Significance of Immaterial Sphere
The Immaterial Sphere, according to Theravada, is a realm of existence that transcends material forms and is characterized by various types of consciousness. It encompasses pure awareness and mental states, focusing on experiences that arise through meditation rather than physical observation. This sphere is associated with immaterial phenomena and contributes to the classification of consciousness that influences rebirth, highlighting the significance of mental experiences beyond physical existence.
Synonyms: Ethereal plane, Spiritual world
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Buddhist concept of 'Immaterial Sphere'
The Immaterial Sphere in Buddhism denotes a realm transcending physical existence and focuses on consciousness, mental phenomena, and pure awareness. It influences rebirth and is experienced primarily through meditation, reflecting various categorizations of immaterial consciousness.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A classification related to consciousness that transcends physical existence; includes types of consciousness connected to immaterial experiences, having specific categorizations.[1] (2) The realm of existence associated with mental phenomena that cannot be physically observed but can be experienced through meditative practices.[2] (3) A realm of existence beyond material forms, with different resultant consciousness types.[3] (4) A category of existence and consciousness that transcends physical form, focusing instead on pure awareness and mental states.[4] (5) A realm of existence beyond materiality, influencing rebirth without physical forms.[5]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A realm beyond physical existence, characterized by the presence of wholesome volitions.[6]