Death is often viewed as a significant transition rather than an end. According to Albert Pike in Morals and Dogma, "Death is the true initiation to which sleep is the introductory or minor mystery." This perspective suggests that death is not merely a cessation of life but a liberation of the soul from the physical body, which is seen as a prison. The soul is believed to be eternal and undergoes a journey beyond this life, as indicated by the teachings of various ancient philosophies, including those of the Egyptians and Pythagoreans.
Furthermore, the Book of Zohar elaborates on the soul's journey after death, stating that the soul may revisit its body and mourn for a period before ascending to higher realms. The righteous are welcomed by the patriarchs, while the wicked may face trials and remain bound to the earth for longer periods. This illustrates a belief in a continuum of existence beyond physical death, where the actions of individuals in life have lasting consequences.
Ultimately, understanding death within these frameworks encourages a view of life that emphasizes moral conduct and spiritual growth, as the soul's journey continues beyond the physical realm.