Dhanishta
Dhanishtha (Devanagari: धनिष्ठा)(Kannada: ಧನಿಷ್ಟ)(Tamil: அவிட்டம்) is the twenty-third nakshatra in Hindu astronomy, corresponding to α to δ Delphini. It is also known as Dhanishtha or Avittam.[1] In Jyotiṣa, Dhanishta is ruled by Mangala (the planet Mars). Dhanishta is classified as a Movable nakshatra, meaning that, under electional astrological beliefs, it is best to begin activities like travel when the moon is in Dhanishta.[2]
The deities which preside over Dhanishta are the eight vasus: Agni, Prithvi, Vāyu, Antariksha, Āditya, Dyaus, Chandramas and Nakshatrani. The symbol most commonly used to represent Dhanishta is the drum known as the mridanga, and the flute.[3]
Traditional Hindu given names are determined by which pada (quarter) of a nakshatra the moon was in at the time of birth. In the case of Dhanista, the given name would begin with the following syllables:
- Ga (गा)
- Gi (गी)
- Gu (गु)
- Ge (गे)[4]
References
- ↑ http://www.mypanchang.com/nakshatras.html
- ↑ Hart De Fouw, Robert Svoboda. ‘’Light on Life: An Introduction to the Astrology of India.’’ 2003: pg. 206. ISBN 0-940985-69-1
- ↑ Bepin Behari, David Frawley. Myths & Symbols of Vedic Astrology. Lotus Press: 2003. ISBN 0-940985-51-9 pg. 238
- ↑ http://www.mypanchang.com/nakshatras.html