Divine retribution is an expression that refers to punishment or revenge carried out by a supernatural force or deity. The concept of divine retribution is widespread across religious traditions, and many synonyms exist that are used to refer to this idea. Some examples include karma, which is a Hindu and Buddhist concept of the universal law of cause and effect, Nemesis, a Greek goddess who represents retribution, and fate, the force that determines a person's destiny. Other terms that can be used as synonyms for divine retribution include recompense, restitution, punishment, and retribution. Regardless of the terminology used, the idea of divine justice is an essential element of many religious beliefs and practices.