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Aurobindo's Integral Yoga is a spiritual philosophy that seeks to integrate the teachings of Eastern spirituality with the concept of evolution. In this philosophy, the concept of karma holds a significant place. Karma, in Integral Yoga, is viewed as a fundamental law of nature that governs the evolution of the individual and the universe.
According to Aurobindo, karma is not just a system of reward and punishment, but rather a law of cause and effect that operates on all levels of existence. This means that every action, thought, and intention has a corresponding effect, and these effects shape our future experiences and circumstances. In other words, our present life is the result of our past actions, and our future is determined by our present actions.
However, Aurobindo's understanding of karma goes beyond the traditional concept of cause and effect. He believes that karma is not just limited to this lifetime but also extends to past and future lives. This concept is known as the law of reincarnation, where the soul takes birth in different bodies to fulfill its evolutionary journey.
Moreover, Aurobindo's Integral Yoga also emphasizes the role of consciousness in shaping our karma. He believes that our thoughts, emotions, and actions are all influenced by our level of consciousness. Therefore, by raising our consciousness, we can break free from the cycle of karma and create a new destiny for ourselves.
In Integral Yoga, the ultimate goal is not to escape from karma but to transcend it. Aurobindo teaches that through spiritual practices like meditation, selfless service, and surrender to a higher power, one can purify their karma and ultimately transcend it. By doing so, one can attain a state of liberation or moksha, where they are free from the limitations of karma and can live in a state of pure consciousness.
In conclusion, Aurobindo's Integral Yoga views karma as a fundamental law of nature that governs our evolution. It is not just limited to this lifetime but extends to past and future lives. However, through spiritual practices and raising our consciousness, we can transcend the limitations of karma and attain a state of liberation. This understanding of karma in Integral Yoga provides a deeper and more holistic perspective on this concept and its role in our spiritual journey.