Uttarashada, the pinnacle of solar energy, is represented in the celestial firmament by four bright stars, which the ancients saw as resembling an elephant's tusk. In modem astronomy they are known as Sigma-Sagittarii (Ascella), Tau-Sagittarii, Phi-Sagittarii and Zeta-Sagittarii (Nunki). These four stars lie in the end portion of the astronomical constellation of Sagittarius. However it must be noted that this asterism's influence extends into the first ten degrees of the zodiacal sign of Capricorn as well. Nunki, having a visual magnitude of 2.07, is the brightest among them. According to the legend, these stars correspond to trie celestial area where the godly forces got their final victory over the demonic forces.
«Uttarashada» translates into the «Latter Invincible One» or the «Latter Unconquered». This meaning reveals the crux of this asterism, which has more to do with the term «final victory» than any other asterism. It also reveals that it forms a pair with its predecessor Purvashadha, in the same way as Purvaphalguniand Uttaraphalguni form a pair.
«Uttarashada» translates into the «Latter Invincible One» or the «Latter Unconquered». This meaning reveals the crux of this asterism, which has more to do with the term «final victory» than any other asterism. It also reveals that it forms a pair with its predecessor Purvashadha, in the same way as Purvaphalguniand Uttaraphalguni form a pair.
Its primary symbol is an 'elephant's tusk'. The tusk is the most prized part of an elephant's anatomy. Elephants are usually very conscious of their tusks and zealously guard them. Researchers have found that the type, colour and size of the tusk has something to do with who becomes the leader of an elephant tribe. It follows that Uttarashadha has a lot to do with leadership issues.
Besides ornamentation, the tusk is useful to elephants for only one practical purpose — fighting. Just like its predecessor, Purvashadha, Uttarashadha has a lot to do with aggressive actions like declarations of war. As mentioned earlier, Purvashadha and Uttarashadha form a pair and some scholars regard the tusk of an elephant as a symbol for Purvashadha as well. They see the left tusk as belonging to Purvashadha and the right tusk to Uttarashadha.
In most ancient cultures where elephants were known, they were used as symbols of royal insignia. All kings, including Indra, the king of the gods, were supposed to ride on elephants during processions and sometimes even during warfare, Uttarashadha, therefore, has a direct relationship with kingship and all the responsibilities it entails. In a way, 'responsibility' is the most important keyword for this nakshatra.
For obvious reasons, an elephant's tusk is also regarded as a symbol of penetration. It signifies penetrating mental insight and the ability to enter new fields of endeavour. It also conveys a certain sense of fearlessness and a go ahead spirit.
Uttarashadha has ten ruling deities known as the Ten Vtshvadevas. Vishvadevas means Universal Gods. The names of these ten celestial beings translate into — «Goodness», 'Truth», «Willpower», «Skill», 'Time», «Desire», «Firmness», «Ancestors», «Brightness» and «Peak». It is clear that all these ten gods are extremely benevolent and are representative of the primary virtues of the original, divine, creative spark. They can be said to be the guardians of all that represents the word «good» in the universe. In the same way, Uttarashadha represents all that is good and benign on our planet.
All the qualities expressed through the names of the Vishvadevas find expression through Uttarashadha. This is what sets Uttarashadha apart from Purvashadha, even though most of Purvashadha's qualities and functionings apply to it as well. As a result of qualities like willpower and firmness, Uttarashadha has far greater permanence than its predecessor. It is easy to see that all these qualities are bome out of honest introspection, which makes Uttarashadha more introspective in comparison to the extroverted, flambouyant Purvashadha.
It is interesting to note that one of these gods is named «Ancestors». This must relate Uttarashadha to traditions as well as one's forefathers (see Magha). Uttarashadha is the first nakshatra which tries to encompass the qualities of all its predecessors (Dhanishta and Revati do the same). One can associate will power with Ardra and Krittika; skilfulness with Hasta and Chitra; time with Bharani and Anuradha; desire with Bharani, Rohini, Mrigashira and Ashlesha, Goodness with Aswini, Purnavasu and Pushya; Truth with Uttaraphalguni, Firmness with Uttaraphalguni, Vishakha and Jyesthar, Ancestors to Magha; Brightness with Rohini, Mrigashira, Purvaphalguni and Chitra; and Peak with Mula and Purvashadha.
Ganesha, the elephant headed God, is the final presiding deity of this nakshatra. Ganesha is the only deity with an elephant's head. The story behind his getting an elephant's head reveals a lot relating to Uttarashadha's essence (refer to the Esoteric Section). Ganesha is always portrayed as having a full right tusk and a cut left tusk. This symbolises that Uttarashadha has a more complete and coherent energy in comparison to its mate Purvashadha. Ganesha can thus be seen as being strongly connected to both Ashadhas. Ganesha is seen as the «Lord of Beginnings» and «Remover of Obstacles» and his blessings are sought in all beginnings. Uttarashadha therefore relates to all kinds of beginnings. It is seen that activities started under the positive influence of this nakshatra are blessed with success and permanence.
