Executive Summary: Karma of Breaking a Promise (Defaulting on Merit)
A case study from the Dream in Dream Kindergarten illustrating the damaging effects of breaking a promise, specifically making a vow to perform a meritorious deed and then backing out due to stinginess. This results in sudden and devastating loss of wealth just when success seems guaranteed.
1. A Shattered Vow
In a past life, this man was a merchant seeking business success. He made a solemn vow before the main Buddha image in a temple, promising, “If this business venture yields massive profits, I will sponsor the construction of the new monastic hall.” However, when his business succeeded beyond his wildest dreams, stinginess (Macchariya) overcame him. Regretting the potential loss of his wealth, he broke his vow, canceled his donation, and distanced himself from the temple. This act of breaking his word and defaulting on a merit offering severely damaged his Perfection of Truthfulness (Sacca Parami).
2. The Retribution of Karma
- Sudden Wealth Destruction: In his current life, the karma allows him to achieve initial business success. However, right as he reaches the pinnacle, his wealth vanishes suddenly and catastrophically—through fires, storms, or massive fraud. This mirrors how his promised merit was built up and then suddenly aborted.
- Missing Crucial Opportunities: Whenever great opportunities arise, they inexplicably slip through his fingers at the very last second. He might be about to receive a promotion or sign a major contract, only for the deal to be suddenly canceled, reflecting his own cancellation of the temple project.
- Total Loss of Credibility: The karma of breaking a vow ensures that nobody trusts him. His words carry no weight, making negotiations and business dealings incredibly difficult and prone to failure.
3. Spiritual Solutions
Luang Por Dhammajayo teaches that the Perfection of Truthfulness is vital. Allowing stinginess to override a wholesome intention cuts off one’s own merit, leading to unstable and easily destroyed wealth (Vibati Sombat). Anyone who has made this mistake must immediately establish a new vow to perform good deeds and keep their word flawlessly. They must practice generosity to conquer stinginess and apologize to the Triple Gem, diluting the karma so that future wealth remains stable and permanent.
