Difference between revisions of "Lokas – Locations in Universe as explained by Vedas"
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− | ====[[Hari]] Om Tat Sat – [[Hari]] is the [[Absolute Truth]], Past Present and Future==== | + | ====[[Hari]] [[Om]] Tat Sat – [[Hari]] is the [[Absolute Truth]], Past Present and Future==== |
− | Before you read anything below, you have to know that [[Vedas]] have been written by globally reknowed [[scholars]] over millions of years. [[Sanskrit]] is beleived to have come from [[Demi Gods]] and Munis or saints.Vedas have been written and [[acknowledged]] [[world]] wide. You will find [[Vedas]] as Ventas and Sholkas as Slovacs in all over Europe.Sanskrit is the most difficult [[language]] on [[earth]] and beyond. To learn it many aspirants came to [[India]] and many [[scholars]] travelled worldwide for thousands of years. On the fact we have traces [[sanskrit]] in european, {{Wiki|german}}, armani and {{Wiki|arabic}} [[languages]]. | + | Before you read anything below, you have to know that [[Vedas]] have been written by globally reknowed [[scholars]] over millions of years. [[Sanskrit]] is beleived to have come from [[Demi Gods]] and [[Munis]] or saints.Vedas have been written and [[acknowledged]] [[world]] wide. |
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+ | You will find [[Vedas]] as Ventas and Sholkas as Slovacs in all over {{Wiki|Europe}}. [[Sanskrit]] is the most difficult [[language]] on [[earth]] and beyond. | ||
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+ | To learn it many aspirants came to [[India]] and many [[scholars]] travelled worldwide for thousands of years. On the fact we have traces [[sanskrit]] in european, {{Wiki|german}}, armani and {{Wiki|arabic}} [[languages]]. | ||
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+ | The [[Vedas]] are beleived to have come straight from the {{Wiki|mouth}} of [[Brahma]] -the secondary creator of [[universe]], a [[demi god]]. [[Brahma]] had been appointed by [[Mahavishnu]] or GOD to create {{Wiki|materialistic}} [[world]]. | ||
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+ | These [[Vedas]] were then absorbed by [[Sapta Rishis]] who spread the [[knowledge]] of GOD in this whole [[world]]. | ||
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+ | The [[sapta rishis]] are still a {{Wiki|evidence}} of prior [[existence]] according to {{Wiki|Astronomy}} as [[seven stars]] in the {{Wiki|galaxy}}. I plead the reader to read this article with full [[consciousness]] and leave aside the [[ego]] of extremity and [[ignorance]]. | ||
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+ | ==[[Devi-Dhama]]== | ||
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[[File:Visnudurga.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Visnudurga.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
This material [[world]] is the [[realm]] of {{Wiki|Durga}} who is the material [[energy]] in her personal [[form]]. | This material [[world]] is the [[realm]] of {{Wiki|Durga}} who is the material [[energy]] in her personal [[form]]. | ||
− | “The [[goddess]] {{Wiki|Durga}} was decorated with [[flower garlands]], smeared with [[sandalwood]] pulp and dressed with {{Wiki|excellent}} garments and ornaments made of valuable [[jewels]]. Holding in her hands a [[bow]], a [[trident]], arrows, a shield, a sword, a conchshell, a disc and a club, and being praised by [[celestial beings]] like [[Apsaras]], [[Kinnaras]], Uragas, [[Siddhas]], Caranas and [[Gandharvas]], who worshiped her with all kinds of presentations, she spoke as follows.” (SB 10.4.10-11) | + | “The [[goddess]] {{Wiki|Durga}} was decorated with [[flower garlands]], smeared with [[sandalwood]] pulp and dressed with {{Wiki|excellent}} garments and ornaments made of valuable [[jewels]]. |
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+ | Holding in her hands a [[bow]], a [[trident]], arrows, a shield, a sword, a [[conchshell]], a disc and a club, and being praised by [[celestial beings]] like [[Apsaras]], [[Kinnaras]], [[Uragas]], [[Siddhas]], [[Caranas]] and [[Gandharvas]], who worshiped her with all kinds of presentations, she spoke as follows.” (SB 10.4.10-11) | ||
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+ | I, [[jiva]], am now just a [[transcendental]] sparkle of an [[atomic]] size and according to my [[desire]] and [[karma]] I take [[birth]] in various material [[bodies]] one after another (the [[cycle of birth and death]], | ||
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+ | or [[samsara]]) within this [[world]] characterized by all-pervading presence of [[birth]], [[death]], [[old age]] and {{Wiki|disease}} ([[janma-mrtyu-jara-vyadhi]]). | ||
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+ | These are symptoms of my [[conditioned]] [[life]] based on my identification with {{Wiki|matter}}. During my whole stay here I am accompanied by the [[Lord]] in His {{Wiki|invisible}} [[form]] of [[Paramatma]] ([[Supersoul]]) in my [[heart]]. He lets me act according to my [[desires]] and witnesses and approves my [[actions]]. | ||
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'''[[Paramatma]]''' – “I am seated in everyone’s [[heart]], and from Me come [[remembrance]], [[knowledge]] and [[forgetfulness]]. By all the [[Vedas]], I am to be known. Indeed, I am the compiler of [[Vedanta]], and I am the knower of the [[Vedas]].” (BG 15.15) | '''[[Paramatma]]''' – “I am seated in everyone’s [[heart]], and from Me come [[remembrance]], [[knowledge]] and [[forgetfulness]]. By all the [[Vedas]], I am to be known. Indeed, I am the compiler of [[Vedanta]], and I am the knower of the [[Vedas]].” (BG 15.15) | ||
[[File:Haridhama.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Haridhama.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | “Sri [[Krsna]], the [[Personality]] | + | “Sri [[Krsna]], the [[Personality of Godhead]], who is the [[Paramatma]] ([[Supersoul]]) in everyone’s [[heart]] and the benefactor of the truthful {{Wiki|devotee}}, cleanses [[desire]] for material [[enjoyment]] from the [[heart]] of the {{Wiki|devotee}} who has developed the [[urge]] to hear His messages, which are in themselves [[virtuous]] when properly heard and chanted.” (SB 1.2.17) |
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“One who worships the [[Deity]] of Godhead in the [[temples]] but does not know that the [[Supreme Lord]], as [[Paramatma]], is situated in every living entity’s [[heart]], must be in [[ignorance]] and is compared to one who offers oblations into ashes.” (SB 3.29.22) | “One who worships the [[Deity]] of Godhead in the [[temples]] but does not know that the [[Supreme Lord]], as [[Paramatma]], is situated in every living entity’s [[heart]], must be in [[ignorance]] and is compared to one who offers oblations into ashes.” (SB 3.29.22) | ||
[[File:Map1.gif|frameless|centre|450px|Map 1]] | [[File:Map1.gif|frameless|centre|450px|Map 1]] | ||
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All the [[universes]] are clustered together up and down, and each and every one of them is separately sevenfold-covered. The watery portion is beyond the sevenfold coverings, and each covering is ten times more expansive than the previous covering. | All the [[universes]] are clustered together up and down, and each and every one of them is separately sevenfold-covered. The watery portion is beyond the sevenfold coverings, and each covering is ten times more expansive than the previous covering. | ||
− | The extent of the [[cosmic]] [[phenomenon]] is calculated to be diametrically (both ways) four billion {{Wiki|miles}}. Then the coverings of the [[universe]] begin. The first stratum of the covering ([[earth]]) is calculated to extend eighty million {{Wiki|miles}}, and the subsequent coverings of the [[universe]] are respectively of [[fire]], effulgence, [[air]] and {{Wiki|ether}}, one after another, each extending ten times further than the previous. (SB 2.2.28 p.)1 yojan = 8 {{Wiki|miles}} = 12,8 | + | The extent of the [[cosmic]] [[phenomenon]] is calculated to be diametrically (both ways) four billion {{Wiki|miles}}. |
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+ | Then the coverings of the [[universe]] begin. | ||
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+ | The first stratum of the covering ([[earth]]) is calculated to extend eighty million {{Wiki|miles}}, and the subsequent coverings of the [[universe]] are respectively of [[fire]], effulgence, [[air]] and {{Wiki|ether}}, one after another, each extending ten times further than the previous. (SB 2.2.28 p.)1 yojan = 8 {{Wiki|miles}} = 12,8 km [[Dhruvaloka]], the {{Wiki|polestar}}, is 3,800,000 [[yojanas]] above the {{Wiki|sun}}. | ||
