Astrology is considered a science, and yet there are two very distinct streams of thought and interpretation – Vedic astrology vs Western astrology. This is not unlike other sciences such as medicine, where Western concepts have both similarities and differences with Indian disciplines like Ayurveda and Siddha. And yet, each has its own basis and foundation in science. Similarly, the differences between Vedic and western astrology do not take away from their merits.

There are some key differences in the astrology systems. While delving into these, we also explore Vedic astrology basics and Western astrology basics.

The Signs Of The Zodiac

Zodiac signs in Vedic astrology are different from the Zodiac signs in western astrology. Vedic astrology uses the sideral calendar for zodiac signs, whereas western astrology uses the tropical zodiac. This means your Vedic zodiac is determined by the moon and your western zodiac is determined by the sun. The same 12 zodiac signs exist in both streams of astrology, with the same names and meanings; however, the dates may vary slightly in some cases. For instance, you could be a western Gemini, but a Vedic Taurus.

The Impact of Constellations in Vedic Astrology

A key difference between Vedic and Western astrology is the use of nakshatras or constellations of stars. In Vedic astrology, the significance of Nakshatras has been highlighted, a concept that doesn’t exist in western astrology. In Vedic astrology there are 27 Nakshatrams otherwise known as ‘lunar mansions’. A person can be born under any one Nakshatram based on the date and time of their birth. Whichever Nakshatra or ‘mansion’ the moon occupies at that specific time, becomes their birth star. The moon travels through the 27 Nakshatras in a 28-day cycle. Therefore, each Nakshatra, occupies 13 degrees and 20 minutes. Based on the alignment of constellations, your Nakshatra governs your strengths and weaknesses, your fears and your talents. They help us understand ourselves better, enabling us to overcome any hidden difficulties.

Astrology Chart Interpretations

The birth charts in Vedic and Western astrology are also quite different. Western astrology uses a circular birth chart, divided into 12 slices and three portions – the innermost portion showing the houses, the outermost displaying the zodiacs, and the planets in between. A Vedic birth chart on the other hand is rectangular or square, again divided into twelve houses each of which represent an aspect of your life. The movement of planets and constellations are also represented in the chart.

Astrology Calculations Comparison

The way the calendar is calculated is another main difference between Vedic astrology and Western astrology. Western astrology measures time keeping one day as 24 hours, as per the rotation of the earth. On the other hand, Vedic astrology uses the procession of the equinox and also factors in earth’s rotation within the galaxy, so a day is 23 hours 56 minutes and six seconds. Hence the days, years, seasons and zodiac signs can vary slightly.

Planets

Planetary influences in Western astrology are different from those in Vedic astrology. Both streams consider the sun, moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn as planets. However, Western astrology has made provision for planets that were discovered later – Uranus, Neptune and Pluto (even though the last one has been declassified!). Vedic astrology does not do this, but it does factor in two shadow planets, which are the North and South nodes of the moon.

FAQs

Which is more accurate – Vedic or Western astrology? Both astrology types explained have their own merits. How Vedic astrology works is more detailed and nuanced, as it also considers dynamic aspects and moving celestial objects while basing its predictions and findings. It acknowledges that the world is constantly changing and this has an impact on our lives. How Western astrology works is in a more static and fixed manner. Therefore Vedic astrology is considered to be more detailed, in-depth and accurate.

Are there any similarities between Vedic and Western Astrology? Both Vedic and Western astrology believe in the Ascendent Sign, also known as the Rising Sign. This is nothing but the zodiac that was ascending in the east at the time of your birth, which goes on to become the starting point of your birth chart. This is not to be confused with your actual zodiac sign, which could be different. Different parameters to measure the ascendent, but they are united in their belief that it is a major influence.

What are the philosophies behind Vedic and Western astrology? Vedic astrology also encompasses the concepts of karma, dharma and reincarnation that are tied in with Hindu ideologies. On the other hand, Western astrology uses ancient Greek philosophies to base its principles.