Significance of Three worlds

In Indian history, Three worlds often refers to the different realms of existence, encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions. This concept is found across various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, often symbolizing heaven, earth, and the underworld. It represents the entirety of existence, highlighting the vastness of spiritual pursuits and the interconnectedness of all beings within these realms.1
gallery thumb

In Dutch: Drie werelden; In Finnish: Kolme maailmaa; In Spanish: Tres mundos; In German: Drei Welten; In Swedish: Tre världar; In Malay: Tiga dunia; In French: Trois mondes; In Polish: Trójświat; In Italian: Tre mondi; In Portugese: Três mundos

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Three worlds'

Buddhism Books

In Buddhism, the "Three Worlds" encompass realms of existence: desire, form, and formlessness. These realms are often seen as places of suffering and attachment, where beings experience cycles of birth and rebirth. Liberation is sought through transcending these realms and attaining enlightenment.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)

(1) These are the places where people will fall into, including the desire realm, the form realm, and the formless realm.[1] (2) This refers to the nose, smells, and the realm of smelling, and their origins in causes and conditions, or their natures, which are considered empty and false.[2] (3) This refers to the three realms of existence, and if one cannot cut off sexual desire, they will not be able to get out of this realm.[3] (4) A classification in Buddhism that includes the realm of desire, the realm of form, and the formless realm, which delineate different states of existence based on attachment and afflictions.[4] (5) The realm of existence in which beings cycle through birth, death, and rebirth, associated with suffering and attachment.[5]

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) He receives the crucial anointment with the elixir of wisdom: he is the elder in this.[6] (2) The Mahayanist destroys the prison of the triple world, according to the text.[7] (3) Relates to the complexities of existence and perception according to Buddhist philosophy as presented by the Buddha.[8] (4) The various existential planes that are influenced by different experiences of suffering and enlightenment.[9] (5) The realm of existence consisting of desire, form, and formlessness, which should not be mistaken as ultimate reality.[10]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) The realms of existence (including the realms of desire, form, and formlessness) within which beings experience life, suffering, and enlightenment.[11] (2) The realms of existence within Buddhist cosmology that encompass rebirth: the realm of desire, form, and formlessness.[12] (3) A concept referring to the realms of existence—representing a wide-reaching impact of the person in the dreams.[13] (4) The realms of existence impacted by the actions and teachings of the Buddha, signifying the scope of his influence.[14]

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)

(1) The realms of existence where sentient beings cycle through birth, life, and death, including hell realms.[15] (2) The realms of existence that sentient beings inhabit, which Kshitigarbha is concerned with, particularly focusing on those who have not yet left them.[16] (3) The cyclic existence of beings within the realms of desire, form, and formlessness that one seeks to transcend.[17] (4) The domains of existence over which the Buddha entrusts the care of all sentient beings to Kshitigarbha in the narrative.[18]

From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)

(1) The triple world is a realm where the Tathagata, who is out of it, feels compassion for the creatures revolving in the circle of the mundane whirl and is the place where the six states of existence are located.[19] (2) The realm of existence encompassing desire, form, and formlessness; a place of suffering and attachment.[20] (3) The three realms of existence in Buddhism: the desire realm, the form realm, and the formless realm.[21] (4) The realms of existence in Buddhist cosmology that beings may traverse.[22]

From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra

(1) These realms are where a person falls if they do not believe in the fact that there is the Buddha-Nature.[23] (2) The realms of existence that beings are bound to experience, which are filled with suffering as a result of their defilements.[24] (3) Refers to the realms of Desire, Form, and Formlessness, which individuals traverse in cycles of birth and death, often experiencing suffering within them.[25]

From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines

(1) The realms of existence—desire, form, and formless—that one can transcend through the development of Wisdom.[26] (2) Refers to the realms of existence: desire, form, and formlessness, which the wise bodhisattva considers when giving.[27] (3) Refers to a conceptual framework that encompasses various dimensions of existence, transcended by the advanced spiritual beings known as bodhisattvas.[28]

