove.
The neck and right side of the torso are the body parts related to this nakshatra. In a lot of ancient cultures, the eldest queen was supposed to have the most elaborate neck ornamentation to signify her seniormost status. Even today in some parts of Africa, huge necklings are used for signifying status. In some cases the necks are elongated by using larger and larger size necklings.
It is a primarily «Vata» (airy) nakshatra. This again must relate to its relationship with Mercury, a primarily vata planet. Jyeshta, as we have seen, belongs to the air element. Its classification under the Vata humor re-emphasizes its airy aspect.
It is related primarily to north and south.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Sagittarius Navamsa ruled by Jupiter. The emphasis here is on family concerns and interests. This pada is very concerned about financial affairs even though its prosperity in that area will swing from one extreme to the other. The lesson here is to take a more easy going attitude in regards to finances. A certain enthusiasm towards acquiring higher knowledge is noticeable here. The normally secretive Jyeshta tends to leak out secrets through Sagittarian carefreeness and frankness. The native is a risk taker. Generosity is more prominent in this pada in comparision to other Jyeshta padas. The native is chivalrous in terms of being protective towards kith and kin. Planets here have a sense of humour. Sun, Mars, Jupiter and Ketu are strong here and Jupiter tends to give the best results. Planets placed in this pada adversely effect the wellbeing of one's siblings.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Capricorn Navamsa ruled by Saturn. This pada is very rigid in regards to responsibility and doing the right thing. Natives here are fiercely protective and like to challenge others. This pada produces authority type figures. This pada can be selfish, stingy, materialistic and vengeful. The native is ruthless in regards to getting back at others. A strong sense of maturity is seen in the physical and mental make-up of the native from an early age. The native has an authoritative speaking voice. This pada is very serious and overbearing and will tend to take its time to achieve its goals. The native usually only achieves their goals late in life after much hardwork, perseverance and penance. Natives are cautious, slow and stern. They need to watch a tendency towards too much skepticism, melancholy and negative attitudes in general. Mars and Saturn are strong here in the sense that they give some sort of position of authority. Planets placed in this pada adversely effect the wellbeing of younger siblings.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aquarius Navamsa ruled by Saturn. This pada gives a strong humanitarian instinct and allows the native to play roles which are beneficial or protective towards society. The native works best in professions which involve protecting the underdog or underprivileged. They like serving causes. The native can be very sacrificing when it comes to protecting others. This pada gives a love for researching science or mysticism. The native has their own peculiar brand of family values. The native enjoys espousing their personal philosophy to others. The native gets caught up in bizarre sexual encounters. Saturn, Mercury, Venus and Rahu are strong in this pada. Planets placed in this pada adversely effect the wellbeing of one's mother.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Pisces Navamsa ruled by Jupiter. This is a very emotional pada and the native is inclined to get carried away. The native can simply drown themselves. There is a danger of too much indulgence in fantasy, sexual intrigue and intoxication. The native may be able to channel their emotions into creative expression. The native carries their sense of responsibility and protectiveness to an extreme at times. In its lowest aspect, natives are apt to fantasize about their woes and troubles in life in an unhealthy way. In its highest aspect, this pada can give a strong sacrificing nature and a spiritual devotion to humanity. The native will be fond of children. The native will defend the rights of others and take an interest in occult exploration for liberation purposes. The only downfall is that the penance aspect which is so necessary for Jyestha's proper functioning is difficult to harness in this pada. However Jyestha's capacity for material gain is stronger in this pada and its poverty aspect is decreased. This is true when strong benefics like Venus and Jupiter are placed here. Mars functions poorly in this pada, however Saturn, although giving material adversity, may be helpful in acquiring some sort of spiritual discipline. This pada tends to be the most self destructive, when working through its negative aspect.
All Policing Professions; Government Officials; Administrative Posts of all types; Reporters; Radio and Television Commentators; Newsreaders; Talk Show Hosts; Actors; Orators; Firemen; Trade Unionists; Occultists (mainly Black Magicians); Detectives; Mafia; Politicans; Beaurocrats; Naval Professions; Forest Rangers; Military Professions in general; Salvation Army and other such 'Caring for the Aged' professions; Manual Labourers; Athletes, especially Sprinters; Telecommunication Industry related professions; Air Traffic Controllers and Radar Experts; Surgeons.
Hilly Inaccessible Terrain; Hot Tropical Jungles; Government Buildings; All places related to Telecommunications and Media in general; Airports; Hospitals; Military Bases; Capital Cities; Manors, Forts and Palaces; Old-Age Homes; All places connected with above-mentioned professions.
It is supposed to be a Sattvic nakshatra. This classification mainly relates to its elderly and protective aspect. As we have discussed earlier, Jyeshta is reverential towards its elders (or those more powerful than itself) and is protective towards its juniors or subordinates. Jyeshta is also sattwic in the sense that it is ready to sacrifice a lot of pleasures and enjoyments for the sake of its duties and commitments.
It belongs to the Air element. This relates to Mercury's strong association with Jyeshta. Behind its fixed and stern Mars exterior, Jyeshta is pretty light, floaty and airy in disposition. Jyeshta hankers for freedom and movement (which are natural qualities of the air element) but is usually constrained by its outer image, responsibilities or circumstances. For example, a police officer may like to join the crowd in a rock concert but he cannot do it because of his job and position.