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+ | Above [[Dhruvaloka]] by 10,000,000 [[yojanas]] is [[Maharloka]], above [[Maharloka]] by 20,000,000 [[yojanas]] is [[Janaloka]], above [[Janaloka]] by 80,000,000 [[yojanas]] is [[Tapoloka]], and above [[Tapoloka]] by 120,000,000 [[yojanas]] is [[Satyaloka]]. | ||
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+ | Thus the distance from the {{Wiki|sun}} to [[Satyaloka]] is 233,800,000 [[yojanas]], or 1,870,400,000 {{Wiki|miles}}. | ||
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+ | The [[Vaikuntha]] {{Wiki|planets}} begin 26,200,000 [[yojanas]] (209,600,000 {{Wiki|miles}}) above [[Satyaloka]]. Thus the {{Wiki|Visnu}} {{Wiki|Purana}} describes that the covering of the [[universe]] is 260,000,000 [[yojanas]] (2,080,000,000 {{Wiki|miles}}) away from the {{Wiki|sun}}. (SB 5.23.9 p.) | ||
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==[[Satyaloka]]== | ==[[Satyaloka]]== | ||
− | My first [[body]] is that of [[Brahma]], the secondary creator of this [[world]]. I live on [[Satyaloka]], the topmost dimensional level in this [[world]]. If I am a [[pure]] {{Wiki|devotee}} of the [[Lord]], at the end of my long [[life]] I will return to Hari-dhama together with my associates, great [[sages]]. Otherwise I will be born as a great [[Wikipedia:Sage (sophos|sage]] on Muniloka. | + | |
+ | My first [[body]] is that of [[Brahma]], the secondary creator of this [[world]]. I live on [[Satyaloka]], the topmost dimensional level in this [[world]]. If I am a [[pure]] {{Wiki|devotee}} of the [[Lord]], at the end of my long [[life]] I will return to [[Hari-dhama]] together with my associates, great [[sages]]. Otherwise I will be born as a great [[Wikipedia:Sage (sophos|sage]] on [[Muniloka]]. | ||
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“Both the [[Lord]] and the living [[entity]], being qualitatively [[spirit]] [[soul]], have the tendency for [[peaceful]] [[enjoyment]], but when the part of the Supreme [[Personality]] of Godhead unfortunately wants to enjoy {{Wiki|independently}}, without [[Krsna]], he is put into the material [[world]], where he begins his [[life]] as [[Brahma]] and is gradually degraded to the {{Wiki|status}} of an ant or a worm in stool.” (SB 9.24.58 p.) | “Both the [[Lord]] and the living [[entity]], being qualitatively [[spirit]] [[soul]], have the tendency for [[peaceful]] [[enjoyment]], but when the part of the Supreme [[Personality]] of Godhead unfortunately wants to enjoy {{Wiki|independently}}, without [[Krsna]], he is put into the material [[world]], where he begins his [[life]] as [[Brahma]] and is gradually degraded to the {{Wiki|status}} of an ant or a worm in stool.” (SB 9.24.58 p.) | ||
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− | ==Muniloka== | + | “The [[yogis]] who become [[detached]] from the material [[world]] by practice of [[breathing]] exercises and control of the [[mind]] reach the {{Wiki|planet}} of [[Brahma]], which is far, far away. |
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+ | After giving up their [[bodies]], they enter into the [[body]] of [[Lord Brahma]], and therefore when [[Brahma]] is {{Wiki|liberated}} and goes to the Supreme [[Personality]] of Godhead, who is the Supreme [[Brahman]], such [[yogis]] can also enter into the {{Wiki|kingdom}} of [[God]].” (SB 3.32.10) | ||
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+ | ==[[Muniloka]]== | ||
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[[File:Muniloka.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Muniloka.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | Muniloka is the general [[name]] of the [[abodes]] of great [[sages]]: [[Tapoloka]], [[Janaloka]], [[Maharloka]]. These [[sages]] constantly [[meditate]] on the [[Lord]]. Here I’m one of the [[sages]] and by my [[meditation]] I can go either higher, up to [[Satyaloka]], to become [[Brahma’s]] associate, or down, to the level of [[devas]] ([[demigods]]). | + | [[Muniloka]] is the general [[name]] of the [[abodes]] of great [[sages]]: [[Tapoloka]], [[Janaloka]], [[Maharloka]]. |
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+ | These [[sages]] constantly [[meditate]] on the [[Lord]]. Here I’m one of the [[sages]] and by my [[meditation]] I can go either higher, up to [[Satyaloka]], to become [[Brahma’s]] associate, or down, to the level of [[devas]] ([[demigods]]). | ||
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− | “By [[mystic]] [[yoga]], great austerities and the renounced order of [[life]], the [[pure]] destinations of [[Maharloka]], Janoloka, [[Tapoloka]] and [[Satyaloka]] are [[attained]]. But by devotional [[yoga]], one achieves My [[transcendental]] abode.” (SB 11.24.14) | + | “By [[mystic]] [[yoga]], great austerities and the renounced order of [[life]], the [[pure]] destinations of [[Maharloka]], [[Janoloka]], [[Tapoloka]] and [[Satyaloka]] are [[attained]]. But by devotional [[yoga]], one achieves My [[transcendental]] abode.” (SB 11.24.14) |
[[File:Map2.png|frameless|centre|450px|Map 2]] | [[File:Map2.png|frameless|centre|450px|Map 2]] | ||
− | The [[moon]] is situated 100,000 [[yojanas]] above the rays of the sunshine. Day and night on the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}} and Pitrloka are calculated according to its waning and waxing. Above the [[moon]] by a distance of 200,000 [[yojanas]] are some {{Wiki|stars}}, and above these {{Wiki|stars}} is Sukra-graha ({{Wiki|Venus}}), whose influence is always [[auspicious]] for the inhabitants of the entire [[universe]]. Above Sukra-graha by 200,000 [[yojanas]] is Budha-graha ({{Wiki|Mercury}}), whose influence is sometimes [[auspicious]] and sometimes {{Wiki|inauspicious}}. Next, above Budha-graha by 200,000 [[yojanas]], is Angaraka ({{Wiki|Mars}}), which almost always has an unfavorable influence. Above Angaraka by another 200,000 [[yojanas]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} called Brhaspati-graha ({{Wiki|Jupiter}}), which is always very favorable for qualified [[brahmanas]]. Above Brhaspati-graha is the {{Wiki|planet}} Sanaiscara ({{Wiki|Saturn}}), which is very {{Wiki|inauspicious}}, and above {{Wiki|Saturn}} is a group of [[seven stars]] occupied by great saintly persons who are always [[thinking]] of the {{Wiki|welfare}} of the entire [[universe]]. These [[seven stars]] circumambulate Dhruvaloka, which is the residence of [[Lord]] {{Wiki|Visnu}} within this [[universe]]. (SB 5.22) [[Moon]] distance | + | The [[moon]] is situated 100,000 [[yojanas]] above the rays of the sunshine. |
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+ | Day and night on the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}} and [[Pitrloka]] are calculated according to its waning and waxing. | ||
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+ | Above the [[moon]] by a distance of 200,000 [[yojanas]] are some {{Wiki|stars}}, and above these {{Wiki|stars}} is [[Sukra-graha]] ({{Wiki|Venus}}), whose influence is always [[auspicious]] for the inhabitants of the entire [[universe]]. | ||
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+ | Above [[Sukra-graha]] by 200,000 [[yojanas]] is [[Budha-graha]] ({{Wiki|Mercury}}), whose influence is sometimes [[auspicious]] and sometimes {{Wiki|inauspicious}}. | ||
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+ | Next, above [[Budha-graha]] by 200,000 [[yojanas]], is [[Angaraka]] ({{Wiki|Mars}}), which almost always has an unfavorable influence. | ||
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+ | Above [[Angaraka]] by another 200,000 [[yojanas]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} called [[Brhaspati-graha]] ({{Wiki|Jupiter}}), which is always very favorable for qualified [[brahmanas]]. | ||
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+ | Above [[Brhaspati-graha]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Sanaiscara]] ({{Wiki|Saturn}}), which is very {{Wiki|inauspicious}}, and above {{Wiki|Saturn}} is a group of [[seven stars]] occupied by great saintly persons who are always [[thinking]] of the {{Wiki|welfare}} of the entire [[universe]]. | ||
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+ | These [[seven stars]] circumambulate [[Dhruvaloka]], which is the residence of [[Lord]] {{Wiki|Visnu}} within this [[universe]]. (SB 5.22) [[Moon]] distance | ||
