The Spirits’ Book (Amazon) by Allan Kardec has captivated spiritual seekers since its publication in 1857. Unlike many philosophical or religious texts, it takes a Q&A format, with over 1,000 direct questions posed to enlightened spirits through mediums. Despite the book’s age, many of its key questions are surprisingly relevant to modern life.
This article highlights seven powerful questions from the book and explains how their answers still help us navigate life with purpose and clarity today.
❓ What Is the Origin of the Soul?
Question 76: What are spirits?
According to the spirits, we are all immortal spiritual beings temporarily incarnated in physical bodies. Spirits are the intelligent principles of the universe, created by God to evolve toward perfection.
“They are the intelligent beings of creation. They populate the universe beyond the material world.”
— The Spirits’ Book, Q.76
This idea helps us see life as a continuous journey, not a one-time existence, which can reduce the fear of death and increase our sense of personal responsibility (Amazon en).
🧭 What Is the Purpose of Life?
Question 132: What is the purpose of incarnation?
The spirits explain that life’s purpose is to learn, grow, and evolve spiritually. Each life provides experiences that shape our moral character and move us closer to perfection.
“God imposes incarnation for the purpose of leading spirits to perfection.”
— Q.132
This view shifts our focus from external success to inner development—a crucial insight in a world obsessed with materialism (FEB Editora pt).
⚖️ Why Do We Suffer?
Question 614: What is the meaning of suffering?
Kardec asks if pain is punishment. The answer? Not necessarily. Suffering is often a tool for learning.
“Suffering is the result of a violation of natural law. It teaches us and pushes us toward harmony.”
— Q.614
This concept brings purpose to pain, encouraging resilience and reflection rather than resentment or victimhood (FEEMT pt).
🔁 Is Reincarnation Real?
Question 166: What happens after we die? Do we come back?
The spirits affirm that reincarnation is a fundamental law of progress. We live many lives, each one giving us new chances to grow and correct past mistakes.
“Through new lives, the soul purifies itself and becomes wise.”
— Q.166
This belief fosters forgiveness, patience, and a long-term view of existence, promoting spiritual accountability (PortalSER pt).
🧠 How Can I Know Myself Better?
Question 919: What is the best way to improve myself in this life?
The spirits give one of the most quoted responses in the book: “Know thyself.” Self-knowledge, they say, is the key to transformation.
“Examine your actions and motives daily. Ask yourself whether you’ve done your duty, and whether you’ve done harm.”
— Q.919
In today’s self-help culture, this advice feels timeless, emphasizing reflection over ritual (Martins Fontes).
🫂 What Is True Charity?
Question 886: What is the true meaning of charity?
The spirits answer with clarity: “Benevolence toward everyone, indulgence for the imperfections of others, forgiveness for offenses.”
Charity is not just giving money—it’s a way of being.
“Charity, as Jesus understood it, is love in action.”
— Q.886
In a polarized world, this question reminds us that real spirituality is measured by compassion, not belief (BBC News pt).
🕊️ What Is the Role of Spirits in Our Lives?
Question 459: Do spirits influence our thoughts and actions?
The spirits respond: “Their influence is greater than you think; they often guide you.”
This doesn’t mean spirits control us, but rather that we’re surrounded by energetic influences, both helpful and harmful. Awareness of this can lead to more conscious decision-making and the importance of vibrational alignment.
“Spirits can suggest thoughts, but we remain free to choose.”
— Q.459 (PortalSER pt)
🧩 Putting It All Together
These seven questions form a practical spiritual framework. When applied to daily life, they can transform how we think, act, and relate to others. Here’s how:
| Question | Daily Application |
|---|---|
| What are spirits? | Remember you’re more than your body. |
| What is life’s purpose? | Reflect on personal growth, not just goals. |
| Why do we suffer? | Seek lessons in hardships. |
| Is reincarnation real? | Embrace progress across lifetimes. |
| How to know myself? | Use nightly reflection to assess your growth. |
| What is charity? | Be patient and forgiving, not just generous. |
| Do spirits influence me? | Maintain uplifting thoughts and environments. |
🧘 Closing Thoughts: The Book Is Just the Beginning
Kardec never intended The Spirits’ Book to be read passively. It’s a living document, meant to be questioned, discussed, and—above all—applied. If you read it with an open heart and a curious mind, it can serve as a daily compass in a world full of distractions.
“Unshaken faith is only that which can meet reason face to face in every Human epoch.”
— Allan Kardec
In a time when people are rediscovering spirituality beyond religion, the book offers a grounded, intelligent, and profoundly compassionate path.
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