yagnas

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

Its inspiring to see your reverence for the Maharishi, and I am sure

your love for Jesus is equally profound and beautiful.

 

I look forward to hearing about your views on the need for 'yagnas'

at this point - now that Christ has come and made the supreme

sacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods and

the Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?

 

What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in the

group live by and recommend?

 

regards,

 

jgd,

 

Sanjay

 

 

--- On Fri, 5/15/09, Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidyaRe: Update on Jyotish Vidyajyotish-vidya Date: Friday, May 15, 2009, 11:57 AM

 

 

Dear Sanjay,///I am particularly appreciative of the way you periodically makecomparisons and references to the Bible, as the same truths arerepeated in many religions///Indeed you're correct! Without doubt the underlying truth of all bonafide religions is the same...just as the silent witness present in all of us is the same. Knowing this, how can anyone not find the same joy in all religious scriptures.Unfortunately, what has become known as religious fundamentalism, exists in all religions (Christianity included). Hatred rises through people's ignorance of the underlying truth of their own religion, and, of course, of themselves. As most here know, I am a Christian; but I could never find enough words to express my gratitude for what Maharishi gave me when he taught me to meditate and, as a consequence, opened my eyes to the Vedas.Maharishi guided me to my "Self" which

profoundly deepened my appreciation of my own religion. For this no words of gratitude can ever be enough... Jai Guru Dev.///On the website you make a reference to Jesus' yagna. Couldyou comment on the extent to which we have to continue performingyagnas for individual progress and our salvation, in light of BPHS andother classics. What are the guidelines that you recommend, or follow?///Certainly I can give you my thoughts on this. However (once again) it's getting quite late here now and I must get some rest...Best Wishes,Mrs. Wendyhttp://JyotishVidya .com____________ _________ _________ _______- "Sanjay Khanduja" <skhanduja ><jyotish-vidya>Friday, May 15, 2009 9:28 PMRe: Update on Jyotish VidyaDear Mrs. Wendy,Many thanks for the excellent article on comparing the two systems.There is a nice PS you have included in this mail about our lifespans.I am particularly appreciative of the way you periodically makecomparisons and references to the Bible, as the same truths arerepeated in many religions, and those among us like yourself thatcan see that are particularly gifted!On the website you make a reference to Jesus' yagna. Couldyou comment on the extent to which we have to continue performingyagnas for individual progress and our salvation, in light of BPHS andother classics. What are the guidelines that you recommend, or follow?regards,Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Dear Sanjay,

 

///now that Christ has come and made the supreme

sacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods and

the Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?///

 

Specific yagnas, done on our behalf, are generally for a specific karma

that is about to manifest...an action performed to divert the course

(consequence) of another action. Maharishi once explained this by using

the example of someone about to dive into a shallow pool from a high

board. Once the dive is commenced it's too late to divert the

consequences. However, if that action could be predicted in advance and a

safety net was placed between the diver and the pool, the consequences of

that action could be minimised.

 

The important thing here is that the timing must be perfect. A yagna is

of no use once the karma has manifested (the action commenced)...no use

shutting the stable door once the horse has bolted.

 

As for the sacrifice offered by Christ (on our behalf) it's necessary to

be receptive to that and to be aware of our own responsibility. When

Christ healed the sick and infirmed he would say; " Your sins are forgiven

you; Go and sin no more " . Well, of course, there are thousands of

Christians who go to church regularly and revert back to their sinful

actions as soon as they walk out the door. We know this is a sin, we know

that is a sin, but knowing and resisting the temptation are two entirely

different things.

 

I'm sure we all know that it can be a constant battle to rise above the

temptations of daily life. This is where prayer is so important...daily

prayer is the most effective way to resist temptation. You may be aware

of the Lord's prayer (the Our Father). Part of it goes like this:

 

" Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we

forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation

but deliver us from evil. "

 

As for those of other religions still needing yagnas etc., I firmly

believe that each person is most suited to his own religion and should

follow the dictums laid out according to his culture...the road is much

smoother that way, don't you think? Maharishi would often tell us that

it's not necessary to change our religion.

 

///What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in the

group live by and recommend?///

 

I look forward to hearing what others have to say on this topic :-))

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

-

" Sanjay Khanduja " <skhanduja

<jyotish-vidya >

Saturday, May 16, 2009 9:36 AM

Re: yagnas

 

 

 

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

Its inspiring to see your reverence for the Maharishi, and I am sure

your love for Jesus is equally profound and beautiful.

 

I look forward to hearing about your views on the need for 'yagnas'

at this point - now that Christ has come and made the supreme

sacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods and

the Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?

 

What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in the

group live by and recommend?

