Reincarnation (ree in kar NAY shun)
Reincarnation is the belief or concept that a living being’s soul, spirit, or consciousness is reborn into a new body after death.
In general usage, the definition of reincarnation refers to the process of coming back to life in another form, often as another human but sometimes as an animal or spiritual being. The meaning of reincarnation can also be used metaphorically to describe something that has been revived, renewed, or brought back in a new version.
- Reincarnation – is the belief that a living being’s essence, often referred to as the “soul,” survives death and is reborn into a new physical body. (Ebsco.com)
- Reincarnation – also known as rebirth or transmigration, is the philosophical or religious concept that nonmaterial essence of a living being begins a new lifespan in a different physical form or body after biological death. (Wikipedia.org)
- Reincarnation – in religion and philosophy, rebirth of the aspect of an individual that persists after bodily death—whether it be consciousness, mind, the soul, or some other entity—in one or more successive existences. (Britannica.com)
How To Pronounce Reincarnation
- The correct pronunciation of reincarnation is ree in kar NAY shun.
- It has five syllables and is commonly stressed on the fourth syllable, “nay.” Breaking it down can make it easier to say:
- ree in car nay shun
Knowing how to pronounce reincarnation correctly is important when using it in conversation, public speaking, or academic discussions. Because the word often appears in spiritual and philosophical contexts, clear pronunciation helps communicate its definition and meaning accurately.
Main Definitions Of Reincarnation
The definition of reincarnation varies slightly depending on cultural, religious, and symbolic use. Below are the most important meanings of reincarnation.
Religious And Spiritual Definition
In religion and spirituality, reincarnation means that a soul or spirit is reborn into a new physical body after death. This definition of reincarnation is central to belief systems such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. These traditions teach that life is part of a cycle known as samsara, where the soul continues to be reborn until it reaches enlightenment or liberation.
The meaning of reincarnation in this context is deeply tied to karma, which is the idea that actions in one life influence what happens in the next life.
Philosophical Definition
In philosophy, reincarnation refers to the theory that personal identity or consciousness can survive death and continue in another form. Philosophers have debated the definition and meaning of reincarnation for centuries, questioning whether memory, personality, or awareness can truly transfer from one life to another.
This version of reincarnation focuses less on religion and more on the nature of existence and the self.
Figurative Or Symbolic Definition
In everyday language, the definition of reincarnation can be symbolic. It can describe something that has been revived or renewed in a different form. For example, a new version of a classic movie might be called a reincarnation of the original story. In this sense, the meaning of reincarnation is not spiritual but metaphorical.
Reincarnation In A Sentence
Learning how to use reincarnation in a sentence helps clarify its definition and meaning. Below are examples showing different ways the word can be used.
- Many people believe in reincarnation and think the soul lives multiple lives.
- According to ancient teachings, reincarnation allows the spirit to learn lessons over time.
- She described her new career as a reincarnation of her childhood dreams.
- The novel explores reincarnation and the idea that love can last across lifetimes.
- Some cultures teach that reincarnation depends on a person’s actions in their previous life.
- The artist saw his latest work as a reincarnation of an old style with modern elements.
- Their traditions say reincarnation continues until enlightenment is achieved.
- The movie was a creative reincarnation of a well known myth.
- He questioned the scientific basis of reincarnation but found the idea fascinating.
- The teacher explained reincarnation in a sentence that everyone could understand.
Using reincarnation in a sentence can be literal or figurative. Both uses rely on understanding the definition and meaning of reincarnation in context.
Etymology Of Reincarnation
The word reincarnation comes from Latin roots. It is formed from three main parts:
- re meaning again
- in meaning into
- caro or carn meaning flesh or body
Combined, these parts create the meaning “to enter the flesh again.” This etymology directly supports the definition of reincarnation as returning to a physical body after death.
The word entered the English language in the seventeenth century as scholars began translating religious and philosophical texts from Latin and Greek. Over time, its meaning expanded to include figurative uses related to renewal and transformation.
History Of The Word And Concept
The concept of reincarnation is far older than the English word itself. Ancient civilizations believed in some form of rebirth long before the modern definition of reincarnation was established.
Ancient India
The earliest written references to reincarnation appear in ancient Indian texts such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. In these works, the meaning of reincarnation is tied to karma and dharma. A person’s actions determine their future rebirth.
Ancient Greece
Greek philosophers such as Pythagoras and Plato discussed reincarnation as part of their views on the soul. Plato believed the soul could be reborn into another body as part of a cycle of learning and purification. This philosophical definition of reincarnation influenced later Western thought.
Early Christianity And Middle Ages
Early Christian thinkers debated reincarnation, but it was eventually rejected as official doctrine. However, the word continued to appear in mystical and philosophical writings. During the Middle Ages, the idea survived mainly in secret or alternative belief systems.
Modern Usage
In modern times, reincarnation is discussed in religion, psychology, literature, and popular culture. Books, movies, and television shows frequently explore the definition and meaning of reincarnation as a way to explain fate, memory, and identity.
Additional Information About Reincarnation
Reincarnation is closely connected to ideas of moral responsibility. Many belief systems teach that how a person lives now will affect their future life. This gives the meaning of reincarnation an ethical dimension.
In psychology, some researchers study children who claim to remember past lives. While these claims remain controversial, they continue to shape public interest in reincarnation.
In literature, reincarnation is often used as a storytelling device. Characters may remember former lives or encounter people they knew in previous existences. This adds emotional depth and explores themes of destiny and love.
The definition of reincarnation also appears in self help and spiritual movements, where it symbolizes personal growth and renewal. In these cases, the meaning of reincarnation is less about literal rebirth and more about transformation.
Why The Definition And Meaning Of Reincarnation Matters
Understanding the definition and meaning of reincarnation helps people explore questions about life after death, purpose, and identity. It also helps explain why this word appears in religious texts, novels, and conversations about spirituality.
When used figuratively, reincarnation shows how language evolves. A word that once referred only to spiritual rebirth now also describes new beginnings and revived ideas.
Whether someone believes in reincarnation literally or symbolically, the term continues to shape how people think about change and continuity.
FAQ
What Is The Simple Definition Of Reincarnation?
The simple definition of reincarnation is the belief that a soul or spirit is reborn into a new body after death.
How Is Reincarnation Used In A Sentence?
Reincarnation in a sentence can describe spiritual rebirth or metaphorical renewal, such as calling a redesigned product a reincarnation of the original.
Is Reincarnation A Religious Concept?
Yes, reincarnation is central to several religions, especially Hinduism and Buddhism, but it is also discussed in philosophy and culture.
What Is The Origin Of The Word Reincarnation?
The word comes from Latin roots meaning “to enter the flesh again,” which reflects its core definition and meaning.
Can Reincarnation Be Used Figuratively?
Yes, reincarnation can describe anything that returns in a new form, such as art, fashion, or ideas.
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