Karma

It is true that we should not be bound by the linear and logical alone. Our reality can extend beyond that. But is it not add, that by observing all things knowable in the Universe that we can see, everything functions and reacts according to precise, physical laws and truths - Malcolm Graham (from Guru to God)

The word 'Karma' literally means action. It may appear that Karma is happening to us, as if some outside force is causing good things or bad things to come to us.

"There is a principle which is bar against all information, which is proof against all argument and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance - that principle is contempt prior to investigation." - Herbert Spencer

The 'Law of Karma' is the spiritual translation for 'Newton's Law of Motion'

"Each action causes an equal but opposite reaction. No difference between action and reaction. Cause is affect concealed and effect is cause revealed. When you know one - you know the other"

One might realise all karma is due to debt. Karma can occur between two individuals only if there is some bondage of debt between them.

The more you scheme and plot to snatch from others the farther you bind yourself down in karmas. The freer you are, accepting when it is given and giving when it is requested, the more of your sufferings are believed to be effaced.

A person performs actions and is remunerated. The fruits of the actions motivate him to perform actions again, and then again he is rewarded. It becomes a cycle: the fruit arises out of the action, and the action out of the fruit. From time immemorial, life has proceeded in this manner. This is called the wheel of karma. The law of karma is equally applicable to all.  Our past samskaras (sufferings: desires and aversions) are deeply rooted in the unconscious so these latent samskaras, or impressions, create various bubbles of thoughts that express themselves through our speech and behaviour.

It is possible for the aspirant to get freedom from these samskaras. Those who can burn these samskaras in the fire of non-attachment or through knowledge, are free from the bondage created by them.  It is like a burnt rope that has lost its binding power, though it still looks like a rope.

"Self-identification with one's actions converts them in to karmas by binding the ego down more tightly to the limited, temporary personality." - Rnanu Bandhara