Shravana – The Arrow

Shravana (10.00-23.20 Capricorn) is governed by the all-pervading energy of Lord Vishnu, the Creator. It represents the climax of the lunar energy and is shown in the celestial horizon as the eagle. Shravana is ruled by the Moon, and is symbolized by triple footprints.

In fact, the very term ‘Shravana’ can be translated into several meanings like ‘hearing’ and ‘someone who walks by limping’. The latter meaning refers to the three footprints of Vishnu. Shravana is also translates into ‘Asvattha’ or the sacred pipal tree which has extraordinary Vedic significance.

Behavioral Characteristics

Amicability: this is the word that defines Shravana that believes in maintaining peace with the surroundings and be just in its approach. Calculation, although when developed in higher motivations, is totally unselfish. Despite being unyielding and obstinate, Shravana indicates a positive nature as well. In all its perseverance, Shravana seldom prefers leaving things midway. Thus, when any kind of activity is initiated in Shravana, it is certain that it will be completed.

On the flip side, Shravana is characterized with shrewdness and this along with hard work and knowledge, is used for attaining selfish ends. The ability to listen, acquire and impart meaning is usually lost in manipulation, gossip and bad-mouthing. As a nakshatra that is oriented towards achieving what it aims at, Shravana tends to become harmful when the goals are unprincipled and not fully recognized. One commonly found disadvantage is narrow-mindedness. Here, the ego needs to be toned to a certain extent and hence there is the risk that they may not always follow the right path.

Oration, organizational abilities and material pursuits are a few of the aspects that characterize this asterism. In fact, the ability to organize things has incorporated a negative connotation in recent times. The social involvement of Shravana makes it favorable for public dealings. The business-like approach to things is however very cordial. Shravana ascending can make the person crafty, alert and receptive. However, too much of generosity and modesty can often lead to their doom.

The Shravana constellation is not favorable for rearing children, from whom they derive little happiness. The power of the asterism relates to ‘apradhrishya shakti’ or the power to attribute final victory.

Quarters or Padas

Aries Navamsa (10.00–13.20 Capricorn): This quarter is ruled by Mars. It is characterized by ambition, career, logic, initiative

Taurus Navamsa (13.20-16.40 Capricorn): This quarter is ruled by Venus. It is characterized by diplomacy, courtesy, tact, perseverance

Gemini Navamsa (16.40–20.00 Capricorn): This quarter is ruled by Mercury. It is characterized by flexibility, cunning, learning, communication

Cancer Navamsa (20.00–23.20 Capricorn): This quarter is ruled by the Moon. It is characterized by receptivity, mass-oriented approach, and sympathy

Gana: Shravana is a ‘deva’/godly nakshatra, since the presiding deity, Lord Vishnu, is a god with all the gentle qualities without being cruel.

Favorable Activities

Rituals, performances, beginnings, medical, prevention, social interaction, reading, writing, music, meditation, philosophy, sexuality, peacefulness, organization, herbs, medicines, politics, clothes, items for home business, travel, charity

Unfavorable Activities

Aggression, risks, lawsuits, lending, war, manual labor, promises, oaths, demolishing, ending old things, marriage ceremony, adopting children

Measures for Remedy

Shravana natives should worship Lord Vishnu in all his incarnations and chant the root mantra “Om Mam” 108 times during the lunar transition of this nakshatra to alleviate afflictions. Wearing white and light blue is also recommended. All important actions should correspond to the course of this constellation for best results.

Miscellaneous

In the words of Varahamihira, the lunar influence gives Shravana a scholarly appearance and a broadminded spouse. The famous boxer Mohammed Ali is a typical Shravana native.