The Existence of Evil and Suffering in a World Governed by God: A Philosophical Inquiry

The question of why evil and suffering exist in the world has puzzled philosophers, theologians, and believers for centuries. Some argue that these phenomena defy the omnipotence and benevolence of a supreme being, while others believe that they are inherent in a complex and dynamic universe. In this article, we explore these concepts through the lens of philosophical inquiry and the teachings of Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita.

The Question of Evil and Suffering

It is often asserted that the existence of evil and suffering presents a profound challenge to the concept of an all-powerful and benevolent God. This argument is grounded in the belief that a supreme being, with the power to prevent suffering, should choose to do so. However, the assertion that only believers in magic can answer this question implies that the question itself is flawed. This article seeks to address the issue through a more nuanced and philosophical discussion.

The Role of Human Choice in a Divinely Governed World

According to the teachings of Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, evil and suffering exist because God Allows individuals to make their own choices. Krishna states that nature is the cause of all material causes and effects, while the living entity is the cause of suffering and enjoyment.

"Nature is said to be the cause of all material causes and effects whereas the living entity is the cause of the various sufferings and enjoyments in this world."
Bhagavad Gita 13.21

This perspective suggests that while God sets the rules and allows the universe to operate according to natural laws, human actions and choices determine the outcomes. Evil and suffering arise from the choices and actions of individuals, and they are the natural consequences of those choices.

The Role of Karma and the Challenges of Human Nature

According to the principle of karma, the actions of individuals determine their future experiences. When individuals act in accordance with God's laws, they experience positive outcomes. Conversely, when they choose actions that go against these laws, they incur negative consequences. Krishna further explains the interplay between nature and the living entity:

"The living entity in material nature thus follows the ways of life enjoying the three modes of nature. This is due to his association with that material nature. Thus he meets with good and evil among various species."
Bhagavad Gita 13.22

This passage highlights the idea that human nature is influenced by the material world, which presents challenges and temptations. The living entity is not independent of the material nature but rather part of it. This means that individuals must navigate the complexities of human nature, which often leads to the experience of suffering and evil.

The Existence of the Supersoul and the Path to Liberation

Despite the existence of evil and suffering, the Bhagavad Gita also offers a path to transcendence and liberation. Krishna introduces the concept of the Supersoul, which is a higher consciousness that resides within every living being:

"Yet in this body there is another, a transcendental enjoyer who is the Lord, the supreme proprietor, who exists as the overseer and permitter, and who is known as the Supersoul."
Bhagavad Gita 13.23

The concept of the Supersoul suggests that there is a higher order to existence that exists beyond the physical and material realm. By understanding and connecting with the Supersoul, individuals can transcend the cycle of birth and death and achieve liberation from the material world.

Pathways to Understanding and Liberation

The Bhagavad Gita provides multiple pathways for individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the nature of the universe and their role within it. These pathways include:

Through meditation and direct knowledge (jnana) Through righteous action (karma) Through unselfish surrender (bhakti)

These paths are described in the following verses of the Bhagavad Gita:

"One who understands this philosophy concerning material nature, the living entity, and the interaction of the modes of nature is sure to attain liberation. He will not take birth here again, regardless of his present position."
Bhagavad Gita 13.24

"Some perceive the Supersoul within themselves through meditation, others through the cultivation of knowledge, and still others through working without fruitive desires."
Bhagavad Gita 13.25

"Again there are those who, although not conversant in spiritual knowledge, begin to worship the Supreme Person upon hearing about Him from others. Because of their tendency to hear from authorities, they also transcend the path of birth and death."
Bhagavad Gita 13.26

"O chief of the Bharatas, know that whatever you see in existence, both the moving and the non-moving, is only a combination of the field of activities and the knower of the field."
Bhagavad Gita 13.27

The concept of the Supersoul and the pathways to understanding and liberation highlight the idea that while evil and suffering are inherent in the material world, there is a vast and intricate spiritual dimension beyond it. By aligning with this higher consciousness, individuals can find a path to transcendence and liberation.