Strangely so in Vastu Shastra, the sub-cardinal directions have been given much more importance than the main Cardinal directions. While in the last post of South- Friend or Foe, one of the major myths of the main Cardinal direction "South" was discussed. Vastu talks about the balance of the 5 basic elements of the Universe in every building constructed that is occupied by people. Incidentally the Panch- Mahabhoota ( 5 elements of the Universe) are also associated with the Sub-Cardinal directions. The Earth, Water, Fire, Air and space are associated with the SW, NE, SE, NW and Center of the building respectively. It is the balance of these five basic elements in the dwelling unit that relate the importance and significance of Vastu. While the main Cardinal directions and the orientation of a building according to these main Cardinal directions are of equal importance, South West has been given major impetus while planning construction of a building.
Reason- Nairutya- God of Demon...
Each of the five Tatvas are actually representative of Hindu deities as well who reside in buildings and occupy space in each such building. Hindu Mythology associates the 5 elements with Lords of such elements as well ( Lords of Fire, Water, Space etc.). This concept is derived from the fact that every building is occupied by the Vastu Purusha ( A meta physical identity of the Power of Vastu) and the relevance is explained in the previous post- "Vastu has a Mythological Bend". One such god is Nairutya, God of the Demons. It is therefore imperative that the demons be kept at bay and any defiance in the rules of the shastra will cause unrest and demons will influence the well being of the occupier. Besides, the Earth element is also associated with this sub cardinal direction which also signifies stability in the life of the occupier. Each of these directions Cardinal/Sub Cardinal associate a celestial body ( cosmic Forces) and in this case it is RAHU, the planet of Defiance and Denial. The planet RAHU in astrology is also responsible for major issues in the life of an individual if not influenced by the Benefic.
We are now aware of at-least the ill effects of the South West if not taken care can result in a troubled or stressed lives of the Occupier. Does that mean the other directions are of less importance? In their own parlance, absolutely not. But when viewed in conjunction, SW has its own predominance. In todays world of construction and town planning, Cardinal directions are quietly ignored by authorities and therefore the buildings now a days are more aligned to the Sub Cardinal as against the Cardinal. We therefore have inclined plots/flats/buildings which need to be handled with more care while planning for construction activities.
Inclined plots- Await my next Post
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