Download KARMA

KARMA
This literally means ‘deed’ or ‘action’
with its corresponding reaction or result
oKarma is regarded by Buddhists as a law
that is natural, causal and moral
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BUDDHISM AND KARMA
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The Buddha inherited the basis of karma
from Hinduism, but reinterpreted it.
Whatever we do is like a seed sown which
inevitably brings results to fruition.
We are punished or rewarded by our sins or
good deeds.
Karma is impersonal – there is no God who
apportions blame.
BUDDHISM AND KARMA
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The law of karma is like a scientific law; it
merely explains how things happen.
It does not indicate the existence of a law –
giver.
There is no one who rewards and punishes us.
Because of the law of karma, we have the
ability to change ourselves through our own
actions.
BUDDHISM AND KARMA
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Because of the Buddhist teaching on ‘conditioned coproduction’ (Paticcasamuppada) not everything that
happens to us is the result of karma but rather that
everything that exists is subject to change dependent on
conditions.
The law of karma does not attempt to explain all cause and
effect processes to which we are all subject.
The law of karma is the application of the law of
conditionality to the process of life and death (remember
the 12 Nidanas?).
However, we must remember, it only applies to
DELIBERATE ACTION.
BUDDHISM AND KARMA
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The Buddha said it is the action or intention which
is karma i.e. the thoughts that govern the value of
our deeds and thus cause good or bad karma.
Karma or merit involves belief in a universe in
which matter can be ruled by mind i.e. the more
good you think you do, the more good will come
to you and the world.
Some see karma as fate, but we are not held by the
dead weight of the past, but are free to build up
merit and choose good.
BUDDHISM AND KARMA
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There are three basic reasons why a Buddhist may
try to be good:Because it pays – it is selfish and a denial of anatta
to earn bad karma and Buddhist’s should be
selfless
A concern for all is good morality
Virtue is its own reward and with this philosophy
a Buddhist would not be concerned about
attaining good karma or giving it away
SUMMARY OF BUDDHIST KARMA
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Karma is implicit in all Buddhist ethics
The precepts are an expression of Buddhist ethics
and are, therefore, linked to karma
There is a recognition of personal responsibility and
that our actions have consequences
Positive or skilful actions have positive
consequences in the world and for oneself
Negative or unskilful actions have negative
consequences