The Sidereal System of Astrology

The Sidereal Astrology of Indian astrological system

The sidereal system of astrology is an alternative to the tropical system and is based on the concept of the zodiacs anchored to the fixed positions of the stars.. While the tropical zodiac is based on the Earth-Sun relationship and divides the ecliptic into twelve equal segments.

In the sidereal system, the zodiac signs are defined by the actual constellations in the sky. The starting point, known as the Aries point, is the position of the Sun at the vernal equinox, but it is measured against the backdrop of the fixed stars rather than being fixed to a specific calendar date.

Due to the precession of the equinoxes, the Earth’s axis slowly shifts over time, causing a change in the alignment between the tropical and sidereal zodiacs. This means that the sidereal zodiac gradually drifts backward in relation to the tropical zodiac, with a rate of about one degree every 72 years.

In sidereal astrology, the birth chart or horoscope is calculated based on the positions of celestial bodies in relation to the constellations of the sidereal zodiac. The aspects and houses, similar to the tropical system, are also considered in interpreting the chart.

Proponents of the sidereal system argue that it provides a more accurate reflection of the current positions of the stars and a more precise alignment of the zodiac signs with the constellations. They believe that this system offers a more precise understanding of an individual’s personality traits, life events, and astrological influences.

It’s worth noting that the tropical system remains the dominant system in Western astrology, while the sidereal system is more commonly associated with Vedic or Indian Hindu astrology. Different astrological traditions and practitioners may have their own preferences and interpretations regarding which system to use, based on their cultural background and personal beliefs.

Ultimately, whether one chooses the tropical or sidereal system of astrology is a matter of personal preference and the individual’s resonance with the system’s principles and interpretations. Both systems offer unique perspectives on astrology and can provide insights into different aspects of an individual’s life.