Shravana, the apex of lunar energy, is represented in the celestial firmament by three bright stars in the constellation known as Aquiia (the Eagle). In modern astronomy these stars are known as Alpha-Aquilae (Altair), Beta-Aquilae (Alshain) and Gamma-Aquilae (Tarazed). These three stars can be seen huddled together on top of the constellation of Capricorn. Altair, having a visual magnitude of 0.93, is one of the brightest objects in the night sky making Shravana a very easily visible asterism. According to the puranic legends, these stars correspond to the three steps taken by Vishnu in his Vamana-avatar.
«Shravana» translates into two very unrelated terms — «hearing» and «the one who limps». The limping meaning is in obvious reference to Vishnu's three steps (please refer to the story below in the Esoteric Section); while «hearing» as we shall discover, forms the crux of what this asterism is all about.
Its alternative name is «Ashvattha», a term used for the sacred Pipal tree {Ficus Religiose). In Vedic texts, this tree is always given extraordinary significance. It is worthwhile to mention that Buddha received enlightenment meditating under this tree.
There are three main symbols for this nakshatra. One is a 'row of three uneven footsteps', which as we can see from the nakshatras image, are represented by its constituent stars. These three steps were supposed to be taken by Vishnu in one of his incarnations, the purpose of which was to establish order in the universe through the restoration of the heaven to the gods and earth to the human beings. We will discuss this story in more detail when we discuss the esoteric aspect of this asterism. These three steps can be seen as the threefold law through which the cosmic intelligence maintains order in the universe. Nature, as we know, operates in three modes and this threefold law relates to the three interactions between these modes.
A 'trident' is the alternative symbol of this asterism, which once again reiterates this asterism's connection to the number '3'. Most numerologists know that '3' is the number of communication and is the energy responsible for establishing order in the universe. This is why all ancient cultures had three main deities responsible for overlooking universal affairs.
An 'ear' is a commonly used symbol for this asterism, which we can see is derived directly from its name. The communication aspect of this asterism is therefore more focused on listening than speaking. Listening is the one and only way one can learn anything. To emphasize this aspect, some wise men assigned three ears as its symbol. The reader can see that in the nakshatras image the tree is 'full of ears'. In the ancient Indian Vedic tradition, knowledge was orally transmitted and so (shrvti), the power of listening, automatically became the most important quality an individual could possess. It is because of these oral transmissions that Vedic knowledge is available today in its pristine state. From this we can conjure that this asterism has a lot to do with preservation, in keeping with the nature of the sign it falls in. When a native has a strong Shravana influence in their horoscope, the astrologer can safely advise that person to learn to listen more to others, or pay attention to one's inner voice in order to grow or progress in life.
Vishnu, the preserver among the Trinity, is the main presiding deity of this asterism. His relationship with this nakshatra is already established from the symbolism and mythology associated with this nakshatra. It is because of this strong relationship with Vishnu that this nakshatra gets its strong organizational ability, which is normally associated with the sign Capricorn. In keeping with Vishnu's nature, this nakshatra likes to bring order through tact and cleverness and in many a case, through any which way possible. It allows one to be able to listen, assimilate and contemplate on a problem to arrive at the solution. Like Vishnu, this asterism does not believe in hurrying with things and is ready to sit and wait uitfil the time is ripe.
Saraswati, the goddess of learning, is also strongly associated with this nakshatra, even though very few scholars acknowledge this fact. This nakshatra is not all about listening. It is also related to speech and the ability to put learning into words. Someone has to speak for someone to listen! This relationship with Saraswati connects this nakshatra to the use and study of languages, music and a fascination for all media connected with education.
On a positive level Shravana is an amicable nakshatra, which tries to be reasonable and keep its peace with its surroundings. It is calculative, but in its higher expression this calcuiativeness does not have selfish motivations. Even its stubborn, unyielding nature is directed towards a higher cause in its positive aspect. It is a persevering nakshatra which doesn't like to leave things in the middle or undone. This is probably the reason why it is said that any activity started in this nakshatra always reach its completion.
