What do different spiritual beliefs say about the time the soul remains on Earth after d3ath?

Ritual Importance
The Śrāddha ceremonies performed by family members help guide the soul onward. Without these rites, the soul may become a preta (restless spirit) and linger indefinitely.

Final Transition
After the transitional period:

The soul either reincarnates

Or moves to a heavenly or hellish realm temporarily

Ultimate liberation (moksha) ends all returns to Earth

3. Buddhism
Buddhist beliefs vary by tradition, but most agree on a non-eternal soul concept combined with rebirth.

The Bardo State (Tibetan Buddhism)
In Tibetan Buddhism, the consciousness enters the Bardo, an intermediate state lasting up to 49 days.

During this time:

The consciousness experiences visions

Encounters symbolic deities

Faces opportunities for liberation or rebirth

The deceased is believed to remain aware of earthly events, especially during the early days.

Earthly Attachment
Strong attachment, fear, or ignorance can cause the consciousness to remain closer to the physical realm longer.

Rituals, chanting, and prayers are performed to guide the consciousness away from confusion and toward enlightenment.

4. Judaism
Jewish beliefs about the afterlife are less uniform and focus more on life than death.

Immediate Departure
In many Jewish interpretations:

The soul leaves the body immediately

But remains near the body or home for up to seven days

This aligns with the practice of Shiva, a seven-day mourning period.

Mystical Views (Kabbalah)
Kabbalistic teachings expand this view:

The soul lingers to observe mourning

May revisit familiar places

Can remain longer if spiritually unfulfilled

Some souls return through gilgul (reincarnation) to complete unfinished spiritual tasks.

5. Christianity
Christian beliefs about the soul’s post-death journey vary widely by denomination.

Catholicism
Catholic doctrine teaches:

Immediate judgment upon death

Souls go to Heaven, Hell, or Purgatory

Purgatory is not on Earth but is considered a transitional state. However, folk Catholicism often believes souls may linger briefly to say goodbye or seek prayers.

Protestantism
Many Protestant traditions teach:

The soul departs immediately

No lingering on Earth

The dead are not aware of earthly events

However, some interpretations allow for brief transitional awareness.

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