UTTARA BHADRA

The nature of the forces flowing through Uttara Bhadra is difficult to describe. It lies completely within the Jovian sign of Pisces; it extends from 333° 20' to 346° 40' (3° 20' to 16° 40' Pisces). The deeply esoteric nature of the asterism is, however, expressed by assigning its rulership to Saturn and naming AhirBudhnya, the Serpent of the Deep, as its presiding deity. It is assigned a symbol suggesting the four stars which constitute the asterism and form a square with two stars in the east; the same set of stars divided between the two Bhadras are said to represent twins. Sattwa (harmony) operating at the primary and secondary levels with tamas (inertia) operating at the tertiary level suggest that though the asterism may be linked with materiality, resistance, difficulties and opposition at the beginning, it will create a harmonious impact in the long run. Not the detachment of an enlightened mind, but passionate involvement of an emotional nature characterizes this asterism.

AhirBudhnya, the presiding deity, is also Ahi-Vritra, the dragon of the deep sea which lies concealed in primeval darkness. The dual principles of light and darkness, heat and cold, are emphasized by Aja Ekapada and AhirBudhnya. They are in eternal conflict and represent the two fundamental principles of creation. These principles govern fire and water, heat and cold, and are personified by Agni, representing fire, and Soma or the Moon, representing water. They are the two primary elements, and with reference to Uttara and Purva Bhadra, they represent a unity symbolized by the four legs of a cot: the four legs represent two sets of twins, each within itself containing the dual or opposing qualities. Purva Bhadra, ruled by Aja Ekapada and governed by Jupiter, lies three-quarters within a sign of Saturn. Uttara Bhadra, ruled by Saturn and presided over by AhirBudhnya, lies completely under Jupiter. The opposing qualities contained in the totality of Bhadrapada are differentiated between Purva and Uttara Bhadra.

These two well-polarized forces which constitute the manifested universe are again moving toward unity. Uttara Bhadra, is of the nature of Soma, the Moon, which is associated with water and has the quality of passivity. The passivity of darkness is the mysterious source from which all other forms of creation have arisen. It is the outstanding characteristic of Uttara Bhadra.

Uttara Bhadra becomes very powerful whenever it is associated with any planet. Though it has complete passivity and non-action, it is also highly dynamic whenever an active force impinges upon it and the latent energy within it is vigorously activated.

Uttara Bhadra enables an individual to comprehend the wisdom concealed in different forms of manifestation. The wisdom of the serpent must manifest here. Whatever happens to the individual, there is growth and expansion of consciousness. Under the impact of this asterism, there is an opportunity to preserve, protect and cooperate with the Divine plan despite any hardships that may arise in the discharge of that responsibility. The urge toward transformation often makes the individual thirst for something better and thus produces considerable dissatisfaction. But ultimately there arises complete indifference to every worldly relationship.