The Global Head of Chinmaya Mission, Swami Swaroopananda, released a souvenir at Chinmaya Mission New Delhi titled ‘Doubts Dispelled’. It is a compilation of a series of questions – answers, from talks and satsangs, at various places with Swamiji.We are bringing this series of blogs based on that souvenir. Sorrow Follows Reaction is a blog from the series.

Why is it said that actions cause bondage?

Action, by itself, does not bind us. But the attitude with which actions are performed are crucial in determining whether they will create bondage. When an action is done, as Gurudev says, ‘with the ego and egocentric desires’, we are bound to react to the result. 

Action & Reaction:

If we like and enjoy something, it produces more desires to repeat the experience and to fulfill those we do more and more action. Conversely, a disappointment with the result leaves an impression of dislike in the mind, and we try to escape from such actions. Both are in the realm of action only. Therefore, Gurdev has succinctly pointed out, “Sin is not in action, it is in reaction.” With a reactive mind, we fall into the cycle of action and reaction. For example, if you are habituated to having tea at 4 p.m. everyday,  you are incapable of focusing on any task until you drink a cup of tea! Thus you are no longer independent; you are compelled to act. 

Actually, most of our actions are often ‘impulsive actions’ – reactions, not responses to life’s situations. When an action is performed without the right knowledge or attitude, we create impressions, technically called Vasanas in Vedanta. The action leaves, as it were, a fragrance behind, an impression that prompts us to repeat the action. It is very important to understand that though the result of an action is temporary, the impression left behind by it creates a vicious circle reaction and reaction, which is almost endless. Thereby we become bound, dependent, limited and sorrowful.

You will like to read Equal and Opposite Reaction blog.