Can sincere repentance eliminate all past karma?

We cannot directly guarantee that one sincere repentance will make every past negative influence disappear. Complete removal also depends on each person’s intentions. But in my understanding of practice, a genuine willingness to repent can lessen that negative force.

None of us is a saint. In the past, through lack of understanding and sufficient wisdom, we may have made mistakes or even harmed others. Once we understand, we can turn back and face it, acknowledge that we acted poorly and sincerely apologise for our behaviour, hoping for an opportunity to begin again.

The point is willingness from the heart, not merely saying some words. Apologising to those harmed and being willing to change from now on brings repentance into life. The past has happened, but we can still work on what we do next. We cannot stop at ‘I have already apologised.’

If you have taken money that does not belong to you, repentance must return to that concrete matter: admit the wrongdoing, return what should be returned and then correct yourself. Saying ‘I did not know’ or ‘I am sorry,’ or making a video, does not release you from responsibility.

When discussing social controversies, I likewise hope to see willingness to explain things clearly and face one’s actions. Someone immature who acted poorly can still begin again. But knowingly continuing to conceal wrongdoing and refusing to change is a different attitude from sincere repentance.