Ashuklakrishna (A-Shukla-Krishna), as described in the Yogasutras by Sage Patanjali, refers to actions or karmas that are neither classified as "shukla" (white or meritorious) nor "krishna" (black or sinful). In the traditional understanding of karma, actions are typically categorized as either leading to positive outcomes (shukla) or negative consequences (krishna). However, the concept of ashuklakrishna transcends this binary classification.
For a perfected yogin, who has attained a high level of
spiritual realization and mastery over their actions, their karmas are
considered ashuklakrishna. This means that their actions are neither tainted by
sin nor motivated purely by merit-seeking. Instead, their actions are performed
selflessly, without attachment to the outcomes, and with a sense of surrender
to a higher power, often referred to as Ishwara or God.
The perfected yogin dedicates the fruits of their actions to
Ishwara, recognizing that their abilities and achievements are ultimately
derived from divine grace. As a result, their karmas do not bind them to the
cycle of cause and effect in the same way as ordinary actions do. This state of
ashuklakrishna karma leads to liberation (moksha) from the cycle of rebirth and
the suffering associated with it.
In essence, ashuklakrishna signifies a level of spiritual
purity and detachment from worldly desires, where actions are performed in
harmony with the divine will and without generating any karma that would bind
the individual to the material world.