Understanding Karma, The Law of Cause and Effect and Compensation

"Every action ripples, karma echoes; choose wisely, shape your world."

Michael Corthell

The law of cause and effect, often associated with the concept of karma, is a fundamental principle that governs the interconnectedness of actions and their consequences. It posits that every action, whether physical, mental, or emotional, produces a corresponding result or outcome.

According to this law, every cause sets into motion a chain of effects that reverberate throughout existence. Positive actions generate positive outcomes, while negative actions yield negative consequences. This principle applies to both individual actions and collective behaviors, influencing personal lives, relationships, and even societal dynamics.

Karma, derived from the Sanskrit word meaning "action" or "deed," refers to the accumulation of one's intentional actions and their impact on future experiences. It encompasses the notion that our actions in this life or previous lives shape our current circumstances and future destiny.

Karma is often depicted as a moral law of justice, where virtuous actions lead to happiness and well-being, while harmful actions result in suffering. It emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, intention, and accountability in shaping our individual and collective realities.

Ultimately, the law of cause and effect and karma remind us of the interconnectedness of all beings and the responsibility we hold in creating the world we inhabit. By cultivating positive intentions, engaging in compassionate actions, and being mindful of the consequences of our choices, we can strive to manifest a more harmonious and fulfilling existence.

Karma is a Sanskrit word meaning 'act', 'action', or 'word'.

The law of karma teaches us that all of our thoughts, words and actions begin a chain of cause and effect, and that we will personally experience the effects of everything we cause.

We may not experience the effect (the returning karma) right away, but you can count on it happening.

Karma is a cosmic, immutable law, which means that it applies to everyone, everywhere, all the time.

    Ralph Waldo Emerson had much to say about this law, and in fact, he describes the law of cause and effect as the law of laws. (also see his essay Compensation)

In a narrower sense, Karma is a theological concept found in the Buddhist and Hindu religions. It is the idea that how you live your life will determine the quality of life you will have after reincarnation. 

If you are unselfish, kind, and holy during this lifetime, you will be rewarded by being reincarnated (reborn into a new earthly body) into a pleasant life. However, if you live a life of selfishness and evil, you will be reincarnated into a less-than-pleasant lifestyle so that you may continue your learning journey(do it until you get it right!.

Karma is about getting back "from the universe" what you put into it. So, if you do something good for someone, karma will dictate that something good will happen to you and not directly related to the good act you performed.

Reaping what you sow is very similar and is about the consequences of your actions. If you are kind to someone, they may do something kind to you or to someone else, if you steal, you might go to jail, etc.

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The Journey of Karma | Joey Bui

What goes around comes around. That’s what they say, but what if your decisions today include thoughts of the past and future? What if what you do today goes on to affect someone else?
In her talk, Joey Bui will describe the journey of karma and why it remains crucial in today's complex world.

For a more in-depth study of cause and effect (Karma) go HERE