Placement: 10° 00’ to 23° 20’ of Virgo
Element: Fire (Agni)
Pushkara Navamsha/Bhaga: 2nd pada/NA
This nakshatra emphasizes the importance of focus and attention to detail, as these qualities are essential for the magic to happen. The name "Hasta" in Sanskrit means "hands", specifically referring to the palm, and is represented by five stars symbolizing the five fingers. It possesses the ability to manifest desires through the use of hands. As hands are the primary tools we use to perform daily tasks, Hasta is considered an action-oriented nakshatra.
Natural healers: Ashwini, Ardra, Pushya, Hasta, Anuradha, Moola, Dhanishta, Satabishak, Revati.
Symbol: Hasta nakshatra's symbolism includes the "hands", particularly the palm region, and the "potter's wheel". The hands represent actions, future (as seen in palmistry), support, warmth, giving and receiving, trickery, hand symbols, and communication (as in sign language). Therefore, this nakshatra is capable of multitasking. The potter's wheel symbolizes hard work, refinement, and the time required to achieve perfection. Hasta nakshatra places great importance on time and achieving perfection.
Deity: The deity associated with Hasta nakshatra is the Sun God "Savitur," who is one of the 12 Adityas. Savitur represents the first rays of the morning sun that fall on the earth. It is believed that by chanting the "Gayatri Mantra" from the Rig Veda bestowed by Sage Vishwamitra, we worship Savitur, the God of this nakshatra, every day.
| Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah,
Tat Savitur Varenyam,
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi,
Dhiyo Yo Nah, Prachodayat ||
As we are aware, mantras have a deep connection with spirituality, memory, and the power of the mind. Thus, the Hasta nakshatra is closely associated with mantras and hand gestures, also known as mudras, which are used during mantra chanting.
Ruler: As Moon rules over this nakshatra, it is considered a worldly one that deals with practical matters. Being associated with the Sun, Moon, and Mercury (all padas are in Virgo), it has a strong connection to cultural values and traditions of civilizations. Mercury's duality adds to this energy, with the ability to change rapidly without detection. Thus, we can see a combination of Sun and Moon's energy with Mercury's duality, creating a birthplace for magic, trickery, tactics, enchantments, and other such phenomena.
Animal: The female buffalo, though slow in its movements, contributes to the carefulness and balance associated with this nakshatra.
Guna: Chitra is a tamasic nakshatra that places a significant emphasis on creating balance in the mundane and materialistic aspects of life.
Power: It symbolizes the power of "Hasta Sthapaniya Agama Shakti" which enables one to quickly manifest their desires into reality.
General attributes: People born under the Hasta nakshatra are believed to have a natural inclination towards magic, although they may not necessarily be professional magicians. They may enjoy performing tricks occasionally and their connection to this nakshatra is believed to be due to the fact that magicians often use their hands to perform their tricks. Because hands are essential for almost all tasks, Hasta nakshatra is generally considered favorable for skilled workers. For instance, if someone is an excellent cook, it is often said that their hands work magic in the kitchen. In addition, the Sanskrit word "Has" in the name Hasta means "laughter," suggesting that those born under this nakshatra have the ability to make clever decisions and bring joy to others.
To better comprehend nakshatras, try to envision them as a person or entity. This method is also part of Hasta's skillset, which includes number crunching and memory patterns. Hasta associates memories with objects, making it easier to retain information for longer periods of time. This approach is similar to how deaf musicians associate notes with colors and blind individuals link smells to specific materials. Keep in mind that these are general qualities, and reader discretion is advised.
Political Party: If you're from India then you may wonder if the famous political party "Indian National Congress" has anything to do with "Hasta" as their party symbols are nothing but hands. Yes, you are right, you can understand a lot about Hasta by reading their history.