Evidence Of Afterlife - Near Death Experience

1. What Evidence Are We Looking for Exactly?

1.1. The Majority of People Are Looking for Afterlife in the Wrong Place

Many people do not believe that there can be anything after life. The logic usually includes the assertion that life cannot continue after death. They claim that would be a clinical impossibility. How can anything emerge from the other side of death?

I created this diagram to illustrate the basis of this conclusion below. The sideways plane, on the right, represents the last moment of life. The red arrow shows the conscious human heading into this event. They approach this event at a specific location in space and time as shown.

What the majority of people do is look for the presence of afterlife, after death occurs. Notice the timeline at the bottom. They are looking for afterlife to the right in time, after the event occurred. For example, if the event occurred at 12:05 PM, they are looking for evidence of life after that time. Essentially, they are looking for afterlife in the future, past the end of life. As you can see, there is nothing there. They are looking in the wrong place.

Many researchers, physicians, and scientists see afterlife like this. They conclude, incorrectly, that afterlife cannot possibly exist because they believe afterlife ought to be found after death. So, they attribute near-death experiences to physiological processes, such as oxygen deprivation, abnormal brain activity, or the release of endorphins during traumatic events. For example, the tunnel vision often reported during NDEs may be linked to the narrowing of visual fields as the brain experiences hypoxia.[1].

The figure above shows how they think about afterlife. The figure below shows how we think of afterlife. Instead of looking for afterlife beyond death in time, we look the other way. The nominal word here is "backup". We believe that conscious awareness backs up at the end of life. Instead of moving to the right, as most people believe, we believe it moves to the left as shown here:

Under this scenario, like does not continue after death along the timeline. Instead, it goes the other way. It backs up in time. This is how to interpret the drawing above:

1. Conscious awareness approaches the end of life in time as shown by the red arrow.
2. At the precise moment when death occurs, awareness stops moving forward.
3. At that moment, awareness unfurls into the expanse of memory.
4. Memory contains unlimited time and space relative to the individual.

Conscious awareness does not move forward in time past the moment of death. But that does not mean afterlife can't exist. There is another possibility. That possibility is that conscious awareness backs up, expanding into memory, time, and space.

Those of us who believe in afterlife, argue for a spiritual or transcendental explanation, viewing NDEs as evidence of an afterlife. We know that memory is a non-physical dimension of consciousness. The transformative effects reported by many individuals - such as reduced fear of death and increased altruism - lend credence to the idea that these experiences have profound psychological and existential significance. We believe It is time to take first-hand accounts of NDE with the validity they deserve, as we shall explore later in this section.

1.2. What We Would Expect to Find in Near-Death Experiences Based on Theory of Afterlife

The six theories of afterlife assert that memory holds space. We paint the picture of memory absorbing each moment of life as we go through it. These individual moments are actually in memory as we experience them. Then from there, they move into long-term memory where they are retained indefinitely. This successive saving of each moment in life builds a vast time-space continuum in memory. We conclude that this continuum is not like space, or a copy of space, it IS space.

At the end of life, we have this vast time-space continuum in memory available to us. At the moment of death, conscious awareness expands into the vast realm, being everywhere throughout. This realm is all-inclusive. It contains everything we know, including people, thoughts, emotions, space, and time.

If we were to examine near-death experiences, we would first look for interaction with memory. We would expect to see loved ones from the past. We would expect to see life in review. As to the four dimensionality of the memory realm, we would expect to see reports of the mind as space and as time. We would expect to hear about access to knowledge. We would expect to hear about the clarity of time.

These are the types of things we would expect to see. Keep in mind, that we cannot "cross over" into the realm of afterlife and then come back. NDE would more accurately described as getting close enough to death to catch a glimpse of these things. There may be some interpretation of what people say they saw, however, the commonality of what people report is stunning. The final transition in life is as fundamental as birth. It is an event that takes place at a specific location in time and space. In other words, you don't experience it twice. What we can do is get close enough to get some indications about what lies ahead without actually going through it. NDE requires special circumstances that involve getting close to death but not going through it.

1.3. How Common Is Near-Death Experience?

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are profound events reported by individuals who come close to death or are in situations of extreme physical or emotional distress. These experiences have intrigued scientists, theologians, and laypeople alike. NDE challenges conventional understandings of consciousness and the human mind. The prevalence of NDEs has been a topic of considerable research, and this section explores their occurrence, characteristics, and implications.

Understanding Near-Death Experiences

Near-death experiences are characterized by a range of phenomena, including feelings of peace, out-of-body experiences, a tunnel-like vision, encounters with deceased loved ones, and a perception of light or divine presence. These experiences are reported across cultures and demographics, suggesting a universal aspect of the phenomenon.

The term "near-death experience" was first popularized by psychiatrist Dr. Raymond Moody in his seminal work Life After Life (1975). Moody documented accounts of individuals who had come close to death, providing a framework for understanding these experiences. Subsequent research has sought to quantify their prevalence and understand the conditions under which they occur.

