Comparative Study Of Traditional Thoughts On Soulmate Relationships Across Various Culture
Bawa, Simmin1, Nelvoye, Premashree Nandagopa2 and Shekhar, Alankrita3
1Head of Department, Philosophy and Assistant Professor, Jai Hind College, Mumbai
2TYBA student Philosophy-Psychology, Jai Hind College, Mumbai
3TYBA student Philosophy-Psychology, Jai Hind College, Mumbai
Abstract
The study attempts to present a comparative analysis of soulmate beliefs across traditional Oriental, Mediterranean and African cultures, examining philosophical, moral, and mythological foundations to uncover similarities and differences among them. It aims to explore the ideas of soulmates in Oriental, African, Ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian cultures, highlighting common themes such as cosmic forces uniting souls, eternal love, and metaphysical connections. The study endeavours to also explore how the notions of love and soulmates are presented in folklores and cultural anecdotes across the cultures. Oriental and African traditions, supposedly, express these themes through their spiritual ritualistic forms. In the same way, Mediterranean traditions seemingly emphasize on marital rituals and rites to signify their beliefs on soulmate relationships, offering a wide range of interpretations across various civilizations. Despite similarities, subtle differences prevail. Apparently, Oriental, and African cultures have been shown to emphasize upon spiritual growth and karmic connection, whereas Mediterranean cultures focus more on romantic love and the concept of fate shaped by unique mythological stories and folktales. The study also examines the traditional myths and lores that have been passed down in these regions and have shaped and solidified the beliefs of soulmates, thus putting emphasis on the role of cultural and historical factors in their evolution. Traditional beliefs about soulmate relationships presumably incorporate moral elements such as destiny and fate, and divine intervention, emphasizing the sacred nature of the bond. The predominant aspects of morality, when dealing with the nature of soulmate relationships, seem to revolve around loyalty, devotion, and sacrifice, along with family and societal norms. The analysis seeks to attain a deeper understanding of the moral elements, their relevance and responsibility that comes with finding one’s soulmate. The research attempts to shed light upon the cultural differences and variations in the understanding of human companionship. The subjugation of morality and the existence of various societal ideas seem to influence the beliefs regarding a cosmic connection between two beings.
Keywords: Soulmates, Love, Oriental, African, Mediterranean, Morality, Destiny, Rituals, Folklores, Spirituality, Philosophy
Impact Statement
The paper “Comparative Study of Customary Thoughts On Soulmate Relationships Across Multiple Cultures” offers a cross-cultural examination of soulmate beliefs, exploring their evolution through mythology, philosophy, and societal traditions across Mediterranean, Oriental, African, and Egyptian cultures. The study reveals common universal themes transcending cultural boundaries as well as reflecting unique regional values by analyzing narratives emphasizing love, destiny, reincarnation, and spiritual growth. The findings enhance discussions across anthropology, philosophy, and metaphysics, particularly in debates about fate, relational identity, and human connection. This research connects ancient soulmate beliefs with contemporary discussions of personal identity and love’s metaphysics, enhancing cultural sensitivity and exploring how relationships shape human existence. This study depicts that certain old ideas concerning soulmates continue to influence modern thought, bridging historical traditions with contemporary philosophical discourse.
About The Author
Ms. Simmin Bawa is the Head of the Department of Philosophy at Jai Hind College. Prof. Bawa has made important contributions to the discipline due to her strong interest in applying ancient philosophical principles to current living. Her study involves a thorough examination of the Kamasutra, with an emphasis on the sensuous and sexual lives of individuals during the Grihastha ashrama, as well as the text’s insights about women’s financial independence. She has also written on Gandhian ideas in ethical entrepreneurship, which emphasize truth and nonviolence in corporate processes. Miss Bawa also explores the significance of meditation in education from a Krishnamurti standpoint, highlighting its effect on emotional well-being. Her multidisciplinary approach bridges the gap between ancient philosophy and current practical applications, encouraging overall well-being and ethical living.
Ms. Alankrita Shekhar is a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Philosophy. Her academic journey has been shaped by a profound fascination with the concept of soulmates and literature. Through her studies in philosophy, she has explored and analyzed the cultural beliefs that, while deeply personal, often share remarkable similarities across time and space in various cultures. This exploration has led her to a fascinating realization of how deeply interconnected all individuals are, whether through shared beliefs, experiences, or some other unseen bond. Alankrita is passionate about continuing her research in these areas, seeking to further understand the profound connections that unite humanity.
Ms Premashree Nelvoye is an undergraduate student majoring in Philosophy and Psychology from Jai Hind College, Mumbai, with a strong interest in philosophy and human behaviour. Her academic pursuits blend psychological inquiry with philosophical thought, allowing her to explore complex questions about identity, relationships, and the mind. She is passionate about research and critical analysis, continuously seeking to deepen her understanding of human cognition and experience. With a keen interest in mental health and existential
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