Theory of Karman in Indian Thought

Author(s): Koshelya Walli
Publisher: Bharat Manisha

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PREFACE
The present book was originally a thesis for the degree of D. Litt. approved by the University of Allahabad. The book is entitled "Theory of Karman in Indian Thought." The subject is a very wide one, In this book an attempt has been made to study the subject in the light of the Sanskrit literature in main. Moreover, Pali and Prakṛta literature have been consulted in connection with Buddhism and Jainism.
The inequalities in life-in physical, intellectual and philosophical fields-made me to ponder over the various aspects of the word karman. How could the problem of suffering and diversity of human nature be solved? The solution to this great riddle made me desirous to go deep in the pros and cons of the word 'karman'. The doctrine is fully developed in the earlier Upanisads. In the Indian thought it has been combined with the doctrine of transmigration. The Jainas call for the extinction of karma as essential to the attainment of salvation. The Buddhists interpreted karma strictly in terms of ethical cause and effect.
The book starts with an introduction. Chapter I deals with Vedas and Dharmasastras to find out the mystery of karman. Chapter II describes karman in Agama and Tantra. Chapter III gives the concept of karman in the Epics. Chapter IV mentions karman in Purāņas. Chapter V gives the description of karma as found in various systems of Indian philosophy. Chapters VI and VII tell us respectively about karman in Buddhism and Jainism. Chapter IX is entitled "Critical Review." Chapter X includes the "Conclusion." Besides, Appendices are given.
I owe a deep debt of gratitude to my revered teacher Mm. Pt. Dr. Gopinath Kaviraj, Padmavibhushan, who is now no more