An Overview Of The Law Of Karma

The Law of Karma is an important concept in Hindu Dharma. The term ‘Karma’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘kri,’ which means ‘deeds,’ ‘actions,’ or ‘to do.’ Thus, we can say that the law is directly related to what people do. This concept holds both philosophical and spiritual significance.

• The Law states that all words, thoughts, and deeds generate energy. This energy comes back to people in some form or another. Good actions lead to positive consequences, while bad deeds bring unpleasant situations.
• Humans are fully accountable for their deeds. The actions of the past determine the present circumstances, while the actions of the present decide what the future will be.
• When considering the philosophies of Hindu Dharma and Buddhism, it is clear that karma and rebirth are interconnected. When a person performs ethical actions, they are likely to have a better future life. Conversely, bad deeds will lead to suffering in subsequent births.
• Several explanations of karma convey that it is not related only to deeds. The underlying intentions are very crucial, too. So, if an individual has noble intentions, the results are going to be positive.
• Through things like spiritual practices and good actions, the harmful effects of past karma can be mitigated to a certain extent. There is a possibility of altering one’s destiny.
• We can consider karma to be a natural law that delivers justice and ensures the cosmic balance is maintained. This law makes people face the consequences of their actions, either in the present life or in future births.
• Here, we need to understand an aspect of utmost significance. Karma is not just retributive, contrary to popular belief. It gives a person an opportunity to learn and grow spiritually. If they include good actions and thoughts in their life, their future becomes better.

Karma in Hindu Dharma – Different Types
These are the various types of karma according to Hindu Dharma.

• The karma accumulated in previous lives is called Sanchita Karma.
• The part of karma that exercises its impact on the present life is Prarabdha Karma.
• In the same way, Kriyamana Karma is the karma that builds up in the present life.
• Lastly, we have the Agami Karma. It is focused on the present actions that lead to future karma.

The Law of Karma emphasizes the importance of leading a morally correct life. An individual is responsible for their actions. The law guides human beings to live a purposeful life that stays aligned with dharma.

Karma in Other Religions
Karma is a pivotal element in Buddhism. It becomes much more relevant when it is a question of an individual’s attempt to attain Nirvana. Nirvana, or enlightenment, means liberation from the cycle of birth-death-rebirth. When a person lives a life that conforms to ethical precepts, this objective can be realized.

Jainism teaches that adhering to ascetic disciplines frees a person from Karma. This religion believes that Karma is a physical thing attached to the soul. In Sikhism, the significance of Karma is accepted. However, the religion places greater emphasis on leading an ethical life to gain divine grace, which enables an individual to break free from the Karmic cycle.