Significance of The other world
The other world, as conceptualized in various spiritual traditions, refers to a realm beyond physical existence, commonly associated with the afterlife and spiritual dimensions. In Jainism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Ayurveda, it signifies a metaphysical space where souls reside post-death, reflecting their earthly actions. Purana and Vedanta expand this idea, portraying it as a metaphysical domain that influences life through consequences and offers enlightenment opportunities. Similarly, Dharmashastra connects it to heaven, delineating various paths to reach this spiritual realm based on one's deeds.
Synonyms: Afterlife, Dream world, Different dimension, Another 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 'The other world'
The other world in Buddhism signifies a distinct realm from our physical existence, characterized by different states or conditions. It represents a metaphysical domain, often dismissed by materialists, emphasizing the contrast between spiritual and material perspectives.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A concept referring to a realm distinct from our own, often associated with differing states or conditions.[1] (2) A metaphysical realm or existence believed to be separate from the physical world, which materialists, according to the text, reject.[2]
Hindu concept of 'The other world'
The other world in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations, emphasizing the spiritual afterlife, continuity of the soul, and consequences of actions, while also representing realms beyond physical existence and opportunities for enlightenment.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A realm beyond the earthly existence where the consequences of one's actions on Earth manifest in different forms.[3] (2) The realm beyond the physical existence, encompassing spiritual dimensions and realms.[4] (3) A metaphysical realm beyond death where souls journey after leaving their physical bodies.[5] (4) A metaphor for death, representing the ultimate destination for fallen warriors in the context of battle.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The world that is recounted in scriptures, suggesting a spiritual realm beyond the physical existence.[7]
From: Anugita (English translation)
(1) Refers to the realm beyond the physical existence, often associated with spiritual or metaphysical states.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A term referring to an afterlife or realm beyond the present existence.[9]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Alludes to an alternate existence beyond physical life, perceived similarly to a dream.[10]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A metaphoric realm or state that refers to the afterlife or consequences following death.[11] (2) A reference to heaven or the supernatural realm that is associated with the consequences of one's actions.[12] (3) A term used to refer to the afterlife or spiritual realm, often contrasting with earthly existence.[13] (4) In this context, it refers to the realm beyond this life where the Pitris exist and where the consequences of earthly offerings are realized.[14] (5) A reference to the afterlife or heaven, which is suggested to not be attainable for women who disregard their husbands.[15]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A reference to the spiritual realms or afterlife, which individuals hope to reach through various means, including the decoration of the body after death.[16] (2) The realm that does not get filled up due to the ongoing rebirth of those in the third position.[17] (3) Refers to the spiritual or afterlife realm, often associated with heaven.[18] (4) An implied spiritual realm or afterlife where individuals may go based on their actions in this world.[19]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) The other world refers to a spiritual realm beyond the physical existence that offers opportunities for higher understanding and enlightenment.[20]
From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)
(1) A reference to life after death, where individuals are believed to dwell after passing from the material realm.[21]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) The philosophical pursuit of understanding the spirit's continuity and the influences of past actions on present life.[22]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) A metaphysical realm concerning life after death and the results of one's actions, heavily queried by the characters.[23]
Jain concept of 'The other world'
In Jainism, "the other world" signifies the afterlife or a spiritual realm transcending physical existence, where individuals, particularly monks, are destined to journey post-mortem, emphasizing the belief in a spiritual continuation beyond earthly life.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The afterlife or a different realm where the monk is destined to go.[24]
From: The Naladiyar
(1) Commonly refers to the afterlife or a spiritual realm beyond the physical existence.[25]