14 Lokas in Hinduism and Their Relationship with Consciousness.

 

14 Lokas in Hinduism An Exploration .

14 Lokas in Hinduism is suspense theory for many peoples.Friends, in Sanatana Dharma, you must have heard about Lokas like Devloka, Bhuloka, and Mrityuloka. Shivji is often referred to as Trilokinath, meaning the lord of all three Lokas. The concept of Lokas is integral to Sanatana Dharma, and it is not merely an ancient imagination. We find descriptions of 14 Lokas in  hinduism in the Vrindaranayak Upanishad of the Yajurveda.

Theory of Everything and String theory to understand 14 Lokas in Hinduism

Debates on the concept of 14 Lokas in Hinduism have also occurred in ancient India, such as in the legendary Gargi Shastrath between Gargi and Yajnavalkya. Today, in modern physics, we talk about the "Theory of Everything," which seeks to explain all fundamental forces of the universe and forms of matter. String theory, a prominent candidate for this theory, proposes that particles are not discrete points but one-dimensional strings of vibrational energy. Interestingly, these vibrations are not limited to three-dimensional space. To explain all known and unknown particles, higher-dimensional space is required. This raises the question: Do the teachings of Sanatana Dharma hint at these extra dimensions?

Friends. Welcome to the Pure Hindu life. In this article, we will know about Lokas in Sanatana Dharma and explore whether these 14  Lokas in Hinduismof might represent the other dimensions of the universe. Modern physicists increasingly accept that our universe is composed of multiple dimensions and that our three-dimensional reality is merely a subset.

14 Lokas in  Hinduism at Vedic Literature

Many people regard the concept of 14 Lokas in Hinduism as mythological stories. However, you may be surprised to learn that Vedic literature provides extensive descriptions of Lokas. For instance, the Taittiriya Aranyaka of the Krishna Yajurveda mentions Lokas in its 7th chapter and 5th Anuvakya. It lists seven Lokas: Bhu, Bhuva, Suva, Maha, Jana, Tapa, and Satya.

Maharishi Ved Vyasa, who composed the Mahabharata, also elaborated on Lokas while explaining Maharishi Patanjali's Yoga Sutras in his commentary, the Yoga Bhasya. According to him, some of 14 Lokas in Hinduism exist in the celestial north of the Earth, while others are in the celestial south. If one connects the north and south poles of the Earth, extending the line in both directions, one encounters these dimensions and Lokas.

Beyond the Taittiriya Aranyaka, 14 Lokas in Hinduism are also extensively discussed in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad of the Shukla Yajurveda. During the debate between Gargi and Yajnavalkya in its first section, Lokas are a central theme. This confirms that Lokas are not merely mythological; they are well-documented in Vedic texts, including the Aranyakas, Upanishads, Darshanas, and Upangas.

14 Lokas in Hinduism: Realms of Reality

The word "Lok" is derived from the Sanskrit root "Lokra Darshane Dhatu," which means "to see" or "observe." Words like "Avlokan," meaning "to observe," also stem from this root. When the suffix "Ghea" is added to "Lokra Darshane Dhatu," the word "Lok" is formed, signifying anything that can be seen or experienced.

Understanding the grammatical construction of this word involves delving into Sanskrit grammar, including the role of roots (Dhatu) and suffixes (Pratyay). If you are interested in learning Sanskrit, it is a best idea for you. Because if you learn Sanskrit well then you  can  also learn other languages easily. Sanskrit is the mother of all languages and also science of language.

Grammatical construction of the word Loka.

To understand the word "Lok," it is essential to delve into the concepts of Dhatus (roots) and Pratyas (suffixes). The Lokra Darshane Dhatu is not limited to Sanskrit; its essence can be found in all Indo-European languages and ancient tongues. For instance, consider the word "Luminous" in English, which means "shiny" or "radiant." Similarly, in Latin, there is the word "Leucio," which also means "to shine." In Greek, the word "Luka" means "light," and when it was later adapted into English, it became "Light," retaining its meaning of illumination.

This connection reveals that the essence of Lokra Dhatu, which conveys the idea of seeing, shining, and brightness, has been embedded in many languages. From this root, the word "Lok" emerged, signifying that which is visible, luminous, or existent.