 

regards,

 

jgd,

 

Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Some interesting reading is available on the following website.http://sites.google.com/site/anshoomjain/It deals with true nature of Karma and human life.Kind regards,AnshoomMrs. Wendy <jyotishvidyajyotish-vidya Sent: Saturday, May 16, 2009 8:55:46 AMRe: yagnas

 

Dear Sanjay,

 

///now that Christ has come and made the supreme

sacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods and

the Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?///

 

Specific yagnas, done on our behalf, are generally for a specific karma

that is about to manifest...an action performed to divert the course

(consequence) of another action. Maharishi once explained this by using

the example of someone about to dive into a shallow pool from a high

board. Once the dive is commenced it's too late to divert the

consequences. However, if that action could be predicted in advance and a

safety net was placed between the diver and the pool, the consequences of

that action could be minimised.

 

The important thing here is that the timing must be perfect. A yagna is

of no use once the karma has manifested (the action commenced).. .no use

shutting the stable door once the horse has bolted.

 

As for the sacrifice offered by Christ (on our behalf) it's necessary to

be receptive to that and to be aware of our own responsibility. When

Christ healed the sick and infirmed he would say; "Your sins are forgiven

you; Go and sin no more". Well, of course, there are thousands of

Christians who go to church regularly and revert back to their sinful

actions as soon as they walk out the door. We know this is a sin, we know

that is a sin, but knowing and resisting the temptation are two entirely

different things.

 

I'm sure we all know that it can be a constant battle to rise above the

temptations of daily life. This is where prayer is so important... daily

prayer is the most effective way to resist temptation. You may be aware

of the Lord's prayer (the Our Father). Part of it goes like this:

 

"Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we

forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation

but deliver us from evil."

 

As for those of other religions still needing yagnas etc., I firmly

believe that each person is most suited to his own religion and should

follow the dictums laid out according to his culture...the road is much

smoother that way, don't you think? Maharishi would often tell us that

it's not necessary to change our religion.

 

///What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in the

group live by and recommend?// /

 

I look forward to hearing what others have to say on this topic :-))

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

____________ _________ _________ _______

 

-

"Sanjay Khanduja" <skhanduja >

<jyotish-vidya>

Saturday, May 16, 2009 9:36 AM

Re: yagnas

 

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

Its inspiring to see your reverence for the Maharishi, and I am sure

your love for Jesus is equally profound and beautiful.

 

I look forward to hearing about your views on the need for 'yagnas'

at this point - now that Christ has come and made the supreme

sacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods and

the Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?

 

What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in the

group live by and recommend?

 

regards,

 

jgd,

 

Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

Here is a slightly long answer with some queries (if you'll bear with me!).

 

I appreciate the excellent analysis you have given and your analogy about

the 'safety net' makes sense. My friend Dennis Harness (from American

College of Vedic Astrology) once used a similar example of a seat belt

stating:

 

" You may still have the accident, that is destined, but with a yagna it

would be more like putting on a seat belt in your car just prior. "

 

I particularly agree with your insights about the need to take personal

responsibility, and not fall into temptation (by just paying for a yagna,

and then turning our attention back towards the misdeeds that gave

birth to our sufferings in the first place). How true, we must learn the

commandments and not just read them, but live them.

 

Interestingly enough, Maharishi's foremost disciple founded the Art of

Living foundation and still promotes meditation and yoga (in the broad

sense of the word) but guides all devotees away from Jyotisha, and

does not have Vedic astrology as a subject or service in his group.

 

I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to believe

that He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter of

whom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic tradition

had become too top heavy and corrupt, with excessive reliance on

performing rituals and sacrifices. This included animal sacrifices etc,

similar to what the Hebrews were performing when Christ was sent

to reform and purify the practices that had become widespread.

 

I believe that yagnas are perhaps the Vedic technology (as Maharishi

used to say) that can relieve some of our karmic burden, however it

seems that authentic practitioners of vedic rituals and yagnas are

few and far between. How does one know?

 

Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell us

how to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified. And also

comment on whether Buddha's teachings of meditation and selfless

service or 'daan' are equally effective.

 

It seems to me that the Christian approach of tithing 10% of your income

regularly, "for the least among us", would be just as effective in bringing

grace into our lives, rather than only doing yagnas episodically?

 

I look forward to your inputs.

