Rohini, the seed of lunar energy, is represented in the celestial firmament by a very bright pale rose star in the constellation of Taurus. This star is known in modern astronomy as Alpha-Tauri (Aldebaran). Aldebaran is one of the brightest stars in the night sky, with a visual magnitude of 0.99. In fact this unique pale rose star can even be spotted in the evening sky. The ancient vedic seers revered this star because this was supposed to be the abode of Brahma and the Prajapatis.
«Rohini» translates into — the «Reddish One» or the «Growing One». The «one» here carries a feminine tone and can be read as «celestial woman». The colour 'Red' evokes notions of warmth, passion and liveliness. The fact that in ancient cultures it was seen as the colour of abundance and prosperity, reveals some of the essential characteristics of Rohini. Its alternative names — Vidhlawu Viranchi, a name which relates to Brahma (the Creator among the Trinity) — reveal more sides of this fascinating nakshatra.
Rohini's main symbol is an Ox-Cart pulled by Two Oxen. Oxen have been used as fertility symbols by all ancient cultures. Even Taurus, the sign representing 'bounties of the earth', has a bull, ox or cow as its symbol. In countries like India, where Vedic civilization flourished, an ox cart was one of the only ways to transport various earth produces like crops over large distances. They serve the same function which trucks serve in the present day and age.
Just as the ox-cart carries the harvested and ready to use produce, Rohini is supposed to be the carrier of all the fruits of creation. Its relationship with the ox cart immediately suggests that it has a lot to do with all aspects of agriculture, cattle rearing and all other activities involving material produce. The «carrier» aspect of the ox-cart relates Rohini to all kinds of conveyances. An ox-cart is a very earthy symbol and as a matter of fact, Rohini is the most materialistic amongst the nakshatras. In ancient times ox-carts were the «wheels of commerce». Thus in the present day and age, Rohini relates to all kinds of commerce and financial dealings.
All the qualities normally associated with oxen like steadiness, fixidity and ability to romp over anything which comes in its way, find expression through Rohini. As a result of the ox cart symbolism, Rohini relates to the 'development of agriculture' and therefore 'civilization' itself. All the qualities normally ascribed to the sign Taurus such as — earthiness, fixidity, stability, creativity, productivity, material security, acquisitiveness, refinement, accumulating, luxury loving, indulgence, idealism in love, beauty and relationships — are mostly derived from Rohini's essential qualities.
Brahma, the creator among the governing Trinity of the universe, is the main presiding deity of Rohini. There are only three nakshatras which have one of the Trinity as its main presiding deity. This says a lot regarding the importance of this nakshatra, especially in regards to the affairs of Bhuloka (the earthly realm).
There are a lot of legends connecting Brahma to this nakshatra. The main legend relates to an earlier point of time in the history of the universe, when Brahma, after creating a daughter named Rohini, fell in love with her. From the Vedic point of view, every constellation is seen as a feminine goddess entity. Rohini's extraordinary charm and magnetism is made clear by the fact that Moon, whose duty it is to spend only a certain amount of time with each of these feminine figures in his monthly travel through the zodiac, at one point, refused to leave Rohini's abode. So it is not hard to see why Brahma fell for her and pursued her, despite the stigma attached with engaging in «cosmic incest»! However, he was stopped short in his chase by Shiva and had to be satisfied with just having the rulership of this nakshatra (please refer to the Esoteric Section of «Ardra»).
From this story it is clear that Rohini is the most alluring amongst all nakshatras. Just as money in the present day world spins people around, Rohini makes people and even Gods chase after it in every which way possible. Rohini relates to the wish-fulfilling creative aspect of nature, embodied by goddesses of prosperity like Laxmi, the spouse of Vishnu. Due to its association with Brahma, it has the ability to create anything which constitutes 'prosperity' and 'abundance' on any plane of existence. All Brahma does is «create, create and create» and the same is the case with Rohini. It is thus not hard to see that its services are much in demand in all the lokas (planes of existence). Rohini is that important productive aspect of Maya, which keeps the game of life-worth playing for those involved.
