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00° 00’ Simha - 13° 20’ Simha In the Sky
Magha, brightest and largest amongst Nakshatras, is represented in night sky by a sickle-shaped group of stars in front of royal constellation of Simha. Brightest among these is Regulus or Alpha Leonis. With a visual magnitude of 1.41, it is one of brightest stars in night sky and is also known as ”Little king” or ”Little Sun”. Its companions, which comprise rest of constellation, lie above it and are known in modern astronomy as Eta Leonis (Al Jabhah), Zeta Leonis (Adhafera), Mu Leonis (Rasalas), Epsilon Leonis, Lambda Leonis (Alterf) & Kappa Leonis. Ancient Vedic Seers saw this constellation as a throne, while other cultures saw it as a lion.
Name
Magha translates into ”mighty”, ”beneficent”, ”great”, ”magnificent”, ”most important” or ”bountiful”. This translation immediately evokes a variety of meanings and feelings and as we shall see, this Nakshatra is true to its name.
Symbol
Magha’s main symbol is a ”throne”. As a matter of detail, one can say it is a ”royal chamber with a throne” (please refer to image). This symbolism immediately conjures up a picture of royalty, power, status, honor and like. We can see that all these interpretations live up to meanings evoked by name of this Nakshatra. However, bottom line of this symbolism lies in one word - ”achievement”. After struggles and tribulations of Ashlesha (previous Nakshatra), it is now time for reaping rewards. In material realm, Magha bestows this reward on natives under its influence through power, position, authority, and in higher aspect, through self-knowledge.
In a way, body is nothing but throne of soul. Most of us identify or attach our sense of self to our minds and bodies. Magha is first Nakshatra which relates to individualization process. It represents all that we mean when we say ”I”. Soul uses body and mind as its identity. Mind and intellect, however, are given task to understand our true identities as eternal, everlasting souls. There’s no greater accomplishment with discovery of ”self”. In its material aspect, Magha can bestow all kinds of worldly honors and prestige, usually through our ability to accomplish on material plane.
In many cases, Magha can bestow all of this as a result purely through hereditary means or some sort of succession. In ancient times it was implicit that son of king will be king and son of a barber will be a barber. Even though things appear different today, they are still pretty much same if one looks at full picture.
Magha’s throne denotes all that we have inherited, whether it be genes, roots, property, wealth, knowledge or status, through our parents and ancestors. Magha is therefore Nakshatra which is most closely related to our sense of identity. It relates to who we are and where we are coming from.
Deity
Pitris, or ”ancestors”, are main ruling deity of this asterism. It comes as no surprise that world of ancestors controls Magha. As we discussed earlier, we owe alot to our ancestors in terms of our actual self identity and station in life, even without ever knowing or acknowledging it, as is case in modern times. Ancestor worship was another one of common strands which connected all ancient civilizations.
Our ancient ancestors obviously were not ungrateful fools like us and saw it as their duty and privilege to keep alive knowledge of their roots, by honoring and in some cases bonding with their ancestors in other realms. In rural areas of countries like India, ancestor worship still remains a serious matter. In fact, death rites usually involve rituals directly related to one’s ancestry. Many families in India, especially Brahmin families, often trace their ancestries back to original seven Sages, who were created by Brahma, at very beginning of creation.
Modern science of genetics has made it clear that most of our abilities and capabilities are dependent upon our genetic code and that this genetic code is basically a sort of free gift from our ancestors. In same way, Magha is known for bestowing liberal favors without any expectation of return. It is basically a Nakshatra which deals with past. We should, however, keep in mind that our ancestors are not frozen remains of past, but are actually alive in one of universal realms.
Puranic texts tell us that there is a a heavenly realm called Pitra Loka or ”world of ancestors”. This is world where alot among us go to after our physical deaths. It is sort of an intermediary station where souls meet their ancestors and rest for awhile, before returning to earth for another life or moving on to other Lokas. This world of ancestors finds vivid descriptions in all ancient cultures, especially among present day native American Indian and aboriginal tribes. This world of dead is supposed to overlook our affairs on physical earthly realm and in some cases, some direct intervention and communication is experienced. Magha is a Nakshatra relating both to our identity in present life and our after-death journey.
