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DISCOURSE 31
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when they are on a pilgrimage or when they are on a journey. But if a beggar is under the influence of a serious form of the Labhantharaya Karma, he cannot get anything, even if he goes begging. Even generous people do not give him anything. On seeing such a person, even generous people change their minds.
PREJUDICE IS PERILOUS
Once, a gentleman said to me; “Maharajashri, I have heard that a certain rich man who is generous and magnanimous helps people and those who go to him for help do no return disappointed. I too called at the bungalow of the rich man who is known to be generous. I explained to him my financial condition and requested him to give me some money by way of a help. But he did not give me even a rupee. I had to return disappointed. Such people render charity only to attain fame. They are benevolent if they can attain fame and name. They do not attain immortal fame by rendering help to the poor fellows". The man said many such things in anger. He had no knowledge of the philosophy of Karma. I tried to explain to him the philosophy of Karma. I said, “When you are under the influence of the Labhantharaya Karma, even generous and magnanimous people do not feel like helping you. I know that the gentleman to whom you are referring has helped hundreds of the fellow-members of his faith and is helping them. If you have not got any help from him, do not deem it a defect in him; blame your sinful Karma". I do not know whether he was satisfied with my explanation or not. He, at any rate, rose to his feet and went away. Probably, he mistook me also. He might have thought. "Even the Sadhuji is taking sides with rich people". If the Labhantharaya Karma meets with Kshayopashama, one can get the desired things with a little effort.
THE THREE REACTIONS OF KARMAS
From the Audience : What is meant by Kshayopasham ?
Maharajashri : Kshayopashama means some part of the Karma being destroyed and some part being rendered ineffective. Kshaya means destruction. Upashama means rendering
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