essay about good karma

• History & Society
• Science & Tech
• Biographies
• Animals & Nature
• Geography & Travel
• Arts & Culture
• Games & Quizzes
• On This Day
• One Good Fact
• New Articles
• Lifestyles & Social Issues
• Philosophy & Religion
• Politics, Law & Government
• World History
• Health & Medicine
• Browse Biographies
• Birds, Reptiles & Other Vertebrates
• Bugs, Mollusks & Other Invertebrates
• Environment
• Fossils & Geologic Time
• Entertainment & Pop Culture
• Sports & Recreation
• Visual Arts
• Demystified
• Image Galleries
• Infographics
• Top Questions
• Britannica Kids
• Saving Earth
• Space Next 50
• Student Center

Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

• Seoul National University Library - Theory of Karma and its kinds - Jainism
• World History Encyclopedia - Karma
• IndiaNetzone - Karma
• WebMD - What is Karma?
• Humanities LibreTexts - Karma
• Academia - Karma
• Buddhanet - The Theory of Karma
• Healthline - What Are the 12 Laws of Karma?

karma , in Indian religion and philosophy , the universal causal law by which good or bad actions determine the future modes of an individual’s existence. Karma represents the ethical dimension of the process of rebirth ( samsara ), belief in which is generally shared among the religious traditions of India. Indian soteriologies (theories of salvation ) posit that future births and life situations will be conditioned by actions performed during one’s present life—which itself has been conditioned by the accumulated effects of actions performed in previous lives. The doctrine of karma thus directs adherents of Indian religions toward their common goal: release ( moksha ) from the cycle of birth and death. Karma thus serves two main functions within Indian moral philosophy: it provides the major motivation to live a moral life, and it serves as the primary explanation of the existence of evil.

Derived from the Sanskrit word karman , meaning “act,” the term karma carried no ethical significance in its earliest specialized usage. In ancient texts (1000–700 bce ) of the Vedic religion , karma referred simply to ritual and sacrificial action. As the priestly theology of sacrifice was articulated by Brahman priests over the following centuries, however, ritual action came to be regarded as effective by itself, independent of the gods. Karma as ritual functioned autonomously and according to a cosmic ritual law.

The earliest evidence of the term’s expansion into an ethical domain is provided in the Upanishads , a genre of the Vedas (sacred scriptures) concerned with ontology , or the philosophical study of being. In the middle of the 1st millennium bce , the Vedic theologian Yajnavalkya expressed a belief that later became commonplace but was considered new and esoteric at the time: “A man turns into something good by good action and into something bad by bad action.” Although within the Vedic ritual tradition “good action” and “bad action” may have included both ritual and moral acts, this moral aspect of karma increasingly dominated theological discourse, especially in the religions of Buddhism and Jainism , which emerged about the middle of the 1st millennium bce . Both of these religions embraced ascetic modes of life and rejected the ritual concerns of the Brahman priests.

The connection between the ritual and moral dimensions of karma is especially evident in the notion of karma as a causal law, popularly known as the “law of karma.” Many religious traditions —notably the Abrahamic religions that emerged in the Middle East ( Judaism , Christianity , and Islam )—place reward and punishment for human actions in the hands of a divine lawgiver. In contrast, the classical traditions of India—Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, much like the Vedic sacrificial theology that preceded them—view karma as operating according to an autonomous causal law. No divine will or external agent intervenes in the relationship of the moral act to its inevitable result. The law of karma thus represents a markedly nontheistic theodicy , or explanation of why there is evil in the world.

Once a divine judge is taken out of the equation, a new question arises: within a causal sequence, how can an act produce an effect at a future time far removed from the act’s performance? Different Indian moral philosophies provide different answers, but all acknowledge some kind of karmic residue resulting from the initial act. Jainism, for example, regards karma as a fine particulate substance that settles on the soul ( jiva ) of one who commits immoral actions or has immoral thoughts, making it impure and heavy and miring it in the material world of rebirth. The Vedic ritualistic tradition that preceded Hinduism contributed the concept of the apurva , the latent potency created within the soul by ritual and moral actions. Much like a seed, an apurva sprouts into new realities in the distant future. Other traditions—e.g., Yoga and Buddhism—provide psychological explanations in which karmic residue produces dispositional tendencies ( samskara s) and psychological traces ( vasana s) that determine the future births and personality traits of an individual. Each of these examples demonstrates how the concept of karma provided a bridge between cause and effect separated by time.

The doctrine of karma implies that one person’s karma cannot have an effect on another person’s future. Yet, while karma is in theory specific to each individual, many aspects of Indian religions reflect the widely held belief that karma may be shared. For example, the doctrine of the transfer of merit , whereby one person can transfer his good karma to another, is found in both Buddhism and Hinduism. Ancestral offerings and other rituals for the departed show that acts done by the living are believed to influence the well-being of the dead. Finally, pious activities, including pilgrimages , are often performed for the benefit of living or deceased relatives.

Buddhism and Karma

Introduction to the Buddhist Understanding of Karma

Ganymede Photography/Getty Images

• Origins and Developments
• Figures and Texts
• Becoming A Buddhist
• Tibetan and Vajrayana Buddhism
• B.J., Journalism, University of Missouri

Karma is a word everyone knows, yet few in the West understand what it means. Westerners too often think it means "fate" or is some kind of cosmic justice system. This is not a Buddhist understanding of karma, however.

Karma is a Sanskrit word that means "action." Sometimes you might see the Pali spelling, kamma , which means the same thing. In Buddhism, karma has a more specific meaning, which is volitional or willful action. Things we choose to do or say or think set karma into motion. The law of karma is therefore a law of cause and effect as defined in Buddhism . 

Sometimes Westerners use the word karma to mean the result of karma. For example, someone might say John lost his job because "that's his karma." However, as Buddhists use the word, karma is the action, not the result. The effects of karma are spoken of as the "fruits" or the "result" of karma.

Teachings on the laws of karma originated in Hinduism, but Buddhists understand karma somewhat differently from Hindus.  The historical Buddha lived 26 centuries ago in what are now Nepal and India, and on his quest for enlightenment he sought out Hindu teachers. However, the Buddha took what he learned from his teachers in some very new and different directions.

The Liberating Potential of Karma

Theravada Buddhist teacher Thanissaro Bhikkhu explains some of these differences in this illuminating essay on karma . In the Buddha's day, most religions of India taught that karma operated in a simple straight line- past actions influence the present; present actions influence the future. But to Buddhists, karma is non-linear and complex. Karma, the Ven. Thanissaro Bhikku says, "acts in multiple feedback loops, with the present moment being shaped both by past and by present actions; present actions shape not only the future but also the present."

Thus, in Buddhism, although the past has some influence on the present, the present also is shaped by the actions of the present. Walpola Rahula explained in What the Buddha Taught (Grove Press, 1959, 1974) why this is significant:

"...instead of promoting resigned powerlessness, the early Buddhist notion of karma focused on the liberating potential of what the mind is doing with every moment. Who you are — what you come from — is not anywhere near as important as the mind's motives for what it is doing right now. Even though the past may account for many of the inequalities we see in life, our measure as human beings is not the hand we've been dealt, for that hand can change at any moment. We take our own measure by how well we play the hand we've got."

What You Do Is What Happens to You

When we seem stuck in old, destructive patterns, it may not be the karma of the past that's causing us to be stuck. If we're stuck, it's more likely that we're re-creating the same old patterns with our present thoughts and attitudes. To change our karma and change our lives, we have to change our minds. Zen teacher John Daido Loori said, "Cause and effect are one thing. And what is that one thing? You. That’s why what you do and what happens to you are the same thing."