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==[[Svargaloka]]== | ==[[Svargaloka]]== | ||
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[[File:Svarg.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Svarg.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | [[Svargaloka]] is the abode of [[demigods]]. I’m now [[Indra]] (the chief [[demigod]]) or one of the other [[demigods]] in a [[cosmic]] {{Wiki|hierarchy}} (agnir vai devAnAm avamo viSNuH paramas, tadantareNa sarvA anyA devatA – “[[Agni]] is the lowest and [[Vishnu]] is the [[highest]] among [[devas]]. All other [[gods]] occupy positions that are in between.” [[Aitareya]] [[Brahmana]] 1.1.1) and my [[duty]] is to manage the affairs of the [[universe]], protecting its inhabitants against the [[asuras]] ({{Wiki|demons}}) as an [[empowered]] servant of the [[Lord]]. If I become advanced in my devotional service, I will be born as a [[Wikipedia:Sage (sophos|sage]] in Muniloka. If I become [[attached]] to material [[enjoyment]], I will degrade into a lower position becoming a semi-demigod or a [[human being]]. | + | [[Svargaloka]] is the abode of [[demigods]]. I’m now [[Indra]] (the chief [[demigod]]) or one of the other [[demigods]] in a [[cosmic]] {{Wiki|hierarchy}} (agnir vai devAnAm avamo viSNuH paramas, tadantareNa sarvA anyA devatA – “[[Agni]] is the lowest and [[Vishnu]] is the [[highest]] among [[devas]]. |
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+ | All other [[gods]] occupy positions that are in between.” [[Aitareya]] [[Brahmana]] 1.1.1) and my [[duty]] is to manage the affairs of the [[universe]], protecting its inhabitants against the [[asuras]] ({{Wiki|demons}}) as an [[empowered]] servant of the [[Lord]]. | ||
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+ | If I become advanced in my devotional service, I will be born as a [[Wikipedia:Sage (sophos|sage]] in [[Muniloka]]. If I become [[attached]] to material [[enjoyment]], I will degrade into a lower position becoming a semi-demigod or a [[human being]]. | ||
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“Men of small [[knowledge]] are very much [[attached]] to the flowery words of the [[Vedas]], which recommend various fruitive [[activities]] for elevation to [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}, resultant good [[birth]], power, and so forth. Being desirous of [[sense]] gratification and opulent [[life]], they say that there is nothing more than this.” (BG 2.42-43) | “Men of small [[knowledge]] are very much [[attached]] to the flowery words of the [[Vedas]], which recommend various fruitive [[activities]] for elevation to [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}, resultant good [[birth]], power, and so forth. Being desirous of [[sense]] gratification and opulent [[life]], they say that there is nothing more than this.” (BG 2.42-43) | ||
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Neither the [[demigods]] controlling [[fire]], the {{Wiki|sun}}, the [[moon]] and the {{Wiki|stars}} nor those in charge of [[earth]], [[water]], {{Wiki|ether}}, [[air]], {{Wiki|speech}} and [[mind]] actually remove the [[sins]] of their worshipers, who continue to see in terms of dualities. But [[wise]] [[sages]] destroy one’s [[sins]] when respectfully served for even a few moments. (SB 10.84.12) | Neither the [[demigods]] controlling [[fire]], the {{Wiki|sun}}, the [[moon]] and the {{Wiki|stars}} nor those in charge of [[earth]], [[water]], {{Wiki|ether}}, [[air]], {{Wiki|speech}} and [[mind]] actually remove the [[sins]] of their worshipers, who continue to see in terms of dualities. But [[wise]] [[sages]] destroy one’s [[sins]] when respectfully served for even a few moments. (SB 10.84.12) | ||
− | [[Indra]]: “We are now living in the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}, undoubtedly as a result of our having performed [[ritualistic]] {{Wiki|ceremonies}}, pious [[activities]] and yajnas and having studied the [[Vedas]]. However, our [[lives]] here will one day be finished. We pray that at that [[time]], if any [[merit]] remains from our pious [[activities]], we may again take [[birth]] in Bharata-varsa as [[human beings]] able to remember the [[lotus]] feet of the [[Lord]]. The [[Lord]] is so kind that He personally comes to the land of Bharata-varsa and expands the good [[fortune]] of its [[people]].” (SB 5.19.28) | + | |
+ | [[Indra]]: “We are now living in the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}, undoubtedly as a result of our having performed [[ritualistic]] {{Wiki|ceremonies}}, pious [[activities]] and [[yajnas]] and having studied the [[Vedas]]. | ||
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+ | However, our [[lives]] here will one day be finished. We pray that at that [[time]], if any [[merit]] remains from our pious [[activities]], we may again take [[birth]] in [[Bharata-varsa]] as [[human beings]] able to remember the [[lotus]] feet of the [[Lord]]. | ||
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+ | The [[Lord]] is so kind that He personally comes to the land of [[Bharata-varsa]] and expands the good [[fortune]] of its [[people]].” (SB 5.19.28) | ||
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==[[Bhuvarloka]]== | ==[[Bhuvarloka]]== | ||
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− | '''Semi-demigods''' - “Below [[Rahu]] by 10,000 [[yojanas]] [80,000 {{Wiki|miles}}] are the {{Wiki|planets}} known as [[Siddhaloka]], Caranaloka and Vidyadhara-loka.” (SB 5.24.4) | + | [[Bhuvarloka]] – the level of semi-demigods ([[Carana]], [[Vidyadhara]], [[Kinnara]], [[Kimpurusa]] etc.). |
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+ | As one of the lesser [[demigods]] I am assisting the [[demigods]] in various ways and sometimes interacting with the [[humans]]. | ||
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+ | By advancement in my service I can become a [[demigod]] or to subdue to the enjoying [[nature]] and be born as a [[human]] on the [[earthly]] level, [[Bhurloka]]. | ||
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+ | '''[[Semi-demigods]]''' - “Below [[Rahu]] by 10,000 [[yojanas]] [80,000 {{Wiki|miles}}] are the {{Wiki|planets}} known as [[Siddhaloka]], [[Caranaloka]] and [[Vidyadhara-loka]].” (SB 5.24.4) | ||
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+ | “While He was passing in the northern [[direction]], all the [[celestial]] denizens known as [[Caranas]] and [[Gandharvas]], as well as the munis and the damsels of the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}, prayed and [[offered]] Him all respects. The ocean [[offered]] Him oblations and a place of residence.” (SB 3.33.34) | ||
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[[File:Map3.png|frameless|centre|450px|Map 3]] | [[File:Map3.png|frameless|centre|450px|Map 3]] | ||
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− | Approximately 240,000 {{Wiki|miles}} beneath the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Patala]] [[lives]] [[Lord]] [[Ananta]]. This great [[universe]], situated on one of [[Lord]] Anantadeva’s thousands of hoods, appears just like a {{Wiki|white mustard}} seed. It is infinitesimal compared to the hood of [[Lord]] [[Ananta]]. (SB 5.25.1-2) | + | [[Rahu]] is situated 10,000 [[yojanas]] below the {{Wiki|sun}}. Below [[Rahu]] by another 10,000 [[yojanas]] are the {{Wiki|planets}} of the [[Siddhas]], [[Caranas]] and [[Vidyadharas]], and below these are {{Wiki|planets}} such as [[Yaksaloka]] and [[Raksaloka]]. |
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+ | Below these {{Wiki|planets}} is the [[earth]], and 70,000 [[yojanas]] below the [[earth]] are the lower {{Wiki|planetary}} systems [[Bila-svarga]]: [[Atala]], [[Vitala]], [[Sutala]], [[Talatala]], [[Mahatala]], [[Rasatala]] and [[Patala]]. | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|Demons}} and [[Raksasas]] live in these lower {{Wiki|planetary}} systems with their wives and children, always engaged in [[sense]] gratification and not fearing their next [[births]]. | ||
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+ | The sunshine does not reach these {{Wiki|planets}}, but they are [[illuminated]] by [[jewels]] fixed upon the hoods of {{Wiki|snakes}}. Because of these shining [[gems]] there is practically no {{Wiki|darkness}}. | ||