Prevalence of Near-Death Experiences

Estimates of the prevalence of NDEs vary widely, depending on the population studied and the methods used. A large-scale study published in The Lancet by Dr. Pim van Lommel and colleagues surveyed cardiac arrest survivors and found that approximately 18% reported having an NDE.[2] Other studies have reported prevalence rates ranging from 4% to 23% in various populations, indicating that NDEs are relatively common among those who have faced life-threatening situations.[3]

Factors influencing the prevalence of NDEs include age, cultural background, and the type of near-death event. For instance, children's NDEs often differ in content from those of adults, with children more likely to describe encounters with familiar figures and less likely to report life reviews.[4]

Conclusion

The prevalence of near-death experiences highlights their significance. While estimates vary, it is clear that NDEs are common and occur across diverse populations. Understanding the causes and implications of these experiences requires research that bridges neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality. NDEs offer valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and afterlife.

1.4. What Percentage of the Population Have Experienced NDE?

The percentage of the population that has experienced a near-death experience (NDE) varies depending on the study and population sampled. Research suggests that 4-15% of people report having had an NDE at some point in their lives. This figure is derived from surveys conducted in the general population, as well as specific groups such as patients who have experienced cardiac arrest or other life-threatening events. Among the various groups, these are the approximate numbers:

General Population: Studies suggest that around 4-5% of people in the general population have reported NDEs.

Cardiac Arrest Survivors: In clinical settings, up to 10-20% of people who survive cardiac arrest or other severe trauma report experiencing an NDE.

Global Variability: Cultural and societal factors may influence the prevalence or reporting of NDEs so that figures can vary across different regions and communities.

NDEs are a fascinating area of study, blending neuroscience, psychology, and sometimes spirituality to better understand their origins and significance. With a global population of around eight billion people, this equates conservatively to about 300 million people who have seen NDE. That is a lot of commonality. The characteristics of NDE are too common to be considered happenstance. We at Proof of Afterlife, take these accounts literally. We believe what we are being told. We take them at face value.

2. Common Characteristics of Near-Death Experience

2.1. The Theory's Interpretation of NDE Common Characteristics

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are extraordinary events that occur when individuals are close to death or in situations of intense physical or emotional danger. These experiences have been widely documented and share several core characteristics, despite differences in cultural, religious, and personal contexts. This section explores eight commonly reported elements of NDEs: a sense of peace, out-of-body experiences, moving through a tunnel, encountering a bright light, meeting spiritual beings or deceased loved ones, experiencing a life review, reaching a boundary or point of no return, and a transformation upon returning to life.

Within each characteristic, we are going to state what the consensus thinks is happening. Then we are going to state what we think is happening. Our enlightened opinions are based on:

1. We believe the account of NDE is true and real and should not be explained away.
2. That these people are catching a glimpse of the vast four-dimensional realm of their memory. That realm has often been described as the kingdom of heaven.

We intend to provide an alternative understanding of the characteristics of NDE. Anyone who believes in, is involved in, and promotes the cause of afterlife is doing society a valuable service. All work is good work in the promotion of afterlife because it exists. Thus far, not everyone believes it does. That needs to change.

2.2. A Sense of Peace

One of the earliest sensations reported during an NDE is an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility. This often occurs despite the individual being in a life-threatening situation.

What the consensus believes: The profound calmness is sometimes attributed to neurochemical changes in the brain, such as the release of endorphins and other stress-reducing hormones[5].

What the theory believes: People who experience NDE are close to death or in situations of intense physical or emotional danger. Along with that danger comes fear. It would scare anyone who is that close to death. When that person experiences NDE, one of their first revelations will be that life does not end in death. They can see it. The second revelation would be that there is that there is a God and they will be taken care of. So, in their darkest hour, they come face-to-face with the reality that things are much better than they could have imagined. Hence, they are blessed with feelings of well-being and peace. The peace they feel now is based on seeing first-hand that afterlife exists. NDE also gives them a glimpse of what it will be like.

2.3. Out-of-Body Experience (OBE)

Many individuals report a sensation of leaving their physical body and observing the scene around them from an external vantage point. Often, they describe seeing their own body and medical staff working to save them with remarkable clarity.

What the consensus believes: OBEs may involve disruptions in the temporoparietal junction of the brain, which is responsible for integrating sensory and spatial information[6].

What the theory believes: The theory believes that out-of-body exists. It is real. It is possible to be outside your body, yet still inside your mind. We know this because memory extends out to the limits of your surrounding space. The mind as space has been a common theme throughout all six theories. In an NDE, your point of view is free to go anywhere within your surrounding physical space. It is not fixed at the center of your environment as it is during life. During an NDE, it is entirely possible to find yourself hovering outside your body, looking down at the scene. This can happen because memory is space. NDE is a physical manifestation of this fact.

2.4. Moving Through a Tunnel

A common feature of NDEs is the sensation of traveling through a tunnel, frequently accompanied by a sense of acceleration or movement toward a destination.

What the consensus believes: This phenomenon is often explained as a narrowing of the visual field caused by hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) in the brain[7].

What the theory believes: When we arrive at the end of life, we are going to find ourselves in the presence of our memory. Our memory has accumulated all the moments throughout our lives. Our surrounding space is contained within our memory. The net effect of absorbing all environments into memory is to build a vast time-space continuum. We are going to find our conscious awareness expanding into all reaches of the vast realm. I can't speak to the presence of a tunnel. What I might suggest is that life, during life, is confined to a position at the center of the environment. When you talk afterlife, the position of conscious awareness expands. It grows in size. This movement, or backing up in space, may be the equivalent feeling of being in a tunnel, and then coming upon a large, open cavern. Nonetheless, this is a spatial feeling and afterlife involves an opening up of physical space and time.