Certainly, the karma of the past impacts your present life, but change is always possible.

No Judge, No Justice

Buddhism also teaches that there are other forces besides karma that shape our lives. These include natural forces such as the changing seasons and gravity. When a natural disaster such as an earthquake strikes a community, this is not some kind of collective karmic punishment. It's an unfortunate event that requires a compassionate response, not judgment.

Some people have a hard time understanding karma is created by our own actions. Perhaps because they are raised with other religious models, they want to believe there is some kind of mysterious cosmic force directing karma, rewarding good people and punishing bad people. This is not the position of Buddhism. Buddhist scholar Walpola Rahula said,

"The theory of karma should not be confused with so-called 'moral justice' or 'reward and punishment'. The idea of moral justice, or reward and punishment, arises out of the conception of a supreme being, a God, who sits in judgment, who is a law-giver and who decides what is right and wrong. The term 'justice' is ambiguous and dangerous, and in its name more harm than good is done to humanity. The theory of karma is the theory of cause and effect, of action and reaction; it is a natural law, which has nothing to do with the idea of justice or reward and punishment."

The Good, the Bad and the Karma

Sometimes people talk about "good" and "bad" (or "evil") karma. Buddhist understanding of "good" and "evil" is somewhat different from the way Westerners usually understand these terms. To see the Buddhist perspective, it's useful to substitute the words "wholesome" and "unwholesome" for "good" and "evil." Wholesome actions spring from selfless compassion, loving-kindness and wisdom. Unwholesome actions spring from greed, hate, and ignorance. Some teachers use similar terms, such as "helpful and unhelpful," to convey this idea. 

• Karma and Rebirth

The way most people understand reincarnation is that a soul, or some autonomous essence of self, survives death and is reborn into a new body. In that case, it's easy to imagine the karma of a past life sticking to that self and being carried over to a new life. This is largely the position of Hindu philosophy, where it is believed that a discrete soul is reborn again and again. But Buddhist teachings are very different.

The Buddha taught a doctrine called anatman , or anatta — no soul, or no self. According to this doctrine, there is no "self" in the sense of a permanent, integral, autonomous being within an individual existence. What we think of as our self, our personality and ego, are temporary creations that do not survive death.

In light of this doctrine — what is it that is reborn? And where does karma fit in?

When asked this question, the renowned Tibetan Buddhist teacher Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, borrowing concepts from modern psychological theory, said that what gets reborn is our neurosis — meaning that it is our karmic bad habits and ignorance that gets reborn — until such time as we awaken fully. The question is a complex one for Buddhists, and not one for which there is a single answer. Certainly, there are Buddhists that believe in literal rebirth from one life to the next, but there are also others who adopt a modern interpretation, suggesting that rebirth refers to the repetitious cycle of bad habits we may follow if we have an insufficient understanding of our true natures. 

Whatever interpretation is offered, though, Buddhists are united in the belief that our actions affect both current and future conditions, and that escape from the karmic cycle of dissatisfaction and suffering is possible. 

• The Dhammapada
• Sadayatana: The Six Sense Organs and Their Objects
• The Five Remembrances
• What Buddha Didn't Say About God
• Anatman: The Teaching of No Self
• Reincarnation Without Souls?
• Samskara or Sankhara
• Buddhist Hell
• Definition of the Buddhist Term: "Skandha"
• Rebirth and Reincarnation in Buddhism
• The Five Skandhas
• The Metta Sutta: A Beloved Buddhist Teaching
• The Second Precept of Buddhism: Not Stealing
• Proselytization and Buddhism
• The Search for Original Buddhism

Essay on Karma

Students are often asked to write an essay on Karma in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Karma

Understanding karma.

Karma is a concept originating from ancient India. It’s about the law of cause and effect. Simply put, it means that what you do will eventually come back to you.

Karma in Daily Life

In daily life, karma can be seen in how our actions affect our lives. If we help others, good things tend to happen to us. If we hurt others, we may face negative consequences.

The Importance of Karma

Understanding karma teaches us to be responsible for our actions. It encourages us to act positively, leading to a better life and a better world.

250 Words Essay on Karma

Karma, a concept deeply rooted in various Eastern philosophies, is commonly understood as the principle of cause and effect. It suggests that our actions, whether good or bad, inevitably return to us in some form, creating a cycle of action and consequence.

The Mechanics of Karma

Karma and personal growth.

The concept of karma encourages self-awareness and introspection. It prompts us to critically evaluate our actions and their potential consequences before we act. By doing so, we can strive to make choices that generate positive karma, fostering personal growth and contributing to collective well-being.

Karma in the Modern World

In the contemporary context, karma serves as a moral compass, guiding individuals towards ethical actions. It underscores the interconnectedness of all beings, urging us to act responsibly and compassionately. The belief that our actions will return to us may deter harmful behaviors and promote acts of kindness and generosity.

In conclusion, karma is a profound philosophical construct that encourages mindfulness, responsibility, and personal growth. It is a reminder that we are not isolated entities but integral parts of a complex web of life, where our actions reverberate beyond our immediate surroundings.

500 Words Essay on Karma

Karma, a concept rooted in various Eastern religions, is often understood as a cosmic principle of cause and effect. It’s an intricate system where actions and intentions are believed to influence the future, either in this life or a subsequent one. The essence of karma is that every action has consequences, and these consequences are not merely inflicted by an external force but are a direct result of the actions themselves.

Karma in Different Religions

In Hinduism, karma is a fundamental doctrine, closely linked with the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The law of karma dictates that every action, thought, or decision one makes in their life will somehow influence their future lives.

In Jainism, karma is seen as a physical substance that clings to the soul, affecting its ability to reach liberation. The type and intensity of karma depend on the nature of the actions performed.

The Philosophical Implications of Karma

The concept of karma has profound philosophical implications. It introduces a moral dimension to the universe, suggesting that ethical conduct is not only a social necessity but also a cosmic one. It’s seen as a self-regulating system that maintains moral equilibrium, providing a sense of justice and fairness.

Karma and Modern Perspectives

In the modern world, karma is often misinterpreted as a form of divine retribution. However, its true essence is far from this simplified understanding. Karma is not about punishment or reward; it’s about understanding the interconnectedness of all things and the consequences of our actions.

The concept of karma has also found resonance in scientific fields. In psychology, the idea that our actions and intentions can shape our future aligns with the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy. In physics, the law of action and reaction bears a striking resemblance to the law of karma.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Doctrine of Karma: Understanding Action and Consequence

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered why certain things happen to you? Is it mere coincidence, or is there an underlying principle guiding these events? In Indian philosophy, the concept of Karma offers an answer to these questions. Karma is not just a word; it’s a philosophy, a moral compass, and a way to understand life’s complexities.

The fundamentals of Karma

Karma, a Sanskrit term, literally means ‘action’ or ‘deed’. However, it transcends the simplicity of action to encompass the consequences that follow. It’s a cornerstone concept in Indian ethics, suggesting that every action we take has a corresponding effect, not just in this life but across multiple lifetimes. The beauty of this doctrine lies in its simplicity and the profound truth that personal responsibility shapes our destiny.

Decoding the types of Karma

In the vast ocean of Indian philosophy, Karma is categorized into four distinct types – each with its own role in the tapestry of life.

Sanchita Karma : The Accumulated Deeds

Sanchita Karma is the sum of all past actions waiting to bear fruit. It’s like a reservoir of seeds that have been planted over various lifetimes and are waiting to sprout. Think of it as your cosmic bank account where every action you’ve ever taken is a deposit, accumulating interest over time.