In Sanskrit, the word "Lok" has been used to describe planets, the universe, existence, and even planes of consciousness. In some contexts, it also refers to our experiences or awareness. However, when exploring this topic, the primary confusion arises: Are the 14  Lokas in Hinduism we speak of part of our physical reality, existing on the material plane? Or are they part of a subtle, astral reality?

14 Lokas in Hinduism in Veda and Puram

This distinction is important to grasp. When one reads the Puranas, the descriptions of 14 Lokas in Hinduism often seem to indicate their existence on a physical level. For instance, it is sometimes mentioned that the astral worlds are full of snakes, which could be seen as an imaginative way of explaining Vedic knowledge. The teachings are often presented in a summarized or illustrative manner.

In contrast, the descriptions of 14 Lokas in Hinduism in Vedic literature and texts are slightly different. In Vedic contexts, the word "Lok" is predominantly used to refer to celestial or heavenly bodies. For example:

• Suryalok refers to the Sun.
• Chandralok refers to the Moon.
• Bhulok refers to the Earth.
• Nakshatralok refers to the stars or constellations.

Here, the word "Lok" is used to describe the planes or movements of celestial entities. However, when we encounter terms like Swargalok, Indralok, Brahmalok, or Vaikunthalok, it becomes unclear whether these are physical worlds, subtle realms, or dimensions beyond our sensory perception.

The primary source of this confusion is our tendency to equate the universe with what is observable by our senses. We often disregard the possibility of realities existing beyond the physical level. However, our own scriptures address these subtler realities by discussing the concept of the subtle body. For instance, our Sanskaras (rituals) acknowledge this subtle body, with the final sanskara being the Agni Sanskara

Subtle body and Gross body

The Agni Sanskar is performed because your gross body, which you have received from your parents, and your subtle body, which is connected to your previous life, separate at the time of death. The subtle body, which has taken residence in the gross body, detaches itself from it. Since the gross body is part of this physical reality, its separation signifies a detachment from the physical world. This separation takes the subtle body into another dimension.

When the subtle body separates from the physical world, it no longer resides in the physical dimension. This is why the subtle body is beyond our senses and the five elements. Interestingly, when we consider string theory, it also postulates the existence of at least ten dimensions in the universe. String theory suggests that the vibrations of strings require these dimensions for the fundamental particles of the universe to form.

Compactification in science about 14 lokas in Hinduism.

However, one doubt arises: if there are vibrations across so many dimensions, why do the particles that are formed manifest only as three-dimensional entities? Why do they specifically choose our physical dimension? This phenomenon, where multiple dimensions reduce themselves to fewer dimensions, is called compactification in science. Compactification means that higher dimensions fold in on themselves, leaving only a few dimensions where reality is created and experienced.

To understand this concept more easily, imagine an object in our three-dimensional space. When you are close to it, you perceive it fully in 3D. But as you move farther away from it, the same three-dimensional object starts appearing as two-dimensional. This transition in perception is an analogy for how higher dimensions compactify into lower-dimensional realities.

And if you go further away from it, then you will start seeing it in D. If you go very far, then it will become a point object, and it will move in Dimension. This is called compactification. That is, the many dimensions that we were able to observe closely cannot be seen from a distance.

While  multiple dimensions open and close  what happens?

The same thing happens with a subtle body. When multiple dimensions close themselves, our physical body is absorbed, and we come to the physical world. However, when these multiple dimensions open, we cannot see them because we cannot observe them with our senses.

In addition, our Sanatan Dharma books talk about vertical dimensions and connect them with consciousness. So, let's learn about them. Friends, our universe is full of thousands of interesting things, especially in the realm of higher dimensions.

Understand it from a scientific or logical point of view

If you want to understand it from a scientific or logical point of view, you will need to enhance your understanding of science. To do so, I recommend a great audiobook titled Modern Science: Decoding Universe, which explains complex topics like Quantum Theory, Relativity, Hologram Effect, and Doppler Effect. Once you have general knowledge of these topics, you can start seeing the universe from a new perspective.

There are many benefits to audiobooks. For instance, you can listen to them anywhere—you don’t have to carry a physical book. If you’re jogging in the morning or doing housework in the afternoon, you can listen then. Even at night, it’s convenient. Moreover, audiobooks reduce screen time, which helps keep your eyes healthy.