Nature & Functioning
Common English words like ”magnificent”, ”manor”, ”major”, ”master”, ”magic”, ”magnanimous” and ”mayor”, seem to have their root in first two syllables of word ”Magha”. Meanings of these words relate to Magha’s functioning at some level or other.
It is Magha’s job to shape present using past. Wherever this Nakshatra is placed in a chart, one will experience positive effects of one’s past Karmas. This may manifest as opportunities or favor from those in high positions. These favors are very sudden and based on impulse from those who bestow them.
Its fierceness corresponds to fierce aspect of Ketu, which is akin to fierce aspect of Surya. Ketu is most fierce among Grahas. It can be as fierce as mid-summer, mid-afternoon desert Surya. Fierceness, as we know, is also associated with authority at some level. Authority can either foster magnanimity or produce merciless tyrants who are blinded by power and authority.
It is a human asterism which brings out more worldly human side of esoterically oriented Ketu. This is very much a worldly Nakshatra which is interested in human affairs. Ketu is known to us as a separative Graha which disassociates one from worldly ties, but through this asterism it promotes involvement in mundane affairs for discharging one’s worldly duties. It brings out materially active side of Ketu, which is very concerned about social status, prominence and discharging of one’s worldly duties. This is why its pitfall lies in making one overambitious in one’s material pursuits. However, when working through its higher principal, this asterism has a high degree of idealism, even when surrounded by worldly attainments. Ketu is an idealistic Graha when functioning in its solar aspect. Ketu is also a naturally rebellious Graha and consequently this Nakshatra is directly related to all types of revolts against authority.
This is an asterism connected to sustenance and maintenance aspect of nature. Its primary impulse is to maintain established traditions, organizations and civilizations. This is usually function of those in positions of authority, whom this asterism represents.
Natives with Magha rising or strong Magha influence are easy to spot because of their big noses and regal demeanor. Magha people have middle stature and lion-like top heavy bodies. They have arrogant mannerisms which make them misunderstood in general. Their power lies in covering up weaknesses through reservedness. They usually align themselves with their ancestral lineage and derive pride through a sense of belonging. They are usually magnanimous to those below their station in life. Following a moral and ethical code is important for their inner peace of mind. Magha natives usually have a strong concern for continuation of their family lineage through progeny. They have great expectations of their progeny and want them to bring pride and renown to family.
In universal scheme of things, Magha relates to ”Tyaga Shepani Shakti” - power of astral body to cut its ties with physical body. Its symbolism has mourning above and death process below. This relates Magha to all endings like physical death and new beginnings, which arise as a result. Magha guides souls to Pitra Loka (realm of ancestors) after one’s death. Thus Magha is basically a facilitator in change of state.
Mode of Functioning
Magha is considered to be an active Nakshatra. Magha’s naturally fiery nature promotes activity and dynamism. It is Magha’s striving for a sense of achievement and glory which makes it pursue an active way of life.
Caste
Strangely enough, ancient Vedic Seers assigned royal Nakshatra of Magha to Shudra (servant) caste. Their line of thinking may be partially understood, when one comes to understanding that finally a king is nothing but a servant of his people. It is Magha’s duty to be of service, no matter what high throne it sits upon. This is best conveyed in words of contemporary poet Bob Dylan, ”You might be devil or you might be Lord, but you gotta serve somebody!”
Gender
It is a female Nakshatra. It has been a tradition in Vedic literature to view things like prosperity, fame and fortune as feminine. All these desired attainments in material world are often depicted in form of goddesses. It is interesting to note that even word ”vanity” is seen as a predominantly feminine vice.
Body Parts & Humor
Nose, lips and chin are body parts related to this Nakshatra. Readers thus can notice that people with prominent Magha influence in their charts usually have a big nose. It is not very difficult to see where term ”high nosed” came from!
It is a primarily ”Kapha”(watery) Nakshatra. It can be noticed that Magha has ability to hide its ambitions, motives and fieriness under a calm exterior. A calm exterior, as we know, is often associated with water signs or Kapha element.
