Baraka Amiri Vedic birth chart profile
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Virgo Lagna

Baraka Amiri

October 7, 1934 · Newark, New Jersey
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Moon Sign
Virgo
Uttara Phalguni
Sun Sign
Virgo
Hasta
Ascendant
Virgo
Hasta
Nakshatra
Uttara Phalguni
Birth Star
Current Dasha · Ketu / Rahu / Rahu · Apr 2026 – Jun 2026
PoliticsWritersMilitaryTeacherEntertain/MusicHumanities+Social SciencesPoetActor
Biography

Who is Baraka Amiri?

American playright and Separatist Black leader, he was born to a social worker mom and a postal worker dad. He attended Rutgers University but left without graduation. He changed his name to LeRoi Jones in 1952. Two years later, in 1954 he enlisted in the Army but was dishonorably discharged after getting into an altercation with a superior officer. He moved to Greenwich Village where he became involved with jazz musicians and writers; in 1958 he founded Totem Press which published some of the Beat Generation writers like Jack Kerouac. That year he married Hettie Cohen. The couple jointly edited Yugen literary magazine until 1963. A trip to Cuba evoked the activist in him and he began writing controversial political and social commentary and plays. In 1967 he adopted the African name Imamu Ameer Baraka, which he later changed to Amiri Baraka. At around this time he divorced Hetty and left her and their two children. In 1966 he remarried, this time to a woman who took the name of Amina Baraka. A year later he began teaching. With his controversial anti-Semitic views which he later denounced, he was active in the Black Muslim movement, embracing Islam and calling for an end to the oppression of Black people. He continued writing and in 1989 won an American Book Award and a Langston Hughes Award. He has also appeared in several films. His 31-year-old daughter was murdered in 2003 in New Jersey. Link to Wikipedia biography
Latest Info

Latest Updates

Update at: Sep 6, 2026

Baraka Amiri (Amiri Baraka) – Public Profile

Birth name: LeRoi Jones (early career); later publicly known as Amiri Baraka (also associated with the honorific Imamu Amiri Baraka).

Born: October 7, 1934, Newark, New Jersey, United States.

Died: January 9, 2014, Newark, New Jersey, United States.

Baraka Amiri is a foundational figure in American poetry and drama. He was a central architect of the Black Arts Movement in the 1960s, shaping a generation of writers with a blend of political engagement, cultural critique, and stylistic innovation.

News and legacy

Following his death in 2014, major outlets published obituaries and retrospective essays highlighting his influence on poetry, drama, and political discourse. Scholars continue to reassess his work and its role in American literature and Black liberation movements. Public discussions often address both his innovative contributions and the controversies surrounding his views and rhetoric during different periods of his career.

Notable works

  • Blues People: Negro Music in White America
  • Dutchman (play)
  • Preface to a Twenty-Volume Suicide Note
  • Black Art (poem)

Public persona, name changes, and influence

Originating as LeRoi Jones, he adopted Amiri Baraka as his public name and became a leading voice in Black cultural and political discourse. His work spans poetry, drama, essays, and political commentary, influencing generations of writers and activists who explore Race, identity, and social justice in American society.

Public profiles and online presence

There are no verified official social media accounts maintained by Baraka. Public engagement is primarily through published works, library and archival collections, university courses, and scholarly articles. Some institutions host digital archives and interviews related to his life and writings.

Recent projects and ongoing study

There are no new works published by Baraka after his death in 2014. His legacy continues through posthumous editions, scholarly analyses, and curated anthologies that gather his poetry, drama, and essays for ongoing study in academic and literary communities.

Vedic Planet Analysis

Astrologer Reviewed

Baraka Amiri's planet-by-planet horoscope reading. Select a planet below to read its detailed Vedic interpretation.

Ascendant1st

Ascendant Represents AS

The Ascendant (Lagna) in Vedic astrology represents the self, physical body, personality, and how we interact with the world. It defines our core identity, health, and the first impression we make on others. The sign rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth becomes the Ascendant, influencing our temperament and approach to life. Its ruler significantly shapes how we express ourselves and respond to our environment.
◈ Astrologer Reviewed

Baraka Amiri birth chart analysis for Ascendant

In Vedic astrology, the ascendant or "lagna" is a critical point that sets the stage for an individual's life path and personality traits. When the natal lagna is in the Virgo sign, it suggests a personality that is analytical, detail-oriented, and practical. Virgo is an earth sign ruled by Mercury, which imbues the individual with a methodical approach to life, a penchant for organization, and a strong desire for perfection. People with Virgo rising tend to be health-conscious, discerning, and often possess a critical eye, both for themselves and others. The presence of the lagna in the Hasta nakshatra, which spans from 10°00' to 23°20' in Virgo, further refines these characteristics. Hasta is symbolized by an open hand and is ruled by the Moon, which adds a layer of creativity, dexterity, and adaptability to the Virgo traits. Individuals with their lagna in Hasta are often skilled in crafts or arts and are known for their ability to work resourcefully. They tend to be nurturing and have a strong desire to help others, often manifesting in professions related to healing or service. With the lagna lord Mercury placed in the 2nd house in Libra and in the Swati nakshatra, we see a significant emphasis on communication, relationships, and financial matters. The 2nd house pertains to wealth, values, speech, and family. Mercury in Libra enhances diplomacy, social skills, and a balanced approach to interactions. It indicates a natural talent for negotiation and a love for harmony in relationships. Swati nakshatra, ruled by Rahu, offers independence and a desire for freedom, suggesting that the individual may seek financial autonomy and possess a unique communication style. This combination can lead to success in professions related to law, media, or any field requiring negotiation and balance. Overall, this astrological setup suggests a person who is analytical and detail-oriented, with a strong sense of justice and communication skills that can be leveraged in financially rewarding ways. The blend of Virgo's practicality and Libra's harmony creates a well-rounded individual capable of achieving balance in their personal and professional life.

