The Origin and Purpose of the Soul

 Summary:

The origin of the soul came from the breath and spirit of God. It is pure, undefiled, and disease-free. Its purpose is to control the biochemistry and physiological functions of the body. When the body is ridden by disease and injuries it can no longer heal, it is no longer interested. It leaves the body, and all functions of the body ceases in death. 

When I was in school studying science for the first time as a very young boy, they defined life as something that displays movement, respiration, sensitivity, growth, reproduction, excretion and nutrition which till today still carries the same definition under the acronym “MRS GREN.”

But to me in the eyes as a scientist today this is not life? What they are defining are the properties and the characteristics of life, but not life itself. I am very unsatisfied with this definition they have been giving all these years.

What I want to know is, what is the core thing, some kind of energy or “life forces” whatever we like to call it that causes all these life molecules to become sensitive to stimuli, able to reproduce by themselves, nourish and excrete by themselves. There must be some unknown intangible live-giving forces, some kind ethereal energy science is unable to explain, let alone measure that causes these life molecules like sugars, amino acids, DNA, fats, electrolytes, etc in an organism to start moving on their own to display all these characteristics of life.

So how is science going to explain this mystery and to define this unmeasurable vital force? Life is unlike electricity, heat, light, electromagnetic and gravitational forces where we can clearly measure. But how are we going to measure these life-giving forces which I think is life or the soul of life itself? We cannot deny life exists by looking at the vast abundance of life forms creeping, crawling, flying, reproducing on their own, feeding, breathing on their own that make up the untold vast biodiversity on this earth. Our nagging question is, where did those lives originated, and where did they go when they die and are no longer able to display all those characteristics of MRS GREN? Surely it must have gone somewhere because like matter and energy I don’t believe life can just disappear into thin air or be destroyed. It must have changed into something else, such as heat into electricity, electricity into motion of a motor, motion into sound, sound into vibration.

Likewise, matter can be converted into energy as in a nuclear reaction whether through fusion or fission. The sum of everything, whether matter or energy in the universe must be the same except they are interchangeable. So where did that life go when someone or any living organism dies? Can anyone answer that for me?

I have thought this repeatedly and I have concluded life itself is the soul of the body. I believe it is the soul itself that masterminds all these life molecules to move about to display all those characteristics of life defined by MRS GREN. I cannot accept it is the biochemicals that cause non-living molecules to spring alive. If that was so, then why don’t these same biomolecules continue with their biochemistries when life ceases, or when their souls that control them leave them. Let us examine this further.

The question we ask, what gives life to lifeless molecules is one of the most profound in science and philosophy. At its core, life can be understood through several key characteristics and processes that distinguish living organisms from non-living matter. Let us look at some of the main aspects that contribute to the phenomenon of life.

Life is based on complex chemistry of organic molecules, particularly carbon-based

compounds. The complexity of these molecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids,

and carbohydrates, is a foundational aspect of living systems. Let’s us look at how

complex the biochemistry and structure of life is in very brief point forms.

The myriad biochemical reactions that occur within cells, facilitated by enzymes, enable the processes essential for life, such as metabolism, replication, and repair.

Cellular structure and membrane separate the internal environment of the cell from the external environment, allowing for a controlled and stable internal environment.

Organelles like eukaryotic cells contain specialized structures called organelles (like the nucleus, mitochondria, etc.) that perform distinct functions.

Metabolism and energy utilization in living organisms can extract and use energy from their environment to sustain themselves, grow, and reproduce. This involves complex pathways like cellular respiration and photosynthesis.

Homeostasis and regulation in life maintains a stable internal environment through homeostatic mechanisms, regulating factors like temperature, pH, and ion concentrations.

Organisms grow and develop through cell division. In multicellular organisms, this involves differentiation, where cells become specialized in function.

