Both words when spoken aloud sound sad and horrid. See your face in the mirror, when you say revenge. Let us try to understand the power of these two words.

I will take retribution first. I will share some quotes with you and many of you are familiar some of them.

Disease is the retribution of outraged nature. – Hosea Ballou

We are looking at what our activities have done to our habitat. It is a consequence of ecocide.

Though the mills of God grind slowly, yet they grind exceedingly small; Though with patience He stands waiting, with exactness grinds all. – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

This phrase is a variation of an ancient Greek expression by Sextus Empiricus in the third century. It suggests that even if one escapes immediate punishment, the divine forces will eventually punish them.

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written. – Roman: 12.19

Retribution in Proverbs means that unethical actions will bring retribution while ethical conduct brings blessings.

Now let us look at Karma and divine retribution. This verse describes a divine principal of retribution, stating that cruel and hateful people are,

constantly hurled into inauspicious demoniac species birth after birth, – Bhagavad Gita 16.19—20

and they gradually sink to the most abominable type of existence.

The thought of revenge conjures retaliation, payback, avenging and vengeance. It is a powerful word, which upsets us all. I share some common sayings with you.

Vengeance is mine, I will repay says the Lord.

Revenge is a dish best served cold.

Blood will have blood.

Bhagwad Gita, Verse 11.55 teaches that fighting without hatred as revenge ultimately harms the avenger. It is a universal principle that a person must face the karmic consequences of their actions either in this life or through the cycle of rebirth. The verse states that a higher purpose is to be accepted, and this means that one does not fight out of revenge but to restore Dharma (righteousness). One has to be detached from malice, and act without emotion. Be free of resentment as it is self-destructive. Do not dwell on past grievances and perform one’s duty with a spiritual intent. The Gita also advises against personal revenge, suggesting in Verse 18.42 that focusing on personal betterment is a superior path.

Lastly, we look at revenge. What does revenge do to us? It is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer according to the Buddha. He advises that one should focus on dharma (duty), self-control, and inner peace. Remain non-violent, truthful and compassionate.

Dear Ones, it is not easy for any of us to be free of feelings of revenge and to wish retribution for the evil doers. However, we have a way and this is the Yogic Path of love, serve and give.

Aim Hrim Klim