From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra

(1) The text refers to the Buddha as the most Honoured One in the three realms, representing the different planes of existence where beings experience suffering and rebirth.[29] (2) The domains of existence in Buddhist cosmology: the realm of desire, the realm of form, and the realm beyond form.[30] (3) The realms of desire, form, and formlessness that Vimalakirti was detached from, indicating his spiritual liberation.[31]

From: Lankavatara Sutra

(1) The text states that the triple world originates from the discriminating of unrealities, but the Tathagatas do not originate from this.[32] (2) In the intermingling of causes and conditions, the ignorant imagine the birth of all things; but as they do not understand the truth, they go astray in this abode.[33] (3) A concept representing the entirety of cyclic existence, often referred to in Buddhist teachings as the realm of living beings.[34]

From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara

(1) The 'omnipresent suffering in the making' refers to the suffering omnipresent throughout all the three realms of samsara, even if not immediately experienced, which means we are constantly preparing causes for future suffering.[35] (2) The three realms of existence are the defilements or impediments of samsara, and the body of the Buddha is beyond them, as mentioned in the text.[36]

From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface

(1) The realms where the Fourth Fruit Arhats cut off all eighty-one grades of thought delusion, which includes all of existence.[37]

From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra

(1) The realms of existence comprising the Desire Realm, Form Realm, and Formless Realm, where beings experience birth and rebirth.[38]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) Where discursive thoughts of the three realms, These are called the obscuration of knowables.[39] (2) May all embodied beings abiding in these Have jewels in their hands as a sign of ultimate wealth.[40] (3) Within the cycle of rebirth, the impermanent aspects of existence are prevalent, representing the areas where change and suffering are ever-present, causing the extremest sufferings.[41] (4) The three realms of samsara refer to the cycles of existence characterized by suffering and confusion.[42] (5) Aspects of existence that involve grasping and fixation, positioned at the level of mind and mental contents.[43]

From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies

(1) The three realms are a concept, and the deities of the three realms are invoked to descend and hold the retreat for delivering the souls and guard the Tiandi Jinshan mingyang Shuilu bao’en daochang.[44] (2) These are mentioned in the text, with the hope that those in the three realms will become purified from causation and ascend to buddhahood.[45] (3) The three realms are transcended by the esoteric Dharanis, which are related to the three kinds of Siddhi, according to the text's description.[46]

From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)

(1) A term used to denote the various realms of existence that do not provide true happiness or fulfillment, leading to Buddha's statement about the void of help in the world.[47]

From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)

(1) A philosophical concept referring to different realms of existence or experience, as mentioned in relation to craving.[48]

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas

(1) A concept encompassing the realms of devas (gods), humans, and Brahmas, where merit cannot be easily calculated.[49] (2) The realms inhabited by devas, humans, and Brahmas, all of whom are worthy to pay homage to the Buddha.[50] (3) Refers to the realms of existence in Buddhist cosmology that include the forms of existence acknowledged by the Buddha.[51] (4) The sensual world, the world of form, and the formless world that symbolize cycles of suffering in Buddhist teachings.[52] (5) Refers to the broader existence encompassing different realms where sentient beings dwell, alluding to the Buddha's role as a friend and guide.[53]

From: Patipada (path of practice)