Direction
It is related primarily to East, South, North-West and South-West.
Padas
First Pada of this asterism (00° 00’ - 3° 20’ Simha) falls in Mesha Navamsa and is ruled by Mangal. This is Pada relating to willpower aspect of Magha. This is Pada where throne is won after killing of many headed serpent of Ashlesha. Magha qualities, like self assertion, leadership, courage and idealism, are displayed here to their fullest.
Second Pada of this asterism (3° 20’ - 6° 40’ Simha) falls in Vrisabha Navamsa ruled by Sukr. After throning, king has to consolidate his position. This is a very ambitious Pada, where emphasis is on image, duty and materialistic organization. Grahas placed here bring about favors from superiors.
Third Pada of this asterism (6° 40’ - 10° 00’ Simha) falls in Mithuna Navamsa ruled by Budh. This Pada relates to often ignored intellectual side of Magha. After throne is safe, king indulges in more literary artistic pursuits and listens to discourses from learned men. Emphasis here is on mental activity and a quest for knowledge (knowledge of ancients in present times!). Grahas placed here make one succeed through group activity, even though it is Magha’s essential nature to go it alone.
Fourth Pada of this asterism (10° 00’ - 13° 20’ Simha) falls in Karkataka Navamsa ruled by Chandr. This is Pada which brings out Magha’s love of ritual, ceremonies, ancestor worship and family pride. King here concentrates on wellbeing of his subjects, his family life and looks for progeny to keep his lineage going. Grahas placed in this Pada make one derive pride from one’s family, ancestors and one’s charitability. Grahas here are not very conducive to material prosperity and create upheavals through some form of self-undoing.
Professions
Administrators; managers; royalty and those in direct touch with royalty; those who bestow (or receive) honors like ”knighthood” etc.; those in high places in government; people at top of their chosen professions; legends; bureaucrats; aristocrats; officials; chairmen (those in a position of authority); lawyers; advocates; judges, referees, magistrates and like; politicians; historians; librarians; orators; dramatists & performers; upholders of traditions; professions relating to museums of all types; occultists; black magicians; exorcists; astrologers; dealers in antiques of all types; archaeologists; genetic engineering experts; professions related to using and researching ancient knowledge, monuments etc.; those researching & documenting lineages.
Places
Deserts; forests; capital cities; libraries; museums; palaces; ancient monuments & sites; Gov. offices; residences of top politicians; national monuments; stages & performance halls; ceremonial grounds & buildings; crematories; places of religious, spiritual significance.
Guna & Tatva
It is supposed to be a Tamasic Nakshatra. Primary reason why ancient Seers saw active Magha as being predominated by Tamasic energy is because of fact that it relates more to past. Many a times Magha can retard new growth as a result of being stuck in past. Magha carries within itself all inertia, temptations and trappings that past more often than not manages to conjure.
It belongs to water element. It is a watery Nakshatra, in sense that it is like an ocean and represents expansive watery side of Ketu. Ocean is again symbolic of vastness and prominence inherent in this Nakshatra. Water, as we know, is secondary element of Ketu. It brings out emotional side of Ketu, which manifests in qualities like compassion and benevolence. These are important qualities for those in positions of authority.
Gana
It is considered a Rakshasa (demonic) Nakshatra. Through this classification ancient Seers are giving us a signal that world of ancestors is not all benign and godly. There are many Bhootas, Pretas, Pishachas and other types of negative astral entities associated with this Nakshatra. Most of black magic practices involve summoning and use of these negative entities. Most of these dark occult practices are often done in order to gain typical Magha goals - power, status, fame, fortune, prosperity etc. A statement of caution for black magic practitioners - ”every action has a reaction and everything has its price”.
Orientation & Disposition
It is a downward Looking Nakshatra. This basically relates to Magha’s association with past and in same sense, all things down and under. As mentioned earlier, Magha can be quite a constrictive influence, a role which bureaucracy and authority plays to ”T” in present times. It is interesting to note that alot of research relating to past involves digging underground, an activity normally associated with downward Nakshatras.