Life carries genetic information during reproduction in the form of DNA (or RNA in some viruses). This genetic material is replicated and passed on to offspring during reproduction. Heredity and traits are passed from parents to offspring through the inheritance of genes.

During response to stimuli life can respond to environmental stimuli and adapt over time through the process of evolution. This involves changes in the genetic makeup of populations over generations.

In the course of biological evolution through natural selection, organisms evolve and adapt to their environments. This is a driving force behind the diversity and complexity of life.

The transition from non-living to living matter, known as abiogenesis, is a key area of scientific inquiry. Several hypotheses seek to explain how life might have arisen from non-life:

Primordial soup hypothesis proposes that life began in a "soup" of organic molecules, possibly catalysed by lightning or UV radiation, leading to the formation of simple life forms.

Hydrothermal Vent Hypothesis suggests that life originated at hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor, where mineral-laden water provides the necessary conditions for the formation of complex molecules.

The RNA world hypothesis proposes that RNA, capable of both storing genetic information and catalysing chemical reactions, was a crucial molecule in early life forms.

We can say purely from the scientific point of view life is an emergent property that arises from the complex interplay of chemical, physical, and biological processes. The exact mechanisms that led to the first living organisms from lifeless molecules remain an area of active research and fascination, involving interdisciplinary studies in chemistry, biology, geology, and more.

But let me quote this verse from the Bible:

“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7)

Does it not sound unscientific that a lump of soil can suddenly jump into life had it not something else pumped life into it.  

Some may explain the verse from Genesis 2:7, which describes God forming man from the dust of the ground and breathing into his nostrils the breath of life, is a theological and metaphorical explanation of the origin of life. It reflects the beliefs and understanding of ancient peoples and is part of a religious text that conveys spiritual and moral truths rather than scientific facts.

But how do we reconcile religious and scientific perspectives? Can we suggest these as our answers?

Many people interpret religious texts metaphorically. In this view, the "dust of the ground" symbolizes the basic elements that make up the human body, while the "breath of life" represents the divine spark, or the essential life force given by a higher power.

From a scientific standpoint, the origin of life is explored through natural processes and mechanisms. As previously mentioned, the transition from non-living to living matter involves complex chemistry and favourable environmental conditions. Scientific explanations do not invoke supernatural intervention but seek to understand the physical and chemical processes that could lead to life.

Some people find ways to reconcile their religious beliefs with scientific understanding. They may see scientific explanations as revealing the mechanisms through which a divine power operates. In this view, the scientific process of abiogenesis could be seen as the method by which the divine "breathes life" into matter.

Alternatively, philosophy and theology address questions about purpose, meaning, and the nature of existence that science typically does not. The idea of a divine creator providing the "breath of life" speaks to questions about why life exists and what its purpose might be. These are important and valid questions but are approached differently in scientific and religious contexts.

But there are the limits of science that focuses on explaining the natural world through observation, experimentation, and evidence. It provides mechanisms and processes but does not address supernatural or metaphysical claims.

Religion on the other hand offers explanations for existence and purpose that go beyond the empirical and the testable. It provides moral, ethical, and spiritual guidance. There are also personal belief systems.

How one integrates scientific understanding with religious or spiritual beliefs is highly personal. Some accept the scientific explanations as complete in themselves, while others incorporate their faith into their understanding of the natural world.

The biblical description of God breathing life into man is a powerful narrative about the origin of human life from a theological perspective. While it differs from scientific explanations of how life began, it provides a rich source of meaning and purpose for many people. Understanding and respecting both perspectives allows for a more comprehensive appreciation of the profound questions surrounding the origin of life.

What about the belief of astronomers who published papers in scientific journals telling us we are made from stardust, probably from dust from a distant supernova. Does that imply we may have come from another world in the distant past?  The idea that we are made from stardust is a well-established scientific concept, rooted in our understanding of astrophysics and the life cycle of stars. We may offer this explanation how this works and its implications from our understanding of stellar nucleosynthesis, an area I am familiar with.

