One of the most challenging questions in philosophy and theology is this: How can an all-loving, all-powerful God allow evil and suffering? The Western model — in which a soul lives one life, followed by eternal reward or punishment — leaves this question largely unanswered.

The Vedic perspective offers a profoundly different — and satisfying — answer through the twin principles of karma and rebirth.

The Law of Karma

Karma is the Sanskrit word for "action," but it also refers to the law of action and reaction that governs all living beings across many lifetimes. Suffering in this life is not random, nor is it a sign of God's indifference. It is the result of actions performed in previous lives, now bearing their fruit.

This understanding does not encourage fatalism — it encourages responsibility. If we are the authors of our own suffering through past actions, we are also the authors of our liberation through present choices.

The Vedic Answer

The Bhagavad-gita, spoken by Lord Krishna to Arjuna, cuts through this confusion with perfect clarity:

"Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear."

"For the soul there is neither birth nor death at any time. He has not come into being, does not come into being, and will not come into being. He is unborn, eternal, ever-existing and primeval."

The Solution: Bhakti Yoga

The ultimate solution to karma — and to suffering — is not merely good action, but loving surrender to Lord Krishna. When we act in devotion, dedicating all our actions to the Supreme, we transcend the cycle of karma entirely and move toward liberation (moksha) and pure spiritual joy.

ISKCON invites everyone — regardless of background — to explore these teachings through the Bhagavad-gita As It Is by Srila Prabhupada, available at our temple and book distribution points. Hare Krishna!