Prarabdha Karma : The Fruit Bearing Deeds

Prarabdha Karma refers to a portion of Sanchita Karma that has ‘ripened’ and is playing out in your current life. It’s akin to destiny – certain events are preordained, based on your past actions. It’s the script of your life’s play, already written, and now being enacted.

Kriyamana Karma : The Current Actions

Kriyamana Karma is the immediate karma we create with our current actions. It’s in our control and directly shapes our present and future. It’s the real-time scriptwriting of your life where you’re both the author and the protagonist.

Agami Karma : The Future Actions

Agami Karma is the future karma that stems from your current deeds. It’s the seeds you’re planting today that will blossom in the future. Your present actions are like an investment that will yield results, good or bad, in times to come.

Action and consequence: The inseparable duo

The doctrine of Karma emphasizes the inseparability of action and its outcome. It’s a moral law of cause and effect that doesn’t just govern your physical actions, but also your words and thoughts. Every thought you nurture, every word you speak, and every action you take is like throwing a pebble into the pond of the universe, creating ripples that eventually come back to you.

Shaping destiny: The role of Karma

Karma doesn’t imply fatalism; rather, it empowers. The doctrine suggests that while we may not have control over the Prarabdha Karma that’s currently unfolding, we have the power to shape our destiny through Kriyamana and Agami Karma. It’s a call to live with mindfulness and integrity, knowing that our present actions are drafting the blueprint of our future.

Karma in daily life: Practical implications

Understanding Karma can transform how we approach our daily lives. It encourages ethical behavior, compassion, and empathy. When we know that our actions will come back to us, we’re more likely to act positively and contribute to a healthier society. It’s the ultimate reminder that while we can’t control everything, we can control ourselves.

The doctrine of Karma is not just a philosophical concept; it’s a practical guide for living. By understanding the types of Karma and the power of our actions, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater awareness and purpose. The law of Karma teaches us that we are the architects of our fate, and through our deeds, we can craft a destiny that’s aligned with our highest aspirations.

What do you think? How does the concept of Karma influence your daily decisions? Do you believe in the power of actions to shape your future?

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Submit Comment

Indian Philosophy

1 Nature of Philosophy and Characteristics of Indian Philosophy

• Metaphysics
• Logic and Epistemology
• Ethics or Moral Philosophy
• Characteristics of Indian Philosophy
• Special Features of Indian Philosophy

2 Introduction to Vedas and Upanisads

• Vedas and Its Contents
• A General Survey of the Vedic Literature
• Some Important Vedic Concepts – I
• Some Important Vedic Concepts – II

3 Introduction to Tirukkural

• Philosophical Insights of Tirukkural
• Moral Philosophy of Tiruvalluvar
• Social Philosophy of Tiruvalluvar
• Political Philosophy of Tiruvalluvar

4 Introduction to Epics, Puranas and Bhagavat Gita

• Itihasas – Epics
• Ethical Insights of Epics
• Political Thought in Epics
• Eighteen Puranas
• Bhagavat Gita
• Idea of God in Gita
• Three Margas in Gita
• Path of Bhakti as means to Liberation
• Origin of the School
• The Literary Sources of Carvakas/Lokayatas
• Epistemology
• Metaphysics of Carvakas
• Carvakas Views on God and Religion
• Ethics of Carvakas

6 Buddhism – I

• Four Noble Truths
• Philosophical Pre-suppositions

7 Buddhism – II

• Main Schools In Hinayana (Early) Tradition
• Vaibhasika (Sarvastivada) School
• Sautrantika School
• Main Schools In Mahayana Tradition
• Madhyamaka (Sunyavada) School
• Yogacara (Vijnanavada) School

8 Nyaya – Vaisesika

• Nyaya and Vaisesika
• Nyaya Theory of Knowledge
• Nyaya Theory of Causation
• Nyaya Concept of God
• Vaisesika Concept of Padartha or Category
• Vaisesika on Atoms and Creation
• Bondage and Liberation
• Theory of causation
• Theory of knowledge
• Modifications of Chitta
• Chitta Bhumi
• Kinds of Klesas
• Ashtanga Yoga
• Place of God in Yoga
• Eight Siddhis
• Theory of Knowledge
• Mimamsa Theory of Error
• Theory of Reality
• Theory of Soul

12 Advaita Vedanta

• Brahman and Atman
• Avidya and Maya
• Karya and Karana (effect and cause)
• Attaining Liberation through Knowledge

13 Visistadvaita

• Philosophy of Visistadvaita: An Overview
• Jivas or Individual Souls
• The Means of Liberation

14 Dvaita Vedanta

• Dvaita: its Notion and Meaning
• General Philosophy of Madhva
• Metaphysics of Dvaita Vedanta

15 Saivism and Vaisnavism

• Origin of Saiva Religion and Philosophy
• Schools of Saivism
• Saiva Siddhanta
• Siddhanta Concept of God and Soul
• Siddhanta Concept of Bondage and Liberation
• Sources of Vaishnava Religion and Philosophy
• Vaishnava Epistemology and Metaphysics
• Vaishnava Concept of God and Soul

16 Logic and Epistemology

• Carvaka Epistemology
• Jaina Logic and Epistemology
• Buddhist Epistemology
• Nyaya-Vaisesika Epistemology
• Samkhya-Yoga Epistemology
• Purva Mimamsa Epistemology
• Vedanta Epistemology

17 Indian Metaphysics

• Indian Materialism (Carvaka)
• Realism of Nyaya-Vaisesika
• Realism of the Sautrantika and Vaibhasika
• Realism of Mimamsa
• Dualistic Metaphysics of Samkhya
• Realistic Relativistic Pluralism of Jainism
• Idealism of Vijnanavada and Madhyamika
• Non-dualistic Absolutism (Advaita)
• Non-dualism of the Qualified Whole (Visistadvaita)
• Dualistic Absolutism of Madhvacarya

18 Indian Ethics

• Vedic and Vedantic Schools of Ethics
• Doctrine of Karma
• Transmigration of Soul
• Supreme Goals (purusharthas)
• Social Stratification (varnashrama dharma)
• Ethics in Buddhism
• Ethics in Jainism
• Hedonism in Ethics of Carvaka

19 Indian Aesthetics

• Bharata’s Rasa-Theory

20 Swami Vivekananda and Muhammad Iqbal

• The philosophy of Vivekananda
• God, Cosmos, and Human Person
• Yoga – the ways of realisation
• Towards universal religion
• The Philosophy of Muhammad Iqbal
• Concept of Self
• His Concept of God
• The Nature of the World
• Human Destiny

21 Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore

• Gandhi: Life Influence and Basic Philosophy
• God and Truth
• Nature of the World
• Concept of Human Person
• Social and Political Philosophy
• Tagore: Life and Basic Thought
• Search for the Absolute and Nature of the World
• Philosophy of Human Person
• Tagore’s Religious Thoughts

22 Aurobindo and S. Radhakrishnan

• Life and the Works of Sri Aurobindo
• The Transcendental Reality in Aurobindo’s Thought
• Nature of Creation: The World-Process
• Man in Terms of Evolution
• Reality and Its Aspects
• Synthesis of Yoga
• Radhakrishnan’s Life and Works
• The Absolute or the Brahman
• The Nature of the World And Creation
• Human Being And the Nature of Soul
• His Religious and Political Thought

