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Buddhists/Karma?
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Question
I just have a quick question on Karma - i have tried looking for it on various websites, but I cannot seem to find the answer.
Does the concept of Karma state that there is some absolute moral law? For if there is to be cause and effect within the moral world, then that owuld imply that morals exist, and are objective, not subjective opinions (for example, many think that morals are relative, depending on which society you live in. Some societies will think that good is this, but others will think that good is something else. It is dependant on a person's opinion).
So would you then say that there is an absolute moral law, an absolute standard of morality true of all of the universe, or somethign else?
Hi Nicolaas,
Welcome again. You are a real thinking Buddhist. It's good that you think and analyse, instead of just believe.
Kamma is "amoral" meaning it is a natural law without judgement. It's just like electricity. If you touch a "life" current you'll get electrocuted whatever the reason.
What you are referring to are not absolute morals. They are the cultural and traditional beliefs and practices accepted by the society within. They may be good, neutral or even bad and evil.
Take care.
Justin Choo
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Answers by Expert:
Justin Choo
Expertise
When in doubt seek it out. All your questions will be answered, and you may not have to agree with the answers. Such is the beauty of Buddhism. You are free to decide. I follow the Theravada tradition, and have been studying Buddhism for more than 40 years. Please view my profile for more details. I have answered more than 1500 questions since joining this category. You may like to give me the honor to answer your question.
Experience
I was brought up in the 50's as a Buddhist. For the past 40 years I have read numerous books on Buddhism and listened to numerous talks on Buddhism by well-respected and learned monks and lay teachers. I conduct Buddhist classes for parents of Sunday School children in a Theravada Buddhist Temple.
My teacher was the late Chief Reverend, The Ven. K Sri Dhammananda of The Brickfields Buddhist Mahavihara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. You can view the relevent website in memory of my revered late teacher @
http://www.ksridhammananda.com
Organizations
I am a life member of the Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia.
Publications
YOU ARE INVITED TO VISIT MY BLOG @
http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/
Published a book called "The Rainbow And The Treasure". It is a compilation of extracts from various sources to introduce Buddhism to beginners. (Currently out of print)
Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Commerce And Administration, Victoria University Of Wellington, NZ.(1974)
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