2.5. Encountering a Bright Light

A brilliant, often warm, and loving light is one of the most iconic aspects of NDEs. This light is typically described as being more than just visual - it is often perceived as a source of profound love and acceptance.

What the consensus believes: Some researchers propose that this experience may stem from hyperactivity in the visual cortex during moments of extreme stress[8].

What the theory believes: This warm and loving light they refer to, I believe is knowledge. Life is essentially a knowledge-gathering endeavor. Every moment we encounter is saved forever. The knowledge I am referring to is not the knowledge used to take a test for example. That knowledge is based on remembering. The knowledge of memory would be a total understanding and comprehension of everything. All knowledge in the universe would be instantly realized simultaneously. Upon returning from an NDE, one might describe this phenomenon of being all-seeing and all-knowing as light. This loving, bright light is knowledge and experience, that has been gathered over a lifetime, being manifested all at once.

2.6. Meeting Spiritual Beings or Deceased Loved Ones

Many NDE accounts include encounters with beings of light, spiritual figures, or deceased relatives. These entities are often perceived as welcoming and comforting.

What the consensus believes: Cultural and personal beliefs may influence the specific identities of these beings, suggesting a blend of psychological and transcendent factors[9].

What the theory believes: Near the end of life, we believe that the individual will be standing just outside, close to entering the realm of memory. Instead of going through death and emerging out the other side, we bounce off it. Conscious awareness does not move forward in time like any other moment of life. Instead, it backs up into memory. Memory is the accumulation of all moments experienced during a lifetime. Memory is also a time-space continuum containing everything ever experienced. Within this vast realm of memory is everyone who you encountered during life. Your relatives, for example, still exist in memory. When you get close to death, and experience memory as space, it is no coincidence that people are there. These are not images of people, like cardboard cutouts. These are the actual people, alive and communicative, as they were during life. Given that afterlife is conscious awareness unfurled throughout memory, it is entirely possible to encounter and talk with past loved ones. We would expect this to occur. It is entirely within the scope of possibility given that NDE is a memory-based phenomenon.

2.7. Experiencing a Life Review

Some individuals report witnessing a "life review," where significant moments of their life replay before them. This process is often described as nonjudgmental but deeply reflective.

What the consensus believes: Neurological theories suggest that the life review may be linked to the brain's attempt to consolidate memories under extreme conditions[10].

What the theory believes: Exactly like Section 2.6 above, NDE is the patient coming face-to-face with their memory. Memory, according to Proof of Afterlife, is the accumulation of all moments of life. It makes perfect sense then, when in the presence of memory, that this would manifest as a life in review. During life we are confined to one moment in time - the present moment. During NDE, we are not confined this way. Conscious awareness is free to go back in time. When it does, it sees into moments of the past. The patient can see their past moments with clarity. It's not that they remember them. They experience them first-hand, exactly as they did during life. It is no coincidence that the patient would describe this ability to fully experience past moments as life in review. We would expect this to happen.

2.8. Reaching a Boundary or Point of No Return

NDEs often involve reaching a boundary or threshold that the individual perceives as a point of no return. Crossing this boundary is typically associated with death, but many describe being sent back to their body, often with a sense of purpose.

What the consensus believes: The boundary element underscores the transitional nature of NDEs[11].

What the theory believes: The event of death is a geometrical event that occurs at a specific location in space and time. There is a single moment where conscious awareness undergoes a change in dimension from position in time and space to all time and space. This happens in a moment, much like birth. That moment in time, where the mind expands to become space, represents a boundary in time. During NDE, you exist to the left of this boundary. You are situated in time before the moment of death. Should you choose to cross this boundary, life undergoes dimensional change and becomes space. There is no coming back from this. In other words, you cannot cross this boundary and come back to where you were because it is a transformation of life. I would expect the person to have a choice as to whether they cross the boundary and start the transformation at death, or decide to stay where they are and return to their body to resume living their life. We would expect to see this.

2.9. Transformation and Aftereffects

Returning from an NDE is often accompanied by profound personal and spiritual transformations. Individuals frequently report a diminished fear of death, a greater appreciation for life, and heightened spirituality or altruism.

What the consensus believes: These aftereffects underscore the deeply impactful nature of NDEs[12].

What the theory believes: Firstly, we believe these accounts of NDE are literal and real. That being said, the person who experiences this is going to know that life does not end at death. How do they know? They know because they just saw it first-hand during their NDE. Secondly, they are going to experience joy and happiness, meeting loved ones, being one with knowledge, and all the rest of it. They know now, after experiencing NDE, that all this awaits them at the end of life. Knowing that you will be taken care of, safe, and rewarded gives rise to a better outlook on life. We would expect the patient to find a newfound appreciation for life, spirituality, and peace after going through NDE. These feelings are a consequence of seeing what lies ahead.

