The speed of the moon always fluctuates, which is calculated on
the basis of the sun’s speed. The sun and the moon art board of days and night
respectively. My are indissoluble linked. Their meeting at one place is called
‘ijtima-e-nayyarain’ or ismaq. The Indians know it as amaavas. That day, the moon remains
invisible due to being overcast by sunrays. When after amavas the moon is at a
distance of 12 degrees from the sum it is slightly visible and every day to increase in its distance from the same it assumes more and more light till at a
distance of 180 degrees the entire moon is illumined. This state is called purnmashi by the Indians. Then it again
performs its movement around the sun. Its light gradually dwindles as it had started increasing earthier its sphere gets blackened due to its closeness
to the sun. The moon’s light shows an increase and recession every month. Indian
astrologers have named the moon’s light and dark portions Shukl-paksh and Krishn-paksh. The paksh or phase in which
the moon is full bright gives pleasure to the Gods. The phase in which the moon has
a darker disposition gives pleasure to demons. That is why the brighter phase
in purnmashi Shukl-paksh has been ascribed to gods and the Krishn-paksh up to
amavas to demons.
Dr. A. Shanker
www.ShankerStudy.com
www.ShankerAdawal.com