fate

A principle of what is ordained for human beings, which may also constrain gods in some mythologies. Fate is also described as the ‘destiny’ of individuals or nations.

In classical mythology, the three Fates (and in Scandinavian mythology, the three Norns) wove and cut a thread of life for all mortals, and so fate is often associated with the timing and circumstances of an individual's death. In Christian thought, divine providence may play a similar role, balanced by the idea of free will. In Islam kismet entails submission to Allah, whereas in Hindu belief karma, as the sum of an individual's actions, determines an improved or worsened fate in the next life.

The related idea of fatalism entails submission to fate, as this is perceived either to affect individuals or wider social groups.