Karma In Buddhist Schools And Sects

[mavrica 0]

Hello everyone,

 

not long ago I discussed with someone the concept of karma.

This person is not ignorant in topic world religions, so I was rather surprised to hear him say that in some Buddhist schools (or sects, I am not sure anymore) there is no such thing as karma. I think he mentioned Japan, but don't take me at word ...

 

Is this true? I thought karma was essential to Buddhism in general and was common to all schools.

 

I would very much appreciate an explanation.

 

Thank you.

[mavrica 0]

ooookay, I see - zen. no rebirths.

interesting. and still Buddhism.

so then karma is not the central idea after all ...

 

 

All the best

[Shenpen.Rinpoche 0]

Yes, karma, under a form or another, is in the central part of Buddhism. The law of cause and effects is what shapes our lives in the positive or negatives direction, to my understanding, in all school of Buddhism. Some Zen masters are saying that reincarnation is unimportant, and do not focus on this matter at all; it doesn't mean they don't believe in it.

 

http://www.zenguide.com/principles/karma_and_reincarnation.cfm

[mavrica 0]

Dear Rinpoche,

 

that is the reason I asked here ... there are many confusing information about the practices of Zen, some seem to confirm the concept of karma, others oppose it ---

 

Still, I find it amazing that within one religion, so many different approaches can exist (I mean not only Buddhism here).

 

I haven't really put much effort into studying different schools or approaches, I must admit, because I was from the beginning happy with the one I found within Dharmaling. I know it is always suggested to study various approaches before deciding for one, but well ... maybe I didn't need to? ...

 

However, this also means, that I am not so well equipped for theoretical discussions on the matter ...

 

Thank You.