A patient study of Karma, its philosophy, and tenets can lead to more understanding of this teaching.

1. A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO KARMA
by Chisato Motoi

2. Although many Westerners are familiar with popularized
definitions of Karma, most remain ignorant of its basic tenets. A
spiritual law that governs the human condition, Karma,
translated, means “action.” As opposed to fate, which implies a
passive acceptance by humans, the Law of Karma represents a
dynamic process of action and reaction.

3. In the moral sphere, Karma teaches that similar actions lead to
similar results. Wholesome, life-affirming actions yield
wholesome fruit. Unwholesome actions yield painful fruit. The
Buddha taught, however, that the relationship between the action
and its fruit may take a long time to appear.

4. Unwholesome actions can occur in three realms: mind, body, and
speech; they include killing, gossip, sexual misconduct, and
anger. The fruit of unwholesome actions can include
unhappiness in this life and rebirth into lower realms of
suffering. Wholesome actions yield positive fruit, such as wealth,
wisdom, and happiness. The intention of the person at the time
of the action determines the effect of the Karma.

5. A patient study of Karma, its philosophy, and tenets can lead to
more understanding of this teaching.
About Chisato Motoi: A student of Eastern religions and
philosophy, Chisato Motoi has devoted many years to the study
of Buddhism and Karma.