2.10. Conclusion to NDE Common Characteristics

The eight common characteristics of NDEs - peace, out-of-body experiences, traveling through a tunnel, encountering a bright light, meeting spiritual beings, life reviews, reaching a boundary, and transformation - suggest a universal structure to these phenomena. While scientific explanations focus on physiological and neurological factors, the theory interprets their experiences as evidence of afterlife and entrance into a memory realm. The study of NDEs sheds light on the profound mysteries of consciousness and human existence after death. It is time we regard these accounts of NDE with the respect they deserve.

3. Three First-Hand Accounts of Near Death Experiences (NDE)

3.1. The Intention and Interpretation of Using Real-Life Accounts

We have included three real-life examples of Near-Death Experience - Jane, Anne, and Mary. What we intend to do is show practical examples of what people experienced when they became close to death. The accounts of NDE are fairly similar. People usually talk about seeing and feeling the same things.

Theory of Afterlife makes predictions about what happens at the end of life. In short, we talk about how awareness expands into a realm of unlimited time and space. The theory explains how we capture each moment of life, which over time, creates an unlimited realm of time and space. We do not believe that one can "cross over" into afterlife and then come back to talk about it. The mathematics of afterlife won't allow it. This can more accurately be described as seeing what lies ahead as if someone stands outside a room to see what's inside. They do not have to go into the room to get an idea of what is inside. So it is with NDE.

That being said, the similarities across reports of NDE are striking. People report the same type of things coming from different cultures, spoken languages, and ages. The similarities point to NDE being based on absolute fact, as opposed to hallucinations created by the mind.

The concept people come back with is exactly what you would expect to see given the tenets of Proof of Afterlife. The accounts usually include life in review, being outside one's body, seeing a bright light, encountering people of the past, peace, and not wanting to return. These are exactly the types of things we would expect to see.

As you read these accounts, it is important to realize these are not flights of fancy. They can't be because they are all alike. To the individual going through NDE, what they see is not subjective. For example, when someone in hospice sees a loved one from the past, this is not imagination. They did see someone. They saw them because they exist inside memory, as real, alive, and communicative as always. NDE accounts are real. They are accurate eyewitness accounts. They are possible because the person going through NDE is in the presence of their memory. Their memory contains everything. It is independent of the physical world. Someone in the presence of the awesome clarity, power, and size of their memory is exactly what we would expect to see.

3.2. The Story of Jane Doe's NDE

In 2015, Jane Doe (a pseudonym to protect the individual), a 42-year-old woman from the United States, suffered a severe cardiac arrest while at home. Her family performed CPR while waiting for emergency services to arrive, and she was resuscitated in the hospital after several minutes of unconsciousness. During this time, Jane experienced what she later described as a profoundly transformative near-death experience (NDE). Her account aligns closely with the common elements described in NDE literature, making it a valuable case study for understanding these phenomena. Here is a summary of Jane's Near-Death Experience.

1. Feelings of Peace and Detachment

Jane recalled an overwhelming sense of calm and serenity as soon as she lost consciousness. Despite the chaos occurring around her physical body, she felt entirely free from fear and pain. She described it as "a release, as though I had let go of everything heavy and was floating in pure peace." This sensation is consistent with the findings of Greyson (2003), who noted that emotional calm is a frequent component of NDEs.[13]

Out-of-Body Experience

Jane reported observing her body from above while her husband performed CPR. She vividly described the frantic movements of her family and the paramedics as they arrived. Interestingly, she recounted seeing her daughter crying in the next room, even though she could not have physically seen this from her position. This detail aligns with research by Van Lommel et al. (2001), who documented similar reports of out-of-body perceptions during NDEs.[14]

Encounter with Light

Jane recalled being drawn toward a bright, warm light that felt both welcoming and powerful. She described it as "not just light, but a presence full of love and understanding." As she approached the light, she felt a profound sense of connection and belonging, a common theme in Moody's foundational work on NDEs.[15]

Life Review

In Jane's account, she experienced a panoramic life review, where significant moments of her life played out in rapid succession. She could see not only her actions but also their impact on others, experiencing their emotions as if they were her own. This vivid reliving of events mirrors the life review phenomenon frequently described in NDE literature.[16]

Reluctance to Return

Jane encountered what she described as a "presence" that communicated without words. This presence indicated that her time was not yet over, and she needed to return to her physical life. Although she felt reluctant, she eventually agreed, waking moments later in the hospital. She reported feeling profoundly changed by the experience, with a renewed appreciation for life and a diminished fear of death, a shift also noted by Long and Perry (2010).[17]

Interpretation of Jane's Near-Death Experience

Jane's NDE provides a clear example of the common characteristics identified in the research. The consistency of her account with those reported in studies by Greyson, Moody, and Van Lommel suggests that NDEs might stem from universal neurological, psychological, or spiritual mechanisms. Jane Doe's near-death experience offers a detailed and emotionally impactful example of this phenomenon. Her account not only reflects the shared elements of NDEs but also highlights the profound personal transformation often reported by individuals. Whether interpreted as neurochemical processes or glimpses into a spiritual realm, Jane's story underscores the importance of continued research into these enigmatic experiences.