23 B.R Ambedkar and Raimundo Panikkar

• Ambedkar’s Life and Works
• Influence and Background to His Thoughts
• Ambedkar’s Social Thought
• Ambedkar’s Political Philosophy
• His Attitude to Religion
• Life and Works of Raimundo Panikkar
• Philosophy Culture and Interculturality
• Multi-Faith Dialogue and Dialogical Dialogue
• The Interconnectedness of the Divine Human and Nature

Share on Mastodon

• PRESS RELEASES
• Explore all the ways you can support HAF’s mission.
• Advocate for the Hindu American community. Visit our Advocacy center.
• Speak about Hindu Dharmas more confidently. Register for a Dharma Ambassadors class.
• Join us for an in-person or online event, briefing, or webinar.
• Reporter’s Guide to the Swastika
• Reporter’s Guide to Caste
• Correcting Media Portrayals of Hinduism
• Hindutva & Hindu Nationalism
• Q&A on Hinduism
• Podcast: That’s So Hindu
• Podcast: All About Hinduism
• Hinduism 101
• Hinduism Basics
• Hinduphobia Guide
• All About the Swastika

Diwali Toolkit

• How-to Resources for Parents
• Holiday Calendar
• Professional Development Services
• Curriculum Reform
• Bullying Prevention
• Teaching Resources
• Women’s Rights
• Immigration
• Hate Crimes
• I am Hindu American
• Shakti Initiative
• Defending Human Rights
• Hindu Roots of Yoga
• Hindu American Awareness & Appreciation Month
• 1971 Bengali Hindu Genocide
• Religious Liberty
• LGBTQ Rights
• Intl Religious Freedom
• Environment
• Free Speech
• Advisory Committee & National Leadership Council
• Staff & Board

Karma: Helping us live on good terms with life

TELL US WHAT YOU'RE INTERESTED IN

• Email Address *
• * Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini (Swaziland) Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• Get toolkits and learning guides on Hindu holidays and festivals that you can use at home and take to the classroom; Podcasts, animated videos, and blogs will keep you up to date on all things Hindu.
• For the advocate who wants to stay abreast of and take action on policy issues that impact Hindu Americans.
• As Hinduism’s spiritual homeland, India will always be relevant to HAF. Stay up to speed on relevant issues relating to India and its neighboring countries. And receive our Hindu Human Rights country reports.
• India & Global Affairs
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

PRIVACY POLICY  | FINANCIALS  | SOLICITATION DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

Hindu American Foundation 910 Seventeenth Street NW, Suite 315 Washington, DC 20006 T: (202) 223-8222 | F: (202) 223-8004

General inquiries: [email protected] Media inquiries: [email protected]

Hindu American Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All content © 2003-2023 Hindu American Foundation. EIN: 68-0551525

Website by Mittun

Promoting dignity, mutual respect, and pluralism.

Explore ancient wisdom and modern perspectives in Hinduism.

Start your search.

Hinduism is often referred to as Sanatana Dharma (the ‘eternal way’), indicating the religion’s emphasis on eternal truths that are applicable to all of humanity. Thus, it makes sense that a medley of mainstream movies could convey Hindu ideals that resonate strongly with audiences, while not actually talking directly about anything understood by the public as Hindu.

In Groundhog Day, for example, when cynical TV weatherman Phil Collins discovers he is trapped in a time loop, living the same day over and over, only to be released after transforming his character from an egocentric narcissist to a thoughtful and kindhearted philanthropist, it’s hard not to be reminded of the Hindu notion of samsara, a cycle of reincarnation from which a soul attains liberation by realizing its divine nature after lifetimes of spiritual practice. 

Or in The Matrix when Neo chooses the red pill of knowledge over the blue pill of ignorance, and is subsequently unplugged from an illusory world and cast into the truth of reality, the film seems to be conveying a foundational Vedic teaching: that we must transcend our own ignorance — a product of maya, literally meaning “illusion” in Sanskrit — to uncover our true nature. Hindu concepts appear to be further exhibited in Neo’s relationship with Morpheus, which starkly reflects that of a disciple and guru, as the latter reveals to the former the knowledge he needs in order to understand this “true nature.” As Neo’s faith in Morpheus’ words develops, so does his capacity to see past the illusion of the matrix, garnering him the ability to manipulate the laws of this false reality, similar to the Jedi and yogis described earlier.

What do the Matrix, Avatar, Groundhog Day, and Star Wars have to do with Hinduism?

Hindu Americans and the Vedanta philosophy have significantly influenced notable intellectuals such as Henry  David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Walt Whitman, J.D. Salinger, Christopher Isherwood, Aldous Huxley, Huston Smith, and Joseph Campbell just to name a few. Some feel that it started back In 1812, when Thomas Jefferson recommended to John Adams the writings of Joseph Priestley, a Unitarian minister who had published works that compared Christianity to other religions — Hinduism in particular — Adam’s interest was piqued.

Going through Priestley’s writings, Adams became riveted by Hindu thought, as he launched into a five-year exploration of Eastern philosophy. As his knowledge of Hinduism and ancient Indian civilization grew, so did his respect for it. This legacy took shape in the 1830s as Transcendentalism, a philosophical, social, and literary movement that emphasized the spiritual goodness inherent in all people despite the corruption imposed on an individual by society and its institutions. Espousing that divinity pervades all of nature and humanity, Transcendentalists believed divine experience existed in the everyday, and held progressive views on women’s rights, abolition, and education. At the heart of this movement were three of America’s most influential authors: Ralph Waldo Emerson, Walt Whitman, and Henry David Thoreau.

How Hinduism Influenced Some of Americans Greatest Thinkers

Before becoming an Islamic state, Afghanistan was once home to a medley of religious practices, the oldest being Hinduism. A long time ago, much of Afghanistan was part of an ancient kingdom known as Gandhara, which also covered parts of northern Pakistan.Today, many of Afghanistan’s province names, though slightly altered, are clearly Sanskrit in origin, hinting at the region’s ancient past. To cite a few examples, Balkh comes from the Sanskrit Bhalika, Nangarhar from Nagarahara, and Kabul from Kubha. Though Gandhara’s earliest mention can be found in the Vedas, it is better known for its connections to the Hindu epics the Mahabharata and Ramayana. There is also the historic Asamai temple in Kabul located on a hill named after the Hindu Goddess of hope, Asha. The temple has survived numerous conflicts and attacks but it still stands. The temple is a remnant from Hindu Shahi Kings, who ruled from the Kabul Valley as far back as 850 CE. However, Hindus are indigenous but endangered minorities in Afghanistan, numbering approximately 700 out of a community that recently included over 8,000 members. Many have left for new homes, include in New York which is home to a large Afghani Hindu population.

5 Things to Know about Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan 

Hinduism Beyond India: Afghanistan

According to the 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey, 70% of U.S. households (90.5 million homes) owned a pet as of 2022, with 69 million U.S. households having a pet dog. Recognized for their loyalty, service, companionship, and the special relationship they have with humans, Hinduism’s reverence for dogs is expansive, as they are worshiped in festivals and appreciated in connection to a number of Hindu gods and stories. Observed in Nepal, Bhutan, and the Indian states of Sikkim and West Bengal, Kukar Tihar (the 2nd day of Tihar) honors dogs as messengers that help guide spirits of the deceased across the River of Death. In the Mahabharata, Yudhisthira, his brothers, and the queen Draupadi renounced their kingdom to ascend to the heavens. However, Yudhisthira was the only one that survived along with a dog that had joined them. Yudhisthira refused to go to heaven without the dog, who turned out to be Yamaraj, the God of Death. Sarama, the “female dog of the gods,” was famously asked by Indra to retrieve a herd of cows that were stolen. When the thieves were caught, they tried to bribe Sarama but she refused and now represents those who do not wish to possess but instead find what has been lost. The symbolic import of dogs is further driven in connection with Dattatreya, as he is commonly depicted with four of them to represent the Vedas, the Yugas, the stages of sound, and the inner forces of a human being (will, faculty, hope, and desire).