(1) The three realms of the Universe are where things of value are held in the highest regard and cherished, signifying the importance of these ideals across all existence.[54] (2) This refers to the different levels of existence, and the text states that even their powers cannot prevent Dhamma from yielding results.[55] (3) The three realms, also known as Ti–loka–dhatu, encompass all beings, including enemies, and are connected through metta and kindness.[56] (4) The conceptual realms where the teachings of the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha have spread, highlighting their significance in human society.[57] (5) A reference to the three realms of existence in Buddhist cosmology: the sense sphere, the form sphere, and the formless sphere.[58]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) A concept referring to the comprehensive fame possessed by phag mo gru pa, which extended throughout all realms of existence.[59] (2) Concepts in Tibetan Buddhism regarding the nature of existence and realms of experience, discussed by a chief named u rin rgyan 'bar.[60]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Hindu concept of 'Three worlds'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Three worlds" generally signifies the entire universe. It often refers to the heavens, earth, and underworld, encompassing all beings and realms. It can also represent the cosmic scope of divine power, actions, and the impact of events, including the spiritual hierarchy.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) This refers to the entirety of existence, invoking the gods to attest to Damayanti's truthfulness.[61] (2) A reference to the realms known in the context of the story, indicating the widespread recognition of the ear-rings’ virtues.[62] (3) Refers to the various realms Utanka traverses during his adventure to retrieve the ear-rings.[63] (4) Refers to the entirety of existence, encompassing heaven, earth, and the underworld, which the Deity claims to destroy in the end.[64] (5) An expression likely referring to the realm of Deities, Humans, and the Underworld, indicating the importance of principles in all existence.[65]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A concept referring to the three primary realms of existence, which were given to the Gods after defeating the Daityas.[66] (2) The realms that experienced fear due to the power of the Brahman-astra raised by Vishvamitra.[67] (3) Refers to the three realms of existence that are often depicted in mythological texts, emphasizing the grandeur of the characters involved.[68] (4) The realms of existence in ancient Indian cosmology, indicating the vast scope of Kumbhakarna's power and ambition.[69] (5) A term referencing the realms inhabited by gods, demons, and humans, implying the universal scope of the battle.[70]

From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4

(1) The triple world is represented by a blooming lotus, with Hari as the light amidst the darkness, highlighting Hari's role as the guiding force in the universe.[71] (2) She is the legal wife of the Brahmans, and fit for the propagation and supportance of his offspring, as also for bearing the burden of this house of the triple.[72] (3) He saw all things within himself, like in a dream or a mirror, and this appeared in his person like a newly printed city on a plate.[73] (4) This is its knowledge in our consciousness, without which we have no perception of it.[74] (5) This is the world of appearances, rising in the empty space of the supreme Intellect, highlighting the illusory nature of reality and the power of the divine mind.[75]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) Refers to the various realms of existence in Hindu cosmology, typically encompassing the physical, astral, and spiritual dimensions.[76] (2) The various realms of existence—typically encompassing the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions.[77] (3) A reference to the various realms of existence that are permeated by Narayana, highlighting his omnipresence.[78] (4) The triad of realms within Hindu cosmology that Krishna is said to subjugate and govern, emphasizing his power and divine authority.[79] (5) The realm comprising heaven, earth, and underworld, which Vajranabha wishes to govern.[80]

From: Gautami Mahatmya

(1) The realms over which lord Maheshvara is deemed the sole master, representing a higher spiritual authority.[81] (2) The demon was a terror unto all the three worlds.[82] (3) The realms of existence recognized in Hindu cosmology, where the holy centre Parushnisangama is well-known.[83] (4) The entirety of existence that Brahma refers to when contemplating the deceptive nature of love.[84] (5) The realms of existence in spiritual cosmology, encompassing heaven, Earth, and the nether regions.[85]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) A term referring to the broader recognition Vyasadeva will achieve through his expected son.[86] (2) Refers to the realms inhabited by all beings, including gods, humans, and demons in the cosmic structure.[87] (3) A reference to the realms governed by the ruler mentioned in the text, indicating a comprehensive authority over all existence.[88] (4) The realms of existence encompassing all beings and entities, influenced by divine and cosmic order.[89] (5) The concept of various realms of existence, including physical and spiritual dimensions.[90]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)

