1. 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

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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