Question

Which of the following divisional charts are included in the 'Ṣaḍvarga' (Six-fold) classification of planetary strength?
A. Gr̥ha (Rāśi)
B. Saptamāṃśa
C. Hōrā
D. Ṣaṣṭiāṃśa
E. Drēkkāṇa

• A. Only A, C, E
• B. Only A, C, D
• C. Only D, B, C
• D. Only C, B, A

Hint:

Remember the numbers: 1, 2, 3, 9, 12, 30. These are the divisions that make up the "Shadvarga". Anything else (like 7 or 60) belongs to the more advanced Varga groups.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Vedic Astrology, the strength of a planet is assessed not just in the main birth chart (Rāśi) but through several divisional charts (Vargas). These are grouped into sets like Ṣaḍvarga (6), Saptavarga (7), Daśavarga (10), and Ṣōḍaśavarga (16). The 'Ṣaḍvarga' is the most basic set used to determine if a planet is auspicious or inauspicious.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to Maharṣi Parāśara, the 'Ṣaḍvarga' consists of:

1. Gr̥ha/Rāśi (A): The basic chart ($30^{\circ}$ division).
2. Hōrā (C): The 2nd division ($15^{\circ}$ each). Used for wealth.
3. Drēkkāṇa (E): The 3rd division ($10^{\circ}$ each). Used for siblings and courage.
4. Navāṃśa (Not in list): The 9th division ($3^{\circ}20'$ each). Used for spouse/strength.
5. Dvādaśāṃśa (Not in list): The 12th division ($2^{\circ}30'$ each). Used for parents.
6. Triṃśāṃśa (Not in list): The 30th division ($1^{\circ}$ each). Used for character/accidents.

Evaluating the other options:
- Saptamāṃśa (B): This belongs to 'Saptavarga' and higher sets. It is the 7th division used for progeny.
- Ṣaṣṭiāṃśa (D): This belongs to 'Ṣōḍaśavarga'. It is the 60th division and is considered extremely important for minute details.

Thus, only A, C, and E are part of the specific 'Ṣaḍvarga' group. Calculating the dignity of a planet (like being in its own sign or exalted) across these six charts allows the astrologer to determine its 'Viṃśōpaka Bala' (strength on a scale of 20). A planet that is strong in all six charts is said to be extremely powerful and beneficial.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Ṣaḍvarga components in the list are Rāśi, Hōrā, and Drēkkāṇa (A, C, E).