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Kalpas

Symbolically, it represents an unimaginably long period of time.

Karma

Basically, the law of cause and effect, to which all sentient beings, indeed, all things, are subject. Also, the cumulative causal situation affecting one's destiny as a result of past acts, thoughts, emotions.

Karmic Affinity

A bond or connection between people due to a relationship (either good or bad) formed in a previous life. Frequently such an affinity is discussed in terms of "causes and conditions." Cause focuses on the specific karmic disposition of the individual; conditions refer to the nexus of causes that make up his situation.

Karmic Obstruction

Hindrances to one's practice or life arising specifically as a result of deeds performed in this life or in past lives.

King Yama

In popular Chinese belief, a king and judge of the dead who dispenses punishments to the recently deceased while they reside in a transitional, purgatory-like netherworld awaiting their next rebirth. According to orthodox Buddhism, a netherworld of this kind does not exist.

Kṣitigarbha

(Chinese: Ti-tsang, "earth store") Bodhisattva known for his great vows to liberate all sentient beings, even descending into the hell realm in order to lead the beings there out of suffering.