Chart explanation: Brahma-saàhitä 5.43 goloka-nämni nija-dhämni tale ca tasya devi maheça-hari-dhämasu teñu teñu te te prabhäva-nicayä vihitäç ca yena govindam ädi-puruñaà tam ahaà bhajämi Lowest of all is located Devé-dhäma [mundane world], next above it is Maheça-dhäma [abode of Maheça]; above Maheça-dhäma is placed Hari-dhäma [abode of Hari] and above them all is located Kåñëa's own realm named Goloka. I adore the primeval Lord Govinda, who has allotted their respective authorities to the rulers of those graded realms. The realm of Goloka stands highest above all others. Brahmä looking up to the higher position of Goloka is speaking of the other realms from the point of view of his own realm: the first in order is this mundane world called Devé-dhäma consisting of the fourteen worlds, viz., Satyaloka, etc.; next above Devé-dhäma is located Çiva-dhäma one portion of which, called Mahäkäla-dhäma, is enveloped in darkness; interpenetrating this portion of Çiva-dhäma there shines the Sadäçivaloka, full of great light. Above the same appears Hari-dhäma or the transcendental Vaikuëöhaloka. The potency of Devé-dhäma, in the form of the extension of Mäyä, and that of Çivaloka, consisting of time, space and matter, are the potency of the separated particles pervaded by the penumbral reflection of the subjective portion of the Divinity. But Hari-dhäma is ever resplendent with transcendental majesty and the great splendor of all-sweetness predominates over all 1 other majesties in Goloka. The Supreme Lord Govinda by his own direct and indirect power has constituted those respective potencies of those realms. 1. 2. 3. 4. Kåñëaloka or Goloka Våndävana - Spiritual world, the abode of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Kåñëa. Brahma-saàhitä 5.2 – [The spiritual place of transcendental pastimes of Kåñëa is portrayed in the second verse.] The superexcellent station of Kåñëa, which is known as Gokula, has thousands of petals and a corolla like that of a lotus sprouted from a part of His infinitary aspect, the whorl of the leaves being the actual abode of Kåñëa. Brahma-saàhitä 5.3 - The whorl of that transcendental lotus is the realm wherein dwells Kåñëa. It is a hexagonal figure, the abode of the indwelling predominated and predominating aspect of the Absolute. Like a diamond the central supporting figure of self-luminous Kåñëa stands as the transcendental source of all potencies. The holy name consisting of eighteen transcendental letters is manifested in a hexagonal figure with sixfold divisions. Brahma-saàhitä 5.4 - The whorl of that eternal realm Gokula is the hexagonal abode of Kåñëa. Its petals are the abodes of gopés who are part and parcel of Kåñëa to whom they are most lovingly devoted and are similar in essence. The petals shine beautifully like so many walls. The extended leaves of that lotus are the gardenlike dhäma, i.e. spiritual abode of Çré Rädhikä, the most beloved of Kåñëa. It also appears from this statement that the topmost region in the Krishnaloka, celebrated as Vrindaban-Gokul, is also famous 2 as Goloka Vrindaban in the spiritual sky. So in the Brahma Samhita also the description is given that the place Gokula resembles a lotus flower with one thousand petals and that is the highest region of the Kingdom of God. Within that region, a place encircled by four curved lines is called "Swetadwipa" In that Swetadwipa there is elaborate arrangement for Shri Krishna's residence along with eternal associates such as NandaYasoda and others. The nature of that Swetadwipa is described as below:—that transcendental place is maintained (?) by Shri Baladeva who is the original whole of Shesha or Ananta. In the Tantras also the same description is ratified by its statement that the place where Shri Anantadeva plenary portion of Valadeva, lives and exists that place is called the kingdom of God. Boundary of Gokula is also described. Outside the transcendental place, there is a quadrangular place which is called Swetadwipa. And the innermost place within the quadrangular place, is called Vrindabandham. Only the outskirts of Vrindaban is called Swetadwipa which is also known as Goloka. Vaikuntha is also called Brahmaloka in the sense that constitutionally there is no difference between them but there is difference in Variegatedness as much there is difference between the Sun dial and the Sun-rays. In the Narada Pancharatra there is a statement like this in connection with the story of Bijoya. It is said there that on the topmost part of the spiritual sky there is a place called Goloka where Govinda, Who is the Predominator over the Gopis and who is the Principal Deity of Gokula—does always enjoy Himself in that region. From all the above mentioned revealed scriptures, it is now concluded that the abode of Krishna is situated on the highest 3 5. 6. and topmost part of the spiritual sky which is also far beyond and above the material cosmos. And the pastimes of Krishna there in transcendental varieties for enjoyment are divided into three and according to such variegatedness of His pastimes, the places where He does so are called (1) Dwarka, (2) Mathura and 3 Gokula respectively. And such places on the earth are non different from those original places. Like the existence of a facsimile of Vaikuntha within the universe, these holy places of Dwarka, Mathura and Gokula are also facsimiles of the original ones situated in the transcendental world.>>> Ref. VedaBase => EA 4: Caitanya-caritämåta, Ädi-lélä, Chapter 5 [Handwritten by Srila Prabhupada] Caitanya-caritämåta Ädi 5.16 tähära upari-bhäge ‘kåñëa-loka’-khyäti dvärakä-mathurä-gokula—tri-vidhatve sthiti In the highest region of that spiritual sky is the spiritual planet called Kåñëaloka. It has three divisions—Dvärakä, Mathurä and Gokula. Ädi 5.16 Brahma-saàhitä 5.5 - [The surrounding external plane of Gokula is described in this verse.] There is a mysterious quadrangular place named Çvetadvépa surrounding the outskirts of Gokula. Çvetadvépa is divided into four parts on all sides. The abode of Väsudeva, Saìkarñaëa, Pradyumna and Aniruddha are separately located in each of these four parts. These four divided abodes are enveloped by the fourfold human requirements such as piety, wealth, passion and liberation, as also by the four Vedas, viz., Åg, Säma, Yajur and Atharva, which deal with the mantra and which are the bases of achievements of the fourfold 4 shine on all sides. They flood the land with their milk. The associates of the hues of blue. 8. Padma. but in Goloka time has no dominance. The eight directions are decorated with the eight jewels of Mahäpadma. Kunda. all events are pervaded by the control of time.mundane requirements. 5 . Kacchapa. but never manifest are any of the material effects of time—birth. change. yellow. The cows of Goloka are known as surabhi and käma-dhenu. In the material world. Sequences of events may appear for the pleasure of Kåñëa and His devotees in their pastimes. There are ten protectors [dik-pälas] of the ten directions in the form of mantra. destruction. not only because they are so few but also because they generally prefer to remain in seclusion to avoid materialistic association and to freely relish Kåñëa consciousness. unknown to most people. fear. Ten tridents are fixed in the ten directions. and they are rarely seen. etc. In this universe only a few rare saints know that highest Çvetadvépa. but it is a different place from the Çvetadvépa found within the Ocean of Milk in the material universe. including the zenith and nadir. And absent from Goloka is the passing of time. red and white and the extraordinary potencies bearing the names of Vimala. and Néla. Çaìkha. 