History of Astrology

Astrology at the time of Mahabharata

All the ancient epics have mentioned the usage of astrological science in various aspects of life during Mahabharata era. Its description is present in 64th chapter of “Anushashan Parva”. In this book, the significance of donation in various Nakshatra is described. Astrology was also used to find Muhurtas and to perform auspicious rites. This book also contains classification of  auspicious and inauspicious nakshatras. Along with this, it also contains the facts related with the birth of Yudhisthira.

According to this book, Yudhisthira took birth in Jyeshtha nakshatra, in eighth Muhurta of noon on Monday on the day of Poornima. This description of the birth of Yudhisthira verifies the significance of astrology in that period. It also proves that the people of that age had exalted and enhanced knowledge of astrology. Saturn and Mars were considered inauspicious planets at that time also. Kings used to decide the date of battle based upon the position of Mars.

Another book of astrology refers to chapter 143 of “Udyog Parva” in which Sri Krishna and Karna are mentioned. This book tells us that Saturn was transitting in Rohini Nakshatra when the battle of Mahabharata was fought. The battle begin on the onset of Solar Eclipse. This increased the possibilities of havoc during the war.

Therefore, from all these evidences we can say that astrology was well developed during the time of Mahabharata.