Grammatical Analysis
Kamma: [nt.] action; deed; volitional activity. From root kar (to do, make, perform). Literally means “something done.”
Orthodox Definition
In the orthodox Theravāda framework, kamma refers specifically to volitional or intentional actions performed through body (kāya-kamma), speech (vacī-kamma), or mind (mano-kamma). Crucially, mechanical, involuntary, or purely accidental actions do not constitute kamma because they lack the definitive element of mental intention.
As the Buddha stated: “Cetanāhaṃ, bhikkhave, kammaṃ vadāmi” (Intention, O monks, is what I call kamma).
Kamma is strictly categorized by its ethical quality and its resultant potential:
- Kusala-kamma: Wholesome or skillful actions rooted in non-greed (alobha), non-hatred (adosa), and non-delusion (amoha).
- Akusala-kamma: Unwholesome or unskillful actions rooted in greed (lobha), hatred (dosa), and delusion (moha).
Every intentional act deposits a seed of potential energy that, when conditions mature, inevitably produces its corresponding result (vipāka). It is the cosmic moral law operating without any divine arbiter or judge.
Textual References
- Sutta: Cūḷakammavibhaṅga Sutta (MN 135) – Detailed explanation of how individual differences among human beings are caused by past kamma.
- Abhidhamma: Paṭṭhāna (Kamma-paccaya section) – Detailed analysis of how kamma condition interacts with mental states.
- Commentary: Atthasālinī (Exposition on volitional actions).