On KUKU FM, you’ll find audiobooks available in many categories. Now, let's understand vertical dimensions. According to Vedic texts, the place where we live—our Earth—is called Bhulok. In the Puranas, it is also referred to as Mrityulok. Bhuv Loka represents the physical world of the universe.

What is Bhu loka and Bhuba loka?

As explained earlier, our physical world, from Bhu Loka to Dhruv Tare (the stars), encompasses all visible things in the universe. Everything at the physical level and within physical reality comes under Bhuv Loka of the !4 lokas in Hinduism. The first two of the seven vertical dimensions represent this physical realm, which is composed of the five Mahabhutas.

The Earth is called Martya Loka or Bhu Loka. Additionally, all things we see in the universe—constellations, the solar system, planets, and stars—are part of Bhuv Loka. Together, Bhu Loka and Bhuv Loka make up our physical world, formed by the five Mahabhutas.

Maharishi Patanjali’s Yog Sutra

However, as stated in the Vyasa Bhashya of Maharishi Patanjali’s Yog Sutra, beyond these two Lokas, the five remaining of 14 Lokas in Hinduism the vertical dimension are not physical. These represent a scale of consciousness.

The five Lokas beyond the physical realm are referred to as Swa Loka. In the Puranas, this is also called Swarga Loka. Let us now explore how these Swa Lokas are defined and explained.

Friends, as we read in Agni Sanskar, our physical body, which exists in the physical world, separates through the medium of the body. This physical body, associated with Bhu and Bhuv Loka, transitions out of these two Lokas and moves to Swar Loka.

The specialty of Swar Loka

The specialty of Swar Loka lies in its higher consciousness or Chetna. In Bhu and Bhuv Loka, the Chitta and individuals appear distinct due to egoistic feelings. However, in Swar Loka, all Chittas are seen as originating from the same source, representing a common consciousness. When entering the physical world, this unity dissolves due to ego, but Swar Loka reveals this shared energy.

In the Puranas, Swar Loka is called Deva Loka, Indra Loka, or Brahma Loka. In philosophical systems like Darshan, it is known as the Loka of Uchi Yonis. According to Sankhya Darshan, there are three Lokas: Urdhva Loka, Bhu Loka, and Mool Loka.

Urdhva Loka

Sankhya Darshan describes Urdhva Loka of 14 lokas in hinduism as a realm of light where Rishis and Devas dwell, It reflects Sato Gun. Bhu Loka represents a fast-paced world dominated by Rajo gun, symbolizing desires and activity. Mool Loka, or Pataal Loka, reflects Tamo gun, symbolizing laziness and darkness. The Puranas describe Pataal Loka as full of snakes, a metaphor for cold-blooded, lethargic beings.

In Yoga Darshan, Maharshi Patanjali explains how Yogis practicing Ashtanga Yoga attain Siddhis but may become trapped in Swar Loka, failing to leave the universe and reach Moksha or Kaivalya. Sankhya Darshan teaches how we enter the universe, while Yoga Darshan of Maharshi Patanjali has told how to exit it.

\Friends, on our Shikshanam App, we offer Darshans classes. There are free classes available, and for those interested in more in-depth learning, we provide detailed courses that explain all the Sanskrit Sutras in a simple and scientific way.

Mehar Loka

We have already understood that Bhu and Bhuv Loka are the physical world's Lokas. Above these lies Swar Loka, where Satgun is prevalent. In Vedic texts, there is also mention of Mehar Loka of 14 lokas in Hinduism . When you read about Mehar Loka, you will discover that the laws of nature are formed here.

If you read the Vyasa Bhashya of the Yoga Sutra, you will find a description of Mehar Loka. It mentions types of Divine Beings such as Kumud, Ribhu, Pratardhan, Anchanav, and Prachitrav. These Divine Beings are associated with the Panchabhoots—Water, Sky, Fire, Air, and Earth. They are said to bind these Mahabhoots within certain universal laws.

Sankhya Darshan.

When we study more about Lokas, we see similarities with Sankhya Darshan. For instance, Mehar Loka connects to Brahma Loka, which is made up of Jan Lok, Tap Lok, and Satya Lok. These represent higher states of consciousness.

According to Vyasa Bhashya, Divine Beings such as Brahma Purohit, Brahma Kaika, Brahma Maha Kaika, Ajar, and Amar reside here. These beings create the blueprints of the senses. The type of senses they design determines the corresponding Mahabhoots that manifest.

