Reincarnation and the Law of Karma: A Study of the Old-New World-Doctrine of Rebirth, and Spiritual Cause and Effect

"Reincarnation and the Law of Karma" by William Walker Atkinson is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the ancient and modern beliefs surrounding the doctrines of reincarnation and karma, delving into their historical roots across various cultures and traditions. Atkinson posits that these doctrines are essential truths that have persisted throughout time, connecting them to the spiritual journeys and moral implications of human existence. The opening of this text provides a foundational understanding of the concepts of reincarnation and metempsychosis, explaining that they revolve around the persistence of the soul beyond physical death and its journey through multiple lives. Atkinson distinguishes between various beliefs in reincarnation, noting that many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Hindus, recognized the soul's continuity and its connection to past lives. He emphasizes that these beliefs are not merely archaic ideas but rather fundamental principles that may re-emerge in modern spiritual thought as humanity seeks deeper understanding of life, existence, and the nature of the soul.