It is considered a Rakshasa or Demonic nakshatra. It is a surprise to find that the nakshatra whose ruling deity is king of the gods, is classified thus. A good look at stories and legends attached with Indra reveal that Indra at times surpasses the demons themselves, as far as demonic or unrighteous actions are concerned. Jyeshta's sense of right ano wrong can get quite flawed because of its primarily selfish and self centred disposition.
It is a Level nakshatra. Jyeshta's tendency to 'get even' is the first thing which comes up in regards to this classification. Jyeshta is always concerned with fair play, justice, balancing events and people. A policeman pursuing a murderer is in essence fuelled by Jyeshta's basic nature to get even. This 'getting even' tendency is found in gangster mentalities like the Mafia. The heads, dons or elders of Mafias are always playing the endless game of 'getting even' with each other.
It is a Hard, Sharp and Dreadful nakshatra. Just like the planet Mars, Jyeshta is not averse to activities requiring the above mentioned qualities. Jyeshta carries within itself most of the keywords associated with the sign Scorpio — hardness, coldness, focus, torture, punishment, attacking, arduousness and biting. Jyeshta represents the hard, stony and ferocious side of the sign Scorpio. Its brutality is well exemplified today by the police departments and the heads of organizations, corporations and institutions all around the world.
It relates to the first half of the lunar month of Jyaishtha. This usually corresponds to late May/ early June in the solar calendar.
Jyeshta is also related to the Saptami and Chaturdashi (7th and 14th tithis or days) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Harsh activities; Plotting; Spying; Scheming; Passing judgements; Getting even; Putting one's foot down over important issues; Taking control; Expressing one's authoritative nature out of a sense of caring; Administrative activities; Policing or monitoring situations; Occult activities; Acting responsibly; Acts of concern, care or protection; Associating with elders, especially giving assistance to the elderly; Taking care of family matters; Occult activities requiring a lot of penance; Holding discussions over serious issues; Grand planning; Acting restrained out of consideration for others; Setting disciplines for oneself.
Wallowing in depression and resentment or having a hard done by attitude; Infidelity; Acts of selfishness or self-centricity; Taking advantage of others; Marriage; Healing; Too much rest or recreational activity; Any dealings which require a lot of tact, sensitivity and gentleness; Not good for travelling.
Mercury is the main planetary ruler of this nakshatra. Mercurial energy refines itself from its deceptive, cunning, childlike beginnings to a more serious energy, which tries to control the scattered functionings of the mind. Considering that Moon represents the mass mentality. Mercury's functioning here is directed to controlling that energy. It is no wonder then that Jyeshta natives feel like the police of the world.
Mars, the ruler of Scorpio, of course supports this policing mentality and provides the energy and initiative required for it. The Mercury-Mars combination can turn self-serving very quickly as the martian energy afflicts the perceptive and discriminative part of mercurial energy. Much of the deceit and misuse of power inherent in this nakshatra can be understood from the many tales about the unruly, boisterous behaviour of its ruling deity Indra, the scion of the demigods. Mercury makes Jyeshta a sort of a chameleon, whose values are not based upon any real understanding of things, but are dependent upon its surroundings.
Pluto and Ketu, being co-rulers of Scorpio along with Mars, also convey a part of Jyestha's energy in the form of self-destructive tendencies, outer and inner transformation, emotional upheaval and penance.
Mercury-Mars and Mercury-Mars-Ketu conjunctions in a chart, carry similar energies to Jyeshta. In the present day and age, most planets placed here need to be watched very carefully by the astrologer as they usually work against the native's peace of mind. Only a well placed Mercury can give good results here.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «No» as in Nora.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Ya» as in Yani.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Yi» as in Yeast.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Yu» as in Yul.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Jyeshta corresponds to «Dha» and consequently its mantra is «Om Dham».
Its sexual animal is a Stag. A stag is an aggressive sexual animal, as compared to a deer, which is the sexual animal for the previous nakshatra Anuradha. Jyeshta is supposed to have a cold, yet aggressively, passionate response towards lovemaking and likes to dominate the proceedings. It is not considered a very virile nakshatra even though it can get obsessive about sexuality.
Being the 18th nakshatra, Jyeshta reflects the meaning associated with the number 48'. It is considered the culmination of Lunar energy. The tarot image associated with the 18th card, appropriately called «The Moon», depicts a night-time scene with two dogs howling at two towers, which form a gateway to a mysterious region beyond. A full moon hangs above on the horizon, while a crayfish is attempting to crawl out of a small pool in front. This predominantly dark imagery relates to a final confrontation with the hidden workings of the subconscious.
It is Jyeshta's task to constantly confront the mysteries, fears, illusions and pitfalls of the dark realms of the left hand side of nature. Jyeshta has to bring order into the scheme of things through the right use of the elemental forces. The catch here lies in knowing when to let nature take its course and when to interfere. Indra, along with the other elemental gods like Agnl (fire deity) and Varuna (water deity), is always trying to keep the balance in terrestrial affairs through confronting the dark demonic forces, who are repeatedly trying to disrupt nature's funtionings. The danger here lies in folly, which arises out of an improper understanding of the Universal functionings. This is the point where the next nakshatra, Mula, takes over and tries to gain a root understanding of Universal functionings.