(1) The scope of Rama's glory and might, suggesting the extent of his influence and reputation, throughout the entire universe.[91] (2) A set of three components, encompassing a large sphere of existence, which are fundamental to life and the characters' experiences and actions.[92] (3) This is a reference to all the realms, suggesting the immense power of Rama and his ability to overcome any foe, and all the gods.[93] (4) A realm where someone is known for being just and true, suggesting a wide reputation, according to the text.[94] (5) This phrase refers to the three realms that are wild with care or spiritless in despair, indicating the widespread impact of the saint's actions.[95]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) A reference to the realms of existence governed by the deities, consisting of heaven, earth, and the netherworld.[96] (2) The realms of existence in Hindu cosmology: the earth, the atmosphere, and the heavens.[97] (3) A concept in Hindu cosmology referring to the realms of existence; the earthly realm, the heavens, and the netherworld.[98] (4) The realms affected by the goddess’s energy and presence during her battle against the Asuras.[99] (5) The realms contained within the egg of creation, encompassing various beings including gods and mankind.[100]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The cosmic realms affected by the destructive forces, leading to their transformation and degradation.[101] (2) The realms of existence recognized in Hindu cosmology, which were overtaken by the Daityas.[102] (3) The realms of existence in Hindu cosmology, including earth, sky, and heaven, underlining the interconnectedness of the cycles of life.[103] (4) Refers collectively to the heavens, earth, and underworld in Hindu cosmology which Dhruva aspired to transcend.[104] (5) The realms of existence that encompass the heavens, earth, and underworld, which are governed by different celestial beings.[105]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) Refers to the realms of existence managed and ruled by spiritual or divine entities.[106] (2) The different realms of existence that are protected by Vishnu.[107] (3) The realms of existence that are protected by the mantrams.[108] (4) The realms that encompass the entirety of existence, often referenced in spiritual contexts.[109] (5) Symbolizes the dimensions of existence in Hindu cosmology—heaven, earth, and the underworld—associated with Savita's feet.[110]

From: Anugita (English translation)

(1) The philosophical concept representing the realms of existence that can be controlled through self-concentration.[111] (2) Refers to the realms of existence that are created through the action of egoism.[112] (3) The three realms of existence perceived by those who practice penance, encompassing spiritual planes.[113]

From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha

(1) The realms of existence: Bhu (earth), Antariksha (intervening space), and Svarga (heaven).[114] (2) Representations of the material realms that are perceived but fundamentally consist of the light of Jnana.[115] (3) A common cosmological framework in Hinduism that includes realms associated with different deities, referenced to define the scope of Brahma's creations.[116]

From: Bhagavadgita

(1) The realms of existence that are influenced by the deity's presence, indicating its omnipresence.[117] (2) Refers to the various realms of existence including the physical, astral, and causal planes pervaded by the supreme self.[118]

From: Nilamata Purana

(1) Refers to the physical, spiritual, and heavenly realms, emphasizing the Ganga's purifying influence that can cleanse even the gravest sins.[119] (2) The realms created and sustained by the divine, including all movable and immovable objects.[120]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) A reference to the belief in different realms of existence, highlighting the speaker's perception of the listener's fortune.[121] (2) The realms of existence that are purified by the chanting of the gopis, signifying a holistic spiritual impact.[122] (3) Represents the various realms of existence in which living beings reside, encompassing all aspects of life.[123] (4) The higher, middle, and lower planetary systems that are purified by the Ganges.[124] (5) The physical, mental, and spiritual realms within which the Supreme Lord performs His pastimes.[125]

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) The realms of existence that are impacted by the presence or absence of divine entities, including their destruction.[126] (2) The realms over which Bhagavan Shri Upendra arranged for Gopa-kumara to propagate His devotional service.[127] (3) The three realms of existence in Hindu cosmology, encompassing Svarga (heaven), martya-loka (earth), and Patala (the lower planetary system).[128] (4) The realms of existence that Narada is destined to traverse due to the consequences of the curses imposed on him.[129] (5) A reference to the various realms of existence in which beings inhabit, often implying heaven, earth, and the underworld.[130]

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) A concept referring to the realms or dimensions of existence, encompassing physical, spiritual, and celestial regions.[131] (2) Refers to the three realms or dimensions of existence, often used in spiritual or philosophical contexts.[132] (3) A concept referring to the cosmic realms or dimensions that can be conquered or exist within spiritual beliefs.[133] (4) The realms or dimensions of existence that are referred to as encompassing all that is.[134] (5) Refers to all realms of existence where beings reside, indicating the comprehensive nature of the universe.[135]

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) Refers to the entirety of the universe which can be preserved by the will of Mayappiran.[136] (2) Refers to the realms of creation, often encompassing the physical, astral, and causal planes.[137] (3) The realms where exalted Devas like Brahma reside.[138] (4) Represents all realms of existence where denizens reside, encompassing various beings.[139] (5) Evokes the vastness of the universe, indicating the divine's omnipresence and power over creation.[140]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) A reference to the different realms of existence in Hindu cosmology, often signifying the physical world, the spiritual world, and the world of the ancestors.[141] (2) Represents the realms that Sunda and Upasunda sought to subdue through their ascetic practices and powers.[142] (3) The realms where Jimutavahana's glory is recognized and celebrated.[143] (4) The celestial realms mentioned by Padmavati in her prayer, emphasizing the urgency of her desires.[144] (5) Indicates the extensive reach and fame of the tale, affecting not just one realm but multiple realms.[145]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or ‘epic poetry’ and natya, or ‘dramatic poetry’.

