The Role of Prophecy

As we inch ever closer to 2012 it seems the amount of predictions about different events (not just about December 21, 2012) has been on the rise. Some of the predictions are even bordering on the hysterical. Understandably, all these (usually) negative predictions can create a feeling of fear and uncertainty about the future unless we look at all of this in the proper perspective. You may ask: what other perspectives could there be about earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, pole shifts and similar disasters?

As far back as history can tell us, predicting the future has been part and parcel of human activity. Kings, ministers and other high officials usually consulted court astrologers for guidance about whether or not to wage war, if there was going to be bounty or famine or other facets that would affect the workings of the kingdom or empire. Seers and oracles, such as the famous Oracle of Delphi, relied on visions and other mystic means as the source of advice to be given. Even the Bible contains many stories of seers and prophets giving counsel or warning to kings and their kingdoms.

Whatever the means of seeing into the future, there is one common thread that binds them all: the predictions are supposed to offer guidance for future actions. Therefore, if we look at prophecies and predictions as a guide instead of as some inevitable event, then we can finally get a handle of how to manage the information provided.

The problem is that most people tend to view predictions and prophecies as unavoidable events set in stone and there is nothing to do but to weep oneself to sleep. That is really an unfortunate attitude, because if we look at it closely, the true role of prophecy is to give one the chance to make sure the prophecy does not come to pass. Yes, that's right, a prophecy is a chance for us to use our free will to change a negative event. There is a mystic saying: "The stars impel, but they do not compel." Isn't that great?

The other side of the coin is that there are also those who view all predictions as hokey. We wouldn't think twice about the validity of a doctor telling us that if we eat too many sweets everyday we'll get sick pretty quick. But essentially the doctor is making a prediction about a possible event (i.e. getting sick) in the future. Whether or not one continues to maintain a bad diet is entirely the individual's decision.

The difference between the doctor and seer of course is that we are able to comprehend the basic mechanics and biochemistry of the physical body that the doctor uses in making his diagnosis (and prediction). We can also consult other doctors for a second or third opinion or do further research on our own, so there is a way to validate a doctor's statements.

Whereas the seer or even the astrologer relies on more intangible forces that not everyone can sense or comprehend, so we're often left with taking their word for it. It also doesn't help if the prediction doesn't come to pass, or the prediction still happens despite precautionary measures being taken.

If a prediction comes true even if one changes one's habits or life patterns, it simply means the changes were not enough to completely negate the prediction. It's the same thing with the doctor again. Perhaps instead of 1 box of Krispy Kreme donuts per day, you cut it down to half a box a day. You may not get sick in a month, but you'll still get sick eventually, and you can't really blame the doctor for that.

Sometimes though, the seer is in a no-win situation, because if the prediction doesn't come true, people are more quick to call the seer a quack rather than breathe a sigh of relief that they were able to make enough changes to negate or minimize the magnitude of a particular dire prediction.

This is why it's sometimes tempting to hope that predictions of disasters come true, just to show people that one was accurate, but that temptation has to be resisted. Don't feel too bad if that thought crosses your mind, though. In the Bible, even Jonah got pissed after Nineveh changed its ways and was thus spared God's wrath. After all, Jonah went to a lot of trouble just to prophesy against Nineveh.

What's the solution then? Always work towards improving oneself so that eventually this extends to improving one's surroundings and situation in life. Service and tithing are the most basic tools one has in order to manage karma, because it's all about karmic entitlement. The more that we understand about karmic entitlement, the easier it becomes to take responsibility for our future actions and also the negative consequences we may encounter along the way, instead of instantly pinning the blame (and the responsibility) on others.

By seizing this sense of responsibility, the more we will feel in control of our lives and we can more easily recognize events for what they are, that something needs to be improved on or changed, instead of getting off balance every time something bad happens. Prophecy is therefore one of the most invaluable aids in this journey of self discovery. The Chinese character for "danger" is also the same character for "opportunity." Therefore, let's use dire predictions as opportunities to turn things around in our lives and in the lives of others. And if something bad still happens, just remember that the effects may already be less than originally intended.

Just remember, this doesn't mean we turn off our brains and ignore all predictions. If the weatherman predicts rain, bring an umbrella.