In its negative aspect, all its qualities like perseverance, shrewdness and knowledge are used for purely selfish means. Its power to listen, learn and teach meaningful things is usually lost in gossip, backbiting and manipulation. Since it is a very goal oriented nakshatra, it becomes dangerous when its goals are unwholesome and unethical. Narrow-mindedness is one of the strong traits to emerge out of the negative functionings of this nakshatra. This nakshatra requires toning down of the ego, as listening without preconceptions is the only way to learn. There is always a danger with this nakshatra that a person under its influence may not always learn the right things. A person born under a strong influence of this asterism should always be very careful of the company they keep. There is always some foolhardiness attached with Shravana. The native can easily fall prey to deception and bad advice.
In its highest level of functioning, this asterism relates to acquiring universal knowledge and applying It to bring about order in the material world. It usually bestows very strong powers of erudition and sagacity. Oratory and other forms of lecturing come naturally and effortlessly to such natives. In the present times, much of the organizational ability of this nakshatra has been used for destructive and degenerative ends. This asterism is connected to all forms of media and in today's world most of the media is used for propagating falsehood, lies and devoluting influences.
Shravana is a socially active nakshatra which revels in public dealings. It has a very business like approach to things, even though maintaining cordiality is its primary objective. If this nakshatra is rising on the Ascendant, the person is likely to be mature in their approach, cunning, well mannered and receptive with an alert look. The appearance is a mix of Moony softness and Saturnine rigidity. Such people are usually clever in conversation and are skilled at putting others at ease quickly. In the present day and age, most of them can be seen spending a whole lot of time on the telephone! Whether a native under the influence of this nakshatra will listen more or speak more, depends upon the planet posited in this asterism. For example, if Saturn is posited in this nakshatra, one will tend to listen more and may find speaking difficult, while a person who has Mars placed in this nakshatra can be quite a chatterbox, but may not be well-versed in the art of listening.
Philosophical and religious attitudes which rely heavily upon phrases like «Word is God ...» and «In the beginning, there was the word, from which arose everything else corresponds to this nakshatra's line of thinking. It is true that «Om» (or Aum) was the first sound at the beginning of creation, but it is important to remember that the seed of the universe lay in a silent state before that. The «word» is not «god», but just one of the many expressions of the ultimate causative principle, commonly known as «god».
The downfall of this nakshatra usually lies in excessive generosity which leads to debts and poverty. It can also make enemies through bigotry, narrow-mindedness or extreme ethical stances. This nakshatra is not favourable for having and raising children. This seems to hold true in charts where this asterism falls in the fifth house. When Ascendant or Moon is placed in this asterism, or it is placed in the fifth house, or the fifth lord is placed in this asterism, it usually denotes few children and the native derives little happiness from them. On the contrary, they are always a source of anxiety for them.
In the universal scheme of things, Shravana relates to «apradhrishya shako» — 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 unrighteousness.
It is supposed to be a Passive nakshatra. Its passivity relates to the fact that it is receptive and takes time to listen to others. In fact, much of its organizational skill comes from a passive approach to things. It tends to let things organize themselves rather than poke its head into the process too much.
Its caste is Mleccha (outcaste). It might surprise some that this amicable and worldly nakshatra should be regarded as an outcaste. The thing to note here is that this nakshatra was in some way connected with the lower Capricomian type working dass in ancient times. It was related to people who had to basically listen to orders and carry them out. On the higher levels this nakshatra relates to individuals who listen to and follow the inner voice without caring much for the social order of their times, which again puts them in an outcaste category!
It is a Male nakshatra. This can easily be seen from the fact that its primary ruling deity is Vishnu, one of the three bearers of the masculine principle. It carries a sense of objectivity, a very masculine quality. It does have a soft, feminine side to it since Saraswati, one of the three main feminine archetypes, is also connected with it. Saraswati's feminine principle again relates to logic, reason and learning, but her influence imparts some sensitivity.
