Reincarnation

Reincarnation is a philosophical or religious concept that an aspect of a living being starts a new life in a different physical body or form after each biological death. It is also called rebirth or transmigration and is a part of the Saṃsāra doctrine of cyclic existence.

Origins and concepts

Reincarnation is a central tenet of the Indian religions and most varieties of Paganism, Spiritualism, Theosophy, and Anthroposophy. It is also found in many tribal societies around the world, in places such as Siberia, West Africa, North America, and Australia.

Reincarnation in different religions

Hinduism

In Hinduism, the soul is considered immortal and reincarnation is viewed as the transmigration of the soul from one body to another. The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara, is considered to be an opportunity to progress spiritually and ultimately attain moksha or liberation.

Buddhism

Buddhism also believes in the concept of reincarnation, but it differs from Hinduism in its interpretation. Buddhists believe in the cycle of death and rebirth but do not believe in the existence of a permanent self or soul that reincarnates.

Jainism

In Jainism, reincarnation is seen as part of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Jains believe that the soul accumulates karma as it goes through this cycle, and the type of life it will lead in the next birth is determined by the karma it has accumulated.

Scientific research

There have been numerous claims of past-life experiences and reincarnation, and some have been subject to scientific investigation. However, the scientific community does not generally accept reincarnation as a fact, as it is not amenable to scientific methods of investigation.

See also

• Afterlife
• Karma
• Rebirth (Buddhism)
• Soul

References

Reincarnation Resources
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