The Law of Karma

4. Planetary karma

Each individual is subject to the effects of planetary karma. This is particularly true in terms of natural catastrophes. Somebody dying in an earthquake or in a volcano eruption does not necessarily die because of the effects of a previous life. Natural phenomena are important processes for the planet. A tempest oxides the waters, and volcanic eruptions will pour out new minerals and substances into nature. There are, of course, also global effects created by man such as the ever-increasing environmental pollution. People dying in consequence hereof are also subject to the effects of human ignorance and greed.

We must remember that dying is not just a tragedy from a soul's point of view. There is no death. Only life incarnating again and again. People dying from collective effects will soon be given a new chance of growing awareness. Environmental consequences are of course serious signals to everyone to do something about the ruthless exploitation of our natural resources. It is certainly no wonder that so many people must suffer when we do not treat our environment better.

Karma as a necessity for the growth of love

As will appear from the above, there are many things, primary as well as secondary, influencing the life of an individual. The belief that each individual is the lord and master of his own destiny is true and false at the same time. No human being can evolve without help from his brothers and sisters and sharing his destiny with them. On the other hand it is also up to each individual to free himself from the consequences of problems created by he himself. This is done, first and foremost, by taking responsibility for his own life and development. Or we could say that he finishes with personal egoism. Later when we are more mature, we shall evolve by engaging ourselves in the problems of society. He who does not want to take part in these problems or share the collective burdens will exclude himself from the love God sends into the world of mankind. He who is self-sufficient will experience such situations in which he will be denied help. The Law of Karma pushes each individual, without mercy, to the narrow path of love.

We often hear that the Law of Karma is unjust and merciless because it justifies crimes and poverty. They who are victims of injustice have brought it on themselves, and this also applies to the poor. But as was mentioned above, we do realise that there are many causes for human suffering - collectively and individually.

Basically, it is not at all interesting to know whether suffering has arisen for this or that reason as we are all obliged to relieve what suffering we may come across. We must replace the question of guilt with that of responsibility. We are all responsible for developing our divine potential and we do so by expressing this quality and taking actively part in society.

They say that we provoke in others what is dormant in ourselves. He who hates will meet hatred. He who loves will meet love. This is a truth ruling the Law of Karma - and yet it is more complicated than that.