Dogs and Diwali? 5 Things to Know about Hinduism and hu(man)’s Best Friend

In 2018, the long-running Marvel comic series Black Panther, was brought to the big screen. A more prominent scene is when M’baku, a character vying for the throne of the fictional country of Wakanda, challenges T’Challa/Black Panther, and yells, “Glory to Hanuman.” However, despite dharma as an unsaid aspect of the characters’ interactions, Black Panther relies slightly more on Hindu symbolism than philosophy. But the significance of Hanuman as a transcendent deity cannot be overlooked, especially at a time when dialogues about global migration, the right to worship, and access to natural resources are becoming more overtly racialized. The film provides more than just an entertainment escape: it reimagines a world in which the current racial and theological paradigms are challenged forcefully. With the film expected to have at least several sequels, there will be more opportunities to reference Hinduism and Hindu iconography.

Why Black Panther’s References to Hinduism are Significant in Hollywood

One of the most celebrated Hindu festivals, Diwali (dee-VAH-lee) or Deepavali (dee-PAH-va-lee) commemorates the victory of good over evil during the course of five days. The word refers to rows of diyas — or clay lamps — which are put all around homes and places of worship. The light from these lamps symbolizes the illumination within all of us, which can overcome ignorance, represented by darkness. Devotees gather in local temples, homes, or community centers, to spend time with loved ones, make positive goals, and appreciate life.

Hindu Holidays & Dharmic Days Calendar 

On this day, because Diwali is a time for dana (charitable giving) and seva (selfless service), Hindus traditionally perform a deep cleaning of their homes and surroundings, as cleanliness is believed to invoke the presence and blessings of Goddess Lakshmi who, as mentioned earlier, is the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. Many will also make rangoli or kolum (colored patterns of flowers, powder, rice, or sand made on the floor), which are also said to invite auspiciousness. Observers thus begin Diwali by cultivating a spirit of generosity, doing things like giving money to charities, feeding the hungry, and endeavoring to help those in need.

5 Things to Know About Diwali

The spread of Hinduism to Southeast Asia established powerful Hindu kingdoms in the region, most notably the Khmer Empire that encompassed modern Cambodia and Thailand, and influential kingdoms in the Indonesia archipelago. Though Buddhism and Hinduism co-existed in the region for several centuries, Buddhism (and Islam in Indonesia) eventually replaced Hinduism as a primary religion. Today, there are approximately five million Hindus in Indonesia, primarily in Bali. As Bali is roughly 90 percent Hindu, this makes it a religious enclave in a country that contains the world’s largest Muslim population. There are also roughly 60,000 Cham Hindus in Vietnam, and smaller numbers in Thailand. Hinduism in Fiji, Malaysia, and Singapore is a much more recent phenomenon, with Hindus arriving in the 19th and early 20th centuries as indentured laborers. Today, Hindus are prominent in politics and business in all three countries, though they continue to experience discrimination as religious minorities.

Hinduism Beyond India: Bali

Hinduism Around the World

In 2014, the first Smithsonian exhibition chronicling the experiences of Indian Americans, many of whom are Hindus,  in the US was unveiled at their National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC. This exhibit was one of the largest ever produced by the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center, occupying 5,000 square feet and reaching millions of visitors. The message behind “Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation,” aimed to dispel stereotypes and myths that have followed Indian immigrants since they first arrived in the U.S. in 1790. The exhibit explored the heritage, daily experiences, and the many diverse contributions that immigrants and Indian Americans have made to the United States. The exhibition at the Museum of Natural History includes historical and contemporary images and artifacts, including those that document histories of discrimination and resistance, convey daily experiences, and symbolize achievements across the professions. Music and visual artworks provide commentary on the Indian American experience and form an important component of the exhibition. In 2017, this exhibit went on the road, traveling from city to city so that all could see the impact of Indians on American culture.

All About Hindu Heritage Month

Paramahansa Yogananda was a Hindu monk and yogi who came to the United States in 1920 and lived here for the last 32 years of his life. He is considered to be the first major Hindu Guru to settle in the United States. When Swami Yogananda arrived in the US, he made his first speech, made to the International Congress of Religious Liberals, on “The Science of Religion,” and was enthusiastically received. It was soon after that he founded the Self-Realization Fellowship (also known as Yogoda Satsanga Society (YSS) of India) and introduced millions of Americans to the ancient science and philosophy of meditation and Kriya yoga (path of attainment). In 1927, he was invited to the White House by President Calvin Coolidge, making Swami Yogananda the first prominent Indian and Hindu to be hosted in the White House.

Hinduism: Short Answers to Real Questions

Countless Americans Have Been Influenced by Swami Viveknanda

For those of us who are Hindu, we have noticed that some of the biggest Hollywood films produced in the last several decades have mirrored many of Hinduism's most fundamental philosophical ideas. One example is Avatar, a film named for the Sanskrit word avatāra (‘descent’), in which the protagonist, Jake Sully, enters and explores an alien world called Pandora by inhabiting the body of an indigenous 10-foot, blue-skinned being, an idea taken from Hinduism’s depictions of the various avatars of the blue god Vishnu, who are said to descend into our world for upholding dharma. Instead of aligning with the interests of the humans, who merely want to mine Pandora for the valuable mineral unobtanium, Sully fights alongside the alien humanoids native to the world, called Na’vi, who live in harmony with nature, believe all life is sacred, and that all life is connected by a divine force — teachings synonymous with Hinduism. Thus, similar to the avatars of Vishnu, Sully defends and preserves a spiritual culture by defeating those who would destroy it for materialistic pursuit. While this film doesn’t indicate in any direct way that they have anything to do with Hinduism, it’s clear they are communicating Hindu ideas that everyone relates to and understands on a profound level.

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, was founded in 1966 by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, a highly respected Vaishnava  (devotion to the god Vishnu and his incarnations avatars) scholar and monk. At the age of 70, Swami Prabhupada traveled from India to New York City to bring the Bhakti tradition, or Krishna Consciousness, to the west. In the 11 years before his passing in 1977, Srila Prabhupada translated, with elaborate commentaries, 60 volumes of Vaishnava literature; established more than 100 temples on six continents; and initiated 5,000 disciples. Today, his writings are studied in universities around the globe and are translated into nearly 100 languages. To date, ISKCON has over 400 temples,  dozens of rural communities and eco-sustainable projects, and nearly 100 vegetarian restaurants world-wide with 56 of them in the US. 

Statement Against Caste Based Discrimination: ISKCON

Who was that Hare Krishna at the start of “Get Back”?

Hinduism came in waves to Africa, with Southern Africa getting Hindu workers during the early years of British colonization, while East and West Africa experienced Hindu migration during the 20th century. Hinduism’s roughly 0.2% presence in Africa is seen as so inconsequential, most data organizations don’t even bother explicitly mentioning it in their census reports. But Hinduism is Ghana's fastest growing religion and one in which there are steady populations in both Northern and Southern African states. Durban is now home to most of South Africa’s 1.3 million Indians, making it, according to some sources, the largest Indian city outside of India, and thus a most powerful hub of Hindu practice. In the US, there are both communities of African Hindus who have migrated, as well as Black Hindus, who according to the 2019 Pew Survey, make up 2% of the Hindu population in the US.

