Karma: Seeds and Results

There is much discussion about karma in the Lam Rim Chen Mo, but the important thing we need to remember is that the results of every action are certain. Whatever karma we have created bears similar results. This does not mean that every karma has to bear a result, for there are modifying conditions; we can spoil the seeds. For instance, although we may commit a negative action, we can confess to purify that action and make that seed impotent. Thus, it is said that there is no negative action that cannot be cleansed with the four antidotes or four opponent powers of purification.

We must also realize that any action we have committed, whether virtuous or non-virtuous, will keep on multiplying and compounding day after day. Once we realize this, we can learn to purify every negativity we have committed on that day. We cannot simply afford to let it continue because if we do, even a minute negative action can become huge after some time. We fall into the depth of the negativities if we let a single small one go by. Moreover, we need to recognize that if we haven't commited a particular action -- whether a virtuous or non-virtuous one -- we will not receive the result or face the consequences. To experience the result, we must commit the action ourselves. For instance, the karma created by Tashi would not bear fruit on Ngodrup, nor would the karma created by Ngodrup bear its results on Tashi. Tashi and Ngodrup are two different people.

Geshe Tsultim Gyeltsen, Keys to Great Enlightenment

tags technorati : karma religion Buddhism quotations

Comments

[sal]

thank you for continuing to speak on karma. i feel in these days, where buddhism often fits a 'fad', there is a great lack of understanding of the real meaning and intent of the doctrine of karma. too many times do i hear 'pop culture karma', versions that have little relevance to the buddhas teaching.

[mahala]

I really appreciate your comment, Sal. It's unfortunate that once something is appropriated as part of the cool culture, the profound meaning and value gets lost amidst the buzzwords. It drives me faintly crazy sometimes. Mainly, I am concerned that people with genuine interest won't know where to find the real teachings. Just try a search on "karma." Sigh.