 

regards,

 

Sanjay

 

--- On Sat, 5/16/09, Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidyaRe: yagnasjyotish-vidya Date: Saturday, May 16, 2009, 8:55 AM

 

 

Dear Sanjay,///now that Christ has come and made the supremesacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods andthe Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?///Specific yagnas, done on our behalf, are generally for a specific karma that is about to manifest...an action performed to divert the course (consequence) of another action. Maharishi once explained this by using the example of someone about to dive into a shallow pool from a high board. Once the dive is commenced it's too late to divert the consequences. However, if that action could be predicted in advance and a safety net was placed between the diver and the pool, the consequences of that action could be minimised.The important thing here is that the timing must be perfect. A yagna is of no use once the karma has manifested (the action commenced).. .no use shutting the stable door once the horse has

bolted.As for the sacrifice offered by Christ (on our behalf) it's necessary to be receptive to that and to be aware of our own responsibility. When Christ healed the sick and infirmed he would say; "Your sins are forgiven you; Go and sin no more". Well, of course, there are thousands of Christians who go to church regularly and revert back to their sinful actions as soon as they walk out the door. We know this is a sin, we know that is a sin, but knowing and resisting the temptation are two entirely different things.I'm sure we all know that it can be a constant battle to rise above the temptations of daily life. This is where prayer is so important... daily prayer is the most effective way to resist temptation. You may be aware of the Lord's prayer (the Our Father). Part of it goes like this:"Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who

trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil."As for those of other religions still needing yagnas etc., I firmly believe that each person is most suited to his own religion and should follow the dictums laid out according to his culture...the road is much smoother that way, don't you think? Maharishi would often tell us that it's not necessary to change our religion.///What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in thegroup live by and recommend?// /I look forward to hearing what others have to say on this topic :-))Best Wishes,Mrs. Wendyhttp://JyotishVidya .com____________ _________ _________ _______- "Sanjay Khanduja" <skhanduja >To:

<jyotish-vidya>Saturday, May 16, 2009 9:36 AMRe: yagnasDear Mrs. Wendy,Its inspiring to see your reverence for the Maharishi, and I am sureyour love for Jesus is equally profound and beautiful.I look forward to hearing about your views on the need for 'yagnas'at this point - now that Christ has come and made the supremesacrifice. Do we still need yagnas, for so many Demi-gods andthe Navagrahas, repeatedly, and for how long?What is the guiding principle that you and learned members in thegroup live by and recommend?regards,jgd,Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Dear Sanjay,

 

///I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to

believe

that He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter of

whom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic tradition

had become too top heavy and corrupt...///

 

This is a valid point you raise and one I've been subtly trying to put

forward for some time now. In the Gita (4:06) it says; " Whenever there is

a decline in Dharma (righteousness) and a predominance of Adharma

(unrighteousness), O Arjuna, then I manifest myself. I appear fom time to

time for protecting the good, for transforming the wicked, and for

establishing world order (Dharma). "

 

Vedic atrology was never intended to be used for fortune telling, but to

awaken the intellect to a greater understanding of creation and our

intimate relationship with the manifest universe seen through the eyes of

God. Sadly, for many, many centuries this high principle has been on the

decline, and it's now (almost) universally accepted that the prime

purpose of jyotish is to predict. People flood these groups demanding

" Hey! tell me my future! " ...they don't even feign respect.

 

Below are a few words from the gospel of Luke 12: 25-31 (King James

Version) supporting the above comments.

 

**And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?

If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye

thought for the rest?

Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet

I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of

these.

If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to

morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of

little faith?

And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye

of doubtful mind.

For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your

Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.

But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be

added unto you.**

 

///Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell us

how to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified.///

 

This is a topic I also feel strongly about. I do know of a person,

hardly qualified as an astrologer, who organises yagnas on his website.

My view on this is that the ability to recite the Vedas is not the only

criterea needed to perform yagnas...the level of awareness (state of

consciousness) of the pandits is also vitally important.

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

-

" Sanjay Khanduja " <skhanduja

<jyotish-vidya >

Sunday, May 17, 2009 2:16 AM

Re: yagnas

 

 

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

Here is a slightly long answer with some queries (if you'll bear with

me!).

 

I appreciate the excellent analysis you have given and your analogy about

the 'safety net' makes sense. My friend Dennis Harness (from American

College of Vedic Astrology) once used a similar example of a seat belt

stating:

 

" You may still have the accident, that is destined, but with a yagna it

would be more like putting on a seat belt in your car just prior. "

 

I particularly agree with your insights about the need to take personal

responsibility, and not fall into temptation (by just paying for a yagna,

and then turning our attention back towards the misdeeds that gave

birth to our sufferings in the first place). How true, we must learn the

commandments and not just read them, but live them.

 

Interestingly enough, Maharishi's foremost disciple founded the Art of

Living foundation and still promotes meditation and yoga (in the broad

sense of the word) but guides all devotees away from Jyotisha, and

does not have Vedic astrology as a subject or service in his group.

 

I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to believe

that He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter of

whom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic tradition

had become too top heavy and corrupt, with excessive reliance on

performing rituals and sacrifices. This included animal sacrifices etc,

similar to what the Hebrews were performing when Christ was sent

to reform and purify the practices that had become widespread.

