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Horary astrology

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Horary astrology, also known as Interrogational astrology or Prasna in Vedic astrology, is an extension of the principles of Electional astrology to the answering of questions.

Horary astrology is a branch of horoscopic astrology by which an astrologer will try to answer a question by drawing up an astrological chart or horoscope for the exact time and place at which that question came to mind or when it was put to them. The theory is that since a question exists and is formulated at a specific moment in time, then the answer must also exist at that moment in time. The answer might be a simple yes or no, but is generally more complex with insights into, for example, the motives of the questioner and the options available to them.

Horary astrology originated and has been practiced for centuries in India and is known as Prasna Shastra (Sanskrit prasna, question); it is a branch of Vedic astrology, which is still widely used across the Indian subcontinent. The more advanced form of this is the Astamangalam Prasna and Deva Prashna methods of Kerala, India. Also, the Prashna Marga Lit (The Path of Horary Astrology) by Harihara and Krishneeyam is a very famous classic work.

Technique

Horary astrology has its own set of strict rules, for example the [[1]] are very important. The questioner is represented by the ruler of the first house of the chart, and the application and separation of planetary aspects to are considered more important than in other branches of astrology (although it is the planetary rulers of the houses in question that take precedent in analyzing the question). Other key elements used in horary astrology include the lunar nodes, the planetary antiscia, and the Hellenistic Lots or "Arabic Parts".

A chart is cast for the moment that the question is asked to the astrologer- the moment that the astrologer receives and understands the question seems to be the crucial moment. Although some astrologers are experienced enough to ask their own horary questions, some of the old texts advise against this for various reasons¹, and it seems to be generally accepted that the actual act of presenting the question to the astrologer and their comprehension of the question is the moment for the chart.

For more on technique, please see Interpreting horaries

Notes

Note 1: For example in Masha'allah's 9th century book 'On Reception' he says in regards to horary questions "In addition, it is not suitable for a sage to look on his own behalf. It is necessary that he asks of another." Source: Masha'allah 'On Reception' translated by Rob Hand, ARHAT Publications, 1998, ISBN 0-9662266-3-1