Basic timing: what are Maha-Dashas?

One example of the difference between Western Tropical Zodiac astrology and Jyotish (Vedic Astrology) is the dasha system. The dasha system is a timing system that Vedic Astrology uses for the ripening of karmas and the unfolding events within those planetary themes.

There are major time periods the “Maha-Dasha” and then “Sub-Dashas”. The sub-dasha system can go several layers deep with sub-sub-sub dashas. However, of primary influence is the Maha-Dasha and first sub-dasha. By looking at those two planets, their rulership and house or bhava placement, you can learn a lot about the karmas that are currently ripening and coming into effect.

For example, I am currently in my Mars Maha-Dasha as of this writing. The Mars Maha-Dasha means that during this time, the planet Mars, as well as the houses it rules and the house it occupies, come fully into focus and related karmas ripen. For me, because Mars is my 3rd and 8th lord, I have 3rd and 8th house themes that come to the fore. The 8th house is the house of the hidden, occult, esoteric, astrology, Reiki, secret societies, deep unconscious, sex, and legacies. It makes sense that during this time my astrological career has really taken off and the focus on it has greatly intensified, especially since my Mars is in my 10th house of career.

With the Maha-Dasha system you can see which planetary influences are primary in your life and how, as the sub-dasha (or minor period) planets get activated, you will have specific karmas ripening. Looking for clarity on career? When a planet in the 10th house, ruling the 10th house, or aspecting the 10th house becomes activated via Maha-Dasha or sub-dasha, you are far more likely to experience big changes in your career, all based on the dignity and indications of that planet. For example, if you have Venus, ruler of the 10th in the 10th becoming activated at the beginning of your Venus Maha-Dasha, you might have a career in fashion and beauty absolutely take off, as these are indications of Venus. The Maha-Dasha system of karmic timing is an incredible resource for discovering what your current life focus is and what is likely to unfold for you over the next few years.