Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Gita reflection Ch 18 verses 59 & 60

24th December 2024


The feeling of independence that we all experience stems from our strong belief that we can determine the course of our lives. Many of the decisions we make significantly impact our lives. 

However, the actions from our past lives influence our current situations, which we cannot avoid. Lord Krishna warns Arjuna, saying, "If you believe you should not fight because of your ego, your determination will be futile. Nature will compel you!"

Does this mean we have no choice but to accept what is destined? We often mistakenly view destiny as a force that moves us from one situation to another without any choice. 

This misconception is not accurate. We have the ability to choose how to respond to unavoidable situations that are beyond our control. In ancient times, individuals were expected to fulfill their duties according to their societal class. Today, we must recognize that our inclinations arise from the qualities of Nature: Sattvic, Rajasic, or Tamasic.

We always have the choice to consciously respond to situations in a Sattvic manner. This choice represents our free will, which is separate from the circumstances we face.


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