Uprooting Sins

The discussion between Parikshit and Sage Suka in the

Bhagavata Purana on how the force of sin can be expiated by ritualistic karma also known as prayaschitta karma brings to the fore many interesting issues in this regard, pointed out

Sri Kesava Dikshitar in a discourse.

Parikshit wonders about the efficacy of such expiatory

karmas since people continue to commit the same sins in

spite of themselves. The analogy of the elephant that throws

up mud on itself even after it has been washed and bathed is

quoted to show how it is difficult to eradicate habits that are

ingrained in each one. Suka says that ignorance is the source of all karma including acts of expiation. Expiation can certainly wash off the effects of a particular karma but not the

tendency to commit the acts again as long as one remains ignorant of one’s self.

By practising austerities, cultivating virtues such as kindness,

truth and compassion, and engaging in disciplines like

meditation and worship, a man of righteousness and faith

can overcome even great sins committed by thought word

and deed.

The comparison of a forest fire that can easily destroy all

the reeds in a trice is pertinent here since it also implies that

the vasanas are not eradicated in toto just as the roots of

reeds can sprout again with the advent of rains. So Suka refers to the more appropriate illustration of the sun that removes the mist totally without any trace to show

that the practice of devotion to the Lord as most efficacious

in uprooting evil tendencies.

Krishna’s advice also focuses on the urgent need for each

one to unravel the mystery surrounding one’s existence.

This exercise alone can lead to an understanding of the purpose of one’s life and of what is eternal and permanent and turn one’s mind to remain devoted to God at all times.