According to traditional theological views, where do souls come from?

The belief that souls are created by God for each individual at conception is rooted in traditional theological views, particularly within the Judeo-Christian perspective. This view asserts that each human being is endowed with a unique soul, which is distinct from the physical body and originates directly from divine creation. Thus, at the moment of conception, God imparts a soul to the developing individual, marking the beginning of their spiritual existence.

This understanding emphasizes the belief in the sanctity and individuality of each soul, highlighting the intentional act of God in the creation of human life. It affirms the idea that everyone has a purpose and value rooted in their creation, which further informs many religious and moral frameworks concerning the nature of life, personhood, and conscience.

The other options represent alternative views that do not align with traditional theological positions. For instance, the idea that souls are a result of evolution suggests a naturalistic explanation that does not account for direct divine intervention. The notion that souls are inherited from parents implies a biological process of transmission rather than a direct creation by God. Lastly, the belief that souls existed before birth relates more to certain philosophical or metaphysical theories, which diverge from the mainstream theological understanding of soul creation at conception.