Hinduism Beyond Africa

George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars, drew much of the inspiration for this major cultural phenomenon from the teachings of his mentor who was a lifelong student of Vedanta. In these films, many aspects of Hinduism are interwoven with the story. Some include Hanuman (Chewbaca and Ewoks), Shakti (force,energy), Yodha (Yoda), Brahman (infinite being). Besides the many philosophical parallels that can be highlighted between Star Wars and Hinduism, Star Wars also exhibits similarities in story structure and character roles to one of India’s famous epics, the Ramayana. Never seen the movie? Now might be the time to see how universally relatable Hindu thought can truly be.

The term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science or knowledge), translation to the knowledge of life. Ayurveda is considered to be the oldest healing science, originating in 1000 BCE. Based on the five elements that comprise the universe (space, air, fire, water, and earth), they combine and permutate to create three health principles  that govern the functioning and interplay of a person’s body, mind, and consciousness. These energies are referred to as doshas in Sanskrit. Ayurveda can be used in conjunction with Western medicine and Ayurvedic schools have gained approval as educational institutions in several states.

5 Things to Know About Ayurveda

In Hinduism, What is the Relationship Between Spirituality and Health?

While it’s synonymous to meditation, and seen simply as a doorway to tranquility for yogic practitioners, the true meaning of Om is deeply embedded in Hindu philosophy.

The word Om is defined by Hindu scripture as being the original vibration of the universe, which all other vibrations are able to manifest. Within Hinduism, the meaning and connotations of Om is perceived in a variety of ways. Though heard and often written as “om,” due to the way it sounds when it is repeatedly chanted, the sacred syllable is originally and more accurately spelled as “aum.” Broken down, the three letters of A – U – M represent a number of sacred trinities such as different conditions of consciousness (waking state, dreaming state, and deep sleep state), the deities in charge of the creation, preservation, and destruction of the universe ( Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva), aspects of time (past, present, and future), among many others. 

5 Things to Know About Om

Religious Symbols

Dr. Anandi Gopal Joshi is credited with being the first woman from India to study medicine in the United States. Born in Bombay in 1865, she was married at the age of ten to an older man who had been her teacher. Dr. Joshi had a child at the age of 13, but the child died when only 10 days old. She believed that with better medical care, the child would have lived, and she frequently cited this as motivation for her desire to attend medical school. Her husband encouraged her in her academic pursuits and in 1883, Joshee joined the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, now known as the Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia. She graduated in 1886 with her degree in medicine; her M.D. thesis focused on Hindu obstetrics. Unfortunately,  Dr. Joshi was only able to practice medicine for a few months before passing away from tuberculosis.

Science in Hinduism

Hinduism is the religion of almost 25% of Guyana’s population, making it the country with the highest percentage of Hindus in the Western Hemisphere. But from British professional recruiting agents targeting rural and uneducated Indians, to the aggressiveness of Christian proselytization of Hindus with a promise of a better life, Hinduism has been in a steady decline for many decades with many escaping to the United States for better opportunities and to practice their religion freely. Today, over 80% of Guyanese Americans live in the Northeastern United States with heavy concentrations in New Jersey and in New York, where a “Little Guyana”  helps these immigrants stay connected to their Guyanese roots.

Hinduism beyond India: Guyana

Karwa Chauth or Karva Chauth (kuhr-vah-CHOATH) is a North Indian holiday in which wives fast for the longevity and health of their husbands, however, many unmarried women celebrate in hopes of meeting their ideal life partner. Typically, wives spend the day preparing gifts to exchange, and fasting until the moon is visible. It is believed that its light symbolizes love and blessings of a happy life. While there are varying legends behind this holiday’s traditions and meaning, the message of honoring the relationships women form with their family and community prevails.

Karwa Chauth

Hindu Holidays & Dharmic Days Calendar

As sound vibration can affect the most subtle element of creation, it is interpreted in Hindu scriptures that spiritual sound vibrations can affect the atman (soul) in a particularly potent way. Such spiritual sound vibrations are said to have the ability to awaken our original spiritual consciousness and help us remember that we are beyond the ambivalence of life, and actually originate from the Divine. As such, the main goal of many types of Hindu musical expression is to help stir us out of our spiritual slumber by evoking feelings of love and connection that help us to better perceive the presence of the Divine within all. Some of the more popular examples of musical expressions within Hinduism include shlokas (verse, or poem), mantras (sacred syllables repeated in prayer), kirtans (congregational singing of mantras), and bhajans (devotional songs). You can find musical spiritual expressions through the US in temples,  Mandirs, and community centers.

The Power of Music According to Hinduism

What is Kirtan?

Yoga is considered Hinduism’s gift to humanity. At its broadest, yoga, from the root word “yuj” in Sanskrit, means to unite. Most Hindu texts discuss yoga as a practice to control the senses and ultimately, the mind. The most famous is the Bhagavad Gita (dating back to 6th-3rd Century BCE), in which Krishna speaks of four types of yoga – bhakti, or devotion; jnana, or knowledge; karma, or action; and dhyana, or concentration (often referred to as raja yoga, though not all sources agree on the term) – as paths to achieve moksha (enlightenment), the ultimate goal according to Hindu understanding. According to a 2016 study,  in the United States there are an estimated 36.7 million people currently practicing yoga in the United States.

The Hindu Roots of Yoga

According to Vedic cosmology, 108 is the basis of creation, representing the universe and all our existence. As the soul is encased in two types of bodies: the physical body (made of earth, water, fire, air, and ether) and the subtle body (composed of intelligence, mind and ego), Swami Viveknanda is often attributed with bringing Hindu teachings and practices — such as yoga and transcendental meditation — to Western audiences. In 1893, he was officially introduced to the United States at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago, where in his speech he called for religious tolerance and described Hinduism as “a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance.” The day that Swami Vivekananda delivered his speech at the Parliament of Religions is now known as ‘World Brotherhood Day.’ And his birthday, known as Swami Vivekananda Jayanti, is honored on January 12th each year. On this day he is commemorated and recognized for his contributions as a modern Hindu monk and respected guru of the Vedanta philosophy of Hinduism. In 1900, Swami Viveknanda founded the Vedanta Society in California and to date there are 36 Vedanta Society Centers in the United States.

Swami Vivekananda Influenced Countless Americans

According to Vedic cosmology, 108 is the basis of creation, representing the universe and all our existence. As the soul is encased in two types of bodies: the physical body (made of earth, water, fire, air, and ether) and the subtle body (composed of intelligence, mind and ego), 108 plays a significant role in keeping these two bodies healthily connected. Hindus believe the body holds seven chakras, or pools of energy, which begin at the bottom of the spine and go all the way down to the top of the head and it is believed there are 108 energy lines that converge to form the heart chakra. Ayurveda says there are 108 hidden spots in the body called marma points, where various tissues like muscles, veins, and ligaments meet. These are vital points of life force, and when they are out of balance, energy cannot properly flow throughout the body. Sun salutations, yogic asanas that honor the sun god Surya, are generally completed in nine rounds of 12 postures, totaling 108. Mantra meditation is usually chanted on a set of 108 beads.   In Hinduism there are 108 Upanishads, the sacred texts of wisdom from ancient sages. Additionally, in the Sanskrit alphabet, there are 54 letters. Each letter has a feminine, or Shakti, and masculine, or Shiva, quality. 54 multiplied by 2 equals 108. Ultimately, breathwork, chanting, studying scripture, and asana’s help harmonize one’s energy with the energy of the supreme spiritual source. These processes become especially effective when they are performed in connection with the number 108. Hindu scriptures strive to remind people of this divine commonality by continuously highlighting the innumerable threads connecting everything in existence. One of these threads is the number 108.

