Ashtaka means
“consisting of Eight” and Varga means “a group”. Ashtakavarga is the system of
analyzing a chart with respect to a group of 8 reference points.
We have 7 planets as the reference points and the the Lagna,
making it 8 (Ashtak) .
The Ashtakavarga system is a method of calculating the powers
of the planets relative to each other. For each and every house, all
seven planets contribute their power or strength in terms of numerical value.
This makes it easy to compare the powers of the planets for each house. There
is no other system which can give such a clear cut view of the comparative
strengths of all the plane
The individual Ashtakavarga chart is also known as the Bhinnashtakavarga.
The
combined effect given in one chart is known as the total Ashtakavarga chart or
the Sarvashtakavarga chart.
The total of benefic and malefic points in a house, for a
planet is eight (8).
The “0”s are called Bindus or Benefic Points while “1”s are called Rekhas or Malefic Points. (Consider reverse in North India)