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+ | Those living in these {{Wiki|planets}} do not become old or diseased, and they are not afraid of [[death]] from any [[cause]] but the [[time]] factor, the [[Supreme Personality of Godhead]]. | ||
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+ | In the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Atala]], the [[yawning]] of a {{Wiki|demon}} has produced three kinds of women, called [[svairini]] ({{Wiki|independent}}), [[kamini]] (lusty) and [[pumscali]] (very easily subdued by men). | ||
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+ | Below [[Atala]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Vitala]], wherein [[Lord]] {{Wiki|Siva}} and his wife [[Gauri]] reside. Because of their presence, a kind of {{Wiki|gold}} is produced called [[hataka]]. | ||
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+ | Below [[Vitala]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Sutala]], the abode of [[Bali]] [[Maharaja]], the most [[fortunate]] [[king]]. [[Bali]] [[Maharaja]] was favored by the Supreme [[personality]] of Godhead, [[Vamanadeva]], because of his intense devotional service. | ||
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+ | Below [[Sutala]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Talatala]], the abode of the {{Wiki|demon}} [[Maya]]. | ||
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+ | This {{Wiki|demon}} is always materially [[happy]] because he is favored by [[Lord]] {{Wiki|Siva}}, but he cannot achieve [[spiritual]] [[happiness]] at any [[time]]. | ||
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+ | Below [[Talatala]] is the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Mahatala]], where there are many {{Wiki|snakes}} with hundreds and thousands of hoods. | ||
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+ | Below [[Mahatala]] is [[Rasatala]], and below that is [[Patala]] ([[Nagaloka]]), where the [[serpent]] [[Vasuki]] [[lives]] with his associates. (SB 5.24)The hellish {{Wiki|planets}} are situated in the [[intermediate]] [[space]] between the [[three worlds]] and the [[Garbhodaka]] Ocean. | ||
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+ | They lie on the southern side of the [[universe]], beneath [[Bhu-mandala]], and slightly above the [[water]] of the [[Garbhodaka]] Ocean. | ||
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+ | [[Pitrloka]] is also located in this region between the [[Garbhodaka]] Ocean and the lower {{Wiki|planetary}} systems. All the residents of [[Pitrloka]], headed by [[Agnisvatta]], [[meditate]] in great [[samadhi]] on the Supreme [[Personality]] of Godhead and always wish their families well. (SB 5.26.5) | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | Approximately 240,000 {{Wiki|miles}} beneath the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Patala]] [[lives]] [[Lord]] [[Ananta]]. This great [[universe]], situated on one of [[Lord]] [[Anantadeva’s]] thousands of hoods, appears just like a {{Wiki|white mustard}} seed. It is infinitesimal compared to the hood of [[Lord]] [[Ananta]]. (SB 5.25.1-2) | ||
+ | |||
+ | The distance from the {{Wiki|sun}} to the [[earth]] is lower {{Wiki|planetary}} systems called [[Atala]], [[Vitala]], [[Sutala]], [[Talatala]], [[Mahatala]], [[Rasatala]] and [[Patala]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Below these lower {{Wiki|planets}} by 30,000 [[yojanas]], [[Sesa Naga]] is {{Wiki|lying}} on the [[Garbhodaka Ocean]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | That ocean is 249,800,000 [[yojanas]] deep. Thus the total {{Wiki|diameter}} of the [[universe]] is approximately 500,000,000 [[yojanas]], or 4,000,000,000 {{Wiki|miles}}. (SB 5.23.9 p.) | ||
− | |||
− | ==Antariksa== | + | ==[[Antariksa]]== |
[[File:Antarikhsa.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | [[File:Antarikhsa.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | ||
− | Between [[Bhuvarloka]] and Bhurloka is antariksa, an interplanetary [[space]] where the {{Wiki|Sun}} is situated. Here live [[beings]] like [[Raksasas]], [[Yaksas]], [[Pisacas]] and [[ghosts]]. They often descend on [[earth]] and are generally inimical to [[humans]]. Usuallly they will be born later as [[humans]]. | + | |
+ | |||
+ | Between [[Bhuvarloka]] and [[Bhurloka]] is [[antariksa]], an interplanetary [[space]] where the {{Wiki|Sun}} is situated. Here live [[beings]] like [[Raksasas]], [[Yaksas]], [[Pisacas]] and [[ghosts]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | They often descend on [[earth]] and are generally inimical to [[humans]]. Usuallly they will be born later as [[humans]]. | ||
+ | |||
[[Aliens]] explained in [[Vedas]]: | [[Aliens]] explained in [[Vedas]]: | ||
+ | |||
[[Ghosts]] – “Living entities who are associates of [[Rudra]] develop in the third mode of material [[nature]], or [[ignorance]]. They are situated in the sky between the [[earthly]] {{Wiki|planets}} and the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}.” (SB 3.6.29) | [[Ghosts]] – “Living entities who are associates of [[Rudra]] develop in the third mode of material [[nature]], or [[ignorance]]. They are situated in the sky between the [[earthly]] {{Wiki|planets}} and the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}.” (SB 3.6.29) | ||
− | “Beneath Vidyadhara-loka, Caranaloka and [[Siddhaloka]], in the sky called antariksa, are the places of [[enjoyment]] for the [[Yaksas]], [[Raksasas]], [[Pisacas]], [[ghosts]] and so on. Antariksa extends as far as the [[wind]] blows and the clouds float in the sky. Above this there is no more [[air]].” (SB 5.24.5) | + | “Beneath [[Vidyadhara-loka]], [[Caranaloka]] and [[Siddhaloka]], in the sky called [[antariksa]], are the places of [[enjoyment]] for the [[Yaksas]], [[Raksasas]], [[Pisacas]], [[ghosts]] and so on. |
+ | |||
+ | [[Antariksa]] extends as far as the [[wind]] blows and the clouds float in the sky. Above this there is no more [[air]].” (SB 5.24.5) | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ==[[Bhurloka]]== | ||
+ | |||
− | |||
[[File:Earth223.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Earth223.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | Bhurloka, or Bhu-mandala is the [[earthly]] level consisting of seven spheres (dvipas) – [[Jambudvipa]], [[Plaksadvipa]], [[Salmalidvipa]], Kusadvipa, Krauncadvipa, Sakadvipa, Puskaradvipa – which are inhabited by various [[human beings]]. | + | [[Bhurloka]], or [[Bhu-mandala]] is the [[earthly]] level consisting of seven [[spheres]] ([[dvipas]]) – [[Jambudvipa]], [[Plaksadvipa]], [[Salmalidvipa]], [[Kusadvipa]], [[Krauncadvipa]], [[Sakadvipa]], [[Puskaradvipa]] – which are inhabited by various [[human beings]]. |
− | |||
− | + | “The {{Wiki|planetary}} system known as [[Bhu-mandala]] resembles a [[lotus flower]], and its seven islands resemble the whorl of that [[flower]]. The length and breadth of the [[island]] known as [[Jambudvipa]], which is situated in the middle of the whorl, are one million [[yojanas]] [eight million {{Wiki|miles}}]. | |
− | |||
− | ==Bila-Svarga== | + | |
+ | [[Jambudvipa]] is round like the leaf of a [[lotus flower]].” (SB 5.16.5) | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | he {{Wiki|planet}} [[Earth]] where I live now as a [[human being]] is situated within [[Jambudvipa]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | It is known as [[karma-bhumi]] ({{Wiki|Visnu}} {{Wiki|Purana}} 2.3.2), the place where new [[karma]] is created, a kind of [[cosmic]] crossroad. Here I will decide about my {{Wiki|future}} situation, higher or lower, by acting in a particular way (not that “all [[paths]] are the same” – [[yatha mata tatha pata]]). | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | “[[King]] [[Rahugana]] said: This [[birth]] as a [[human being]] is the best of all. Even [[birth]] among the [[demigods]] in the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}} is not as glorious as [[birth]] as a [[human being]] on this [[earth]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | What is the use of the [[exalted]] position of a [[demigod]]? In the [[heavenly]] {{Wiki|planets}}, due to profuse material comforts, there is no possibility of associating with {{Wiki|devotees}}.” (SB 5.13.21) | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==[[Bila-Svarga]]== | ||
[[File:Bila-svarg.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Bila-svarg.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | |||
