Jaimini Sutrardha Deepika [English]

Jaimini Sutrardha Deepika [English] By Anantha Sharma

There are two principal ancient systems in Astrology-Parasara System and Jaimini System. There are a good number of Classics written in Parasara System that are useful to learn or practice Parasara System. Brihat Parasara Hora Shastra (BPHS), Brihat Jatatka, Saravali, Jataka Parijatha, Phaladeepika, etc. All these classics are written in the form of Sanskrit Shlokas. But there are many commentaries for these classics written in different regional languages and English. So, astrology enthusiasts can learn Parasara Astrology even without a guru at least to some extent. Hence the Parasara System became very popular. But the story of Jaimini Astrology is different. There are only 3 original texts. 1. Vriddha Karika These are Sanskrit shlokas which explain the concepts and principles of Jaimini System. The author’s name is not known. Many Scholars are of the opinion that Maharshi Garga is the author of these Karikas. They do not contain any commentary. These Karikas available now explain the sutras given in first 2 adhyayas of Jaimini Upadesa Sutras (JUS) only. 2. Brihat Parasara Hora Shastra (BPHS) There are 7 Adhyayas in BPHS which explain the concepts and principles of Jaimini Astrology, mentioned in the first 2 adhyayas of Jaimini Sutras. The conent in BPHS matches with JUS except some minor differences. 3. Jaimini Sutras The Jaimini Sutras written by Sage Jaimini contains 4 adhyayas. Each of the 4 Adhyayas contains 4 padas each. So, in all there are 16 padas, and 924 Sutras. Of these 4 adhyayas, only 3 adhyayas have been considered. 1st Adhyaya deals with Karakamsa, Arudha Pada, Upapada, Ayurdaya, Graha and Rasi balas and Rajayogas.