Understanding the Nature of Causality
“Arising from causes, happiness is obtained by virtues, and the fruit of their opposite ripens as suffering. Hence happiness and suffering are phenomena whose natural way of abiding is the inexorable causality. From now on I will strive in what should be adopted and what should be given up.”
This foundational quote encapsulates the Buddhist understanding of the law of karma—cause and effect—as the guiding principle behind all experiences of happiness and suffering. Just as the seeds we plant determine the crops we harvest, our actions—rooted in body, speech, and mind—shape our lives.
What is Karma? Not Just a Belief, But a Natural Law
Karma, a Sanskrit term meaning action, is often misunderstood as merely a religious belief. However, karma is not dependent on belief. If karma only existed for those who believed in it, it would cease to exist for non-believers—this is clearly not the case. Karma is a universal principle, like gravity, operating independently of one’s personal convictions.
Every action we commit—intentional or unintentional—creates a karmic imprint. Therefore, karma is the mechanism through which both suffering and happiness arise. The principle “As you sow, so shall you reap” mirrors this concept exactly.
Karma Functions at Both Gross and Subtle Levels
While understanding karma at the gross level is fairly accessible, its subtleties remain elusive. The infinite intricacies of karma can only be fully understood by a fully enlightened being, a Buddha. Even the most highly realized disciples like Shariputra, Maudgalyayana, and Mahakashyapa could not perceive karma in its deepest complexity.
In comparison, the concept of emptiness is easier to analyze and investigate using empirical logic and meditative insight. This highlights how profound and intricate the karmic law truly is.
The Story of Palkye: Karma Beyond Appearances
During the Buddha’s time, there lived a householder named Palkye, who was nearly 100 years old. Disrespected and neglected by his family, he grew despondent. Upon hearing about the benefits of ordination, he sought to become a monk.
Palkye approached several esteemed monks, including Shariputra, but was turned away due to his age and frail condition. His karmic potential was not visible to even these highly advanced disciples. Devastated, Palkye wept at the monastery gate.
Buddha, perceiving the hidden potential within Palkye with his omniscient wisdom, allowed him to be ordained. He instructed Maudgalyayana to guide and train Palkye. Through diligent practice and pure motivation, Palkye ultimately attained arhatship—a state of complete liberation.
This story demonstrates the Buddha’s profound awareness of the karmic potential and capacities of beings, even when obscured by external appearances.
Meditative Insight and Karma
The clearer and more focused our mind becomes through meditation, the better we can understand causality. Meditation not only refines our perception but also sharpens our insight into the chain of causes and conditions shaping our lives.
The Ten Nonvirtues: Causes of Suffering
At the gross level, karma manifests through ten nonvirtuous actions, categorized into three groups:
1. Nonvirtues of the Body
- Killing human beings or animals
- Stealing
- Sexual misconduct
2. Nonvirtues of the Speech
- Lying (especially about spiritual attainments)
- Divisive speech
- Harsh words
- Idle gossip
3. Nonvirtues of the Mind
- Covetousness
- Malicious intent
- Wrong view (especially denial of causality)
These actions are the direct causes of suffering, not only for individuals but also for societies at large—irrespective of spiritual belief or religious identity. Observing global conflicts, political tensions, or even household disputes reveals how these nonvirtues lead to widespread turmoil.
Practical Implication
Even those without spiritual aspirations benefit from ethical conduct. By avoiding these ten nonvirtues, individuals cultivate inner peace and contribute to social harmony.
The Ten Virtues: Pathways to Peace and Happiness
In contrast, the ten virtuous actions bring about peace and joy, both internally and externally:
1. Virtues of the Body
- Protecting life
- Practicing generosity
- Engaging in moral sexual conduct
2. Virtues of the Speech
- Speaking truthfully
- Creating harmony through speech
- Speaking gently and respectfully
- Speaking meaningfully
3. Virtues of the Mind
- Practicing contentment
- Cultivating loving-kindness and compassion
- Upholding wisdom and right view
These ten virtues act as a universal ethical code—a spiritual and secular constitution for world peace. Regardless of one’s background or beliefs, practicing these virtues ensures individual well-being and societal peace.
Why Understanding Karma Matters in Modern Times
Understanding karma is more than a religious practice—it is essential to becoming a responsible global citizen. Whether dealing with climate change, social injustice, or mental health crises, karma provides a framework for understanding the long-term consequences of our actions.
It empowers individuals to take personal responsibility and align actions with values that benefit both self and others.
The Role of Realized Masters and Ordinary Practitioners
Highly accomplished spiritual masters possess the insight to perceive karma and are therefore meticulous about their actions. Their superior ethical conduct stems from their awareness of the consequences. In contrast, ordinary beings often act out of ignorance, which leads to suffering.
However, the path of transformation is always open. Through study, reflection, and meditation, we can develop discernment. Knowing what to adopt (virtues) and what to abandon (nonvirtues) is the beginning of walking the path of Dharma.
Conclusion
Karma is not a matter of belief but of reality. By understanding and respecting the law of cause and effect, we can transform our lives. The practice of ethical conduct based on the ten virtues is the foundation for both personal happiness and global peace.
By taking responsibility for our actions and intentions, we not only become better individuals but also active contributors to a more compassionate and harmonious world.
Let us not just wish for peace, but create it—moment by moment, action by action.
FAQs
What is the Buddhist definition of karma?
Karma in Buddhism means intentional actions of body, speech, and mind that create causes for future experiences of happiness or suffering.
Are karma and fate the same?
No, karma is not fate. Karma is about cause and effect—our current actions shape our future, while fate implies predestination, which Buddhism does not teach.
What are the ten nonvirtues in Buddhism?
The ten nonvirtues are killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, divisive speech, harsh speech, idle talk, covetousness, malice, and wrong views.
How do the ten virtues lead to peace?
The ten virtues, such as kindness, truthfulness, and compassion, create harmony and reduce suffering for individuals and society, leading to peace.
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