3.3. The Story of Anne Doe's NDE

In 1984, Anne Doe (a pseudonym to protect the individual), a young woman of Indian descent living in Hong Kong, experienced what she describes as a transformative near-death experience (NDE). Her story, widely shared in media and literature, offers profound insights into the spiritual and psychological dimensions of NDEs. Anne's experience occurred after a prolonged battle with cancer, during which her body had deteriorated to a critical state. This account highlights her journey, detailing the characteristic elements of her NDE and its transformative aftereffects.

The Onset of the NDE

By February 2006, Anne had been battling Hodgkin's lymphoma for nearly four years. Her body was severely emaciated, and she was bedridden in a hospital, with her organs beginning to shut down[18]. On the morning of February 2, she slipped into a coma. Medical records indicate that her prognosis was dire, with her doctors informing her family that her survival was highly unlikely[19].

The Experience Beyond the Body

Anne describes the sensation of leaving her physical body and observing the hospital room from a vantage point above her bed. She recalls hearing the conversations of her family members and doctors, despite being in a state of deep unconsciousness. This phenomenon aligns with documented accounts of out-of-body experiences in NDE research[20].

She recounts feeling completely detached from her physical suffering, enveloped in a state of peace and unconditional love. Anne describes a heightened awareness in which she could perceive the interconnectedness of all life. She also experienced a sense of omniscience, where she understood the purpose of her illness and the fears that had governed her life[21].

The Encounter with Loved Ones

Anne describes meeting her deceased father and other relatives in what she refers to as "another dimension." They communicated telepathically, assuring her that she was loved and that she could choose whether to return to her body or continue her journey into death[22]. This element of encountering spiritual beings or deceased loved ones is a common characteristic of NDEs and has been documented in cross-cultural studies[23].

The Return and Transformation

Anne ultimately chose to return to her body, inspired by the realization that her purpose in life was not yet fulfilled. Upon regaining consciousness, she shocked her doctors by describing conversations that had occurred while she was in a coma, later verified by her family[24].

Within weeks, Anne's tumors began to shrink rapidly, leading to a complete recovery, which medical professionals described as unprecedented. Her experience profoundly transformed her perspective on life, instilling a sense of fearlessness, purpose, and deep spirituality.

Analysis and Implications

Anne's NDE contains many of the elements commonly reported in such experiences, including an out-of-body sensation, a sense of peace, encounters with deceased loved ones, and transformative aftereffects. While skeptics argue that such experiences can be explained by neurological and biochemical processes, Anne's rapid recovery and the depth of her insights continue to inspire both scientific and spiritual discussions[25].

3.4. The Story of Mary Doe's NDE

One of the most widely discussed and documented near-death experiences (NDEs) is that of Mary Doe (a pseudonym to protect the individual), an American musician who underwent a complex surgical procedure in 1991 to treat a life-threatening brain aneurysm. Her case gained attention not only because of the vivid details of her NDE but also because the circumstances of her medical procedure provided a unique opportunity to study the phenomenon under controlled conditions.

Mary's Underlying Medical Condition

Mary Doe was diagnosed with a basilar artery aneurysm that posed a significant risk of rupture. To treat the aneurysm, surgeons at the Barrow Neurological Institute in Arizona performed a rare and high-risk operation called hypothermic cardiac arrest, also known as "standstill surgery." During this procedure, her body temperature was lowered to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, her heart and breathing were stopped, and her brain activity was monitored to ensure complete cessation. This condition lasted approximately an hour. Mary described her Near-Death Experience as follows:

Out-of-Body Experience

Mary reported feeling as though she had floated out of her body and observed the surgical team working on her. She described specific details of the operating room, including the placement of surgical instruments and conversations among the medical staff. Notably, she recalled seeing the Midas Rex bone saw being used to open her skull, even though her eyes were taped shut and her ears were fitted with sound-emitting devices designed to monitor brain activity.[26]

Movement Through a Tunnel and Encounter with Light

Mary described being drawn into a tunnel toward a bright, warm light. She recounted encountering deceased relatives, including her grandmother and described these interactions as deeply comforting. The sense of love and connection she experienced in this state aligns with common NDE elements identified by Moody (1975).[27]

Reluctance to Return

Mary reported feeling reluctant to leave the serene environment of the light and return to her body. However, she recalled being told by a presence that she had to go back to complete her life. Moments later, she woke up in the recovery room. This component of her NDE resonates with the accounts of individuals who describe returning to life out of a sense of duty or unfinished purpose.[28]

Medical and Scientific Implications

Mary's NDE is notable because it occurred during a period when her brain was essentially inactive, as confirmed by the medical team. Her body was in a state of clinical death, with no measurable brain waves or sensory input. Researchers have debated whether her vivid experiences could be attributed to neurochemical processes occurring before or after the procedure or whether they point to a non-material dimension of consciousness.[29]

Legacy and Significance

Mary Doe's case remains one of the most compelling examples of an NDE documented under controlled medical conditions. It has been widely cited in discussions about consciousness and the nature of life and death. Her experience challenges conventional scientific understanding and continues to fuel debates in neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality. Mary's case serves as a powerful example of the complexity of NDEs and their implications for understanding consciousness and mortality.

