The concept of fate has intrigued humanity for centuries, and it has been the subject of much debate and contemplation. People have pondered where fate originates, who orchestrates it, and for what purpose. While there are various beliefs and perspectives on fate, it remains a topic that elicits a wide range of opinions. Some view fate as an immutable force, while others question its existence. Is fate a tangible reality, or is it a construct of human imagination? Is it a mere superstition, or can it be elucidated through scientific inquiry?

As previously discussed in Chapter 2, the pursuit of answers requires us to amass information from diverse sources and seek hidden clues that may shed light on the nature of fate. Employing a similar methodology, we will endeavor to gain insights into the concept of fate.

In the teachings of Buddhism and certain Eastern religions, fate is intertwined with the notion of karma—a natural law that governs cause and effect in a person’s life. According to this belief, all our actions, whether virtuous or wicked, compassionate or callous, in our past lives, naturally manifest in and influence our current existence. While this Buddhist perspective appears reasonable, it presents two notable weaknesses:

• Firstly, if there were no supreme power overseeing reincarnation, souls would be free to choose the families into which they are born. This could potentially result in situations where malevolent souls select affluent, powerful families, oppressing virtuous souls who find themselves in less fortunate circumstances. Consequently, the concept of karma in Buddhism could be perceived as ineffective and unjust, as it does not promote fairness.

• Secondly, Buddhism lacks the concept of a deity. In this worldview, humans are not guided by any divine being. Consequently, there is no entity responsible for creating souls. Instead, souls are deemed to emerge naturally at birth, implying that the soul is merely an abstraction of human reason and emotion, a product of nature. According to this perspective, when a human dies, everything ceases to exist. What individuals experience in this life is the consequence of choices and decisions made within the confines of their present existence, without intervention from a supernatural entity. Consequently, in the absence of a soul, reincarnation and karma become untenable concepts, rendering the reflection of past-life transgressions in one’s current life moot.

In contrast, Islamic belief ascribes great significance to fate in an individual’s life. According to Islam, human destiny is an integral part of God’s divine will. It is asserted that God predetermines the fate of each person before their birth, and this predestined fate remains unalterable throughout their lifetime. The concept of fate in Islam is challenged on two fronts:

• Firstly, if God is indeed a benevolent and wise supreme power, questions arise regarding why He would treat the souls He created in such an unequal manner. Some individuals lead lives filled with happiness, wealth, and success, while others endure a lifetime of poverty, misery, and unhappiness. Absent any additional context, this distribution of fortune appears fundamentally unjust.

• Secondly, why does God bestow upon humans a preordained fate while simultaneously denying them free will? If fate is immutable, is there a need for individuals to strive for success in life? If individuals engage in altruistic acts, how does God reward them when every aspect of their life has already been predetermined? In a world governed by unchangeable fate, is divine revelation and commandment necessary for human guidance?

Meanwhile, Christianity presents a rather vague depiction of the concept of fate. Many Christian adherents posit that God punishes all of humanity because of the transgressions of Adam and Eve, who ate the forbidden fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil—an idea commonly referred to as original sin. This perspective also encounters two significant challenges:

• Firstly, Christianity’s concept of original sin attributes all punishment to the actions of Adam and Eve, implying that God punishes all of humanity collectively, irrespective of their individual sins. This perspective presents God primarily as a punitive force, seemingly overlooking the positive aspects of life that God bestows upon humanity.

• Secondly, it appears irrational for God to continually punish all of humanity due to the sins of their forebears. Given that fairness is a paramount principle in God’s nature, the rationale behind such a punitive approach is questionable. This raises questions about divine justice and the equality of human souls.

Before delving further into the subject of fate, it is essential to examine the concept of God’s punishment from a religious perspective. It is crucial to recognize that God does not harbor fear, nor does He require protection of His reputation, as He is beyond reproach. Punishment is typically meted out due to fear, personal interests, or retribution for noncompliance with one’s wishes. However, when we contemplate God, we must acknowledge that He does not operate under such constraints. God’s status as the great creator precludes any necessity for His protection. Moreover, with the understanding that God is the creator of all things, we must also acknowledge that He has granted humanity free will. If this is the case, then God’s divine purpose is not to compel individuals to follow His will, make choices according to His desires, or obediently comply with His commands, lest they face punishment. Such an approach would contradict the very concept of free will that God has granted to humans.