 

I believe that yagnas are perhaps the Vedic technology (as Maharishi

used to say) that can relieve some of our karmic burden, however it

seems that authentic practitioners of vedic rituals and yagnas are

few and far between. How does one know?

 

Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell us

how to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified. And also

comment on whether Buddha's teachings of meditation and selfless

service or 'daan' are equally effective.

 

It seems to me that the Christian approach of tithing 10% of your income

regularly, " for the least among us " , would be just as effective in

bringing

grace into our lives, rather than only doing yagnas episodically?

 

I look forward to your inputs.

 

regards,

 

Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs Wendy,

Infact even yagnas when advised by the courtiers(Raj Guru) in Kingdom,they were advised for performance for mundane purposes so that the people in genarl get benifit out of such prayers and sacrifices but not to any specific individuals

It is thoughtful of you to have cited these valuable lines: //to awaken the intellect to a greater understanding of creation and our intimate relationship with the manifest universe seen through the eyes of God. Sadly, for many, many centuries this high principle has been on the decline, and it's now (almost) universally accepted that the prime purpose?

If the trend is to to see study of the future the purpose of the jyotish will be lost and it should not be encouraged for study of chart.

All of us in life may be expereiencing one or other problem but ou strong conviction:rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.** is the most appropriate suggestion that needs to be conveyed

regards

vrkrishnan--- On Sun, 5/17/09, Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidyaRe: yagnasjyotish-vidya Date: Sunday, May 17, 2009, 3:54 AM

 

 

Dear Sanjay,///I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to believethat He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter ofwhom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic traditionhad become too top heavy and corrupt...// /This is a valid point you raise and one I've been subtly trying to put forward for some time now. In the Gita (4:06) it says; "Whenever there is a decline in Dharma (righteousness) and a predominance of Adharma (unrighteousness) , O Arjuna, then I manifest myself. I appear fom time to time for protecting the good, for transforming the wicked, and for establishing world order (Dharma)."Vedic atrology was never intended to be used for fortune telling, but to awaken the intellect to a greater understanding of creation and our intimate relationship with the manifest universe seen through the eyes of God. Sadly,

for many, many centuries this high principle has been on the decline, and it's now (almost) universally accepted that the prime purpose of jyotish is to predict. People flood these groups demanding "Hey! tell me my future!"...they don't even feign respect.Below are a few words from the gospel of Luke 12: 25-31 (King James Version) supporting the above comments.**And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither

be ye of doubtful mind.For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.**///Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell ushow to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified.// /This is a topic I also feel strongly about. I do know of a person, hardly qualified as an astrologer, who organises yagnas on his website. My view on this is that the ability to recite the Vedas is not the only criterea needed to perform yagnas...the level of awareness (state of consciousness) of the pandits is also vitally important.Best Wishes,Mrs. Wendyhttp://JyotishVidya .com____________ _________ _________ _______-

"Sanjay Khanduja" <skhanduja ><jyotish-vidya>Sunday, May 17, 2009 2:16 AMRe: yagnasDear Mrs. Wendy,Here is a slightly long answer with some queries (if you'll bear with me!).I appreciate the excellent analysis you have given and your analogy aboutthe 'safety net' makes sense. My friend Dennis Harness (from AmericanCollege of Vedic Astrology) once used a similar example of a seat beltstating:" You may still have the accident, that is destined, but with a yagna itwould be more like putting on a seat

belt in your car just prior. "I particularly agree with your insights about the need to take personalresponsibility, and not fall into temptation (by just paying for a yagna,and then turning our attention back towards the misdeeds that gavebirth to our sufferings in the first place). How true, we must learn thecommandments and not just read them, but live them.Interestingly enough, Maharishi's foremost disciple founded the Art ofLiving foundation and still promotes meditation and yoga (in the broadsense of the word) but guides all devotees away from Jyotisha, anddoes not have Vedic astrology as a subject or service in his group.I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to believethat He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter ofwhom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic traditionhad become too top heavy and corrupt, with

excessive reliance onperforming rituals and sacrifices. This included animal sacrifices etc,similar to what the Hebrews were performing when Christ was sentto reform and purify the practices that had become widespread.I believe that yagnas are perhaps the Vedic technology (as Maharishiused to say) that can relieve some of our karmic burden, however itseems that authentic practitioners of vedic rituals and yagnas arefew and far between. How does one know?Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell ushow to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified. And alsocomment on whether Buddha's teachings of meditation and selflessservice or 'daan' are equally effective.It seems to me that the Christian approach of tithing 10% of your incomeregularly, "for the least among us", would be just as effective in bringinggrace into our lives, rather than only doing yagnas

episodically?I look forward to your inputs.regards,Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Dear vrkrishnan,

 

It's a delicate balance, isn't it :-)

 

We don't leave the Gita or Bible hidden away in a cupboard, but rather

keep them in view to read whenever in need of quite reflection. So it is

with jyotish! Studying horoscopes and engaging in discussion sharpens our

intellect and increases our awareness of the invincible laws of creation

(creative intelligence) that permeate everything. To my mind, jyotish is

a step out of ignorance.

