Karma
Our lives are shaped by the law of karma. Karma, meaning ‘deed’ or ‘action’, can be explained as a powerful ‘cause and effect’ system. Every word, thought, or action triggers a corresponding reaction—there are always consequences.
“According as one acts, so does he become. One becomes virtuous by virtuous action, bad by bad action”
Hindu sacred scriptures, Vedas, tell us that we harvest the results of what we sow—good or bad. If we plant goodness that is be kind, helpful and act ethically, then we will attract positive experiences in future. If our actions are hurtful and mean, then we attract similar, negative reactions in life. Hence, our actions, good or bad, come back to us in future. However, not all karmas have immediate effects; some accumulate from past lives and the present life, perhaps returning in the next life and shaping our future.
Many believe in karma but often fail to apply it to daily life or major events. In crises, someone may ask, “Why me?” or “What did I do to deserve this?” God doesn’t test or punish us and assign individual outcomes, rather we shape our own experiences. God does not differentiate and purposely bring someone into wealth, comfort, and opportunity while deciding to give birth to another into a world of poverty, hardship, and struggle. It’s the law of karma that governs us. The acts of generosity and ethical earning in previous lives brings us prosperity in the present or future. On the other hand, actions driven by greed, exploitation, or irresponsibility in the past result in financial difficulties. The law of karma offers an explanation for the stark differences in people’s lives, helping us to make sense of why might someone be born with an illness or die at a young age or why might someone, who is kind and innocent in this life, be brutally murdered?
The nature of karma, whether harsh or beneficial, truly depends on how we experience events and respond to them. Mastering karma involves acting wisely and reacting without attachment. It’s not about good or bad, but self-created experiences offering growth. If we resist or react negatively, we miss the lessons and create new karmic challenges. If we learn to make good choices, stay calm and fulfill our duties regardless of the situation, we are in control of our karma. The belief in karma helps us understand the world we live in. Karma is our best teacher. Through karma, we gain experiences, learn valuable lessons, and grow spiritually.
Karma shouldn’t be confused with destiny, as we individuals forge our own paths through the power of our choices and actions. Karma emphasizes personal responsibility, the importance of forgiveness, and maintaining pure intentions without seeking retaliation. It reminds us to always act with care and not with ego. By being kind, respectful, and thoughtful, we help ourselves and others. Ultimately, we are accountable for our intentions and actions, and we shape our future based on the choices we make.
