Claudious Ptolemy observed the presence of Saptarishi: Let’s rediscover this major finding of this great astronomer

According to Indian tradition, these pole stars represent the seven sages (Saptarishis).

Thanks to this great Alexandrian mathematician, whose first scientific treatise known as “Almagest” enlightened us about this constellation named ‘Great Bear or Saptarishi’. If you look at the northern sky, a series of stars that will grab your eyes is the ‘Great Bear’ and it was one of the 48 constellations listed by Ptolemy in the 2^nd century AD. He extended the works of the great Greek, Egyptian astronomers and reached a conclusion regarding this third largest constellation. In ancient times, people used to find direction through Saptarishi because of its presence in the Northern Hemisphere. Now, let’s try to join bits and parts to have a wholesome idea about the ‘Great Bear’ –

Characteristics

In 1930, Eugene Delporte officially found the boundaries and defined it as a 28 sided irregular polygon. It is surrounded by eight other constellations like Draco, Bootes, Leo, Leo Minor, Lynx and others. The abbreviation called ‘Uma’ was adopted in the year 1922.

History

Shakespeare mentioned them, such as Homer, Spenser and Fedrico in “Song for the Moon”. Long back in 2^nd century AD it was listed among the 48 constellations by Ptolemy and it has confirmed its place in the literature and art as some of the famous paintings appreciated its aesthetical beauty in an amazing way.

Features

The outline of these seven bright stars of Ursa Major form the “Big Dipper” in the USA and Canada, while in the UK it is historically known as the “Plough”. To add on, the pattern of this constellation is considered as the best known in the sky and its shape resembles a ladle, a wagon or an agricultural plough. They represent the shape of a bear which is the prime reason behind the name ‘Great Bear’.

Myth related to the native Indian tradition

According to Indian tradition, these pole stars represent the seven sages (Saptarishis) named Bhrigu, Atri, Angiras, Vasishtha, Pulastya, Pulaha and Kratu. Amongst them two front stars are explained as the boon given to Dhruva by Lord Vishnu.

Not only in Indian tradition, but also explained in various ways in different parts of the world. And finally, theosophy these seven stars are believed to be the source of spiritual energy.