Foundations of Jyotisha (Astrology)
This Proposed learning Capsule is non-credit, informal, and intended for general educational and informational purposes only. They do not constitute a course or academic program.
FACILITATOR / INSTRUCTOR GUIDE
Capsule : Foundations of Jyotisha (Astrology)
Duration: 8 Hours (4 sessions × 2 hours)
Prerequisite: Open to all
Description
This capsule introduces learners to the foundational elements of Jyotisha Shastra, the sacred science of time and cosmic intelligence. Participants explore Rāśis (zodiac signs), Grahas (planets), Bhāvas (houses), Nakshatras, and the ethical principles of interpretation and application.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the karmic and symbolic basis of Jyotisha.
- Identify the 12 zodiac signs, 9 planets, and 12 houses in a Vedic birth chart.
- Explain the basics of the Nakshatra system and Dasha cycles.
Curriculum
- Session 1: Cosmic Order & Karma – The Vedic View of Time
- Session 2: 12 Rashis, 9 Grahas & 12 Bhavas – The Vedic Chart
- Session 3: Nakshatra Basics & Dasha System
- Session 4: Ethical Practice of Jyotisha – Remedies and Right Use
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the symbolic and karmic basis of Jyotisha
- Interpret key elements of a basic Vedic chart
- Identify the practical applications and ethical limits of Jyotisha
Structure Overview
Session. Title Duration Delivery Mode Key Focus
1 Jyotisha & Cosmic Order 2 hrs Live / Recorded Philosophical basis, karma
2 Chart Elements I – Rashis, Grahas 2 hrs Live / Recorded Signs and planets
3 Chart Elements II – Bhavas, Nakshatras 2 hrs Live / Recorded Houses and lunar mansions
4 Application & Ethics 2 hrs Live / Recorded Interpretation, remedies, right conduct
Facilitator’s Spiritual Grounding
- Invoke your lineage (Guru-parampara) or personal Ishta Devata before the session.
- Anchor the session with a brief sankalpa: ‘May this knowledge serve the welfare of all beings and the environment.’
- Maintain a compassionate, non-judgmental tone; honor śraddhā (faith) and viveka (discernment).
Learner Engagement Tips
- Begin with a short invocation or 3 rounds of Om; end with a Shanti Mantra.
- Use Sanskrit terms with clear English gloss; invite questions with humility.
- Incorporate dyads (pair-sharing) and brief journaling to deepen reflection.
- Leverage breakout rooms (for live) or forum prompts (for LMS) for peer learning.
Post-Capsule Wrap-Up
- Share slides, recordings (if any), and reading list PDFs.
- Collect feedback ; compile insights for the future improvement.
- Suggest next-step pathways (advanced capsule or full program).
Fees:
The Registration Fee is USD 25.
We support excellence by providing merit-based scholarships and fee waivers to deserving students. If you need fee waiver or scholarship, apply here. Application for Fee waiver or Scholarship
Start Dates:
All capsule sessions will be offered four times a year, scheduled in alignment with the Vedic Calendar.
1. Uttarāyaṇa Period (Winter Solstice): Dec. 21 to 20 March
2. Devayāna Period (Vernal Equinox): 21 March to 20 June
3. Dakṣiṇāyana Period (Summer Solstice): 21 June to 22 Sept.
4. Pitṛyāna period (Autumn Equinox): 23 Sept. to 20 Dec.
Note: Access will remain open only for the specified duration. Participants are advised to complete and access all learning materials within this period, as access will not be available once the window closes.