Karm Parinam Ki Parampara

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Karm Parinam ki Parampara" by Kedarnath, in English:

The book, "Karm Parinam ki Parampara" (The Tradition of Karmic Consequences), by Kedarnath, challenges the traditional understanding of when and to whom the results of karma are experienced. It argues that the consequences of an action, or even the intention behind it, begin to manifest immediately in the consciousness of the doer, causing feelings of happiness or sorrow. These conscious and subconscious "waves" or vibrations then spread into the world.

The author asserts that the cycle of karma is a continuous process, unbroken by individual death. Rather than a strict one-to-one karmic retribution limited to the individual across lifetimes, the text proposes a more expansive view. It suggests that our karmic "vibrations" and "movements" merge with similar energies in the universe. This includes merging with like-minded substances or elements (sajātīya sattva yā tattva) in the world, echoing the principle of action and reaction.

The text addresses the common belief that one experiences the fruits of one's good or bad deeds either in this life or the next. While this belief has historically fostered morality and a sense of cosmic justice, the author suggests it's time for a revision. The core of this revision is the idea that karmic consequences are not solely personal; they are collective. Our actions, intentions, and feelings contribute to the universal "movements" and "vibrations" of the cosmos, and their consequences are felt not just by ourselves but by everyone.

This broader perspective, the author argues, stems from a more inclusive sense of "self" or "belonging" (apnepan ki bhāvnā). Initially, this sense is limited to one's own soul across lifetimes. However, as our consciousness (ātmabhāv) expands, we realize that the justice of karma operates on a larger, collective scale. This broader understanding is considered more noble, truthful, and worthy of faith.

The text emphasizes that by embracing this collective view of karmic consequences, we cultivate mutual love, trust, and unity. It fosters a sense of equanimity (samabhāv) and leads to the progress of all humanity. To achieve this, individuals must purify their actions and intentions, strive for good deeds, and cultivate virtuous thoughts.

The author draws an analogy with loving parents who, to ensure their child's well-being and progress, adopt disciplined, virtuous, and ethical conduct themselves. Similarly, if we extend our love and empathy to all of humanity, we will find fulfillment in enduring hardship for the sake of the Dharma (righteous path) for all. The true meaning of life, according to the text, lies not in enduring suffering for one's limited self, but in bearing hardship for the sake of a vast, unified vision of humanity and oneness.

In essence, "Karm Parinam ki Parampara" advocates for a shift from a personal, individualistic understanding of karma to a collective, universal one, highlighting the interconnectedness of all beings through their actions and intentions.