Significance of Kamadhatu
Kamadhatu refers to the realm of desire in Buddhist cosmology, characterized by sensuality and the physical existence of beings driven by desires. This realm is perceived as impure and deceptive, encompassing individuals who experience various levels of attachment and sensory experiences. Practitioners often strive to overcome the influences of Kamadhatu through meditation, as it represents a condition that affects the mind. It is also associated with the abode of gods and is a crucial concept in understanding different planes of existence in Buddhism.
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Buddhist concept of 'Kamadhatu'
Kamadhatu, in Buddhism, signifies the desire realm, characterized by beings driven by sensory experiences and attachments. It encompasses various levels of existence and reflects a dimension practitioners aim to transcend through meditation and enlightened understanding.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The realm of desire, where the minds exist in the first, second, third, and fourth dhyanas.[1] (2) The realm of desire in Buddhist cosmology, from which practitioners seek liberation through practices like the Pratyutpannasamadhi.[2] (3) The realm of desire, which must be transcended to achieve the first dhyana.[3] (4) The realm of sensory desire that the ascetic transcends by cutting daurmanasya (sadness).[4] (5) The realm associated with desire, which influences the first dhyana and its nirmanacittas.[5]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) The realm of desire, which is the focus of certain meditation practices.[6] (2) Kamadhatu consists of hell, the Pretas, animals, humans, and six gods. It represents the realm of desire, with a total of twenty beings arising from divisions among hells and continents.[7] (3) The sphere of desire.[8] (4) The realm of desire where attachment and previous karmic actions manifest in experiences of suffering and distraction.[9]
The concept of 'Kamadhatu' in local and regional sources
Kamadhatu represents the realm of desire, impacting the minds of beings negatively. This concept highlights the challenges and attachments individuals face due to their desires, influencing their overall mental state and experience.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The world of desire; a condition that adversely affects the mind of beings.[10]