Varma is a certified life coach whose mission is to help others become the best versions of themselves. His spiritual journey has led him to the understanding that lasting happiness cannot be attained from material pursuits but true fulfilment can only be found within.
In this fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the chaos and lose sight of the bigger picture. But what if I told you that every choice you make has a ripple effect on your future? That's where the concept of karma comes in. Karma, a term rooted in Eastern philosophy, is the belief that our actions have consequences that can affect us in this life and the next. By becoming more karma-conscious and making positive choices, you can steer your destiny in a more favorable direction.
What is karma?
Karma, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "action" or "deed," is the universal law of cause and effect. It suggests that every action we take, whether good or bad, will come back to us in some form or another. This could be in this lifetime or the next, depending on your beliefs. In essence, karma is like a cosmic balance sheet that keeps track of all your deeds.
How does karma work?
Karma operates on the principle of "as you sow, so shall you reap." This means that the energy you put out into the world will eventually find its way back to you. For example, if you treat yourself and others with kindness and compassion, you are more likely to receive the same treatment in return. Conversely, if you sow seeds of negativity and harm, you can expect to face similar challenges in the future.
The three types of karma
In Hindu philosophy, there are three main types of karma: Sanchita (accumulated karma), Prarabdha (karma that is currently manifesting), and Kriyamana (karma that is being created in the present moment). Each type of karma plays a role in shaping our experiences and influencing our future actions.
What is prarabdha karma?
Prarabdha karma refers to the portion of karma that is ripe for experiencing in this lifetime. It is the result of past actions, both positive and negative, that manifest in the form of circumstances and events that we encounter in the present. This karma is said to be unavoidable and must be lived out, for better or for worse, as part of our spiritual journey.
How does prarabdha karma influence us?
Prarabdha karma acts as a guiding force in our lives, leading us through various experiences and lessons that help us evolve spiritually. It can manifest in the form of challenges, obstacles, or blessings, depending on our past actions and intentions. This karma serves as a mirror, reflecting back to us the consequences of our choices and actions from previous lifetimes.
Can prarabdha karma be changed?
While prarabdha karma is said to be inevitable and must be endured, it is believed that our present actions and attitudes can reduce the negative effects of past karma and shape our future karma. By practicing virtues such as compassion, kindness, and selflessness, we can mitigate the effects of negative karma and create positive outcomes for ourselves and others. Ultimately, the law of karma teaches us that we have the power to influence our destiny through conscious choices and deeds.
The role of grace in karma
Grace is often seen as a gift from a higher power or divine source. It is the unmerited favor or blessing that is bestowed upon us, regardless of our actions. While karma operates on the principle of justice and retribution, grace operates on the principle of love and forgiveness. It is the force that transcends our karma and allows us to experience unconditional love and acceptance.
The story of Rishi Markandeya
In the ancient Hindu scriptures, the story of Rishi Markandeya serves as a powerful example of the intricate relationship between grace and karma. Markandeya was a devoted sage who, through his unwavering devotion and selfless actions, was able to transcend the limitations of karma and align himself with divine grace.
Mrikandu and Marudvati were a devoted couple who fervently worshipped Lord Shiva. Their joy was overshadowed by sorrow when they discovered that they were unable to conceive children. In their anguish, they sought the assistance of Lord Shiva, who appeared to them in a dream and presented them with a choice:
Shiva gave two options: “Do you desire to have a virtuous, wise, and pious son who will live up to sixteen years, or an evil-natured son who will live long?”
The sage Mrikandu did not hesitate over the choice; he did not want a son who was not noble. He begged only for the short-lived son of whom he could be proud. By his divine will, Lord Shiva granted the request of his devotee and departed.
As foretold by Lord Shiva, Mrikandu and Marudvati welcomed a child, Markandeya, who exhibited remarkable wisdom from an early age, dedicating much of his youth to meditation and the study of sacred texts.
According to destiny (prarabdha karma), the young boy was informed of his fate: he would meet his end on his eighteenth birthday. Undeterred by this foreboding prophecy, he intensified his devotion to Lord Shiva, earnestly seeking his blessings and guidance. On the day of his eighteenth birthday, while engaged in prayer at the temple of Lord Shiva, the god of death, Yama, appeared to claim him. Miraculously, Lord Shiva manifested before them, vanquished Yama, and bestowed upon Markandeya the gift of eternal life. This story can be related to the ever-popular death-defying mantra known as the Mrityunjaya Mantra which is often recited for health, longevity, and protection from illness and death.
The balance of karma and grace
The story of Rishi Markandeya highlights the delicate balance between karma, the law of cause and effect, and grace, the divine benevolence that transcends all limitations. While karma dictates that every action has a corresponding reaction, grace offers the possibility of redemption and liberation from the cycle of rebirth and death.
“While grace has the power to mitigate the effects of negative karma, it does not absolve us of our responsibilities. It is through our actions and intentions that we create new karmic imprints that shape our future experiences.”
Through his dedication and selflessness, Rishi Markandeya was able to purify his karma and align himself with divine grace. His unwavering faith and devotion allowed him to rise above the limitations of his past actions and connect with the eternal truth that lies beyond the material world.
How to create positive karma
If karma is the result of our actions, then it stands to reason that we have the power to create positive karma in our lives. By practicing kindness, compassion, and generosity, we can sow the seeds for a more positive future. Simple acts of kindness, such as helping a stranger in need or volunteering your time, can have a ripple effect that benefits not only yourself but others as well.
Now that we understand how karma works, we can start to see the importance of making conscious choices in our daily lives. By being mindful of our actions and their potential consequences, we can avoid creating negative karma that will come back to haunt us.
How to make karma-conscious choices
Practice mindfulness: Take a moment before acting to consider the potential impact of your decisions on yourself and others. This awareness can help you avoid impulsive actions that could lead to negative outcomes.
Choose positivity: Whenever possible, opt for actions that promote positivity, kindness, and compassion towards yourself and others. By spreading good energy, you are more likely to attract the same into your life.
Take responsibility: Acknowledge when you've made a mistake or hurt someone and take steps to make amends. Owning up to your actions is a crucial step in breaking negative karmic cycles.
Exercise self-reflection: Regularly examine your thoughts, words, and deeds to ensure they align with your values and beliefs. This self-awareness can help you make more intentional choices.
The ripple effect of karma
Just as a pebble creates ripples in a pond, our actions send waves of energy out into the world. These ripples can affect not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. By choosing to be karma-conscious, you can create a positive ripple effect that has the power to transform your reality. In conclusion, karma is not some mystical force controlled by fate but rather a reflection of the choices we make every day. By embracing the concept of karma-conscious choice, you can take control of your destiny and create a brighter future for yourself and those around you. Remember, the power is in your hands to shape the life you desire through mindful and positive actions.
If you've read my article, I'd love to hear your thoughts on what you found most helpful or thought-provoking. Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram or my website if you have any questions. Also, if you’d like some extra support, you are welcome to book a coaching call with me today!
Read more from Dr. Varma Brent Samodee
Dr. Varma Brent Samodee, Transformational Life Coach
Dr. Samodee is a certified life coach whose mission is to help others become the best versions of themselves. He views life as a journey of consciousness, where individual consciousness merges with the universal consciousness, akin to a drop of rain returning to the ocean, symbolizing the ultimate union of the self with the universe.
With a compassionate and lighthearted approach to spirituality, Dr. Samodee skillfully bridges the gap between the spiritual and material realms, empowering clients to achieve their goals and reclaim their inner power. He firmly believes that we are co-creators of our reality, and through conscious effort, we can shape our future.
