Is a person's fate determined by planets in astrology or karma?

Karma, meaning the deeds or actions performed by an individual, aligns closely with Newton’s third law of motion: Every action has an equal and opposite reaction. This principle suggests that the actions we take invariably come back to us in some form. Our ancestors understood this well, urging us to perform good deeds. The proverb, “We reap what we sow,” encapsulates this age-old wisdom: our actions sow the seeds of our future, and the results of those actions are what we call fate.

But where do planets and astrology fit into this picture? Is fate truly governed by celestial bodies? The answer lies in understanding their connection to karma. Astrology, based on the positions of planets at the time of our birth, serves as an indication of our karmic patterns and the results that are likely to manifest. Planets like Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu are often referred to as "karmic planets" because their unfavorable placements in a horoscope are seen as indicators of unresolved karmic debts. Their influence is not inherently negative; rather, they reflect the outcomes of past actions—both good and bad.

The Manifestation of Karma Across Lifetimes

A natural question arises: why do we experience the results of past-life actions in our current lives? Why must they be reflected in something as intricate as a horoscope? The answer lies in the nature of karma as an ongoing account. Just as circumstances need to align for certain seeds to sprout, the results of past actions manifest when conditions are conducive, which may span across lifetimes.

However, it is important to recognize that horoscopes and planetary calculations are not prerequisites for karma to unfold. Karma operates independently, irrespective of whether we consult astrology. The planets, at most, act as markers or indicators of the karmic tendencies we carry. They do not dictate our destiny; they merely reflect it.

The Role of Consciousness in Shaping Karma

At the heart of karma is human consciousness. Our thoughts are the seeds from which actions arise. Religious and spiritual teachings often emphasize virtues like non-violence, honesty, and self-restraint. While many of us practice these principles outwardly, the real challenge lies in adhering to them mentally. Negative thoughts, such as harboring resentment or wishing ill upon others, shape our consciousness. These thoughts often lead to outward negative actions, perpetuating the cycle of karma.

This karmic wheel, with its intricate algorithms, is a testament to the divine order of the universe. However, it is not unbreakable. The key to transcending this cycle lies in controlling our thoughts. When we master our inner world, we naturally gain control over our actions, and by extension, the outcomes they produce.

Becoming the Architect of Your Own Destiny

By mastering our thoughts and actions, we become the architects of our own fate. We are no longer bound by the positions of planets or the interpretations of horoscopes. Instead, we take charge of our destiny. The planets, while influential, are not our masters. They are merely guides, showing us where we might focus our efforts to overcome karmic challenges.

In the end, fate is not an external force imposed upon us by celestial bodies. It is the result of our actions, shaped by our thoughts and consciousness. By aligning our thoughts with positivity and virtue, we can break free from the chains of karma and design a destiny of our own making.