What is the difference between Western Astrology and Vedic Astrology? They appear to be similar since they share many of the same planets, signs and have other common terminology. But in reality, there are enough differences between the two to fill an entire book.
In short, Western Astrology can be especially useful for deeply examining your psychological profile and the qualities of your personality, whereas Vedic Astrology shines by showing you the karmic unfolding of your life and the identification and timing of important events, past, present and future.
This is, in part, due to the following fundamental differences in approach between the two. These are three of the main ones:
The Zodiac
Vedic Astrology uses the Sidereal zodiac, which measures planetary positions in relation to fixed constellations. Western Astrology is based on the Tropical zodiac, based on the four seasons. Thousands of years ago, these two zodiacs lined up perfectly, but they are now about 23 degrees apart.
The Planets
Vedic Astrology uses the seven visible planets and the two nodes (Mars, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, Sun, Moon, Rahu, Ketu) whereas Western Astrology also includes planets and asteroids that can only be viewed with a telescope (Neptune, Pluto, Uranus, and more).
Timing
Vedic Astrology uses a planetary timing sequence, combined with transits, that shows which parts of the chart will be activated and when. Western Astrology looks mainly to transits in the sky for this information.
In the same way that there are different schools of thought and systems for all healing arts, spiritual paths and approaches to life in general, there are many different forms of Astrology. There are even many different lineages of Vedic and Western Astrology, each with their own ways of doing things. One is not superior to another, but different Astrologers may favor a particular system because it works best for them, and for their clients.
At the moment, I primarily use Vedic Astrology but I am also studying other systems may integrate them into readings one day.
