Significance of Rupadhatu
Rupadhatu, in Mahayana Buddhism, refers to the realm of form, where beings exist in a less material state compared to the realm of desire (kamadhatu). It is also called Brahmaloka, the world of Brahma gods, and includes four dhyanas and numerous god groups. Beings in Rupadhatu can be reborn and may achieve the status of arhats after becoming anagamin. This realm signifies a higher spiritual evolution, allowing existence free from extreme desires, yet still within the cycle of rebirth.
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Buddhist concept of 'Rupadhatu'
Rupadhatu in Buddhism, also known as the form realm, is a higher existence where beings possess form and are spiritually advanced. It contrasts with the desire realm, allowing anagamins to achieve parinirvana while still bound to the cycle of rebirth.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The realm or domain associated with form, significant in Buddhist cosmology and meditation.[1] (2) The form realm, where beings having form and structure exist, distinct from the desire realm.[2] (3) The realm of forms, encompassing beings that possess physical bodies, representing a higher state than kamadhatu but still within the cycle of rebirth.[3] (4) The form realm, where beings experience existence without the most extreme forms of desire.[4] (5) The realm to which anagamins go and where they receive parinirvana.[5]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Rupadhatu refers to the realm of form, which contains seventeen locations made up of various dhyanas.[6] (2) The realm of form, where entities experience existence in a more refined, but still attached way compared to Kamadhatu.[7]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The element of visible objects in the context of perception.[8]