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How does Shaktism incorporate the concept of karma into its beliefs?

Shaktism is a major branch of Hinduism that focuses on the worship of the Divine Mother, also known as Shakti or Devi. This form of worship is centered around the belief in the feminine aspect of the divine and the power of the goddess to create, sustain, and destroy the universe. In Shaktism, the concept of karma plays a significant role in understanding the relationship between the individual and the Divine Mother.

Karma, which translates to "action" or "deed," is a fundamental concept in Hinduism that refers to the law of cause and effect. It is believed that every action, whether good or bad, has a consequence that will manifest in this life or the next. Shaktism incorporates this concept of karma into its beliefs by emphasizing the role of the Divine Mother as the ultimate dispenser of karma.

According to Shaktism, the Divine Mother is the source of all energy and power in the universe. She is the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of all things. As such, she is also responsible for the distribution of karma to all living beings. This means that every individual's actions are ultimately judged and rewarded or punished by the Divine Mother.

In Shaktism, the concept of karma is closely tied to the idea of dharma, which refers to one's duty or righteous action. It is believed that by following one's dharma and performing good deeds, an individual can accumulate positive karma and improve their chances of a better life in the future. On the other hand, negative actions will result in negative karma and may lead to suffering in this life or the next.

Shaktism also teaches that the Divine Mother can intervene in an individual's karma and provide them with the necessary guidance and protection to overcome their negative karma. This is where the practice of devotion and worship comes into play. By surrendering to the Divine Mother and seeking her blessings, devotees can lessen the impact of their negative karma and attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Furthermore, Shaktism also incorporates the concept of reincarnation, where the soul is believed to take multiple births until it achieves liberation. In this belief, karma plays a crucial role in determining the circumstances of an individual's next birth. By performing good deeds and following one's dharma, an individual can accumulate positive karma and be reborn into a better life.

In conclusion, Shaktism incorporates the concept of karma into its beliefs by emphasizing the role of the Divine Mother as the ultimate dispenser of karma. It teaches that every action has a consequence, and it is through following one's dharma and seeking the blessings of the Divine Mother that one can overcome negative karma and attain liberation.