The word "pre existences" is spelled with a hyphen between "pre" and "existences" because "pre-" is a prefix that means "before" and needs the hyphen to connect with the following word. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /priːɪɡzɪstənsɪz/. The stress falls on the second syllable of "pre-" (i.e. /priː/), followed by the primary stress on the second syllable of "existences" (i.e. /ɪɡzɪst/). The word refers to the existence or state of being present before a specific time or event.
Pre existences refers to the concept that individuals or entities have existed in a previous state or form before their current existence. It is a philosophical or theological belief that suggests that beings have a pre-existing existence or consciousness that predates their birth or creation in their current physical form.
In some religious or spiritual traditions, pre existences are viewed as the successive lifeforms or embodiments of the soul or spirit. The belief posits that before being born into a physical body, souls undergo a series of previous lives or existences in different forms, such as humans, animals, or even non-physical entities. The purpose of these pre existences may vary, ranging from personal growth and learning to purifying the soul or fulfilling a spiritual mission.
The idea of pre existences can also extend beyond individual beings to encompass the existence of the universe itself. Some philosophical perspectives view the universe as having multiple pre existences or cycles of creation and destruction, where each cycle follows a predetermined pattern.
The concept of pre existences can be found in various belief systems, including certain branches of Hinduism and Buddhism, as well as some indigenous religions. However, it is important to note that pre existences are not universally accepted or shared beliefs, and can vary greatly depending on cultural, religious, or philosophical perspectives.
The word "pre existences" is derived from several components.
1. "Pre-" is a prefix of Latin origin meaning "before" or "prior to". In this case, it suggests something that comes before or precedes something else.
2. "Existences" is the plural form of the word "existence", which comes from the Latin word "existentia", derived from the verb "existere" meaning "to come forth, emerge, or appear". It refers to the state or fact of being or living.
Therefore, "pre existences" refers to multiple states or facts of being or living that existed before a particular time or event. It is commonly used in philosophical or religious contexts to describe previous lives or existences that an individual may have had before their current life.