Which religious tradition is most commonly associated with the belief in karma?

Buddhism is the religious tradition most commonly associated with the belief in karma. Karma, which translates to "action" in Sanskrit, refers to the law of moral causation, where an individual's actions in this life and past lives influence their future rebirths and experiences. This concept is integral to Buddhist teachings, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and intention behind actions. In Buddhism, karma shapes the cycle of samsara, or the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, highlighting the necessity for individuals to act with compassion and mindfulness to attain enlightenment and liberation from this cycle.

While other religions, such as Hinduism, also embrace the concept of karma, the question specifically focuses on Buddhist association. Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have different theological frameworks that do not emphasize karma in the same way and instead focus on teachings related to sin, redemption, and divine judgment.