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)