 

It's only natural for people to seek relief from their suffering. But,

like I said, it's a matter of balance. Those who visit these groups

demanding remedies in a disrespectful manner, expecting learned

astrologers to hand out remedies like doctors hand out pills, are being

disrespectful to this holy science...that attitude is what (I feel)

should be discouraged, don't you agree?

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

-

" vattem krishnan " <bursar_99

<jyotish-vidya >

Sunday, May 17, 2009 8:01 PM

Re: yagnas

 

 

Dear Mrs Wendy,

Infact even yagnas when advised by the courtiers(Raj Guru) in

Kingdom,they were advised for performance for mundane purposes so that

the people in genarl get benifit out of such prayers and sacrifices but

not to any specific individuals

It is thoughtful of you to have cited these valuable lines:

//to awaken the intellect to a greater understanding of creation and our

intimate relationship with the manifest universe seen through the eyes of

God. Sadly, for many, many centuries this high principle has been on the

decline, and it's now (almost) universally accepted that the prime

purpose?

If the trend is to to see study of the future the purpose of the jyotish

will be lost and it should not be encouraged for study of chart.

All of us in life may be expereiencing one or other problem but ou strong

conviction:rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall

be

added unto you.** is the most appropriate suggestion that needs to be

conveyed

 

regards

vrkrishnan

[Guest guest]

Respected Mrs. Wendy,

 

This passage from the Gospel of Luke is really comforting and deepens

one's faith, if taken to heart. I must agree God and his celestial army

know well what His creation needs, and some of those things are

actually bitter fruits to cleanse us, although we prefer mangoes all

the time. ;-))

 

Jyotish vidya has in recent years come into the hands of dishonourable

or shall we say commercially motivated souls. Nonetheless, we are

grateful to you and a few others who are true academics, and are faith-

ful to the letter and spirit of the teachings.

 

While I can certainly see that the pundits who perform yagnas also need

a livelihood, and this is their sacred duty or dharma, we can all see that

there is tremendous variation in what they do and say, and sometimes

they are not fully informed or well read (particularly in this Kaliyuga).

 

If any of members can point to a guideline from the scriptures about

what is the extent to which individual yagnas must be requested, or

performed, as it can be an endless process (and even if we are to do

them, until our passing day, there must be some precise guideline

from the great masters such as Parashara and Jaimini)?

 

 

In light of your auspicious quotation from the Gita (4:06), and the fact that

Buddha is also an incarnation of Lord Vishnu (much like Krishna), perhaps

it is time to follow His guidelines now?

 

I realize there is something called Buddhist or Tibetan astrology but to

my knowledge they don't prescibe yagnas.

 

regards,

 

Sanjay

 

--- On Sun, 5/17/09, Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidyaRe: yagnasjyotish-vidya Date: Sunday, May 17, 2009, 2:54 AM

 

 

Dear Sanjay,///I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to believethat He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter ofwhom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic traditionhad become too top heavy and corrupt...// /This is a valid point you raise and one I've been subtly trying to put forward for some time now. In the Gita (4:06) it says; "Whenever there is a decline in Dharma (righteousness) and a predominance of Adharma (unrighteousness) , O Arjuna, then I manifest myself. I appear fom time to time for protecting the good, for transforming the wicked, and for establishing world order (Dharma)."Vedic atrology was never intended to be used for fortune telling, but to awaken the intellect to a greater understanding of creation and our intimate relationship with the manifest universe seen through the eyes of God. Sadly,

for many, many centuries this high principle has been on the decline, and it's now (almost) universally accepted that the prime purpose of jyotish is to predict. People flood these groups demanding "Hey! tell me my future!"...they don't even feign respect.Below are a few words from the gospel of Luke 12: 25-31 (King James Version) supporting the above comments.**And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit?If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither

be ye of doubtful mind.For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things.But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.**///Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell ushow to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified.// /This is a topic I also feel strongly about. I do know of a person, hardly qualified as an astrologer, who organises yagnas on his website. My view on this is that the ability to recite the Vedas is not the only criterea needed to perform yagnas...the level of awareness (state of consciousness) of the pandits is also vitally important.Best Wishes,Mrs. Wendyhttp://JyotishVidya .com____________ _________ _________ _______-

