Varahamihira

Number of children 1. The number of children can be found out by counting the Navamsa gained by the 5th lord. For example, the 5th lord is placed in Virgo Rasi and Gemini Navamsa. Counting from Gemini (Navamsa) to Virgo Rasi [Virgo (6) - Gemini (3) = 3], we have four signs, i.e., the 5th lord has to gain three Navamsas to reach Virgo or upto three children should be anticipated (COVA- Page 190). This is however a crude method can can be used with care. Max. no. of child = Rasi sign – Navamsa Sign Pt. Rath says that, for this method to work, the 5th lord should be placed with the Jupiter (Karaka for Navamsa). However, from an illustration given in Page 200 of COVA, we see that this is not a necessary condition. Here Mars is not associated or aspected by Jupiter, but the Lagna is aspected by Jupiter from the 7th, through Rasi and Graha Drsti both. Here we might conclude that for this method to work, Jupiter should be strongly placed in the horoscope and influence the factors of progeny.