Siddhanta Shiromani (Crown of Treatises)

...presided over by the planets and their orbits. Here it is explained: first, extending from the Earth's center bhū-madhya In this geocentric model, the Earth's center is the reference point for all celestial distances., the system is bound by the characteristics of "wind-threads" marut-sūtra. Along these threads, the Planets graha are arranged according to the sequence of their respective orbits.

Furthermore, the Celestial Circle bha-cakra The zodiac or the sphere of fixed stars. is divided into twelve parts. From the center of the Earth, lines are drawn to mark these divisions. Each of these parts is then subdivided into thirty degrees aṃśa. These lines, bound and divided in many ways, are established for the calculation of the planets. Where these lines intersect saṃpāta, the planets are observed in their specific signs and degrees.

Now, regarding the revolutions of these planets and the cosmic cycles: a powerful force known as the Proelling Wind pravaha original: "प्रवह" — the primary wind responsible for the daily rotation of the heavens. is positioned there. The celestial sphere, which carries the motion of the stars, is set into a slow movement manda-gati.

Through the connection to these "reins of wind" vāta-raśmi A poetic and technical term describing the invisible forces that tether planets to their orbital paths, like reins guiding a horse., the planets are moved toward the west. This specific topic will be seen in much greater detail in the section regarding the Celestial Sphere gola.

The Layers of the Atmosphere

The Terrestrial Wind bhū-vāyu envelopes the Earth. Above this resides the Pravaha wind. Beyond that is the wind known as the Saṃvaha, followed by the Parivaha, and finally the Parāvaha wind. These are the famous winds of the cosmos.

The terrestrial atmosphere bhū-vāyu extends ten leagues yojana original: "दशयोजनानि" — Ten yojanas. While a yojana is often roughly 8-9 miles, in cosmological contexts, these numbers often represent symbolic or specific mathematical ratios. above the surface of the Earth; this is the realm of clouds ambuda and lightning vidyut.

Above this terrestrial layer lies the Proelling Wind pravaha, which is in constant and rapid motion. Situated in the midst of this current is the collection of Constellations nakṣatra. Combined with these winds, the entire "Cage of Stars" bha-pañjara A traditional term for the fixed stars as a singular, rotating unit. revolves, driven by the force of the Pravaha air.

Thus, regarding the conceptualization of the planets and the celestial circle... this is how the stars become visible to our sight.