"Sanjay Khanduja" <skhanduja ><jyotish-vidya>Sunday, May 17, 2009 2:16 AMRe: yagnasDear Mrs. Wendy,Here is a slightly long answer with some queries (if you'll bear with me!).I appreciate the excellent analysis you have given and your analogy aboutthe 'safety net' makes sense. My friend Dennis Harness (from AmericanCollege of Vedic Astrology) once used a similar example of a seat beltstating:" You may still have the accident, that is destined, but with a yagna itwould be more like putting on a seat belt in your car just prior. "I particularly agree with your insights about the need to take personalresponsibility, and not fall into temptation (by

just paying for a yagna,and then turning our attention back towards the misdeeds that gavebirth to our sufferings in the first place). How true, we must learn thecommandments and not just read them, but live them.Interestingly enough, Maharishi's foremost disciple founded the Art ofLiving foundation and still promotes meditation and yoga (in the broadsense of the word) but guides all devotees away from Jyotisha, anddoes not have Vedic astrology as a subject or service in his group.I have often wondered about the reasons and my inclination is to believethat He is promoting the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha (the latter ofwhom as you know was also a reformist, and found that the Vedic traditionhad become too top heavy and corrupt, with excessive reliance onperforming rituals and sacrifices. This included animal sacrifices etc,similar to what the Hebrews were performing when Christ was

sentto reform and purify the practices that had become widespread.I believe that yagnas are perhaps the Vedic technology (as Maharishiused to say) that can relieve some of our karmic burden, however itseems that authentic practitioners of vedic rituals and yagnas arefew and far between. How does one know?Maybe our learned members can share some experiences and tell ushow to find Vedic scholars who are authentic and qualified. And alsocomment on whether Buddha's teachings of meditation and selflessservice or 'daan' are equally effective.It seems to me that the Christian approach of tithing 10% of your incomeregularly, "for the least among us", would be just as effective in bringinggrace into our lives, rather than only doing yagnas episodically?I look forward to your inputs.regards,Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Dear Sanjay,

 

///I realize there is something called Buddhist or Tibetan astrology but

to

my knowledge they don't prescibe yagnas.///

 

Actually Tibetan astrology does employ certain rituals (performed by

monks) to remove obstacles caused by negative planetary influences.

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

I am pleased to learn about Buddhist monks perfoming rituals.

I suppose they probably go by a different name.

 

What are they called, and are they fire rituals similar to yagnas?

 

Also in your research have you come across any writing about

what realistically can be achieved via yagnas, and vedic remedies.

In other words the extent to which one can expect a reprieve or

pardon for one's karmas (at most 20-30% or something like that?).

 

regards,

 

Sanjay

 

s. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidyaRe: yagnasjyotish-vidya Date: Monday, May 18, 2009, 2:09 AM

 

 

Dear Sanjay,///I realize there is something called Buddhist or Tibetan astrology but tomy knowledge they don't prescibe yagnas.///Actually Tibetan astrology does employ certain rituals (performed by monks) to remove obstacles caused by negative planetary influences.Best Wishes,Mrs. Wendyhttp://JyotishVidya .com____________ _________ _________ _______

[Guest guest]

Dear Sanjay,

 

///What are they called, and are they fire rituals similar to yagnas?///

 

I'm not sure? However you might find the following link helpful. It also

has links to other sites which I haven't (as yet) had time to look at.

http://kalachakranet.org/ta_tibetan_astrology.html

 

I do have a software program " Tibetan Astrology " ...had it for a very long

time although it's not installed on my computer at the moment...haven't

looked at it in years.

 

///Also in your research have you come across any writing about

what realistically can be achieved via yagnas, and vedic remedies.///

 

I personally have never had one done and don't know of anyone

(personally) who has. I suppose the benefit of a yagna, like anything

else, depends on many factors i.e. timing, nature of karma, quality of

those performing the yagna etc..

 

PS: Members please correct me if in error here, but as I understand a

yagna is essentially a sacrifice i.e. the pandits, whilst reciting

certain vedic texts, make an offering of ghee, rice to the fire; and, as

I think you might have mentioned, in earlier times animals were

sacrificed.

 

Oh! and while I think of it, have you heard of Agnihotra? I started doing

this some years ago, but got out of the routine when I had to spend some

time in hospital and never really got back into it, I'm afraid. The

following link is worth reading :-)

http://www.agnihotraindia.com/origin.asp

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

-

" Sanjay Khanduja " <skhanduja

<jyotish-vidya >

Tuesday, May 19, 2009 9:56 PM

Re: yagnas

 

 

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

I am pleased to learn about Buddhist monks perfoming rituals.

I suppose they probably go by a different name.

 

What are they called, and are they fire rituals similar to yagnas?

 

Also in your research have you come across any writing about

what realistically can be achieved via yagnas, and vedic remedies.

