We’ve all heard the word “karma.” In pop culture, it often describes a “get what you give” mentality and can even carry a negative, vengeful connotation.
But karma doesn’t refer to a cosmic justice system. It doesn’t mean “good things happen to good people.” Karma is the Sanskrit word for “action,” and it refers to how our intentions guide our actions and how those actions subsequently shape the future.
Think of karma as a guiding principle that can positively influence the thoughts and feelings behind your actions, not a mystical referee who rewards and punishes people for what they do.
Karma quotes make great content for social media, where people are always looking for ways to inspire others to think deeply and open their minds. Review this primer before talking about karma on social media.
What does “karma” actually mean?
Your tough day isn’t a result of bad karma. Your car crash wasn’t punishment for accidentally smashing your friend’s favorite coffee mug. Many think this is how karmic law works, but it’s a misconception.
Karma is a complex spiritual concept. Many religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism, include conceptions of karma. Some like to think of karma as planting seeds for the future with the actions you do now, that treating yourself and others well will earn you good karma. When you plant “good seeds,” the “plants” you grow will be healthy.
Those who believe in the power of karma also believe that having a negative perception of yourself and your past actions can hurt your psyche and soul and that you should keep your chin up, be forgiving and give yourself the benefit of the doubt. Behaving in ways that make you feel like a good person will lead to a better life. You’re in control of your own karma, just like you’re responsible for your own actions.
To get an even better idea of this very nuanced concept, check out the list of karma sayings below. They’ll deepen your understanding and help you accurately explain this concept to others:
