Robin Gile Lisa Lenard

Reincarnation, also known as rebirth or transmigration, is the belief that the non-physical essence of a living being begins a new existence in a different physical form following biological death. This concept posits that the soul, mind, or consciousness is immortal and does not cease to exist but rather moves into a new body, which can be human, animal, or even a spiritual entity, depending on the belief system. The term itself originates from Latin, meaning 'entering the flesh again,' with Greek equivalents like 'metempsychosis' and 'palingenesis' also used.

While a core tenet of Indian religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, reincarnation also appears in various esoteric traditions, including certain streams of Judaism (like Kabbalah), pagan religions (including Wicca), and indigenous beliefs. Historically, figures like Pythagoras, Socrates, and Plato in ancient Greece also discussed the soul's rebirth. Despite its prevalence in many spiritual paths, most mainstream Abrahamic religions do not subscribe to this belief, though specific sects within them, like the Druze and Rosicrucians, do incorporate it.

The origins of reincarnation are not definitively known, but discussions appear in the philosophical traditions of Ancient India. The concept is a central tenet of Indian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, where it is known by terms like 'punarjanman.' In these traditions, reincarnation is viewed as part of a continuous cycle of existence known as 'Saṃsāra,' which continues endlessly unless spiritual liberation is achieved. Early Vedic texts, particularly the Upanishads, detail the development of these ideas, challenging earlier notions of simple heaven/hell afterlives based on merit. The goal in these traditions is often liberation from this cycle through ethical living and spiritual practices, referred to by terms like 'moksha' or 'nirvana.'

Reincarnation manifests as an esoteric belief in various spiritual streams beyond major Eastern religions. It is found in certain branches of Judaism, notably Kabbalistic Judaism with its concept of 'Gilgul neshamot' (cycle of souls), and in some pagan traditions like Wicca. Ancient Greek philosophers such as Pythagoras, Socrates, and Plato are noted for their beliefs in the soul's migration or rebirth. In more recent times, there has been a growing interest in reincarnation among Europeans and North Americans, influencing contemporary thought and literature. Specific groups within Abrahamic religions, including the Alawites, Hasidic Judaism, the Druze, and the Rosicrucians, also incorporate beliefs related to reincarnation.

The core idea of reincarnation involves an immortal, non-material essence—be it the soul, mind, or consciousness—continuing after physical death. The form of this rebirth varies significantly across cultures and belief systems, potentially manifesting as a human, animal, plant, spirit, or being in another non-human realm. While the Latin term 'reincarnation' literally means 'entering the flesh again,' the Greek term 'metempsychosis' refers to the change or migration of the soul. Jainism and Hinduism posit an eternal soul ('jiva'/'atman') that transmigrates based on accumulated karma, while Buddhism asserts 'anatta' or 'no-self,' suggesting a continuity of consciousness rather than a fixed soul. Liberation from this cycle is a common ultimate spiritual goal across these traditions.