karma

Karma is a central concept in Indian religions, representing the law of cause and effect where an individual's actions influence their future.

Karma, a Sanskrit term meaning "action" or "deed," is a fundamental concept in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It refers to the universal law of cause and effect where every action, good or bad, has repercussions on an individual's future. According to this belief, virtuous actions lead to positive outcomes, while negative actions result in adverse consequences. Karma determines not only the events in a person's current life but also their future rebirths (reincarnations). In Hinduism, there are three types of karma: sanchita karma (accumulated karma), prarabdha karma (karma manifesting in the present life), and kriyamana karma (karma being created). Jainism and Buddhism share a similar yet distinct view, emphasizing the purification of the soul or mind to achieve liberation (moksha or nirvana). Understanding and managing one's karma is considered essential for spiritual progress and ultimate liberation in these religious traditions.