Significance of World of Desires
The World of desire is a crucial concept in Buddhism, representing a realm of existence characterized by cravings, attachments, and sensory experiences. It includes beings driven by desire, leading to suffering and contributing to the cycle of samsara. Commonly referred to as kamadhatu, this realm consists of ordinary beings and gods, where actions are influenced by desires that impact one’s spiritual development and karma. Transcending the World of desire is essential for achieving liberation from suffering and attaining enlightenment.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'World of Desires'
In Buddhism, the World of Desire (kamadhatu) represents a realm characterized by attachment and craving, influencing actions and nurturing suffering. It encompasses various beings, including gods, where desires drive existence and impact spiritual development.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The desire realm (kamadhatu) is where beings experience physical bodies and related fears, contrasted with other realms.[1] (2) A category of existence characterized by attachment and desire, encompassing various forms of craving and unfulfilled longing.[2] (3) A realm that includes the experiences of both lust and hatred associated with outer visibles.[3] (4) Kamadhatvavacara refers to a type of samadhi that is associated with desires and sensory experiences.[4] (5) A specific realm in Buddhist cosmology that has its own count of auxiliaries for meditation.[5]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) The spiritual realm associated with attachment and craving that Vimalakirti remained aloof from.[6] (2) A state of existence focused on sensory experiences and attachments, which is to be transcended.[7]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The first of the three realms characterized by attachment and sensory experiences.[8]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary by Hsuan Hua)
(1) The level of existence characterized by attachment and desire, impacting spiritual development.[9]
From: Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra
(1) A realm driven by cravings and attachments, where a Bodhisattva maintains purity and is immune from defilements.[10]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A realm characterized by attachment and craving, often seen as a source of suffering within Buddhist philosophy.[11]
From: Lankavatara Sutra
(1) The realm characterized by attachments and cravings, associated with suffering and cyclical existence.[12]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) The realm of existence characterized by the presence of sentient beings who are primarily driven by desires and attachments.[13] (2) The realm filled with various attachments and cravings.[14] (3) A state of existence where beings experience desires and attachments that influence their consciousness, specifically when they go to sleep.[15] (4) A specific domain where beings are consumed by their desires, leading to measureless suffering and eventual death.[16] (5) A level of existence characterized by attachment and craving, affecting one's karma based on discursive thoughts and desires.[17]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A realm where various beings exist, characterized by attachments and desires.[18] (2) The realm associated with ordinary beings and tormented spirits characterized by base desires and attachments.[19] (3) A spiritual classification representing the domain of sensory experiences and emotional attachments.[20]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A realm characterized by attachment and desire, often discussed in Buddhist cosmology.[21]
Hindu concept of 'World of Desires'
In Hinduism, the World of Desire represents a figurative realm shaped by aspirations and cravings, highlighting the pursuit of pleasures and material satisfaction, deemed inferior to the higher pursuit of true happiness and spiritual fulfillment.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A figurative space dominated by one's aspirations and cravings, affecting their level of awareness.[22]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The realm or state associated with seeking pleasures and material satisfaction, which is considered inferior to the acquisition of extreme happiness.[23]