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Understanding Karma: The Law of Cause and Effect

The Three Types of Karma: Sanchita, Prarabdha and Kriyamana

Karma is the law of cause and effect that governs all actions and their consequences. According to Hindu and Buddhist traditions, karma is a key concept in understanding the nature of existence and the path to spiritual liberation.

Types of Karma

There are three types of karma:

  • Sanchita Karma: refers to the accumulated karma from past lives that is yet to be resolved. It is the sum of all the positive and negative actions that an individual has committed in previous lives that have not yet manifested in the present. This type of karma is often compared to a bank account, in which the balance of past actions determines the quality of the present and future experiences.

  • Prarabdha Karma: refers to the portion of Sanchita Karma that has already begun to manifest in the present life. It is the karma that has been decided by fate, and the individual must experience its consequences, whether good or bad. This type of karma is often compared to a fruit on a tree, which ripens and falls when it is ready, regardless of whether the individual is ready to receive it.

  • Kriyamana Karma: refers to the actions that an individual is currently performing and their consequences. This type of karma is the most immediate and can be changed through conscious action. It is the type of karma that is created in the present and accumulates for future lives. By understanding the nature of Kriyamana Karma, individuals can take control of their lives and create positive karma for themselves and those around them.

Understanding the three types of karma is essential in cultivating a deeper understanding of the nature of existence and the impact of our actions. With this knowledge, individuals can take responsibility for their past, present, and future and create a positive impact on the world around them.

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The Law of Cause and Effect: Understanding the Mechanisms of Karma

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