What is Karma?
कर्म (Karma) — Action / Deed / Cause and Effect
Deep Understanding
Karma literally means 'action' or 'doing'. In the spiritual and philosophical sense, it refers to the spiritual principle of cause and effect where intent and actions of an individual (cause) influence the future of that individual (effect). Good intent and good deeds contribute to good karma and happier rebirths, while bad intent and bad deeds contribute to bad karma and bad rebirths.
Karma provides a rational explanation for the inequities in life and forms the basis for moral responsibility in dharmic traditions. It is deeply tied to the concepts of Samsara (cycle of rebirth) and Moksha (liberation).
Core Principles
- 1Every action creates a corresponding reaction
- 2Sanchita Karma (accumulated karma from the past)
- 3Prarabdha Karma (karma bearing fruit in the present)
- 4Agami Karma (future karma being created now)
In Practice
Understanding karma encourages mindful action, ethical behavior, and taking responsibility for one's life. The practice of Karma Yoga—acting without attachment to the results—is a direct application of this principle to attain spiritual growth.
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