Past Actions

Past Actions (las)

• The technical term "past action" (Skt. karma) refers to the doctrine of evolutionary actions and their consequences. It includes in its causal aspect both the actual actions (physical, verbal and mental) and the psychological imprints and tendencies created within the mind by such actions. After the performance of an action a causal chain is maintained within the mental continuum which continues through successive rebirths. Such an evolutionary potential is later activated when it interacts with appropriate circumstances and conditions, thus leading to the fruition of its effects. The doctrine of past actions has two main features: 1) one never experiences the consequences of an action not committed; and 2) the potential of an action once committed is never lost unless obviated by specific remedies. For a detailed discussion, see L. Pruden, (trans.) Abhidharmakośabhāṣyaṃ, Ch. 4, Karma, pp. 551-708; and for an empirical explanation, dPal-sprul Rin-po-che, The Words of My Perfect Teacher, pp. 101-131. GD (from the Glossary to Tibetan Elemental Divination Paintings)