In light of these considerations, it becomes apparent that humans possess the freedom to choose according to their own will. They can choose between good and evil, virtue and mischief, left and right, based on their own desires. In essence, God does not interfere with or prevent human choices; instead, He grants humanity the complete freedom to decide and act according to their own will. God neither punishes nor rewards individuals based on their choices, as the outcomes they experience in life are the consequences of their own past decisions. It is essential to recognize that everything that transpires in our lives is governed by the law of causality, not divine punishment. God neither punishes anyone, nor does He ever intend to do so.

After a comprehensive analysis of the perspectives on fate within Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam, it becomes evident that each of these major religions presents certain logical shortcomings. However, by amalgamating these viewpoints, discarding invalid elements, and preserving the valid aspects, we can arrive at clear, logical, and reasonable perspectives on fate:

  1. Original Sin and God’s Purpose: One perspective posits that God created fate for each person as a consequence of the original sin committed by the first humans on Earth. This viewpoint draws on the concept of original sin in Christianity.
  2. Karma and Reincarnation: Another viewpoint suggests that God determines human fate based on the deeds performed in previous lives. Every action, whether good or bad, in a previous life influences the present one through a system of cause and effect. Souls reincarnate to receive reflections of their past deeds, in alignment with the principles of karma and reincarnation found in Buddhism.
  3. Pre-Determined Fate: A third perspective is rooted in Islam, asserting that God sets and manages the fate of each human, which is unchangeable and predetermined based on deeds from past lives. The consequences of current actions will manifest in future lives.

To deepen our understanding of fate, we can examine a line from the Qur’an: “And you do not will except that Allah wills. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise” (SURAH AL – INSAN 30). Breaking this verse down, we find:

  • “And you do not will”: This part of the verse conveys that our lives are inevitably influenced by fate, suggesting that we are subject to the workings of karma.
  • “Except that Allah wills”: Here, God affirms His will without providing an explanation. Initially, when God creates a new soul, it possesses only consciousness and spirit, with empty subconscious and RPLI storage. Free will is granted in the first life, but human desires, ambition, selfishness, and cruelty led to suffering for others. To restore balance, God employs the law of cause and effect to arrange fate based on past deeds, aiming to punish sin and reward good deeds for human growth.
  • “Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise”: This part emphasizes that God’s imposition of fate is not for His amusement but is rooted in His profound knowledge and wisdom.

The origin and purpose of karma can be understood as follows: God establishes human fate primarily to uphold the supreme law of the universe and aid human evolution. Fate is not assigned to those with new souls; it becomes possible only after experiencing life. God arranges fate before a person’s birth, guided by the law of karma. Every activity in this life serves as criteria for the fate of the next life, making reincarnation and fate essential for human evolution.

To illustrate how God’s wisdom is manifest in the imposition of fate, consider these examples:

Example 1:

  • Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler, two infamous leaders, represent some of the world’s most heinous criminals. If allowed to reincarnate freely, they could pose grave threats due to their leadership skills and cruelty. However, their fate, reflecting their past deeds, ensures they face poverty, sickness, and failure, ultimately transforming their personalities.

Example 2:

  • Serial killers like Pedro Alonso Lopez, Andiu Chikatilo, and Anatoly Onoprienko committed atrocious crimes. Without fate, their reincarnations could spell disaster for society. Their assigned fate dictates disability, immobility, poverty, and misery, inhibiting them from acting on their cruelty. Karma’s fairness can change their wicked tendencies, nudging them toward goodness.

By examining these examples and the religious perspectives on fate, we gain insight into how God’s wisdom is reflected in the intricate workings of human destiny.

Example 3:

  • William HENRY “Bill” Gates III (born 1955) is the co-founder of Microsoft Software Corporation and a prominent figure in the global information technology revolution.
  • Jackie Chan (born 1954) is a Hong Kong-born actor, action choreographer, comedian, director, producer, martial artist, screenwriter, entrepreneur, singer, and stunt performer. His movies have been released in the USA and many countries worldwide.

