Reincarnation and the Law of Karma / A Study of the Old-New World-Doctrine of Rebirth, and Spiritual Cause and Effect

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26364

Title

Reincarnation and the Law of Karma / A Study of the Old-New World-Doctrine of Rebirth, and Spiritual Cause and Effect

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This text explores the ancient and universal doctrine of reincarnation, defining it as the soul's journey through multiple lives governed by the Law of Karma. It examines historical perspectives from Egypt, Greece, India, and the West, arguing that spiritual evolution is a natural law rather than arbitrary divine intervention. The work invites readers to understand their present circumstances as the result of past actions and to view life as a continuous process of moral and spiritual growth toward ultimate good.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Reincarnation and the Law of Karma*, William Walker Atkinson presents a comprehensive study of metempsychosis, the doctrine that the soul is an immortal entity persisting beyond physical death. Atkinson argues that the soul does not perish with the body but reincarnates into new forms, governed by the immutable Law of Karma. This law ensures strict justice, where an individual's current circumstances—whether wealth, health, or suffering—are direct results of their past actions and character, rather than random chance or arbitrary divine decree. Atkinson traces this belief through ancient civilizations, noting its presence in Egyptian, Hindu, Greek, and Jewish traditions, asserting it is a fundamental truth of the human race. He details the soul's journey between lives, describing a period of rest on higher astral planes where the soul assimilates experiences before seeking new incarnations to gain further wisdom. The text addresses common objections, such as the claim that reincarnation is un-Christian or pagan, by framing it as a scientific and philosophical explanation for the inequality of human conditions. The author emphasizes that the universe is governed by natural laws where everything works for the ultimate good. There is no evil force, only fear and unfaith. Atkinson concludes that the soul's final state is one of absolute bliss or union with the Divine, achieved through endless progression. He encourages readers to focus on the present moment, doing their best with kindness, and trusting that the cosmic machinery is steering them toward a perfect end. The book asserts that the soul is the heir of all ages, responsible for its inheritances, and that there is nothing to fear, for the Law of Cause and Effect ensures that all beings eventually attain the state of Being-Wisdom-Bliss Absolute.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy