Bhishma explains the nature of karma to Yudishtra. Karma is that which you can do with your body, your mind or your words. What is thought of in the mind does not affect anyone else, except the one who thinks. Our thoughts have an effect on us. If we keep envious thoughts in our minds, or if we harbour jealousy, it will only lead to negative emotions like anger against others. So our negative thoughts lead to negative emotions and that affects our physical and mental health.
Our words can hurt others, but if they decide to ignore harsh words, then they are not going to be affected. But it is our deeds that affect others the most, said Goda Venkateswara Sastrigal in a discourse.
Now coming to Yudishtra himself, what is the action he has undertaken that has caused him worry? He has gone to war and killed many, including his own relatives. But this should not make him unhappy, because Duryodhana could never have been as just a ruler as Yudishtra. So for the sake of the people, Yudishtra had to fight and should not regret his actions.
There can be no greater sacrifice a man can make than to risk his life for the welfare of others, and this is what a warrior does. So Yudishtra has done the right thing. The problem in Yudishtra’s case is that he thinks he has erred.
As for the fruits of our karma, they will definitely come to us although there is no telling when this will happen. Every calf finds its mother and doesn’t mistake any other cow for its mother even if its mother is in the midst of thousands of other cows. As surely as this will the fruits of our actions reach us.
