Exploring the Concept of the Soul in Some Answered Questions:

About: This study examines ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s exploration of the human soul in Some Answered Questions, situating it within the rich dialogue between religion, philosophy, and modern science. The text presents a nuanced view of the soul as both an emergent and transcendent reality, bridging material and spiritual dimensions of existence. Drawing on Greek philosophy, Islamic metaphysics, and contemporary scientific discourse, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá redefines the soul as the organizing principle of human faculties — rationality, consciousness, and moral perception—while affirming its independence and immortality beyond bodily existence. His treatment reconciles historical dualisms between body and soul, challenges reductionist materialism, and introduces a dynamic framework for understanding spiritual evolution. The work also offers insights into the psychological, ethical, and social implications of the soul, proposing a form of spiritual psychology that integrates empirical research with moral and metaphysical dimensions of human experience. The relationship between the soul and faith is framed as transformative, guiding individual and collective progress toward a unified global civilization. Furthermore, discussion of dreams, near-death experiences, and the persistence of moral influence after death expands the discourse on consciousness and immortality beyond purely scientific paradigms. Ultimately, this inquiry highlights the relevance of Some Answered Questions as both a response to modern metaphysical anxiety and a philosophical bridge that harmonizes reason, science, and spiritual insight. It underscores the soul’s role as a catalyst for cultural renewal, ethical action, and the continuous quest for meaning in an evolving civilization. (from academia.edu)