Significance of Sidereal month
The Sidereal month, according to Arthashastra, is a time measurement that spans 27 days and nights. This concept is part of the ancient Indian text's teachings on various topics, including timekeeping and astronomy, indicating the importance of understanding celestial cycles in historical contexts. The definition emphasizes the cyclical nature of time measurements in relation to astronomical observations.
Synonyms: Lunar month, Synodic month, Lunar cycle
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Sidereal month'
In Hinduism, a Sidereal month is interpreted as a lunar calendar cycle lasting 27 days and nights, reflecting the time it takes for the Moon to pass through all 27 nakshatras or lunar mansions.
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) A time measurement comprised of 27 days and nights.[1]
The concept of Sidereal month in local and regional sources
The Sidereal month, lasting approximately 27.33 days, indicates the moon's cycle returning to the same position among the stars. It ties into the concept of nakkhatta-masas and the broader measure of time in relation to the five-year yuga.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) These are nakkhatta-masas, which are used to measure time and are related to the five year yuga.[2] (2) This is the time it takes for the moon to return to the same place among the stars, which is approximately 27.33 days.[3]