Jyotish is the science of discerning and understanding the subtle influences which come to us from the cosmic environment and our tendencies in response to those influences. These influences and tendencies are a reflection of the Law of Karma where both fate and free will are at play.
Fate means that our present circumstances are a result of our actions in the past.
The external events of our lives are determined by our past choices and actions. Free will means that our future can be shaped by our attitudes, choices and actions in the present. Jyotish can help us understand how to optimize our potential and realistically evaluate our talents and abilities. It can give us a forecast of the changing trends and periods in our lives. It can counsel when and how to make more evolutionary choices so we may develop in the direction of our true destiny.