It is an Ugra (fierce or aggressive) Nakshatra. It is very clear that no throne is attained without overcoming numerous obstacles, enemies and like. It is Magha’s burning pride and ambition that makes it fierce and cruel. Magha sets itself no limits or boundaries when it comes to achieving its goals.
Lunar Month & Tithi
It is related to second half of lunar month of Magha. This period usually falls in February in solar calendar. In India this part of month of Magha is still used for ancestor worship.
Magha is also related to Amavasya (15th Tithi or New Chandr day) of waning phase of Chandr’s monthly cycle.
Auspicious Activities
Ceremonies of all kinds, especially those requiring pomp and grandeur; marriage ceremonies; stage & public performances whether it involves music, oratory or drama; public displays; coronations and other royal events; parades; award ceremonies; researching one’s lineage; anything involving past; historical / classical studies & research; taking on a new name; upgrading to higher and better quality in possessions, jobs, etc.; undertaking career strategies; job promotions; donating elaborate gifts; studying ancient knowledge; religious activities of all types, especially those involving ancestor worship; good for settling disputes or other warlike activities; a good time to seek favors from powerful persons, government and other authority figures.
Inauspicious Activities
Not favorable for lending money; not good for servile, mundane or common activities; not good for futuristic planning and exploration; not very conducive for dealing with new technologies.
Lords
Ketu is main planetary Lord of Magha. One of Ketu’s main symbols is a flag, which directly relates to authority, eminence, fame etc. This favored position in present life is earnt due to meritorious past life deeds. Ketu, as we know, is guardian of our past Karmas and it releases ones that are ripe enough to be experienced in present life through this Nakshatra.
Qualities and attributes of Ketu, like deep perception, penetrating insight and independent spirit, which are similar to that of Surya, are exhibited by Magha. Surya, as we know, is royal Graha, but mostly we don’t see Ketu in that light. This asterism brings out regal side of Ketu. This asterism can be seen as a combination of Surya’s and Ketu’s energies. Surya is related to Magha as a result of being Lord of Simha, Rasi Magha falls in.
Ketu, as we have discussed earlier, is a genetic Graha and represents paternal grandfather and maternal grandmother in a chart. Our connection with our ancestors has a lot to do with our past lives, which is again a Ketu domain. To sum it up, Magha has a lot to do with genetic and past heritage aspect of Ketu. It also relates to fact that Ketu is responsible for bringing wisdom of ancient ages and civilizations to present.
Surya / Ketu conjunction in a nativity carries an energy similar to that of Magha. Fiery royal Grahas like Surya & Mangal usually do well in Magha. Servant Grahas like Sani however feel at sea in this Nakshatra.
Vowels & Alphabets
First Pada of this asterism (00° 00’ - 3° 20’ Simha) corresponds to ”Ma” as in Magic or Marilyn.
Second Pada of this asterism (3° 20’ - 6° 40’ Simha) corresponds to ”Mi” as in Mia.
Third Pada of this asterism (6° 40’ - 10° 00’ Simha) corresponds to ”Mu” as in Mukti.
Fourth Pada of this asterism (10° 00’ - 13° 20’ Simha) corresponds to ”Me” as in Meryl.
In Sanskrit alphabet, Magha corresponds to ”Gha” and ”Nga”, consequently its Mantras are ”Om Gham” and ”Om Ngam”.
Sexual Type & Compatibility
Its sexual animal is a rat. It is interesting to note that regal and pompous Magha becomes a rat in bed. Magha is always said to have a weakness for opposite sex. Rats are highly sexually active animals, known to produce scores of progeny. As we have discussed, Magha is very fixed on propagating its lineage and its rampant sexuality is both for procreation and recreation. It could be said that sexuality is just another show-off medium for Magha, who in reality often doesn’t match up to its partner’s expectations in bed. It is mostly compatible with its fellow rat, Purva Phalguni.
For sexual and marital compatibility with other Nakshatras please refer to tables at end of this document.