Significance in Vedanta (school of philosophy):
Vedanta Books

From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)

(1) The realms or dimensions—bhuh, bhuvah, and svah—occupied by the Vasus and other gods, which may impact the performance of a sacrifice.[146] (2) Conceptual divisions in the Vedic tradition that represent different realms of existence that intervene between the earth and the sun.[147] (3) A concept representing the entirety of existence, encompassing the earth, mid-region, and heaven.[148]

From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)

(1) The conceptual framework in which prana is said to be equal, signifying its foundational role in the structure of the universe.[149] (2) The dimensions or realms that comprise existence, considered as the body of the highest Self in meditation.[150]

From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika

(1) The concept that encompasses the various realms of existence as understood in the context of the text.[151] (2) A reference to the different realms of existence within the universe, indicating that Brahman encompasses these forms.[152]

From: Kena upanishad (Madhva commentary)

(1) A concept referring to the realms governed by Indra, encompassing different dimensions or aspects of existence.[153]

From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)

(1) A phrase indicating the vast realms of existence (often interpreted as physical, mental, and spiritual domains) that the vital force can be equated with.[154]

From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

(1) The concept referring to the earth, sky, and heaven, which form the foundation of existence and are integral to the teachings on Gayatri.[155]

Vedanta refers to a school of orthodox Hindu philosophy (astika), drawing its subject-matter from the Upanishads. There are a number of sub-schools of Vedanta, however all of them expound on the basic teaching of the ultimate reality (brahman) and liberation (moksha) of the individual soul (atman).

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) The realms that are sustained by the Supreme Self, encompassing the entirety of existence.[156] (2) The entirety of existence as observed by the sages, which includes all beings, both moveable and immoveable.[157] (3) Refers to the entire universe or all realms of existence, indicating the vastness of the wealth that the Brahmana is said to own.[158] (4) The realms of existence that the Veda describes, from which offerings and subsistence are derived for divine beings and humanity.[159] (5) Refers to the realms of existence that can be affected by one's actions, indicating a high level of consequence for actions taken.[160]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance in Hinduism (general):

From: Satapatha-brahmana

(1) Symbolizes the realms that are significant in the ritual context used for containment and control of unwanted entities.[161] (2) The concept referred to when the wives walk around the horse thrice, implying a connection with the three realms of existence.[162] (3) The three worlds refer to the existential realms that are symbolized in the ritual through a square cup, where each corner represents a different aspect.[163] (4) Refers to the realms associated with the sacrificial rites, typically the mortal, heavenly, and ancestral worlds.[164] (5) The three worlds refer to the layered structure of the universe, which includes the heavens, earth, and underworld, represented and built up through the seasonal bricks.[165]

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)

(1) Refers to the physical, subtle, and causal dimensions of existence, over which the Supreme Purusha presides.[166] (2) The realms of existence that are protected by the gestures of the Stainless Lord, representing the universal protection offered.[167]

From: Paduka-panchaka (the five-fold footstool)

(1) A concept that may refer to the three dimensions or planes of existence through which spiritual entities may operate.[168]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Shaivism (Shaiva philosophy):
Shaivism Books

From: Tiruvacakam Part I

(1) The speaker refers to the deity as the only Lord of this, emphasizing divine sovereignty over all existence.[169]

Shaiva or Shaivism (shaivism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshiping Shiva as the supreme being. Closely related to Shaktism, Shaiva literature includes a range of scriptures, including Tantras, while the root of this tradition may be traced back to the ancient Vedas.