While these two individuals work in different fields, both have dedicated themselves to making substantial contributions to our society. They diligently pursued wealth but, upon achieving success, chose not to hoard it for themselves. Instead, they generously donated most of their wealth to charitable causes, providing essential support to struggling families worldwide. Their charitable endeavors stem from genuine compassion rather than self-interest.

The world is replete with remarkable individuals, and we cannot possibly list them all in this book. Nevertheless, in the cases of the two individuals mentioned above, it is likely that God will bestow upon them a favorable fate in their next life, one filled with fortune, happiness, wealth, and success. This would seem fair and reasonable, given their ongoing acts of compassion in their present lives. It can be seen as an indirect way in which God aids other humans through their continued success and prosperity.

Typically, affluent individuals strive to amass even more wealth for personal enjoyment or to secure their children’s futures. They seldom share their riches with others, depleting their “blessing account” and neglecting good deeds for their next life. Only a rare few possess the compassionate hearts displayed by Bill Gates and Jackie Chan. Therefore, we can regard Bill Gates and Jackie Chan as highly evolved souls.

Example 4:

  • Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948) was the preeminent leader of Indian nationalism, leading India to independence in 1947. He served as an inspiration for movements promoting non-violence, civil rights, and freedom worldwide.
  • Ho Chi Minh (1890–1969) was a revolutionary activist and the leader of national liberation movements, serving as the president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam from 1945 to 1969.

In this book, we refrain from discussing the political viewpoints of Ho Chi Minh and Mahatma Gandhi. Instead, we focus on their lifestyles, morality, and dignity. Both individuals worked tirelessly and dedicated their lives to the independence, happiness, and development of their nations. Even after achieving success and respect, they continued to lead simple, frugal lives. Their primary desire was to witness their countries and people thrive in peace, prosperity, happiness, and freedom.

Given their outstanding accomplishments and exceptional virtues, it is likely that God will grant them favorable fates in their next lives. They may reincarnate in more developed countries, becoming leaders cherished and respected by many. This ongoing support from God helps these individuals achieve success and become influential leaders in other nations—an indirect way in which God assists the people of those countries.

The moral integrity and dignity displayed by Mahatma Gandhi and Ho Chi Minh leave a profound impression. Often, power and wealth can alter people’s behaviors. Initially, political activists aim to serve the people and earn respect. However, when they amass significant power and wealth, their lifestyles may change. Souls that have not undergone sufficient evolution may lack the exceptional qualities exhibited by Mahatma Gandhi and Ho Chi Minh. Hence, individuals like them can be considered the most highly evolved souls.

Not everyone willingly embraces the concept of fate, yet it serves a valuable purpose for humanity. As our evolution has not reached an advanced level, fate is necessary to curb the negative tendencies and cruel actions stored in our RLPI from previous lives. When we are reincarnated, we often follow familiar patterns. Fate helps suppress these negative tendencies and guides us toward positive directions. God shapes the fate of good-hearted individuals to provide them with opportunities for further moral and dignified development. For those with wicked tendencies, fate serves as a means to restrain the negativity lingering in their souls.

It is crucial not to misconstrue fate as a mechanism for controlling and limiting our thoughts and actions, akin to a machine. The fact that fate is predetermined and unchangeable does not negate our free will. Without free will, life would lose its meaning, and God’s divine plan would be futile. Our free will in this life, whether for good or bad deeds, influences our fate in the next life. God and the angels do not always directly intervene in our thoughts and actions. Instead, they employ various methods to execute fate in alignment with the predetermined course of events.

One such method is through heredity. In our daily lives, we often observe families and clans excelling in particular professions, such as politics, music, business, or traditional crafts. This is often attributed to inheriting favorable genes. In reality, human heredity primarily influences physical traits and cognitive processing speed. All other characteristics stem from the soul selected for reincarnation by God. The virtues and skills of these chosen souls must align with those of their prospective parents. This arrangement enables children to develop their skills effectively, with parents providing support tailored to their family’s profession. In such cases, God has a dual purpose: shaping fate for these individuals while creating favorable conditions for their evolution.

