Science Of Karma

The book "Science of Karma" by Dada Bhagwan, published by Dada Bhagwan Aradhana Trust, explores the profound and scientific principles of karma according to the Akram Vignan path of self-realization. The central message, as expounded by the enlightened being (Gnani Purush) "Dadashri" (Ambalal Muljibhai Patel), is that karma is not a random force but a precise scientific phenomenon governed by intent and self-realization.

Key Concepts and Teachings:

• Karma as Effect, Intent as Cause: The book emphasizes that external actions are merely the effect (karmaphala or discharge karma) of past causes. The true binding of karma occurs at the subtle, internal level through intentions (bhav or causal karma). It's the inner intention that acts as the seed for future experiences.
• The Ego (Ahamkar) as the Doer: The core of karma binding is identified as the ego, the mistaken belief "I am Chandubhai" or "I am this body." This identification with the non-Self creates the illusion of being the "doer" (karta bhav), which binds new karma.
• Vyavasthit Shakti (Circumstantial Evidence): Dadashri introduces Vyavasthit Shakti as the controlling force behind the unfolding of karma. It's a scientific, circumstantial evidence that orchestrates the timing, space, and circumstances for karma to bear fruit. Karma is a part of Vyavasthit, but Vyavasthit is not limited to karma.
• Self-Realization (Atma Gnan) as the Solution: The ultimate liberation from the cycle of karma is achieved through Self-Realization, the direct experiential knowledge of the pure Soul (Shuddhatma). Once one realizes "I am the Soul, not the body, nor the doer," the binding of new karma ceases.
• Akram Vignan (The Unstepless Path): The teachings are presented through Akram Vignan, a direct, step-less path to Self-Realization, facilitated by a living Gnani Purush. This path allows individuals to attain the knowledge of the Self and break free from karmic bondage in a short period.
• The Nature of Karma:
  • No Beginning, No End: Karma and the Soul have existed eternally. The concept of a "first karma" is unfounded.
  • Cause and Effect Cycle: Karma operates on a precise cycle of cause and effect, where internal intentions (causes) lead to external experiences (effects).
  • Karma of Load and Discharge: Past karmas are carried as "loads" and are discharged as experiences in the present life. New karmas are "loaded" through present intentions.
  • Visible Karma (Effect) vs. Subtle Karma (Cause): Visible actions are effects, while subtle internal intentions are the actual causes that bind karma for future lives.
  • No Cancellation: Good and bad actions do not cancel each other out. Each karma must be experienced.
• The Role of the Gnani Purush: A Gnani Purush, having realized the Self, is free from the ego and does not bind new karma. Through the Gnan Vidhi (a ritual of Self-Realization), they can impart this knowledge to others, freeing them from the illusion of doership and the binding of karma.
• Understanding Suffering: Suffering arises from the mistaken identification with the body and ego, and the subsequent creation of new karma. By understanding that all experiences are effects of past causes, and by ceasing to create new causes, one can break the cycle of suffering.
• The Importance of Intent: The book strongly advocates for cultivating pure inner intentions, as these are the true determinants of karma. Even if external actions are perceived as negative, a pure intention or sincere apology (pratikraman) can mitigate or erase the binding of new karma.
• Liberation While Living: The goal is not to renounce the world but to live in the world with the knowledge of the Self, understanding all interactions as karmic effects, and thus not binding new karma. This state is known as living liberated while alive.

The book uses a question-and-answer format, with Dadashri patiently explaining complex spiritual concepts in simple, accessible language. It aims to dissolve the confusion surrounding karma and provide a clear, scientific path to liberation, emphasizing the power of inner awareness and the transformative grace of a Gnani Purush.