some further comments on astrology

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Comments on astrology.

 

Astrological science is fine if used for reflective purposes -- we are not

contesting whether it works or does not work. What we are contesting is our use

of astrology. If we can agree that astrology implies pre-determination, then we

must also agree, that there is no way to control our future experiences. All

that we can do is to prepare ourselves mentally (although, technically there is

no difference between physical and mental, but ignoring that for now) for future

experiences. This state of equanimity in the face of our experiences prevents us

from performing additional karmas (mental reactions to experiences) that will

lead to more future experiences. We have control over our

emotions/thoughts/expectations, but pre-determination implies that our actions

and experiences are entirely pre-ordained. Afterall the very word 'karma' means

'action'. Yoga I assume implies that we are able to yoke our mental faculties to

the knowledge of the Self in such a way that our actions do not bind

us. So our individualized ego has control only over our reactions to our

experiences, but not the experiences themselves. Although, if we react

negatively to an experience, then the karma's accumulate from our bondage to

that experience; whereas, if we do not react to the experience, or rather are

not affected by an experience, then we remain calm and undisturbed like deep

waters. So true yoga is akin to sacrificing our emotions/thoughts/expectations

to the supreme consciousness by non-identification with them. This is the

essence of method of negation -- 'neti neti'. It is not a verbal process but a

mental renunciation of our identification with the ego structure -- we throw our

ego into the fire of renunciation.

 

I have often heard Swamiji remark that one's destiny is entirely pre-ordained,

therefore, what use is there in trying to manipulate the future by using

astrology? Instead, it seems more appropriate that knowing the future a priori,

we should prepare for it mentally, rather than trying to change it. Through

proper mental preparation, we remain calm and unruffled, which in the latest

Bhagavad Gita CD, narrated by Sri Swamiji, is the definition of Yoga -- to

maintain a balanced state of mind in victory and loss. Of course, perhaps it is

better still to attain the yoga of equanimity than to keep trying to predict the

future and preparing for specific circumstances.

 

 

 

Jaya Guru Datta.