4. Near-Death Experiences Support the Belief That Afterlife Will Be Positive

4.1. Positive Emotional Elements of NDE

The six theories of afterlife attempt to prove the existence of afterlife using geometry and logic. It is a hard proof, basically devoid of emotional content. We did this on purpose because we are trying not to speculate. To try to determine how afterlife will be emotionally, based on hard proof only, would be speculation. That is because while we can predict what will happen, we have not seen it.

This is why accounts of NDE are so important. Near-death experiences (NDEs) are profound events that occur when individuals come close to death or are clinically dead before being revived. These people have experienced this first-hand. They have personally experienced vivid phenomena such as out-of-body experiences, encounters with a bright light, meetings with deceased loved ones, and a sense of overwhelming peace and love. These personally experienced accounts of NDE serve as a powerful affirmation that the afterlife is not only real but also overwhelmingly positive. This section explores how various elements of NDEs - such as the reluctance to return, feelings of peace, and encounters with benevolent entities - support the belief in a positive afterlife.

The Reluctance to Return

One of the most striking features of NDEs is the experiencer's reluctance to return to their physical body. Many individuals report feeling profound disappointment or sadness when they are told, often by a perceived divine presence or deceased loved one, that they must return to their earthly life. This reluctance underscores the intense beauty and peace associated with the realms they have visited. For example, some individuals describe these realms as places of unconditional love, vibrant landscapes, and a sense of being "home." The strong desire to remain in this state suggests that the afterlife is perceived as an overwhelmingly positive and fulfilling experience.[30]

Feelings of Peace and Love

A common thread in NDE accounts is the experience of unparalleled peace and love. Many individuals report feelings of complete acceptance and the absence of pain, fear, or judgment. These sensations often occur in the presence of a bright light or a divine entity that emanates unconditional love. Such experiences provide a stark contrast to the struggles and challenges of earthly life, reinforcing the idea that the afterlife offers a sanctuary of peace and comfort. For those who experience an NDE, these feelings often translate into a belief that the afterlife will be a place of infinite compassion and serenity.[31]

Encounters with Benevolent Entities

Another key aspect of NDEs is the presence of benevolent entities, such as deceased loved ones, spiritual guides, or divine beings. These encounters are often described as warm, reassuring, and deeply meaningful. Many experiencers report receiving messages of love, encouragement, or guidance, further solidifying the belief that the afterlife is a place of connection and positivity. The joy and reassurance felt during these interactions suggest that the afterlife is not a solitary or isolating experience but rather one filled with love and support.[32]

Transformative Life Changes

The impact of NDEs on those who experience them also supports the belief in a positive afterlife. Many individuals return from an NDE with a renewed sense of purpose, reduced fear of death, and a deeper appreciation for life. These transformations often stem from the conviction that they have glimpsed a realm of profound beauty and love. The lasting positive effects on their lives serve as further evidence of the positive nature of the afterlife, as the experience leaves them with a sense of hope and reassurance about what lies beyond.[33]

Conclusion

Near-death experiences provide compelling support for the belief that the afterlife will be a positive experience. The reluctance to return to earthly life, the feelings of peace and unconditional love, encounters with benevolent entities, and the transformative effects of these experiences all point to the afterlife as a realm of beauty, connection, and fulfillment. For those who have undergone an NDE, these experiences serve as a profound source of comfort and inspiration, affirming that death is not an end but a transition to something profoundly positive.

4.2. The Mind Before the End of Life

Death is a dimensional change of the mind in both time and space. The transition is from being a point of view within time and space to all of time and space. The transition takes place in an instant. Here is a diagram of awareness during life. Notice the position of awareness at the center of space. From this perspective, we are looking from the inside (awareness) to the outside (memory). That looks like this:

4.3. The Mind After the End of Life

In the previous example, we showed awareness as a tiny red dot in the middle of the system. In this illustration below, we show awareness as having expanded outward throughout memory. A near-death experience is the closest look we get at afterlife during life. Here is a depiction of awareness after having expanded into memory:

Three hundred million people have experienced a near-death experience. The accounts that these people come back with provide us with real tangible evidence of what happens near the end of life. The characteristics they describe are profoundly similar. Here we show common statements made by people who have gone through a Near-death experience. These statements were made by people bearing witness to the mind transitioning to space and time during an NDE.

4.4. Near-Death Experiences: Evidence for the Afterlife

The question of whether there is life after death has captivated human thought for centuries. Among the phenomena that provide insight into this profound mystery are near-death experiences (NDEs). NDEs are vivid, often transformative experiences reported by individuals who have been on the brink of death or temporarily declared clinically dead before being revived. These experiences frequently include encounters with a bright light, feelings of peace, out-of-body experiences, and meetings with deceased loved ones. While interpretations of NDEs vary, they present a compelling case for the existence of an afterlife.

Characteristics of Near-Death Experiences

NDEs are characterized by several recurring elements. Many individuals report floating above their bodies, observing medical procedures, or overhearing conversations they could not physically hear due to their condition. Others describe moving through a tunnel toward a bright, comforting light or meeting spiritual beings or deceased relatives. Such experiences are often accompanied by a profound sense of peace and detachment from the physical body. Researchers like Dr. Raymond Moody, who coined the term "near-death experience," have documented these patterns in his seminal work, Life After Life [34].