However, there are instances where children vehemently oppose working in their family’s chosen profession and instead pursue unrelated careers. This occurs when, during pregnancy, God cannot find a soul possessing both suitable virtues and skills for the parents. In such cases, God prioritizes virtues and foregoes skills. This phenomenon, such as “phá gia chi tử” (children that bring misfortune to the family) or instances of wealthy parents bearing abnormal children, appears to reflect a mismatch in virtues between parents and children. However, these occurrences align with the laws of karma. If parents have children who bring misfortune or are abnormal, it is because their fate decrees they must confront issues carried over from past lives. These situations serve as reflections of their deeds in previous incarnations.

In addition to heredity, God also employs His angels to influence fate through the use of super brainwaves. We often believe that our thoughts and actions are entirely our own, but in reality, angels can utilize super brainwaves to transmit messages directly to our minds or manipulate information within the RPLI to guide our decisions and actions. These interventions by angels, steering our thoughts and actions towards either success or failure, must align with the pre-established course of events outlined in our fate. When such occurrences take place, people often attribute them to divine or otherworldly influences.

The impact of the law of karma is profoundly transformative, and what we perceive is just the tip of the iceberg. We have yet to comprehend the full extent of its magnificence. Hence, when discussing human fate, we often assume that God wields His supreme power to impose it, using this power to reward those who follow His teachings and bring suffering to those who do not believe in Him. However, God is the Creator who always loves and supports us as an observer. He neither punishes nor favors anyone. His actions, along with those of the angels, are governed by the law of karma. Fate, in essence, is an integral component of the supreme law of cause and effect in the universe. The law of karma extends its influence over the entire universe and unfailingly responds to every occurrence with perfect natural precision.

Here are examples of the natural law of cause and effect operating without external intervention:

  • For instance, when humans engage in deforestation and contribute to air pollution, the law of cause and effect naturally responds with negative consequences such as ozone layer depletion, global warming, melting ice caps, rising sea levels, droughts, and hurricanes. When humans excessively exploit natural resources, affecting tectonic structures, earthquakes and tsunamis may occur, bringing negative repercussions to our lives. These phenomena are not coincidental but are the direct result of human actions, illustrating the law of cause and effect.
  • Similarly, in cases of heinous crimes like robbery, drug trafficking, or other illegal activities, judges impose penalties, such as imprisonment or the death penalty, not as a form of punishment but as a fulfillment of their duty to enforce the law. Conversely, numerous scientists, politicians, writers, and social activists dedicate themselves to contributing positively to society and receive recognition, perhaps even Nobel Prizes. However, we should not assume that the awards granted by committees are rewards for their specific deeds. Instead, these examples underscore the presence of the law of cause and effect, showing that everything occurs due to human actions.

Human fate, too, is a consequence of the law of cause and effect. To ensure absolute fairness, God and the angels must control and orchestrate it in accordance with the predetermined course of events within fate. Let’s explore a few cases:

  • For instance, if, in this life, we intentionally cause someone to go blind, in the next life, we may experience blindness ourselves. God operates the law of karma so that we personally undergo the suffering we inflicted upon others.
  • Similarly, a manufacturer who knowingly produces a product with harmful or carcinogenic effects on consumers may, in the next life, suffer from cancer and endure the pain experienced by cancer patients.
  • A leader who abuses power, engages in corruption, and oppresses the people, causing their suffering, may, in the next life, undergo all the hardships and suffering he inflicted upon others.
  • An individual engaged in an extramarital affair that brings pain to their spouse may, in the next life, face betrayal by their own lover or spouse without apparent reason, experiencing the agony of betrayal.
  • A child who disrespects their parents may, in the next life, be subjected to the disrespect and irreverence of their own children.
  • If we harbor prejudices and discriminate against others based on race or other factors, we may, in the future, become the targets of discrimination ourselves, experiencing the stigmatization inflicted by others.
  • Conversely, individuals who selflessly dedicate themselves to society, sharing love, wealth, and assistance without conditions, may inadvertently help others overcome difficulties, bringing joy and happiness. The law of karma dictates that these benevolent individuals, in their next lives, will be destined for conditions that allow them to experience the joy and happiness they previously bestowed upon others.
  • Likewise, a teacher who imparts valuable knowledge to students with love and dedication may, in their next life, not only gain abundant knowledge but also reap the rewards achieved by their students, which could include wealth, fame, or happiness—rewards stemming from the knowledge the teacher imparted in the past.