Significance in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):
Arthashastra Books

From: Hitopadesha (English translation)

(1) The realms of existence that the Daityas desire to gain dominion over, representing a powerful position in mythical cosmology.[170]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Charaka Samhita (English translation)

(1) The realms being considered when praising the accomplishments of Bharadvaja and the sages.[171]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology):
Jyotisha Books

From: Brihat Samhita

(1) A concept referring to the realms of existence mentioned in the Vedas, associated with the truth defined by Sarasvati.[172]

Jyotisha (ज्योतिष, jyotisha or jyotish) refers to ‘astronomy’ or “Vedic astrology” and represents the fifth of the six Vedangas (additional sciences to be studied along with the Vedas). Jyotisha concerns itself with the study and prediction of the movements of celestial bodies, in order to calculate the auspicious time for rituals and ceremonies.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)

(1) A concept referring to the realms of existence that the drama aims to represent moods and experiences for, as explained by Brahma.[173]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya—theatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).

Jain concept of 'Three worlds'

Jainism Books

"Three Worlds" in Jainism broadly refers to realms of existence. It can encompass the universe, including gods, demons, and humans, emphasizing suffering. It may also refer to the physical, spiritual, and intermediate dimensions, or the upper, middle, and lower realms, often influenced by the Jina's teachings and actions.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) A reference to the universal realms, suggesting Nemi's unparalleled strength across all realms.[174] (2) A reference to the realms of existence that individuals can become trapped in due to worldly attachments.[175] (3) The realms of existence encompassing all beings, including the physical world, the spiritual domain, and the underworld.[176] (4) A concept referring to the different realms or dimensions of existence, important in various religious traditions.[177] (5) The conceptual realms in which beings exist, commonly referring to the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions.[178]

From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)

(1) The upper, lower, and middle realms in which the process of spontaneous generation and birth can occur.[179]

From: Uttaradhyayana Sutra

(1) The realms of existence that encompass various states of being in which one can attain prominence and fame through righteous actions.[180]

From: Acaranga-sutra

(1) The realms illuminated by the teachings of the Jina that reject darkness.[181]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Three worlds in local and regional sources

History Books

"Three worlds" is a multifaceted concept, consistently representing the entirety of existence. It often symbolizes physical, mental, and spiritual realms, or variations like heaven, earth, and the underworld. It can refer to the vastness of the universe, spiritual planes, or the areas where divine figures or devotees are revered and sought.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) A reference to the realms of existence in Hindu cosmology; the text questions where such divine entities can be found in these realms.[182] (2) A conceptual space indicating the entirety of existence, where one cannot find the equal of the Bhagavadgita.[183] (3) Refers to the three realms of existence in Hindu cosmology, encompassing heaven, earth, and the underworld.[184] (4) Indicates the vast universe, often referring to the physical, astral, and causal realms in spiritual context.[185] (5) The entirety of existence, suggesting the boundlessness of Krishna which Savata acknowledges.[186]

From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda

(1) "Everything in the three worlds can be caught by Tapas." Tapas means literally "to burn" and is a kind of penance to "heat" the higher nature.[187] (2) This term is a reference to the idea of spreading the message to all beings and is a core aspect of the teachings and mission described within the text.[188] (3) The place where Shri Rama's renown was unparalleled, showing his importance.[189]

From: Triveni Journal

(1) There are three realms of existence: the known, the unknown, and the unknowable, with poetry serving as the divine voice of silence, bridging the gap between these different states.[190]

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)

(1) Referencing realms of existence that one aims to transcend.[191] (2) A concept in religious literature, representing the realms of existence and the presence of a divine figure.[192]

The concept of Three worlds in scientific sources

Science Books

Three Worlds, in the context of Dante's Inferno, signifies the afterlife realms Dante explores. Specifically, it refers to the journey introduced in Cantos I and III, marking the beginning of his descent.

Significance in Religious Studies:
Religion Books

From: Religions Journal (MDPI)

(1) The three realms are mentioned in relation to perceiving the entirety of phenomena in past, present, and future, within a single thought, according to Fazang's explanation.[193] (2) The afterlife that Dante journeys through, introducing the concept of the journey in Inferno Cantos I and III.[194]