5 Things to know about 108

Here's How the Number 108 Binds Us to the Universe

A decade after slavery was abolished in 1834, the British government began importing indentured labor from India to work on their estates in other countries such as Trinidad and Tobago.  From 1845 to 1917, the ships would continue to arrive, carrying over 140,000 Indians to the island, facilitating Trinidad's population growth from Indian laborers. Today, there are roughly 240,000 declared Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago, comprising about 18% of the island’s population. There are a total of about 300 temples on the island, welcoming all who wish to enter and where many beloved Hindu festivals take place. But for some, the migration journey doesn’t end as New York and Florida have seen the development of large Indo-Caribbean communities.

Hinduism beyond India: Trinidad and Tobago

From ancient tribes to present-day devotees, tattoos have held a special place in Hinduism for centuries. In the Indian states of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, the Ramnaami community invoked Rama’s protection with tattoos of the name “Rama” in Sanskrit on every inch of their skin, including the tongue and inside the lips.The Mahabharata tells the story of the Pandavas that were exiled to the Kutch district of Gujarat. Today, their descendants - members of the Ribari tribe - live as their ancestors did, with women covered in tattoos that symbolize their people’s strong spirit for survival. Some Hindus consider tattoos as protective emblems,such as tattoos of Hanuman are often used to relieve physical or mental pain. People will often get tattoos of other deities to invoke their blessings. Mehndi, a plant-based temporary tattoo, is commonly done at weddings and religious ceremonies as a form of celebration of love and spirituality. While tattoos have been in Hindu communities for centuries, tattoos as symbols of honor, devotion, and even fashion are incredibly popular today. Hindus and non Hindus alike adorn themselves with Hindu emblems and tattoos that reflect Hindu teachings.

Guidelines for Commercial Use of Hindu Images

Navaratri (nuhv-uh-RA-three) is a nine night celebration of the feminine divine that occurs four times a year — the spring and fall celebrations being amongst the more widely celebrated. Some traditions honor the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga, while others celebrate the three goddesses (Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati) with three days dedicated to each. This is a time to recognize the role in which the loving, compassionate, and gentle — yet sometimes powerful and fierce — feminine energy plays in our lives.

Nine Things to Know About Navaratri

Dussehra (duh-sheh-RAH) or Vijayadashmi (vi-juhyuh-dushuh-mee) celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the ten-headed demon King Ravana. This also marks the end of Ramalila — a brief retelling of the Ramayana and the story of Rama, Sita, and Lakshman in the form of dramatic reading or dance. It also signifies the end of negativity and evil within us (vices, biases, prejudices) for a fresh new beginning. Dussehra often coincides with the end of Navratri and Duga Puja, and celebrations can last ten days, with huge figures of Ravana set ablaze as a reminder that good always prevails over evil.

Hinduism 101 & Women

Many Hindus hold reverence for the cow as a representation of mother earth, fertility, and Hindu values of selfless service, strength, dignity, and non-harming. Though not all Hindus are vegetarian, for this reason many traditionally abstain from eating beef. This is often linked with the concept of ahimsa (non-violence), which can be applied to diet choices and our interactions with the environment, and potentially determine our next birth, according to the doctrine of karma. This is part of the reason that some Hindus may choose a vegetarian lifestyle as an expression of ahimsa as well as explains the growing number of cow protection projects that are led by individuals who have felt compelled to put their Hindu values into practice. The US is home to several cow protection projects and sanctuaries

Dairy Is Traditionally Sattvic Food, but the Way We Treat Cows Today Can Be Tamasic

Cultured Meat and Animal-Free Dairy Upends the Plant-Based Food Discussion

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 facilitated the journey of many Indian immigrants to the United States. In this new land, many created home shrines and community temples to practice and hold pujas (services). As Hindu American populations grew in metropolitan and rural areas, so did the need to find a permanent temple site for worship. In 1906, the Vedanta Society built the Old Temple in San Francisco, California but as this was not considered a formal temple, many don’t credit this with being the first. Others believe it is the Shiva Murugan Temple built in 1957 in Concord, California, whereas others believe it is the Maha Vallabha Ganapati Devanstanam in New York that should be considered the first. Today, there are nearly 1,000 temples in the United States . Regardless of where you live, you have the right to practice your faith.

A Guide To Temple Safety and Security

5 Things to Know About Visiting a Hindu Temple

• Health & Balance

What Is Karma?

You may have wondered, “What is karma, and how karma affects your life?”

Karma is a concept with a few definitions, specifically in Hinduism and Buddhism, and the common sayings “what goes around comes around” and “what you sow is what you reap” are great examples of how karma works. 

Hinduism identifies karma as the relationship between a person’s mental or physical action and the consequences following that action. It also signifies the consequences of all the actions of a person in their current and previous lives and the chain of cause and effect in morality . 

In Buddhism, karma refers to the principle of cause and effect. The result of an action — which can be verbal, mental, or physical — is not determined by not only the act but also the intention.

Workings and Science of Karma

Karma promotes intentional action. For example, when you help someone in need, the action leaves an imprint, and as these imprints develop with experiences, it opens the possibility of you receiving help in return when you need it. Conversely, harmful actions bring about negative consequences — you won’t receive help when you need it, but instead, you may be harmed.  

But how does karma work? Let’s look at karma examples this way: if you were to plant oregano, would you expect something else to grow in its place? Of course, not. Oregano seeds would grow into oregano, just like lavender seeds would grow into lavender.

Karma psychology is essentially the same. If you act with good intentions, happiness will follow. If you act with ill intentions, problems will follow. 

When you see dishonest and cruel people in positions of power get ahead in life or kind people face hardships and die young, it may be hard for you to believe in karma. Many people invest in karma only in times of distress or when uncontrollable situations occur, such as a decline in health.

Karma often helps people cope with these situations. Even people who don’t believe in karma often think that good deeds lead to a good outcome.

However, there is a downside to this belief. Some people are selfless givers, who think their good deeds and sacrifices will help them win in life. But many of these givers also fail because they find it hard to set boundaries when helping others. They may drop their ambitions and goals to help others, making them fall behind in life.

Types of Karma 

Karma can be individual or collective. For example, individual karma is created by a person’s thoughts, words, and actions. But when people act as a group, like when soldiers use weapons or when a religious group prays or meditates, they create collective karma.

Good Karma vs. Bad Karma

Karma can be divided into good and bad karma. Good karma is a result of good deeds done for others, while bad karma results from intentional harm caused to others.

If your actions cause lasting pain and suffering, they are regarded as negative, unvirtuous, or destructive. If your actions cause happiness, they are considered constructive, positive, and virtuous. While actions aren’t as black and white as being fundamentally good or bad, the results can be identified as either. 

Sanchita Karma vs. Prarabdha Karma 

Karma has four dimensions. Of them, sanchita and prarabdha are the two most common. 

Sanchita karma is the warehouse of karma, which goes back to evolution. It is believed that when people close their eyes and become aware, they can know the nature of the universe because they have a warehouse of information — or sanchita karma. Through this warehouse, you can gain knowledge from single-celled animals and inanimate substances, dating back to the very beginning of creation. 

Prarabdha karma is the information given to you in your current lifetime. This information is often limited to only what you can handle. If you were to take on all of your karma memories, including those from your past lives, you would be unable to handle them and potentially die. Several people are already haunted by memories just from their current existence. This is where prarabdha karma comes into play.

Karma Principles

Karma has four main principles. 

