The Meaning of “Nirbikalpa Samadhi”

Question

In the "Autobiography of a Yogi", Sri Yukteswar says that only souls who have reached the state of nirbikalpa samadhi in their earthly existence can enter Hiranyaloka in the astral world. But having reached the state of Nirbikalpa Samadhi, which is complete union with God. Why do they have to reincarnate again?

—Kailash, India

Answer

Dear Kailash,

A person in nirbikalpa samadhi can still have past karma to work out, even though he will not be creating current or future karma.
Joy,
Anandi