[2] The idea of soulmates is found in Judaism and Hinduism but was popularized in the 19th-century Theosophy religion and modern New Age philosophy.
[3] In the modern day, soulmate typically refers to a romantic or platonic partner, implying an exclusive lifelong bond.
This poem became popular due to its customary weekly recital by traditional Jews during their final Shabbos/Shabbat meal, seudah shlishit, as a means of comfort during the day's waning moments.
The poem opens as a declaration of love and connection to one's Creator, stating: "Yedid Nefesh, Av HaRachaman – My Soulmate, Father of Compassion."
Its composition is commonly attributed to that book's publisher, Rabbi Elazar ben Moshe Azikri (1533–1600).
The Hebrew word Yedid, meaning close mate or dear friend, is first found in Deuteronomy, chapter 33, verse 12.
While this poem is known by its opening refrain, Yedid Nefesh/Soulmate, in the 18th-century prayer book of Rabbi Jacob Emden, he records its official title as: "Song of Awakening of the Soul-Toward the Love of Blessed Hashem (the Name)" (translation from his original Hebrew).
[11] The woman destined to become the true companion of man, Eve, was taken from Adam's body, for only when like is joined unto like the union is indissoluble.
[12] It's a common belief that before mankind multiplied, each baby boy was born with his soulmate as his twin sister.
According to philosopher Osho, two souls are bonded when the seven chakras of a man are in tune and harmony with all seven of a woman, creating a sense of completeness.
[15] The story of a married couple Rāma and Sītā, told in the ancient mythological Indian epic Rāmāyaṇa, depicts the transformative power of love.
[16][better source needed] According to the esoteric religious movement Theosophy, whose claims were modified by Edgar Cayce, God created androgynous souls—equally male and female.
[21] When they arrive in the world, the blessed Holy One[definition needed] matches these couples who are half-souls or twin flames.
[citation needed] Some psychologists state that believing that a soulmate exists specifically for a person is an unrealistic expectation.