Purvashadha, the pinnacle of Venusian energy, is represented in the celestial firmament by three bright stars, known in modern astronomy as Epsilon-Sagittarii (Kaus Australis), Delta-Sagittarii (Kaus Media) and Epsilon-Sagittarii (Kaus Borealis). All of these stars lie in a line (with a slight deviation) in the middle portion of the constellation Sagittarius. These stars can be spotted easily, as they are located close to the Milky Way as it stretches like a white celestial river across the night sky. Kaus Australis, having a visual magnitude of 1.81, is the brightest among these stars. Ancient Vedic seers saw these stars as forming the shape of a hand held fan.
«Purvashadha» translates into «the Former Invincible One» or the «Former Unconquered». Its name, like its successor, concentrates on the bask; attribute of this asterism — invincibility.
The alternative name for Purvashadha is «Aparajita», which translates into «undefeated». We can see that this name goes along the same lines as the more commonly used name.
In congruence with the shape formed by its stars, a «hand held fan' is the most famous symbol of this asterism. A fan can have four uses: 1. As a decorative item popular in Japanese/Oriental cultures. 2. To cool oneself down in hot conditions. 3. To fan up a fire. 4. As a mask to hide oneself.
Its first use relates to the showy, glitzy and glamourous Venusian aspect of this nakshatra. In the ancient Orient, the type of fan one carried was directly related to social status. This conveys the superiority aspect of this nakshatra. It finds itself superior in comparison to all nakshatras before it, especially the earlier Venusian ones. The superiority of perfection achieved in the Venusian realm will however depend on the soul level of the native in question.
The second use corresponds to this nakshatra's ability to get through hard times. Fanning is essentially an act of aggression against heat. Thus this nakshatra is often associated with all kinds of aggressive activities. It is patient in adversity and aggressive whenever the opportunity arises.
The third use corresponds to this nakshatra's ability to keep a thing going. In its negative aspect this may manifest as exaggeration or over expansion. In its positive aspect it is an inspiring energy whichjcnows how to keep the fire burning. As a result it is a very expressive and expansive nakshatra.
The fourth use relates to this nakshatra's ability to conceal facts, informations, feelings, personality etc. It is in a way a shy and sensitive nakshatra, which likes to conceal its enthusiasm and bubbliness from the outside world as much as possible. Only after some initial reluctance and when it begins to gain confidence does it show its true colours.
A 'winnowing basket used for ridding grain of husks', is an alternative symbol, which more or less conveys the above mentioned meanings for a winnowing fan. This symbol brings out the aspect of this nakshatra related to uncovering hidden talents. This nakshatra is capable of shedding outer, unnecessary obstacles in order to bring out the useful part inside. This may relate to people, places or things.
An obscure goddess by the name of Apah is the ruling deity of this nakshatra. «Apah» translates into «water». Very little is known about this goddess, as the surviving vedic texts don't mention her name much. However, her obscurity makes sense, when seen in the light of the fact that this nakshatra has a mysterious, hiding, secretive and shy quality about it.
Apah can be equated with the ocean goddesses of other cultures like Aphrodites, Astartss etc. It is interesting to note the «Aph» similarity in the names «Apah» and «Aphrodites». They seem to share the same roots as the name of the original celestial ocean «Apas». Even Purvashadha's alternative name «Aparajita» seems to have been derived from the same root. «Ара» is still the name for water in many languages around the world and many of the ancients saw water as the invincible element.
«Apah» and «Aphrodites» are both Venusian goddess figurines and can be seen as the female counterparts of the male ocean deity «Varuna». Both of them can be seen as part reflections of Laxmi, the universal goddess of prosperity. Laxmi is the spouse of Vishnu, the overseer of the celestial waters which sustain our universe. The image of Vishnu and Laxmi sitting on a snake bed on top of the ocean of celestial waters is an image which is directly related to this nakshatra.
The 'churning of the ocean legend' in which various treasures came out, signify the productive potential of Apah as a goddess. Her negative side is reflected by the deadly poison that came out as a result of the churning. Apah relates to the churning which goes on inside each one of us and the good and bad things which come out as a result.
Her flambouyant, enticing, invincible approach is reflected in the nature and functionings of Purvashadha. Like all primordial forces, Apah, though benevolent, is often cruel and harsh in her ways, which again can be seen to hold true for those having a prominent Purvashadha personality. Her grand, all-inclusive, all-embracing vision is where Venus derives its higher qualities like real love and compassion from. Purvashadha is the pinnacle of Venusian energy and thus the real aim of this nakshatra is to. get to an all-encompassing level of awareness, at least from a Venusian point of view.