7.. Thus Goloka is a very secret place. Makara. Mukunda. from the smallest fraction of a second to the ultimate length of Brahmä’s life. Goloka is called Çvetadvépa. a shelter. with milk everywhere. Çré Goloka is called çveta (“white”) because it is supremely pure and also because it is flooded by the white milk of Kåñëa’s cows. The Supreme Person also appears in the Çvetadvépa of the Milk Ocean.BB 3. the land where Nanda Mahäräja’s cows graze and ever drench the ground with their milk. He is not the only male consort. And within that region is Çré Våndävana. but that ocean is not created from cow’s milk. (Jiva Gosvami – Gopala campu) 6 . and His flute is not visible as His constant companion. cows that fulfil all desires.7. It is a dvépa (“island”) not only in the sense of being a place separate from all others but also because it is a secluded place. And in Goloka milk flows so abundantly that the whole Goloka world seems to be an island floating in the middle of an ocean of milk. Goloka is shaped like a round island. an ocean of milk like a great moat surrounding Goloka on all sides. rivers that join to become an ocean. Çré Mathurä in the spiritual world is like the Milk Ocean. These cows are kamadhenu cows. the Çvetadvépa above Vaikuëöha. All these special features can be seen only in Goloka. the white island Çvetadvépa. Predominated by cows.94-95 10. . bordered by the shores of the river Yamunä. but there not all the women are His goddesses of fortune. the residence of exalted pure souls such as Nanda Mahäräja. for from them flows an ocean of milk. the surabhi cows become completely enchanted.9. Çvetadvépa in the material universe is surrounded by an ocean of milk. The cows then make many great rivers of fragrant milk flow from the great mountains of their udders. Like Mathurä-maëòala on earth. When Lord Krsna plays the flute. There they bear other names. Visvaksena and other associates of the Lord at Dvaraka are present in Gokula as Bhadrasena and others. When Lord Krsna's abode of Gokula is worshipped. then the ocean of milk at Svetadvipa is also worshipped automatically. There is practically no difference between Gokula and Goloka save that this what exists in the shape of Goloka in the upper region is the same as Gokula on the mundane plane when Kåñëa showed His various activity there. so they are both present in Gokula. the Ganges being the famous Manasa-ganga on Govardhana Hill. 7 . such as the name Radha.11. The conch-disc. Kåñëa plays exactly the same part in Goloka as He exhibits on the mundane plane of Gokula. are to be found in Goloka. and club that are auspicious markings on the Lord's feet. As the Ganges and Yamuna are both present in Dvaraka. disc. in other words. -purport Bs 5. Gokula is also known by the name Svetadvipa. that is. and club the Lord carries in Dvaraka are present in Gokula as the conch.56 12. The difference between the two planes lies only in their locations as high and low. 13. Because in Gokula a great flood of milk flows from many millions of cows. The sum and substance of it is that all the variegatedness of this mundane world and much more variety over and above the mundane. Rukmini and the other associates of the Lord at Dvaraka are also present in Gokula. Skanda. Because this idea is completely untrue. and also in the GovindaVrndavana Tantra. This is described in the Padma. the gopis believe they are others wives and Krsna is their paramour. the gopis are the best. Among the Laksmis. but in another sense there is a distinction. Among the gopis. Bewildered by Yogamaya. they are bewildered. There the word means “the gopis”. the Laksmis are the best. Therefore Goloka’s glory is without limit. Lord Brahma uses the word “Sri” in its special sense. These many Sris are the gopis. Of all women. In the other Vaikuntha realms there is only one Goddess Sri (Laksmi). and other Puranas. What girl is beautiful and playful like Radha? (Jiva Goswami – Gopala campu) 17. who are described in the great mantra “gopijana-vallabhaya svaha. but in Goloka there are many Sris. Varaha. The use here of the word “sri” (goddess of fortune) and “parama purusa” (the Supreme Personality of Godhead) prove that the idea is untrue. What more need be said? It is said: (Jiva Goswami –Gopala campu) 16.14.” (Jiva Goswami – Gopala campu) 15. Radha is the best. Matsya. (Jiva Gosvami –Gopala campu) 8 . The words “Sri” and “gopi” are like the words “kuru” and “pandava”. In one sense they are not different. The most exalted Sri is Goddess Radha. Her dress is the color of peacock feathers. Her father’s name is Biçoka. Her mother’s name is Çäradé. enjoy pastimes. She is of a sharp and contrary nature. Her complexion is beautiful bright yellow (gorocana). Her nature is marginal. Kalahaàsé and Kalapiné belong to her group. Gopis sakhés. Rätékelé. her other name is Anurädhä. Her socalled husband is Bhairäva. Lord Krsna enjoys pastimes. Her residence is situated on the northern-side of the lotus shaped Yogapiöha consisting of eight petals. which resembles the colour of lightning. The petals of the Goloka lotus are many forests where the gopis. (Jiva Gosvami –Gopala campu) 19. Subhadrä. Her services include offering betel nuts and camphor. 9 . Her so-called husband is Bahika. her complexion is cream-colored with a tinge of red. “In those abodes built with spiritual gems.. She is twenty-seven days older than Rädhikä. Bhadrarekhikä. Her father’s name is Pawan. She was born the same time as Rädhikä. Her dress is bedecked with stars. Her mother’s name is Dakñiëä. surrounded by millions of purpose trees. Her service is to decorate Rädhä and Kåñëa with cloths and 18. Sumukhé. Viçäkhä: (Räya Rämänanda in gaura-lélä). Rätnaprabhä.” (Jiva Gosvami –Gopala campu) 20. who are all expansions of the goddess of fortune. reside. nitya-sakhés. Dhaniñöhä. gopas who think Krsna is their only treasure. She is a niece of Jaöilä. In the filament of the lotus flower of Goloka are the abodes where the kind gopas. präëa-sakhés priyä-sakhés and paramapreñöha-sakhés Lalitä: (Çvarüpa Dämodara in gaura-lélä). She resides in Lalitänanda Kuïja. She is twenty-six days younger than Rädhäräëé. Chandralekhä. She has a gentle nature. Kuïjaré. situated on the eastern part of the Yogapiöha. her father’s name is Sagar. and Madanalasä are the sakhés that belong to her group. Chiträ: (Govindänanda in gaura-lélä). Chapalä. and Subänanä belong to her group. She resides in wonderful Chitränanda Kuïja. Chitralekhä. she has a beautiful saffron complexion. She has a contrary nature. Modané. She is one day younger than Rädhäräëé. Her dress is like the Casa bird. Haréëé. Mälaté. her father’s name is Arama. Surabi. who is the cousin of King Våñabhänu. Çourasené. She is three days younger than Rädhäräëé. Her service is to offer honey. Tilakiné. Her mother’s name is Belä. Her so-called husband is Durbala. She resides in cloud-colored Viçäkhänanda Kuïja on the northern side of Yogapiöha. Her service is offering jewels and the camara. Vichitraìgé. Räsalikä. Rasatuìgä. Nagaré.ornaments. her dress is like pomegranate flowers. Her service is to offer garlands of cloves to Rädhä and Kåñëa. Her socalled husband is Chandakña. She resides in Kämalatä Kuïja situated on the 10 . Indurekhä: (Basu Rämänanda in gaura-lélä). Tuìgabhadrä. Raìgawaté. Her father’s name is Chatura. Her dress is crystalline in color. She resides in golden-colored Purëedra Kuïja on the south-eastern petal of the Yogapiöha. Her so-called husband is Pithra. and Nagabelikä belong to her group. Mädhavé. Sugandhikä. Her mother’s name is Vatikä. her complexion is like the champaka flower. Kamanagaré. her complexion is of greenish yellow. Her nature is mild and gentle. Champakalatä: (Çivänanda Sen in gaura-lélä). Her mother’s name is Charbikä. Ramilä. Sumaìgalä. Chandralatikä. Her service is offering water. Her so-called husband is Vakrekñana. Her service is singing and dancing. and Baraëgadä sakhés belong to her group. She resides in yellow-colored Sudevé-kuïja situated on the northwestern petals of the Yogapiöha. Charukabarä. her father’s name is Raìga-sara. Mäïjalé. The following sakhés belong to her group: Kälakaëöhé. Her father’s name is Pauñkara. Her so-called husband is Valish. Guëachuòä. Her so-called husband is the younger brother of Vakrekñana. 