Published in ILLUMINATION
Sep 11, 2023 (Medium.com)
The concept of Karma in layman’s life.
The concept of Karma is beyond encryption.
Karma is a complex philosophical concept that cannot be depicted through a single image. However, certain symbols and visuals can help to convey its essence. These images are symbolic representations and may not capture the absolute depth of the concept of Karma.
We walk with our deeds, and Karma follows us like a visible or invisible shadow.
The concept is rooted in complex philosophical and spiritual traditions, and any visual representation should be approached with an understanding of its cultural significance and the perspectives of the traditions that hold it.
In simple terms, Karma is visualised as an act of the ripple effect on the water. This symbolises that every action creates a series of interconnected consequences.
The earliest appearance of the word “Karma” is found in the Rigveda. The Rigveda is one of the earliest and most sacred texts of ancient Indian literature and is considered one of the oldest texts known to humanity.
It is a collection of Sanskrit hymns composed by various spiritual poets/sages over a period. It is believed to have been composed over several centuries, with the oldest portions dating back to around 1500 BCE and the latest parts to around 1200 BCE.
Rigveda was transmitted orally for many generations before being eventually written down. The hymns are dedicated to various deities and natural forces and reflect the ancient period’s religious and cultural beliefs.
What is Karma?
The term “karma” is derived from the Sanskrit word. “Karma” means “action” or “deed.” In these belief systems,
Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where every action, whether physical, mental, or emotional, has consequences.
Karma is a concept that originates from various Indian religions and philosophies, mainly Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
The fundamental principle of Karma is that the choices and actions a person makes in life will impact future experiences. Positive actions generate positive Karma, leading to beneficial outcomes and happiness in the future, while negative actions result in negative Karma, leading to suffering or challenges.
If the deed is good, then Karma is good, similar to the bright reflection on the water, and if the deed is terrible, then there is darkness or unhappiness in life. This is a simple and yet straightforward analogy.
The concept of Karma also incorporates the idea of reincarnation, where the soul goes through a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (reincarnation). The accumulated Karma from past lives influences the circumstances and events of the present life.
The ‘afterlife or life after death’ is a mystery and another deep-rooted spiritual /metaphysical discussion. This is a secret to everyone during their lifetime.
Therefore, the philosophy behind rebirth is also faith.
However, the concept of suffering in the next life hinders a person from consciously making wrong actions in this life.
Karma is not just about rewards and punishments but also about learning and growth.
By experiencing the consequences of their actions, individuals could gain wisdom and spiritual development over the present life span (or multiple lifetimes, if any).
Karma is a central perception of life in many Eastern religions and philosophies. However, it may not be part of everyone’s belief in Western traditions and other worldviews.
Science works on the principle of observable, testable, and verifiable phenomena, and the concept of Karma falls far outside scientific explanation.
Therefore, it is essential to distinguish between beliefs rooted in faith, spirituality, or cultural traditions and those through scientific methods. The law of Karma is one of them.
As a physicist, I recognise the scientific explanation of Karma in simple words as an action and its equivalent reaction. This scientific enthusiasm drew me closer to theism from being an atheist.
In my early years in India, I could see the effect of this belief on people and how it made them conscious about their actions. (Sadly, many wrong activities do happen in countries where Karma is upheld).
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred Hindu scripture and is part of the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Its date of composition is believed to be around the 2nd century BCE.
Numerous scholars and philosophers have widely accepted it throughout history, inspiring countless people in their spiritual journey. It continues to be studied, recited, and revered by millions worldwide, making it a timeless and influential spiritual text. It is a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer and spiritual guide.
According to Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita,
The meaning of Karma is in the intention. The intention behind the action is what matters most.
Different individuals and cultures may interpret Karma in various ways, and its validity or relevance may vary from person to person based on their philosophical outlook.
Ultimately, the philosophy of Karma as a ‘Truth or Myth’ remains a matter of personal choice and faith, and your intellect can guide you.
The views in this article are personal, and I’m still a learner of the mystery of life.
Let us do good deeds and lead a peaceful life.
Tara Desai
…..
A sad incident led me to write this article. A few days ago, I received a telephone call that shook my ground. My tremor was so intense that I couldn’t speak, and I didn’t hear anything after that…….
My 51-year-old, well-established nephew passed away from a massive heart attack.
I had to speak to my sister-in-law, whom I love most, but I didn’t know what and how…., She is the most revered and beloved woman in my life at par with my mother. I have seen her like an angel, but why did this tragedy happen to her? I didn’t know what to say.
A very spiritual woman who is exceptionally kind to everyone lost her soulmate (my brother) and elder son a few years ago, and the remaining son passed away, leaving her in a boundless ocean of grief for the rest of her life. It was an unexplainable tragedy.
I geared my courage….
I called, and she picked up the phone; a faint-calm voice uttered; Yes, it was god’s desire, and he had to go….
With her words, I trembled again…..
She continued….. maybe I had the wrong Karma in my ‘last life’, and I need to suffer now….
I have seen her like an angel, but why did this tragedy fall on her?
I do not know what she said….but it made me think deeply about the philosophy of Karma, although I strongly believe in it.
Written by Tara Desai PhD
·Writer for ILLUMINATION
I love nature, sensitive literature, history, philosophy, travelling and scientific advances. I am a PhD in Nuclear Energy and always in search of knowledge.