Apah is closely connected to the mythical sea creature now commonly known as mermaid. The qualities usually associated with mermaids like vain, alluring, sensitive, beautiful, mysterious, enticing, musical, freedom loving and adventurous can be applied to this nakshatra as well. It is interesting to note that Jim/Hendrix'a musician with Purvashadha rising on his Ascendant), wrote a song dedicated to mermaids titled «1983, A Merman I should turn to be». He also wrote lines like «Blue are the lifegiving waters taken for granted, they quietly understand.»
A Welsh folktale illustrates the same concern and reverence this nakshatra has for water. In that folktale, «a mermaid who had spent three days with mortals on dry land, upon returning to her kith and kin, was asked what she had seen amongst those on land. She replied, «Nothing much, except that they are so ignorant as to throw away the very water they boil their eggs in.»
The one characteristic which sets Purvashadha apart from all other nakshatras is its intense conviction that 4t can't lose'. Purvashadha feels that it has the ability to come out on top in wherever it directs its energies. As we have seen, there is a strong notion of invincibility attached with this nakshatra. This notion can however be misplaced at times like the famous character of Don Quixote.
Most of the qualities readily associated with the sign Sagittarius — leaps of faith, ambitiousness, adventurous spirit, wi|d exuberance, philosophical zeal, wanderlust — usually stem from the nature and functionings of this nakshatra. It is one of the most optimistic nakshatras, but its optimism does not have the tinge of impatience. It is always ready to bide its time until the wind blows in its favour.
It is completely undaunted by setbacks and doesn't ponder on failure. At times this is a negative quality, in the sense that it hardly ever learns from its mistakes.
Many a times one finds that natives under the strong influence of Purvashadha have unrealistic hopes, ambitions and goals unless there are other balancing factors in the horoscope. For example, Adolf Hitter, who has Moon placed in Purvashadha, started a war with unrealistic aims way beyond the power of his army and resources. Purvashadha has a straight forward driving «just do it» type of energy, which doesn't always take everything into account, especially the feelings and concerns of those around them. This makes this nakshatra an insensitive one and even cruel in some situations. This is why this nakshatra is associated with declarations of war and other such actions which bring about destruction followed by sorrow and regret.
It has a cautious side to it in that it is slow to jump into new things and experiences, but once things are set in motion, it is the type which almost always ends up going overboard. At their best Purvashadha natives are an inspiration to those around them. In their presence one begins to realize that the universe is not such a bad place after all. Purvashadha natives usually have a fresh and unique approach to things, which has the power to instill life into the hearts and minds of those who are not as blessed. Jyestfta is unhappy because it does not know the root of things. Mula makes one find the root and the centre, but it is only Purvashadha which holds the key to joy and happiness, after the centre has been found.
Purvashadha is the nakshatra which can be most associated with the joy of living. This doesn't mean that Purvashadha natives cling onto life like Ashlesha natives. It is just that they like to live each moment to its complete fullness without a care for the past or the future. They have a nonchalant attitude towards misery and thus are never phased by adverse circumstances. Obviously much depends on the overall tone of the chart as well, but the basic energy of Purvashadha is to shrug off adverse circumstances just like a fan shrugs off the misery caused by heat. As we can see, Purvashadha has a strong desire to live a good life and so the natives under its influence are always trying to improve their circumstances. It is usually seen that Purvashadha natives have little formal education and often have to rise from depravity or generally unpleasant circumstances in order to enjoy their «good life». Improvement of circumstances is the main concern for them.
They are the kinds who like to be exuberant once they have achieved their goals. At times this may seem like a show-off to other people, but in most cases the Purvashadha natives are only acting out their inner nature. They are born natural show-offs. Much depends on the refinement of Jupiter and Venus in the chart in terms of how their exuberance expresses itself.
In general, Purvashadha has a pleasant, artistic way of looking at things. They carry a certain proud and serious expression on their faces, but are ever ready to break into a smile or laughter. Their demeanour can change from jovial to serious in the twinkling of an eye. You can't always tell their inner thoughts from their outer expressions. They can be honest at times but they always like to keep a part of themselves secret, just as the ocean gods and goddesses like to have a mysterious touch about them. They have a flambouyant way about themselves which reflects through their dressing, communication and their work. One marked characteristic of Purvashadha is that they usually don't fare well at formal education and are often seen dropping out of schools and universities.
In the universal scheme of things, Purvashadha relates to «varchograhan shakti» — the power to bring about invigoration. Its symbolism has strength above and connection below. This imagery emphasizes the rejuvenation potential of the waters of life, which Purvashadha stands for. Just as the bathing process causes a renewal in our daily lives, the waters of cosmic consciousness bathe us internally so that most of our soul level hurts and confusions are washed away.
Purvashadha is considered to be a Balanced nakshatra. It is very unlikely for a Purvashadha native to overextend themselves, even in their rajasic pursuits. Jupiter and Venus, as planets, are not known to have an extreme attitude regarding activity in the same way that Sun or Mars does.
