The Results of Negative Actions
The results of these negative actions can be divided into three: the fully
ripened effect, the effect similar to the cause, and the environmental effect.
The Fully Ripened Effect The relative gravity of negative actions depends on specific factors such as their motivation, object, time, and frequency. Thus, the worst negative actions result in rebirth in the hells, less serious ones result in rebirth as a hungry spirit, and the least serious lead to rebirth as an animal, with the respective experiences of suffering described in the previous chapter. The Close Mindfulness Sutra states: The fully ripened effect of the least serious negative actions is rebirth among animals. That of more serious ones is rebirth among the hungry spirits. That of the worst ones is rebirth in the hells.
The Effect Similar to the Cause EXPERIENCES SIMILAR TO THE CAUSE
Taking life results in one’s having a short life. As a result of stealing, one will be short of possessions. Sexual misconduct results in one’s having numerous enemies. From lying, one will often be criticized and belittled. As a result of sowing discord, one will quarrel with one’s companions. Because of one’s harsh speech, everything one hears will be unpleasant. On account of worthless chatter, one’s words will lack authority. As a result of covetousness, one’s wishes will never be accomplished. Harmful intentions will result in one’s always being afraid. Wrong views will result in one’s being stupid and confused. This is stated in the Jewel Garland as follows: Take life, and you will have a short life, Take what is not given, and you’ll be deprived of wealth, Commit adultery, and you’ll have enemies, From telling lies, you will be much criticized, By sowing discord, you’ll be parted from your friends, Speak harshly, and you’ll hear unpleasant things, From worthless chatter, nothing you say will command respect, Covet things, and all your hopes will be shattered, Harbor malice, and fear will be your lot, From holding wrong views, you’ll meet wrong views.79
ACTIONS SIMILAR TO THE CAUSE
Having performed certain actions in past lives, one subsequently takes birth as a being who enjoys and indulges in those deeds, as is explained in the Hundred Parables on Action: