What does ‘Karuna’ mean?

In the heart of our foundation lies the concept of ‘Karuna’ – a term that goes beyond the simple translation of ‘compassion’ as understood in the English language. Originating from Sanskrit, where ‘kara’ means ‘to do’ or ‘to make’, Karuna embodies a proactive approach to compassion. It’s about taking tangible steps to alleviate suffering, reflecting a deep commitment to action and change.

This action-based compassion is integral to the spiritual paths of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, where it’s seen not as passive pity but as an active engagement in easing others’ hardships. At the Karuna Foundation, this principle is at the core of everything we do. It’s about transforming compassion from a feeling into a practice – actively creating a space where suffering is acknowledged and actively addressed. Karuna is the driving force behind our mission, inspiring us to create real, positive change in the lives of those we serve.

The Visual Soul of Karuna: Our Symbol, Your Journey

Each element of this logo has been thoughtfully chosen to reflect the depth of change we aim to achieve. A true metamorphosis of mind, body, and spirit!

The vibrant yellow, representing the solar plexus chakra, speaks to the core of personal power and confidence; the very qualities we nurture in those we guide. Purple, the color of the crown chakra, alludes to the ‘flame of transmutation,’ signifying spiritual connection and the transformative journey from trauma to healing.

The crescent moon symbolizes emergence from darkness, a sliver of light in the unknown, much like the first steps on the path to recovery. The tree, with its expansive branches, stands for new life, growth, and the grounding stability provided by our support. And finally, the DNA strand woven into the roots emphasizes the profound, real changes that healing can bring! Not just emotionally but physically, right down to our very biology.