It belongs to the Brahmin caste. This is one of the most evident classifications as Purvashadha is only related to the two brahmin planets, Venus and Jupiter. Purvashadha has a tendency to go for the most cushy positions or modes of existence available at any given time. In today's times, Purvashadha would rather take up the brahminical profession of being a rock star today! Purvashadha likes to maintain its position at the top of society and have a luxurious existence with the minimum of effort.
It is a Female nakshatra. This obviously relates to its ruling deity, Apah, being feminine, and the fact that Venus is seen as a predominantly feminine planet.
Thighs and Back (from neck to waist) are the body parts related to this nakshatra.
It is a primarily «Pitta» (fiery) nakshatra. This classification relates to Purvashadha's location within the predominantly pitta sign of Sagittarius. We have already talked about the fiery aspect of this asterism.
The directional arc ranging from northeast to southeast, via east.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Leo Navamsa and is ruled by Sun. This pada relates to the proud and confident side of Purvashadha. The spiritual urge is strong here and is accompanied by a strong sense of ethics. Planets placed here like to bring limelight in the issues related to them.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Virgo Navamsa ruled by Mercury. This pada relates to the intellectual, alchemical aspect of this nakshatra. A lot of hard work is required here, but there is also the promise of great spiritual or material accomplishment Barring Venus, planets placed here aid one's career in one way or the other.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Libra Navamsa ruled by Venus. This pada relates to the easy going, luxury loving Venusian side of this nakshatra. The emphasis here is on reaping the fruits rather than working hard. This is a Pushkara Navamsa pada and barring Sun, planets posited here give good material results and promote all types of partnerships and group related activities.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Scorpio Navamsa ruled by Mars. This pada relates to the haughty, secretive, hidden and mysterious aspect of this nakshatra. Herein lies the two extremes, great occult wisdom or material perversity. Planets posited here are good for occult attainments and foreign affairs.
Hypnotists and Psychic Mediums; Sailors; Navy Personnel; Marine Life Experts; Shipping Industry; Fishing Professions; Professional Hosts and Hostesses; Entertainment Industry; Rock Stars; Professional Motivators and Inspirers; Teachers and Preachers of Motivational Philosophies; Managers of all types; Poets, Writers, Artists, Painters; All industries processing raw materials especially liquids; Refineries; War Strategists and Weapons Experts; Costume Designers; Fashion Experts; Hair Dressers; Para jumpers; Hot Air Balloonists; Flying profession especially in regards to civilian transport; Beauticians; Herbalists; Those working in Amusement parks; All professions associated with water and liquids in all its forms.
Oceans; Lakes; Aquarium Parks; Swimming Pools; Docks, Ports; Shipping Yards; Temples; Boats; High Class Estates; Air ports; Luxury Islands and Hotels; Beauty Salons; Amusement Parks; Art Galleries; Music Concert Halls; Places where pompous functions and high society gatherings are held.
It is supposed to be a Rajasic nakshatra. This fits well seeing its planetary ruler, Venus, is a primarily Rajasic planet. Purvashadha is a worldly energy in the sense that it can satisfy one's desires on a material plane through relentless activity, It is a sucker for the good things in life.
It belongs to the Air element. We have to go back to the fan imagery to understand this classification. In at least two of its functions, fan requires the involvement of air. Whether it is fanning the fire or alleviating oneself from the heat, the air element comes into play. After all it is air which keeps the fire burning and Purvashadha is a nakshatra which is most adept at keeping the fire burning.
It is considered a Manusha or human nakshatra. Just like the human race, Purvashadha is a mixed up nakshatra displaying an extreme spectrum of good and bad qualities. Its human quality makes it very interested in terrestrial affairs. It is no wonder then, that 70% of our planet is made up of oceans and 70% of our bodies are made up of water.
It is a Downward Looking nakshatra. Just like Mula, Purvashadha relates to all things which are hidden from view. When we look at our bodies, we can't really see the water in them, even though they are 70% water. Purvashadha's ruling deity Apah is supposed to reside under the surface of the ocean. It is Purvashadha's tendency to hide, which makes it a downward or under the surface nakshatra. One has to dive down to pick up the pearls of Purvashadha.
It is an Ugra (fierce and severe) nakshatra. As we have already seen, Purvashadha is associated with ail types of aggressions like declarations of war. It is Purvashadha's naivete of acting without a care for consequences or repercussions, which makes it a dangerous nakshatra. It is quite a volatile nakshatra, which is very hard to control once it has caught fire. It presses on with its severe actions even after it has realized the futility of them.
It relates to the first half of the lunar month of Ashadha. This month usually corresponds to late June in the solar calendar.
