Indian astrology is also known as Jyotish in Sanskrit which means divine light. Hindu Astrology is a relatively new name given to our ancient traditional system of Astrology during 19th Century. Jyotish has its roots in the period of Rig-Veda. It has been passed on as a divine science from our sages to modern man.

In the West, Astrology has been practiced more as a philosophy than a science. Astrology in western countries is synonymous to Fortune telling and Astronomy is called a science.

What is the difference between Western Astrology and Vedic Astrology?

1. While both the systems have 12 zodiac signs, the methodology used to divide the twelve zodiacs in a year is different for both the system of astrology. Western Astrology uses tropical or fixed zodiac system to define the divisional calculation while Vedic astrology uses a sidereal or moveable system called the ayanamsa method for divisions.

2. Vedic astrology the predictions are based on the date of birth and time of birth while in western system of astrology, date of birth plays vital importance.

3. Both Western and Vedic Astrology methods have 12 zodiac signs but in western astrology, the zodiac signs are based on the position of the sun. E.g. In western astrology, the Zodiac Sign Aries starts from March 21st and ends on April 19th. while Vedic Astrology prioritizes the position of the moon and that defines the Moon Sign or Rashi of an individual. Moon’s position is not considered as a key factor for calculations in western astrology,

4.     Karma plays an important role in Vedic Astrology and it is believed that the position of planets in one’s Janam Kundli is predestined as per one’s virtues from previous birth. Shadowy planets Rahu and Ketu demonstrate the karmic influences in a birth chart but such planets do not exist in western astrology.

5. The Ascendant or Rising sign at the time of birth plays a major role in horoscope analysis in Indian astrology and supports in precise calculation of life events

6. Vedic Astrology incorporates more than twenty divisional charts which are very mathematical and helps in landing at very refined life predictions

7. Matching of horoscope is one of the most important aspects of Vedic astrology. The horoscopes of prospective bride and groom are analyzed to ensure a smooth married life. In Indian tradition, the majority of marriages are arranged by families, and analyzing the horoscopes of the boy and the girl has been an age-old Hindu practice. Matching the horoscopes of two individuals provides deep insights into their personalities which aids in successful companionship. Western astrology does not follow such compatibility factors.

Conclusion:-

Vedic Astrology has documented evidence of accuracy in various life predictions compared to western astrology. Analysis of various divisional charts involves extensive mathematical calculations and delivers more accurate predictions about Marriage, Health, Longevity, Career, Marriage, and Spiritual life of an individual. This makes Vedic Astrology more scientific while western astrology carries a reputation of being more philosophical.