In summary, the law of karma is a grand and intricate system that goes beyond simple cause-and-effect relationships. It encompasses the principle that living virtuously brings benefits not only to ourselves but also to others. It calls us to live morally, benefiting ourselves and bringing happiness and success to those around us. We should strive to love, dedicate, and share more. We should work diligently, even in the smallest tasks, as long as they bring joy and happiness to others—these actions represent true virtue.

However, in reality, humans are unaware of their past lives, leading many to either accept or reject the concept of fate. When faced with adversity, people often blame God for perceived injustices and unfairness, enviously observing the happiness and success of others. They attribute this success to luck, fortune, or divine favor rather than recognizing the role of talent. It’s not easy being God, as He must listen to countless prayers for many things from us.

When examining the concept of fate, we come to realize that many individuals tend to struggle the most when they refuse to accept the reality of their circumstances. Those who resist acceptance often find themselves plagued by boredom, envy, jealousy, and desires, among other negative emotions. These emotions can drive them to pursue change at any cost, often leading to actions that result in failure and an overall deterioration of their lives.

For example, consider a person born into a financially disadvantaged family who refuses to acknowledge their situation. They aspire to acquire substantial wealth quickly to satisfy their desires and often resort to unethical means, potentially leading them down a path of criminality. Similarly, individuals with limited education and communication skills who fail to recognize their weaknesses may attempt to take on more responsibilities than they can handle, ultimately resulting in failure.

There are also instances where people must confront the inevitabilities of aging and mortality, which are inherent aspects of human existence. However, those who accept these natural life stages tend to experience them with less fear and pain.

It’s crucial to distinguish between refusing to accept the reality of a situation and accepting the situation itself. Acceptance does not equate to surrender; instead, it involves understanding one’s current circumstances, position in life, family, and society, and appreciating one’s personal strengths. When a person accepts the reality of their situation, they are better equipped to adapt to their circumstances, seek opportunities, and find joy and happiness in life. Over time, the weight of anguish becomes less burdensome.

In reality, we cannot completely eliminate desires, envy, passion, anger, hatred, or boredom, as they are inherent aspects of human nature, encompassing both positive and negative elements. Our current task is not to renounce these aspects or suppress what we perceive as undesirable traits on our journey toward perfection. Throughout history, our willingness to learn and evolve has been less than admirable, and the path to holiness and perfection requires a lengthy process of reincarnation and spiritual evolution. It does not entail instantaneous divine transformation. As Buddha emphasized, “Today I am Buddhist; tomorrow you will be Buddhist.” The Buddha he referred to represents highly evolved beings in the universe.

It’s essential to understand that everything we experience—be it suffering, unhappiness, happiness, wealth, or fame—is part of God’s plan for each of us. He recognizes that our souls require these experiences to mature. Life inherently comprises both positive and negative aspects, offering a diverse range of experiences. God, as the supreme creator, crafted the world with purpose. He created suffering to help us appreciate happiness, evil to help us recognize goodness, and challenges to instill noble values.

One question often arises: if God exists, why doesn’t He make Himself known? Our current level of evolution is still in its infancy, making it challenging for us to comprehend God in any form. Misconceptions about God abound, and if He were to appear, it might be difficult for humanity to accept His presence. Additionally, God does not have a need to reveal Himself; He is beyond such requirements. The world’s turmoil and suffering are not solely the result of God’s actions but are largely the consequences of human creativity and endeavors. We should reflect on how we have contributed to society and the world instead of questioning why the world is as it is.

