karma | the law of cause and effect

 

Introduction:

In Hinduism, the belief in the law of Karma, or Action, is fundamental. It asserts that every good thought, word, or deed has a corresponding reaction that affects our future lives. Similarly, unkind thoughts or evil actions bring harm to us either in this life or the next.

The Three Stages of Karma:

1. Prarabdha Karma: This stage suggests that the body and circumstances in which the soul is born are beyond human control. They depend on the collective impact of favorable and unfavorable actions performed in previous lives. The time of death is also determined by this karma. If one's time on Earth is not yet complete, they cannot die regardless of circumstances. However, when the appointed time draws near, nothing can prevent it.

2. Samchita Karma: This stage encompasses the accumulated karma from past lives, which influences our characteristics and aptitudes. It is subject to change, allowing individuals to improve their habits, eliminate negative thoughts, and overcome desires. Even a virtuous person can deviate from the right path.

3. Agami Karma: This stage comprises the actions performed in the present life, determining both our future in this life and the next.

Nishkama Karma: The Ideal Action:

The ideal form of karma is Nishkama Karma, performed as a duty toward God or humanity without seeking any rewards. It involves self-control, detachment from worldly attachments, and mastery over one's senses. The Bhagavad Gita states, "The self-controlled person, moving among objects, with his senses free from attachment and malevolence and brought under his own control, attains tranquility." (Bhagavad Gita II.64)

Understanding Karma:

Karma is an integral part of Hindu philosophy and embodies the law of cause and effect. It can be defined as the sum of an individual's actions in their successive states of existence, which ultimately shape their fate. The Sanskrit term "karma" refers to volitional actions undertaken deliberately or knowingly. It emphasizes self-determination, willpower, and the avoidance of inactivity. Karma distinguishes human beings from other creatures in the world.

The Natural Law:

The theory of karma aligns with Newton's principle that every action produces an equal and opposite reaction. Every thought or action we engage in creates a cause that will yield corresponding effects in due time. This cyclical cause-and-effect process gives rise to the concepts of samsara (the world) and birth and reincarnation. The karma of an individual, influenced by their positive and negative actions, shapes their destiny.

Individual Responsibility:

According to Hinduism, every person bears responsibility for their own acts and thoughts, making their karma entirely their own. While some may perceive karma as fatalistic, it is crucial to recognize that individuals have the power to shape their own future through their present actions.

Three Types of Karma:

Based on the chosen way of life, karma can be classified into three types:

1. Satvik Karma: This selfless action benefits others without attachment to personal gains.

2. Rajasik Karma: This selfish action prioritizes personal gains and ambition.

3. Tamasik Karma: This action is undertaken without considering the consequences and is driven by extreme selfishness and brutality.

The Discipline of Unattached Action:

Scriptures recommend the practice of unattached action (Nishkâma Karma) as a means to attain salvation of the soul. It advises individuals to carry out their duties in life with detachment. Lord Krishna states in the Bhagavad Gita, "Attachment arises from contemplating the objects of the senses; from attachment, longing is born; from longing, anger arises. From anger comes delusion, and from delusion,