First, no one in their right minds thinks that it would be appropriate to "heap scorn" upon parents who find themselves comforted by this kind of soul talk. But Asma claims that talk of a soul in this sort of context isn't meant descriptively and therefore not subject to the usual standards of evidence. I don't see that. It seems to me that the priest means to comfort the parents by presenting a picture of reality for which there is no evidence. If he'd said "I hope you'll see your son again" that wouldn't have comforted the parents unless they themselves believed that reality works a certain way and that their loss is merely a temporary separation. ]]>