In the sacred tradition, certain celestial conjunctions are especially auspicious. When the star Mūla aligns with Jyeṣṭhā, and Rohiṇī joins with Agni, these moments are regarded as highly favorable. By performing prescribed rites during such times, the lunar days themselves become auspicious, particularly when these conjunctions occur during the day. A lunar day attains its auspiciousness when it coincides with a particular star and conjunction, making it an ideal time for sacred observances. For instance, the Śravaṇa Dvādaśī vow should be observed when the corresponding lunar day extends into sunrise, ensuring its efficacy and sanctity. All transitions of the sun from one sign to another are declared to be auspicious periods. Among these, the sun’s entry into Cancer marks the beginning of its southern course, known as the Dakṣiṇāyana. Similarly, solar transitions into Taurus, Scorpio, Leo, and Aquarius, as well as Libra and Aries—both before and after the actual transition—are all considered auspicious. The same holds true for Virgo, Gemini, Pisces, and Sagittarius. Most notably, the sun’s transition into Capricorn is revered as the commencement of its northern course, called Uttarāyaṇa. During these times, consideration should also be given to the positions of the sun and moon, particularly if they are setting at the time of the observance. The moon itself is known by different names depending on its visibility: when seen, it is called Sinīvālī; when hidden, it is known as Kuhū. For twice-born men performing śrāddha rites with fire, the presence of Sinīvālī—the visible moon—is especially recommended. When the new moon day (amāvāsyā) extends over two afternoons, or if the new moon is observed after midday, certain rules apply. In the case of an extremely waning fortnight, the following day should not be chosen if it begins after the afternoon. If the waning is recent, the lunar day should extend into the evening for the rite to be properly observed. If a lunar day is greatly increased and overlaps with the previous day, such days should be avoided for sacred rites. Similarly, when the increase is recent, days that are joined with the previous should also be abandoned. Should the new moon day extend over two middays, there are further specific guidelines to follow. The procedure for the anvādhāna ritual, particularly on festival days, is prescribed in detail. On such days, the first three lunar days (tithis) are to be taken in quarter portions each, ensuring the correct observance. There are two midday periods, as well as the new moon and full moon days, which are significant for ritual timing. The prescribed time for observance is either on the following day or immediately, depending on when the tithi expires. When the tithi ends, the observance may be performed either immediately or on the next day, as appropriate. If the tenth tithi coincides with another, the merit earned spans three births, signifying its great spiritual potency. If the twelfth tithi occurs on the thirteenth day, it is considered superior. Should the thirteenth tithi fall at the end of the night, a specific decision regarding its observance will be explained. Householders and ascetics have different aims: householders seek accomplishment in the world, while ascetics strive for liberation. Even if the tenth tithi is mixed with another, one should fast on the eleventh tithi. For householders, the previously mentioned rule applies, while ascetics are to remember the latter guideline. When a day ends, only the second tithi is prescribed for all practitioners. Even if it is not mixed, the twelfth tithi is prohibited if it follows immediately after. The merit of the twelfth tithi is then obtained by breaking the fast on the thirteenth day. The twelfth tithi may occur on the thirteenth day or not, and if the later tithi is to be chosen, it should only be done if it is not weak or diminished. If the twelfth tithi occurs on the thirteenth day, the question arises as to how it should be observed. Some, out of devotion, maintain that only the second tithi should be fasted. Others observe both the twelfth and thirteenth days in a similar manner. There are also those who advocate for observing the earlier day, but that opinion is not deemed appropriate. Thus, the scriptures lay out these detailed and sacred guidelines, ensuring that each observance is performed at the most auspicious and spiritually potent times.