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The Law of Karma

We Are the Result of Our Own Actions

Whatever we put into motion, whether it be thoughts, words, or actions, has a reactive component that we will experience returning to us. As we have seen, the Law of Karma is the “you reap what you sow” principle. Negative actions bring negative returns and positive actions bring positive returns. The Law of Karma is not a punishment mechanism, it does not make moral judgments. It is a Law that operates impartially upon everyone.

Karma means action or to do. So, karma is a dynamic principle, it is constantly in motion. It is not (as some might have you believe) a fate that awaits you for your good deeds or bad deeds. In essence, karma dictates that every action must have a reaction, an effect. We find this same truth in Newton’s Third Law, which states that “every action must have an equal and opposite reaction.”

In the moral sphere, conscious actions have a counterpart to the physical law of action and reaction. Buddhism uses the terms Karma (intentional action) and Vipaka (reaction or the fruit of action). Thus, when we refer to intentional action and its effect (or fruit), we are referring to the Law of Karma. Karma, whether wholesome or unwholesome , can be changed according to the conditions under which one performs one’s actions. There are five conditions that can alter the weight of karma: persistent, repeated action; action done towards those who possess extraordinary qualities; action done with great intention and determination; action done without regret; and action done towards those who have benefited one in the past. So, because of the Law of Karma, we are the result of our own action.