Muhurta, Selection of Auspicious time in Vedic Astrology

Muhurta is the branch of Vedic astrology that deals with auspiciousness or otherwise of time. We discussed the importance of muhurta in US VP selection (Obama-Biden vs. McCain-Palin) and Google Chrome release in our recent blogs. Here we discuss the basic tools for determining a suitable Muhurta.

We need an ephemeris (also known as Panchanga, the five limbs) giving the astronomical computations of planetary positions. For success in any new venture, five elements must be chosen carefully. These are vara (weekday), tithi (lunar day), nakshatra (constellation or asterism), yoga and karana. These elements are easily determined from planetary positions and are explicitly listed in a Indian astrology ephemeris or Panchanga. In addition, for selecting a propitious moment or Muhurta, the Ascendant and moon must be strong, both at the time selected as well as in relation to the horoscope of the concerned individual, if known.

As an example, Tuesday and Saturday are avoided for auspicious activities, as Tuesday comes under the rulership of Mars (Kuja), the planet of strife, accident and turmoil while Saturday is ruled by Saturn or Shani representing delay, decay, obstruction and death. Regarding tithi, the full moon days, new moon days, the 4th,8th and 14th lunar days in both dark and bright halves are not recommended for any muhurta. Choice of nakshatra depends on the nature of the venture. Krittika, Bharani, Poorvaphalguni, Poorvashadha, Moola, Magha, Aslesha, Jyestha, Aridra and Poorvabhadra must be voided for all construction work. Besides these and other forbidden moments like rahukalam, gulika etc.., the horoscope of the defining moment must be analyzed. Similarly there are rules stated for other astrological time selections in muhurta treatises in Indian astrology.

Probability of success can be enhanced by choosing a proper muhurta for a new venture, be it new construction, undertaking of business trip, important surgery, buying home, starting school or even planning child birth (birth of Vyasa, the great composer of Mahabharata, was planned by Parashar, the father of Vedic Astrology). We urge all to use this wonderful component of Indian astrology in their daily lives to maximize success.