11 . Her dress is the color of hibiscus flower. Tuìgävidyä: (Vakreçvara Paëòita in gaura-lélä). Madhurä. her complexion is like that of a lotus flower. She resides in orange colored Tuìgavidyä-kuïja situated on the western petal of Yogapiöha. Madhurekñanä. She dresses in yellow garments. Çaçikalä. Kämalatikä and Prema-maïjäré. Her nature is most liberal. Maëikuëdalä. She is seventeen days younger than Rädhäräné. Her nature is mediumcontrary. Indirä. the twin sister of Raìgadevé. She resides in bluish Raìgadevé-kuïja situated on the south-western petal of the Yogapiöha. Sukeçé. Tanumadhyä. Sumadhyä. Sucharitä. and Sumandirä. Maïjumedhä.southern petal of the Yogapiöha. Kamalä. Her mother’s name is Medhä. her complexion is like kuìkuma mixed with camphor and sandalwood. Kandarpä Sundaré. She has a sharp. Sudevé: (Vasudeva Ghosh in gaura-lélä). Chandrikä. Her service is offering sandalwood pulp. She is five days younger than Rädhäräëé. Her mother’s name is Karuëä. Sumadhurä. Rangadevé: (Govinda Gosh in gaura-lélä). Her complexion and dress is the same as Raìgadevé. Madhusyandä. In her group are: Kuruìgakñé. Kaëdukakñé. Käveré. contrary nature. Rati maïjaré (Rasa maïjaré): (Çréla Raghunätha däsa Gosvämé in gaura-lélä). 21. Lavanga maïjaré: (Çréla Sanätana Gosvämé in gaura-lélä). Her dress is bedecked with stars. Another name is Lélä Maïjaré. Çré Rüpa maïjaré: (Çréla Rüpa Gosvämé in gaura-lélä). Her dress is the color of a peacock feather. The maïjarés are young and innocent girls. They are the exclusive maidservants of Çrématé Rädhäräëé. young. and render personal service there. She resides in Lavaìga Kuïja. situated on the north of Lalitä Kuïja. another name is Tulasé Maïjaré. Manjuläli: (Çréla Lokanätha Gosvämé in gaura-lélä). Her service is massaging the feet of Rädhä and Kåñëa. Some people call her Bhänümaté Maïjaré. Harahérä. another name is Raté Maïjaré. She resides in Ratyämubujä Kuïja situtated on the south of Indurekhä Kuïja. Hara-kanté. Her service is dressing 12 . Mahähérä. The unique position of the maïjarés is that they are allowed to witness the intimate loving pastimes of Rädhä and Kåñëa in the inner chambers of the groves of Våndävana. Her dress is bright red. She resides in Rüpollasa Kuïja. Thus they relish the unparallel bliss of bhakti-rasa. her service is offering golden colored betel-nuts. or very tender”. Her complexion is like the flash of lightening. Her complexion resembles lightening. Their ages not more than that of a thirteen years old. situated on the east of Tuìgavidyä Kuïja.Maïjukuhé. to which the sakhés have no access. Descriptions of the Color and Dresses of the Maïjarés maïjaré means “bud. her complexion is beautiful bright yellow (gorocana). Her service is offering garlands of cloves. Her dress is bedecked with stars. and Manoharä sakhés belong to her group. her complexion is like molten gold. her complexion is like the campaka flower. From the centre of the lotus flower of Gokula came many raised and slightly jeweled petals connected by various paths. Her other name is Lélä Maïjaré. She resides in Kasturé-änanda Kuïja. She resides in Räsänanda Kuïja situated on the east of Chitra-kuïja. On this lotus flower of Goloka Våndävana are many petals known as "paträëi çriyäm". her complexion is like the golden pine flower. Kasturé maïjaré: (Çréla Kåñëadäsa Kaviraja Gosvämé in gaura-lilä). 23.Rädhä and Kåñëa. She resides in Lélänanda Kuïja situated on the north of Viçäkhä Kuïja. Where these petals join the whorl of the Goloka lotus flower. situated on the north of Sudevi Kuïja. Her service is painting. Her service is offering water to Rädhä and Kåñëa. Her dress is like the color of the hibiscus flower. Guna maïjaré: (Çréla Gopäla Bhaööa Gosvämé in gaura-lélä). Her dress is made of the features of swans. In the midst of these petals many cowherd villages are gloriously manifested. and the extensions of these petals are the places of the 22. the many gardens which are abodes of Çrématé Rädhäräëé and the gopés. Her dress is crystalline. She resides in Viläsänanda Kuïja. Her service is applying maskara on Rädhä and Kåñëa. the paths of Goloka are situated. Her service is offering sandalwood pulp. Räga-maïjaré (Räsa): (Çréla Raghunätha Bhaööa Gosvämé in gauralélä). She resides in Guëänanda Kuïja situated on the north-east of Champakalatä Kuïja. In this way Gokula is known. Her dress resembles the bees. 13 . her complexion is like pure gold. her complexion is like a flash of lightening. Viläsa maïjaré: (Çréla Jéva Gosvämé in gaura-lélä). situated on the west of Raìgadevé Kuïja. birds. and beasts there fill the people of Goloka with wonder. 30. What is the nectar of this world in comparison to that nectar? In Goloka all words are song. It is more beautiful and more glorious than any place in the fourteen worlds. The great beauty of its trees and plants and flowers always takes birth in the devotee’s heart. Streams of nectar flow everywhere from that lotus flower of Gokula. Those dances are very glorious and charming. pastimes 14 . Its banks studded with jewels. The king of the mountains is jewelsummit delightful Mount Govardhana 28. the land in Goloka is splendid to touch and splendid to see. the best of rivers flows in Gokula.cow-pastures of Goloka. In the south and west are bumblebee mountains that sip the stream of nectar. His pastimes. Furthermore. It is filled with cintamani jewels. In Goloka all water is nectar. In the Vamana Purana it is said: “Studded with jewels and glorious with mineral pigments. 25. Govardhana Hill is glorious in Gokula. the Yamuna. 26. What are the songs of this world in comparison to those songs? In Goloka all walking is the most graceful dance. By the power of the Lord’s unparalleled transcendental potency. (Sri Krsna sandarbha Anuccheda 106) 24. splendid like a great mirror. are like nectar poured into the ears. 27. Its palaces and buildings are all made of cintamini jewels.” 29. In this way the different parts of the lotus flower of Gokula Våndävana are described. That the sights and sounds of the different kinds of beautiful hills. Goloka is full of transcendental bliss. It is a great monsoon of splendour. Furthermore. the Yamuna. In these ways. some in nava-yauvana (new youth). The lotus flowers that grow in her waters are the eyes with which she gazes at Lord Krsna. Still. some in ardha-vardhakya (middle age). Her whirlpools are the ears with which hears about Krsna. Goloka is not at all like the material world. 