Spirit or soul; the central aspect of life/mentality. Often used as 'tamashii' in everyday language and paired with 'pò' (魄) in classical or religious contexts.
彼は演劇に魂（こん）を込めて取り組んでいる。
He devotes his soul/spirit to his acting.
先祖の魂（こん）を慰めるために毎年お盆に墓参りをする家庭が多い。
Many families visit graves every Obon to comfort the souls of their ancestors.
その音楽は聴く人の魂を揺さぶる力がある。
That music has the power to move the listener's soul.