KARMA o This literally means ‘deed’ or ‘action’ with its corresponding reaction or result o Karma is regarded by Buddhists as a law that is natural, causal and moral

BUDDHISM AND KARMA o The Buddha inherited the basis of karma from Hinduism, but reinterpreted it. o Whatever we do is like a seed sown which inevitably brings results to fruition. o We are punished or rewarded by our sins or good deeds. o Karma is impersonal – there is no God who apportions blame.

BUDDHISM AND KARMA o The law of karma is like a scientific law; it merely explains how things happen. o It does not indicate the existence of a law – giver. o There is no one who rewards and punishes us. o Because of the law of karma, we have the ability to change ourselves through our own actions.

BUDDHISM AND KARMA o Because of the Buddhist teaching on ‘conditioned co- production’ (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. o The law of karma does not attempt to explain all cause and effect processes to which we are all subject. o The law of karma is the application of the law of conditionality to the process of life and death (remember the 12 Nidanas?). o However, we must remember, it only applies to DELIBERATE ACTION.

BUDDHISM AND KARMA o 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. o 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. o 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 o There are three basic reasons why a Buddhist may try to be good:- i. Because it pays – it is selfish and a denial of anatta to earn bad karma and Buddhist’s should be selfless ii. A concern for all is good morality iii. 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 o Karma is implicit in all Buddhist ethics o The precepts are an expression of Buddhist ethics and are, therefore, linked to karma o There is a recognition of personal responsibility and that our actions have consequences o Positive or skilful actions have positive consequences in the world and for oneself o Negative or unskilful actions have negative consequences