Significance of Cause and effect
Cause and effect is a fundamental principle across various philosophies and religions, illustrating the relationship between actions (causes) and their outcomes (effects). This concept emphasizes that every action has consequences, crucial for understanding karma, ethics, and spiritual development. In Buddhism, it clarifies the dynamics of moral actions, while in Hinduism, it underscores the connection between events and their impact on the soul. Similarly, other traditions like Jainism and Nyaya explore this relationship, reflecting its significance in explaining how each event influences another, thereby shaping existence and experiences.
Synonyms: Causation, Consequence, Relationship, Correlation, Influence, Outcome, Effect, Result, Causality
In Dutch: Oorzaak en gevolg; In Finnish: Syy ja seuraus; In Spanish: Causa y efecto; In German: Ursache und Wirkung; In Swedish: Orsak och verkan; In Malay: Sebab dan akibat; In French: Cause et effet
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Cause and effect'
In Buddhism, the concept of cause and effect highlights the interconnectedness of actions and their outcomes, emphasizing that one’s deeds (kamma) influence future experiences, crucial for spiritual development and understanding karma's role in existence.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The relationship where an effect is produced by a cause that is still in existence.[1] (2) The foundational relationship outlined in the text that discusses how effects arise specifically from their corresponding causes.[2] (3) A relationship where one event or cognition is understood to have led to another, which cannot be established without a continuous perceivable link.[3] (4) A relationship whereby one event (the cause) directly influences another event (the effect), essential for understanding valid cognition.[4] (5) A fundamental principle indicating that every effect has a preceding cause, which is crucial to understanding the argument presented.[5]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A principle explaining the relationship between actions and their outcomes, explored deeply by the subject.[6] (2) A key doctrine that the Dharmasvamin came to understand and teach after his illness.[7]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) The principle that all phenomena arise and change through interconnected causes and conditions.[8] (2) The fundamental principle that ties actions to their eventual outcomes.[9] (3) A principle often denied in the context of the belief in the nonexistence of forms, suggesting that if forms are empty, so too are their causes and effects.[10] (4) A fundamental principle that actions lead to consequences; denied by the demon's words as part of their misleading teachings.[11] (5) A fundamental principle in Buddhism stating that all actions have consequences, which is denied by those who believe in eternal extinction.[12]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The principle that all phenomena exist through a relationship of causation, reflecting the nature of existence defined by interdependence.[13] (2) A principle that the damned denied, further contributing to their suffering in hell.[14] (3) A fundamental relationship in which an effect arises from a specific cause, serving as the basis for the discussion on the non-existence of causal conditions.[15] (4) The relationship through which nirmanas emerge, implying that they result from identifiable origins.[16] (5) Sarvajnata represents the cause (hetu) while sarvakarajnata represents the effect (phala) in the context of knowledge.[17]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A fundamental principle in Buddhist philosophy indicating that every action has implications that lead to subsequent outcomes.[18] (2) The principle that actions lead to corresponding outcomes, emphasizing the moral consequences of one's behavior.[19]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The principle of karma, indicating that one's actions lead to corresponding results.[20] (2) The fundamental principle explaining how actions lead to specific results, which arhats struggle to fully comprehend, especially in complex scenarios.[21]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) The principle that actions have consequences, central to understanding karma in Buddhism.[22] (2) The principle that every action has a corresponding reaction, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct in shaping one's future.[23]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The principle illustrated by the Exalted One regarding the relationship of ignorance, craving, and karma in the cycle of birth and reconstitution.[24]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The relationship wherein mental activity leads to sense contact, which in turn produces feelings, without the involvement of an ego or creator.[25] (2) The relationship showing how a person's actions and states of mind lead to subsequent outcomes in their lifetimes.[26] (3) A principle where every cause leads only to its relevant effect, establishing a crucial relationship that excludes the influence of irrelevant effects.[27]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A fundamental concept in Buddhism explaining how actions (kamma) are linked to their consequences in both this life and future lives.[28] (2) The fundamental principle that actions have consequences, a teaching emphasized by the Buddha.[29]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life
