The Law Of Karma – A Unique Contribution of India to the World

The law of cause and effect forms an integral part of Hindu philosophy. This law is termed as 'karma', which means to 'act. As in my earlier post on Hinduism I have been writing that all concepts, philosophies, festivals of Hindu religion are based on my scientific and social theory, the same is the Law of Karma.

The theory of karma harps on the Newtonian principle that every action produces an equal and opposite reaction. Every time we think or do something, we create a cause, which in time will bear its corresponding effects. This cause and effect generates the concept of samsara (or the world) and birth and reincarnation. Karma doest not only mean physical action. Mental actions also constitute Karma. Karma could bring fruition immediately or at a later stage. "Good karma" and "bad karma," which are stored reactions that gradually unfolds to determine our unique destiny. The karma incurred by a person through his actions determines the course of his life upon earth and his progression into the higher world. Hindu philosophy, which believes in life after death, holds the doctrine that if the karma of an individual is good enough, the next birth will be rewarding, and if not, the person may actually devolve and degenerate into a lower life form.

Things do not happen in this universe by accident or chance in a disorderly manner. They happen in regular succession. They follow one another in a regular order. There is a certain definite connection between what is being done now by you, and what will happen in the future. Past – Present – Future all are connected. Everything in this universe is connected. Even if we do something unimportant, it important that it gets done as everything is connected. Each step leads to a next step so neither the first step or the last steps are of greater significance. As both the steps were needed to accomplish the task.

There are three kinds of Karma’s. Prarabdha (so much of past actions as has given rise to the present birth), Sanchita (the balance of past actions that will give rise to future births - the storehouse of accumulated actions), Agami or Kriyamana (acts being done in the present life).

The doctrine of Karma is not only associated Hinduism.Jainsim, Buddhisim, Sikkhism all these great religions revolve around the Law of Karma.In Christianity its said ‘What you sow,you reap this also the cause and effect, thus Law of Karma.For good karma it is necessary to stabilize our minds and thoughts. This can be done by practicing Yoga. Also good Karma can be achieved by following Dharma.