31. In Goloka are none of the inevitable transformations that make the material worlds so horrible. are manifested in Goloka. Lord Krsna’s parents. enjoys pastimes in the northern and eastern terrace of the blissful land of Vraja.. brother. They do not grow older. Her fish are the nose with which she smells the fragrance of Lord Krsna. The Yamuna. as either water or land the Yamuna serves Lord Krsna. It is described in these words: 34. By the Lord’s potency are manifest there a sun. 35. They keep these ages eternally. which is also called by the name “Kalindi” (daughter of Mount Kalinda). friends. When Krsna does not play His flute. and other associates of different ages. seed. the Yamuna flows with waters like melted sapphires. or anything unpleasant. Yamuna . moon. and some in other ages. stunned in ecstasy. Her waves are the arms with 15 .” (Hayasirsa-pancaratra) 32. Please know that nothing there is made of matter. some in kaisora(childhood). becomes like the land paved with sapphires. (Jiva Gosvami –Gopala campu) 33. and other things very beautiful and charming. “There unpleasant things do not exist. Everything there is nectar. The fruits there have no skin. some in yauvana (youth).seeming like pastimes of the material world. When Krsna does play His flute. hardness. and stars. Santa rasa . Her waters are the servant with which she glorifies Lord Krsna. But. 40. fly in their airplanes. that place where mädhurya is the chief state is known by fortunate persons as Våndävana. And that place where audärya is eternally predominant is called Navadvépa in all the Vedas. In the sky of Goloka the most exalted demigods. Such sages are generally called mystic yogés. They are practically unaware of the transcendental pleasure derived from personal contact with the Supreme Godhead. (NOD) 37. that she serves Lord Krsna in these ways? 36. Audärya exists within mädhurya in fullness. 16 . and in most cases they are inclined to appreciate the spiritual pleasure of the impersonal feature of the Absolute Truth. and mädhurya exists within audärya in fullness.which she embraces Lord Krsna. Dasya rasa38. 39. sweetness and munificence. Her swans and cranes are the mouth with which she glorifies Lord Krsna. Some great sages have attained this neutral position by practicing austerity. What kind of goddess is Yamuna-devi. “That Kåñëaloka exists in two states of emotion. Rasa expands there in the form of mädhurya and audärya. There is no difference between Våndävana and Navadvépa. penance and meditation to control the senses. the demigods worshipped by the rulers of the planets. only the different manifestations of rasa makes them distinct.When one is actually able to maintain the transcendental position. his stage is called neutrality in devotional service. 239 . The entire area is known as Goloka-Çvetadvépa. Even so. the divine master of the 17 . the people in numberless millions of material universes and even in the Vaikuntha worlds yearn to go there.There the catur-vyuha expansions headed by Lord Vasudeva stand guard with Their armies.4. Of what use are petty human goals in Goloka? 41.Far from here (Vaikuëöha) lies Ayodhyä. 46. Båhad-bhägavatämåta 2. Again and again plunged in Goloka’s sweetness. Ah! What am I doing? I have rashly begun a description of Goloka. 44. (Jiva Gosvami – Gopala Campu) 45. What to speak of them. and the central part is known as Våndävana. the splendid city of Raghupati. Ayodhyä 47. which surrounds the outskirts of Gokula. Manjaris 43. even Goddess Laksmi yearns to go to Goloka. Accompanied by His friends and kinsmen. that spiritual world forcibly enters the intelligence: 42. Lord Krsna’s world of Goloka is beyond the material intelligence’s power of understanding. my heart yearns to go there. Brahma-saàhitä verses quoted in Text 54. I do not see how I will have the power to complete my description. These verses describe the quadrangular place named Çvetadvépa. When they hear of Goloka’s wonderful glories. Lord Krsna eternally enjoys glorious pastimes in Goloka. The external part of that quadrangle is known as Çvetadvépa. which is made of pure goodness. which contains all knowledge. and which is an ocean of bliss. which is splendid as countless millions of suns and fires. which is eternal. nor by electricity. which is immeasurable. which has no beginning or end.5. One who reaches it never returns to this material world. which is free from old-age. sleeping and deep sleep. which is free from material states beginning with wakefulness. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. which is the abode of Brahman. And beyond that shines the city of Dvärakä. in the spiritual sky. which is wonderfully glorious. which has no equal or superior.247-250 . These are the qualities of Lord Viñëu's supreme abode. which never decays. which is the abode of liberation. whose waters were manifest from the perspiration of the Personified Vedas. That abode of Lord Hari is not illuminated by the sun or moon. which is not touched by any of the periods of cosmic devastation.57-64) On the border of the material and spiritual worlds flows the auspicious Virajä river. which has a golden splendor. Even in hundreds and millions of Brahmä's days one cannot completely describe this eternal and faultless abode of Lord Viñëu 18 . which is three fourths of all existence.Padma Puräëa (Uttarakhaëòa 255. imperishable. which never withers. is the eternal. which is charming. dear to the divine master of the Yadus… Vaikuëöhaloka – Spiritual abode of Lord Viñëu 48. which brings spiritual bliss.Raghu dynasty. which is auspicious. which is splendid. which is the eternal spiritual reality. On the far shore of that river. unlimited spiritual world. 5. Vämana. Kumuda. It is surrounded by many walls colorful with gold and jewels. Kumudäkña. Puëòaréka.258 .252. Çaìkukarëa. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Uttarakhaëòa 256. surrounded by many vimänas and palaces.17-18 In the center is the Lord's beautiful palace enclosed by jewel walls.12-15 By gatekeepers headed by Cäëòa. 52.Padma Puräëa.20-21 In the center of that place is a beautiful and auspicious throne made of all the Vedas and surrounded by the eternal personified 49.5. 50.253 – 254 . Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. beautiful with great gates.9-12: Very fortunate great souls who serve the Lord's feet. attain Lord Viñëu's supreme abode. which gives the bliss of spiritual love. many jewel arches. which is filled with many cities.Padma Puräëa. Sumukha. it is protected.Padma Puräëa.Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. and by Kumuda and others.256 . and four great jeweled doors. and Supratiñöhita guard the directions in this city. Uttara-khaëòa 256. That is Lord Hari's abode of Vaikuëöha.5. Bhadra and Subhadra the southern gate. Uttarakhaëòa 256. Cäëòa and Pracaëòa guard the eastern gate. 19 . and decorated with splendid apsarä women everywhere. Jaya and Vijaya the western gate. airplanes and jewel palaces. O beautiful-faced Pärvaté. Uttara-khaëòa 256. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1.5. 51.251. who are filled with the nectar of loving service to feet of Çré's husband. Sarvanetra. and Dhätä and Vidhätä the northern gate.Padma Puräëa." In its midst is a splendid city glorified because it is not covered by illusion. Satyä. Uttara-khaëòa 256.283 . opulence. which is made of all the Vedas.Vedas and the deities of religion. and the potencies headed by Vimalä stay on the petals in the eight directions. Yogä.279-281 . 56. O beautiful Pärvaté. in that place the Supreme Personality of Godhead sits with the goddess of fortune. they please their husband. Uttara-khaëòa 256. Holding cämaras splendid as nectar moons. Mahä-Lakñmé. sun and moon. 53-54 Surrounded by the devotees headed by Ananta Çeña.Padma Puräëa. The Vedic hymns and all sacred mantras also stay in that holy place.Padma Puräëa. the infallible Lord. Kriyä. Çeça. and renunciation.5. General Viñvaksena and other eternally liberated 20 .5. and Içänä are the Lord's queens.47-50 The Supreme Lord eternally enjoys transcendental bliss in the company of His eternal companion.Padma Puräëa.259 . Bhü and Lélä stay at His sides. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. knowledge. in the eternal spiritual sky. Kürma.5.Padma Puräëa. O girl with the beautiful face. and which is known in the Småti-çästra as the yoga-péöha. 23-25 In the center of the throne reside the deities of fire. the master of the three Vedas. 