(1) A fundamental principle in Buddhist philosophy that explains how actions lead to corresponding outcomes, emphasized in the Suttanta.[30]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The principle that one's deeds (kamma) lead to corresponding outcomes, impacting future existences.[31]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) The principle that every phenomenon is a result of preceding events and conditions, establishing a connection between actions and outcomes.[32]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) The ways of cause and effect should be searched out to give rise to questions, so that their wisdom shall have some work to do and not be out of work and idle.[33]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The principle that every action has consequences; in this context, it refers to the relationship between actions and their outcomes in terms of happiness and suffering.[34] (2) A fundamental principle that describes the relationship between actions (causes) and their outcomes (effects), which is essential for understanding karma and ethical conduct within the context of Dharma.[35] (3) The fundamental principle that actions have consequences, understood through the teachings of the path and clarified by interactions with the spiritual friend.[36] (4) The fundamental Buddhist principle that emphasizes the relationships between actions and their consequences.[37]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The principle that all things in the world operate according to a system of interrelated causes and outcomes.[38] (2) A fundamental principle indicating that wholesome actions lead to positive outcomes while unwholesome actions lead to negative results.[39]
Hindu concept of 'Cause and effect'
In Hinduism, "cause and effect" signifies a fundamental relationship where a cause manifests into an effect, highlighting interconnectedness in actions, events, and entities, illustrating the philosophical interdependence of knowledge, happiness, and the universe's occurrences.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The principal concept examined in the discussion, focusing on whether causes can exist without their respective effects and vice versa.[40] (2) A principle describing the relationship between actions and their outcomes, which can create experiences of suffering or misery.[41] (3) A relationship in relative existence that leads to changes such as birth and decay, which the true nature of the Self transcends.[42] (4) The relationship between an event (the cause) and its consequence (the effect), which is critically examined in the context of birth.[43] (5) A philosophical concept discussing the relationship between an outcome (effect) and its origin (cause) that raises questions about mutual dependence.[44]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This refers to the relationship where one thing (the cause) leads to another (the effect), but their distinction is considered to be a practical one in the context of enjoyers and objects of enjoyment, as non-difference or identity between them is understood.[45] (2) These are related things, where one brings about the other, and their interconnectedness is emphasized, with the effect observed when the cause exists, illustrating their interdependence.[46] (3) The relation of cause and effect is discussed, particularly in the context of how the Vedantins establish this relationship and how their approach differs from others.[47] (4) A relationship where Brahman, devoid of qualities, is the cause of the world and the effect with its qualities, and is elaborated on in a specific section.[48] (5) This concept is illustrated through the analogy of a piece of cloth, where the effect, the cloth itself, is not different from its cause, the threads, implying a fundamental non-differentiation between the two states.[49]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A fundamental relationship in which one entity (the cause) is understood to produce another entity (the effect), pertinent to the jiva and Ishvara.[50] (2) The philosophical concept conveyed in the text, suggesting that the effect (the world) is non-different from its cause (Hiranyagarbha).[51] (3) The principle that the actual existence of a thing (the cause) is what constitutes its reality, while its modifications (the effects) are considered illusory.[52] (4) The relationship in which an effect is dependent on a cause, indicating that without a cause, transcending an effect is not plausible.[53] (5) A relationship where one entity is the result of the action of another, as seen in the interactions between anna and prana.[54]
From: Mandukya Upanishad
(1) The principle that every effect has a specific cause and is often viewed as a reality of existence.[55] (2) A fundamental principle indicating that every effect has a cause, and conversely, every cause produces an effect.[56] (3) A fundamental principle that describes how one event (the cause) leads to another event (the effect), emphasizing the relationship between the two.[57] (4) The principle that suggests every action or event (cause) leads to a subsequent event (effect).[58] (5) A fundamental principle where an event (cause) leads to a subsequent event (effect), which is absent in the context discussed.[59]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The relationship where the existence of one thing (the cause) leads to the existence of another (the effect), illustrated through the example of gold and its effects such as earrings.[60] (2) Brahman is characterized as having no known cause or effect, distinguishing it as unique and unmatched.[61] (3) A fundamental principle that explores the relationship between an action (cause) and its resulting implication (effect), significant in philosophical discourse on existence.[62] (4) The relationship between a factor that produces an effect, and the resultant effect, wherein the cause is seen as prior and distinct from the effect.[63] (5) A foundational principle in philosophy that describes the relationship between Brahman as the cause and the manifested realities as effects.