A Lunar Eclipse is the first eclipse of this year which occurs on January 31. Also referred to as ‘Grahan’, the eclipse today is also a total lunar eclipse, which will be visible from many parts of the world. Today, the Moon will be full in Cancer in the constellation or nakshatra of Ashlesha. This Chandra Grahan occurs on Magha Purnima, which also marks the end of Magh Month in North Hindu calendar and concludes the Shukla Paksha of Magha Month. Fascinatingly, this kind of eclipse is happening for the first time in 152 years, as the last one to have occurred was in 1866. While many find eclipses amazing and eagerly waits for its happening, many on the other hand find it inauspicious. As a result, the event holds high religious significance for many Hindus.
Eclipse is of two types, Solar Eclipse and Lunar Eclipse and it occurs when an astronomical object obscure the path of rays partially or fully, due to the placement of a second object. As per the Hindu texts, Rahu and Ketu denote the two points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they move around the celestial sphere. Therefore, Rahu and Ketu are respectively called the North and the South Lunar nodes. Sometimes when the moon passes these nodes, it is aligned perfectly between the earth and the sun to create eclipses. The fact that eclipses occur when Sun and Moon are at one of these points gives rise to the myth of the swallowing of the Sun. In Hindu astrology (Jyotish-Shastra), these cycles of Rahu and Ketu are well known, but their association with eclipses served to make the characters Rahu and Ketu eerily unknown, hidden and dark.
The cycles of the moon have an impact on the human system, physically, psychologically and energy wise. During lunar eclipses, what would happen in 28 days over a full lunar cycle happens subtly over a course of two to three hours and in terms of energy, the earth’s energy mistakes this eclipse as a full cycle of the moon. Thus, Certain things happen on the planet where anything that has moved away from its natural condition will deteriorate very fast. That is why there is a change in the way cooked food is before and after the eclipse. What was nourishing food turns into poison, it is better to keep the stomach empty at this time. Also, the Hindu Temples remain closed during the eclipse and reopen only after conducting purification-related rituals.
As the Lunar Eclipse holds high significance in Hindu Dharma, there are some do and don’ts practices recommended for the lunar eclipse:
- It is suggested not to look at the eclipse.
- Stay inside our home or building for the duration of the eclipse.
- Bathe before and after a visible eclipse.
- Ideally, it is recommended to fast and not eat food, that was cooked before or during the eclipse.
- Do not drink anything 3 hours before a lunar eclipse or during the eclipse.
- Do not expose food to the rays of the Sun or Moon during the eclipse.
- Be of service or volunteer near the day of the eclipse (but not during the timing of the visible eclipse).
- It is advised to perform some charitable acts and serve people during that day for better karma.
- Eclipses are a great time to stay in, meditate, and do your inner work. (In fact, they provide an especially rich opportunity to connect with the self because the ‘veils’ are thin.)
- Chant mantras during this eclipse. Or else, you can chant “Om” or “Om Namah Shivaya”, if you do not have a mantra.
- Do not, on the day of an eclipse or the few days surrounding it, start an important new project, sign a contract, make a deal, or any other material activity.
Eclipses also holds great significance in Jyotish Shastra and this Chandra Grahan is – ‘Rahu Grastha Sampurna Chandra Grahanam’. Here are the Effects of the Lunar Eclipse on Rashis (Moon Sings, Horoscope).
1. Mesha – Aries
They will face several problems due to the eclipse. Hence, it is advised to keep away from problem areas in life and not take any risks during this period.
2. Vrisha – Taurus
The natives of Taurus will reap some favorable results due to this eclipse. There is a strong possibility of some monetary gains due to the eclipse. Be ready for some surprise gains from some unexpected sources.
3. Mithun – Gemini
Gemini born are most likely to find unfavourable results due to this eclipse. The most common problem will be monetary loss. Hence the best stand is to avoid any risky investments and giving loans.
4. Karkata – Cancer
The Cancer natives will be trapped in some miserable situations. Hence the best stand is to avoid indulging in any politics and vulnerable situations.
5. Simha – Leo
The Leos are most likely to face some unexpected losses during this lunar eclipse. Exercise great care and double check the dealings with regard to money matters. Never believe anyone with regard to financial matters. Take the decisions on your own.
6. Kanya – Virgo
The five planets namely Sun, Moon, Mercury, Rahu and Ketu shall highly influence the zodiac signs, Virgo. The results will be a few sleepless nights to those born in the sign of Virgo. This is never favorable time to take any risks. For instance, investments done purely based on speculations might result in unmanageable losses and therefore extreme care must be exercised.
7. Tula – Libra
The results of this eclipse will be happy for the Libra natives. You will find your family relations improve and a better cooperation from friends and colleagues at workplace.
8. Vrischika – Scorpio
This eclipse will bring insult and loss of name to the Scorpio natives. Keep away from evil minded people. Do not indulge in activities that are risky and might pull your down.
9. Dhanush – Sagittarius
The Sagittarius natives must be extremely careful during this eclipse as death is predicted as a result of this eclipse. Drive safely and avoid subjecting yourself to any risky situations.
10. Makara – Capricorn
The Capricorn natives will face some problems from their spouse due to the effects of this lunar eclipse. Deal with your life partner with enough understanding and avoid any types of conflicts.
11. Kumbha – Aquarius
The Aquarius natives will reap happy results from this eclipse. Your relationships will improve and your reputation with people will see a significant development.
12. Meena – Pisces
The Pisces natives will invite unfavourable results due to this eclipse. The most obvious impact will be mental agony due to different kinds of troubles and challenges.