55. and in the center of that flower is the Gäyatré mantra. Vimalä. Prähvé.260 ." 53. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1.5. 25-26 In the center is an eight-petalled lotus flower as brilliant as the rising sun. Uttara-khaëòa 256. Jïänä. 54. and Garuòa. Garuòa the king of birds. Utkarñiëé. Uttarakhaëòa 256. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Puruñottama. Hari. accompanied by Goddess Lakñmé and other associates. Upendra. Gajänana(Gaëeça). Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Govinda. Trivikrama. and Padmanidhi are manifest in the eight directions. Näräyaëa. Viñvaksena.5. beginning with Lord Keçava. are manifest in the eight directions and are counted in groups of three. Satya.) 59. and Kåñëa. beginning with Matsya and Kürma. the palaces of Lakñmé. Viñëu. Vämana.5.292 In the fourth part of the spiritual sky. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Rati. In the directions beginning with the southeast. Acyuta. 60. Çaìkhanidhi. 58. ten incarnations of the Lord. 57. Håñékeça. Sarasvaté.288-289 summarized from Padma Puräëa The first circle (ävaraëa) surrounding Supreme Lord consists of the catur-vyüha expansions headed by Lord Väsudeva. 24 Viñëu-expansions. Çrédhara. Väsudeva.(Keçava. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Pradyumna. Ananta. Nåsiàha. Madhusüdana.associates. Janärdana. and accompanied by Goddess Ramä.5. 61. Acyuta. are manifest in the ten directions.293 21 . Mädhava.5. Padmanäbha. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. Dämodara. beginning with the east. Saìkarñaëa. Adhokñaja.290 In the second part of the spiritual sky. Durgä.291 In the third part of the spiritual sky. in the eight directions.5. the Supreme Person enjoys with great opulence. and Känti respectively are situated. Aniruddha. Garuòa. club.7 . sword. 63. Maruts. the four Vedas. limitless. Other who are rulers(demigods) of the three heavenly realms of the material world.Kåñëa never consorts with His illusory energy. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. 62. and Viçvadevas are all eternal. being differentiated from the infinity of glories of the mundane universe appears as the indivisible. piety.I worship Govinda. Virajä or Käraëa Ocean – the abode of Mahä-viñëu. 22 . In the seventh part of the spiritual sky the devotees headed by Indra are manifest.) Brahman or Brahmajyoti – 64. truth.40 . disc.5. are not eternal. in which He engages by consorting with His own spiritual [cit] potency Ramä by casting His glance at the deluding energy in the shape of sending His time energy. beginning with the Åg Veda. marginal position between the spiritual and material worlds Brahma-saàhitä 5. (In the spiritual world the Sädhyas.294-295 In the sixth part of the spiritual sky the Lord's conch. When He intends to create the material world the amorous pastime. and mace are manifest. and sacrifice are manifest as before. Still her connection is not entirely cut off from the Absolute Truth. lotus. Çärìga bow. infinite. Savitré. is an auxiliary activity. the primeval Lord.In the fifth part of the spiritual sky. 65. Brahma-saàhitä 5. whose effulgence is the source of the nondifferentiated Brahman mentioned in the Upaniñads. ] Ramädevé. This masculine symbol is the subjective portion of divinity who functions as progenitor of the mundane world. the masculine symbol or manifested emblem of the Supreme Lord. The intercourse of these two brings forth the faculty of perverted cognition.8 . 23 . beloved consort of the Supreme Lord. the great lord of this mundane world [Maheçvara] Çambhu. This halo is the dim twilight reflection of the supreme eternal effulgence. She is Mäyä.[The secondary process of association with Mäyä is described. At creation there appears a divine halo of the nature of His own subjective portion [sväàça].. subject to the supreme regulatrix [niyati]. the limited. The divine plenary portion of Kåñëa creates the mundane world.12 The same Mahä-Viñëu is spoken of by the name of "Näräyaëa" in this mundane world. 67. the reflection of the seed of the procreative desire of the Supreme Lord. viz. the symbol of mundane feminine productivity. nonabsolute [aparä] potency.The person embodying the material causal principle. From that eternal person has sprung the vast expanse of water of the spiritual Causal Ocean. 68. The subjective portion of Saìkarñaëa who abides in paravyoma. Brahma-saàhitä 5.10 .Brahma-saàhitä 5. The Lord of the world Mahä-Viñëu is manifest in him by His subjective portion in the form of His glance. Brahma-saàhitä 5. in the form of the male generating organ. This halo is divine Çambhu. is joined to his female consort the limited energy [Mäyä] as the efficient causal principle. the spiritual [cit] potency. the above supreme puruña with thousands of 66. The conceiving potency in regard to mundane creation makes her appearance out of the supreme regulatrix. is the regulatrix of all entities. Impersonalists say that Brahman is without variegatedness and without differentiation.when the cause and effect are not clearly manifested (avyakta). The Lord points out material nature in its subtle stage.13 . These sperms are covered with five great elements.The unmanifested eternal combination of the three modes is the cause of the manifest state and is called pradhäna. undifferentiated sum total of all material elements. 69. but actually the Brahman stage is not pradhäna. The aggregate elements. the five subtle elements. Brahma-saàhitä 5.subjective portions. Çrémad-Bhägavatam 3. Pradhäna . and that stage of material nature is called pradhäna. When the total material elements are manifested by the interaction of the three modes of material nature. 24 . It is called prakåti when in the manifested stage of existence. are known as the pradhäna. the four internal senses. namely the five gross elements.The unmanifested modes of material nature 70. One may say that pradhäna is the Brahman stage. which is called pradhäna. the manifestation is called prakåti. 71.26.10-11 . one can understand that the total material elements are contained therein. are born as so many golden sperms. reposes in the state of divine sleep [yoganidrä] in the waters of the spiritual Causal Ocean. and He analyzes this pradhäna. The explanation of pradhäna and prakåti is that pradhäna is the subtle.The spiritual seeds of Saìkarñaëa existing in the pores of skin of Mahä-Viñëu. Although they are undifferentiated. the five senses for gathering knowledge and the five outward organs of action. the reaction of the total elements does not take place. who is known as Sadäçiva and Çambhu. 73. One adjective used in this connection is nitya. creation and annihilation. The voidness philosophy is simply nirvana. Nor is it the jéva. but actually it is a material stand whereas impersonal monism is transcendental to material manifestation and voidness. Therefore. Laghu-bhägavatämåta 1. and that stage of material nature is called pradhäna. Therefore. or absence of material manifestation.Pradhäna is distinct from Brahman because in Brahman there is no existence of the material modes of nature. is manifest in the northeast part of Vaikuëöhaloka. which indicates eternality. (This is the place where 25 . the conception of the brahmajyoti is more advanced realization than conception of nirvana. because the designations of the living entities are not eternal. The marginal position of voidness between brahmajyoti and the material world manifestation is the destination of the Buddhist philosophers. conditioned living entities. the voidness philosophy is worse than impersonalist philosophy. 