Ep 1. Beyond Death
- TV-14
- April 3, 2016
- 50 min
-
7.5 (443)
In the first episode of the documentary series, "The Story of God with Morgan Freeman," the all-knowing actor and narrator explores the concept of life after death and the many different beliefs and practices that exist around the world. Entitled "Beyond Death," Freeman takes viewers on a journey across the globe to explore the mystery and wonder of what happens to us once we pass on.
As Freeman explains, death is a universal human experience that has puzzled humanity for millennia. While death is a natural part of life, what happens to us after we die is a question that has sparked a multitude of beliefs and traditions throughout human history. Some believe in an afterlife, others believe in reincarnation, while some believe that the soul simply ceases to exist once the body dies.
Throughout the episode, Freeman visits various religious sites and speaks with different faiths to try and gain a better understanding of their beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife. He visits a Hindu temple in Varanasi, India, where he witnesses a cremation ceremony and learns about the Hindu belief in reincarnation. He also visits a Christian cemetery and speaks with a theologian about the Christian understanding of the afterlife and the resurrection of the body.
Freeman also examines more ancient beliefs about death and the afterlife. He travels to Egypt to explore the ancient Egyptian concept of the afterlife and the journey the soul must undertake in order to reach the afterlife. He also visits Mexico to learn about the Aztec belief in the underworld and the god of death, Mictlantecuhtli.
Throughout the episode, Freeman also turns to science to help unravel some of the mysteries surrounding death. He visits a neuroscientist who is studying the near-death experiences of patients who have been clinically dead but have been revived. These experiences, Freeman explains, offer clues to what happens to the brain and consciousness during the dying process.
The episode also touches on the topic of grief and the human need to understand what happens to us after we die. Freeman speaks with a grief counselor who helps people cope with the loss of loved ones, offering insight into how different religious and cultural traditions can provide comfort and understanding during times of mourning.
Overall, "Beyond Death" offers a thought-provoking exploration of one of humanity's most enduring and universal questions. Freeman's natural curiosity and warm presence make for a compelling guide on this journey to explore the mystery and wonder of what happens to us all at the end of our lives.