In other words the extent to which one can expect a reprieve or

pardon for one's karmas (at most 20-30% or something like that?).

 

regards,

 

Sanjay

[Guest guest]

Wendy ji,

 

///PS: Members please correct me if in error here, but as I understand a yagna

is essentially a sacrifice i.e. the pandits, whilst reciting certain vedic

texts, make an offering of ghee, rice to the fire; and, as I think you might

have mentioned, in earlier times animals were sacrificed.///

 

You are right. Earlier animals were sacrificed, but later, people used a pumpkin

inside which kumkum, a red powder, is added. When this is cut/smashed, it looks

like the flesh of a killed animal!

 

Breaking coconuts also comes from this--in lieu of killing some animal, a

coconut was broken.

 

All yagnas involve a sacrifice. That is why 'namaha' is chanted during yagnas.

Namaha expands to 'na mamaha' or ‘not mine'.

 

So you are saying that what you are offering in the fire is not yours--the

concept of vairagya is critical for most yagnas, though some yagnas were done to

show one's level, like Ashwamedha Yagna and Rajasuya Yagna.

 

I'm sure that you have heard the story of the mongoose and Yudishtira, which

illustrates the superiority of vairagya in yagnas as compared to yagnas where

one does something to show one's power or overlordship.

 

Here's a link:

 

http://www.boloji.com/rt2/rt123.htm

 

Here's a link to a magazine cover featuring the golden mongoose:

 

http://www.indiaplaza.com/productimages/books/magazines/images/L17dec_8175081953\

..jpg

 

~~~~~~~~~

Balaji Narasimhan

Author & Editor

http://www.balaji.ind.in/

~~~~~~~~~

[Guest guest]

Many thanks dear Balaji,

 

I did enjoy reading that story and agree wholeheartedly with the

sentiment...reminds me of the following verse.

 

" Truly Truly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all

those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their

abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole

livelihood. " (Mark 12)

 

 

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

 

-

" Balaji Narasimhan " <sherlockbalaji

<jyotish-vidya >

Wednesday, May 20, 2009 2:16 PM

Re: yagnas

 

 

 

Wendy ji,

 

///PS: Members please correct me if in error here, but as I understand a

yagna is essentially a sacrifice i.e. the pandits, whilst reciting

certain vedic texts, make an offering of ghee, rice to the fire; and, as

I think you might have mentioned, in earlier times animals were

sacrificed.///

 

You are right. Earlier animals were sacrificed, but later, people used a

pumpkin inside which kumkum, a red powder, is added. When this is

cut/smashed, it looks like the flesh of a killed animal!

 

Breaking coconuts also comes from this--in lieu of killing some animal, a

coconut was broken.

 

All yagnas involve a sacrifice. That is why 'namaha' is chanted during

yagnas. Namaha expands to 'na mamaha' or ‘not mine'.

 

So you are saying that what you are offering in the fire is not

yours--the concept of vairagya is critical for most yagnas, though some

yagnas were done to show one's level, like Ashwamedha Yagna and Rajasuya

Yagna.

 

I'm sure that you have heard the story of the mongoose and Yudishtira,

which illustrates the superiority of vairagya in yagnas as compared to

yagnas where one does something to show one's power or overlordship.

 

Here's a link:

 

http://www.boloji.com/rt2/rt123.htm

 

Here's a link to a magazine cover featuring the golden mongoose:

 

http://www.indiaplaza.com/productimages/books/magazines/images/L17dec_8175081953\

..jpg

 

~~~~~~~~~

Balaji Narasimhan

Author & Editor

http://www.balaji.ind.in/

~~~~~~~~~

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

I am not correcting anybody's views on yagna or Yagya or Yaagam. Sometime back,

I have seen this small clip on Yagya on Youtube.

 

Those who are interested kindly visit. I am no way connected with the

organisation and posting this link should not be construed as a promotional

activity of any sort.

 

 

Regards, C.S. Ravindramani.

 

 

>>>>PS: Members please correct me if in error here, but as I understand a yagna

is essentially a sacrifice i.e. the pandits, whilst reciting certain vedic

texts, make an offering of ghee, rice to the fire; and, as I think you might

have mentioned, in earlier times animals were sacrificed.>>>>>

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs.Wendy,That's interesting!.Based on my learnings buddhist are against yagnas. Can you please let me know few things like, whom they worship during yagna, how it is being performed etc.?Thanks

KeshavPS: I am a new member of this group. I recently started learning astrology.On Mon, May 18, 2009 at 12:39 PM, Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dear Sanjay,

 

///I realize there is something called Buddhist or Tibetan astrology but

to

my knowledge they don't prescibe yagnas.///

 

Actually Tibetan astrology does employ certain rituals (performed by

monks) to remove obstacles caused by negative planetary influences.

