Answer

Jains do not believe in kismat as a fixed destiny created by God or controlled by fate.

In Jain Dharma, what people often call “kismat” is mainly understood through the law of karma.

Explanation

According to Jain philosophy:

• Every soul is responsible for its own actions.
• Good and bad karmas are bound to the soul through thoughts, words, and actions.
• These karmas give results in this life or future lives.
• No God or outside power decides a person’s fortune or suffering.

So if someone says, “It was my kismat,” Jain Dharma would explain it as the result of previously bound karma, not random fate.

However, Jainism also teaches that karma is not permanent. Through right faith, right knowledge, right conduct, self-control, tapasya, forgiveness, and spiritual effort, one can reduce, shed, and stop new karmas.

Spiritual Understanding

Jain Dharma emphasizes purusharth — personal effort.

This means:

• We may experience the results of past karma.
• But we are not helpless.
• Our present choices create our future.
• Spiritual effort can change the direction of the soul’s journey.

Takeaway

Jains do not believe in fixed “kismat.” They believe in karma and personal responsibility. Past karma may influence life, but present effort can purify the soul and lead toward liberation.