Shastra is a Sanskrit word used to denote education/knowledge in a general sense. The word is generally used as a suffix in the context of technical or specialised knowledge in a defined area of practice. For example, Astra shastra means, knowledge about "Handling of weapons", Astra means weapons, and Shastra is their knowledge.
Extending this meaning, the shastra is commonly used to mean a treatise or text written in explanation of some idea, especially in matters involving religion. In Buddhism, a shastra is often a commentary written at a later date to explain an earlier scripture or sutra.
Therefore, everyone is curious to know as to what is Vaastu Shastra, and what principles and methods regarding the construction of buildings have been given by the ancient saints and seers on the basis of their experience and commands in the divine scriptures.
With the help of Vaastu Shastra and Shilpashastra, knowledge about the better and auspicious way of construction of a house, the positions and direction of gates, doors and rooms, etc. in it, is gained so that a house may be built which will provide all round prosperity and happiness to the inmates.
The ancient text of Vastu Shastra did mention various Gods from Hindu mythology fixing their locations on the site and prescribing the offerings to be made to them, but that also seems to have been a ploy created by ancient scientists to convince the people to accept the Vastu norms.
Vaastu is an ancient Indian science of architecture and buildings which helps in making a congenial setting or a place to live and work in a most scientific way taking advantage of the benefits bestowed by nature, its elements and energy fields for enhanced wealth, health, prosperity and happiness.
Vastu Shastra unifies the science, art, astronomy and astrology, it can also be said as an ancient mystic science for designing and building.
Vaastu Shastra is creating a congenial settings or a place to live or work, in most scientific way taking advantages of the benefits bestowed by the five elements called "Paanchbhootas" of the nature thereby paving the way for enhanced health, wealth, prosperity and happiness in an enlightened environment.