In reality it could be said that karma occurs each time an act is not fully inspired by divine wisdom & love, which is the case most of the time

From the moment we perform an act we inevitably release certain forces, which in turn will inevitably produce certain results. It is this concept of cause and effect that is contained in the word ‘karma'. This word has subsequently taken on the meaning of payment for a transgression committed. In reality it could be said that karma (in this second sense of the word) occurs each time an act is not fully inspired by divine wisdom and love, which is the case most of the time. But human beings experiment and have to practise. These experiments are somewhat crude and clumsy, but this is not important. They must correct themselves, put right their mistakes, and of course in order to obtain these results they struggle and suffer. You will say: ‘But surely it is better not to do anything, if by acting we inevitably make mistakes and will have to suffer to put them right.' No, you must act. Obviously you will suffer, but you will also learn, you will evolve, and then one day you will suffer no longer. When you will have learnt to act correctly, when all your actions, all your words are inspired by goodness, purity, and total lack of self-interest, they will not induce karma, but will attract beneficial consequences. And this is referred to as ‘dharma'.