Karma

Definition

Karma is a fundamental concept in Hindu, Buddhist, and other Indian religious and philosophical traditions that refers to the principle of causality where intent and actions of an individual (cause) influence the future of that individual (effect). It is the spiritual principle of cause and effect where actions of an individual influence the future of that individual.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Karma is the law of cause and effect, where our actions, thoughts, and intentions shape our future experiences and circumstances.
2. Karma is not about reward and punishment, but rather the natural consequences of our choices and behaviors.
3. Positive karma is generated through virtuous actions, while negative karma is created through unethical or harmful actions.
4. Karma is believed to influence an individual's future lives, as the soul is reborn into a new body based on the accumulated karma from previous lifetimes.
5. Understanding and aligning one's actions with the principles of karma is seen as a path to spiritual growth, self-awareness, and ultimately, liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Review Questions

• Explain how the concept of karma is connected to the Hindu and Buddhist belief in reincarnation and the cycle of samsara.
  • In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, karma is closely linked to the belief in reincarnation and the cycle of samsara, the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. According to these belief systems, the actions, thoughts, and intentions of an individual in their current life will shape the circumstances and experiences of their future lives. Positive karma, generated through virtuous and righteous actions, is believed to lead to a favorable rebirth, while negative karma from unethical or harmful actions can result in a less desirable rebirth. The ultimate goal is to break free from the cycle of samsara and attain moksha, or liberation, through the accumulation of positive karma and spiritual enlightenment.
• Analyze how the concept of karma relates to the Hindu and Buddhist principles of dharma and the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.
  • The concept of karma is closely intertwined with the Hindu and Buddhist principles of dharma, which refer to the righteous path of living and behaving. Dharma outlines the moral and ethical guidelines that, when followed, are believed to lead to spiritual fulfillment and liberation. Karma, as the law of cause and effect, reinforces the importance of aligning one's actions, thoughts, and intentions with the principles of dharma. By cultivating positive karma through virtuous and righteous actions, individuals are believed to progress towards the ultimate goal of moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. This connection between karma, dharma, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment is a central tenet of Hindu and Buddhist philosophies, guiding adherents on their journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.
• Evaluate the role of the concept of karma in shaping the worldview and ethical framework of Hindu and Buddhist societies.
  • The concept of karma is a fundamental pillar in the worldview and ethical framework of Hindu and Buddhist societies. By emphasizing the principle of cause and effect, where an individual's actions, thoughts, and intentions shape their future experiences and circumstances, the concept of karma encourages a deep sense of personal responsibility and accountability. This worldview shapes the ethical and moral codes that guide the behavior and decision-making of adherents, as they strive to cultivate positive karma through virtuous actions and the observance of dharma, or righteous living. The belief that karma transcends the current lifetime and influences future rebirths also fosters a long-term perspective on the consequences of one's choices, promoting a more holistic and spiritually-oriented approach to life. Ultimately, the concept of karma is instrumental in shaping the ethical foundations, social norms, and spiritual aspirations of Hindu and Buddhist societies, serving as a guiding principle for individual and collective well-being.

Related terms

Dharma: Dharma refers to the principles of righteous living and behavior, which when followed, lead to spiritual fulfillment and liberation.

Samsara: Samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth to which life in the material world is bound, according to Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.

Moksha: Moksha is the liberation from the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment or union with the divine.