[Buddha-l] bad karma causes illness?

[Mike Austin]

jkirk <jkirk at spro.net> writes

>Most of the canonic ideas about the cosmic workings of kamma
>simply strike me as anciently supernatural when it comes to
>behavior, morals, and the consequences of action in daily life,
>or the question of no discoverable explanations.

To my mind, the purpose of teachings on karma is primarily as a guide to 
conduct.  If one finds them suitable, then they may also help one accept 
adverse conditions.  The Buddha warned about vexation due to dwelling on 
the workings of karma, though.

As a guide to conduct,  it suits some people better to speak in terms of 
"hiri" and "ottapa", or moral shame and moral concern.  However, I don't 
know what approach such people might take when experiencing adversity.

Whatever the case,  I think much harm can be done through indiscriminate 
use of the doctrine of karma, particularly in a society that seems to be 
increasingly concerned with blame.

-- 
Metta
Mike Austin