UUttanka
Vedic astrology glossary

Ashtakavarga

A points system that scores each sign and house to gauge planetary and transit strength.

Ashtakavarga ('the eightfold division') is a numerical system that assigns benefic points to each sign based on the positions of the seven planets and the lagna. Each planet contributes a chart of points, and these combine into the Sarvashtakavarga, a total score for all twelve signs.

The point totals give a quick, quantitative read on which signs and houses are well supported and which are weak. A sign with a high score is considered favourable for the planets and transits passing through it; a low score warns of less support.

Astrologers use ashtakavarga especially to refine transit (gochara) predictions — a planet transiting a high-scoring sign tends to give better results. It is a practical strength-measuring tool used alongside dignity and shadbala, not a standalone forecast.

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Related terms

ShadbalaGochara (Transit)Bhava (House)

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