Esoteric
Magha is 10th Nakshatra and thus like 10th Bhava, its spirituality lies in Karma Yoga, which entails fulfilling one’s duty in life. Star Regulus, principle star of Magha, was revered in all ancient cultures as celestial seat of power. Constellation of Magha lies beside Hydra, constellation relating to demonic serpent forces and previous Nakshatra Ashlesha. This relates to fact that crown or throne of Magha is only achieved after overcoming primordial negative part of our nature, exemplified by Ashlesha.
In Greek culture (an offshoot of ancient Vedic culture), there are references to many celestial battles between serpents and Gods. Most famous of these battles relates to killing of Hydra, sea serpent with nine heads, by Hercules, son of Guru. Hydra is longest constellation in sky and also covers largest area. Astrological signs of Karkataka, Simha, Kanya and Tula can be seen placed along its northern side. Hercules, great warrior, is also a constellation in sky, placed close to star Vega.
Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu, kills a several-headed serpent called ”Kaliya” in a story very reminiscent of above-mentioned Greek legend. It was understood that subduing or winning over these forces was an important part of establishing oneself as being worthy of throne, which allowed one to have influence over masses. Whole point of Magha is to rise above cancerian pool of mass-mentality and discover one’s own unique individuality.
Fact that our ancient ancestors, who lived in Golden, Silver & Bronze ages, were supposed to be more highly evolved than us, makes world of ancestors a place where we could draw wisdom and knowledge from. Ancient native cultures, like Native American Indians and Nordics, have always known this fact. Any real change in present day situation of hopelessness, confusion and misery, will only come about after knowledge of ancients is properly understood.
Gotra
This Nakshatra is related to Sage ”Angiras”, one of seven celestial Sages looking after affairs of our galaxy. Name of this Sage translates into ”fiery one”. Considering Magha’s essential fiery nature, it is no wonder that it connects to this particular Sage, who, as we recall, also presides over fiery Nakshatra of Krittika.
Remedial
One straightforward way of getting Magha on your side is to be respectful and reverential towards elders and ancestors. Performance of a ”Shradha” ceremony for one’s ancestors in prescribed Tithi of lunar month of Magha, is auspicious in sense that one receives blessings from world of ancestors. Worship of Kali or Shiva is best way of mastering energy of this Nakshatra.
Repetition of root Mantra of this Nakshatra - ”Om Gham” and ”Om Ngam” 108 times when Chandr transits this Nakshatra and in lunar month of Magha, is sure to reduce suffering and bring enlightenment into a person’s life.
Persons who are benefiting from positive energy of this Nakshatra can also increase good effects through above mentioned ways. It is helpful for them to wear royal colors, which includes dark and bright shades of gold, reds and yellows. They should use its directions, lunar month and days when Chandr transits Magha, to undertake all important actions.
Example
Paramahamsa Yogananda, one of famous spiritual teachers who popularized Kundalini Yoga in West, has his Chandr and Lagna placed in Magha. His life and works as recollected in his book, ”Autobiography of a Yogi”, reveal alot relating to lineage oriented functioning of Magha. Both his spiritual authority and his spiritual teaching were a legacy from a line of Ascended Masters like Yukteshwara, Lahira Mahashaya and mysterious figure of Babaji.
Miscellaneous
According to Varahamihira, those born with Chandr in Magha have ”lots of wealth, many servants, live a life of luxury and enjoyment, are persevering and devoted to gods and ancestors”. All of these indications apply to our example.
Magha Nakshatra Female
Magha Nakshatra is one of the most significant and powerful Nakshatras in Vedic astrology. Women born under Magha Nakshatra are often characterized by their regal demeanor, strong sense of pride, and deep connection to their ancestral lineage. They exhibit leadership qualities and are usually involved in activities that grant them a position of authority or respect. These women tend to be ambitious, with a clear sense of purpose and determination to achieve their goals. Their strong ethical and moral values guide their actions, making them respected figures in their communities.
