4 classification of karma

Classification of Karma (1)‏ July 8, 2012 Karma “Dear Monks, I would say that motive (thought) is Karma” were Buddha’s exact words regarding karma.The deeds done in accordance with the motives may be good or bad. Good deeds earn a person merits and bad deeds earn a person demerits.Karma is action, and Vipaka (fruit or result), is its reaction. According to their different functions, Karama is classified into 4 kinds. . 1. Reproductive Karma - Karma that shapes up the future birth of a person is called Reproductive Karma. It is the last thought of a person that determines who he would be in his next birth. 2. Supportive Karma - Assists or maintains the Reproductive Karma, from one’s conception to his death. It is neither good nor bad. 3. Obstructive Karma or Counteractive Karma - Weakens, interrupts and retards the fruition of the Reproductive Karma. For instance, a person born with a good Reproductive Karma may be subjected to various ailments, thus preventing him from enjoying the blissful results of his good actions. An animal, on the other hand, who is born with a bad Reproductive Karma may lead a comfortable life by getting good food, lodging, as a result of his good counteractive or obstructive Karma preventing the fruition of the evil Reproductive Karma. 4. Destructive Karma - A powerful opposing Karma of the past which nullifies the potential energy of the Reproductive Karma. This is moreeffective than the Supportive Karma and Obstructive Karma. Destructive Karma may be good or bad.Devadatta is the most suitable example to show how the above karma works. He attempted several times to kill Buddha and also made a rift in the Sangha community which are great sins.His good Reproductive Karma made him born to a Royal family. His continued comfort and prosperity were due to the action of the Supportive Karma.The Counteractive or Obstructive Karma came into operation when he was subjected to much humiliation as a result of his being banished from the Sangha community.Finally the Destructive Karma brought his life to a miserable end.