Significance of Guna and karma
Guna and karma are significant concepts in various Indian philosophical and scientific traditions, representing qualities and actions that shape individuals and substances. In the context of Purana, they define the inherent traits and duties that determine the social roles of individuals. Vaisheshika distinguishes between stationary qualities (guna) and transient actions (karma). In Ayurveda, Guna and karma describe the properties and therapeutic effects of substances, guiding health benefits and treatments, influenced by the intrinsic qualities of plants and herbal remedies.
Synonyms: Nature, Character, Quality, Disposition, Action, Deed, Effort, Activity, Work
In Dutch: Guna en karma; In Finnish: Guna ja karma; In Spanish: Guna y karma; In German: Guna und Karma
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Guna and karma'
In Hinduism, Guna represents inherent qualities, while Karma signifies transient actions. Together, they explain individual behaviors and destinies, and are foundational in Lord Krishna's creation of the four varnas, reflecting the interplay of traits and actions.
From: Padarthadharmasamgraha and Nyayakandali
(1) Types of properties within the categories: Guna refers to stationary qualities, while Karma refers to actions that are evanescent.[1]
The concept of Guna and karma in local and regional sources
Guna and karma encompass the inherent qualities and actions of individuals, which collectively determine their appropriate social roles and responsibilities in society based on regional interpretations.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The combinations of inherent qualities (guna) and actions (karma) of individuals that should guide their social roles and responsibilities.[2]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These are the principles upon which the caste system is based, and it also means grave harm if one bent on going beyond these cherishes in mind any caste distinctions.[3]