Preexistence (noun)

1. The existence of something before it comes into being or before a particular event or time.
2. The existence of a soul or spirit before its incarnation in a physical body.

Origin:

Late middle english: from old french preexistence or latin praeexistere, from prae 'before' + existere 'exist'.

Examples:

1. The concept of preexistence in Christian theology.
2. The idea of the soul's preexistence has been around for centuries.
3. Preexistence is often associated with reincarnation.
4. The preexistence of the universe was a hotly debated topic among scientists.
5. The doctrine of the preexistence of Christ is central to Christian theology.