Religious studiesLesson 3 of 3 in the course Hinduism

Karma Across Traditions: Action, Intention, Rebirth, and Debate

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 4 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces karma as an idea about action, intention, and consequences. Understanding its different meanings helps avoid treating a complex religious concept as a simple slogan.

The Sanskrit word karma (Pali: kamma) can mean an action, work, or deed. In religious and philosophical contexts, it can also refer to the intention behind an action and to the consequences associated with it.

All flashcards

How do kriya and karma differ in one common contrast?
Kriya can describe activity, steps, and effort; karma can refer to the completed deed and the actor’s intention.
How do phala and saṃskāra differ in some karma accounts?
Phala is an experienced result; saṃskāra is an internal impression that can shape habits and perception.
What is cetanā in Buddhist accounts of karma?
Cetanā means intention; intentional actions of body, speech, or mind can have consequences.
How is karma understood distinctively in Jainism?
Jain teachings describe karmas as subtle matter that binds to the soul and affects rebirth.
How does karma relate to saṃsāra in many traditions?
Karma is often used to explain conditions or qualities of lives in the cycle of rebirth.

Quiz questions

  1. In Jain teaching, what does samvara describe?Answer: The stopping of karmic matter’s inflow
  2. What does karmavipāka refer to in Buddhist accounts?Answer: The ripening or maturation of karma
  3. Which Hindu philosophical school rejected karma and rebirth?Answer: Charvaka
  4. Which tradition describes karmas as subtle matter that binds to the soul?Answer: Jainism
  5. In some Buddhist traditions, what may be transferred?Answer: Merit

Based on the Wikipedia article Karma, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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