Karma and Destiny

Ramana Maharshi taught that karma and destiny are real, but they affect only the body and mind, not the Self. The Self is beyond karma and destiny.

Ramana Maharshi acknowledged that karma and destiny are real and affect the body and mind. However, he taught that the Self is beyond karma and destiny. The Self is eternal and unchanging, unaffected by the actions of the body and mind.

When one identifies with the body and mind, one is subject to karma and destiny. But when one realizes the Self, one is free from karma and destiny. The Self is the witness of all actions, but is not affected by them.

The practice of self-inquiry leads to the realization of the Self, which is beyond karma and destiny. When one is established in the Self, one is free from the bondage of karma, even though the body and mind may continue to experience the results of past actions.