Tiantai, also known as the Tendai school, is a Mahayana Buddhist school that originated in China and was founded by the Chinese monk Zhiyi in the 6th century. At the core of Tiantai teachings is the concept of the Lotus Sutra, which is considered to be the ultimate teaching of the Buddha. Tiantai views karma as an essential aspect of this teaching and emphasizes its importance in understanding the nature of reality.

According to Tiantai, karma is the law of cause and effect, which states that every action, thought, and intention has a corresponding consequence. This concept is based on the Buddhist principle of dependent origination, which states that all phenomena are interconnected and arise from causes and conditions. Therefore, Tiantai teaches that karma is not just limited to one's actions, but also includes one's thoughts, intentions, and even the environment in which one lives.

Tiantai also emphasizes the importance of understanding the threefold truth of karma, which includes the principle of dependent origination, the principle of emptiness, and the principle of the Middle Way. These three truths are interdependent and form the basis of Tiantai's view of karma. The principle of dependent origination explains how all phenomena arise from causes and conditions, including karma. The principle of emptiness teaches that all phenomena are ultimately empty of inherent existence, and therefore, karma is not a fixed or permanent entity but is subject to change. The principle of the Middle Way emphasizes the importance of avoiding extreme views and finding a balanced understanding of karma.

Tiantai also teaches that karma is not only limited to individual actions but also has a collective aspect. This means that the actions of one person can have an impact on the collective karma of a group or society. This is why Tiantai emphasizes the importance of cultivating positive actions and intentions, as they can have a ripple effect and contribute to the well-being of society as a whole.

Furthermore, Tiantai teaches that karma is not a form of punishment or reward, but rather a natural consequence of one's actions. This means that one's actions and intentions will ultimately determine the nature of one's future experiences. However, Tiantai also emphasizes the importance of understanding the concept of emptiness, as it teaches that karma is not a fixed or predetermined destiny, and one has the ability to change their karma through awareness and cultivation of positive actions and intentions.

In conclusion, Tiantai views karma as an essential aspect of the Lotus Sutra and emphasizes its importance in understanding the nature of reality. It teaches that karma is not just limited to individual actions but also has a collective aspect, and that it is not a form of punishment or reward but a natural consequence of one's actions. By understanding the threefold truth of karma and cultivating positive actions and intentions, one can ultimately change their karma and contribute to the well-being of oneself and society as a whole.