A SHORT PRIMER ON JYOTISH
THE 12 BHAVAS—HOUSES
The positions of the Grahas in the Rashis and Nakshatras form the basis of the birth horoscope. The 360 degrees surrounding the earth are divided into 12 sections, each 30 degrees. These 12 sections are called the 12 Bhavas or Houses. The first Bhava is the section on the eastern horizon.
Whichever Rashi is rising on the eastern horizon at the time of birth of a person or event is called the Ascendant, or Lagna. So the Rashi which is in the First Bhava (or House) for an individual is called his or her Ascendant. The rest of the Rashis will be placed in the birth chart in sequential order. In the graphic below, we see that Aries (Mesha) Rashi is in the first Bhava. Therefore, for this person, Aries will be his/her Ascendant. Taurus will be in the 2nd house. Gemini is the 3rd. Etc.
The Circle of 12 Rashis with Reference to the Earth