Destiny in Hindu philosophy is not fixed or unchangeable. The Bhagavad Gita and the Mahabharata teach that while some situations arise from past actions, every individual has the agency or purushartha, to make decisions and choices in the present.
Astrology and Vedic thought inform us that the planets and stars can create the right conditions for certain events in life to occur, but they do not take away our agency and attitude to create our path. One example is in the Mahabharata, Arjuna’s hesitation to fight, stemming from his moral conflict, highlights the interplay of fate and free will. In this situation, even though fate is determinant, Arjun’s actions affected the future.
Karma is at the heart of this understanding. Our present moment is shaped by past actions. But what happens next is open, what you decide to do next can change what comes next. Even if we are faced with challenges which may feel destined, we are encouraged to act with self-awareness and courage, knowing that the choices we make today shape our future.
The balance between destiny and free will is one of the key points in Hindu thought that, while we may not always control an event, we have the freedom to always choose and reach towards a better tomorrow.
If you want to learn more about these ideas in a fun and simple way, check out these books by Avinash Agarwal from Disha Publication:
Bhagavad Gita: With Engaging Stories – This book is divided into short chapters and interesting anecdotes, making it easy for students to understand the principles of the soul and karma.
Ramayana: For Young Minds – A narrative-based presentation of life values and ideals that resonates with readers of all ages.
Vedas and Upanishads: For Students – Complex ideas are presented through simple stories, maintaining both depth and interest.
Mahabharata: The Epic Retold – A timeless saga of duty, destiny, and dharma, narrated in a simplified form. It introduces students to the great Kurukshetra war, the dilemmas of characters, and the eternal lessons of righteousness.
Through these books, we not only return to the path of knowledge but also revive our cultural consciousness.
Now is not just the time to move forward – but also to return to our roots.👉 Explore books by author Avinash Agrawal
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