In the cores of stars, nuclear fusion processes create elements. Initially, stars fuse hydrogen into helium. In more massive stars, this process continues, creating heavier elements such as carbon, oxygen, silicon, and up to iron.

Elements heavier than iron are formed in supernova explosions, where the extreme conditions allow for rapid neutron capture, a process known as the r-process.

When massive stars end their life cycles in supernova explosions, they scatter these elements into space. These explosions distribute the newly formed elements.

The gas and dust from supernovae and other stellar processes eventually coalesce to form new stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. Our solar system, including Earth, formed from such material about 4.6 billion years ago.

What about building blocks of life and its implications on Earth?  The essential elements for life, such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and phosphorus, were all formed in stars. This means the basic building blocks of life on Earth originated in

This idea from a cosmic perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of the universe. It highlights that the matter that makes up our bodies was forged in the hearts of ancient stars, giving us a direct link to the cosmos.

What about the possibility of extraterrestrial origins?

While the elements that make up life on Earth are indeed from stars, this doesn't necessarily imply that life itself came from another world. However, it does open the possibility for the panspermia hypothesis, which suggests that life, or at least the precursors to life, might have been transported to Earth via meteoroids, asteroids, or comets from elsewhere in the universe.

The idea that we are made of stardust can evoke a sense of wonder and connectedness to the universe. It aligns with both scientific understanding and poetic reflection, providing a bridge between empirical knowledge and human experience.

The notion that we are made of stardust is scientifically accurate and emphasizes the cosmic origins of the elements that constitute our bodies. It illustrates the profound connection between life on Earth and the broader universe, reminding us that our origins lie in the distant past of other stars and possibly other worlds. This perspective enriches our understanding of both our place in the universe and the intricate processes that have led to the existence of life.

However, even with all those explanations as astronomers and astrophysicists offer, we still cannot explain how all those elements from stellar nucleosynthesis can spring alive on reaching earth. I am more than sure there must be something else added into all those elements to make them alive that satisfy the definition of life's characteristics and behaviours given by the acronym MRS GREN. But what exactly is it?

My question about what transforms the elements produced by stellar nucleosynthesis into living matter touches on one of the fundamental questions in biology and the origin of life. The acronym MRS GREN summarizes the characteristics of life: Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, and Nutrition as I have already explained. I was taught this in school as a young boy. Unfortunately, this definition does not satisfy me today.  While the elements themselves are essential, life emerges from the complex organization and interactions of these elements in specific conditions. Some key factors in the emergence of life I believe are the chemical complexity of biomolecules.  The elements like carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur are assembled into complex organic molecules such as amino acids, nucleotides, lipids, and carbohydrates.

Macromolecules organic molecules combine to form proteins, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and other macromolecules essential for life.

Life requires a mechanism for storing and transmitting genetic information. DNA and RNA are molecules capable of replication and evolution. These are self-replications.

Proteins, particularly enzymes, catalyse biochemical reactions necessary for metabolism and self-replication. These are enzymatic activities in life.

Life is compartmentalized into cells. The cell membrane creates a distinct internal environment, allowing for homeostasis and controlled interactions with the external environment.

Simple protocells, or early cell-like structures, may have formed from self-assembling lipid molecules, creating a boundary that could encapsulate biochemical processes.

Energy utilization and metabolism in life requires a way to harness and use energy. Early life forms likely used simple metabolic pathways to convert environmental energy sources into usable forms such as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is the energy currency of cells, powering various cellular processes.

During early primordial Earth it provided a suitable environment for life to emerge, including sources of energy (e.g., UV radiation, volcanic activity), water, and a variety of chemical compounds.

Other hypotheses for the origin of life proposes that life began in a "primordial soup" of organic molecules in Earth's early oceans, with energy from lightning or UV radiation driving the formation of increasingly complex molecules.