Many of Magha's qualities like elegance, traditionalism, authority and respect for courtesies are similar to Uttarashadha. However, Uttarashadha has a more positive, introspective and enduring aspect. It shows a person of very good qualities who may be valued for their advice. It gives a talent for commencing new enterprises and seeing them through to completion. It is a very practical and pioneering type of energy as most of its quarters fall in the practical and achievement orientated sign of Capricorn. It is a nakshatra very concerned with structures, order and makes one adhere to activities and behaviour which are seen as respectable and sometimes conformist.
It's association with the ancestors shows a deep respect for traditional values and a desire to advocate these values in one's behaviour and life. However the Saturnine influence on this nakshatra can make a person rigid and harsh, just as the piercing symbol of the elephant's tusk suggests. It can show an intolerance for anything which does not follow normal respectable lines. Spiritual and philosophical motivations are directed towards finding practical solutions to life's problems.
The sexual animal of this nakshatra, the mongoose, is one of the few animals which can defeat a snake. In a way, Uttarashadha can be seen as the very opposite of all that Ashlesha stands for. Since they are placed opposite each other (6th / 7th / 8th house relationship), there is open enmity and warfare between these two nakshatras. This nakshatra has little tolerance for underhanded or deceptive influences. However the mongoose is cunning in its own way and its symbol suggests that one is courageous and clever in finding ways to forge ahead in difficult, dangerous or complex situations. Natives under the strong influence of Uttarashadha tend to gravitate towards or attract situations in life which represent a lot of challenges. On a spiritual level it makes one very determined to pierce through the veil of illusion to uncover one's true soul nature.
In the universal scheme of things, Uttarashada relates to «apradhrishya shakti» — the power to give permanent victory. Its symbolism has achievable goals above and the strength to achieve those goals below. This imagery is self-explanatory. The only thing worth mentioning is that this strength is not personal strength, but the collective strength which comes about due to an alliance with the higher forces of good, when one is wholeheartedly and unselfishly trying to establish righteousness over unrig hteousness.
Uttarashadha is considered to be a Balanced nakshatra. This self evident classification does not require too much commentary. A centre is needed for any kind of balance and Uttarashadha, amongst all nakshatras, relates most closely to this centre, from both a universal and personal perspective. It is said that the «road to excess leads to the palace of wisdom», but one must remember that this palace of wisdom has balance as its foundation.
It belongs to the Kshatriya (warrior) caste. This nakshatra is mostly concerned with attaining a place of position or strength in society. As we have already seen, it relates to leadership and the ruling class. According to Мали (trie lawgiver for our planet), all kings and leaders came under the kshatriya caste. Uttarashadha has brahminical tendencies, but they often seem to manifest within a kshatriya framework, A good king is akin to a sage, but is still not a sage. In fact Janak is the only earthly king to have been awarded a brahminical title (refer to the Vedic legend 'The Ramayana»).
It is a Female nakshatra. This classification defies all common sense as all of Uttarashadha's ruling deities and planetary rulers are male. The only way we can comprehend this is by considering the fact that all the ten good qualities are seen in a feminine light in Vedic texts, Vedic texts regard all qualities as being part of «nature», which in the end is considered to be the feminine principle of the absolute. Uttarashadha is a nakshatra which has more to do with the benign functionings of Maya rather than the male observer essence of the Absolute.
Thighs and Waist are the body parts related to this nakshatra.
It is a primarily «Kapha» (watery) nakshatra. Elephants (closely associated with this nakshatra) are supposed to be the main representatives of the kapha humor. Kapha is a constitution, which is derived from the combination of earth and a little bit of the water element. The earth element is provided by the sign Capricorn (which most of Uttarashadha lies in) and the little bit of water element is provided by Jupiter (part of Uttarashadha falls in Sagittarius, Jupiter's sign).
