Significance of Heavenly realms
The concept of the Heavenly realm varies across different religious teachings. In Buddhism, it signifies divine worlds filled with temporary joy but surrounded by suffering, while Vaishnavism views it as a higher spiritual plane achieved through yajnas and good deeds. The Puranas describe it as destinations pursued through righteous actions, with Vishnu’s highest heaven being particularly esteemed. Shaivism and Mahayana recognize it as ultimate spiritual fulfilling states attained through virtuous living, illustrating that the Heavenly realm is accessible by those committed to righteousness and devotion.
Synonyms: Paradise, Divine kingdom, Celestial sphere, Spiritual realm, Afterlife, Celestial kingdom, Divine abode, Spiritual world
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Heavenly realms'
The Heavenly realm in Buddhism signifies auspicious afterlife conditions, spiritual destinations from righteous living, experiences of happiness in cosmic environments, and higher planes achieved through virtuous actions, embodying temporary joy and representing ultimate spiritual goals.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The various celestial worlds where virtuous beings can be reborn, as represented by the six deities and their chariots.[1] (2) The noble abodes or states of being that one can reach through virtuous living.[2] (3) A state of existence referred to as devaloka, where beings experience happiness; the verse states that mean individuals do not reach these realms.[3] (4) The state of existence that represents ultimate pleasure and joy, associated with heavenly beings beyond the earthly experience.[4]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) States of existence rewarded for virtuous living, contrasted with hellish realms for sinful actions as described in the teachings.[5] (2) The higher plane that is depicted as the ultimate goal for those who live righteously, serve their parents, and follow the moral laws.[6] (3) Refers to the spiritual destinations that one may attain through righteous living and enlightenment, representing the ultimate goal of spiritual pursuits.[7]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Refers to the auspicious afterlife conditions that await a generous donor, as indicated in the Buddha's teaching.[8]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) Cosmic environments described in Buddhist teachings where sentient beings experience happiness and fulfillment.[9]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) Various levels of existence categorized as a result of good karma, where beings experience bliss.[10]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The divine or celestial worlds where gods experience existence, often filled with temporary joy but surrounded by suffering.[11]
Hindu concept of 'Heavenly realms'
In Hinduism, the Heavenly realm signifies spiritual worlds beyond the material universe, hosting divine beings. It represents higher states of existence attainable through righteous actions, devotion, and significant rituals, ultimately leading to blissful union with the divine.
From: Vishnu Purana (Taylor)
(1) The different domains assigned to each community based on their adherence to duties and responsibilities.[12] (2) A place that Krishna promises the garland-maker will attain by recalling him, representing spiritual reward.[13] (3) Spiritual realms attainable through righteous actions and selfless living.[14] (4) The desired place of existence that the king wishes to reach, associated with pleasure and divinity.[15]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The spiritual plane or afterlife destinations that are pursued through righteous actions, specifically emphasized in the text regarding the effects of bathing in Magha.[16] (2) Vishnu’s highest heaven, a place described as difficult to attain, reserved for the pure and devoted.[17]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The ultimate spiritual destination that Shabari hopes to reach through her ascetic practices and devotion.[18]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) The realm attained by entities through pious actions and chanting that leads to divine encounters.[19]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) The various divine or celestial abodes where beings such as Devas, Siddhas, and Caranas exist, often depicted as higher states of existence.[20]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The spiritual worlds that are believed to exist beyond the material universe, often associated with divine beings.[21]
From: Tiruvacakam Part I
(1) The ultimate destinations in spiritual practice, representing the state of bliss, union, and fulfillment with the divine.[22]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A higher spiritual plane that can be reached through the performance of significant yajnas and good deeds.[23]