The primary body parts it relates to are the Ears and Sex Organs. In our view, it can be seen as the primary indicator of ear and secondary indicator of sex organs. Considering its symbol and imagery, its relationship with the ears comes as no surprise. Besides being the organs of listening, ears are the balancing organs for the body. This again highlights the balanced nature of this asterism. Its relationship with the sexual organs is mainly connected to its connection with procreation as a means of preservation.
Shravana is also related to ones gait. Capricorn, as we know, is the sign related to gait, but it is only the Shravana part of it which relates to gait. Any affliction to this nakshatra can result in limping or lameness, especially if the lords of the 9th, 10th, 11th or 12th houses are involved.
It is a primarily «Kapha» (watery) nakshatra due to its strong relationship with the Moon.
Its primary directions ar south and northwest.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aries Navamsa and is therefore ruled by Mars. Someone born under this pada expresses an underlying Martian quality in relation to the nakshatra, which is expressed as logic, initiative and a career conscious or ambitious approach.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Taurus Navamsa, ruled by Venus, Therefore the Venusian qualities such as diplomacy, tact and courtesy are dominant influences in the way this nakshatra expresses itself. This pada corresponds to Pushkara Navamsa and any planet posited in this pada will give the best results as far as this asterism is concerned. This pada relates to those involved in organizational aspects of the entertainment industry, especially the music business.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Gemini Navamsa, ruled by Mercury. This pada brings out the part of Shravana which is flexible, cunning, versed in speech and conversation and eager to leam. This pada relates to those working in the mass-media and other communication oriented occupations.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Cancer Navamsa, ruled by Moon. This pada brings out the part of Shravana which is receptive, sympathetic and understanding. It is the most mass-oriented pada of this asterism and thus relates the most to those holding important public offices or those in lunar-occupations like hoteliers etc.
Teachers, Preachers and Educators in all fields; Scholars, Students and all those associated with universities; Linguists, Language Translators and Interpreters; Story Tellers and Narrators; Comedians; Those involved in the Music Business and Recording Industry (mainly Producers and Sound technicians); Telephone Operators and all those earning their livelihood by some kind of phone job; Those involved in the preservation of ancient traditions and those pursuing classical studies; Those involved in organizational capacities in big and small corporations; Gossip Columnists, News Broadcasters, Talk Show Hosts and others involved in the radio/television business; Modem day Counsellors, Psychiatrists, Psychoanalysts and Psychologists; Radio Operators in different fields (even those who are involved in catching signals from other civilizations in the galaxy!); Travel Agents and all those involved in the Transportation and Tourism industry; Those working in the Hotel/Restaurant business; On a higher level Healers and Practitioners of holistic medicine and on a lower level those involved with allopathy, hospitals and the medical profession in general; Those connected with Charitable organizations, clubs and societies.
Universities; Libraries; Schools; Colleges; Public Auditoriums and other places of public gatherings; Recording Studios; Hospitals; Telephone Companies; Basically all the places connected to the above mentioned professions.
It is a primarily Rajasic nakshatra. This means that it is active on the worldly plane. This activity can be motivated either by universal interests or purely selfish interests, depending upon the evolutionary level of the soul in question. This is a good nakshatra for attaining wealth and worldly accomplishments in general. If a person under a strong influence of this asterism is poor, one can infer that this poverty is serf inflicted, rather than being fated.
Its element is Air, which again emphasizes the communication aspect of this nakshatra. It usually relates well to the fire nakshatras like Uttaraphalguni etc.
It is a Godly nakshatra. This is evident since Vishnu, the harbinger of all godly qualities, presides over this asterism. This relates to its gentle, kind, amicable, liberal minded, prosperous, reasonable and sociable nature. Shravana natives always think twice about doing harm to others and are not prone to take the lead in any sort of cruelty.
