Is There Such A Thing As A Bad Chart? Vedic Astrology Explained

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Vedic astrology, like many holistic practices that give us insight into our personality, life, and even future occurrences, can provide guidance and comfort. In the same way, it may agitate or trigger existing issues, and create doubt and fear. The experience can depend on the type of reading and astrologer we are working with, the mental space we are in, and undoubtedly, what type of questions we are asking.

When we might be experiencing difficulties in our life, we begin to wonder what our natal chart has to say about that. Unsurprisingly, one of the questions I commonly get as a Vedic astrologer is – Do I have a good (or a bad) chart?

People who approach me for Vedic astrology readings find themselves in different situations, are of different ages, and come from all walks of life. They might be going through a transformational experience, are experiencing great shifts in life, want to make big changes, or are simply interested in knowing what the stars have in store for them.

However, there is an underlying theme that brings them to the point of consulting an astrologer, and that is usually a deep and important question about an area in their life. Regardless of what that question refers to, ultimately we all want to know the same thing – When (and how) am I going to be happy?

The same led me to my first Astrology consultation all the way back in high school. I was at a crossroads, wondering what should I do as a great decision about my future lay ahead. But underneath my questions about college, travel, work, and dharma (life purpose and path), I wanted to know – How to find my own path. What to do to be happy and complete?

We might formulate that question in different ways, such as “Am I going to find true love”; “How to find success in my business endeavors”, or even “What is my life’s purpose”? We might discuss various areas of life that are of importance to the individual, such as family, relationships, and personality. But underneath it all, we are all seeking to know how to find happiness, which is the best route to it, and when is it going to finally arrive.

As we ask ourselves (and our astrologer) that question, inevitably there is a little spark of doubt that follows.” Am I ever going to be happy?” “Am I going to get my desires fulfilled?” “Does my chart say I will get what I want?” “Are there any hard times predicted ahead?”

And if it might seem that we often do not get what we want, have been stuck in a period that seems rather unlucky, or have had unpleasant, difficult, and challenging experiences, we inevitably begin to wonder – “What if I have a bad chart”?

I often hear that question when discussing very sensitive topics, such as the care and happiness of our loved ones, soulmate search, and life lessons.

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Is there such a thing as a bad chart? What is Vedic astrology’s perspective on this sensitive topic?

First of all, what is Vedic astrology or Jyotish?

The word Jyoti means “light”, and the science of Jyotish serves as an illumination for one’s life path ahead. With the help of Jyotish, one is able to see above and beyond the surface, into one’s own psychology, desires, and life lessons, as well as uncover details about past experiences, and see what lays ahead. This profound and mathematically sophisticated form of astrology originates in the ancient Vedic traditions of India and is a sister science to Yoga, Ayurveda (medicinal science of life), and Vastu (harmony of space). The primary goal of this practice is understanding one’s life journey.

The premise of Jyotish lies in complex philosophical schools of Vedic tradition, which teach that one isn’t born a “blank slate”, but rather carries karma, experiences, and life lessons with them from one life to the next. By carefully reading the astronomical disposition at the exact time of one’s birth, and the planetary patterns, Jyotish allows us to draw a chart of one’s life, the upcoming periods, and various effects. Instead of looking at it as planets affecting one’s life, it’s an idea that one’s chart serves as a road map to one’s life, personality traits, and future experiences.

Used as a form of Vedic psychology tool, Jyotish can help us to realistically evaluate our strengths and challenges, desires and fears, in order to unlock our full potential. The ultimate goal is to help us objectively understand our minds, and emotions, and assist in making more evolutionary choices, taking a bigger picture into account.

So, can one have a “bad chart”?

Taking all that into consideration, yes it is possible to conclude one life path is easier or filled with more pleasant experiences than another. One person may have accumulated, with their actions, decisions, and mindset, better karma than another. But that is not all there is to it!

According to Jyotish, there is no such thing as good or bad experiences, but rather different situations and periods in life, serving a higher purpose in the soul’s path. When understanding that each area of our life, family, business, education, and partnership, requires a specific attitude and understanding, one can draw the best conclusions and forms of action. In the same way, different periods of our lives are meant to be dedicated to specific activities, and when following the natural astrological inclinations, one can remove worry, suffering, and frustration by understanding the nature of each period and taking proper actions in line with that period’s qualities and aspects.

Besides explanation and an objective perspective, Jyotish offers specific practical remedial measures in areas of our life or personality that are challenging. From lifestyle tips to specific mantras, to positive affirmations, the tools are there to alleviate suffering, and difficulties, and grow one’s positive qualities, leading their life towards success, true happiness, spiritual connection, and universal harmony.

Therefore, even if one has challenges written in their natal chart, Vedic Astrology offers both the proper mindset on how to approach them and remedial tools on how to best take advantage of every experience life has in store for us.