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 :
Sthana Bala – Positional Strength
Dig Bala – Directional Strength
Kala Bala – Temporal Strength
Chesta Bala – Motional Strength
Naisargika Bala – Intrinsic Strength
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.
The combined longitudes of Ascendant, Moon and Gulika are known as Trsiphuta, the Threefold Longitude
Tri = LongMoon + Long Lagna+ Long Guika
Life Energy, Prana is symbolised by Ascendant, Lagnthaymsa Asum, Moon is represented by the Body Physiologic, Vapu Sasabhruto, Death is signified by the Son of Saturn, Mandescha Mritur Vidhu, And all three are indicated by Triune Longitude , Trisphuta