Rethinking Karma: What It Really Means Beyond Common Misconceptions

KarmaPhoto byPrabhala Raghuvir

What is Karma?

I thought of writing something about karma. The basic idea for it was that there is one life and one karma cycle associated with it. Karma is not actually what we understand.

Karma as a Philosophy

Karma, a concept deeply rooted in Eastern philosophies, is often oversimplified in Western understanding. It transcends the common notion of a simple cause-and-effect system, extending into a complex web of interconnectedness and spiritual evolution.

Karma, a central concept as a philosophy, is intricately woven into the fabric of life, transcending the boundaries of time and individual actions. Karma is not just a simplistic system of cause and effect; it encompasses a profound understanding of existence, morality, and the interconnected nature of the universe. It views life as a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara. Karma, in this context, refers to the accumulated actions of an individual that determine their destiny across successive lifetimes. This cyclic existence is governed by the concept of dharma, the righteous and moral duties inherent to each individual.

As a cause and effect

At its core, karma operates on the principle of cause and effect. Every action, whether physical, mental, or emotional, sets in motion a series of consequences. Positive actions lead to positive outcomes, while negative actions result in adverse effects. This law of cause and effect is not limited to a single lifetime but extends across the vast expanse of one’s karmic journey.

Karma is commonly perceived as a system where one’s actions in this life determine future outcomes, either positive or negative. This simplistic view can lead to misconceptions and a narrow understanding of the concept. Going beyond the individualistic interpretation, karma can be seen as a cosmic force connecting all living beings. Actions are not isolated events but ripple through the fabric of existence, influencing the collective energy of the universe.

Emporal and transcendental

Karma operates on both temporal and transcendental levels. While actions may have immediate consequences, they also contribute to the soul’s journey across lifetimes, shaping its evolution and ultimate liberation. Karma is not solely about actions; intention plays a crucial role. A seemingly positive action driven by selfish motives may generate different karmic consequences than a selfless act. Understanding the purity of intention adds depth to our comprehension. Karma serves as a mechanism for learning and growth. Challenges and setbacks in life are not mere punishments but opportunities for the soul to evolve, learn important lessons, and refine its spiritual essence.

The deterministic view of karma as a rigid, unchangeable fate should be reconsidered. Wisdom lies in recognizing that individuals possess the power to alter their karmic trajectory through conscious choices and spiritual development. In the expansive understanding of karma, compassion and forgiveness become powerful tools. By cultivating these virtues, individuals can transcend negative karmic cycles, contributing to a more harmonious and interconnected world.

What do we mean by Karma

Karma to be pronounced as kar-muh is made of two words kar and ma. Kar means do and ma is the universe so do some action or work in this universe. The concept of deliverance due to our actions in this world is a different one.

Often times, we associate karma with retribution, consequences, and justice. However, the concept of karma is much more profound and complex than that. Karma is a concept that describes the action, or conduct, of an individual resulting in a certain outcome or consequences. It is not about what we understand or perceive, but about the unseen laws of cause and effect that govern our world.

Think of karma as a balancing act. On one hand, our actions shape our lives by creating opportunities and experiences that we bring into existence. On the other hand, these actions also have consequences, which can either benefit or harm us in the long run.

It is important to understand that karma is not about punishment or reward. It is not about choosing between right and wrong. Instead, karma is about our inherent free will, and the choices we make, both big and small, throughout our lives.

For example, if we choose to be honest and ethical in our dealings, we may experience happiness and success in the long run. On the other hand, if we choose to deceive and steal, our actions will ultimately lead to us experiencing pain and loss.

“If the karmah is positive the phala is also positive.”

Derivation of Karma

Karma or Karmah as it is known in Sanskrit must be associated with another Sanskrit word phala means result or effect. Karma can be broadly put into three types Prarabdha karma, Sanchita karma, and Kriyamana karma. Sanchita (accumulated karma from past lives), Prarabdha (karma currently being experienced in the present life), and Agami or Kriyamana (new karma generated in the current life). Understanding these categories helps individuals navigate their karmic journey with a sense of purpose and responsibility.So, the concept is that whatever karmah you do has an effect positive or negative depending on the actions you take. If the action is negative the resultant effect is also negative. If the karmah is positive the phala is also positive. So, it was advised to do positive deeds without thinking about the consequences as positive deeds always have a positive effect.

Karma in the west

Karma as we understand it in the West is different. It just captures part of the whole philosophy of cause and effect. Prarabdha karma is part of the previous karma or predetermined karma is the karma that we experience in our current life. It is the seed that has already been planted so we cannot directly change it but can control how it affects us, and how we respond to it. Whatever actions we do as a result will accumulate for our future karma.

“If we have negative karma or positive karma and do positive actions then we add to it positively or negatively as the case may be.”

Sanchita karma is all the karma, the sum total, that we have gathered from our past lives. So whatever good or bad actions we have done in the past life are accumulated into this category and influence our karma. We can add to it or we can subtract from it, both positive as well as negative. For example, if we have positive karma and we do negative actions we subtract from it. If we have negative karma or positive karma and do positive actions then we add to it positively or negatively as the case may be.

The third one Agami or Kriyamana karma is the karma that we are creating in our current life, the karma that determines our future life effects. It is like the seed that we plant now for our future lives. An example could be the height that we acquire we don’t have control over it so it could be our Prarabdha karma. However, the weight that we acquire is our Sanchita karma, we can control it and change it.

Good karma and bad karma

The concept is that we can change the way we will be in the future by doing actions in our current life. Positive actions like helping others, being kind and compassionate, forgiving of others, being honest, and leading a life of virtue lead to good karma. Whereas deeds like lying, hurting others, being selfish or stealing from others, and spreading hate and violence lead to bad karma. Hence the concept that is understood by us in general is that every action has a consequence. The only difference is that the consequence is for the next life, not this one.

