ASHLESHA

At the Ashlesha level, cosmic ideation has reached its lowest depth of materialization, after which it must begin the task of consolidation. Not only does the ism mark the culmination of the rajasic attribute at the primary level, it also prepares us for producing a spiritual impact due to sattwa guna at the secondary and tertiary levels. The asterism is ruled by Mercury but the deity presiding over it, the Naga or serpent, is replete with esoteric significance.

The asterism extends from 106° 40 to 120° 00' (16° 40' Cancer to 0° 00' Leo) and marks the termination of an important phase of cosmic ideation. Much of the significance of Ashlesha lies in understanding the symbol. Ashlesha is an intense energy capable of great spiritual attainment as well as material immersion. Duality is one of its important characteristics. The serpent symbol reveals a complex and often misunderstood psychological factor. Persons born under the influence of this asterism are often contradictory characters. They are deeply philosophical, thoughtful, austere, self-reliant and reclusive, but they can, on occasion, display crude selfishness and treacherous, immoral and venomous proclivities. They cannot bear humiliation. Under favorable conditions they can have much spiritual insight and possess hidden knowledge of the finer forces of Nature. The Mercurial intellect, benefic as well as malefic, is in affinity with Ashlesha.

Ashlesha imparts intellectual and mental development and enables its beneficiaries to undergo radical transformations in life-transformations which occur in the most unexpected manner. Afterwards, an entirely different condition of existence prevails.