कर्म
Karma
(karma)Action; the universal law of cause and effect
Full Meaning
Karma literally means "action" or "deed." In Vedic philosophy, every intentional action creates a corresponding consequence — not as punishment, but as the natural physics of the moral universe. Good karma arises from actions aligned with dharma; bad karma from actions driven by ego, greed, or ignorance. Karma operates across lifetimes in Hindu belief.
Etymology
From the root kṛ (कृ) — to do, to make, to act. Karma is simply "that which is done."
Usage in Sanskrit Texts
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna teaches karma yoga — the yoga of selfless action. Act completely, without attachment to results, and karma becomes liberation rather than bondage.
कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते — You have the right only to action, never to its fruits. (Bhagavad Gita 2.47)
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