A few centuries back in India a theory known as "reincarnation" was developed concerning the consecutive return of souls to this world after death. During the ages this theory was gradually taken into serious consideration by people all around the world and even became, for some, a part of their religious principles. But, throughout this long period, great scholars have challenged this theory and objected to it, presenting several of its faults.

Islam clearly refutes the notion of the soul returning to this world in the form of another person or any sort of animate creature, in order to perform good deeds and reach enlightenment or be awakened or anything else so that they can obtain the required circumstances for living with other purified souls. In regard to this idea the Quran says: "Until, when death comes to one of them (those who join partners with Allâh), he says: "My Lord! Send me back, so that I may do good in that which I have left behind!" No! It is but a word that he speaks, and behind them is Barzakh (a barrier) until the Day when they will be resurrected."

In a narration Imam Ridha (as) says: "He who believes in reincarnation has rejected God almighty and has perceived heaven and hell to be unreal."