Introduction to Tibetan Astrology

Traditional Tibetan Astrology originates from two distinct systems, the one of the Cycles of Animals and Elemental Astrology or 'byung rtsis, and the one from the Highest Yoga Tantra of Kalachakra, Kalachakra Astrology, or sKar-rtsis. sKar-rtsis also includes astrological calculations and interpretations from Yangchar (Shivasvarodhaya tantra). Although influenced by early Bon and Chinese astrology, the elemental approach took a unique course of development within Tibet.

Astronomy (Tib. sKar-rtsis)

The sKar-rtsis approach to astrology is based upon the calculation of the signs, constellations and planets and their inter-relationships. In the Kalacakra Tantra as a whole, the subject matter is usually divided into three wheels, or phases, known as the External, Internal and Alternative Wheels.

The External wheel is the External Cosmos, with the cycles of the planets, constellations and stars, and this includes a system of both astronomy and astrology. The Internal wheel is the internal Cosmos of chakras (wheels), channels and energies within the body, and their relation to the cycles of the External Cosmos. This section contains a basis for understanding how the planets effect us through the mechanism of the subtle body. The Alternative wheel is the yogic technique for purifying and transforming the inner and outer energies to release our innate awareness and capacities. These are all depicted within the Kalachakra Mandala.

Elemental Astrology (Tib. Nag-rtsis)

This mainly consists of a 60-year cycle of animals and elements. Tibetan elemental astrology, 'byung-rtsis, which draws from Classical Elemental Astrology, is the ancient art of calculation and interpretation of celestial phenomena. Classical Elemental Astrology or nag-rtsis is based on the five elements, the twelve-year cycle, eight par-kha or trigrams, and nine sme-ba or magic square numbers. Tibetan astrologers use these to calculate horoscopes along the four major themes: one's life span, physical condition, economic and political power, and overall luck in business and work.

Shiva Sarvodaya Tantra (Tib. dbyang-char)

The astrology of rising sounds – is a system of astrological wheels for a wide variety of results. The Arising Vowel System, dbyangs-char, which assigns a different vowel to each of the days of the month, and calculates its effect on individuals and nations.