− | '''Bila-svarga''' – “In these seven {{Wiki|planetary}} systems, which are also known as the subterranean [[heavens]] [bila-svarga], there are very beautiful houses, [[gardens]] and places of [[sense]] [[enjoyment]], which are even more opulent than those in the higher {{Wiki|planets}} because the {{Wiki|demons}} have a very high standard of [[sensual pleasure]], [[wealth]] and influence. Most of the residents of these {{Wiki|planets}}, who are known as [[Daityas]], [[Danavas]] and [[Nagas]], live as householders. Their wives, children, friends and {{Wiki|society}} are all fully engaged in [[illusory]], material [[happiness]]. The [[sense]] [[enjoyment]] of the [[demigods]] is sometimes disturbed, but the residents of these {{Wiki|planets}} enjoy [[life]] without {{Wiki|disturbances}}. Thus they are understood to be very [[attached]] to [[illusory]] [[happiness]].” (SB 5.24.8) | + | [[Bila-svarga]] is the [[name]] of subterranean ‘[[heavens]]’ inhabited by the [[asuras]] and the [[Nagas]]. |
+ | |||
+ | [[Bhagavata Purana]] lists seven of them, one below another: [[Atala]], [[Vitala]], [[Sutala]], [[Talatala]], [[Mahatala]], [[Rasatala]] and [[Patala]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | '''[[Bila-svarga]]''' – “In these seven {{Wiki|planetary}} systems, which are also known as the subterranean [[heavens]] (([[bila-svarga]])]), there are very beautiful houses, [[gardens]] and places of [[sense]] [[enjoyment]], which are even more opulent than those in the higher {{Wiki|planets}} because the {{Wiki|demons}} have a very high standard of [[sensual pleasure]], [[wealth]] and influence. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Most of the residents of these {{Wiki|planets}}, who are known as [[Daityas]], [[Danavas]] and [[Nagas]], live as householders. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Their wives, children, friends and {{Wiki|society}} are all fully engaged in [[illusory]], material [[happiness]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The [[sense]] [[enjoyment]] of the [[demigods]] is sometimes disturbed, but the residents of these {{Wiki|planets}} enjoy [[life]] without {{Wiki|disturbances}}. Thus they are understood to be very [[attached]] to [[illusory]] [[happiness]].” (SB 5.24.8) | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | '''[[Asuras]]''' – “Now let me describe the sons of [[Diti]], who were begotten by [[Kasyapa]] but who became {{Wiki|demons}}. | ||
+ | |||
+ | In this demoniac [[family]] the great {{Wiki|devotee}} [[Prahlada]] [[Maharaja]] appeared, and [[Bali]] [[Maharaja]] also appeared in that [[family]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The {{Wiki|demons}} are technically known as [[Daityas]] because they proceeded from the [[womb]] of [[Diti]].” (SB 6.18.10) | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | “Beneath [[Mahatala]] is the {{Wiki|planetary}} system known as [[Rasatala]], which is the abode of the demoniac sons of [[Diti]] and [[Danu]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | They are called [[Panis]], [[Nivata-kavacas]], [[Kaleyas]] and [[Hiranya-puravasis]] [those living in [[Hiranya-pura]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | They are all enemies of the [[demigods]], and they reside in holes like {{Wiki|snakes}}. | ||
+ | |||
− | + | From [[birth]] they are extremely powerful and {{Wiki|cruel}}, and although they are proud of their strength, they are always defeated by the [[Sudarsana]] [[cakra]] of the [[Supreme Personality of Godhead]], who {{Wiki|rules}} all the {{Wiki|planetary}} systems. | |
− | + | When a {{Wiki|female}} messenger from [[Indra]] named [[Sarama]] [[chants]] a particular curse, the [[serpentine]] {{Wiki|demons}} of [[Mahatala]] become very afraid of [[Indra]].” (SB 5.24.30) | |
[[File:Naga.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | [[File:Naga.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | ||
− | |||
− | I have become one of the [[asuras]] or [[Nagas]], half [[human]] and half [[serpent]] [[beings]], who are enjoying high standard of material [[life]] on sub-earthly levels. I am endowed with [[supernatural powers]], totally irreligious and usually inimical to [[humans]]. This seemingly {{Wiki|ideal}} [[life]] is interrupted from [[time]] to [[time]] – I am killed by Lord’s [[Sudarsana]] [[chakra]] and born as a [[human]]. | + | |
+ | '''[[Nagas]] '''– “Beneath [[Rasatala]] is another {{Wiki|planetary}} system, known as [[Patala]] or [[Nagaloka]], where there are many demoniac serpents, the [[masters]] of [[Nagaloka]], such as [[Sankha]], [[Kulika]], [[Mahasankha]], [[Sveta]], [[Dhananjaya]], [[Dhrtarastra]], [[Sankhacuda]], [[Kambala]], [[Asvatara]] and [[Devadatta]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The chief among them is [[Vasuki]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | They are all extremely [[angry]], and they have many, many hoods – some {{Wiki|snakes}} five hoods, some seven, some ten, others a hundred and others a thousand. | ||
+ | |||
+ | These hoods are bedecked with valuable [[gems]], and the {{Wiki|light}} [[emanating]] from the [[gems]] illuminates the entire {{Wiki|planetary}} system of [[bila-svarga]].” (SB 5.24.31) | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | I have become one of the [[asuras]] or [[Nagas]], half [[human]] and half [[serpent]] [[beings]], who are enjoying high standard of material [[life]] on sub-earthly levels. I am endowed with [[supernatural powers]], totally irreligious and usually inimical to [[humans]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | This seemingly {{Wiki|ideal}} [[life]] is interrupted from [[time]] to [[time]] – I am killed by Lord’s [[Sudarsana]] [[chakra]] and born as a [[human]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
==[[Hells]] – [[Narakas]]== | ==[[Hells]] – [[Narakas]]== | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
[[File:Naaraka.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Naaraka.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | '''[[Hells]] ([[Naraka]])''' – the lowest levels in the [[universe]], places to [[suffer]] for committing specific vikarmas for a determined [[time]]. [[Yamadutas]] are bringing me to [[Yamaraja]], the [[judge of the dead | + | '''[[Hells]] ([[Naraka]])''' – the lowest levels in the [[universe]], places to [[suffer]] for committing specific [[vikarmas]] for a determined [[time]]. [[Yamadutas]] are bringing me to [[Yamaraja]], the [[judge of the dead]]. |
− | “While living one may be proud of one’s [[body]], [[thinking]] oneself a very big man, [[minister]], president or even [[demigod]], but whatever one may be, after [[death]] this [[body]] will turn either into worms, into stool or into ashes. If one kills poor [[animals]] to satisfy the temporary whims of this [[body]], one does not know that he will [[suffer]] in his next [[birth]], for such a sinful miscreant must go to [[hell]] and [[suffer]] the results of his [[actions]].” (SB 10.10.10) | + | He will determine the type and length of my {{Wiki|punishment}} according to [[dharma]] [[sastras]]. After my {{Wiki|punishment}} is over I will be born as an [[animal]]. |
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | “While living one may be proud of one’s [[body]], [[thinking]] oneself a very big man, [[minister]], [[president]] or even [[demigod]], but whatever one may be, after [[death]] this [[body]] will turn either into worms, into stool or into ashes. | ||
+ | |||
+ | If one kills poor [[animals]] to satisfy the temporary whims of this [[body]], one does not know that he will [[suffer]] in his next [[birth]], for such a sinful miscreant must go to [[hell]] and [[suffer]] the results of his [[actions]].” (SB 10.10.10) | ||
[[File:Yum.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | [[File:Yum.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | ||
− | “As directed by Citragupta, he [[suffers]] in [[hell]]. Having [[suffered]] tortures there, he is born in low species. …” | + | |
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | “As directed by [[Citragupta]], he [[suffers]] in [[hell]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Having [[suffered]] tortures there, he is born in low {{Wiki|species}}. …” | ||
+ | |||
