Prarabdha karma

Definition

Prarabdha karma refers to the portion of one's past actions that have begun to yield results in the present life. It represents the karma that has already been set into motion and is responsible for the current experiences and circumstances of an individual. This concept plays a vital role in understanding the cycle of karma and samsara, as it connects past actions with present conditions and future experiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prarabdha karma specifically relates to actions from past lives that are currently unfolding, shaping one’s present reality.
2. It is believed that prarabdha karma cannot be changed or avoided, as it is already in motion and must be experienced.
3. The experiences resulting from prarabdha karma can manifest as both positive and negative circumstances, impacting one's life journey.
4. In contrast to sanchita karma, which encompasses all accumulated karma, prarabdha karma focuses only on what is presently active.
5. Understanding prarabdha karma helps individuals accept their current situations as outcomes of their past actions, promoting personal growth and learning.

Review Questions

• How does prarabdha karma influence an individual's current life experiences?
  • Prarabdha karma influences an individual's current life experiences by determining the situations and circumstances they face based on past actions. It includes those karmic effects that are actively manifesting in the present, shaping everything from personal relationships to life challenges. By recognizing prarabdha karma, one can better understand how past deeds have led to their current state of being.
• Compare and contrast prarabdha karma with sanchita karma, highlighting their significance in the broader context of karmic philosophy.
  • Prarabdha karma differs from sanchita karma in that prarabdha refers specifically to the portion of accumulated actions that are currently yielding results, while sanchita encompasses all past actions that have not yet manifested. Both are integral to understanding karmic philosophy as they explain how past deeds impact present realities and future lives. This distinction illustrates how individuals navigate their spiritual journeys through both experienced and unexperienced karmic effects.
• Evaluate how understanding prarabdha karma can lead to a deeper acceptance of life's challenges and promote spiritual growth.
  • Understanding prarabdha karma encourages individuals to accept life's challenges as necessary experiences shaped by their past actions. This acceptance fosters a mindset that views difficulties not as mere misfortunes but as opportunities for learning and growth. By recognizing the connection between past deeds and present circumstances, individuals can cultivate resilience and spiritual insight, ultimately enhancing their journey towards enlightenment and self-awareness.

Related terms

Samsara:

Samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, emphasizing the continuous flow of existence influenced by karma.

Karma:

Karma refers to the law of cause and effect where every action has corresponding consequences that affect one's future lives.

Sanchita karma: Sanchita karma is the accumulated karma from all past lives that remains unexperienced, which can influence future births and experiences.