[64]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) The word ‘couple,� or ‘pair,� is being used to suggest a relationship of cause and effect.[65] (2) The relationship illustrating how one event leads to another, mirrored in the cycle of life and sustenance.[66] (3) Cause and effect; refers to Brahman being understood in dual aspects, as both the origin of all things and the manifestation of all attributes.[67] (4) The concept of Om being both the cause and effect highlights its dual role in initiating rituals and being the source of benefits received from these rituals.[68] (5) A principle that explains how the Self (the cause) manifests into the physical world (the effect) through a transformation process.[69]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The relationship in which Brahman is inferred as the cause of the world based on the perceived effects, which are the universe and its phenomena.[70] (2) The principle that actions (Sadhana) produce results (destruction of good and evil), which is reflected in the teachings of sacred texts.[71]
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The foundational concepts of creation and perception that bind the soul to the cycle of illusion until they are transcended.[72] (2) The fundamental principle by which actions lead to corresponding outcomes, binding entities such as Vishva and Taijasa.[73]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The relationship of cause and effect is illustrated through the analogy of the man and his shadow, symbolizing how Prana relates to the atman and the body.[74] (2) A relationship that explores the connection between actions and their outcomes, especially in the context of the senses and their functions.[75]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The relationship where the perception of a cause, such as Fire, leads to the notion that a corresponding effect, like rain, will occur.[76]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) The fundamental relationship where a cause precedes the effect in the context of creation.[77]
From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The philosophical concept relating to the relationship between events where one is the result of another.[78]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) The principle where one event (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another event (the effect), with the notion that the effect can also function as a cause in a higher context.[79]
From: Kathopanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) The principle of causation that governs the universe, delineating the relationship between actions and their consequences.[80]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The relationship where one event (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another event (the effect), indicating that the cause produces the effect.[81] (2) A fundamental relationship where a cause (hetu) brings about an effect, which can occur in either favourable or unfavourable circumstances.[82] (3) Refers to the relationship between the manifestation of the word and the resulting states of consciousness.[83] (4) The relationship where one event (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another event (the effect).[84] (5) The relationship between events where one (the cause) leads to the other (the effect), which can become complex under certain philosophical views.[85]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The fundamental principle that every event or effect originates from a specific cause, underpinning the nature of existence.[86] (2) The relationship where both the cause and its effect share the same essence despite superficial differences.[87] (3) Om denotes two states of existence: the cause (dynamic) and the effect (energy), further differentiated into the gross and subtile effects.[88] (4) A philosophical concept that refers to the relationship between actions and their outcomes, often misinterpreted.[89]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The principle where actions (causes) lead to results (effects), experienced as good and evil based on one’s deeds.[90] (2) The principle by which the deity is acknowledged as the origin of all actions and their results.[91] (3) A philosophical principle debated among the characters, particularly regarding who is responsible for actions and their consequences in the context of the story.[92]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The principle that actions produce corresponding outcomes in the universe.[93]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The principle that actions have consequences, a theme elucidated by Rama regarding punishment and moral conduct.[94]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Friendship or enmity is bounded with each other by a distinct chain of cause and effect (self-interest).[95]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) A philosophical concept highlighting Narayana's role in both the creation (cause) and the dissolution (effect) of the universe.[96]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The relationship between the knowledge of the glories of the gopis (cause) and the practice of bhajana (effect) in devotional service.[97] (2) A philosophical principle illustrated in the text to explain the relationship between performing austerities and attaining spiritual outcomes.[98] (3) The distinction between knowledge (cause) and happiness (effect), despite their intrinsic oneness.[99] (4) Karana (cause) is be perceived as superior to karya (effect), implying that happiness from causes is greater than from effects.[100] (5) The dual nature of Maya where she acts as both the origin (karana) and result (karya) of the perceived illusory world.[101]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A relationship where one event (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another event (the effect) and is relevant in the context of transformation into rasa.