Svabhava: The nature that shapes who we are
What do we normally remember about someone? It is mostly how he behaved towards us — kindly, warmly, angrily, etc. Looks, etc, become a faint memory. How he made us feel is what one remembers most. Traits of nature stand out, and we decide to deal with such a person accordingly.
For example, if someone was friendly, we are likely to continue our relationship. Conversely, if he was an egoist, one will think twice before wanting to meet him again. We all have peculiarities, and others are quick to notice them. We may not be so aware of them ourselves.
What is ‘svabhava’ (nature) made of? Just as material nature consists of the three ‘gunas’ (modes), personal nature similarly has three modes. Every one of us has a combination of goodness, passion and darkness in our nature. Whichever mode is in ascendancy at any time, we are likely to act accordingly. For example, if a person is in a good mode, he will act mostly nicely with others.
How do we get this personal nature? It is determined by the Divine Authority on the basis of our past ‘karmas’ (acts). As whatever is destined must manifest, nature also makes its presence felt. Since it will have some proportion of darkness as well, we will have many flaws in our nature. People carry deep desires for lust, greed, anger, hate, etc.
The predominance of these defines a person. Surely, we are classified accordingly. A ‘kshatriya’ (warrior) is suited to defend a country, and a ‘brahmin’ is best suited for teaching and preaching. The soul in itself is pure, but nature is what defines him. This nature will always remain with the soul wherever he goes or whatever species he is born into.
Now the main question is about its improvement. To begin with, let me clarify that nature is very difficult to change, and all changes can only be slow. Until then, a person will behave according to his nature; a lustful person will act in a lustful manner. Attempts to act differently will most likely fail (The Bhagavad Gita 3.33). Are we, then, doomed? No, because God has not made us in that fashion. But only a very determined person can effect changes in one’s nature, especially because it requires taking help from God (7.14), this being part of fate.
Faith and nature are interlinked. Lord Krishna has made it quite clear: “Faith of all is according to one’s nature only. Whatever faith he has, he is that only.” (17.3) So the solution is clear.
One has to develop faith in God. And for that, one must begin practising spiritual disciplines such as chanting, meditation, etc., to establish a connection with God.
Then God comes into action and begins to guide and help. Our habits will begin to change for the better. Simultaneously, one must begin to associate with things rooted in goodness, such as consuming food in goodness. This, together with God’s help, will change one’s nature. Ultimately, our nature shapes our actions, relationships and destiny. While svabhava is difficult to change, it is not immutable. Through faith in God, sincere spiritual practice, and association with goodness, gradual transformation becomes possible. With divine guidance, even deeply ingrained tendencies can evolve towards purity, compassion and higher consciousness.
The writer is a spiritual teacher; views are personal
