Theme 3A : Karma & Reincarnation Flashcards
What is karma?
Karma is the fruits of action, the force that drives reincarnation. A hindus position in life is due to karma in past life.
What are the types of karma?
Sanchita Karma, Prarabdha Karma, Agami Karma.
What is Sanchita Karma?
Accumulated Karma - baggage karma from all past lives. This is the karmic debt which needs to be erased at some stage of existence to achieve liberation.
What is Prarabdha Karma?
Fruit bearing Karma - The portion of accumulated karma that appears as a particular problem in the present life.
What is Agami Karma?
Karma in the making - This is the karma that will come into play in the future.
What is Moksha Patamu?
Ancient indian game used to teach children about karma and liberation.
What are the 4 main aims in life?
Dharma, Kama, Moksha & Artha.
What is Dharma?
Living in an appropriate way. Doing what is right for the individual family and caste. Following one’s dharma is necessary to sustain cosmic order & going against dharma results in bad karma.
What is Artha?
The pursuit of wealth through lawful means. Instead of condemning material aspects of life, Indian culture has given it a specific place as part of religious goals. The householder was expected to work for material gain to provide for his household.
What is Kama?
Delight of the senses. Part of the second ashrama & is encouraged for the householder. The right experience of pleasure creates a well developed character. It is seen as good preparation for the souls devotion to God. Longing and loving adoration has always been a mark of religious aspirations.
What is Moksha?
Release from rebirth. The ultimate aim for Hindus. Each time a soul is born into a better life it has the opportunity to improve itself further. When the soul attains moksha it loses individual identity and becomes part of Brahman. Some Hindus believe the soul & God are eternally distinct and merging is only apparent. It appears to have merged but retains its separate identity.