Empirical Evidence Supporting the Afterlife

One of the most compelling arguments for the validity of NDEs as evidence for the afterlife is the veridical perception reported during out-of-body experiences. Some individuals accurately describe events or details from a vantage point outside their physical bodies that were later verified by others. For example, Dr. Pim van Lommel, a cardiologist, documented cases in which patients described surgical procedures or conversations occurring while they were clinically dead [35]. These accounts challenge the assumption that consciousness is purely a product of brain activity. Moreover, the transformative nature of NDEs strengthens the argument for their authenticity. Experiencers often report losing their fear of death and developing a deeper sense of spirituality or purpose. Such profound and consistent changes suggest that NDEs are not merely hallucinations or byproducts of a dying brain but rather glimpses into a reality beyond the physical.

Universality Across Cultures

NDEs transcend cultural, religious, and geographic boundaries. Studies have shown that individuals from diverse backgrounds describe similar experiences, including a sense of leaving the body, traveling through a tunnel, and encountering a loving presence [36]. This universality supports the idea that NDEs reflect a common, underlying reality rather than culturally or neurologically induced phenomena.

Scientific and Philosophical Challenges

Skeptics argue that NDEs can be explained through neurological or physiological processes, such as oxygen deprivation, the release of endorphins, or brain activity during trauma [37].

However, these explanations fail to account for the clarity and consistency of NDE reports, as well as the verifiable information provided by some experiences. Philosophically, NDEs challenge the consensus view that consciousness arises solely from brain function. The phenomenon aligns with the Theory of Afterlife, suggesting that at the end of life, we have conscious awareness surrounded by memory contains all physical space and time, relative to that individual. NDE dovetails perfectly with this view in every detail, thus providing evidence of afterlife.

4.5. Conclusion - NDE Predicted by Theory of Afterlife

Near-death experiences provide compelling evidence for the existence of an afterlife. Their recurring characteristics, verifiable elements, and profound impact on individuals offer insights that challenge materialist assumptions about consciousness and death. While skeptics propose alternative explanations, the universality and transformative nature of NDEs make them impossible to dismiss as mere hallucinations. As research into NDEs continues, they are becoming a more powerful testament that life exists beyond the physical realm.

The Theory of Afterlife states that life transitions from position in space and time to become all space and time. The mind does this because memory contains everything at the end of life. The consistency of NDE accounts from those who have witnessed it is far too prevalent to ignore. We hear the same set of characteristics over and over. There is no plausible scientific explanation for NDE. The theory of memory as another dimension, however, explains it fully and perfectly. NDE bears witness to the mind becoming all time and space at the end of life.