Purvashadha is also related to the Trayodashi (13th tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Facing issues which require courage; Taking a strong stance; Confronting enemies and opposition along with reconciliations and forgiveness; Settling debts; Going to war; Inspiring and inciting others into action; Renewal and revitalizing one's energies, goals and actions on the mental, spiritual, emotional or physical planes; Adventures including exploration into nature and sporting activities; Creative pioneering; Travelling over water, visiting water places and activities connected to water; Sailing and other water sports; Confidence boosting strategies; Worshipping female goddess energies; Showing off; Acts of bravery; Good for equine activities; Artistic performances; Decorating oneself or one's surroundings to spice it up; Visiting ancient sites; Spiritual and occult initiations/attainments; Favourable for agricultural activities; Good for marriage and invigorating sexual activity; All activities connected to its professions.
Unfavourable for activities requiring tact and diplomacy; Not a time for calm reflection; Not good for endings unless the ending promises a brighter future or higher step up the ladder; Not especially good for land journeys.
Venus is the main planetary ruler of Purvashadha. Venus reaches its highest individual energy as a planet in this nakshatra {its peak expression however comes through Revati, where it reaches maximum exaltation).
Purvashadha is the power and purity of the childlike mind, which is represented by Jupiter in the form of faith and wonder. It is the child which stands before the universe. It is the power of renewed life that never grows old. That is why Mercury, the eternal youth, is intimately associated on the esoteric plane with this nakshatra. Wherever there is Venus to bring back life from the dead, there is Mercury behind it. The combination of Mercury,Venus and Jupiter is the Alchemist's secret. Alchemy first takes place in this nakshatra before reaching its completion in Revati (27th nakshatra). Purvashadha is the initiate of the occult mystery schools, Jupiter in this case being the student of Venus and Mercury. Everyone has to be blessed by Venus and Purvashadha to enter this school. Therefore Mercury has to function well with Venus in a horoscope for any type of real occult attainments.
In general astrological terms, Jupiter-Venus, Mercury-Venus, Jupiter-Mercury-Venus conjunctions carry an energy similar to that of Purvashadha. Mercury-Venus and Jupiter-Venus exchange also carry Purvashadha energy.
Besides Saturn, all planets usually do well in Purvashadha. Unless afflicted, even Saturn would do well in its 2nd and 3rd padas.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Bu» as in Bootis.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Dah» as in Dahl.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Bha» as in Bhatt.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Dha» as in Dharma.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Purvashadha corresponds to «Ba» consequently its mantras are «Om Bam».
Its sexual animal is a Monkey. This makes it very playful in regards to sexual activities. It is most compatible with Shravana, the other monkey nakshatra.
All of the matter written below came to my wife Vela, in a dream. A goddess (which we can presume to be Apah or Laxmi), revealed the esoteric secret behind this Nakshatra.
The «life giving waters» of Purvashadha is the 'elixir' of life, the key to immortality sought after in the Alchemical mystery schools. In this nakshatra, the initiate of the ancient mystery schools becomes the bride of heaven. Being the highest expression of Venusian energy, it is the ultimate union with what is above. When one hears the shadowy echoes of the ancients through the walls of their ancient temples, one is listening to the voices of immortality inherent in Purvashadha, that which lives on after death. When someone listens to the feedback of Jimi Hendrix's guitar, (who has Purvashadha rising on his Ascendant), one is again listening to the immortality aspect of this nakshatra.
This is the 20th nakshatra. '2' represents Venus and the harmonising of two elements or two signs. Т/ is the number of completion and infinity. Purvashadha is thus the infinity aspect of the Venusian energy. Purvashadha is the harmonising of Mercury/Venus and Taurus/Gemini, the two signs which form the gateway to the constellation of Orion. «11 relates to the second sign of the zodiac Taurus and '3' represents Gemini, the third sign of the zodiac. This is why those who are bom on the 23th day of the month carry some of this Purvashadha energy. Mrigashira, the constellation which lies across the Taurus/Gemini axis also carries some of Purvashadha's energy. '2' is the feminine goddess energy, represented by the Moon. She is the «Isis» mystery, the High Priestess in the Tarot deck, the revealer of secrets and possessor of those secrets unrevealed. These secrets belong to the high initiates of the ancient mystery schools. This is why Mercury's role with Purvashadha is hidden from view. This hidden role is seen by the fact Gemini is placed opposite the sign of Sagittarius in the natural zodiac.
The seventeenth card of the Tarot deck known as 'The Star», relates most closely to Purvashadha's energies. The female figure in the card expresses eternal youth and beauty and she pours the waters of life from heaven onto the earth. The motto of this card 'waters of life freely' speaks for itself in regards to its relation with Purvashadha.»
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Pulahu, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «connector of space». Purvashadha's relationship with connectivity can be gleaned from the adhesive and connective role water plays in our bodies. Purvashadha relates to the same connecting force which holds space together in much the same way as it holds the water droplets together in the form of an ocean.