Vedic Astrology Xxviii
Vedic Astrology Lesson 28
The Ascendant is defined as the intersecting point between the Ecliptic ( Kranti Vritta ) & the Celestial Horizon ( Kshitija ). In Sanskrit it is known as Udaya Lagna. The Ecliptic is the path of the earth round the Sun. The origin of the Celestial Horizon is the Northern Horizon. The Original Point of the Ecliptic is 0 degrees Aries according to Western Astrology and is 0 degrees Beta Arietis ( Ashwini ) according to Vedic Astrology.
The Ascendant is the most important point in one’s horoscope. It represents the Wheel of Destiny. The Ascending Degree is known as the Lagna Bindu and all calculations are based on it. 180 degrees from it is known as the Descendant ( Astha Lagna ).
By Ascendant is meant the Eastern Celestial Horizon. The Descendant is the Western Celestial Horizon.
In Natal Astrology, only the Ascendant and the Lunar Ascendant figure largely. In Horary Astrology, along with the Ascendant and the Lunar Ascendant, three more Ascendants come into the picture. They are Base Ascendant ( Aroodha ), Veedhi and Chatra.
In Horary Astrology, all computations are based on the Base Ascendant ( Aroodha ), similar to the calculations based on the Ascendant in Natal. The curse of reverential, learned people is denoted by Aroodha, the anger of the populace is represented by the Ascendant, trouble from enemies is indicated by the Lunar Ascendant & the anger of deities is indicated by Chatra. These four Ascendants form the pillar of Horary Astrology.
The Ascendant is computed using the formula
Tan Q = ( cos w Sin R + Sin w Tan A ) / Cos R