• Small actions can lead to great results. The smallest action can bring about immense happiness or great sadness. What you may consider a small act of goodwill might be huge for another in the same way that a short hurtful remark can have a lasting impact on them. You might not realize it but doing good deeds for others — no matter how small — might be life-changing for them.  
• Karma is nontransferable. That is, you’re responsible for your own karmic experiences. No one else can experience your karma for you nor can they remove it for you and vice versa. 
• Noncommitted actions won’t give you the results you want. You must fully commit to actions or intent to bring about the results you desire. 
• Karmic actions won’t disappear on their own. You must experience the results, whether good or bad, or purify them through spiritual practices.

How Karma Affects Your Life

In Buddhist philosophy, no higher power gives rewards and punishments. You simply act with intent and experience the consequences of the actions. That is, you’re responsible for your own actions and consequences. 

Since karma is based on intent, accidental happenings do not count toward karmic justice or consequences. It’s impossible to prove that karma is real, but for the people who believe in it, it can often lead to stronger friendships and happiness. This is because most people who believe in karma will generally do good to receive something good in return.

Even if you don’t believe in karma, treating people with ill intent often leads to hard feelings, which can cause unhappiness and resentment . These feelings alone can cause troubles in life. People often attribute karma to treating others the way you want to be treated.

Karma can affect how you lead your life — either with fear of consequences or with anticipation of future rewards.

Top doctors in ,

Find more top doctors on, related links.

• Health and Balance News
• Health and Balance Reference
• Health and Balance Quizzes
• Health and Balance Slideshows
• Health and Balance Videos
• Find a Psychologist
• Quit-Smoking Assessment
• Anxiety & Panic Disorders
• Mental Health
• Smoking Cessation
• Stress Management
• More Related Topics

Home — Essay Samples — Religion — Karma — The Role Of Karma In Buddhism

The Role of Karma in Buddhism

• Categories: Karma

About this sample

Words: 2668 |

14 min read

Published: Jun 9, 2021

Words: 2668 | Pages: 6 | 14 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

• Expert in: Religion

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 521 words

1 pages / 476 words

3 pages / 1442 words

7 pages / 3148 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Karma

Have you ever heard the saying, "what goes around comes around"? This simple phrase encapsulates the essence of karma, a concept deeply rooted in various spiritual and philosophical traditions. Karma, often associated with the [...]

The concept of karma, whether true or false, is a topic of discussion for this essay. Karma is a belief that what goes around comes around, and our actions have consequences, either in this life or the next. Some people believe [...]

Do you believe in karma? This question probes the depths of a concept that has traversed cultural and philosophical boundaries for centuries. Karma, a core belief in many Eastern religions and philosophies, suggests that one's [...]

I believe in karma—a simple yet profound phrase that encapsulates the idea of cosmic justice and balance. This essay delves into the concept of karma, its philosophical origins, its role in various belief systems, and its [...]

Hinduism can be divided into two parts personality oriented (Gods and Goddesses) or principle oriented. And I believe I think of religion in a more principle oriented way and so karma yoga seems to call to me. If I was a Hindu, [...]

This essay will demonstrate one similarity and two differences between Buddhism and Islam’s belief of the concept of the afterlife/next life. For example, both belief in reaching the end of one’s life (i.e., for Muslims, one [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

• Newsletters
• Best Industries
• Business Plans
• Home-Based Business
• The UPS Store
• Customer Service
• Black in Business
• Your Next Move
• Female Founders
• Best Workplaces
• Company Culture
• Public Speaking
• HR/Benefits
• Productivity
• All the Hats
• Digital Transformation
• Artificial Intelligence
• Bringing Innovation to Market
• Cloud Computing
• Social Media
• Data Detectives
• Exit Interview
• Bootstrapping
• Crowdfunding
• Venture Capital
• Business Models
• Personal Finance
• Founder-Friendly Investors
• Upcoming Events
• Inc. 5000 Vision Conference
• Become a Sponsor
• Cox Business
• Verizon Business
• Branded Content
• Apply Inc. 5000 US

Inc. Premium

10 Selfless Ways to Build Good Karma and Generate Happiness

Want to do well by doing good add these kinds of activities to your life every day..

I have a theory, and it needs a name. Let's call it "strategic unselfishness ."

It's about putting into daily practice the kinds of things we've all heard many times: Life is about what you give, not what you get. Do good for others and good may happen to you. You have to make deposits before you can make withdrawals.

Now, if you're as prone to overthinking as I am, you might start to wonder whether a selfless act stays selfless if part of the doer's motivation is to bring good things to pass for himself. But setting that aside, how do you set yourself up habitually to do for others in your life? Here are 10 ideas to put into practice every day .

1. Offer a compliment.

A few months ago, I learned something about myself. I am really bad at giving compliments . I'm trying to get better at it. Telling someone that you think he or she does her job well is an easy way to spread positivity that costs you absolutely nothing.

2. Make a good recommendation.

A friend and co-worker of mine had this happened once. She was in a bit of a dry spell as a writer, and she channeled her energy into reviewing a mattress on Amazon . Her thoughtful review helped a lot of people--and also rejuvenated her confidence as a writer.

3. Just start working.

One of the best entrepreneurs I've been privileged to know once gave me some advice about how to get a job, especially in a new industry. His idea: Simply show up and start doing the work . Volunteer and overperform, take on a part-time position and do full-time work, or just be the one who starts pitching in without being asked.

4. Find someone a job.

Unemployment is down, but there's still a lot of financial insecurity in America these days. Even if you have a good job, people are often worried about how long that job will last, or whether times will stay good. Instead of worrying about your own fortunes however, make a connection or a recommendation that can help someone else's career goals--especially when there's nothing obvious in it for you.

5. Offer thanks.

I used to work as the top assistant to a pretty well-known and successful person in my field. I learned a lot from him, but one of the most subtle lessons I learned was his habit of thanking just about everyone we worked with for doing their jobs. The people at the publisher we worked with got a thank-you for their work; the guy who brought the car in the parking garage got a sincere expression of thanks. I realized over time that most people greatly appreciate even a simple statement of others' appreciation of them.

6. Give away something valuable.

I built a business around this idea. After I'd written a couple business and entrepreneurship books, people started to reach out telling me they needed to hire a ghostwriter . Many of the potential jobs weren't good fits for me, but I realized I knew a lot of other writers who might want them. Matchmaking turned out to be a great way to do well and do good at the same time.

7. Teach someone to do something.

One of the hardest things for many people to learn when they transition from being an individual performer to a leader is to take the time to teach others to do things rather than just doing them themselves. But we're all grateful to the people who take the time to mentor us, and we remember them sometimes even long after they're gone.

Often, the best thing to say is nothing at all . That's not just to avoid saying the wrong thing, but also to stay quiet long enough to listen to others. It can be the greatest gift we have to offer--simply to listen actively and truly hear what others have to say.

9. Offer forgiveness.

We've all been screwed over in life. We've all done things to other people that we regret. If you want to spread good karma, sometimes the best way to do so is to forgive people for some of the bad vibes they've sent your way.

10. Show up.

A few years ago, I went to give a speech for one of my books , and the event was a disaster. My talk was at a bookstore in a shopping mall way out in the suburbs on a weekday, the weather was horrible, and the room was half-empty. I was having a hard time getting excited, until I looked up from the podium. There was one of my old army buddies--a guy I hadn't seen in half a decade--soaked from the rain, grinning ear to ear. I don't think I'll ever forget that he made the effort to show up.

By the way, if you want to want to read some really eloquent words on this topic, check out Deidre Sullivan's essay, Always Go to the Funeral .

A refreshed look at leadership from the desk of CEO and chief content officer Stephanie Mehta

Privacy Policy