When facing any challenge should we confront them or surrender to their unfoldment as consequence of our karmas?
In Jainism, challenges and difficulties in life are indeed understood as the results of our past karmas. However, Jain philosophy does not advocate passive surrender or fatalism. Instead, it teaches a balanced approach:
- Acceptance of Karma: Recognize that whatever happens is a result of past karmas. This understanding brings equanimity (samata) and prevents unnecessary anger, attachment, or aversion.
- Right Effort: Jainism emphasizes purushartha (self-effort). While accepting the fruits of past karma, you are encouraged to make sincere and ethical efforts to overcome challenges. Acting with right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (the three jewels—Ratnatraya) is essential.
- Ahimsa and Self-Discipline: Any action you take should be in accordance with principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truth, and other vows (vratas). Facing challenges with compassion and self-restraint helps purify karma and prevents new negative karma.
- Detachment: While making efforts, maintain an attitude of detachment (vairagya). Do your best, but do not be overly attached to the outcomes, as they are ultimately governed by karma.
Summary: Jainism teaches neither blind confrontation nor total surrender. Accept challenges as consequences of past karma, but make righteous and nonviolent efforts to overcome them. This balanced approach leads to spiritual growth and reduces the bondage of karma.