Realms as States of Consciousness Early texts are not explicit about how these realms are to be interpreted; however, they can be seen as states of consciousness. The realm of
deva symbolising the purer and spiritual stages of consciousness, humans relating to the abilities of reason and logic, animals and hunger ghosts especially can be seen as an image of instinct and
Naraka would represent the accumulated
dukkha from past actions. Humans can therefore easily move through different stages throughout their lives. This can also be understood through the nature of
karma. Karma is considered an action with an intention behind it. This intention, produced by the mentality, can either be wholesome or unwholesome. These mental states then translate to a karma that is accumulated and connected to a certain realm.
Karmic Workings of the States of Consciousness The ten unwholesome actions (kamma-patha) that produce bad karma are the three bodily actions (murder, stealing, sexual misconduct), four vocal actions (lying, divisive speech, hurtful speech, frivolous speech) and three mental actions (avarice, ill-will, wrong views). The mental states that promote these actions are: strong greed, hatred and delusion. The ten wholesome actions that are inspired by generosity (
dana), ethical conduct (
sila) and meditation (
bhavana). Mental states that support these actions are: desirelessness, friendliness and wisdom.
Interpretation of the Saddharmasmṛtyupasthānasūtra The
Saddharmasmṛtyupasthānasūtra ("Sutra of the Remembrance of the True Law") interprets the different realms, stating that the deva world is a human ideal of pleasure based upon ignorance which is transitory and decays. This causes the
deva eventual suffering. Being situated in the human world exposes one to disease, impurities, exposure to impermanence and a non-self
(anātman). The animal realm is a place for those who have tormented animals and will receive the same treatment. The asura are in this realm as well and wage war against the deva. The preta realm is created by greed and ignorance of humans. It is the place for those who have refused offerings and are controlled by avarice. The hells (
naraka) represent the dark labyrinths of the mind entrenched by ignorance and self-deceit. The grotesque hell imagery is used in order to initiate the individual on the path of enlightenment and to identify within the hell of their own mind the faceless past existences that are in constant suffering.
Deva Realm While it might be tempting to aspire a rebirth within the world of gods or celestial beings, the
deva are so full of joy in this realm that they are unable to understand the teaching about the permanent
dukkha in
samsara. Nirvana In regards to Nirvana the Six Paths do not constitute a hierarchy that leads to it. Gethin argues that it can only be achieved through the human and the deva realm. == See also ==