THE LAW OF KARMA
- Dhammapada verse 183
WHAT IS KAMMA?
Kamma means intentional action, whether mental, verbal or physical. The result of kamma is called vipaka, the natural and necessary effect of that action. Kamma is not fate or a fixed destiny. If it were, there would be no reason to improve our lives. Understanding kamma helps us see that we have free will, but we must use it wisely. Misuse leads to suffering. Ignorance (avijja) is the root cause of kamma, while craving (tanha) fuels action and repeated birth.
Actions driven by greed, hatred and delusion are unwholesome (akusala kamma). Actions rooted in generosity, goodwill and wisdom are wholesome (kusala kamma). Buddhas and arahants no longer create kamma as they have ended ignorance and craving completely.
WHAT KAMMA TEACHES US?
Kamma helps us understand why life is the way it is, including the differences we see among people. It reminds us to be patient when facing challenges and to hold back from reacting with harm. When we truly see that every action has a result, we gain confidence that life is fair in its own way.
This encourages us to keep doing good even when it is hard. Most of all, kamma teaches us that change begins with ourselves, and through own effort, we can shape a better future for ourselves and others. It empowers us to take responsibility for our thoughts, speech and actions, knowing that each moment is a chance to plant seeds of goodness.
GROWING GOOD KAMMA
Generosity (dana) - Giving Without Expecting
Moral Conduct (sila) - Doing What Is Right
Mental Cultivation (bhavana) - Purifying The Mind
EXAMPLES TO PRACTICE
- Say "Thank You"
- Be Patient
- Help someone without being asked
- Do not take what is not given
DHAMMA REFLECTION
Upajjhanatthana Sutta (AN 5.57)
I am the owner of my kamma, the heir of my kamma; I have kamma as my origin, kamma is my relative, kamma is my resort; I will be the heir of my kamma, good or bad, that I do.
Reproduced from a leaflet published by the Nalanda Buddhist Society. All rights reserved 2025.
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