Dependent Origination

Law of Causation

Shakyamuni Buddha regarded this universe as the result of the relation between cause and condition by which all phenomena are produced (dependent origination). Causation means a cause and a condition combining to produce an effect and reward. In this physical world, there is nothing unchangeable or fixed in form.

All things have a direct cause. When this comes into contact with a condition or opportunity, the result of this contact appears as a phenomenon or effect. This effect leaves behind traces – reward (impression). This is the way Shakyamuni Buddha interpreted all things in the world.

The combination of cause and condition leads every action to have an effect and recompense. When a cause does not come into contact with a condition, or when a cause has been extinguished, it does not produce an effect and reward. Therefore, in this physical world there is nothing existing in an eternal, fixed, and unchangeable form.

When we acknowledge that we are “cause” in our lives, not only are we never a victim, we are empowered to live in harmony with Universal Truth. We have the opportunity to create a positive approach to life by being aware of each moment and making life choices that are a result of knowing the Dharma.