Reincarnation

Fr. Thomas Keating began by discussing the theory of reincarnation and rebirth, drawing on three major religious traditions—Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity. He elaborated on his points through his extensive reading and research on the topic, ultimately offering his Catholic theological perspective. While he compared the suffering of Christ to the concept of the Bodhisattva in Buddhism (acknowledging some differences), his presentation was rationalistic, using terms like “collective consciousness,” “mystical body,” and “purification/purgatory.” However, I align more with what Zen philosophers say on the subject (as quoted by Fr. Keating)—that it’s futile to discuss matters on which no one can offer a definitive, universal answer. Instead, we should live our lives and be prepared based on our individual beliefs. This is my summary of the Zen philosophy Fr. Keating shared, though not his exact words.

Rebirth or reincarnation is a subject with a wide variety of perspectives, drawn from religious texts and so-called scientific research. While we can certainly learn from these views, I believe it is more important to develop our own understanding based on the faith we are committed to, rather than critiquing others’ beliefs. For instance, the Hindu doctrine of rebirth doesn’t alter my convictions formed through my understanding of Mukti Veda. To me, salvation—or “mukti”—is not something achieved after death but something to be experienced while living in this mortal body. What happens after my death is not my concern. It is not something I need to dwell on, as it is left in God’s hands. As Zen philosophy suggests, I would rather live in the present and be prepared for whatever comes after death than let my convictions be influenced by others’ views—no matter how scientific, mystical, or rational they may seem.

Many years ago, someone asked me, “What will happen after death?” I replied, “Why don’t you die first and come back to tell me what happened?” All the near-death experiences that Fr. Keating shared, such as those related to the “communion of saints” (from a Catholic viewpoint), are personal experiences, and while they are meaningful to some, they do not affect my belief in salvation through the Lord.

Fr. Keating did an excellent job of presenting his perspective in a way that anyone can understand. However, I see it as an attempt to offer a rationalistic interpretation of Catholic theology, based on thorough research.

For those who want to explore the subject further, I recommend reading:

– Gananath Obeyesekere, Karma and Rebirth, Delhi: Motilal Banarsidass, (2002), First Indian edition, 2006.

– Wendy Doniger, Karma and Rebirth in Classical Indian Traditions, Motilal Banarsidass Publishers, Delhi, (1983), Reprint 1999.

The key distinction that must be noted is that the doctrine of “rebirth” is fundamentally different from what Fr. Keating describes in terms of purgatory or near-death experiences. While he has likely studied Hinduism thoroughly and I commend him for his reflections, there is minimal compatibility between the Hindu concept of rebirth and his Catholic theology or the near-death experiences he shares. Thus, when drawing on the doctrines of other faiths to support one’s view, it is essential to first recognize these basic differences.

29-03-2021

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