4 of 7

Write now Article Tools

Karma and reincarnation are twin concepts that contribute to the fundamental philosophies of Hinduism.

Karma, which means 'deed' or 'act' works by the principle of cause and effect. It has a scientific resonance in Sir Isaac Newton's study of energy where he theorised that every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. So, if you push against a wall, its molecules react in a way where the wall is pushing back at you with equal force - applied to the principle of karma, it embodies the idea that every mental and physical act returns to you with equal impact.

Extending the meaning of karma in a more spiritual light, the key of karmic wisdom states that the akashic memory in our chakras records the soul's impressions during its earthly lives. Ancient Yogis split karma into three categories:

1. Sanchita - sim of total of past karma yet to be resolved

2. Prarabdha - the portion of sanchita karma that is being experienced in present earthly life.

3. Kriyamana - the karma that is being created at present.

The concept is not however entirely unforgiving as, past negative karma can be altered through the loving heart-chakra, dharma and sadhana. In short, if you live a religious life, you will create positive karma for the future and ease any negative karma from the past. Understanding and/or believing in karma can answer the ever-asked question of "what did I do to deserve this?".

Karma is part of the cosmic law, and whilst God is the creator and preserver of this, it is not quite the case that He dispenses karma on an individual basis, as some may believe. It is preached that we create our own experiences. This ties in with another misconception of karma whereby it is often confused with fate, a belief that astronomical forces determine our unchangeable path of life.

Karma is intertwined with reincarnation as, when the time is right, the soul moves from one physical body and moves to a new one, one that best fits its karmic pattern. This entering into a new physical body is called reincarnation -'re-occupying the flesh', a process that governs the laws of the death process. Death to Hindus, is not seen as the end of existence, but the movement towards greater spiritual development. This affects two medical issues of life-support machines, which keep the physical body alive when it is otherwise dead, and also euthanasia, where people are allowed to kill themselves (aided) due to mercy evoked by their medical condition. They are sensitive issues as they intervene the transitional part of the death process - the way someone dies, is dependent on their karma. Euthanasia or wilful killing is regarded quite seriously in the karmic process as dying may be painful but death is not so, in ending your suffering, no matter how intolerable it is, means that the soul takes on prarabdha karma of the dying person, which will affect them in the future.

Back to reincarnation - in Hinduism, the purpose in life is not to be rich and successful, but to realise our identity with God. In living a spiritual life and meditating - an act which is believed to result in bursting into God's mind which is experienced through perfect bliss and silence, an individual soul will eventually be freed from the birth, death and rebirth cycle.

Learn more about this author, Sumantha Dutta.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Karma and reincarnation explained?
We want to hear your view. Write now!