“When the expiatory and deterrent tortures in [[hell]] cease, the [[living beings]] are born again in [[human]] (or [[animal]] – 28) [[form]] with the [[characteristic]] traits of their [[sins]]. O foremost among birds, I shall tell you what these [[signs]] are.” ({{Wiki|Garuda Purana}} 2.10.88-89, 2.46.9-10,28) | “When the expiatory and deterrent tortures in [[hell]] cease, the [[living beings]] are born again in [[human]] (or [[animal]] – 28) [[form]] with the [[characteristic]] traits of their [[sins]]. O foremost among birds, I shall tell you what these [[signs]] are.” ({{Wiki|Garuda Purana}} 2.10.88-89, 2.46.9-10,28) | ||
+ | |||
'''[[Yamadutas]]''' – “Those who have passed several years in the dreadful [[hell]] and have no descendants (to offer gifts) in their favor become messengers of [[Yama]].” ({{Wiki|Garuda Purana}} 2.18.34) | '''[[Yamadutas]]''' – “Those who have passed several years in the dreadful [[hell]] and have no descendants (to offer gifts) in their favor become messengers of [[Yama]].” ({{Wiki|Garuda Purana}} 2.18.34) | ||
− | As a criminal is arrested for {{Wiki|punishment}} by the constables of the state, a [[person]] engaged in criminal [[sense]] gratification is similarly arrested by the [[Yamadutas]], who bind him by the neck with strong rope and cover his [[subtle body]] so that he may undergo severe {{Wiki|punishment}}. (SB 3.30.20) | + | As a criminal is arrested for {{Wiki|punishment}} by the constables of the [[state]], a [[person]] engaged in criminal [[sense]] gratification is similarly arrested by the [[Yamadutas]], who bind him by the neck with strong rope and cover his [[subtle body]] so that he may undergo severe {{Wiki|punishment}}. (SB 3.30.20) |
'''[[Yamaraja]]''' – The Judger of [[Sins]] – [[Dharmaraja]] or [[king]] of righteous [[thinking]]. | '''[[Yamaraja]]''' – The Judger of [[Sins]] – [[Dharmaraja]] or [[king]] of righteous [[thinking]]. | ||
[[File:Yum11.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | [[File:Yum11.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
− | '''[[Yamaraja]]''' – “The [[King]] of the pitas [{{Wiki|ancestors}}] is [[Yamaraja]], the very powerful son of the sun-god. He resides in Pitrloka with his personal assistants and, while abiding by the rules and regulations set down by the [[Supreme Lord]], has his agents, the [[Yamadutas]], bring all the sinful men to him immediately upon their [[death]]. After bringing them within his jurisdiction, he properly judges them according to their specific sinful [[activities]] and sends them to one of the many hellish {{Wiki|planets}} for suitable punishments.” (SB 5.26.6) | + | |
+ | '''[[Yamaraja]]''' – “The [[King]] of the pitas [{{Wiki|ancestors}}] is [[Yamaraja]], the very powerful son of the [[sun-god]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | He resides in [[Pitrloka]] with his personal assistants and, while abiding by the {{Wiki|rules}} and regulations set down by the [[Supreme Lord]], has his agents, the [[Yamadutas]], bring all the sinful men to him immediately upon their [[death]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | After bringing them within his jurisdiction, he properly judges them according to their specific sinful [[activities]] and sends them to one of the many hellish {{Wiki|planets}} for suitable punishments.” (SB 5.26.6) | ||
+ | |||
==[[Lord]] [[Ananta]]== | ==[[Lord]] [[Ananta]]== | ||
[[File:Lord-sleeping.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | [[File:Lord-sleeping.jpg|thumb|left|250px|]] | ||
− | Approximately 240,000 {{Wiki|miles}} beneath the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Patala]] [[lives]] another [[incarnation]] of the | + | |
+ | Approximately 240,000 {{Wiki|miles}} beneath the {{Wiki|planet}} [[Patala]] [[lives]] another [[incarnation]] of the [[Supreme Personality of Godhead]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | He is the expansion of [[Lord]] {{Wiki|Visnu}} known as [[Lord]] [[Ananta]] or [[Lord]] [[Sankarsana]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | He is always in the [[transcendental]] position, but because He is worshiped by [[Lord]] {{Wiki|Siva}}, the [[deity]] of [[tamo-guna]] or {{Wiki|darkness}}, | ||
+ | |||
+ | He is sometimes called [[tamasi]]. [[Lord]] [[Ananta]] is the predominating [[Deity]] of the material mode of [[ignorance]] as well as the false [[ego]] of all [[conditioned]] [[souls]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | When a [[conditioned]] [[living being]] [[thinks]], “I am the enjoyer, and this [[world]] is meant to be enjoyed by me,” this {{Wiki|conception}} of [[life]] is dictated to him by [[Sankarsana]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Thus the [[mundane]] [[conditioned]] [[soul]] [[thinks]] himself the [[Supreme Lord]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | This great [[universe]], situated on one of [[Lord]] [[Anantadeva’s]] thousands of hoods, appears just like a {{Wiki|white mustard}} seed. | ||
+ | |||
+ | It is infinitesimal compared to the hood of [[Lord]] [[Ananta]]. At the [[time]] of devastation, when [[Lord]] [[Anantadeva]] [[desires]] to destroy the entire creation, | ||
+ | |||
+ | He becomes slightly [[angry]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Then from between His two [[eyebrows]] appears three-eyed [[Rudra]], carrying a [[trident]]. | ||
{{R}} | {{R}} |
Latest revision as of 09:28, 4 April 2016
Hari Om Tat Sat – Hari is the Absolute Truth, Past Present and Future
Before you read anything below, you have to know that Vedas have been written by globally reknowed scholars over millions of years. Sanskrit is beleived to have come from Demi Gods and Munis or saints.Vedas have been written and acknowledged world wide.
You will find Vedas as Ventas and Sholkas as Slovacs in all over Europe. Sanskrit is the most difficult language on earth and beyond.
To learn it many aspirants came to India and many scholars travelled worldwide for thousands of years. On the fact we have traces sanskrit in european, german, armani and arabic languages.
The Vedas are beleived to have come straight from the mouth of Brahma -the secondary creator of universe, a demi god. Brahma had been appointed by Mahavishnu or GOD to create materialistic world.
These Vedas were then absorbed by Sapta Rishis who spread the knowledge of GOD in this whole world.
The sapta rishis are still a evidence of prior existence according to Astronomy as seven stars in the galaxy. I plead the reader to read this article with full consciousness and leave aside the ego of extremity and ignorance.
Devi-Dhama
This material world is the realm of Durga who is the material energy in her personal form.
“The goddess Durga was decorated with flower garlands, smeared with sandalwood pulp and dressed with excellent garments and ornaments made of valuable jewels.
Holding in her hands a bow, a trident, arrows, a shield, a sword, a conchshell, a disc and a club, and being praised by celestial beings like Apsaras, Kinnaras, Uragas, Siddhas, Caranas and Gandharvas, who worshiped her with all kinds of presentations, she spoke as follows.” (SB 10.4.10-11)
I, jiva, am now just a transcendental sparkle of an atomic size and according to my desire and karma I take birth in various material bodies one after another (the cycle of birth and death,
or samsara) within this world characterized by all-pervading presence of birth, death, old age and disease (janma-mrtyu-jara-vyadhi).
These are symptoms of my conditioned life based on my identification with matter. During my whole stay here I am accompanied by the Lord in His invisible form of Paramatma (Supersoul) in my heart. He lets me act according to my desires and witnesses and approves my actions.
Paramatma – “I am seated in everyone’s heart, and from Me come remembrance, knowledge and forgetfulness. By all the Vedas, I am to be known. Indeed, I am the compiler of Vedanta, and I am the knower of the Vedas.” (BG 15.15)
“Sri Krsna, the Personality of Godhead, who is the Paramatma (Supersoul) in everyone’s heart and the benefactor of the truthful devotee, cleanses desire for material enjoyment from the heart of the devotee who has developed the urge to hear His messages, which are in themselves virtuous when properly heard and chanted.” (SB 1.2.17)
“One who worships the Deity of Godhead in the temples but does not know that the Supreme Lord, as Paramatma, is situated in every living entity’s heart, must be in ignorance and is compared to one who offers oblations into ashes.” (SB 3.29.22)
All the universes are clustered together up and down, and each and every one of them is separately sevenfold-covered. The watery portion is beyond the sevenfold coverings, and each covering is ten times more expansive than the previous covering.
