In Mahāyāna Buddhism, the concept of karma is viewed as an important aspect of the spiritual path towards enlightenment. However, the Mahāyāna perspective on karma differs from that of Theravāda Buddhism, which is often referred to as the "lesser vehicle."

In Mahāyāna, karma is seen as a complex and multifaceted concept that goes beyond just cause and effect. It is believed that every action we take, whether physical, verbal, or mental, has the potential to create karma. This karma can either be positive or negative, depending on the intention behind the action.

One of the key differences in the Mahāyāna view of karma is the emphasis on the intention behind an action rather than just the action itself. This is because Mahāyāna teaches that the ultimate goal is to cultivate compassion and wisdom, and not just to follow a set of moral rules. Therefore, even if an action may seem negative on the surface, if the intention behind it is pure and compassionate, it can still create positive karma.

Furthermore, Mahāyāna also teaches that karma is not just limited to individual actions, but it also encompasses the collective actions of a community or society. This is known as "collective karma" and it emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings. Therefore, Mahāyāna encourages individuals to not only focus on their own personal karma but also to be mindful of the impact their actions may have on others.

In addition to this, Mahāyāna also teaches that karma is not a fixed or predetermined force. It is believed that through the practice of compassion and wisdom, individuals have the ability to transform and purify negative karma. This is known as "skillful means" and it highlights the importance of actively working towards creating positive karma through our thoughts, words, and actions.

Moreover, Mahāyāna also emphasizes the role of the bodhisattva path in relation to karma. Bodhisattvas are seen as beings who have attained a high level of spiritual realization and have made a vow to help all beings achieve enlightenment. Therefore, their actions are motivated by compassion and the desire to alleviate the suffering of others, rather than personal gain. This selfless attitude towards karma is seen as a crucial aspect of the bodhisattva path.

In conclusion, the Mahāyāna view of karma is a holistic and compassionate one. It emphasizes the importance of intention, interconnectedness, and the power of transformation through skillful means. By understanding and practicing karma in this way, Mahāyāna practitioners strive towards the ultimate goal of enlightenment and the liberation of all beings from suffering.