Meaning
One of the 27 lunar mansions dividing the zodiac into 13°20' segments; the Moon's daily position.
Etymology
From Sanskrit nakṣatra — possibly from na-kṣatrā (that which does not decay/perish), referring to the eternal stars.
Detailed Explanation
The nakshatra system divides the 360° zodiac into 27 equal segments of 13°20' each, corresponding to approximately one day of the Moon's orbital journey. Each nakshatra has a ruling planet (nakshatra lord or swami), a presiding deity (devata), a symbol, and specific qualities. The Moon's nakshatra at birth is one of the most important points in Vedic astrology — it governs the first planetary period (mahadasha) in the Vimshottari dasha system and deeply influences personality, emotions, and karmic path.