Samanya Kripa—General Grace
Sāmānya Kripā (सामान्य कृपा | sāmānya kr̥pā) refers to the general act of divine grace that God bestows equally upon all living beings.
What It Is
Sāmānya Kripā is:
- universal
- given to all, regardless of devotion or awareness of God
Living beings neither earn nor repay this grace, and most remain unaware of it.
How It Manifests
Sāmānya Kripā is expressed through:
1. Universal Provisions
God provides essential elements such as:
- air
- water
- fire
- space
for all beings to use freely.
2. Sustenance
God ensures the availability of food for all life forms, with the quantity determined by their prārabdha (destiny).
3. Divine Order
God governs the law of karma, ensuring that every action is accounted for and its results are justly delivered.
Key Insight
Sāmānya Kripā sustains all beings impartially,
but does not by itself turn the soul toward God.
In Context
Sāmānya Kripā is the most basic form of grace, preceding:
- Viśeṣa Kripā (special grace for seekers)
- Adbhut Kripā (ultimate transforming grace)