Healing Through Soul Journeys: Past Lives and Purpose

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I’ve been exploring gilgul—the soul’s journey through multiple lifetimes.

The Hebrew word gilgul (גִּלְגּוּל) literally means “cycle” or “rolling,” and in Jewish mystical thought, it refers to gilgul neshamot (גִּלְגּוּל נְשָׁמוֹת)—the concept of soul reincarnation. It is the idea that a soul can return to the world multiple times in different bodies to complete its spiritual mission, correct past mistakes (tikkun), or achieve higher levels of refinement.

In Kabbalah and Chassidic teachings, gilgul is seen as a way for the soul to continue its journey toward perfection, carrying lessons and experiences from one life into the next.

Unlike the Eastern concept of reincarnation, which often focuses on breaking free from the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and achieving liberation (moksha or nirvana), the Jewish understanding of gilgul neshamot sees reincarnation as a process of spiritual refinement, not an endless cycle.

A soul returns only if it has unfinished spiritual work—whether to correct past mistakes (tikkun), fulfill a mission, or elevate itself further. However, the ultimate goal is not to keep returning. Once a soul has achieved its rectification and fulfilled its divine purpose, it no longer needs to reincarnate and can instead dwell in Olam HaBa (the World to Come), experiencing true closeness to God.

The term past-life regression is often used to describe the process of accessing memories from previous lives through guided techniques such as hypnosis or meditation. Popularized by Dr. Brian Weiss, this practice suggests that unresolved experiences from past lifetimes can shape our present relationships, fears, and emotional patterns.

But rather than focusing on regression, I see it as soul journey exploration—a way to uncover wisdom my soul has carried into this life. What lessons have I learned before? What strengths do I bring with me? How can I use this knowledge to grow and heal?

I remember standing in Yad Vashem, the Holocaust museum here in Israel, seeing the wooden bunks from the concentration camps, and feeling something much deeper than words—a memory not from this lifetime but from my soul’s journey. The emotions that surfaced were not just historical empathy; they were lived experience.

I read the book I’ve Been Here Before by Sara Yoheved Rigler, as if my soul knew I needed it. The book shares real-life stories of people who have vivid, unexplained memories of past lives—especially those connected to the Holocaust. Through a Jewish perspective, Rigler explores the idea that past-life memories can surface when a soul has unfinished business, offering an opportunity for healing and spiritual growth.

I leave it on my desk as a quiet reminder: I have been here before. It helps me keep perspective—not to take life too seriously, but also to recognize the things that truly matter. Healing doesn’t mean dwelling in the past; it means carrying its wisdom into the present.

A soul may be allowed to retain or access past-life memories for several reasons, often connected to its spiritual mission and healing process:

1. Facilitating Tikkun (Spiritual Rectification) – If a soul needs to correct past mistakes or complete unfinished work, memories may surface to guide it toward the lessons it must learn or the relationships it must mend.
2. Healing from Past Trauma – Some people experience deep fears, anxieties, or emotional wounds that seem to have no explanation in their current life. Accessing past-life memories can provide clarity, allowing for healing and self-compassion.
3. Recognizing Important Soul Connections – When souls reincarnate together to continue their journey, past-life memories can help individuals recognize key relationships and understand their deeper significance.
4. Strengthening Faith and Purpose – Remembering past experiences can reinforce a sense of divine purpose, helping a person align with their mission in this lifetime. It can also serve as a reminder that life is part of a greater, interconnected journey.
5. God’s Will and Individual Soul Needs – Not everyone is given access to past-life memories, as it may not serve their current spiritual growth. When a person does remember, it’s often because those insights are necessary for their unique soul journey.

These memories aren’t given as a distraction but rather as tools for spiritual awakening, growth, and healing in the present life.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe emphasized action and purpose over dwelling on the past. He taught that the key to life is knowing why our soul is here now and what we are meant to do in each moment. While past-life exploration can offer insight, true healing comes from living with intention—through mitzvot, personal growth, and connection to others.

Yet, sometimes our soul’s mission is simply to slow down. Maybe, at this moment, my purpose is to walk through the garden, breathing in the scent of lavender and rosemary, or to be fully present with my children. Understanding past patterns helps me cultivate self-love and compassion, but what truly matters is what I do with that awareness now.

Part of that wisdom is learning to play, to have fun in this lifetime. Maybe my soul once knew only survival, but now it is here to learn joy.

Action Steps:

1. Reflect on your soul’s journey – What recurring themes, strengths, or challenges show up in your life?
2. Stay present and purposeful – Instead of getting lost in the past, focus on what your soul is meant to do today.
3. Use past wisdom for healing – Recognize patterns with compassion and choose actions that align with your higher purpose.
4. Engage in mitzvot and meaningful actions – The best way to fulfill your soul’s mission is through kindness, learning, and connection.

If you feel called to explore your soul’s purpose and uncover the deeper connections shaping your journey, let’s embark on this path of discovery together.

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