Contemplating Karma – An Unusual Practice That Transforms Karma Effectively

Have you ever asked yourself, “Why am I still suffering despite long-term practice? Why do illness, poverty, and afflictions cling to me?” You might blame yourself for lacking diligence. However, there is a lesser-known method that helps us face our own pain directly to transform karmic forces from within. This is the practice of contemplating karma – a seemingly unusual approach with surprising effectiveness, shared recently by Venerable Thich Chan Quang in a dharma talk.

What Is Contemplating Karma?

Contemplating karma is a practice based on the Buddhist law of cause and effect (karmic law), yet applied as a fresh method not explicitly found in traditional scriptures. Venerable Thich Chan Quang honestly shares:

“This is a specific practice called contemplating karma. It is somewhat unusual. Naturally, everything stems from the law of cause and effect (karmic law) in Buddhism, but turning it into a distinct practice makes it unique. It has never appeared in the sutras before.”

Although new, its spirit remains true to the Buddha's teachings (Dharma). It helps us confront the karma creating suffering in our lives and transform it deeply.

The Four Golden Principles of Contemplating Karma

When facing any suffering – whether illness, poverty, afflictions (kleshas), or mental agitation – we should apply these four principles:

First: Never forget your suffering. Whether walking, standing, lying down, or sitting, always remember that you are ill, unhappy, or facing difficulties.

Second: Do not wish for it to end. This sounds strange, but this acceptance and lack of desire form the foundation of transformation.

Third: Know that this suffering is due to karma. All pain is the result of past actions.

Fourth: Karma means past mistakes and wrongdoings. Greed, hatred and delusion, arrogance, harming sentient beings, disrespecting those worthy of respect… all are faults.

The teacher emphasizes: “First, never forget the illness you currently have. Second, never wish for the illness to disappear. Third, know that the illness comes from karma, and understand that karma means past errors and sins.”

Applying It to Every Type of Suffering

This method applies to all forms of suffering. For example, when seriously ill, instead of merely wishing to be healed, contemplate using these four principles. When poor, facing accidents, or encountering unfavorable circumstances, remember that these are karmic results. When controlled by greed, hatred and delusion, or experiencing emotional distress, look directly at them without forgetting or wishing them away.

Even those who have practiced for a long time but whose minds remain agitated, unable to settle in meditative concentration, can use this method. The teacher recounts: “Many people become discouraged. Some possess great good roots; even if their practice yields no immediate results, they persist stubbornly.”

Why Is This Called True Repentance?

When we clearly see that suffering arises from karma and recognize it as past wrongdoing, genuine remorse naturally arises in our mind/heart. This is not superficial chanting for repentance, but a deep dive into one’s own heart. The teacher explains: “This is fundamental and sincere repentance. If one claims to be sinless, the sin persists forever. But here, constantly remembering one’s faults strikes at the core of karma, transforming it very quickly.”

Begin Practicing Today

When we contemplate karma, we stop running from suffering. We embrace it, examine it thoroughly, and engage in profound repentance. Simultaneously, combine this with bowing to the Buddha, making offerings, and cultivating merit. The teacher advises: “Do not commit evil deeds or make mistakes. Continue to build merit, maintain a diligent daily routine, do not rush, do not crave quick results, and do not be lazy. One day, the Buddha will grant the fruit of your efforts.”

So, choose a suffering present in your life and apply contemplation of karma right now. Do not hide it, do not forget it, and do not wish for it to vanish. View it as an opportunity to purify karmic obstacles. Contemplating karma is not an esoteric practice, but it can bring true peace and transformation from within. Try it for a few days, and you will feel the difference!