How Dharma, Adharma, and Karma are Interconnected

Deeds that are by Dharmic laws lead to the accumulation of good karma, which contributes to spiritual growth. The individual experiences genuine happiness. However, when a person engages in actions that fall under ‘Adharma,’ it generates bad karma. As a result, they face negative situations in their life. It is karma that determines the future of an individual. The prevalent circumstances in life can be attributed to the choices made in the past.

• When a person lives their life obeying Dharmic principles, their actions are in harmony with the cosmic order. This creates good karma. Here, we can take an example of a king whose regime prioritizes the welfare of the people. This ruler will accumulate good karma.
• If the actions are in the “Adharma” category, the moral precepts are violated; the peace in a society is seriously disturbed. These are the deeds that pave the way for bad karma. Suffering either in the future of the present life or a subsequent life becomes inevitable. For example, people who always lie or commit theft cannot escape hardships in the future.
• The Law of Karma ensures that human beings remain motivated to perform deeds that align with Dharma. This law teaches people that only positive actions can guarantee them a future that is generally favorable.
• Karma, Dharma, Adharma, and the Cycle of Samsara are interconnected. Samsara is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Adherence to Dharma allows individuals to have a better life in their future births and can also help a person attain Moksha, freedom from that cycle.
• Adharmic deeds make a person bound by the Cycle of Samsara. They keep facing hardships all their lives until they realize the value of Dharma and change their lives accordingly.
• It is only Dharma that sustains harmony and balance in the universe, while Adharma severely disrupts this balance. The Law of Karma ensures that human beings are held accountable for their actions, helping to restore balance in the long run. For example, in a society where the majority of people follow Dharma, there is order and prosperity. However, in a society where Adharma prevails, chaos and anarchy are the result.
• People are advised to analyze their thoughts and actions to ensure that they do not go against Dharma. Their deeds should not cause any harm to others. People should adhere to values such as honesty, kindness, and selflessness. It is equally significant that an individual discharges their duties with sincerity.
• If people are committed to leading a life that does not deviate from Dharma, they acquire positive karma. This helps them to attain spiritual growth, which eventually takes them nearer to Moksha.
• It’s Dharma that stipulates different responsibilities for varied groups in a society. People belonging to specific groups have to fulfill their responsibilities. When everyone does justice to the precise role assigned to them, good karma is gained. There is balance and peace in society.

Karma is simply the outcome of what a person chooses between Dharma and Adharma. A thorough understanding of the connection between Dharma, Adharma, and Karma is essential for leading a meaningful life.