Significance of Celestial realms
The Celestial realm in various spiritual traditions is defined as higher states of existence associated with joy, enlightenment, and divine beings. In Buddhism, it encompasses blissful planes attained through virtuous practices, while in Vaishnavism, it refers specifically to the divine abode of deities like Vaikuntha. The concept also appears in Hindu cosmology where it is portrayed as a heavenly space inhabited by divine beings. Overall, the Celestial realm symbolizes the ultimate aspiration for spiritual fulfillment and liberation across these belief systems.
Synonyms: Astral plane, Spiritual realm, Sky, Universe, Heaven, Cosmos, Firmament, Outer space
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Celestial realms'
The Celestial realm in Buddhism symbolizes higher spiritual dimensions characterized by purity, enlightenment, and divine existence. It represents aspirational states where beings experience happiness and fulfillments like bodhisattvas, achieved through good karma and spiritual practices.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Higher spiritual planes where beings experience joy and enlightenment, contrasted with lower states of existence.[1] (2) Higher worlds inhabited by divine beings, often associated with happiness and spiritual fulfillment.[2] (3) Refers to the blissful, divine grounds associated with the practices of bodhisattvas and the appearances of wrathful mandalas and heavenly dakinis.[3] (4) Higher states of existence that ordinary people aspire to reach through their refuge practices.[4] (5) The higher planes of existence or consciousness associated with divine beings and spiritual purity.[5]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) A higher existence where the future Buddha is reborn, specifically among the thirty-three gods; marked by positive karma and a perfect body.[6] (2) The realms of existence where beings may attain high states such as those of Brahma and Indra through the practice of bodhicitta.[7]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) Various heavenly worlds where divine beings such as devas and spirits reside.[8]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Celestial realms pertain to the heavenly domains occupied by devas, symbolizing a realm of beauty, virtue, and higher consciousness.[9]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) Spiritual domains of existence characterized by purity and enlightenment, to which an empowered individual aspires.[10] (2) Higher planes of existence where beings experience greater happiness and enlightenment.[11] (3) Divine or heavenly realms where beings experience happiness and virtue, which one may access after empowerment.[12] (4) The dimensions or planes of existence that are inhabited by enlightened beings and spiritual entities.[13]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A metaphorical description of Amaravati, likening it to a heavenly place full of abundance and joy.[14]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The six realms of existence (sagga) associated with divine beings or those who experience a higher form of existence.[15]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The higher planes of existence inhabited by Devas and Devis, characterized by abundance of sensual pleasures.[16]
Hindu concept of 'Celestial realms'
The Celestial realm in Hinduism denotes higher planes of existence, such as Bhuvarloka and Vaikuntha, significant as divine abodes of deities, spiritual purity, and power, often linked to liberation and the afterlife.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The divine afterlife or heavenly place where Sita is said to have reached through her ascetic practices.[17] (2) A divine or heavenly space that is often depicted as a place of great power and prosperity.[18] (3) The heavenly domain from which beings such as Kinneras, Uragas, Gandharvas, and Vidyadharas originate.[19] (4) The heavenly domain that could be safeguarded by the monarch if not for his malevolent actions.[20] (5) The realm of the Gods that Mandhata aspired to conquer, which led to concerns from Indra.[21]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The divine dimensions inhabited by gods and beings that play a critical role in the Hindu cosmology.[22]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A heavenly or divine place, often associated with spiritual purity and the abode of deities.[23] (2) A higher and divine plane of existence, specifically referencing the realm of Vaikuntha, which is highly regarded in spiritual contexts.[24]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Celestial realms refer to the higher planes of existence, including Bhuvarloka, Svarloka, Maharloka, and Janaloka.[25] (2) a heavenly or divine domain, often associated with gods or higher beings[26]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) The divine or heavenly domain where one resides after attaining liberation.[27]