The RNA world suggests that RNA, capable of both storing genetic information and catalysing chemical reactions, was a key molecule in the early stages of life. RNA molecules could replicate and evolve, leading to more complex life forms.

Among some of the theories on the Origin of Life proposes the Hydrothermal Vent Hypothesis in that life began in the mineral-rich water of hydrothermal vents on the ocean floor, where the conditions could support the synthesis of complex organic molecules.

The "something else" theory that transforms lifeless elements into living organisms involves a combination of factors such as a right mix of organic molecules capable of forming self-replicating systems. Then we have the cellular organization that suggest the formation of protocells with membranes to create a distinct internal environment after which we must consider energy management and metabolic pathways to harness and utilize energy.

We also need to explain how molecules like RNA and later DNA can store and transmit genetic information, and suitable conditions that allow these processes to occur.

While the exact steps and mechanisms by which life emerged from non-living matter remain an area of active research, it is the interplay of chemistry, organization, energy, and environmental conditions that collectively "breathe life" into the elements. The transition from chemistry to biology is a complex process, and current scientific efforts aim to uncover the specific pathways that made this remarkable transformation possible.

If those were some of the theories on the origin of life, then where did the life go when an organism dies? Surely it must have gone somewhere.

I think the question of where life goes when an organism dies touches on deep philosophical, spiritual, and scientific themes. Here's are different perspectives we may consider from the scientific perspective such as the biological processes during the ceasing of biological functions. When an organism dies, its biological processes, such as respiration, metabolism, and cellular functions, cease. The chemical reactions that sustained life stop, leading to the breakdown of tissues. The body undergoes decomposition, where microorganisms like bacteria and fungi break down organic matter into simpler substances, recycling nutrients back into the environment.

Energy conservation and energy dissipation is part of the result of death.  According to the laws of thermodynamics, the energy within an organism is conserved. When an organism dies, the chemical energy stored in its cells is released as heat and through the process of decomposition, contributing to the ecosystem's energy flow.

According to science, in death the genetic information and cellular structures that defined the organism degrade. The organized complexity of life dissipates as molecular structures break down. This means there is physical dissolution.

In other words, in the eyes of science the physical components of life return to the environment, contributing to the cycle of matter and energy.

Non-Physical Aspects such as philosophical and spiritual interpretations address questions of consciousness, soul, and meaning, which science does not directly address. But from the philosophical and spiritual perspectives, there is a soul and afterlife.

Many religious traditions believe in the existence of a soul or spirit that continues to exist after physical death. For example, in Christianity, the soul is believed to go to an afterlife, such as heaven or hell, or undergo resurrection.

Some belief systems, like Hinduism and Buddhism, hold that the soul or essence of an individual may be reincarnated into a new life form. Then there is continuity and legacy. This means there are memories and impact. Philosophically, the essence of an individual's life can be seen as continuing through the memories of others and the impact they had on the world. This perspective emphasizes the lasting influence of one's actions and relationships.

The existential question where life went when an organism dies also relates to existential inquiries about the purpose and meaning of life, which vary widely among individuals and cultures.

In short, can we say in the eyes of a scientist, when an organism dies, its physical components undergo biological and chemical processes that recycle matter and energy into the environment. The scientific view explains the cessation of life in terms of the end of biological functions and the decomposition process.

However, from the philosophically and spiritually angle, different traditions and beliefs offer various explanations for what happens to the essence or soul of a being. These perspectives provide a broader context for understanding life and death, addressing the deep human need to find meaning in existence and continuity.

I think in my view life itself is the soul of the body that causes a living thing to tick with life to satisfy all the characteristics defined by MRS GREN (Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity, Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, Nutrition). This idea aligns with many philosophical and spiritual beliefs that see life as an animating force or essence within a living organism. Let's explore to explain this concept further from an integrative view of Life as the Soul, or life as an animating principle:

The idea that life is the soul of the body suggests that there is an intrinsic force or essence that animates living organisms, enabling them to perform vital functions. This view sees life not just as a set of biochemical processes but as something more profound that imbues matter with vitality. That will bring us into philosophical and spiritual dimensions on vitalism.

