How Karmic Retribution Works

All actions performed by sentient beings throughout their endless cycles of rebirth—whether major or minor, virtuous or evil, or neutral—are recorded by each individual's Tathāgatagarbha (Buddha-nature) as seeds stored within it. When conditions mature, the Tathāgatagarbha releases these stored karmic seeds to fulfill the law of cause and effect, and sentient beings accordingly receive their corresponding retribution. For instance, in the act of killing: when A kills B, the Tathāgatagarbha of both individuals simultaneously records this event. Though the action vanishes, the seeds are stored without being destroyed. When the two encounter each other in a future life—whether acquainted or not—and the conditions ripen, their respective Tathāgatagarbhas release the karmic seeds. The one who was killed then develops the intention to kill A.

If in a past life, A unintentionally and accidentally killed B, then in their present encounter, B will also unintentionally and accidentally kill A. Thus, karmic retribution is impartially fulfilled: B does not know why they kill A, and A does not know why they are killed. The karmic seeds of killing and being killed between them vanish, leaving no debt owed. However, if B exacts excessive retribution—such as simultaneously robbing A’s property, dismembering A, or committing other evil or virtuous acts—their respective Tathāgatagarbhas record these anew. In future encounters, A will seek repayment from B. If A then exacts excessive retribution, B will again seek repayment in turn. Thus, the cycle of cause and effect continues endlessly, with no hope of liberation. Sentient beings remain entangled in this web of karmic fruit, suffering unbearably and deeply pitiable. As karmic actions cease not, rebirth continues without end. By studying Buddhism, sentient beings comprehend the Buddha’s teachings, purify their karmic actions, and refrain from creating evil karma. May they forge abundant virtuous connections, support one another in practice, board the Dharma vessel together, and reach the far shore as one.