It is related primarily to south, west, north-east and east.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Sagittarius Navamsa and is ruled by Jupiter. Righteousness, confidence and expansiveness are the hallmarks of this pada. Nothing seems impossible when one is working through the energies of this pada. It has supreme faith in its ability, knowledge and understanding. Being both a pushkara navamsa pada and a vargottama pada, planets placed here give strong material/spiritual results. Sun, Jupiter, Mars and Ketu are especially potent here. Jupiter gives the best results.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Capricorn Navamsa ruled by Saturn. The emphasis here is on concretization and materia) expression of one's thoughts, plans and desires. Planets placed here give nerves of steel. Most of the issues of this pada circle around one's own self and personality and how it is expressed in the outer world. It is the goal rather than the means which becomes important here. An exaggerated attention or attachment to worldliness and power structures can be noticed. Mars and Saturn have the ability to best utilize the energies of this pada.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aquarius Navamsa ruled by Saturn. The emphasis here is on accumulation, whether it be knowledge or material possessions. A strong attachment to the concept of family can be noticed in this pada. Planets here give good results if one works towards one's goals through involving other people. Group and team work are essential for the proper functioning of this pada. Rahu, Mercury and Saturn feel comfortable in this pada. Saturn gives the strongest results.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Pisces Navamsa ruled by Jupiter. This pada promotes physical prowess, short travels, courage and philanthropy. There's a constant conflict between material and spiritual values as the native strives to achieve a balance. In the present times, more often than not, materiality prevails. Planets placed here give abundant energy for pursuing one's goals. Moon , Mars and Saturn seem best equipped to handle the energies of this pada.
Preachers, Priests; Counsellors; Astrologers; Lawyers (of an ethical nature); Judges; Government officials; Psychologists; Military Professions; Equine professions; Pioneers; Explorers; Wrestlers, Sword fighters and other combat sports; Athletes; Elephant trainers; Business Executives; Organizers; Defense Industry; Authority figures of all types; Teachers; Guards, High class Servants; Bird watchers and enthusiasts; Body Guards, Security Personnel; Rangers; Hunters; Construction Industry; Cricketers; Holistic Physicians; Politicians (as good as they get in the present day and age); All professions requiring a sense of responsibility and ethics.
Prairies; Flat Savannahs; Mountainous Forests; National Parks; Wildlife Sanctuaries; Bird Sanctuaries; Reservations; Government Buildings and Grounds; Courts; Temples, Churches and other religious buildings; Universities; College Campuses; Military Bases; Traditionalistic Towns and Cities; Elite Gentlemen Clubs and Societies; Sports Stadiums; Cricket Grounds; All professions connected with the above places.
It is supposed to be a Sattwic nakshatra. The sattwic and benevolent nature of this nakshatra can be seen clearly through its ruling deity, the Ten Vishvadevas.
It belongs to the Air element. This definitely must relate to its connection with the airy planet Saturn. Besides ether, air is the most all encompassing element. Uttarashadha, which has more to do with responsibility, equality and justice, has to have an all encompassing framework to manifest its ten golden qualities.
It is considered a Manusha or human nakshatra. The fact that its ruling deities are known as Vishvadevas, coupled with the fact that Vishva is one of the common terms used for terrestrial affairs on our planet; reveals the intensive involvement of this nakshatra with human affairs on the earthly realm. It is said that one can only truly understand and develop the ten qualities associated with Uttarashadha in a human birth. It is for this reason that a lot of astral beings like demi-gods are vying for earthly incarnations under suitable conditions.
It is Upward nakshatra. All upward nakshatras are considered good for things which grow or progress over time. We have already mentioned that all activities commenced under the positive influence of Uttarashadha grow in leaps and bounds and achieve permanence. Another way of looking at it is that Uttarashadha takes its cue from up above.
It is a Dhruva (fixed or permanent) nakshatra. If there is any nakshatra which can be considered as the 'doyan of permanence', it is Uttarashadha. In fact all the qualities associated with the character Dhruva (son of a demon king who was an ardent worshipper of Vishnu), are the same as those belonging to Uttarashadha. In honour of this character, the pole star was known as Dhruvatara in Vedic texts. In the same vein, one can understand that Uttarashadha is the pivot of good qualities around which the game of life revolves.
It relates to the second half of the lunar month of Ashadha, a period which usually falls in late July in the solar calendar.
Uttarashada is also related to Pumima (15th tithi or Full Moon day) of the waxing phase of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Planning new beginnings; Laying out plans for anything; Initial plans for any activity; Beginning things anew; Laying foundations; All spiritual/religious activities and rituals; Putting one's affairs in order; Activities requiring great discernment and correct judgement; Ail types of Business affairs; Signing Contracts; Promotions; Acting authoritatively; Artistic Ventures; Marriage; Sexual Activity; Entering a new residence; dealing with authority; Public, Political or Legal matters; One of the best nakshatras for initiating any kind of activity.
Unfavourable for travel; Not good for concluding matters/endings. Uttarashadha is generally good for everything except committing unlawful activities. Unethical, rude, impetuous and primitive behaviour is not allowed here.
Sun is the main planetary ruler of this nakshatra. The solar principle, which was born in Krittika, reaches its zenith in this nakshatra. Theoretically it is suffice to say that the Sun does not exist after this nakshatra. It means that the soul's ability to effect its surroundings reaches a peak in this nakshatra. In its highest aspect, the individual will is completely tuned with the universal will and thus all the actions on a worldly plane are taken without the involvement of ego and selfishness. The sense of right and wrong which is required here is not related to personal human laws but to the divine laws of the universal mind. This is the nakshatra where the ego and individuality is sacrificed for the sake Qf the greater good.