Which dasha is Baraka Amiri running now?

VIMSHOTTARI

Baraka Amiri is currently in the Ketu mahadasha, running from Apr 7, 2026 to Jun 4, 2026.

PREVIOUSMar 25, 2026 - Apr 7, 2026
Ketu / Mars / Moon
NOWApr 7, 2026 - Jun 4, 2026
Ketu / Rahu / Rahu
NEXTJun 4, 2026 - Jul 24, 2026
Ketu / Rahu / Jupiter

What do Baraka Amiri's numerology numbers say?

Baraka Amiri's core numbers are Life Path 7, Destiny 9, Soul Urge 6, Personality 3, Kabbalah Number 3, Birth 7.

Life Path
7

Chaldean Life Path 7 is Ketu-like—analysis, mystery, and spiritual depth. It indicates learning through research, introspection, and inner truth.

Destiny
9

Chaldean Destiny 9 indicates humanitarian expression and completion energy. It supports service, mentoring, and influence through compassion and higher ideals.

Soul Urge
6

Chaldean Soul 6 desires love, belonging, and responsibility. It seeks harmony at home and fulfillment through care and service.

Personality
3

Chaldean Personality 3 appears expressive, social, and creative. Others often see charm, optimism, and communication skills.

Kabbalah Number
3

Kabbalah Number 3 reflects an inner spiritual code of expression and creativity. It supports communication, inspiration, and joyful manifestation.

Birth
7

Explore Birth Number 7 in Vedic astrology: discover personality traits, destiny, career inclinations, relationships, and remedies to balance karmic energy.

Life Events & Planetary Transits

Key events mapped against the active Dasha and planetary transits at the time.

1958
Career
Published/ Exhibited/ Released 1958 (established Totem Press)
2003
Death
Death of Child 2003
?

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this profile's Vedic astrology, birth chart, and numerology — answered by our astrologers.

Which zodiac sign does Baraka Amiri belong to in Western astrology?

Baraka Amiri is a Libra in Western tropical astrology, born on October 7, 1934. Libra is ruled by Venus and governs art, justice, and communication — all deeply resonant with Amiri's celebrated career as a poet, playwright, and political activist. This Libra energy gave him a sharp aesthetic sensibility and a lifelong drive to challenge social imbalances through the power of words and creative expression.

What does Baraka Amiri's Virgo ascendant reveal about his personality?

Baraka Amiri carries a Virgo ascendant, which shapes his outward presence as analytical, precise, and deeply critical of the world around him. Virgo rising individuals are known for their intellectual rigor and attention to detail — qualities that defined Amiri's razor-sharp political writing and his demanding standards as a teacher and journalist. This ascendant also reinforced his dedication to social service and humanitarian causes throughout his life.

How do the astrological placements in Baraka Amiri's birth chart explain his extraordinary rise as a writer and activist?

Baraka Amiri's chart shows a remarkable triple alignment of Virgo in his Vedic sun, moon, and ascendant, intensifying his intellect, communication skills, and analytical depth. This concentration in Virgo, a sign associated with mastery of craft and service, strongly supported his emergence as a pioneering poet and political voice. Such placements create individuals driven to refine their art obsessively and use language as a tool for social transformation.

Where and when was Baraka Amiri born?

Baraka Amiri was born on October 7, 1934, in Newark, United States. Newark's urban landscape and its complex social history deeply influenced his artistic worldview. Astrologically, being born under a Libra sun with Virgo rising placed him at the intersection of aesthetic brilliance and critical thought — a fitting combination for someone who would go on to reshape American poetry and Black cultural identity.

How does numerology favour Baraka Amiri through his lucky associations?

Baraka Amiri's birth date of October 7, 1934 carries the energy of the number 7 prominently, a number long associated with deep wisdom, spiritual inquiry, and intellectual mastery. In numerology, those aligned with 7 are naturally drawn to research, writing, and uncovering hidden truths — all hallmarks of Amiri's career as a poet, essayist, and cultural critic. The number 7 favours solitary creative work and profound philosophical expression.

What does Baraka Amiri's Life Path number 7 reveal about his deeper purpose?

Baraka Amiri's Life Path number is 7, which in numerology represents the seeker of truth, the philosopher, and the lone visionary. Life Path 7 individuals are compelled to question established systems and pursue knowledge beyond the surface — perfectly mirroring Amiri's identity as a provocative writer, political thinker, and teacher. This number also speaks to periods of deep inner reflection, which likely fuelled the raw emotional intensity found throughout his celebrated body of work.

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