Understanding Karma: The Law of Cause and Effect
Karma is seen as a cosmic law of cause and effect that governs all actions and their consequences. Every action we take, whether good or bad, creates an impression or 'samskara' on our consciousness, which influences our future experiences. The law of karma is seen as an integral part of the larger cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, or samsara.
Karma is also viewed as a law of cause and effect, but with some key differences. According to Buddhist teachings, karma is not just about the consequences of our actions, but also about the intentions behind those actions. The quality of our intentions, whether they are rooted in greed, hatred, or delusion, determines the quality of our karma. Unlike Hinduism, Buddhism does not subscribe to the idea of an individual soul that transmigrates from one life to the next. Instead, Buddhists believe in a process of dependent origination, where our actions create karmic tendencies that lead to the arising of new mental and physical phenomena.
Karma is seen as a subtle form of matter that pervades the universe. Every living being is believed to accumulate karmic particles or 'karma shakti' through their thoughts, words, and actions. The accumulation of karmic particles determines the quality of a person's soul and determines their future experiences. Jainism also emphasizes the importance of intention and mindfulness in one's actions, and the need to avoid causing harm or violence to any living being.
Despite these differences, the concept of karma remains a fundamental aspect of these traditions, and an important guide for ethical behavior and spiritual growth.
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