Karma

Defined for Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism

Sanskrit for "deed."

Buddhism

In Buddhism and Zen Buddhism karma (or kamma) is created by body, mouth and mind (including intent) and is overcome by adherence to the Three Pure Precepts: cease evil, do good for others, and keep a pure mind. Only when one is free of delusion, hate, and desire is one free of the cause and effect of karma.

Hinduism

In Hinduism, the individual is completely responsible for the accumulation of samskaras (thoughts, impressions and attributes) over many lifetimes. There are three types:

• agami-karma concerns present causes and effects and which provides influence over the future through the present.
• prarabdha-karma is already caused and is in the process of being effected.
• sanchita-karma is accumulated but yet to be effected.

Jainism

In Jainism, a form of matter that can contaminate a soul and postpone its attaining Nirvana.

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