A Christian View of Karma – Galatians 6:7

The concept of Karma is widely thrown about in our day and time, but most people have no idea what the word actually means or where it comes from. Regardless of our personal religious beliefs, many of us use the term frequently and most of us think we know exactly what it means. Some of us could be wrong.

According to Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karma), the word Karma means “action, work, or deed.” We are more familiar with its secondary meaning, the “spiritual principle of cause and effect where intent and actions of an individual (cause) influence the future of that individual (effect). Good intent and good deeds contribute to good karma and future happiness, while bad intent and bad deeds contribute to bad karma and future suffering.” The philosophy comes from the Indian religions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.

I often wonder why so many Christians and others who are totally unfamiliar with these religions (or have so many contrasting beliefs) are so eager to embrace the concept of Karma. I also wonder why we are so focused on the negative aspects, considering Karma some cosmic form of revenge. Rarely have I heard people talking about the rewards of having good Karma. Maybe we should examine the facts and consider a more practical Christian alternative.

In its original form, Karma has three main components. First is the basic cause and effect part we generally understand. Second is a concept called ethicization. In simple terms, this means every action has a consequence and because our intent is part of the equation, Karma has an ethical component. Why we do things matters. Third, rebirth or reincarnation plays a part. The consequences of our actions may affect us later in this life or in the next.

So, let’s reconsider. In the natural world in which we live, there are obvious instances of cause and effect. There are also plenty of examples of natural consequences. Often, however, we tend to overlook intentions. We don’t usually think we deserve punishment (or rewards) just because of our thoughts or intentions. In addition, I don’t know any Baptists who believe in reincarnation. Our real problem is patience. I know of lots of people with a history of awful actions and deeds (accompanied by many questionable intents) who are rich and famous and have seemingly received vast rewards despite their evil actions. The same was true in Biblical times.

For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills. From their callous hearts comes iniquity; the evil conceits of their minds know no limits. This is what the wicked are like – always carefree, they increase in wealth.

(Psalms 73, v.3-5, 7, 12, NIV)

So, instead of cherry-picking ideas and concepts from religions we don’t follow, why don’t we just stick with the Bible. Fortunately for us, Christianity provides a similar concept.

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

(Galatians 6: 7-10, NIV)

Often referred to as the law of the harvest, this Christian concept is similar to the idea of Karma. Basically, we get what we deserve. What goes around, comes around. There are consequences to our actions. Our intentions do matter. And best of all, the decisions are up to God. We don’t have to judge others. We don’t have to reward or punish. We simply have to live our lives, as best we can, doing good hopefully, and let God sort out the rest.

And truthfully, in this life, we may not get all we deserve, good or bad. And we may not get to see the people who have wronged us get what they deserve either, but that’s okay. I don’t believe in reincarnation, but I do believe in eternal life and thank God it’s a gift I hope to claim, deserving or not.