Introduction to the Asheville Vedic Astrology Apprenticeship Course

Introduction

In this program we will focus on developing the knowledge required to understand the formula of reading an astrological chart with accuracy and precision. The courses may be taken by the general public interested in increasing knowledge on a particular astrological subject, yet the program’s content is designed for the participation of a dedicated apprentice.

An apprentice is one studying to learn a trade from one practicing professionally in that trade. At the successful conclusion of any apprenticeship, the apprentice will either be able to serve at the level of the mentor or ideally, exceed the mentor’s capacity. Upon completion of this course work and approval from one’s mentor, the apprentice will ideally have the capacity to serve as an astrologer and also teach others, with clarity. Such approval is given individually on a case by case basis.

This program is designed to intelligently introduce the student to the building blocks of astrology. Each puzzle piece will be studied and analyzed independently. There will be no rush to encourage participants to begin reading charts. It is our goal to teach you well, rather than to send you off to try and read a chart with only a fraction of the knowledge necessary to enable you to do so.

For one intent on the knowledge astrology can provide, both for personal understanding and service to others, it will be clear that before an astrological equation can be calculated and the result understood, each variable must similarly be fully realized. The capacity to read the astrological chart is equivalent to the final result of the properly understood equation. Every planet, sign, house, calculation and technique must be understood by itself first, so that the astrologer can then create the proper equation for deep understanding. Anything else is relying on guesswork or intuition, both of which are not always dependable.

It is the mission and vision of this Astrology Apprenticeship Program to patiently teach, from the ground up and in detail, what is required to be the best astrologer possible in this current era. It will require commitment to study, developing attention, learning to communicate the principles and, for those interested, a capacity to teach clearly what has been learned through the vast ocean of astrological wisdom.

In each course we will explore the appropriate astrological material from many angles and vantage points. We will review the ancient texts and learn how to actually learn from those texts, rather than attempt to do cook-book astrology. We will focus on contemplative practices to facilitate one’s personal and direct experience of the inner meaning and worth of astrology.Even for one not intent on becoming an astrologer, the proper study of astrology can reveal a philosophy of life of uncompromising beauty and logic. Astrology is a path that enables one to expand one’s vision and also provide guidance for those searching.

Apprenticeship Program Curriculum

This astrological program was originally divided into a four year curriculum, each year providing the opportunity to study three facets of astrology. They are now offered available to you without breaks between semesters or between years. You can proceed straight through the training, as you are able.

The basic curriculum follows. The curriculum will be delivered as video/audio courses. Material will be taught primarily from Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, Yavana Jataka, Sarvartha Chintamani, Jaimini Sutras and supplemented by other texts related to the appropriate topic. Relevant astrological techniques will be included in each course.

Section 1

  • Rasi and Signs Course – 21 Hours
  • Bhava and Houses Course – 17.5 Hours
  • Grahas and Planets Course – 17.5 Hours

Section 2

  • Planetary Strength and Mathematical Influence – 21 Hours
  • Introduction to Planetary Relationships and States – 21 Hours
  • Planetary Combinations and Mathematical Yogas – 16 Hours

Section 3

  • The Power of Rahu and Ketu – 16 Hours
  • Application of the Vargas – 18 Hours
  • Timing with Dashas and Transits – 16 Hours

Time Commitment

Each course averages a duration of 6-8 weeks in length, with a lecture of 2-3 hours per week. After polling past students, some have said they spent a minimum 2 additional hours per week in note taking, writing and reading. Some have said they spent an additional 6 hours a week. All students learn and study on a different schedule and at a different pace. However, we want you to be aware of the potential time commitment before beginning this course. We realize that life happens, but we also expect students to undertake this study when they are sure they have a life conducive to study and contemplation. Plan on studying an additional 2-6 hours a week above and beyond the course lecture material.

Students retain access to the material for the duration of the student's subscription.

If a student needs to pause or cancel their subscription, the student will be able to continue where they left off so long as they use the same login in credentials to renew the subscription.

Resources from Previous Classes

The following resources will give you a glimpse into the work done and teaching style of these Astrology Apprenticeship Track courses. Click on the links below to read papers published on this site from previous students. You may also visit the blog portion of www.ashevillevedicatsrology.com for more submissions from past students. Papers that are written thoughtfully, clearly and with proper astrological knowledge may be published on the Asheville Vedic Astrology blog. You will also find links to video excerpts of the classes themselves.

Homework Examples from Previous Students

Evolution of the Zodiac Signs

Calculating Planetary Dignity and its Usefulness

Strong or Weak Houses in Vedic Astrology

David Bowie’s Astrology

A Study of Angelina Jolie’s Chart

Class Video Excerpts

How Are Astrological Signs of the Zodiac Related to the Chakras – Rasis and Signs Class Excerpt

Secrets of Planetary Dignity – Bhavas and Houses Class Excerpt

How do Planets Represent Your Karma – Grahas and Planets Class Excerpt

Conclusion

We are living in a time of rebirth for the art and science of astrology. This ancient Meta-science is being rediscovered and cultivated by many intelligent writers, teachers and researchers. We are just at the beginning and as we dive deeper into our contemplations and astrological research, the coming decades and centuries will reveal a wealth of information yet undiscovered. Our aim with this Apprenticeship program is to educate students as clearly and lucidly as possible on the subtle complexity and vast breadth of this timeless philosophy. We are far from knowing all that is astrologically possible, but with patience, commitment and devotion we can serve as the link from past masters and prepare the ground for those that are to come.

Astrology does not belong to the East or to the West and it is not the inheritance of only one cultural state. If it is a science and not merely a belief system or faith, then its tenants will be true beyond singular traditions. As astrological apprentices you will be encouraged to delve into the history of astrology on a global scale. In this program, our foundation is in the tradition of Vedic Astrology, but as your intelligence and understanding develops, if you find techniques from other cultures or traditions that work, you will not be dissuaded from doing research to share your realization. We will not approach our work from dogma, but with a curious, open, yet discerning mind. The goal, if possible, will be to see the overarching methods of astrology, holistically, beyond borders, for the good of all. Our goal will be to focus on and explore what works, because it works and for no other reason.

Shall we begin?


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