Bible and reincarnation: Do we believe in a second chance in life?

Bible and reincarnation: Do we believe in a second chance in life?

Philippinen, Philippinen - Oliver Janich, an investigative journalist and author, put the provocative thesis in his book "The Open Secret" that the Bible contains the teaching of reincarnation. This view could surprise many people because reincarnation is traditionally rejected in Christian teaching. In his argument, Janich refers to the work "In the Light of Truth" by Abdrushin, which propagates the rebirth as a central element. He examines the plausibility of this conviction and refers to scientific knowledge, in particular the research of Professor Ian Stevenson, who works at the University of Virginia. Stevenson has examined numerous children who remembered earlier life, and his results suggest that there are serious indications of reincarnation that should not be ignored.

There are particularly striking reports from Thailand in which children were born with birthmarks who are right where deceased people were marked in their previous lives. Janich also presents examples of children who know precise details about their previous life, which further fuels the discussion about rebirth. The journalist criticizes sharply that the teaching of rebirth has been removed from the Christian faith. He is convinced that awareness of rebirth and karma could influence people's behavior in a positive way.

reincarnation versus Christianity

The discussion about reincarnation is not only philosophical, but also deeply rooted in religious conviction. According to Gotquestions , reincarnation literally means "embody" again and refers to the rebirth of a soul in a new body. This idea is supported by many religious and philosophical systems, while it turns out to be unable in the Jewish-Christian tradition. The Bible mentions that people die once and then stand in court (Hebrew 9:27), which contradicts the belief in reincarnation.

The belief that a soul returns to a new body after death is contrasting to the foundations of Christianity. This is underpinned by Bible passages such as Lukas 23.43, in which Jesus assures the criminal on the cross that he will "be in paradise with me today", which implies no possibility of rebirth or a second chance. In Matthew 25.46, too, a distinction is made between eternal life for believers and the eternal punishment for unbelievers.

The relevance of reincarnation in other cultures

During the belief in reincarnation in Christian theology, it is of central importance in Indian religions such as Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism. These beliefs promote the idea that souls are born in new forms, regardless of whether they are people or animals. The concept of mental development and the eternal nature of the soul is fundamental and can be found in many modern movements such as the New Age.

Finally, it can be said that the discussion about reincarnation is not only theologically but also culturally diverse. Janich's charges against the oppression of this teaching within Christianity stimulates thinking and could trigger a broader debate between different beliefs and philosophical currents in the future. Further information on this topic is also available in Gym-hartberg