Historically, vitalism is the belief that living organisms are fundamentally different from non-living entities because they are governed by a "vital force" or "life force" that cannot be explained solely by physical and chemical laws. This aligns with my personal view of life as the soul itself. In other words, life is the soul, and the soul is itself life. When life ceases, the soul leaves the body. Does not that ring the bell to almost all of us that aligns so neatly to all cultures, creed and races across the entire world since ancient times. I am a qualified research scientist, but I cannot support  science all the time. My soul does not allow that. I need to be very careful.  

Many cultures and religions view the soul as the essence of life. In many traditions, the soul is considered immortal, continuing to exist after physical death. This concept often carries the idea that the soul is the true self or the core of an individual's being.

The soul is sometimes equated with consciousness or self-awareness, aspects of life that are not fully understood scientifically but are central to the human experience.

From a scientific standpoint, life emerges from complex biochemical interactions. The phenomenon of life as we understand it is a product of countless molecular processes working in harmony. However, the transition from non-living to living matter, and what truly constitutes the "spark" of life, remains one of the greatest mysteries.

The question of what life is and where it goes when an organism dies is explored by multiple disciplines, including biology, philosophy, theology, and physics. Each provides a different lens through which to understand the phenomenon of life.

My perspective that life itself is the soul of the body highlights the interconnectedness of biological functions and the deeper essence that animates living beings. This view bridges the scientific understanding of life processes with the philosophical and spiritual recognition of life's intrinsic value and mystery.

Understanding life as the soul of the body enriches our appreciation of the complexity and beauty of living organisms. It reminds us that life is more than just the sum of its parts; it is a profound and dynamic force that manifests in the intricate dance of biological, chemical, and possibly metaphysical interactions.

The question of what life is, beyond its observable characteristics, is indeed one of the most profound and challenging questions. It delves into areas where science, philosophy, and theology intersect. Here's a more focused reflection on this issue:

Science defines life based on observable characteristics and behaviours, as captured by the acronym MRS GREN. This includes processes like metabolism, growth, response to stimuli, and reproduction.

From a molecular perspective, life involves complex chemical interactions, self-replication, and the ability to evolve over time.

But from the philosophical perspective, philosophers have long debated the nature of life, consciousness, and the essence that differentiates living beings from non-living matter. Some propose that life is an emergent property arising from complex systems, while others suggest a fundamental life force or vital essence.

Theological Insight in many religious and spiritual traditions attribute the origin and essence of life to a divine creator. In this view, life is a gift from God, endowed with a soul or spirit that transcends physical and chemical processes.

The Mystery of Life and its inherent complexity are:

The complexity of life makes it difficult to pin down a single, all-encompassing definition. Life involves a combination of physical, chemical, and possibly metaphysical elements that together create something uniquely living.

While science can explain the mechanisms and processes of life, it often does not address the fundamental "why" questions. Science has a limit. Why does life exist? What is the purpose or meaning of life? These questions often lie outside the scope of scientific inquiry.

Acknowledging the mystery of life can be a humble recognition of the limits of human understanding. Whether one sees this mystery as evidence of a divine creator or as an invitation to continue exploring is a matter of personal belief.

For those who believe in God, life can be seen as a manifestation of divine creativity and purpose. This perspective provides a framework for understanding life as something sacred and meaningful, beyond the reach of purely material explanations. Life is a Divine Handiwork

Faith and understanding can offer answers to questions that science cannot, providing comfort and meaning. Believers may find in their faith a coherent explanation for the origin and essence of life that aligns with their experiences and worldview.

