Overview
In the orthodox Theravāda commentarial tradition, kamma is analyzed highly systematically. Every intentional action operates in one of four ways regarding its function (kicca). This explains the complex web of causes and conditions that dictate a being’s lifespan, fortune, and sudden death.
The List
- Janaka-kamma - Productive Kamma: The primary kamma that produces rebirth-linking consciousness and the physical body at the moment of conception. It “generates” the existence.
- Upatthambhaka-kamma - Supportive Kamma: Kamma that cannot produce rebirth on its own, but steps in to support the Productive Kamma. It prolongs the lifespan or increases the happiness (or suffering) of the being.
- Upapīḷaka-kamma - Obstructive Kamma: Kamma that opposes the Productive Kamma. It frustrates happiness, causes illness, or suppresses the painful results of bad kamma, keeping a being from experiencing the full force of their destiny.
- Upaghātaka-kamma - Destructive Kamma: A massive, powerful kamma from the past that suddenly intercepts and entirely cuts off the Productive Kamma, causing sudden death or a total reversal of fortune before the natural lifespan is exhausted.
Textual References
- Commentary: Visuddhimagga (Chapter XIX) – The master matrix detailing how these functions interlock to control the destiny of a being.