Kamma
produces its results in different ways. There are two general ways in which it
comes to fruition:
1. It produces the type of rebirth, the basic rebirth consciousness.
2.
It produces various results within the course of an existence..
At the time
of death, a particular dominant kamma may come to the fore of the mind and steer
the stream of consciousness to the new existence. Once rebirth takes place, certain
other kammas mature during the course of life bringing either favourable or unfavourable
results.
The good and bad results that arise from kamma are not rewards or
punishments. They are not imposed by any outside power. Actions produce their
results naturally through the law of cause and effect working in the moral realm.
This natural law is called 'kamma niyama', the order of kamma, which functions
autonomously. The Buddha explains how kamma is the cause of differences in the
fortunes of people.
(a) Some people die prematurely because in the past they
have destoyed life. The karmic result of killing is to be shortlived. Others live
long because they were kind and compassionate, they had respect and reverence
for life.
(b) Some are sickly because they have injured and hurt other beings.
(c)
Those who were often angry and harsh become ugly, those who were patient and cheerful
become beautiful.
(d) Some are rich because they have been generous in the
past, some are poor because they have been selfish.
(e) Some are influential
because they have rejoiced in the good fortunes of others.
(f) Some are weak
and powerless because they have been envious of the good fortunes of others.
(g)
Some are intelligent because they have been reflective and studious in the past,
because they always enquired and investigated matters. Some are dull and stupid
because they have been lazy and negligent, because they never studied and did
not think.