Astrological Mythology The Meaning of ... - Mandhata Global

The reference to the demon Taraka, who was highly devoted to the creator of
the universe but also engaged in tormenting the gods, becomes apt when we
consider mind or intelligence as a double-edged sword. While acting without
self-identification with the objects perceived, it can reveal the mysteries of
the world, and lead to release from material bondage. This is the goal of all
sadhana or spiritual practice. This is what Taraka did in penance and attained
the supreme boon from it. The other side of intelligence, making the
individual self-conscious, induces him to lust after material attainments. This
aspect of the asterism is suggested by Taraka oppressing the gods.
The relating of the God Rudra to this asterism also points to the great
potential inherent in it. The Rudras are mighty powers, the different aspects
of Lord Shiva himself who have fallen into generation. The lust for
immortality characterizes the middle part of this asterism under the rule of
Saturn, while the Jupiterian influence associated with its first and last
quarters shows the positive side of intelligence.
The human head assigned to Ardra has additional meanings. The head is the
seat of the brain and the other glands related to the mind, the jewel in man.
The brain is formed according to our past karma, and on the basis of the
present prompting of the mind our future course of action is dependent. The
possibilities of the human mind acting for constructive as well as for
destructive goals are almost unlimited.
No particular name is given for the jewel associated with Ardra. Gems have
the capacity to absorb influences from the central storehouse of energy, the
Sun. Each gem concentrates certain forces and directs them to us. These
effects can act either for good or ill depending upon how they arc used. Each
individual also has a uniqueness like a gem. This depends on the special
divine energy inherent in him. It is reflected through the activities of the
mind, which is a like gem through which the light of consciousness is
reflected.
The various factors relating to this asterism point to the same thing, the
Mind Principle which is dual in nature. It wreaks havoc in the life of
ordinary people who seek fulfillment in the material world, while higher on
the evolutionary scale, it induces one to seek spiritual knowledge and live in
the reality of consciousness. The emanation from this asterism relates to the
cosmic principle of Mind, Mahat, which in Yogic philosophy is
the main element for the manifestation of the universe.