In Ajivika philosophy, fate plays a central role in understanding the nature of existence and the path to enlightenment. The word "Ajivika" itself means "one who follows a certain course of life", emphasizing the belief that one's fate is predetermined and cannot be changed.

According to Ajivika philosophy, everything in the universe, including human beings, is subject to the laws of fate. This means that every event, action, and outcome is predetermined and cannot be altered by human will or effort. This deterministic view of the world is in stark contrast to other philosophies, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, which emphasize the role of free will and individual choice.

The concept of fate in Ajivika philosophy is closely tied to the idea of karma, which is the belief that one's actions in this life will determine their fate in the next life. This notion of cause and effect is a fundamental aspect of Ajivika philosophy, as it suggests that one's fate is a result of their past actions and not a matter of chance or luck.

In Ajivika philosophy, the ultimate goal is to break free from the cycle of birth and rebirth, known as samsara, and achieve liberation, or moksha. However, this liberation is not seen as something that can be achieved through individual effort or spiritual practices. Instead, it is believed that one's fate will ultimately determine when and if they will attain moksha.

This belief in the power of fate can be seen in the way Ajivikas approach life. They do not actively seek to change their circumstances or improve their lives, as they believe that their fate is already predetermined. Instead, they focus on accepting their fate and living in accordance with it.

The role of fate in Ajivika philosophy also extends to the concept of dharma, which is the moral and ethical code that governs one's actions. Ajivikas believe that one's fate is closely tied to their adherence to dharma, and that following dharma will lead to a better fate in the next life.

In summary, fate plays a significant role in Ajivika philosophy, shaping one's present and future lives and determining their ultimate destiny. This deterministic view of the world may be seen as limiting by some, but for Ajivikas, it provides a sense of acceptance and surrender to the natural order of the universe.