72. the reaction of the total elements does not take place. The actual explanation of pradhäna.5. however. Pradhäna is not the time element because in the time element there are actions and reactions. Therefore the condition of material nature immediately previous to its manifestation is called pradhäna. or designated. is given here: when the cause and effect are not clearly manifested (avyakta). or marginal potency of living entities.298 Lord Çiva. One may argue that the mahat-tattva is also different from pradhäna because in the mahat-tattva there are manifestations. Maheça-dhäma – abode of Lord Çiva. 44 . Sadäçivaloka is again depicted south of Vaikuëöhaloka. Brahma-saàhitä 5. Devé-dhäma – Material World.96 75. is enveloped in darkness. BB 1.The external potency Mäyä who is of the nature of the shadow of the cit potency.Thereupon Çambhu. the efficient mundane causal principle. preserving and destroying agency of this mundane world.) 74. Brahma-saàhitä 5. Above the same appears Hari-dhäma or the transcendental Vaikuëöhaloka. lord of pradhäna embodying the substantive principle of all material entities.Virajä is found and where the creation of material world takes place. consummates his intercourse with Mäyä.10 (purport) . the dim reflection of the Supreme Lord's own divine glance. who is the same as Rudra.Next above Devé-dhäma is located Çiva-dhäma one portion of which. interpenetrating this portion of Çiva-dhäma there shines the Sadäçivaloka. as well as Virajä – for all practical reasons. full of great light. 26 . That world is attained by the best of Lord Çiva’s devotees—the ones who understand him to be nondifferent from Çré Kåñëa— not the Çaivites who are karmés or jïänés or who worship Lord Çiva as an independent supreme controller. but as we are limited by the dimension of the chart.43 (purport) .2. I adore the primeval Lord Govinda in accordance with whose will Durgä conducts herself. the abode of Durgä 77. But he can do nothing independently of the energy of Mahä-Viñëu representing the direct spiritual power of Kåñëa. 76. the creating. is worshiped by all people as Durgä. Brahma-saàhitä 5. called Mahäkäladhäma. This universal egg.Çrémad-Bhägavatam 3. opulence. Its layers of water. Each covering was the subtle cause of the one before it. BB 2. of whose body the fourteen planetary systems are parts.15-16 81. Saìkarñaëa. the deity presiding over that covering and its wealth.52 . She worshiped Him with riches not to be obtained within the universe itself. fire. ego. Pradyumna. and Väsudeva. Each of them. ego and mahat-tattva increase in thickness one after another.12 80. air. air. and importance. “Next I reached the coverings of the universe.26. Sürya. BB 2. Each layer is ten times bigger than the previous one. 27 .3. more so than the one before. I saw Lords Matsya. each with one of the great manifested deities of those coverings woshiping Him with the element over which that deity presided—water. a greater worshiper. fire.3. was rich with enjoyments and opulences millions of times greater than on Brahmaloka. 79. There I saw the Supreme Lord in the form of a great boar being worshiped by the goddess Earth. BB 2.3.3.” BB 2. is called the manifestation of material energy.22 78. ether. or the universe in the shape of an egg. and the final outside layer is covered by pradhäna. while all the opulences of the universe whirled within every pore on His body. sky.20-21 82. The first covering I entered was that of earth. and had a greater object of worship. and greater sense gratification. Aniruddha. One after another. Within this egg is the universal form of Lord Hari. or mahat. As I arrived. The goddess at once approached me in her own superlative form. 83. because I am the bestower of liberation. then please be kind to me. “If you want to achieve your goal of liberation. the goddess Prakåti had just finished the worship of her Lord. it was dark blue. 86. the giver of devotion.3. “Or if you want devotion to Viñëu. I crossed over each of these coverings. still you should be kind and worship me. His sister. the effulgent Çré Mohiné-mürti. She sweetly told me. was worshiping the Supreme Lord in His female disguise as Mohiné-mürti. but still they respect Prakåti for other reasons. and attractive to the eyes and mind.” COMMENTARY Pure Vaiñëavas do not care for liberation.23 84. but in fact one achieves liberation when material nature chooses to release one. the Lord of that region. BB 2. COMMENTARY Mäyä. 85. and the embodiment of His energy. And like the goddess Earth and the other deities.As before. material nature. COMMENTARY One would normally think that to attain liberation one must reject material nature. which implies that Çré Mohinémürti is much more attractive than Mäyä herself. she asked me to stay. She is Lord’s Viñëu’s humble servant 28 . and finally came to the covering made of primordial nature. Composed of the most subtle form of ignorance. 87. She offered me gifts such as aëimä-siddhi and other great yogic powers. for I am His maidservant. said thus to Brahmä 88. The golden lotus with its stem is the abode of Brahmä representing Brahmaloka or Satyaloka. But he could see nothing but darkness in every direction. the divine masculine manifested halo.Then the goddess of learning Sarasvaté. 91. the first progenitor of beings. 90.24 .The same Mahä-Viñëu entered into each universe as His own separate subjective portions. they are the eternal universal soul MahäViñëu. Çambhu. embodied in the external elements.e. 92. possessing thousands of thousands of heads. Although Mäyä is not identical with Lord Viñëu’s internal energy (antaraìga-çakti). Brahmä.. and she helps Lord Viñëu’s devotees make progress in devotional service.14 .16 . Brahma-saàhitä 5. being guided by the divine potency tuned his mind to the act of creation under the impulse of previous impressions. Thus she is nondifferent from the original energy. Brahma-saàhitä 5. Brahma-saàhitä 5.23 . from the space between His two eyebrows. Brahma-saàhitä 5.On coming out of the lotus.15 . she is the expansion of that energy. from His right limb and. born as Subhadrä from the womb of Yaçodä. i. just as a person’s shadow is nondifferent from the person. the divine consort of the Supreme Lord. a golden lotus springs from His navel-pit. Brahma-saàhitä 5.and sister. The divine portions that entered into each universe are possessed of His majestic extension. 89.When Garbhodakaçäyé Viñëu wills to create this universe. Brahmä. 29 .The same Mahä-Viñëu created Viñëu from His left limb. Enlightened by the recollection of that Gäyatré. will assuredly fulfill your heart's desire. 97. The lotus-born Brahmä having received the Gäyatré.5 . (4) Nitala.28 . the essence of all Vedas. mother of the Vedas. (2) Atala.The fourteen worlds The upper planetary systems are (1) Bhü. andha-tämisra.27 . attained the status of the twice-born. (2) Bhuvar. (6) Mahätala and (7) Sutala. imparted. Among the upper planetary systems." 93. Brahma-saàhitä 5.. SB 3. viz.The gigantic universal form of the Personality of Godhead. (3) Svar. born from himself. tamas. Bhü. 30 . (6) Tapas and (7) Satya. (3) Vitala. Çrémad-Bhägavatam 2. "O Brahmä. moha and mahä-moha. by the divine sound of the flute of Çré Kåñëa. with this hymn. Brahmä created from his shadow the coverings of ignorance of the conditioned souls.25 . being made manifest. They are five in number and are called tämisra. Then he worshiped Çré Kåñëa. and the rest are called Martya. The entire universe is thus known as Triloka.e. (5) Janas. sprung from the flute-song of Çré Kåñëa.1. this mantra. Godhead Himself. 