Proceed To Proof Of Afterlife Evidence - Virtual Reality

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Footnotes

[1] Blackmore, S. (1993). "Near-death experiences: In or out of the body?" Skeptical Inquirer, 17(1), 34-45.
[2] Van Lommel, P., et al. (2001). "Near-death experience in survivors of cardiac arrest: A prospective study in the Netherlands." The Lancet, 358(9298), 2039-2045.
[3] Greyson, B. (2003). "Incidence and correlates of near-death experiences in a cardiac care unit." General Hospital Psychiatry, 25(4), 269-276.
[4] Morse, M. L., Castillo, C. A., Venecia, D., Milstein, J., & Tyler, D. C. (1986). "Childhood near-death experiences." American Journal of Diseases of Children, 140(11), 1110-1114.
[5]: Greyson, B. (2003). Incidence and correlates of near-death experiences in a cardiac care unit. *General Hospital Psychiatry*, 25(4), 269-276.
[6]: Blanke, O., & Arzy, S. (2005). The out-of-body experience: Disturbed self-processing at the temporo-parietal junction. *The Neuroscientist*, 11(1), 16-24.
[7]: Blackmore, S. (1996). Dying to live: Near-death experiences. *Prometheus Books*.
[8]: Nelson, K. R., Mattingly, M., & Schmitt, F. A. (2006). Out-of-body experience and arousal. *Neurology*, 66(7), 1003-1009.
[9]: Morse, M. L., & Perry, P. (1992). *Transformed by the light*. Villard Books.
[10]: Martial, C., et al. (2020). Neurochemical models of near-death experiences. *Frontiers in Psychology*, 11, 617920.
[11]: Ring, K. (1980). *Life at death: A scientific investigation of the near-death experience*. Coward, McCann & Geoghegan.
[12]: Noyes, R., & Slymen, D. J. (1978). The subjective response to life-threatening danger. *Omega: Journal of Death and Dying*, 8(3), 195-208.
[13]: Greyson, B. (2003). "Incidence and Correlates of Near-Death Experiences in a Cardiac Care Unit." *General Hospital Psychiatry*, 25(4), 269-276.
[14]: Van Lommel, P., et al. (2001). "Near-Death Experience in Survivors of Cardiac Arrest: A Prospective Study in the Netherlands." *The Lancet*, 358(9298), 2039-2045.
[15]: Moody, R. (1975). *Life After Life: The Investigation of a Phenomenon = Survival of Bodily Death.* New York: Bantam Books.
[16]: Ring, K. (1980). *Life at Death: A Scientific Investigation of the Near-Death Experience.* New York: Coward, McCann & Geoghegan.
[17]: Long, J., & Perry, P. (2010). *Evidence of the Afterlife: The Science of Near-Death Experiences.* New York: HarperOne.
[18]: Moorjani, A. (2012). *Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing*. Hay House.
[19]: Greyson, B. (2014). "Near-death experiences and medical records: A review of the evidence." *Journal of Near-Death Studies*, 32(2), 127-146.
[20]: Blanke, O., & Arzy, S. (2005). The out-of-body experience: Disturbed self-processing at the temporo-parietal junction. *The Neuroscientist*, 11(1), 16-24.
[21]: Van Lommel, P. (2010). *Consciousness Beyond Life: The Science of the Near-Death Experience*. HarperOne.
[22]: Moody, R. A. (1975). *Life After Life: The Investigation of a Phenomenon - Survival of Bodily Death*. Bantam Books.
[23]: Zaleski, C. (1987). *Otherworld Journeys: Accounts of Near-Death Experience in Medieval and Modern Times*. Oxford University Press.
[24]: Morse, M., & Perry, P. (1990). *Closer to the Light: Learning from the Near-Death Experiences of Children*. Villard Books.
[25]: Blackmore, S. (1996). *Dying to Live: Near-Death Experiences*. Prometheus Books.
[26]: Sabom, M. B. (1998). *Light and Death: One Doctor's Fascinating Account of Near-Death Experiences.* Grand Rapids: Zondervan.
[27]: Moody, R. (1975). *Life After Life: The Investigation of a Phenomenon - Survival of Bodily Death.* New York: Bantam Books.
[28]: Long, J., & Perry, P. (2010). *Evidence of the Afterlife: The Science of Near-Death Experiences.* New York: HarperOne.
[29]: Greyson, B. (2007). "Near-Death Experiences and the Brain." *Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences*, 1124(1), 1-9.
[30]: Moody, Raymond. Life After Life: The Investigation of a Phenomenon - Survival of Bodily Death. HarperOne, 1975.
[31]: Greyson, Bruce. "The Near-Death Experience Scale: Construction, Reliability, and Validity." Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, vol. 171, no. 6, 1983, pp. 369-375.
[32]: Long, Jeffrey, and Paul Perry. Evidence of the Afterlife: The Science of Near-Death Experiences. HarperOne, 2010.
[33]: Ring, Kenneth. Heading Toward Omega: In Search of the Meaning of the Near-Death Experience. Harper & Row, 1984.
[34]: Moody, Raymond. Life After Life. New York: HarperOne, 1975.
[35]: Van Lommel, Pim. "Near-Death Experience in Survivors of Cardiac Arrest: A Prospective Study in the Netherlands." The Lancet, vol. 358, no. 9298, 2001, pp. 2039-2045.
[36]: Kellehear, Allan. Experiences Near Death: Beyond Medicine and Religion. Oxford University Press, 1996.
[37]: Blackmore, Susan. Dying to Live: Near-Death Experiences. Prometheus Books, 1993.

Bibliography

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• Blackmore, Susan. *Dying to Live: Near-Death Experiences*. Prometheus Books, 1996.
• Blackmore, Susan. Dying to Live: Near-Death Experiences. Prometheus Books, 1993.
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• Greyson, B. (2003). "Incidence and Correlates of Near-Death Experiences in a Cardiac Care Unit." *General Hospital Psychiatry*, 25(4), 269-276.
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• Greyson, Bruce. "Near-death experiences and medical records: A review of the evidence." *Journal of Near-Death Studies*, vol. 32, no. 2, 2014, pp. 127-146.
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• Kellehear, Allan. Experiences Near Death: Beyond Medicine and Religion. Oxford University Press, 1996.
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• Moody, Raymond. Life After Life. New York: HarperOne, 1975.
• Moorjani, Anita. *Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing*. Hay House, 2012.
• Morse, M. L., Castillo, C. A., Venecia, D., Milstein, J., & Tyler, D. C. (1986). "Childhood near-death experiences." American Journal of Diseases of Children, 140(11), 1110-1114.
• Morse, Melvin L., and Paul Perry. *Transformed by the Light*. Villard Books, 1992.
• Morse, Melvin, and Paul Perry. *Closer to the Light: Learning from the Near-Death Experiences of Children*. Villard Books, 1990.
• Nelson, Kevin R., et al. "Out-of-body experience and arousal." *Neurology*, vol. 66, no. 7, 2006, pp. 1003-1009.
• Noyes, Russell, and David J. Slymen. "The subjective response to life-threatening danger." *Omega: Journal of Death and Dying*, vol. 8, no. 3, 1978, pp. 195-208.
• Ring, Kenneth. *Life at Death: A Scientific Investigation of the Near-Death Experience*. Coward, McCann & Geoghegan, 1980.
• Ring, Kenneth. Heading Toward Omega: In Search of the Meaning of the Near-Death Experience. Harper & Row, 1984.
• Sabom, M. B. (1998). *Light and Death: One Doctor's Fascinating Account of Near-Death Experiences.* Grand Rapids: Zondervan.
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• Van Lommel, Pim. *Consciousness Beyond Life: The Science of the Near-Death Experience*. HarperOne, 2010.
• Zaleski, Carol. *Otherworld Journeys: Accounts of Near-Death Experience in Medieval and Modern Times*. Oxford University Press, 1987.