Panch Mahabhoots and Tanmatras creation

In Sankhya Darshan, it is explained that ego forms the blueprint, which leads to the creation of Tanmatras and ultimately the Panch Mahabhoots. For example, if there are eyes, there must be vision; if there is ears, there must be sound. Thus, higher authorities decide what types of senses will exist in the universe.

Below this level, as described in Mehar Loka, the rules of the Mahabhoots are established according to the blueprint. These rules define Sankhya Darshan.

In Sankhya Darshan, the creation of the universe starts with Mool Prakriti. When it manifests along with Purush, Cosmic Intelligence, or Mahat, is formed. From Mahat arises the ego, which creates the blueprint of the senses and Karmendriyas. From the blueprint, Tanmatras emerge, which then give rise to the Panch Mahabhoots.

Brahma Lok

Thus, Panch Mahabhoot corresponds to Bhu and Bhuv Lok. Tanmatra corresponds to Mehar Lok. Above this is the ego, which forms the blueprint of the senses, and this is associated with Brahma Lok, comprising Jan Lok, Tap Lok, and Sat Lok.

The beings responsible for creating the blueprints of the senses reside in Jan Lok. As mentioned earlier, Brahma Lok is composed of Jan Lok, Tap Lok, and Sat Lok. Moving towards Tap Lok, there are three types of divine beings: Abhashwar, Mahabhashwar, and Satyamahabhashwar.

Cosmic Intelligence

These beings possess a higher level of intelligence, which can be referred to as Cosmic Intelligence. They understand the dimensions of the universe, the formation of natural laws, and the creation of senses. This Cosmic Intelligence oversees how the blueprints are designed and how the Panch Mahabhoots are formed.

So, this is the Lok above it. If you want to understand it through Sankhya Darshan, the state of Mahat, where I was talking about cosmic intelligence, that is the Tap Lok. Now, we will move one level higher to Satya Lok, which is part of Brahm Lok.

Four types of divine beings

Satya Lok is primarily known as Brahm Lok. If you refer to the Vyasa Bhashya, it also mentions that there are four types of divine beings here. These beings are Achyut, Shuddha Nivas, Satyabha, and Sangyan Sangin. We are now talking about the highest level of consciousness. These beings do exist, but they are unformed, expressionless. They exist like the primordial nature, as described in Sankhya Darshan.

There are free videos available on Sankhya Darshan on YouTube. If you want to understand more, you can watch them there. We have talked about primordial nature, which remains latent. But it is the cause of everything. Just like when you want to do something, a thought first arises in your mind. Before you start acting, the thought exists, but it has not yet manifested in physical reality. The thought is without form, but once you begin, it becomes expressed and takes form.

This state in Satya Lok is the reason for everything. Satya Lok is the reason for this universe. That is why it is called Brahm Lok. In this state, Brahmaji is seated and creating the universe, but they are also unformed. These beings are not yet expressed; they remain in the form of an abstract idea. The reason for any work is not expressed at first, it remains abstract.

Creator and the Creation.

In this world, there is no difference between the creator and the creation. The creator is the creation, and the creation is the creator. This is the highest level of consciousness, which is called Brahm Lok of 14 lokas in hinduism in the Puranas.

Thus, we have understood all the vertical Lokas above Bhu Lok, specifically Swar Lok. We learn more about these in the Vedic texts. The Puranas also mention Adho Lok, which refers to seven Lokas below Bhu Lok, where creation does not exist and consciousness is diminishing.

Conclusion

Friends, from what I have shared with you so far, I hope you now have an understanding of how people describe different dimensions. Through philosophy and science, we have come to realize that our universe consists of many dimensions, of which we are just a subset. Our physical reality, the D or D space world, is just a subset of the vast universe, which contains many higher dimensions.

Know more about Darshans

As I mentioned earlier, if you are interested in the universe and want to understand it from a scientific perspective, I recommend listening to the audiobook Decoding Universe on KUKU FM. It will provide you with much insight. Additionally, if you use the HYPER coupon code, you will get benefits.

If you are interested in learning the Sanskrit language or studying the Darshans I talked about, you can take the free master classes on the Shikshanam App. If you find the subject fascinating, after the free master classes, you can enroll in the detailed courses. These courses explain each Sutra thoroughly with notes and quizzes. I’ve made sure to explain the subject very well.

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