95. First of all. 94.20. Çrémad-Bhägavatam 2. i. embodying the three Vedas. through his eight ear-holes.18 96.Then Gäyatré.who saw nothing but gloom in all directions. kléà kåñëäya govindäya gopé-jana-vallabhäya svähä. Brahma-saàhitä 5. The lower planets as a whole are called Pätäla. Bhuvar and Svar constitute Svargaloka. having been initiated by the supreme primal preceptor. (4) Mahar. entered into the lotus mouth of Brahmä. (5) Talätala. Brahmä became acquainted with the expanse of the ocean of truth. The seven lower planetary systems are (1) Tala. within the body of the universal shell. His neck is the Mahar planets. In each and every universe. who is the father of all living beings and the master of all the demigod engineers engaged in the perfect design and working of the universal order.26 .1. and His forehead is the Tapas planetary system.1. Çrémad-Bhägavatam 2. is the head of He who has one thousand heads. and the two thighs are the Vitala and Atala planetary systems.Persons who have realized it have studied that the planets known as Pätäla constitute the bottoms of the feet of the universal Lord. His mouth is the Janas planets. The ankles are the Mahätala planets. the birthplace of Brahmä.The chest of the Original Personality of the gigantic form is the luminary planetary system. known as Satyaloka. is the subject for the viräö conception.The knees of the universal form are the planetary system of the name Sutala. and the topmost system is called 31 . 101. Within the stem of the lotus there are fourteen divisions of planetary systems. better planetary systems. 98. And from the navel of Garbhodakaçäyé Viñëu has sprung the stem of the lotus flower. Çrémad-Bhägavatam 2. The topmost planetary system. From His skin holes innumerable universes have sprung up. and the heels and the toes are the Rasätala planets. the puruña enters as the Garbhodakaçäyé Viñëu. He is lying within the half of the universe which is full with the water of His body. and His shanks constitute the Talätala planets.28 . The first puruña is the Käraëodakaçäyé Viñëu. The hips are Mahétala. (mahitala???) 100. Çrémad-Bhägavatam 2. Upwards there are other. 99.which is covered by sevenfold material elements. and outer space is the depression of His navel.1.27 . and the earthly planets are situated in the middle. 000 yojanas is Tapoloka. The sunshine does not reach these planets. or 1. Sutala. and 70. and below these are planets such as Yakñaloka and Rakñaloka.000 miles) below the sun.000 yojanas (80.000 yojanas is Maharloka. This chapter describes the planet Rähu. 103. Talätala. Mahätala. Rähu is situated below the sun and moon.000 yojanas is Janaloka.Brahmaloka or Satyaloka.000 yojanas. Vitala. It is between these two planets and the earth.000.000. and they are not afraid of death from any cause but the time factor.000 yojanas (209. Rasätala and Pätäla. SB 5. 32 .800. Cäraëas and Vidyädharas.000. 102.000 yojanas below the earth are the lower planetary systems-Atala. Demons and Rakñasas live in these lower planetary systems with their wives and children.800. Below these planets is the earth. but they are illuminated by jewels fixed upon the hoods of snakes. The Vaikuëöha planets begin 26.400. and above Tapoloka by 120. Below Rähu by another 1.000 miles.24 Summary the polestar. the Supreme Personality of Godhead.600. Because of these shining gems there is practically no darkness. Thus the distance from the sun to Satyaloka is 233. Those living in these planets do not become old or diseased. above Maharloka by 20.000 104. is 3.870. which is 10. Above Dhruvaloka by 10. Downwards from the earthly planetary system there are seven lower planetary systems inhabited by the asuras and similar other materialistic living beings.000. above Janaloka by 80. and it also describes Atala and the other lower planetary systems.000 yojanas above the sun.000.000 yojanas is Satyaloka. always engaged in sense gratification and not fearing their next births.000 yojanas are the planets of the Siddhas.200. 000 yojanas are below the earth. Sumeru.000.The hill known as Meru is fixed in the universe as a universal pivot.000 yojanas.800.000 yojanas. SB 5. Thus the Viñëu Puräëa describes that the covering of the universe is 260.miles) above Satyaloka.9 (1) Bhü. That ocean is 249. of which 16.000.000 yojanas are the seven lower planetary systems called Atala. (One yojana equals approximately eight miles.000 miles. The mountain's height is the same as the width of Jambüdvépa—or. and its seven islands are compared to the whorl of the lotus.000 yojanas deep. Below these lower planets by 30. Sumeru .080. 33 .) This king of mountains. The place known as Jambüdvépa is in the middle of that whorl. Sumeru Mountain is like the pericarp of the lotuslike Bhü-maëòala planetary system. Vitala. Thus the total diameter of the universe is approximately 500. Within Ilävåta-varña is Sumeru Mountain. Rasätala and Pätäla.000 yojanas at its foot. SB 5. Its width is estimated to be 32.000 miles) away from the sun. in other 105. Çeña Näga is lying on the Garbhodaka Ocean.16 Summary 106. and below the earth by 70.000. In Jambüdvépa there is a mountain known as Sumeru. Sutala.000 yojanas. which is made of solid gold. Talätala.Bhumandala . The height of this mountain is 84.000 yojanas (2.000 yojanas.000 yojanas at its summit and 16..23.000.Bhü-maëòala is like a lotus flower. Mahätala. is the support of the planet earth. which is made of gold. or 4.000. The distance from the sun to the earth is 100. along with all the other residents. 100. Mahodayä(Kuvera) and Yaçovaté (Isana).the exalted devotee Prahläda Mahäräja worships Lord Nåsiàha-deva 112.000 yojanas [800. and therefore the mountain's height above the earth is 84. Tejovaté (Agni) . Kimpuruña-varña. 34 . the elder brother of Lakñmaëa and dear husband of Sétädevé. 107.000 miles] are within the earth.000 yojanas [256. Çraddhävaté(Varuna). Gandhavaté(Vayu). constantly hear those glories with complete attention.000 yojanas [672.. (1) Jambudvipa: 109.000 yojanas [128. 16. Kuru-varña (north). and the other eight purés surround it in all directions. Ramyaka-varña. Brahmapuré is situated in the middle. the chief person in Kimpuruña-varña. The mountain's width is 32.the great devotee Hanumän is always engaged with the inhabitants of that land in devotional service to Lord Rämacandra.words. 108. Saàyamané(Yama).. Ilävåta-varña (middle) – Siva worships .000 miles].Lord Varaha is worshiped Hari-varña. Kåñëäìganä(Nrriti). Brahmapuri . and those of his assistants such as Indra and Agni are known as Amarävaté (Indra) . Of that.000 miles]. Hanumänjé and Arñöiñeëa. 111.000 yojanas at its base.Brahmä's township is known as Manovaté.000 miles] at its summit and 16.Lord Viñëu has assumed the form of Kürma mürti and is worshiped there by Aryamä.Lord Saìkarñaëa 110.Manu and all the inhabitants worship Matsyadeva Hiraëmaya-varña . The tract of land known as Bhärata-varña is the field of activities. Lord Håñékeça is the source of all encouragement. who appears as Kåñëa's son named Pradyumna. and the other eight varñas are for persons who are meant to enjoy heavenly comfort. 35 .1 115. renunciation. The goddess of fortune and the demigods living there engage in His service day and night. SB 5. He and his many servants always worship the incarnation known as Lord Hayagréva. Manifesting Himself in sixteen parts. and He engages in executing austerity until the end of this millennium.17. Bhadräçva –varña (east) . He is advanced in the opulence of spiritual assets. This is the process of self-realization. in Ketumäla varña. knowledge. the celestial denizens enjoy various standards of material comfort and pleasure. spiritual power. Ketumäla –varña (west). is viñëu-tattva.Bhadraçravä. is surrounded by an ocean of salt water. to favor His devotees by teaching them religion. In each of these eight beautiful provinces. which is twice as broad as Jambüdvépa. The island 117. at the place known as Badarikäçrama. 