It is an Upward Looking nakshatra. This relates to its expansive attitude in relation to life in general. After all, Vishnu took three very expansive steps (refer to the story in the Esoteric Section) to take away the control of all the three worlds from Bali (the demon king). This expansiveness in today's world tends to boil down to ambition.
This is a Moveable nakshatra. This is thus a nakshatra which promotes travel, mostly in relation to the career. A lot of natives under its strong influence go touring as part of their job, which may involve lecturing and teaching. Natives may enjoy the hotel/tourism side of travelling with this nakshatra placement.
Its energies correspond to the first 9 days of the lunar month of Shravan. This period usually corresponds to the month of August in the solar calendar.
Shravana is also related to the Tritiya (3rd tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Religious rituals and performances; Beginning new ventures; Entering a new house or buying property; Medical actions and remedial measures; Taking preventive measures of all kinds; Listening to advice (listening in general); Social interactions and public involvement; Learning, study of languages and classical traditions; Reading and writing; Music, philosophy and meditation; Good for sexual activity; Making peace; Organizing in general; Making and taking herbs and medicines; Politics; Purchasing new clothes, items and equipment for home or business; Initiations in spiritual learning; Giving and receiving counselling; Important phone calls; Favourable for travel, especially towards its ruling directions; Taking a new name; Humanitarian actions in general; Worship of Vishnu or Saraswati.
Unfavourable for aggressive, uncertain or risky activities such as lawsuits, wars etc.; Not good for creative activities involving manual work; Not good for lending, making promises, oaths etc.; Not good for putting an end to things like demolishing old structures; Not good for worshipping fierce deities like Rudra; It is not considered favourable for marriage ceremonies or adopting children.
Moon and Saturn are the two planets governing this nakshatra. Moon is the nakshatra's main planetary ruler and Saturn rules Capricorn, the sign that it falls in. Moon relates to the receptive and gentle part of Shravana, while Saturn relates to its persevering and organizational aspect.
Both Moon and Saturn are intimately connected with the masses and mass mentality. This is where this nakshatra gets its ability to influence mass opinions. This is probably the reason why a lot of politicians are under a strong influence of this nakshatra. The 10th house, which has a similar energy to Shravana, bestows position and influence so that one may educate the masses in universal values and truths. In today's world however, where the majority among the masses are ignorant and the leaders dumb and selfish, only the negative aspects of this nakshatra come to life. In its higher aspect, it relates to dissemination of universal truths and knowledge through entertaining and easy to understand Vedic epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
The lunar energy attains completion in Shravana. In numerology, '2' is considered to be the Moon's number. Shravana is the 22nd asterism and the double 2's' signify the summation of the lunar energy. This means that all the best and worst of the lunar qualities are expressed through this nakshatra. Due to its extreme receptivity, error in judgement is very likely with this nakshatra. Other negative lunar traits like changeability, vacillation, imaginary fears and phobias are also seen in their extreme expression here. Only in evolved souls do the positive lunar qualities of universal compassion, motherly nurturing and complete receptivity to the universal mind are witnessed.
Moon in Capricorn, Saturn in Cancer or Moon/Saturn together in any sign or house, are the placements and combinations which carry an energy similar to that of Shravana.
Moon, Satum, Mars, Mercury and Venus do well in Shravana. Venus however can make one too materialistic unless there are other elevating factors.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Ju» as in Jupiter or Justin.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Je» as in Jennifer or Jet.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Jo» as in Joe.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Gha» as in Ghana or Ghastly.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Shravana corresponds to «Mam», and so its mantra would be «Om Mam».
Its sexual animal is a Monkey, which indicates more affinity towards affection and playfulness than the actual sexual act. Those under the influence of this nakshatra can be exhibitionist in regards to sexual activities. They are prone to talk more about it rather than actually indulge in it.