Makam Nakshatra
In some regions, Magha Nakshatra is also referred to as Makam Nakshatra. This Nakshatra, located from 00° 00’ to 13° 20’ in the sign of Leo (Simha), is symbolized by a throne, indicating power, authority, and respect. The main deity of Magha Nakshatra is the Pitris or ancestors, emphasizing the importance of heritage and lineage.
Magha Nakshatra Male
Men born under Magha Nakshatra are often distinguished by their authoritative presence and leadership qualities. They tend to have a prominent nose and a regal bearing, reflective of their royal lineage. These individuals are ambitious, aiming to achieve high status and recognition in their chosen fields. They are known for their strong willpower, courage, and idealism, often taking on significant roles in their communities or professions.
Magha Nakshatra Marriage Age
The marriage age for those born under Magha Nakshatra can vary, but it is often influenced by their strong desire to establish a secure and stable family life. They tend to marry after they have achieved a certain level of success and stability in their careers. This can sometimes lead to a later-than-average marriage age compared to other Nakshatras.
Magha Nakshatra Characteristics
The characteristics of Magha Nakshatra natives include a strong sense of self-identity, pride in their heritage, and a drive for recognition and authority. They are often seen as magnanimous, beneficent, and great achievers. Their connection to their ancestors is a significant aspect of their personality, influencing their actions and decisions.
Is Magha Nakshatra Good or Bad
Is Magha Nakshatra good or bad? This is a common question among astrology enthusiasts. Magha Nakshatra is generally considered auspicious due to its association with power, authority, and ancestral blessings. However, like all Nakshatras, it has its challenges, particularly related to over-ambition and potential arrogance. Understanding and balancing these traits can lead to a positive and fulfilling life for those born under this Nakshatra.
What is Magha Nakshatra
What is Magha Nakshatra? It is the 10th Nakshatra in Vedic astrology, located entirely within the sign of Leo. It represents the essence of royalty, authority, and ancestral legacy. It is ruled by Ketu and its symbol is a throne, reflecting its connection to leadership and power.
Which God Born in Magha Nakshatra
Which god born in Magha Nakshatra? Lord Vishnu is believed to be associated with Magha Nakshatra. This connection further emphasizes the Nakshatra's themes of protection, leadership, and sustaining life.
How is Magha Nakshatra
How is Magha Nakshatra? It is characterized by a strong connection to ancestral heritage, a desire for authority, and a regal demeanor. Natives are often ambitious, ethical, and respected in their communities. They have a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards their family and society.
Magha Nakshatra
Magha Nakshatra natives are known for their regal and authoritative nature. They are often involved in leadership roles and have a deep respect for their ancestors. Their ambition and drive make them successful in various fields, especially those that grant them power and recognition.
Magha Nakshatra in Hindi
Magha Nakshatra in Hindi: मघा नक्षत्र सिंह राशि में स्थित होता है और इसे शाही नक्षत्र माना जाता है। इस नक्षत्र के जातक अपने पूर्वजों से गहरा संबंध रखते हैं और उनके लिए आदर और सम्मान का भाव रखते हैं।
Magha Nakshatra Lord
The lord of Magha Nakshatra is Ketu. Ketu represents past karma, spiritual insights, and detachment, which align with the Nakshatra's emphasis on ancestral heritage and self-identity.
Magha Nakshatra Marriage Age
Magha Nakshatra marriage age can vary, but many natives prefer to marry when they have established their careers and achieved a certain level of stability. This ensures a secure and prosperous family life.
Magha Nakshatra in Telugu
Magha Nakshatra in Telugu: మాఘ నక్షత్రం సింహ రాశిలో ఉన్నది మరియు ఇది రాయల్ నక్షత్రంగా పరిగణించబడుతుంది. ఈ నక్షత్రం వారు తమ పూర్వీకులతో బలమైన సంబంధాన్ని కలిగి ఉంటారు మరియు వారిని గౌరవిస్తారు.
In conclusion, Magha Nakshatra is a powerful and influential Nakshatra that bestows its natives with leadership qualities, a deep connection to their heritage, and the drive to achieve greatness. Whether male or female, those born under this Nakshatra are often seen as regal, authoritative, and ambitious, with a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards their family and society.
