Reincarnation in Hinduism

According to Hinduism the journey of life on earth is a path that takes place over and over again until one attains perfection and is able to unite or become one with the Divine being. The concept was first defined in India in the Upanishads, ancient Hindu scriptures, between the 5^th and 7^th centuries.

The doctrine states that when the material body dies it returns to the elements of the earth. The Soul, however, ascends either into the heavens or into hell according to the sort of actions and behaviors that were experienced while living on earth. While in these worlds the Soul will either repent for its sins or learn new lessons that will be of use when it returns to the earth for a new birth. The next body the Soul will come into is also determined by the state of mind that a being was in at the time of death. This new birth is not only restricted to being re-born as a human being but also includes animals and plants. All of these things have a life and thus, a Soul.

The goal of reincarnation is to reach perfection. So, it has been asked if reincarnation ever stops.

There are ways to stop the cycle of birth and death and reach "mukti" or liberation. It is most important to give up habits that get in the way of your subtle body and mind. One's being is exhausted by material desires that are chased after in an earthly life. The biggest obstacles are greed, ego, jealousy, ambition, and the need for power. Lusting after these things is shallow and only damages the Soul. Searching for gratification or contentment in material things such as wealth, status, beauty, and youth is trivial and will only hinder your progression in reaching the Divine. It is crucial that in order to reach God you must treat your body as a living temple. Once you are able to do this and let go of material needs you will be free to clear your mind and focus on attaining the ultimate goal, God.

"Therefore, I fall prostrate and offer salutations to Thee; worthy Lord, I seek Thy grace; Thou should bear with me as father does with son, as friend with friend, as lover with his beloved." (XI-44).