From the Collective Unconscious to the Transcendent Truth: A Critique of Jung’s Reincarnation Theory in Light of Hikmat Muta'aliyah

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Level 4 Scholar of Islamic Philosophy, Navab Higher Seminary Khorasan Seminary, Mashhad, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Philosophy and Wisdom, Faculty of Theology and Islamic Studies, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.

3 Researcher at the Islamic Research Foundation, Mashhad, Iran

10.30471/psy.2025.11007.2321

Abstract

The concept of reincarnation has long been debated among various cultures, thinkers, and religions, each interpreting it according to their beliefs. Opposing views arise from monotheistic religions and philosophical schools. Carl Gustav Jung’s theory of archetypes has been linked by some to reincarnation. This study examines Jung’s perspective using a library-based descriptive-analytical method. Findings reveal that Jung viewed archetypes as foundational elements of the collective unconscious, shaping human behavior and experiences through symbols and imagery. He posited that the collective unconscious comprises inherited memories from past generations, manifesting as myths, stories, and symbols across cultures. However, the research concludes that Jung’s framework lacks a clear explanation of the soul-body relationship and a coherent ontological system. His analyses remain confined to psychological constructs, unable to transcend the human mind and body. Ultimately, Jung frames human existence within mental archetypes, suggesting survival only in the realm of the unconscious mind’s symbolic patterns.

Keywords

Studies in Islam and Psychology

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 November 2025

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