The main puranic story connected with this asterism is as follows:
«A demon king called Bali had taken over all the three worlds (earth, heaven and the netherworld) through his might and prowess. The beaten devas (demi gods) appealed to Vishnu for help. Vishnu assured them that he would restore their heavenly abode to them and rid the universe of the rule of the demons. He waited until Bali was performing a big Yagya (elaborate religious ceremony). One of the rules of this Yagya was that Bali could not refuse the demand of any brahmin. Keeping this in mind, Vishnu went to this Yagya in the form of a young brahmin boy. Like all the other brahmins present there, he was honourably received by Bali and asked what he could do for him. Vishnu in his Vamana form (young Brahmin boy form) asked Bali for land which he could cover within his three strides. This demand amused Bali as he thought, «Why would this little Brahmin boy want something as little as three foot strides of land, when he could ask me for millions of other things?»
Bali's preceptor, Shukracharya, could see through Vishnu's act and warned Bali not to give into the innocent looking brahmin boy's request. Bali was a man of his word and told his preceptor that even though he honoured and respected him, he couldn't go against his vow, and had no option but to fulfil the brahmin boy's wish. Shukracharya became furious with Bali for not paying heed to his advice and left the assembly. When Bali was pouring the sacred water from his pot as a ritual marking for granting the boy's wish, Shukracharya assumed a tiny form and stuck himself in the pot's spout so that no water could come out of it. Vishnu obviously knew what was going on and so he took a sharp blade of grass to clear the obstruction. It is said that this blade of grass destroyed one of Shukracharya's eyes, and this is the reason why he is always portrayed as having one eye ever since.
With the obstacle removed and the ritual over, it was time for the brahmin boy to take his three strides worth of land. Suddenly the boy's size started increasing until it got so big that no one could see his head anymore. In one stride he took both the netherworld and the earth, and in the second stride he took heaven. Then Vishnu turned around to Bali and said, «Now where do I put my third foot?» Bali knowing that he had no other place to give, offered his own head for him to put his third stride. Vishnu smiled and put his foot on Bali's head.
Bali was immediately transported into the lowest among the fourteen /okas. Vishnu had now restored the earth to humans and the heavens to the gods. He was however very pleased with Bali's magnanimity and devotion to universal laws. He conferred on him the status as the doorkeeper of the 'outer most universal sheath'. He also promised to help him out whenever he was in need. At a later point in time, Vishnu actually took the job of a doorkeeper in Bali's palace at his behest!»
If one just contemplates on this story, it reveals everything about the nature, functioning and quality of Shravana. Vishnu taking the form of an innocent brahmin boy relates to the amiable, innocent front projected by this nakshatra. This nakshatra is clever in achieving its goals in much the same way as Vishnu was about achieving his. This nakshatra keeps to its word the same way Bali kept his word.
One interesting thing which comes out of this story is that Venus doesn't like to be placed in this asterism, seeing how this incident was detrimental to Shukracharya, who is intimately connected with the planet Shukra (Venus). This might seem odd as Capricorn is a friendly sign to Venus. In our view Venus does better in other parts of Capricorn in comparison with the Shravana part.
This story also brings out the highest expression of this nakshatra, which is upholding the universal law at all costs. Since '2' is seen as the number of perfection, the number '22' is regarded as '0' or a new beginning by ancient mystery schools. Even in the Tarot deck, the 22nd card does not exist. Instead there is a '0' card known as «The Fool». «The Fool» is a character, who is ready to jump into any unknown or foreign situation without any concern for the past, future or its consequences. If this character is receiving its impulses from the universal mind, then all the actions undertaken are fruitful and necessary. On the other hand, if this character is guided by the ego or other false external influences, the outcome is disaster. This character is what Shravana is all about.
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Vashishta, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «possessor of wealth», so the prosperity aspect of this nakshatra is reinforced from this angle as well.