Reincarnation: 3. ROMANS & GREEKS - William Walker Atkinson (1908)

Reincarnation and the Law of Karma - by William Walker Atkinson (1908)

"Reincarnation and the Law of Karma," written by William Walker Atkinson in 1908, is a thought-provoking exploration of the ancient concepts of reincarnation and karma, delving into their philosophical, spiritual, and ethical implications. Atkinson, a prominent figure in the New Thought movement, presents these ideas with the intention of offering a deeper understanding of the human experience and the soul's journey through multiple lifetimes.

The book begins with a historical overview of reincarnation, tracing its roots through various ancient civilizations, including Egypt, India, Greece, and early Christianity. Atkinson highlights how the belief in reincarnation has been a central tenet in many of the world’s religions and philosophical systems, from Hinduism and Buddhism to Pythagoreanism and the esoteric teachings of early Christian mystics. This historical perspective serves to illustrate the universality and persistence of the idea across different cultures and epochs.

Atkinson then delves into the mechanics of reincarnation, discussing how the soul, an eternal and indestructible entity, undergoes a series of births and deaths, each life serving as a learning experience. He posits that each reincarnation is influenced by the actions and decisions of previous lives, which ties directly into the concept of karma. Atkinson explains karma as a universal law of cause and effect, where every action—whether good or bad—inevitably brings about corresponding results. This process of karma ensures that individuals are responsible for their own spiritual evolution, with each life offering opportunities to balance and correct past mistakes, leading the soul toward higher states of consciousness.

One of the key themes of the book is the idea of spiritual justice, which Atkinson argues is inherent in the law of karma. He contends that the apparent inequalities and injustices observed in the world—such as differences in wealth, health, and happiness—can be understood as the results of actions from past lives. According to Atkinson, this cosmic justice system provides a framework for understanding the moral order of the universe, where nothing happens by chance, and every soul is on a unique path of growth and self-discovery.

Atkinson also addresses common objections to the concept of reincarnation, such as the lack of conscious memory of past lives. He suggests that while the physical brain may not retain these memories, the soul carries the experiences and lessons learned from each incarnation. These subconscious influences shape an individual’s character, talents, preferences, and instincts in subsequent lives, contributing to the complexity and richness of human personality.

In addition to his philosophical discussions, Atkinson provides practical advice for readers interested in aligning their lives with the principles of reincarnation and karma. He emphasizes the importance of living ethically, cultivating positive thoughts and actions, and striving for spiritual growth. By doing so, individuals can create favorable karma and progress more rapidly on their spiritual journey.

"Reincarnation and the Law of Karma" is not merely a scholarly treatise; it is also a guide for those seeking to understand their place in the cosmos and the deeper purpose of their existence. Atkinson's clear and accessible writing makes complex metaphysical concepts understandable, offering readers a profound perspective on life, death, and the eternal journey of the soul. Through this work, Atkinson invites readers to reflect on their own lives, encouraging them to embrace a path of self-improvement and spiritual awakening.

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