Higher Realms
God Realm:
A blissful, ethereal state in which one is supremely contented but oblivious to the suffering of others.
Jealous God Realm:
Fueled by ego and aggression, jealous or warring gods (asuras) are always striving to rise in power and position.
Human Realm:
Passionate and perceptive, human beings experience many states of mind and have the most opportunity to free themselves from the cycle of death and rebirth (samsara).
Lower Realms
Animal Realm:
A life of ignorant complacency and dullness, in which one doesn’t look beyond avoiding pain and seeking comfort.
Hungry Ghost Realm:
Incalculably frustrated by desires they cannot fulfill, hungry ghosts (pretas) are depicted with big bellies and tiny mouths.
Hell Realm:
A claustrophobic place of extreme hot or cold in which you can’t escape the torment of your own intense anger and hate.
