What Is the Law of Karma?

The Wisdom of Srila Prabhupada: Lesson 5

Question:

What is karma, and how does it affect our lives?

Answer:

Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where every action has a corresponding reaction. Śrīla Prabhupāda explains that the law of karma governs the material world, binding us to the cycle of birth and death based on our deeds.

Explanation:

The concept of karma is central to the teachings of the Bhagavad-gītā. Kṛṣṇa explains in the Bhagavad-gītā (4.17): karmāṇo hy api boddhavyaṁ boddhavyaṁ ca vikarmaṇaḥ akarmaṇaś ca boddhavyaṁ gahano karmaṇo gatiḥ—”The intricacies of action are very hard to understand. Therefore one should know properly what action is, what forbidden action is, and what inaction is.” This verse highlights the complexities of karma, inaction (akarma), and prohibited action (vikarma). Śrīla Prabhupāda taught that karma is not merely about good and bad deeds but about understanding our relationship with Kṛṣṇa.

Actions performed in accordance with Kṛṣṇa’s instructions, as outlined in the Bhagavad-gītā, free us from the binding effects of karma. On the other hand, selfish actions performed for personal gratification entangle us further in material existence. Śrīla Prabhupāda often compared the law of karma to a prison system—just as prisoners are punished or rewarded according to their actions, we too face reactions based on our deeds. However, Kṛṣṇa’s system of karma is ultimately merciful, designed to help us learn and grow spiritually.

By acting in devotion to Kṛṣṇa (bhakti-yoga), we transcend the law of karma entirely. Such actions are called akarma, or activities free from material reactions. Śrīla Prabhupāda emphasized that devotional service purifies the heart and liberates us from the repeated cycle of birth and death, enabling us to return to Kṛṣṇa’s eternal abode.

Suggested Reading:

For more on this subject, read Śrīla Prabhupāda’s Bhagavad-gītā As It Is, 4.17, including the purport. This verse and its explanation delve into the complexities of karma and how to act in a way that frees us from its bondage.