Rohini is the harbinger of agriculture and consequently «civilization», as we understand it, It is a very productive nakshatra which supports all types of growth. The growing of plants when we put seeds into the earth is a Rohini process. Rohini relates to the production of all types of amenities required for civilized living. When working through its higher plane, Rohini is only interested in use of products derived directly from nature. In its low aspect it indulges in all types of chemical, synthetic and man made products. The evolved Rohini types are usually true environmentalists and conservationists, while the lesser evolved ones promote unwholesome products like those of the present day cosmetic industry.
Rohini natives usually have large, clear and expressive eyes, refined feminine features, thick lower lip and a smiling countenance. They have a stable, earthy and well balanced way about them. They are as unresponsive to external stimuli as a cow. They only-open up in extremely intimate situations. Their unflinching quality often comes out as stubbornness. Despite their calm exteriors, they can be very expressive with their voice and gestures. They can act well, whenever necessary. They are smooth talkers and have gentle, seductive mannerisms.
They seek attention and more often than not are able to get it. They are extremely popular within their social circle because of their charisma. They often use their charm and social ease for manipulating situations to suit their own ends. This is obviously a good thing if their personal ends are in line with universal ends, but when this is not the case, they can be the most selfserving of all people. It is very easy for them to gain the trust of others, and in the present day and age, this is often used to derive some sort of material benefit.
They are both sexually alluring and indulgent at the same time. On the whole they have simplistic personalities. This makes them appear dull and boring to those natives who are ruled by more complex nakshatras. In Kaff-Yugathey often turn out to be plain materialists and sensualists. Rohini natives are always very concerned about being constructively productive in one way or the other. They want to be of use to their home, community or the world in general depending upon their level of soul functioning. The essential fertile nature of Rohini helps them achieve their goals without much fuss.
Rohini always facilitates the materialization of one's thoughts and desires. This ability to give expression to feelings and thoughts makes it artiste. Rohini is a true patron of the arts; and therefore the level of artistic sensibilities at any given point of time among the collective, defines the level where Rohini is working from. These days when the standards in arts have declined to really putrid or abominable levels, one can easily see that Rohini is working through its lower, baser expression in the majority of the populace.
Rohini natives have a tremendous fixidity of purpose and persevere until their will is done. They usually have strong family values and tend to support those within their close circle. It is not possible for those outside their inner circle to hold their attention for long as they are very quick to spot weaknesses in others. Despite their naturally fixed nature, they like to quickly flit through people when it comes to social and communal interactions. When working through their lower natures, Rohini natives are cool and suave opportunists who have a knack for extracting favours and financial support from others.
Rohini natives are usually conservative to a degree, but at the same time are open to new influences. The word 'conservative' is used here in all its implications. The conservation part of their nature comes out strongly when it comes to preserving the body. Rohini is very strongly related to the life force Within us. Most natives with a prominent Rohini are usually very careful about their health and live up to a ripe old age. In younger souls Rohini can cause a fear of death and dislike for the ageing process. The mantra of Rohini is to — create, create and create. Natives with Rohini connected to the 5th house in some form like to have lots of progeny.
Common english words like «robust», «romantic», «romeo», «rosy», «rose» seem to have the same root as the word «Rohini». All these terms give us clues to Rohini's functioning at different levels, especially in regards to the matter of enjoyment. Rohini is one of the most enjoyment-oriented nakshatras. It believes in making the most of the good things in life.
In the universal scheme of things, Rohini relates to «robana shakti» or the power to make things grow. Its symbolism has plants above and water below. This is obviously a representation of the feritility aspect of nature. Rohini is the force which makes possible the materialization of the astral impulses.
Rohini is considered to be a Balanced nakshatra. Those who are involved in any productive activity will understand the importance of balance in achieving desired results. Just as nature is creative and productive through the balance of heat and cold, light and dark, rain and shine, winter and summer etc., Rohini is methodical and balanced in its actions. In its negative aspect however, Rohini, like other balanced nakshatras, makes one go through life with the least amount of adventure possible. It can be ultra-conservative and reluctant to try new things which add to its wisdom and experience. On the positive side, it knows how to stay within the assigned life path, without unnecessary strain.
It belongs to the shudra caste. It may surprise some that Rohini is assigned this lowly caste. One has to understand that Rohini relates to the 'salt of the earth' people who are involved in activities directly dealing with the earth. Farmers (those who actually work in the fields) and construction workers, were all seen as belonging to the shudra caste in ancient times.