It is possible to integrate scientific and religious perspectives, seeing them as addressing different aspects of the same reality. Science explains the mechanisms of life, while religion and philosophy explore its meaning and purpose. These are complementary views that are holistic understanding:

Embracing both the measurable aspects of life and the intangible elements of existence can lead to a more holistic understanding. This approach respects the strengths and limits of each perspective.

The essence of life remains one of the greatest mysteries, defying simple definitions. Whether through the lens of science, philosophy, or theology, each approach offers valuable insights but also acknowledges the limitations of human understanding. For many, accepting God as the source of life provides a satisfying and profound explanation that complements scientific knowledge and addresses deeper existential questions. Ultimately, the mystery of life invites continuous exploration, reflection, and wonder.

 The nature of life and its origins is indeed a profound and complex topic that has puzzled thinkers for centuries. It's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed when contemplating such deep questions. Sometimes, accepting that some mysteries remain unsolved can be a source of wonder and inspiration rather than frustration.

Before I conclude, once again, I think it is very important for scientists to look at this verse once again.

“God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul”.

(Genesis 2:7)

Scientists need to explain to me this: How did those non-living lumps of dust or clay from the ground suddenly become a living person with a soul in it had not God breathed into it? Isn’t the soul, life itself?

Conversely, isn’t life the soul of a person interchangeably?  

Isn’t the breath of God the soul in us? Isn’t the soul itself the definition of life?

Let’s look at another verse:

“And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters”.

4,500 – 4,400 million years ago the accretion of Earth began.  4,200 million years ago, the atmosphere and oceans were formed.  

The first prebiotic chemistry became possible 4,000 million years ago and the RNA world shown by the first chemical fossil as viruses emerged 4. 3,800 million years ago. Then 3,600 million years ago the first DNA protein life came into existence.

Scientists and evolutionary biologists believe all life first originated from the warm primordial oceans before they crept into land. How did life get into the waters of the oceans? Was it not the spirit of God that moved upon the surface of waters when earth was still dark, and void of any life and His Spirit as He moved across those waters in the oceans could have breathed life into all those waters He created. Think this over, think again.

The soul of our body is life itself. Take care of our body for health, we will also take care of our soul for all eternity. 

In other words, your soul is your very life. He is the artist and painter of your life. See here:

The Soul as An Artist in the Next World

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2024/05/the-soul-as-artist-in-next-world.html

All the chemistries in your body that makes you alive and live is his handiwork. Any intractable disturbances in these body chemistries which are his handiwork of art through disease, accidents, and injuries will cause him as the artist and painter to leave you as he is no longer be interested in you. All his works of art – the workings of your heart, lungs, organs and all essential body chemistries in your body to stop immediately, leaving your physical body to crumble into dust. Your soul will then leave your physical body to fly off into another world. This is the anger of God if we are not careful and respectable to Him.  

Allow me to effectively quote:

 “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.

Before the mountains were born

or you brought forth the whole world,

from everlasting to everlasting, you are God.

You turn people back to dust,

saying, “Return to dust, you mortals.”

A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. 

Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death— they are like the new grass of the morning:
In the morning it springs up new, but by evening it is dry and withered.

We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation.

You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence.

All our days pass away under your wrath; we finish our years with a moan.

Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty, if our strength endures, yet the best of them is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.

If only we knew the power of your anger! Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due. 

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom”.

(Psalm 90: 1 -12)

This effectively marries science with theology. Hope this helps us to understand.   

When someone dies, almost all customs and traditions write these words on their tombstones:

 "May Your Soul Rest in Peace" (in another world)

It clearly implies his life lives on, leaving behind only his physical body.

In short, life is eternal and indestructible, leaving our physical body to return to the soil from where it came, whether from another world as stardust or from this world.

It is crucial for us to give ourselves time for our souls to rest to think over all these above issues. It took me quite an effort to think, analyse, before I write to share these thoughts with you.

Be thankful to God always!

Take care!

Lim ju boo

(A 5,077 worded essay in 31 pages)