Glossary / Lexicon

Transmigration of the soul refers to the Dionysiac-Orphic belief that because of some transgression, the soul is compelled to dwell in one earthly prison after another until it is purified. The transmigration may find the soul at various times in plants, animals, and humans as it seeks redemption.

In psychology, transmigration of the soul refers to the belief that the soul or spirit of a deceased person can be reborn in a new body or form. This belief is often associated with reincarnation and is found in many cultures and religions around the world.

Here are some examples of how transmigration of the soul is used in the psychology context:

• Hinduism and Buddhism: In Hinduism and Buddhism, the concept of transmigration of the soul is central to the belief in reincarnation. It is believed that the soul, or atman, is reborn into a new body after death, based on the actions and karma of the previous life.

• Plato's philosophy: In Plato's philosophy, transmigration of the soul is known as metempsychosis. He believed that the soul is immortal and can be reborn into a new body after death.

• Psychical research: Some researchers in the field of psychical research have investigated claims of past-life memories and experiences, which they believe provide evidence for transmigration of the soul.

• Near-death experiences: Some people who have had near-death experiences report feeling as though they have left their body and had an out-of-body experience. Some believe that these experiences provide evidence for the transmigration of the soul.

Overall, transmigration of the soul is a complex and multifaceted concept that has been explored in many different contexts within psychology. While it is not widely accepted as a scientifically valid concept, it continues to be a topic of interest and investigation for many researchers in the field of psychology and related disciplines.