What are Doppelgangers?

The origin of the expression doppelganger is rooted from Germany where it means “doppel (double)” and “ganger (walker).”  Several theories have been developed to address the meaning of sighting one’s twin or doppelganger. One idea relates a doppelganger is a specter that fulfills the desires of the twin.  Another’s believe witnessing an exact double is a bad omen. Still many more argue these reflective apparitions only appear to people with mental illness, drug fueled visions, heightened awareness or overactive imaginations.

A negative doppelganger is reflected when an individual’s wicked personality manifests itself. These negative entities complete evil or malicious acts or which the normal (good) personality would never have the callousness to carry-out. These ideals evolved from the traditional Taoism belief reflected by the yin and yang symbol or equally good and evil halves create the whole. Often people crave for something so greatly their subconscious manifests into a doppelganger fulfill their desires. These events can be compared to episodes of “sleep-walking.” The individual is unaware of his/her actions. Likewise, the doppelganger completes a specific task without the “good half” having any conscious knowledge or involvement.

Many imagine seeing a doppelganger is a premonition of personal pending doom or foreshadowing death. These spectral visions are thought to be evidence of one’s soul departing the body before death occurs. One of the best known occurrences of witnessing a doppelganger happened when former American president Abraham Lincoln viewed his reflection.   The 16th president stated one evening he was awakened by a knocking at his bed chamber door. When he responded, he was greeted by his own doppelganger. Many associate Lincoln’s omen with his murder several days later.  Likewise, several catastrophe survivors report, witnessing mishaps from different locations while their physical bodies are elsewhere at the time of the accident.  Could these visions be the souls or doppelgangers of the accident victim departing their bodies prior to the approaching dangers?