The fourth nakshatra is named Rohini. It is placed entirely within the constellation of Taurus the Bull. The Moon is in its mulatrikona sign in Rohini and also rules this lunar mansion. Beauty, sensuality, charisma and charm can be reflected here. Its primary’ motivation, though, is moksha or spiritual liberation. According to Dr. B.V. Raman, Sri Krishna had both his Lagna (Ascendant) and natal Moon residing in Rohini.1 The ruling deity is Brahma, the creator of the universe. Thus, tremendous creativity
and gifts in the fine arts can result with planets posited here. The sign of Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus. A Moon-Venus creative chemistry is the magical blend of this lunar mansion. Rohini is translated to mean “the red one.” “the red cow,” or “the growing one.” It is located near the pale rose star of Aldebaran. It consists of five stars in the head of Taurus the Bull. Aldebaran is considered the red eye of the bull. This constellation (the Hyades) is near the ecliptic, so planets passing through Rohini can be more readily seen. The symbol for this asterism is an ox eart or chariot. It is rajasic in nature and reflects the need for travel and movement. Another symbol for Rohini is a temple. In South India this asterism is depicted as a banyan tree, which provides shade and protection to humanity. Rohini is
named “the star of ascent” and gives rise to prominence and influence in society. The residing deity of Rohini is Prajapati, the Creator. Its power is growth {rohana shakii).- This shakti fosters growth and creation on all levels, bestowing fertility. Prajapati is the great creator who can bestow anything we desire. Thus, we must take care in deciding what we really want. Rohini embodies the cosmic preparation needed to facilitate the growth and development of our creative potential. Taurus is an earth sign which signifies that the fruits of one’s actions can be fully realized here. Fulfillment of one’s earthly desires and artistic expression can 15 ‘The Nakshatras—The Lunar Mansions of Vedic Astrology’
blossom in this lunar mansion. Deep devotion and faith in God can be experienced. Heaven can descend to the earth plane through Rohini. Spiritual strength and responsibility are revealed here. The animal symbol, a male serpent, reflects the spiritual power and wisdom that can reside in Rohini. The shadow side of Rohini can involve indulgence and materialism. The person may seek luxury without considering
the price. The person may “win the kingdom, but lose his soul.’’ Since Rohini is located in the head of Taunis the Bull, an obstinate, bull-headed nature may occur at times. Taurus is a fixed
sign that is often related to a stubborn personality style. A short temper and critical nature may be seen. Issues w’ith jealousy and possessiveness may be a theme in this asterism. The Hindu mythological tale involved with Rohini reflects the creation of the 27 nakshatras and their shadow side.
According to the Puranic myth, Brahma produced ten ‘Prajapatis or divine beings to assist him in manifesting the universe. One of the celestial architects, named Daksha, fathered 60 daughters,
of whom 27 represented the nakshatras. They were given as a gift to the Moon god. Of his 27 wives, Rohini was his favorite due to her beauty, grace, and charm. This aroused hostility and
jealousy among her 26 sisters. They complained to Brahma and Daksha, and a curse was placed on the Moon. Upon realizing how ill their husband was becoming, they pleaded with Brahma
to lift the curse. But once a curse is cast it cannot be fully taken back. Thus, according to Vedic lore, the Moon must wax and wane for eternity due to this misdeed of the heart. In his book. Myths and Symbols of Vedic Astrology, Bepin Behari writes, “if an individual becomes possessive and begins pursuing the objects of the senses to the detriment of his other faculties, he is caught in the tidal waves of growth and decay. This is the status of the Moon after being cursed by Brahma for his infatuation with Rohini. This is a prosperous lunar mansion which can create desires and sensory attachments. Rohini is that attraction which compels the Divinity in man to lose its pristine
memory and become immersed in worldly gratification.