Reconciling Afterlife Concepts of Major Religions Through the Cosmological Model of a Cyclic Universe

Abstract

Religious beliefs are significant determinants of public mental health. In the era of globalization, assessing the state of such beliefs across different regions of the world is crucial. While most believers accept the central tenets of their faith, some seek rational justifications for religious messages. This quest is reflected in the works of classical philosophers. The authors of the article argue that perhaps the most profound doubt arises from considering whether the beliefs about the afterlife held by Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and Shintoists can be simultaneously regarded as valid. According to the authors, most believers view these beliefs as contradictory and recognize deep philosophical differences that shape the spirituality of billions of people in various regions of the world. The authors present their original speculative argument, suggesting that these contradictions can be reconciled by interpreting views on the fate of individuals after death based on the currently popular cosmological model of a cyclically regenerating universe. They justify each step of their reasoning by referencing works by psychologists, philosophers, physicists, and cosmologists published in reputable journals. The authors claim that understanding their argument has practical significance as it may reduce the fear of death and facilitate community building. Conversations and sometimes even belief in the existence of life after death provide many individuals with a sense of meaning and purpose, which can help them cope with existential crises and the loss of loved ones. The authors believe that their article's content may be particularly useful for certain professional groups, such as nurses, doctors, staff in facilities caring for the elderly, critically ill individuals, and hospice personnel.