JYESHTA

Jyeshta extends from 226° 40' to 240° 00' (16° 40' Scorpio to 0° 00' Sagittarius), marking the termination of the primary impulse of tamas or inertia. At this stage, though the tamasic proclivities remain primary, sattwic attributes have begun to flow freely at the secondary and tertiary levels. The ruling planet is Mercury, whereas the zodiacal sign belongs to Mars; the four quarters of the nakshatra are ruled by Jupiter and Saturn. The Vedic deity is Indra, the king of the gods. The asterism is symbolized by an umbrella or an earring, both of which are status symbols indicating worldly and spiritual attainments. What seers call the Serpent Power (kundalini) is the primeval energy flowing through this asterism. It greatly energizes and strengthens any aspect of life affected by its influence. This force is capable of bestowing immense power on those who can rightly develop it, but it is dangerous if such control cannot be maintained.

Jyeshta means eldest sister and middle finger, as well as eminent, distinguished, and honorable. Its synonyms, such as Kulisatara, (Indra's star), Satamakha (Indra's sacrifice), and Suraswami (Indra, the god of gods), all refer to the most important of the gods. The asterism activates the best, highest, and most coveted qualities. Describing the asterism as "sister," which implies respect, also ascribes a generative power to the asterism. Jyeshta produces conditions which sustain society.

Jyeshta bestows honorable status. The earring and umbrella are both status symbols. The development of Kundalini Shakti or the Serpent Power opens up the possibility of subjugating Nature's finer forces and directing them to effective and supernormal uses. It also unveils hidden spiritual knowledge and wisdom. At this stage, the individual qualifies himself to embark upon a new direction. There is significant psychological change. For those who are on the spiritual path, this asterism opens the flood-gate of Divine benediction, but for opens the flood-gate of Divine benediction, but for individuals who are still attracted to worldly values the power and status bestowed upon them makes them arrogant, conceited, and dangerously proud. With artha the motivational impulse, any action undertaken is purposeful.