A History of Indian Philosophy v2.c19.s7.1

v2.c19.s7.1

One of the special features of the *Yoga-vāsiṣṭha* is the special emphasis that it lays upon free-will and its immense possibilities, and its power of overruling the limitations and bondage of past *karmas*. *Pauruṣa* is defined in the *Yoga-vāsiṣṭha* as mental and physical exertions made in properly advised ways (*sādhūpadiṣṭa- *mārgeṇa*), since only such actions can succeed¹. If a person desires anything and works accordingly in the proper way, he is certain to attain it, if he does not turn back in midway². *Pauruṣa* is of two kinds, of the past life (*prāktana*) and of this life (*aihika*), and the past *pauruṣa* can be overcome by the present *pauruṣa*³. The *karma* of past life and the *karma* of this life are thus always in conflict with each other, and one or the other gains ground according to their respective strength. Not only so, but the endeavours of any individual may be in conflict with the opposing endeavours of other persons, and of these two also that which is stronger wins⁴. By strong and firm resolution and effort of will the endeavours of this life can conquer the effect of past deeds. The idea that one is being led in a particular way by the influence of past *karmas* has to be shaken off from the mind; for the efforts of the past life are certainly not stronger than the visible efforts of the moment.