[102] (2) A relationship where one element (cause) leads to another element (effect), specifically in the context of emotional responses.[103]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Highlights the relationship between Naranan's ordaining of actions and their outcomes in the universe.[104]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The philosophical concepts referred to by Shri Krishna illustrating the dynamics of existence (sat and asat), with Him as the ultimate reality beyond these.[105]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) An important philosophical principle underpinning the Sankhya and Yoga systems, linking thoughts and actions to their outcomes in the cycle of existence.[106] (2) A relationship where the modifications of qualities influence perceptions, highlighting the interconnectedness of cognition and the observable universe.[107] (3) The relationship that raises questions about whether cognition or objects serve as the origin of perceptions, exploring the implications of differences in outcomes.[108] (4) The relationship between causes and effects is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of simultaneity and relation in understanding the processes that lead to different states of existence.[109] (5) A principle where one event (the cause) leads to another event (the effect); in this context, it refers to the processes that link desires to their resulting actions.[110]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The principle that the cause must be of the same class as the effect; in this context, the cause for the seedless trance must be devoid of objective phenomena.[111] (2) Cause and effect illustrates the relationship between concentration, meditation, and trance, where each state generates the subsequent one.[112]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) The relationship between events where one event (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another event (the effect).[113]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The principle that an action (cause) leads to a consequence (effect), relevant in understanding moral actions.[114] (2) The relationship between actions and their corresponding outcomes; foundational to many aspects of logic and philosophy.[115] (3) A relationship denoted by the genitive in the compound 'buddhindriyanam', illustrating how the organs produce sensations.[116]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) The relationship whereby one event (the cause) leads to the occurrence of another event (the effect).[117] (2) The relationship between actions (causes) and their outcomes (effects), crucial for understanding the arguments involving the soul.[118]
Jain concept of 'Cause and effect'
In Jainism, Cause and effect describes how actions lead to consequences in jiva's experiences, emphasizing the relationship between events and the soul's interactions, ultimately asserting that actions determine specific outcomes rooted in intention and characteristic.
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The principle in which the projectable body brings about outcomes that are interlinked with its own characteristics and intentions.[119] (2) A principle explaining the relationship between events, where one event is the result of another, particularly relating to the understanding of the soul's interactions with bodies.[120] (3) The relationship that indicates how actions lead to consequences in the context of jiva's experiences.[121]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The principle that actions (causes) lead to specific outcomes (effects), which Svayambuddha uses to argue against the notion that illusion can provide real utility.[122]
The concept of Cause and effect in local and regional sources
Cause and effect, rooted in Karmic law, illustrates the interconnectedness of actions and their consequences, highlighting personal responsibility and the limitations of will. It emphasizes understanding one's actions and their spiritual implications in shaping existence.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The relationship between actions and their consequences, as explained during the lecture, which forms a central tenet of the Karmic law discussed.[123] (2) This concept explains that every action is linked to a consequence, creating a continuous chain of events that shapes existence, as explained in the text.[124] (3) Cause and effect are considered Maya, suggesting that the relationship between events is an illusion, and we shall grow to understand that all we see is disconnected.[125] (4) This concept represents a set of walls, which cannot be surpassed, that irrevocably bind the whole experience, illustrating the interconnectedness of events.[126] (5) The free must certainly be beyond this, as everything connected with matter is in nature, and, therefore, bound for ever, as it is stated.[127]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The relationship between events where one event leads to the emergence of another, especially in human emotions.[128] (2) A fundamental relationship where one event (the cause) directly leads to another event (the effect), used in the argumentation surrounding karma.[129] (3) The principle that actions lead to specific outcomes, emphasizing personal responsibility in one’s happiness.[130] (4) The philosophical principle that Khayyam believes governs the universe, disregarding divine intervention.[131] (5) The principle that every action has consequences that directly relate to the action taken.[132]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The relationship between actions taken and their consequences, particularly concerning spiritual experiences and realizations.[133]