Life is temporary. Sooner or later, death separates us from our loved ones. But what happens to them after they pass?
People often ask me about the fate of their loved ones. Some believe in heaven and hell, while others believe in reincarnation. In my opinion, which isn’t based on any scientific or theological research, the deceased remain close to us for a time before departing.
I believe we are composed of four bodies: the physical, astral, mental, and causal (soul). When we die, we leave our physical bodies behind, which are either buried or cremated. The astral body, a non-physical counterpart, carries remnants of our worldly presence and lingers near loved ones for up to 100 years before fading away. The mental body, encompassing our lifetime’s thoughts, departs upon death. In cases of unnatural death, like suicide, the mental body may follow the astral body and the soul into a darker spiritual realm, becoming a ghost. The soul, the spiritual essence that animates our bodies, departs when it is time for us to die, marking the end of our physical lives.
After death, our astral bodies inhabit a parallel dimension, residing in a replica of their earthly home, devoid of physical necessities. Unlike physical bodies, astral bodies don’t experience hunger or thirst. When they are not at home, they often visit their loved ones, teleporting instantaneously. The stronger the emotional connection, the more likely the living will sense their presence. If you’ve ever felt a moment of profound peace and comfort, it’s possible that your deceased loved ones were near. My daughter often smells her great-grandmother’s distinctive perfume, which was a sign of her presence. One of my clients is always accompanied by her late father whenever she comes to see me.
Astral bodies can communicate directly with the living. My late great-grandmother once intervened, saving me from a potential accident. As I crossed a road, oblivious to oncoming traffic, I was abruptly pulled back and heard her familiar voice warning me. “Jaga nanti kena langgar! (Be careful or you’ll get knocked down!)” the voice said. I would have met a different fate if it was not for her warning.
Astral bodies don’t communicate through mediums. Any medium claiming to speak to your deceased loved ones is likely deceptive or channeling a different spirit. Spirits and demons are capable of reading the living and using that information to act like they know you.
Astral bodies connect with you directly, through their voice, scent, or a subtle, positive energy. Even if you can’t see or hear them, you can still talk to them. I often share family news with my great-grandmother, who passed away when I was 16. While not all astral bodies are as communicative as my great-grandmother’s, your loved ones are likely listening.
Instead of praying for the deceased on death anniversaries, which can be a painful reminder for them, I celebrate their birthdays. I know that it is common for the living to remember the dead on their death anniversaries. But paying tribute to them on their birthdays is even better as this commemorates the beginning of their journey in both the physical and spiritual realms.