Karma - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

Karma, in the context of GCSE Religious Studies, is a key concept in Hinduism and Buddhism that refers to the idea of cause and effect, where every action has consequences that can influence one's future. It is the principle that good deeds and intentions lead to positive outcomes, while harmful actions result in negative consequences. In Hinduism, karma plays a crucial role in determining one's rebirth in the cycle of samsara, while in Buddhism, it influences one's journey towards enlightenment. Understanding karma encourages moral behaviour and responsibility, as it highlights how actions not only affect the individual but also contribute to the broader moral order of the universe.