What is Karma (因果)?
The law of cause and effect in Buddhist philosophy, where intentional actions — of body, speech, and mind — produce corresponding results in this life or future lives. The word karma literally means 'action' and does not imply fate or predestination. Rather, it describes a natural law of moral causation: wholesome actions lead to favorable outcomes, while unwholesome actions lead to suffering. Karma is not a system of reward and punishment administered by an external judge but an impersonal principle of conditionality. Understanding karma provides a framework for ethical responsibility and personal transformation.
Key Takeaways
- Karma (因果) is a key concept in Buddhism philosophy.
- The law of cause and effect in Buddhist philosophy, where intentional actions — of body, speech, and mind — produce corresponding results in this life or future lives. The word karma literally means 'action' and does not imply fate or predestination. Rather, it describes a natural law of moral causation: wholesome actions lead to favorable outcomes, while unwholesome actions lead to suffering. Karma is not a system of reward and punishment administered by an external judge but an impersonal principle of conditionality. Understanding karma provides a framework for ethical responsibility and personal transformation.
Understanding Karma
Karma (因果) is a Buddhism concept. The law of cause and effect in Buddhist philosophy, where intentional actions — of body, speech, and mind — produce corresponding results in this life or future lives. The word karma literally means 'action' and does not imply fate or predestination. Rather, it describes a natural law of moral causation: wholesome actions lead to favorable outcomes, while unwholesome actions lead to suffering. Karma is not a system of reward and punishment administered by an external judge but an impersonal principle of conditionality. Understanding karma provides a framework for ethical responsibility and personal transformation.
In Buddhism philosophy, Karma represents essential to Buddhist teachings on the path to liberation.
Related Concepts
- Samsara — Karma is the driving force that sustains the cycle of samsara
- Eightfold Path — The Eightfold Path provides the ethical framework for wholesome karma
- Four Noble Truths — The Four Noble Truths explain the nature of karma and its cessation
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Karma in Buddhism?
The law of cause and effect in Buddhist philosophy, where intentional actions — of body, speech, and mind — produce corresponding results in this life or future lives. The word karma literally means 'action' and does not imply fate or predestination.
What does 因果 mean?
因果 (Karma) is a Buddhism concept. The law of cause and effect in Buddhist philosophy, where intentional actions — of body, speech, and mind — produce corresponding results in this life or future lives. The word karma literally means '
How does Karma fit into Buddhism philosophy?
In Buddhism, Karma is understood as essential to Buddhist teachings on the path to liberation.
How is Karma related to Samsara, Eightfold Path, Four Noble Truths?
Karma is closely connected to Samsara, Eightfold Path, Four Noble Truths within Buddhism philosophy. Together they form a coherent framework for understanding essential to Buddhist teachings on the path to liberation.
Why is Karma important?
Karma matters because it offers a practical framework for essential to Buddhist teachings on the path to liberation.