“The only way to break it is through moksha or nirvana. You attain moksha when you are freed from your karma and are freed from the cycle of rebirth.”

We are already reaping the effects of what we did in our past lives. The whole karma concept doesn’t die with you it basically is with you in all your lives in this cycle of birth and death. The only way to break it is through moksha or nirvana. You attain moksha when you are freed from your karma and are freed from the cycle of rebirth. It is the liberation of the soul from the birth cycle and hence getting freedom from all the sufferings that come with it. It is where you experience the perfect peace and happiness.

“It extolls us to do good and be good. It tells us to perform positive deeds without thinking of the outcome. Just doing our best and not thinking of what we will achieve out of it. Leaving the effect out of the cause. Karma is not about punishment.”

Moksha

There are various ways to achieve moksha. Bhakti yoga, jnana yoga, karma yoga and raja yoga. Bhakti yoga is the path where we surrender to God, devote our lives to God, and are righteous. Jnana yoga involves the path of knowledge and understanding reality. Karma yoga is what we are discussing here where we perform selfless actions and lead a positive life which determines our total karma balance. If our positive and negative balance is zeroed that is when we are freed from it.

The ultimate goal of karma is moksha, liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Positive karma aligns with dharma and contributes to the purification of the soul, facilitating spiritual progress. By adhering to righteous actions, individuals gradually transcend the material realm and move closer to self-realization.

Gita, expounds the concept of Karma Yoga – the path of selfless action. Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duties without attachment to the results. This teaching underscores the importance of acting in accordance with dharma while maintaining a sense of detachment from personal gains.

Reincarnation, provides a continuous opportunity for karmic evolution. Each life offers a chance to learn, grow, and resolve past karmic imbalances. While karma acknowledges the influence of past actions, it discourages fatalistic attitudes. Individuals are encouraged to exercise free will and make conscious choices. The ability to shape one’s destiny through present actions is a key aspect of the dynamic nature of karma.

It encourages the cultivation of virtues like compassion and forgiveness. These qualities not only generate positive karma for the individual but also contribute to a harmonious and interconnected society. The acknowledgment of the interdependence of all living beings lies at the heart.

It teaches that each individual is the master of their own destiny. While external factors may influence one’s life, the response to those influences is within one’s control. This empowerment through personal responsibility is a fundamental aspect of the karmic philosophy.

It extolls us to do good and be good. It tells us to perform positive deeds without thinking of the outcome. Just doing our best and not thinking of what we will achieve out of it. Leaving the effect out of the cause. Karma is not about punishment or reward it is just the accumulation of the effect of our actions.

The last one is the Raja yoga is the path of deep meditation. We develop our mind to such a state that we understand the soul and get freed from this cycle. So gathering new Karma is not something immediate but something you will face in the next life

Conclusion

Karma is a complex and powerful concept that sheds light on the interconnectedness of our actions and the outcomes they bring. It is not about retribution or consequences, but rather about growth and self-awareness. So, the next time you face a challenge or difficult situation, try to approach it with a greater sense of understanding and compassion. Remember, karma is not what we understand, but what we learn from our experiences.

In reevaluating our understanding of karma, it is crucial to move beyond simplistic cause-and-effect notions. Embracing a holistic perspective that incorporates interconnectedness, intention, and the potential for spiritual growth enriches our comprehension of this profound concept. By doing so, we can navigate life with a deeper sense of purpose and contribute to the collective evolution of consciousness.

Karma offers a profound framework for understanding the nature of existence and the path to spiritual liberation. It goes beyond a simplistic system of reward and punishment, encompassing the complexities of intention, interconnectedness, and the continuous journey of the soul. As individuals navigate the intricate web of karma, they are invited to embrace their dharma, engage in selfless action, and strive for the ultimate goal of moksha.

References

Books

1. “The Concept of Karma: A Study of the Theory of Rebirth in Indian Philosophy” by M. Hiriyanna

• Provides a comprehensive analysis of the concept of karma in Indian philosophy.

2. “Karma and Rebirth: A Cross-Cultural Study” by Philip Carr-Gomm

• Explores the concept of karma and rebirth from a cross-cultural perspective.

3. “The Law of Karma: The Philosophy of Karma and Its Influence on Our Lives” by Chögyam Trungpa

• Offers insights into the philosophy of karma and its impact on personal and spiritual growth.

4. “Karma: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and Why It Matters” by Michael C. C. Adams

• A modern exploration of karma, clarifying common misunderstandings and highlighting its significance.

Academic Articles and Papers

1. “Karma and Rebirth in Indian Philosophy: A Critical Analysis” by Swami Sivananda

• An academic paper examining the principles of karma and rebirth in various Indian philosophical traditions.

2. “The Philosophical Foundations of Karma” by G. H. Hardy

• Discusses the philosophical underpinnings of karma and its implications for ethics and personal responsibility.

3. “Karma in Modern Contexts: Misinterpretations and Misuse” by Rajiv Malhotra

• Analyzes how the concept of karma has been misinterpreted and misused in contemporary contexts.

Online Resources and Articles

1. “What Is Karma? A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Karma” - The Chopra Center

• Provides an overview of karma, including its spiritual and philosophical aspects.

2. “Karma Explained: The Truth About Karma and Its Real Meaning” - Mindful

• Offers insights into the real meaning of karma and debunks common myths.

3. “The True Meaning of Karma: A Guide to Its Real Significance” - HuffPost

• Discusses the true significance of karma beyond popular interpretations.

4. “Karma in Buddhism: The Real Meaning of Karma in Buddhist Philosophy” - Buddhism Now

• Explores the concept of karma from a Buddhist perspective and its implications.