The extent of the cosmic phenomenon is calculated to be diametrically (both ways) four billion miles.
Then the coverings of the universe begin.
The first stratum of the covering (earth) is calculated to extend eighty million miles, and the subsequent coverings of the universe are respectively of fire, effulgence, air and ether, one after another, each extending ten times further than the previous. (SB 2.2.28 p.)1 yojan = 8 miles = 12,8 km Dhruvaloka, the polestar, is 3,800,000 yojanas above the sun.
Above Dhruvaloka by 10,000,000 yojanas is Maharloka, above Maharloka by 20,000,000 yojanas is Janaloka, above Janaloka by 80,000,000 yojanas is Tapoloka, and above Tapoloka by 120,000,000 yojanas is Satyaloka.
Thus the distance from the sun to Satyaloka is 233,800,000 yojanas, or 1,870,400,000 miles.
The Vaikuntha planets begin 26,200,000 yojanas (209,600,000 miles) above Satyaloka. Thus the Visnu Purana describes that the covering of the universe is 260,000,000 yojanas (2,080,000,000 miles) away from the sun. (SB 5.23.9 p.)
Satyaloka
My first body is that of Brahma, the secondary creator of this world. I live on Satyaloka, the topmost dimensional level in this world. If I am a pure devotee of the Lord, at the end of my long life I will return to Hari-dhama together with my associates, great sages. Otherwise I will be born as a great sage on Muniloka.
“Both the Lord and the living entity, being qualitatively spirit soul, have the tendency for peaceful enjoyment, but when the part of the Supreme Personality of Godhead unfortunately wants to enjoy independently, without Krsna, he is put into the material world, where he begins his life as Brahma and is gradually degraded to the status of an ant or a worm in stool.” (SB 9.24.58 p.)
“The yogis who become detached from the material world by practice of breathing exercises and control of the mind reach the planet of Brahma, which is far, far away.
After giving up their bodies, they enter into the body of Lord Brahma, and therefore when Brahma is liberated and goes to the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who is the Supreme Brahman, such yogis can also enter into the kingdom of God.” (SB 3.32.10)
Muniloka
Muniloka is the general name of the abodes of great sages: Tapoloka, Janaloka, Maharloka.
These sages constantly meditate on the Lord. Here I’m one of the sages and by my meditation I can go either higher, up to Satyaloka, to become Brahma’s associate, or down, to the level of devas (demigods).
“By mystic yoga, great austerities and the renounced order of life, the pure destinations of Maharloka, Janoloka, Tapoloka and Satyaloka are attained. But by devotional yoga, one achieves My transcendental abode.” (SB 11.24.14)
The moon is situated 100,000 yojanas above the rays of the sunshine.
Day and night on the heavenly planets and Pitrloka are calculated according to its waning and waxing.
Above the moon by a distance of 200,000 yojanas are some stars, and above these stars is Sukra-graha (Venus), whose influence is always auspicious for the inhabitants of the entire universe.
Above Sukra-graha by 200,000 yojanas is Budha-graha (Mercury), whose influence is sometimes auspicious and sometimes inauspicious.
Next, above Budha-graha by 200,000 yojanas, is Angaraka (Mars), which almost always has an unfavorable influence.
Above Angaraka by another 200,000 yojanas is the planet called Brhaspati-graha (Jupiter), which is always very favorable for qualified brahmanas.
Above Brhaspati-graha is the planet Sanaiscara (Saturn), which is very inauspicious, and above Saturn is a group of seven stars occupied by great saintly persons who are always thinking of the welfare of the entire universe.
These seven stars circumambulate Dhruvaloka, which is the residence of Lord Visnu within this universe. (SB 5.22) Moon distance
Svargaloka
Svargaloka is the abode of demigods. I’m now Indra (the chief demigod) or one of the other demigods in a cosmic hierarchy (agnir vai devAnAm avamo viSNuH paramas, tadantareNa sarvA anyA devatA – “Agni is the lowest and Vishnu is the highest among devas.
All other gods occupy positions that are in between.” Aitareya Brahmana 1.1.1) and my duty is to manage the affairs of the universe, protecting its inhabitants against the asuras (demons) as an empowered servant of the Lord.
If I become advanced in my devotional service, I will be born as a sage in Muniloka. If I become attached to material enjoyment, I will degrade into a lower position becoming a semi-demigod or a human being.
“Men of small knowledge are very much attached to the flowery words of the Vedas, which recommend various fruitive activities for elevation to heavenly planets, resultant good birth, power, and so forth. Being desirous of sense gratification and opulent life, they say that there is nothing more than this.” (BG 2.42-43)
Neither the demigods controlling fire, the sun, the moon and the stars nor those in charge of earth, water, ether, air, speech and mind actually remove the sins of their worshipers, who continue to see in terms of dualities. But wise sages destroy one’s sins when respectfully served for even a few moments. (SB 10.84.12)
Indra: “We are now living in the heavenly planets, undoubtedly as a result of our having performed ritualistic ceremonies, pious activities and yajnas and having studied the Vedas.
However, our lives here will one day be finished. We pray that at that time, if any merit remains from our pious activities, we may again take birth in Bharata-varsa as human beings able to remember the lotus feet of the Lord.
The Lord is so kind that He personally comes to the land of Bharata-varsa and expands the good fortune of its people.” (SB 5.19.28)
Bhuvarloka
Bhuvarloka – the level of semi-demigods (Carana, Vidyadhara, Kinnara, Kimpurusa etc.).
As one of the lesser demigods I am assisting the demigods in various ways and sometimes interacting with the humans.
By advancement in my service I can become a demigod or to subdue to the enjoying nature and be born as a human on the earthly level, Bhurloka.
Semi-demigods - “Below Rahu by 10,000 yojanas [80,000 miles] are the planets known as Siddhaloka, Caranaloka and Vidyadhara-loka.” (SB 5.24.4)
“While He was passing in the northern direction, all the celestial denizens known as Caranas and Gandharvas, as well as the munis and the damsels of the heavenly planets, prayed and offered Him all respects. The ocean offered Him oblations and a place of residence.” (SB 3.33.34)
Rahu is situated 10,000 yojanas below the sun. Below Rahu by another 10,000 yojanas are the planets of the Siddhas, Caranas and Vidyadharas, and below these are planets such as Yaksaloka and Raksaloka.
Below these planets is the earth, and 70,000 yojanas below the earth are the lower planetary systems Bila-svarga: Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala, Rasatala and Patala.
Demons and Raksasas live in these lower planetary systems with their wives and children, always engaged in sense gratification and not fearing their next births.
The sunshine does not reach these planets, but they are illuminated by jewels fixed upon the hoods of snakes. Because of these shining gems there is practically no darkness.
Those living in these planets do not become old or diseased, and they are not afraid of death from any cause but the time factor, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
In the planet Atala, the yawning of a demon has produced three kinds of women, called svairini (independent), kamini (lusty) and pumscali (very easily subdued by men).
Below Atala is the planet Vitala, wherein Lord Siva and his wife Gauri reside. Because of their presence, a kind of gold is produced called hataka.
Below Vitala is the planet Sutala, the abode of Bali Maharaja, the most fortunate king. Bali Maharaja was favored by the Supreme personality of Godhead, Vamanadeva, because of his intense devotional service.
Below Sutala is the planet Talatala, the abode of the demon Maya.
This demon is always materially happy because he is favored by Lord Siva, but he cannot achieve spiritual happiness at any time.
Below Talatala is the planet Mahatala, where there are many snakes with hundreds and thousands of hoods.
Below Mahatala is Rasatala, and below that is Patala (Nagaloka), where the serpent Vasuki lives with his associates. (SB 5.24)The hellish planets are situated in the intermediate space between the three worlds and the Garbhodaka Ocean.
They lie on the southern side of the universe, beneath Bhu-mandala, and slightly above the water of the Garbhodaka Ocean.
