The ultimate
aim of the path of the Buddha is not simply to achieve good results by performing
good kamma. This is a mundane aim. The true aim of the path is to go entirely
beyond the chain of kamma and results.
As long as we go on performing kamma
and accumulating kamma, we remain subject to birth and death,.and we will meet
with suffering in its diverse forms. Whether one is living in a fortunate world
or an unfortunate world is secondary. All states of existence are impermanent,
without substance and unsatisfactory.
Kamma is generated due to clinging,
clinging to good or bad actions. Clinging rests upon ignorance. By developing
mindfulness and insight, by learning to see things as they really are, we can
put an end to clinging and break free from kamma. Then we discover the freedom
beyond kamma, the freedom of liberation.
The arahant, the liberated one, does
not generate any more kamma. He continues to act and perform volitional actions,
but without clinging. Hence his actions no longer constitute kamma. They don't
leave any imprints upon the mind. They don't have the potency of ripening in the
future to bring about rebirth. The activities of the arahants are called "Kriyas",
not kammas. They are simple actions. They leave no trace on the mental continuum,
just like the flight of birds across the sky.