A Study of Causes and Effects of Kamma in the Story of SāmāvaTī

Abstract

The aims of this research were: 1) to study the concepts of causes and effects of Kamma (action) in Theravada Buddhist philosophy: 2) to analyze causes and effects of Kamma in the story of Sāmāvadī. This study was carried out by means of a documentary research methodology through studying academic documents and related research works. The gathered data were then presented by the descriptive analysis based on the inductive reasoning principle.
The research results are as follows:
1. The concepts of causes and effects of Kamma in Theravada Buddhist
philosophy creates awareness of correct application of reasoning and rules including analysis of reasoning in various contexts of Kamma affecting the individual and the present society. It is a guide used in explaining the debate about Kamma in society today.
2. Sāmāvadī was a wealthy daughter of the millionaire Phaddavadī. Then she married with King Uthen. She became Sotāpanna (Stream-Enterer) and was praised by the Lord Buddha as an excellent person with Metta-Dhamma (Loving Kindness).
3. The analysis of the causes and effects of Kamma in the story of Sāmāvadī revealed that Sāmāvadī created Kamma which was the burning ofPaccekabuddha (Individually Enlightened One) in the past. Due to this Kamma, she was burned by Māgadiyā and her followers. Due to this Kamma, Māgadiyā and his followers were punished by burning as a karmic result. From this matter, people in the society are aware of Kamma and its effects.