What is the Sanskrit word for karma and what does it mean?
The Sanskrit word karma literally means action or doing. It derives from the verbal root krt, which translates to do, make, perform, or accomplish.
Questions about Karma in Buddhism
Short answers, pulled from the story.
How does Buddhism define intention in relation to karma?
The core Buddhist definition centers on intention known in Sanskrit as cetana. Actions driven by this mental factor lead to future consequences according to the Nibbedhika Sutta in the Anguttara Nikaya 6.63.
When did Vasubandhu compile the Abhidharma-kośa text about karma?
Vasubandhu compiled the Abhidharma-kośa in the 4th century to elaborate positions further regarding karma. Chapter four of his Kośa study focuses specifically on karma while chapters two and five discuss retribution mechanisms.
Why do Vajrayana traditions use meditation on Vajrasattva?
Meditation on Vajrasattva serves as a primary method for cleansing accumulated negative actions within Vajrayana traditions. The performer who purifies karma does not experience the negative results they otherwise would have faced.
What is the Western critique of how karma supports social passivity?
Western commentators argue karma may support social passivity or acquiescence facing various forms of oppression. Some scholars claim suffering like Holocaust victims could be attributed partially to karmic ripenings of those victims which is described as fundamentalism blaming victims.