Qualifications of an Astrologer

   The Sage says: "An astrologer should come from a noble family, should be good to look at, modest in temperament, true, impartial, and with good physique. He has to be active and courageous. He should be clear in his statement, witty, sincere, and free from vices. He should have no stage fear. He should worship Devas; observe fast and penance; and must be conversant with astronomy and astrology. In the astronomical science, there are five schools of thought in India:

   (1). Paulisa

(2). Romaka Siddhanta

(3). Vasishta

(4). Saura

(5). Paitamaha

The astrologer should be thorough with all the Siddhantas. He must be able to understand the objections and points of differences.”

He asks “How could one who has not understood the spirit of the Sastras, be called an astrologer?” And adds that he is only a fool whose interpretation if just opposite to the principles expounded by our sages and commits mistakes in his calculations. Varahamihira admits “It is easy for anybody to cross a sea if the breeze is favorable. But it is not possible for a person who is not a sage to reach the other shore of the ocean of astrology.”

Varahamihira opines that even sages in forests, free from domestic worry, pride, and prejudice, welcome the astrologer and without hesitation take interest in astrology when they, by chance, meet any wise astrologer.