Since this nakshatra lies in the signs Sagittarius and Capricorn, Jupiter and Saturn have a strong relationship with it. We can note that Jupiter and Saturn also rule the four padas of this nakshatra. The combination of expansive Jupiter and contractive Saturn signifies moderation and practicality. Since Jupiter reaches maximum debilitation in the Capricorn part of this nakshatra, it is implied that this part of the nakshatra is not suited for too much hope, idealism, expansiveness or outer religious displays and rituals. In simple language, this is the place for action, not words. The concrete practical action, which takes place here, shapes the material world according to universal laws.
Jupiter/Saturn, Sun/Jupiter, Sun/Satum and Sun/Jupiter/Saturn conjunctions carry energies similar to Uttarashadha. Planets Mercury, Venus and Jupiter, unless operating from their higher aspect, can make one too materialistic if placed in the Capricorn part of this nakshatra. All planets when placed in this nakshatra, are prone to excessive and misplaced idealism, unless the individual will is working in harmony with the universal will. Every error one makes under the influence of this nakshatra is magnified, due to the enormous capacity of this nakshatra to influence the material world.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Be» as in Beth.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Bo» as in Bohemian.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Ja» as in Jardine.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Ji» as in Jimi.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Uttarashadha corresponds to «Bha», consequently its mantra is «Om Bham».
The sexual animal related to this nakshatra is the Mongoose. Uttarashadha is not very sexual in the first place, which is clear from the fact that the mongoose has no compatible sexual animal amongst the other nakshatras. To put it simply, sexuality is not Uttarashadha's domain.
The legend of the birth of Ganesha carries within itself all the tragedy, valour, divinity, esotericism, enforced sacrifice, renewal and regeneration inherent in Uttarashada. In short the story goes like this:
«Parvati created a mind borne son and instructed him to stand as a guard and not to let anyone in while she was bathing. Her husband Shiva, returning home, was barred entry by Parvati's son. Shiva had not seen this boy before and did not know who he was, and the boy in turn did not recognize Shiva. Harsh words were exchanged and a battle erupted, Shiva could not defeat this boy and had to retreat. He felt humiliated after being defeated by a mere child and sought the help of Vishnu and other Gods to defeat the child.
In the battle that ensued, all of the Gods together were unable to defeat him. Vishnu finally came up with a plan that someone should fight with the boy from the front, while he flew from behind to stealthily take the mace out of the boy's hand. Vishnu's theory was that the boy couldn't be defeated until the mace was taken out of his hand. The plan worked, as Shiva was able to cut the boy's head with his trident as soon as Vishnu's vehicle Garuda (celestial eagle) snatched the mace.
Since he was Parvati's mind borne son she immediately came to know of his death and the whole story flashed before her mind's eye. She became enraged and summoned all the Shaktis (feminine forces) of the universe to create havoc on Vishnu, Shiva and the rest of the Gods. The whole creation went completely haywire and alt the Gods were scared out of their wits. Vishnu realized that the whole universe would collapse if Parvati was not appeased quickly. This could only be done if the boy was brought back to life.
Vishnu instructed the Gods to descend on earth and bring back the head of the first thing they saw. They saw an elephant and swiftly returned with its head. Vishnu and Shiva attached the elephant's head to the trunk of the boy's body, which resurrected him. Finally Parvati's anger subsided and order was restored in the universe. The boy was named 'Ganesha', which translates into the leader of all tribes', and was given the boon to be worshipped first before any other Gods.»
As the 21st asterism, Uttarashadha relates to the number 21. According to the ancients the number 21 is called 'The Crown of the Magi'. The 'Crown' here obviously refers to the seventh sacral centre, Sahastrara, which is the final resting place of the kundalini. The Pythagoreans see it as a special number because it is a multiple of the two sacred numbers 3 and 7. We know that there are three channels Ida, Pingala and Sushumna, which carry the lifeforce within our astral bodies through the seven sacral centres. 21 can be seen as a summation of the passage of these three channels through the seven sacral centres. Uttarashadha therefore relates to perfection on all levels, physical, mental arid spiritual.
In the Tarot Deck, the 21st card is «The World», which is seen to represent the whole earthly plane of existence with all its complexities and diversities. It also represents perfection and finality from a universal perspective. We can easily relate this symbolism with Uttarashadha's ruling deities, «The Ten Lords or Overseers of the World».
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Kratu, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «the inspirer». In a way, inspiring others is one of the main functions of Uttarashadha, as its own goodness sets examples for others to follow. Since the Sage Kratu is associated only with benign nakshatras, we can infer that he has a similar role in celestial circles.