Pitrloka is also located in this region between the Garbhodaka Ocean and the lower planetary systems. All the residents of Pitrloka, headed by Agnisvatta, meditate in great samadhi on the Supreme Personality of Godhead and always wish their families well. (SB 5.26.5)
Approximately 240,000 miles beneath the planet Patala lives Lord Ananta. This great universe, situated on one of Lord Anantadeva’s thousands of hoods, appears just like a white mustard seed. It is infinitesimal compared to the hood of Lord Ananta. (SB 5.25.1-2)
The distance from the sun to the earth is lower planetary systems called Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala, Rasatala and Patala.
Below these lower planets by 30,000 yojanas, Sesa Naga is lying on the Garbhodaka Ocean.
That ocean is 249,800,000 yojanas deep. Thus the total diameter of the universe is approximately 500,000,000 yojanas, or 4,000,000,000 miles. (SB 5.23.9 p.)
Antariksa
Between Bhuvarloka and Bhurloka is antariksa, an interplanetary space where the Sun is situated. Here live beings like Raksasas, Yaksas, Pisacas and ghosts.
They often descend on earth and are generally inimical to humans. Usuallly they will be born later as humans.
Ghosts – “Living entities who are associates of Rudra develop in the third mode of material nature, or ignorance. They are situated in the sky between the earthly planets and the heavenly planets.” (SB 3.6.29)
“Beneath Vidyadhara-loka, Caranaloka and Siddhaloka, in the sky called antariksa, are the places of enjoyment for the Yaksas, Raksasas, Pisacas, ghosts and so on.
Antariksa extends as far as the wind blows and the clouds float in the sky. Above this there is no more air.” (SB 5.24.5)
Bhurloka
Bhurloka, or Bhu-mandala is the earthly level consisting of seven spheres (dvipas) – Jambudvipa, Plaksadvipa, Salmalidvipa, Kusadvipa, Krauncadvipa, Sakadvipa, Puskaradvipa – which are inhabited by various human beings.
“The planetary system known as Bhu-mandala resembles a lotus flower, and its seven islands resemble the whorl of that flower. The length and breadth of the island known as Jambudvipa, which is situated in the middle of the whorl, are one million yojanas [eight million miles].
Jambudvipa is round like the leaf of a lotus flower.” (SB 5.16.5)
he planet Earth where I live now as a human being is situated within Jambudvipa.
It is known as karma-bhumi (Visnu Purana 2.3.2), the place where new karma is created, a kind of cosmic crossroad. Here I will decide about my future situation, higher or lower, by acting in a particular way (not that “all paths are the same” – yatha mata tatha pata).
“King Rahugana said: This birth as a human being is the best of all. Even birth among the demigods in the heavenly planets is not as glorious as birth as a human being on this earth.
What is the use of the exalted position of a demigod? In the heavenly planets, due to profuse material comforts, there is no possibility of associating with devotees.” (SB 5.13.21)
Bila-Svarga
Bila-svarga is the name of subterranean ‘heavens’ inhabited by the asuras and the Nagas.
Bhagavata Purana lists seven of them, one below another: Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Talatala, Mahatala, Rasatala and Patala.
Bila-svarga – “In these seven planetary systems, which are also known as the subterranean heavens ((bila-svarga)]), there are very beautiful houses, gardens and places of sense enjoyment, which are even more opulent than those in the higher planets because the demons have a very high standard of sensual pleasure, wealth and influence.
Most of the residents of these planets, who are known as Daityas, Danavas and Nagas, live as householders.
Their wives, children, friends and society are all fully engaged in illusory, material happiness.
The sense enjoyment of the demigods is sometimes disturbed, but the residents of these planets enjoy life without disturbances. Thus they are understood to be very attached to illusory happiness.” (SB 5.24.8)
Asuras – “Now let me describe the sons of Diti, who were begotten by Kasyapa but who became demons.
In this demoniac family the great devotee Prahlada Maharaja appeared, and Bali Maharaja also appeared in that family.
The demons are technically known as Daityas because they proceeded from the womb of Diti.” (SB 6.18.10)
“Beneath Mahatala is the planetary system known as Rasatala, which is the abode of the demoniac sons of Diti and Danu.
They are called Panis, Nivata-kavacas, Kaleyas and Hiranya-puravasis [those living in Hiranya-pura.
They are all enemies of the demigods, and they reside in holes like snakes.
From birth they are extremely powerful and cruel, and although they are proud of their strength, they are always defeated by the Sudarsana cakra of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who rules all the planetary systems.
When a female messenger from Indra named Sarama chants a particular curse, the serpentine demons of Mahatala become very afraid of Indra.” (SB 5.24.30)
Nagas – “Beneath Rasatala is another planetary system, known as Patala or Nagaloka, where there are many demoniac serpents, the masters of Nagaloka, such as Sankha, Kulika, Mahasankha, Sveta, Dhananjaya, Dhrtarastra, Sankhacuda, Kambala, Asvatara and Devadatta.
The chief among them is Vasuki.
They are all extremely angry, and they have many, many hoods – some snakes five hoods, some seven, some ten, others a hundred and others a thousand.
These hoods are bedecked with valuable gems, and the light emanating from the gems illuminates the entire planetary system of bila-svarga.” (SB 5.24.31)
I have become one of the asuras or Nagas, half human and half serpent beings, who are enjoying high standard of material life on sub-earthly levels. I am endowed with supernatural powers, totally irreligious and usually inimical to humans.
This seemingly ideal life is interrupted from time to time – I am killed by Lord’s Sudarsana chakra and born as a human.
Hells – Narakas
Hells (Naraka) – the lowest levels in the universe, places to suffer for committing specific vikarmas for a determined time. Yamadutas are bringing me to Yamaraja, the judge of the dead.
He will determine the type and length of my punishment according to dharma sastras. After my punishment is over I will be born as an animal.
“While living one may be proud of one’s body, thinking oneself a very big man, minister, president or even demigod, but whatever one may be, after death this body will turn either into worms, into stool or into ashes.
If one kills poor animals to satisfy the temporary whims of this body, one does not know that he will suffer in his next birth, for such a sinful miscreant must go to hell and suffer the results of his actions.” (SB 10.10.10)
“As directed by Citragupta, he suffers in hell.
Having suffered tortures there, he is born in low species. …”
“When the expiatory and deterrent tortures in hell cease, the living beings are born again in human (or animal – 28) form with the characteristic traits of their sins. O foremost among birds, I shall tell you what these signs are.” (Garuda Purana 2.10.88-89, 2.46.9-10,28)
Yamadutas – “Those who have passed several years in the dreadful hell and have no descendants (to offer gifts) in their favor become messengers of Yama.” (Garuda Purana 2.18.34)
As a criminal is arrested for punishment by the constables of the state, a person engaged in criminal sense gratification is similarly arrested by the Yamadutas, who bind him by the neck with strong rope and cover his subtle body so that he may undergo severe punishment. (SB 3.30.20)
Yamaraja – The Judger of Sins – Dharmaraja or king of righteous thinking.
Yamaraja – “The King of the pitas [[[Wikipedia:ancestors|ancestors]]] is Yamaraja, the very powerful son of the sun-god.
He resides in Pitrloka with his personal assistants and, while abiding by the rules and regulations set down by the Supreme Lord, has his agents, the Yamadutas, bring all the sinful men to him immediately upon their death.
After bringing them within his jurisdiction, he properly judges them according to their specific sinful activities and sends them to one of the many hellish planets for suitable punishments.” (SB 5.26.6)
Lord Ananta
Approximately 240,000 miles beneath the planet Patala lives another incarnation of the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
He is the expansion of Lord Visnu known as Lord Ananta or Lord Sankarsana.
He is always in the transcendental position, but because He is worshiped by Lord Siva, the deity of tamo-guna or darkness,
He is sometimes called tamasi. Lord Ananta is the predominating Deity of the material mode of ignorance as well as the false ego of all conditioned souls.
When a conditioned living being thinks, “I am the enjoyer, and this world is meant to be enjoyed by me,” this conception of life is dictated to him by Sankarsana.
Thus the mundane conditioned soul thinks himself the Supreme Lord.
This great universe, situated on one of Lord Anantadeva’s thousands of hoods, appears just like a white mustard seed.
It is infinitesimal compared to the hood of Lord Ananta. At the time of devastation, when Lord Anantadeva desires to destroy the entire creation,
He becomes slightly angry.
Then from between His two eyebrows appears three-eyed Rudra, carrying a trident.