Glossary of Jyotish Terms

Jyotish is a system with a specific vocabulary.

Many of its concepts originate in Sanskrit and carry meanings that do not always translate directly into English. For this reason, certain terms may appear unfamiliar at first, yet they often point to ideas that are both precise and deeply interconnected.

This glossary is intended as a reference—a way to approach the terminology of Jyotish with more clarity and ease. Rather than offering rigid definitions, it provides context and orientation, allowing each term to be understood within the broader framework of the system.

Over time, these concepts tend to become less abstract and more experiential, forming part of a way of understanding and interpreting life.

Ascendant (First House)

Combustion

Constellation (Rashi)

Eclipse

Exalted and debilitated planet

Gochara (Transit)

Graha

Graha Yuddha (Planetary War)

Own Sign (Swa)

Planet (Graha)

Planetary Strength and Weakness

Rashi

Retrograde Planet

Transit (Gochara)

Ascendant (First House)

The Ascendant, or First House, represents the moment of birth and everything associated with it. It is the sign rising on the horizon at the exact time of birth, and it establishes the structure of the entire chart. It reflects both the physical and psychological constitution of a person, as well as their general orientation toward life. It is often associated with how a person presents themselves to the world and the first impression they tend to give.

Combustion

A planet is considered combust when it is very close to the Sun, typically within a few degrees. In this condition, the planet’s ability to express its qualities may be weakened or overshadowed by the Sun’s influence. At the same time, this proximity can also intensify certain internal aspects of the planet. The overall effect depends on the context of the chart.

Constellation (Rashi)

The term constellation is often used as a translation of the Sanskrit word Rashi, which refers to the twelve divisions of the zodiac. Each Rashi represents a specific field of experience and forms part of the structure through which planetary influences are interpreted.

Eclipse

Eclipses are traditionally associated with moments of withdrawal from outward activity and a shift toward inner reflection. Rather than being considered favorable for initiating material actions, they are often understood as periods that support introspection, letting go, and spiritual focus.

Exalted and debilitated planet

Each planet has a sign in which it is considered exalted and another in which it is debilitated. Exaltation indicates strength and an enhanced ability for the planet to express its qualities. Debilitation, on the other hand, suggests a weakened or less stable expression of those qualities. These conditions do not determine outcomes on their own, but describe how comfortably or effectively a planet can operate within a given context.

Gochara (Transit)

Planets are constantly moving through the sky, and their current positions in relation to the natal chart are referred to as transits. These movements can highlight particular areas of life over certain periods of time, bringing focus, activity, or challenge depending on the planets involved.

Graha

The term graha is commonly translated as “planet,” although its meaning is broader. It refers to a “seizer” or “that which grasps,” indicating forces that influence perception, behavior, and experience. In Jyotish, nine grahas are considered, each representing a different type of influence within the system.

Graha Yuddha (Planetary War)

A planetary war occurs when two planets are very close to each other in the same sign, competing for influence. In such cases, one planet is considered dominant, while the other may have a reduced capacity to express its qualities. This interaction can affect the areas of life associated with those planets.

Own Sign (Swa)

Each planet rules one or two signs. When a planet is placed in its own sign, it is considered strong and able to express its nature more freely. This condition is often compared to a person being in a familiar environment, where they can act with greater ease and authenticity.

Planet (Graha)

The term “planet” is used as a translation of graha, although it does not correspond exactly to the modern astronomical definition. Grahas represent forces or influences that shape experience and guide action, rather than purely physical objects.

Planetary Strength and WeaknessThe position of a graha within a sign can affect its strength. A strong planet is more capable of expressing its qualities clearly, while a weaker one may struggle to do so. These conditions influence how planetary energies are experienced, but do not determine outcomes on their own.

Rashi

A Sanskrit term often translated as “sign” or “constellation,” referring to the twelve divisions of the zodiac. Each Rashi represents a particular field of experience and provides the context in which planetary influences are interpreted.

Retrograde PlanetA planet is considered retrograde when it appears to move backward in the sky from the perspective of Earth. This apparent motion is associated with a more internalized or intensified expression of the planet’s energy, although its effects depend on the overall context of the chart.

Transit (Gochara)

Transits refer to the ongoing movement of planets in relation to the natal chart. They can indicate shifts in focus, periods of activity, or times of challenge, helping to understand what is being emphasized in the present moment.

Glossary of Jyotish Terms