Furthermore, some may wonder why God, while desiring perfection in humans, also created evil. If everything were perfect from the outset, the world would lack diversity and evolution would be nonexistent. The current state of the world reflects the ongoing process of social evolution—a change brought about by the collective efforts of humanity. Positive change is a product of evolution, as people collectively seek to build a better future. It is essential to understand that we have the power to bring about change if we desire it.

God cannot simply make everything perfect because doing so would violate natural laws. Consider the example of Alfred Nobel, who invented dynamite—a neutral creation. It is neither inherently good nor evil; its use is determined by human choice. When used for warfare, it becomes a tool of evil, while applied for constructive purposes, it serves humanity’s good. Similarly, when scientists invented lasers, their use for medical applications and saving lives represents a positive invention. However, employing lasers as weapons is detrimental.

God created humanity, including male and female, opposites, contrasts, and the concepts of good and evil. These polarities and distinctions exist in the natural world, devoid of inherent right or wrong, good or bad, or honor and shame. Human consciousness is responsible for identifying and evaluating these aspects. Birds soaring through the sky view the world without judgment, devoid of notions of right or wrong, good or bad. It is human consciousness, a divine gift, that provides us with the capacity to discern and navigate these distinctions.

In the eyes of an observer, God perceives that everything occurring in life is necessary for the evolution of the soul. When we experience happiness, it teaches us how to navigate and appreciate the absence of misery. Conversely, when we encounter pain, it can be a source of growth as it allows us to value happiness and strive for more of it. Just as we cherish warm summer days after enduring the cold of winter, our numerous lifetimes and experiences eventually guide us towards discovering the optimal path for perfecting our spiritual and conscious growth.

God always operates with the utmost wisdom, seeking to provide us with the best, even though we may not always comprehend His intentions. In God’s perspective, there is no concept of punishment, and bad karma is simply the result of the law of cause and effect. Everyone will eventually attain their highest aspirations, and the idea of hell as a punitive realm does not exist. Heaven and hell are human constructs, not actual places. We do not find heaven after death; instead, we experience it in our state of mind, spirit, and body working in harmony. Many believe that after death, the soul goes to heaven, and this belief is not entirely unfounded. As explained in Chapter 3, when we pass away, God retrieves our soul to prepare for the process of reincarnation. However, we do not permanently reside in God’s kingdom after death; we continue to live on Earth.

Death, as we commonly understand it, refers to a state where the soul departs from the body in search of opportunities for reincarnation. We must acknowledge that our souls are immortal, and death solely pertains to the physical body. However, not many people believe in the immortality of the soul or in reincarnation, even though there is substantial evidence supporting these concepts. Human skepticism prevails, and many demand scientific proof, although personal experiences and introspection can be equally convincing. It is essential to believe in these truths, as disbelief could lead to a sense of futility and apathy towards moral and compassionate living.

Belief in the immortal soul and reincarnation holds great significance. Without such beliefs, individuals may lead unfulfilling lives, lacking motivation for self-improvement or contributing to global causes. Leaders who deny these concepts may lack the drive for world peace and unity, scientists may lack motivation for long-term research, and environmental activists may lose their zeal for saving the Earth.

To fully comprehend the true meaning of fate and the importance of reincarnation, we must take proactive steps. Understanding the law of cause and effect is challenging, and determining God’s intentions for our future is equally complex.

In summary, the divine plan encompasses the rules governing life in the universe, including the potent law of cause and effect. Whether we believe in fate or not, the influence of the law of cause and effect is immense, and it underpins the concept of fate. God’s arrangement of human destiny appears so natural that we often mistake life events as random occurrences or mere coincidences. However, all the positive and negative outcomes in our fate are the results of actions in our past lives, and God’s role is to ensure fairness. God and the angels adhere strictly to the laws God has established when orchestrating destinies. Nevertheless, God, with His infinite power, can manifest in various forms on Earth to reward or aid those who strive to live virtuously, bypassing the constraints of fate.

Fate is a crucial component of God’s plan to promote the evolution of life on a cosmic scale. It serves as a mechanism to maintain the law of karma and justice for all life forms, extending beyond just human existence. Fate represents a message from God, encouraging us to do good and avoid evil, as it leads us toward immortality, complete freedom, and the enjoyment of future blessings.