An Analytical Study of the View on Heaven in Buddhism

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the heaven in Theravada sect, 2) study the heaven in Mahayana sect, and 3) analyze the view of heaven in Buddhism. This is documentary research, i.e., survey and collect document data from primary documents, namely the Tipitaka, and secondary academic documents.

The research results found that 1) heaven in Theravada sect is a place or land with excellent emotions. It can be divided into 6 levels: Catumaharajika, Davadungsa, Yama, Dusit, Nimanarati, and Paranimitavasavatti. These 6 heavens are the places where deities who have made merit while human beings live. When they are born, they immediately remain young. There is no aging like in human cities. The mansions are places of residence. They are exquisitely beautiful and have different sizes. There is divine food, servants, and divine clothing. Daily activities include enjoying the gardens and socializing with the deities. 2. Heaven in Mahayana sect believes in Sukhavati where is a land of happiness. In addition, it is the heaven of Amitabha Buddha. Sukhavati is the name of heaven where is located in the west. It is a land of great happiness and the residence of Amitabha Buddha, the one with infinite radiance. 3. Analysis of the view of heaven in Buddhism is divided into 3 parts: (1) analysis of the meaning of heaven, (2) analysis of the characteristics of heaven, and (3) analysis of the practice to be born in heaven.