Did our soul willfully chose to manifest in this world or were we trapped into this existence?

I don't believe there is a perfect religion but my impression is that all claim to be perfect. Believers trying to reconcile imperfections (e.g in the bible) are left either in a turmoil or just stop thinking.

We are not perfect so I assume my understanding of this path to enlightenment will also be less than perfect.

Is the purpose of our existence in this density part of our soul's evolution or are we victims, entrapped by more powerful beings?