This great law functions on the principle, that any action performed produces an equal and opposite reaction, which directly influences our very existence.
Karma, like time and gravity, is a universal principle and every one is effected by its influence. While the law of physics applies to the interaction of material objects only, the law of karma however, applies to any action performed by living entities and governs the interrelations of all living beings. The state laws for example, are grossly observed; but the law of material nature [karma] being subtle to our gross understanding, cannot be experienced grossly or understood by mental speculation.
The law of karma states, that every action performed in life creates another reaction which in turn produces a new counter action. Thus an endless chain of actions and reactions is produced which binds the living entity to his good and bad deeds. This is the way how karma works. It creates an action and another reaction simultaneously and this increases the chain of material activities, keeping
the performer in material bondage.
Action has three components: the senses, the work and the doer and three motivating factors: knowledge, the object of knowledge, and the knower.
The soul within the body is acting to bring about the results of activity and is therefore known as the doer. Its instruments of action are the senses, and for each and every action there is a different endeavour.
From one life to the next, and from one cosmic creation to the next, the living entity makes a determination to act in a certain way, and then he is entangled in the reactions to his work. After giving up one body, he enters another, and usually he forgets everything about his previous life [see: re-incarnation]. The Supersoul in everyone's heart witnesses one's past desires and gives one facilities and directions how to fulfill them. In this way, the soul reaps the results of his actions.