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

[Guest guest]

Dear Ravindramani,

 

Many thanks for that :-)

 

I've downloaded the clip to my desktop. For me, the effect of (transit)

Saturn, aspected by transit Jupiter in Aquarius, resuming direct motion

and travelling once again towards 9th bhava, has resulted in an absolute

smorgasbord of (devotional) YouTube clips over the last couple of

days...like a child being let loose in a chocolate factory, I'm savouring

this with absolute delight :-)

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

-

" ravindramani " <ravindramani

<jyotish-vidya >

Wednesday, May 20, 2009 5:53 PM

Re: yagnas

 

 

Dear Mrs. Wendy,

 

I am not correcting anybody's views on yagna or Yagya or Yaagam.

Sometime back, I have seen this small clip on Yagya on Youtube.

 

Those who are interested kindly visit. I am no way connected with the

organisation and posting this link should not be construed as a

promotional activity of any sort.

 

 

Regards, C.S. Ravindramani.

 

 

>>>>PS: Members please correct me if in error here, but as I understand a

>>>>yagna is essentially a sacrifice i.e. the pandits, whilst reciting

>>>>certain vedic texts, make an offering of ghee, rice to the fire; and,

>>>>as I think you might have mentioned, in earlier times animals were

>>>>sacrificed.>>>>>

[Guest guest]

Dear Keshav,

 

Actually I don't recall saying that yagnas (per se) were employed in

Tibetan astrology. What I said was that certain rituals were

performed...a ritual could mean some puja or ceremony for instance. But I

never said Tibetan astrology made use of yagnas.

 

At the time I purchased the Tibetan Astrology (TA) software I also bought

a book on TA by Philippe Cornu...it too has been just gathering dust on

my bookshelf for the past decade. However, I've just dusted it off and

turning to the section on " special days and religious festivals " it says

that, in the monasteries, the monks and lamas perform rituals and

offerings (pujas) to the Dharmapalas (the protective deities of Buddhism)

in order to persuade them to remove obstacles and demons. They also offer

prayers to Dharmapalas, asking them to protect the new year and bring

about favourable circumstances.

 

Tibetan astrology teaches that religious practice will create a better

life by purifying karmic potentials, and an astrologer can advise on

suitable practice and amulets.

 

I regret I cannot be of much more help than this as I never really made a

deep enough study of Tibetan Astrology...just skimmed the surface,

really...out of curiosity :-)

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

 

-

" Keshav V " <mv.keshav

<jyotish-vidya >

Wednesday, May 20, 2009 6:22 PM

Re: yagnas

 

 

Dear Mrs.Wendy,

 

That's interesting!.

 

Based on my learnings buddhist are against yagnas. Can you please let me

know few things like, whom they worship during yagna, how it is being

performed etc.?

 

Thanks

Keshav

 

PS: I am a new member of this group. I recently started learning

astrology.

[Guest guest]

Dear Mrs. Wendy,ok. May be I misread that!Thank for your details.Best RegardsKeshavOn Wed, May 20, 2009 at 6:16 PM, Mrs. Wendy <jyotishvidya wrote:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dear Keshav,

 

Actually I don't recall saying that yagnas (per se) were employed in

Tibetan astrology. What I said was that certain rituals were

performed...a ritual could mean some puja or ceremony for instance. But I

never said Tibetan astrology made use of yagnas.

 

At the time I purchased the Tibetan Astrology (TA) software I also bought

a book on TA by Philippe Cornu...it too has been just gathering dust on

my bookshelf for the past decade. However, I've just dusted it off and

turning to the section on " special days and religious festivals " it says

that, in the monasteries, the monks and lamas perform rituals and

offerings (pujas) to the Dharmapalas (the protective deities of Buddhism)

in order to persuade them to remove obstacles and demons. They also offer

prayers to Dharmapalas, asking them to protect the new year and bring

about favourable circumstances.

 

Tibetan astrology teaches that religious practice will create a better

life by purifying karmic potentials, and an astrologer can advise on

suitable practice and amulets.

 

I regret I cannot be of much more help than this as I never really made a

deep enough study of Tibetan Astrology...just skimmed the surface,

really...out of curiosity :-)

 

Best Wishes,

Mrs. Wendy

http://JyotishVidya.com

___

 

-

" Keshav V " <mv.keshav

<jyotish-vidya >

Wednesday, May 20, 2009 6:22 PM

Re: yagnas

 

Dear Mrs.Wendy,

 

That's interesting!.

 

Based on my learnings buddhist are against yagnas. Can you please let me

know few things like, whom they worship during yagna, how it is being

performed etc.?

 

Thanks

Keshav

 

PS: I am a new member of this group. I recently started learning

astrology.