loka

I

In Hinduism, the universe or any particular division of it.

The most common division of the universe is the tri-loka, or three worlds (heaven, earth, and atmosphere, or heaven, world, and netherworld), each of which is divided into seven regions. Sometimes, instead of the tri-loka, 14 worlds are envisioned, seven above the earth and seven below. Whatever the division, it illustrates the basic Hindu concept of hierarchically ordered worlds.

II

(as used in expressions)

arupa loka

brahma loka

rupa loka

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▪ Hinduism

Sanskrit“world”

      in the cosmography of Hinduism, the universe or any particular division of it. The most common division of the universe is the tri-loka, or three worlds (heaven, earth, atmosphere; later, heaven, world, netherworld), each of which is divided into seven regions. Sometimes 14 worlds are enumerated: 7 above earth and 7 below. The various divisions illustrate the Hindu concept of innumerable hierarchically ordered worlds. Lokas are often associated with particular divinities, a linkage that is also found in Buddhism, with the deities replaced by buddhas or bodhisattvas.

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