Law of karma

Definition

The law of karma is a fundamental concept in Hinduism that refers to the principle of cause and effect, where every action has consequences that affect one's future experiences. This law implies that good actions lead to positive outcomes, while bad actions result in negative consequences, not just in this life but also in future rebirths. Understanding this concept is crucial for followers of Karma Yoga, which emphasizes selfless action and the importance of performing one's duties without attachment to the results.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The law of karma emphasizes that intentions behind actions are crucial; good intentions lead to better karmic outcomes.
2. Karma is not just about actions but also includes words and thoughts, making it a comprehensive moral guideline.
3. Karma can manifest in different forms: Sanchita karma (accumulated), Prarabdha karma (the portion that is currently being experienced), and Kriyamana karma (the karma being created now).
4. Through Karma Yoga, practitioners learn to act selflessly, focusing on their duty without concern for personal gain or outcome.
5. The law of karma encourages individuals to take responsibility for their actions, fostering a sense of accountability for both their present and future lives.

Review Questions

• How does the law of karma relate to the practice of Karma Yoga?
  • The law of karma is foundational to the practice of Karma Yoga, which teaches that selfless action leads to positive karmic outcomes. In Karma Yoga, individuals are encouraged to perform their duties without attachment to the fruits of their actions. This connection helps practitioners understand that by acting selflessly and fulfilling their dharma, they can create good karma that benefits them in this life and future lives.
• Discuss how understanding the law of karma can influence an individual's approach to moral decision-making.
  • Understanding the law of karma deeply influences an individual's moral decision-making by instilling a sense of accountability for one's actions. When individuals realize that every action has consequences that extend beyond their immediate experience, they are more likely to consider the ethical implications of their choices. This awareness encourages people to act with integrity and compassion, knowing that positive actions will yield positive results for themselves and others.
• Evaluate the significance of karma in shaping one's spiritual journey and its implications for achieving Moksha.
  • The significance of karma in shaping one’s spiritual journey lies in its role as a guiding principle for ethical behavior and personal growth. By understanding how actions create karmic impressions that influence future experiences and rebirths, individuals can consciously choose to live virtuously. This conscious effort toward good karma is essential for progressing on the path toward Moksha, as it facilitates liberation from samsara by fostering spiritual development and ultimately leading to enlightenment.

Related terms

Dharma:

Dharma refers to the moral and ethical duties or responsibilities an individual has in life, which vary according to one's age, caste, and gender.

Samsara:

Samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that all beings go through, with karma influencing the conditions of each new life.

Moksha: Moksha is the liberation from the cycle of samsara, representing the ultimate goal of spiritual practice in Hinduism, achieved through good karma and self-realization.