A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PLATONIC IDEA OF SOUL AND THE CHRISTIAN BELIEF IN LIFE AFTER DEATH

Abstract

The concept of the soul and its journey post-mortem has intrigued philosophers and theologians for centuries. This article provides a comparative analysis of Plato's philosophical conception of the soul and Christian doctrines concerning life after death. Plato’s dualistic understanding of the soul emphasizing its immortality and preexistence is juxtaposed with the Christian theological framework, which integrates the soul's eternal destiny with divine judgment and resurrection. By exploring primary texts and critical commentaries, the study highlights similarities, such as the shared belief in the soul’s immortality, and differences, particularly regarding the soul’s relationship with the body and the nature of its ultimate fate. The article concludes with reflections on the enduring relevance of these perspectives in contemporary discussions about spirituality and metaphysics.