It is a Female nakshatra. Its association with the two feminine planets Moon and Venus make Rohini a primarily feminine energy.
It is also the fourth nakshatra and the number 4 represents the mothering principle in nature. Rohini is the asterism most related to the Earth, which is seen as a feminine entity in all ancient cultures.
The Forehead, Ankles, Shins and Calves of the Legs are the body parts related to this nakshatra.
It is a primarily «Kapha» (watery) nakshatra. This stems from its association with two primarily kapha planets, Moon and Venus, Among the three humors, kapha is most closely related to the earth element. This automatically makes Rohini a kapha nakshatra.
It is related primarily to south, south east and north west.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Aries Navamsa and is ruled by Mars. Passions and carnal nature are heightened here. The focus is on indulgence and extravagance. Planets here want quick-fire material results. Only a well placed Sun and Mars do well here. In its higher aspect this pada can make one a spiritual warrior fighting against exploitation on a material plane; On that level it is a purifying energy which combines spirituality with matter without differentiation.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Taurus Navamsa ruled by Venus. This pada best exemplifies all what Rohini stands for. Planets here usually give abundance and ability to conjure up required resources in the worst of conditions. The native however may tend to suffer from extreme materialism. This pada allows one to give expression to their thoughts and feelings through material means. Being a Vargottama pada it gives very strong results. This is the strongest pada in the zodiac when it comes to actualization and fulfillment of desires. Moon, Mercury, Venus and Saturn are especially strong here.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Gemini Navamsa ruled by Mercury. The focus of this pada is on arts, sciences and business. It is the most flexible and shrewd amongst Rohini's padas and has the power to accumulate wealth equivalent to the second pada. This is a lighthearted and jovial pada and has less chances of getting stuck on purely material issues in comparison to the previous pada. Mercury, Venus and Saturn give strong results in this pada.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism falls in Cancer Navamsa ruled by Moon. The focus here is on home and material security. Money comes in through short travels. Planets placed here have a maternal quality to them but can get excessively possessive and narrowminded. A lot of the worst qualities of Rohini like unnecessary hoarding are relayed through this pada. Only a well placed Moon or Jupiter function well here.
Farming; Agriculturists of all types; All professions relating with growing, processing and handling food; Botanists; Herbalists; Artists; Musicians; Entertainment and Leisure Industries; Fashion and Cosmetic Industry; Beauticians; Sex Therapists; Jewellers; Gemstone Dealers; Interior Decorators; Bankers and Financiers; Transportation Business; Tourism Industry; Automobile Industry; Oil and Petroleum Industry; Textile Industry; Shipping Industry; Food Production, Packaging and Distribution industry; All professions connected with Aquatic products and Liquids of all types.
Farms, Orchards, Gardens, Agricultural Estates, Places where herbs grow; Bus Stations, Train Stations and Shipping Yards; Ponds and Swimming Pools; Banks and Financial Institutions; Marketplaces; Bars, Restaurants, Hotels; Tourist Resorts; Studios for creative arts of all kinds; Places where gemstones are founds; All places connected with the above professions.
It is supposed to be a Rajasicnakshatra. This classification is obvious considering the materially productive quality of this nakshatra. The fact that it is related to Moon and Venus, two primarily rajasic planets, settles the issue.
It belongs to the Earth element. This is an obvious classification considering Rohini falls completely within the earth sign of Taurus. We have already touched upon its earthy quality many times throughout this chapter.
It is considered a Manusha or human nakshatra. Rohini's earthy quality and its association with agriculture and civilization makes it strongly involved in human affairs. It represents earth's bounties without which human beings cannot survive. It is the nakshatra which most strongly supports human life.
It is an Upward nakshatra. If we recall, one of the translations of Rohini's name is «the growing one». Thus it relates to all things which grow upwards like crops and buildings. We have already stated that any activity started in this nakshatra experiences growth, increase and expansion.
It is а dhruva (fixed or permanent) nakshatra. Its fixed nature is best exemplified by the behaviour pattern of oxen, its main animal symbol. Its permanence relates to the defined quality of nature, which ensures that the trees bear fruit every growing season and that the rivers flow from their source to the sea. In modern times, nature has become unreliable to an extent, only due to the destructive functionings of mankind. Still, she can be more or less relied upon to sustain the six billion of us.
