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THE THEORY OF KARMA - Q AND A Chapter 22 - The Theory of Karma - Q and A
In this chapter we shall discuss answers to some questions that usually come up regarding the theory of Karma.
Q.1: Do you mean to say that whatever situation we may be in, it is the result of our previous Karmas and that we can't do anything about it and we can't change it anyway?
A. In any present situation or circumstances, we may feel happy or unhappy. This feeling is due to the result of our past Karma. The happiness is due to past Punya Karma and unhappy feeling is due to past Pap Karma. However our present feeling behind our action constitutes new karma and that too is going to have its effects in future. Suppose, we are not financially well off. We may undertake a new business activity or find a better paying job. Undertaking any activities with a desire of accomplishment constitutes new karma. The new undertaking may turn out to be useful in improving our financial condition. In that case we have effectively changed the given situation and the result of the new Karma produces happiness within our self. However we have no knowledge of which Karma would exert its effects and at what time. Some karmas give an instant effect and some after a long time or even after many births.
Q.2: Can you shed some light on destiny (Prärabdha) vs. effort (Purushärtha) in light of the theory of Karma?
A. Karmas can be divided into three categories.
• Sanchit or accumulated Karmas : These Karmas are not currently operative. They are
like certificates of deposit. However, we know when our C.D. is going to mature but we never know when Sanchit Karmas are going to mature. Vartamän or present Karmas : We are currently acquiring these Karmas. They can
give effects immediately or later on. • Uday or operative Karmas : The consequences of these Karmas are currently destined
for us. They therefore constitute our destiny (Prärabdha).
Operative (Uday) Karmas thus constitute destiny (Prärabdha) and present (Vartamän) Karmas constitute effort (Purushärtha). By effort we are in a position to change our destiny, if our present (Vartamän) Karmas are going to be instantly fruitful. We can however never be sure of their instant fruitfulness. That is why our every endeavor does not necessarily succeed. Thus destiny and efforts are not at odds with each other. Rather, they are two sides of the same coin.
Q.3: The soul is conscious and Karmas are lifeless. How can lifeless matter modify the property of the soul, which is supposed to be pure, enlightened, and full of bliss?
A. There is no rule that a lifeless matter cannot influence conscious soul. We experience different types of sensations because we are alive. A dead body does not feel any sensation.
JAIN PHILOSOPHY AND PRACTICE I
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