Have you ever wondered why certain events unfold the way they do? Why do some people face challenges despite doing good, while others seem to enjoy life without effort? The answer, according to Sanatan Dharma, lies in the profound principle of Karma—the universal law of cause and effect.
More than just a spiritual concept, Karma is the cosmic law that governs every action and its consequences, shaping not only our present but also our future lives.
What is Karma?
The word “Karma” comes from the Sanskrit root “Kri”, meaning to act or to do.
In its simplest form, Karma means “action.” But in deeper understanding, it refers to both action and its results.
In Sanatan Dharma, every thought, word, and deed leaves an imprint—not just in the outer world, but also in our inner being. These imprints shape our character, destiny, and the experiences we attract in this life and beyond.
The Law of Cause and Effect
The law of Karma states:
“As you sow, so shall you reap.”
Just as planting a seed leads to fruit, every action we take will bear results—either immediately or at some point in the future. This law is impartial and exact. It does not punish or reward—it simply reflects what we put into the world.
This includes:
- Positive actions → Positive outcomes (love, peace, success)
- Negative actions → Negative outcomes (conflict, suffering, setbacks)
Types of Karma
Sanatan Dharma explains three types of Karma:
- Sanchita Karma – The accumulated karma from all previous lives. Like a reservoir of past actions.
- Prarabdha Karma – The portion of past karma that is playing out in this current life.
- Kriyamana Karma – The actions you are performing right now, which will affect your future.
Your present life is influenced by your Prarabdha Karma, but how you respond now—your Kriyamana Karma—will shape your destiny.
Rebirth and Karma
Karma doesn’t end with this life. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that the soul (Atma) is eternal, and it carries its karma across lifetimes.
Just as a person changes clothes, the soul sheds bodies, but its karma follows until it is resolved. This is why understanding and purifying karma is essential for spiritual liberation (Moksha).
How to Work with Karma
Karma is not fate. It is not fixed. It is dynamic and changeable through conscious living.
You can transform your karma by:
- Practicing Dharma – Live with righteousness and purpose
- Selfless Service (Seva) – Do good without expecting rewards
- Devotion (Bhakti) – Surrender your actions to the Divine
- Meditation and Self-awareness – Heal old patterns and cultivate new ones
- Forgiveness and Compassion – Break cycles of negativity