Rohini relates to the second half of the lunar month of Karttika, which usually corresponds to the month of November in the solar calendar.
Rohini is also related to the Dvitiya (2nd tithi or day) of the waxing and waning phases of the Moon's monthly cycle.
Extremely favourable for initiating activities of all types; Favourable for farming activities like planting, sowing; Trading and financial dealings of all types; Good for marriage; All healing and self-improvement measures; Nature exploration and travelling in general; Beginning construction; Romance and sexual activity; Putting the material world in order; Purchase of clothes, jewellery, automobiles etc.
Not unfavourable for any action except those related to death, demolishing and destruction.
Moon and Venus are the two planets connected with Rohini. Moon is Rohini's main planetary ruler. The lunar energy imbues Rohini with primordial feminine energy. Venus is also related to shakti, the universal feminine force. The confluence of two feminine planets make Rohini a portal for material expression of shakti.
Moon's natural grace, nurturing ability and maternity combines with Venusian charm, creativity and productivity to make Rohini one of the most fruitful nakshatras. It is the most feminine amongst all the nakshatras and therefore the most receptive and productive. Just like Mother Earth, it provides for all without bias. In the present times however, Rohini is exploited, just as women and Mother Earth in general are exploited at the hands of dark forces which rule our planet. Rohini's bounrjfulness has been exploited to extreme levels through unbounded greed. This is the reason why most of the earth is polluted and most of the women troubled and unhappy. The ruling forces of the planet deliberately corrupt the feminine principle through the use of media.
Moon-Venus conjunction carries energy similar to Rohini. Moon, Mercury, Venus and Saturn express themselves strongly when placed in Rohini.
The first pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «O» as in Omega.
The second pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Va» as in Value.
The third pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Vi» as in Victor.
The fourth pada or quarter of this asterism corresponds to «Vu» as in Wood.
In the Sanskrit alphabet Rohini corresponds to «Rm» and «Lrm» consequently its mantras are «Om Rm» and «Om Lrm».
Its sexual animal is a Cobra. This makes Rohini exhibit serpent qualities in sexual union. The sarpas (celestial serpent beings) are regarded as being adepts at sexual activity. In fact Rohini is supposed to be the most sexually adept among all nakshatras. This is probably the reason why the Moon god was not ready to leave Rohini's abode. The representative goddess figurine of this nakshatra is supposed to be the master of all thirty-two principles of sexual union. Rohini is most compatible with Mrigashira, the other serpent nakshatra.
Since Rohini is the fourth nakshatra, all the qualities normally associated with the number '4' in Numerology form the basis of this nakshatras universal role. 4' is the number of structure and concreteness. The material universe takes form under the energies of this nakshatra. The fire of Krittika is transformed into the earth element. In the language of physics we can say that pure energy condenses to form physical atoms, molecules etc. Rohini is representative of Brahma'spovier to turn energy into mass (tangible matter).
In the modern day Tarot pack, the fourth card called «The Empress» represents Rohini's role in the game of life, as the «Great Fruitful Mother Goddess» representing fertility, warmth, passion and abundance. She is supposed to represent Maiaas she creates an earthly or material paradise. Rohini therefore can be seen as a channel through which the divine expresses itself through matter.
It is interesting to note that «The Empress» card carries the symbol of Venus, a planet very strongly connected with Rohini. The truth of the matter is that the word 'Tarot» is derived from the word «Taro», which in turn comes from the Sanskrit term «Tara» meaning «Star». All the 21 cards of the Major Arcana in this pack have been derived from the 21 main attributes of the great mother goddess «Тага» or «Jagdamba» in charge of universal affairs.
We all have to admit that pleasure and enjoyment on varying levels is the basis of the game of life. If it wasn't for Rohini, the universal mind would have a hard time sustaining the drama of life, as very few souls would be willing to play it.
This nakshatra is related to the Sage Atri, one of the seven celestial sages looking after the affairs of our galaxy. The name of this sage translates into «one who consumes». Atri seems to be a sage with a dual nature. He has rulership over two creative nakshatras and two destructive nakshatras. Rohini obviously relates to his productive side. From another point of view, Rohini can be seen as a devouring nakshatra, in the sense that it consumes souls through its excessive materialism.