In the vast design of the universe, human destiny, life patterns, *yoga* (favourable conditions) and *bhoga* (karmic experiences) fall into only twelve categories, known as the twelve zodiac signs (rāśi). These twelve signs arise from the four great elements, and every human being expresses the qualities of these elements through their temperament, instincts and behaviour.
The elemental grouping of the zodiac signs is as follows:
Just as the human body is influenced by the pañcamahābhūta (five great elements), the land of *Bhārat* also reflects this elemental design through five ancient Shiva temples: Earth – Kanchipuram, Water – Tiruvanaikaval, Fire – Tiruvannamalai, Air – Kalahasti, Space – Chidambaram. These elemental centres symbolise how cosmic forces shape human life and inner tendencies.
Below is a traditional outline of how each rāśi relates to time periods, directions, elemental influence and recommended devotional alignment.
These traits are general guidelines; actual behaviour varies according to deeper planetary influences and karmic patterns.