Can our past karma force us into wrongdoing – then how do we have free will?
Question: If our past karma can impel us toward certain actions—like becoming attracted to or entangled in relationships—then how do we truly have free will?
Response:
My understanding is that karma manifests in waves of varying intensity, both externally and internally. Life in the material world is never uniformly easy or difficult—some phases test us severely, while others are more manageable.
External vs. Internal Reactions of Karma
Just as external karma can reduce us to powerlessness (e.g., an accident leaving someone bedridden or comatose), internal karma can also overwhelm us with urges so strong that resistance feels nearly impossible.
Krishna advises us to tolerate heat and cold, but tolerance has limits. At 25°C, heat is bearable; at 55°C, it becomes unbearable. Similarly, some urges arise mildly, while others feel like an unstoppable force. When the inner tempest rages, resisting may seem beyond our capacity.
Do We Have Free Will in Such Moments?
In principle, free will is inherent to the soul. But in practice, its expression depends on the condition of the body and mind. A comatose person theoretically has free will, but practically, they cannot exercise it. Likewise, when past karma erupts with overwhelming intensity, our willpower may be temporarily paralyzed.
Yet, just as extreme weather eventually passes, so too do the fiercest karmic storms. Our duty is to endure, seek Krishna’s help, and hold on until the turbulence subsides.
Two Protective Factors
- Spiritual Practices – Like warm clothing in winter, they offer some insulation against karmic onslaughts.
- Supportive Relationships – Genuine spiritual association can provide strength when our own falters.
But even these have limits. If external conditions grow too extreme (e.g., 60°C heat), no preparation may suffice. Similarly, some karmic waves may temporarily overpower us.
Free Will vs. Freedom vs. Willpower
- Free Will – The soul’s eternal capacity to choose.
- Freedom – The external ability to act on those choices (limited by circumstances, like a prisoner in jail).
- Willpower – The mental strength to persist in our choices despite opposition (weakened by past conditioning).
While past karma may restrict our freedom or willpower, the soul’s free will remains intact. Over time, as karmic reactions subside, our capacity to exercise it fully returns.
Conclusion
Yes, we have free will—but its expression fluctuates with the tides of karma. When urges feel unbearable, we weather the storm as best we can, leaning on spiritual practice and divine grace. The scars may linger, but they need not define us forever. Krishna’s mercy ensures that no karmic night lasts eternally; dawn will break.