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What lessons does Mahabharata teach about fate and free will?

Shemar Maudling

The Indian epic Mahabharata is a tale of friendship, love, war, and politics. It is one of the most significant works of literature in the Sanskrit language and among the ancient epics of the world. Mahabharata portrays a society caught between fate and free will. Throughout the story, the characters struggle with the balance between the two concepts, demonstrating the weight of destiny and power of choice.

One of the primary lessons that Mahabharata teaches about fate and free will is that although destiny is predetermined, human choices have a significant impact on how events unfold. In other words, our actions contribute to the outcome of our future. It is an essential realization to understand that the decisions we make have consequences, good or bad, and can alter the path laid out for us.

The story teaches us that even when fate is not on our side, we still have the power of free will. When faced with difficult decisions, we must take responsibility for our choices. For instance, when Arjuna is hesitant to fight his teacher, Lord Krishna advises him to do his duty as a warrior, to follow his dharma. Mahabharata also highlights the importance of our intentions. If our actions are pure, even if the outcome is not what we expected, our deeds will still be rewarded.

Another important lesson is that we should not be too attached to the outcome. Mahabharata teaches that we should focus on our actions rather than being overly concerned about the consequences. The story also portrays the idea of karma, which emphasizes that our past actions dictate our current circumstances. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of our actions and act responsibly.

Mahabharata is a tale of many lessons, and one of the most important is that Fate and Free Will hold a delicate balance. While fate cannot be altered, our free will, intent, and actions can shape our destiny. It teaches us that while it is easy to blame fate or external circumstances, it is ultimately up to us to decide how we live our lives. By making responsible choices, focusing on our actions, and letting go of our attachment to the outcome, we can live in a harmonious balance.

In conclusion, Mahabharata teaches us that fate and free will give life meaning, and every decision plays a part in constructing our destiny. We must accept that fate, past deeds, and karmic influences are beyond our control. At the same time, we must acknowledge the power of our choices and intentions as they can shift the course of our lives in significant ways. Let us all strive to make better choices and live our lives to the fullest, knowing that we are the architects of our fate.