Sixfold Planetary Strength

SHAD BALAS OR SIXFOLD SOURCE OF PLANETARY STRENGTH

Shad bala means the sixfold source of planetary strength. There
are six kinds of potency in the Parasari System. They are :

1. Sthana Bala – Positional Strength
2. Dig Bala – Directional Strength
3. Kala Bala – Temporal Strength
4. Chesta Bala – Motional Strength
5. Naisargika Bala – Intrinsic Strength
6. Drik Bala – Aspectual Strength

Application of Shad Balas

The importance of and the part played by the Shad Balas in the
science of horoscopy are manifold. The application of any one
particular system depends on the strength and weakness of cer-
tain planets and Bhavas. For instance in deciding the Dasanat-
ardasa( periods and subperiods ) the first period is attributed
to the most powerful of the Lagna the Sun & the Moon. Whether
the Sun or Lagna is more powerful can be determined only when
their respective strengths are known. In protraying the future
results indicated by the different Bhavas their strengths are
of considerable importance. Suppose we consider the period of
the Sun and bhukti of the Moon.In order to predict the various
results care should be taken to see which planet more powerful
or has greater strength. If the Sun is more powerful than the
Moon then the results likely to happen would be predominantly
those indicated by the Sun. If the Moon is more powerful during
his sub-period the Moon’s influence will be felt in preference
to that of the Sun even though the latter may be the major lord.
Thus when the Shadbalas are ascertained correctly future progno-
stications can be ventured with sufficient confidence. The Shad
balas in other words give an account of the assets & liabilities
of each house and planet in the horoscope.

Shad Balas are measured in shastiamsas or units of 60. 60 shast-
iamsas make a Rupa.

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