Significance of Bhurloka
Bhurloka, in Vaishnavism, refers to the earthly realm or material world within Hindu cosmology. It signifies the physical existence created from the Supreme Man's feet, where humans and mortal beings reside. Considered the first of the seven realms established by Brahma, Bhurloka encompasses everything traversable by foot and serves as the site of spiritual practices for certain ascetics in Vedanta. Overall, it is a significant component in the larger cosmological structure described in religious texts.
Synonyms: Earth, Physical world, Material world
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Bhurloka'
Bhurloka in Hinduism represents the earthly realm, where mortal beings reside, and encompasses the physical world. It is viewed as the first of seven realms, integral to cosmic order and governed by divine principles and responsibilities.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The earthly realm where humans live, as part of the larger cosmological structure detailed in the text.[1] (2) The earthly realm where the Divine Mother is said to endure.[2] (3) The corporeal world, or earth, that exists beneath the various heavenly realms.[3]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Traditionally considered to be the realm of the earth.[4]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The earthly realm where the material existence and interactions take place, created by Brahma.[5]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) A realm situated in the feet of the bird Om, representing the physical world.[6] (2) The earthly realm attained by specific classes of ascetics through their spiritual practices.[7]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The term refers to one of the realms of existence in Hindu cosmology, indicating the earthly realm or the material world.[8]
The concept of Bhurloka in local and regional sources
Bhurloka, meaning "earthly world," is highlighted in the text as a term that some commentators equate with bhugola, indicating its significance in regional interpretations of cosmology among scholars like Shridharasvamin and others.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This term means "earthly world," and is used as a gloss for bhugola by some commentators, such as Shridharasvamin, Viraraghava, Giridhara Lala, and Bhagavatprasadacarya.[9]