116. (2)Plakñadvépa. A different incarnation of the Supreme Personality of Godhead distributes His mercy in each of the nine varñas of Jambüdvépa.the form of Nara-Näräyaëa in the land of Bhärata-varña. This Kämadeva. 114.(Lord Håñékeça) appears in the form of Cupid. one of the sons of Mahäräja Priyavrata. The master of this island is Idhmajihva.Bhärata-varña (south) . women are the most beautiful. 113. sense control and freedom from false ego. strength and influence. 118.Its master is Medhätithi.The human beings live on earth and similar other planets in the Bhür and Bhuvar group of planets. (4)Kuçadvépa. The inhabitants of this island worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead in the form of water(Varuna). another feature of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. air. 122. . each with a mountain and a large river.The inhabitants of this island worship Svayambhü. Bhuvarloka as that of the ghostly spirits. (5) Krauïcadvépa . 123. It is also divided into seven regions. Its inhabitants worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead in the form of Väyu. (3)Sälmalédvépa . the fire-god.The master of this island is Ghåtapåñöha. SB 1.is divided into seven regions. 119. but the demigods live in the Svar. 120. 36 .9. another son of Mahäräja Priyavrata. each with a mountain and a very large river.Heaven was established as the residence of the demigods. (2) Bhuvar. The inhabitants of this island worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead in the form of Candrätmä. (6) Çäkadvépa .also divided into seven regions. and its inhabitants worship the Supreme Personality of Godhead in the form of Agni. each with a large mountain and a large river.45 . another son of Mahäräja Priyavrata. 121. Its master is Hiraëyaretä. and the earth system as the place of human beings and other mortal creatures. (7) Puñkaradvépa . another son of Mahäräja Priyavrata. (4) Mahar . the yawning of a demon has produced three kinds of women.In the planet Atala. such as Ävaha. wherein Lord Çiva and his wife Gauré reside. .Yakñaloka and Rakñaloka 124. who presides over the region of Bhuvarloka. and Pravaha. (11)Talätala. called svairiëé (independent). (6) Tapas and (7) Satya. the planet exists as long as that of Lord Brahmä.12 . Below Vitala is the planet (10)Sutala. Below Talätala is the planet 37 . This demon is always materially happy because he is favored by Lord Çiva.24. 125. (3) Svar. .SB 11. Below Atala is the planet (9)Vitala. Because of their presence. . a kind of gold is produced called häöaka.Because most of the residents of Maharloka are candidates for liberation.Çréla Çrédhara Svämé explains that the word marud-gaëaiù indicates the seven great winds. the abode of the demon Maya. kämiëé (lusty) and puàçcalé (very easily subdued by men). but he cannot achieve spiritual happiness at any time. (5) Janas. . the most fortunate king. Çré Kapila resides there.Those mystics who strive for liberation are promoted beyond these three divisions. who holds the planets in their places. The seven lower planetary systems are (8) Atala. Bali Mahäräja was favored by the Supreme Personality of Godhead. 126. Vämanadeva. the abode of Bali Mahäräja. because of his intense devotional service. and they reside in holes like snakes. they are always defeated by the Sudarçana cakra of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Niväta-kavacas. They are called Paëis. They are all enemies of the demigods. Püyoda. SB 5. Çveta. and they have many. (14) Pätäla. From birth they are extremely powerful and cruel. These hoods are bedecked with valuable gems. Vajrakaëöakaçälmalé. some seven. Läläbhakña. Sükaramukha. Kumbhépäka. Rakñogaëabhojana. such as Çaìkha. Mahäçaìkha. Kåmibhojana. others a hundred and others a thousand. Dandaçüka. Avaöa-nirodhana.(12) Mahätala.26 Summary 127. Kulika. Vaitaraëé. Çukadeva Gosvämé describes the following twenty-eight hells: Tämisra. Çülaprota. Kälasütra. where there are many snakes with hundreds and thousands of hoods. some ten. and the light emanating from the gems illuminates the entire planetary system of bila-svarga. who rules all the planetary systems. many hoods—some snakes five hoods. Mahäraurava. Käleyas and Hiraëya-puraväsés [those living in Hiraëya-pura]. Paryävartana and Sücémukha. is the abode of the demoniac sons of Diti and Danu. Taptasürmi. Below Mahätala is (13) Rasätala. the masters of Nägaloka. Andhaküpa. Kñärakardama. and although they are proud of their strength. 38 . They are all extremely angry. Raurava. Ayaùpäna. Açvatara and Devadatta. Dhanaïjaya. Çaìkhacüòa. where there are many demoniac serpents. The chief among them is Väsuki. Dhåtaräñöra. Viçasana. Präëarodha. Kambala. Sandaàça. Asi-patravana. Avéci. Andhatämisra. Särameyädana. Pätäla or Nägaloka. The moon is situated 100. naiñöhika-brahmacärés attain Janaloka. The sages living on Maharloka are the Prajäpatis. which is the residence of Lord Viñëu within this universe.000 yojanas are some stars.000. whose influence is sometimes auspicious and sometimes inauspicious.By rigidly following the rules and regulations for the vänaprastha.000 yojanas is the planet called Båhaspati-graha (Jupiter).1 130. Above Båhaspati-graha is the planet Çanaiçcara (Saturn). which is always very favorable for qualified brähmaëas. and above these stars is Çukra-graha (Venus). Endowed with such 128. is Aìgäraka (Mars). Above Çukra-graha by 200.000 solar years. [Maharloka] where purified saints like Bhågu enjoy a duration of life of 4. Next.000 yojanas is Budha-graha (Mercury).300. whose influence is always auspicious for the inhabitants of the entire universe.22.000 yojanas. which is very inauspicious. which almost always has an unfavorable influence. above Budha-graha by 200. These seven stars circumambulate Dhruvaloka. Upakurvaëa-brahmacärés live in Maharloka. Above the moon by a distance of 200. 39 . and sannyäsés enjoy in Satyaloka. Day and night on the heavenly planets and Pitåloka are calculated according to its waning and waxing. one can easily be elevated to the upper planetary system known as Maharloka. vänaprasthas attain Tapaloka. the original forefathers of the population of the universe. and above Saturn is a group of seven stars occupied by great saintly persons who are always thinking of the welfare of the entire universe. They are the first authorities on the Vedic path of karma. SB 5. Maharloka . Above Aìgäraka by another 200.000 yojanas above the rays of the sunshine. 129. chest. the Prajäpatis live on Maharloka enjoying the greatest pleasures and directly worshiping in various places the Lord of sacrifice.Since the residents of Maharloka frequently travel to Janaloka. when they have a specific reason to visit other planets.happiness. Havis. the two planets are practically a single system. barley. 40 . legs. and Pippaläyana. arms. 132. Tapoloka. and butter. For worshiping the Supreme Lord with wonderful sacrifices. along with other great mystics. 131. and so on. As Gopakumära watched.Sanat-Kumar He is not the only one of his kind. who is there in person as their master. for he has three brothers just as great as he—Sanaka. Antarikña. offered thousands of grand sacrifices. including Kavi. Janaloka . These four brothers live on Tapoloka. Not even Lord Vämana on Svargaloka was this attractive. COMMENTARY The Prajäpatis leave Maharloka only occasionally. When Lord Viñëu appears on Maharloka as Yajïeçvara. mouth. Prabuddha. stand up brilliantly from amidst the fires of oblation and delight in His pastimes as the enjoyer of sacrificial offerings. all the parts of His body are universally attractive— His head. the supreme controller. While the great sages. däl. Sanandana. The one difference between them is that on Janaloka the fire of annihilation from below is far enough away that there is no need to flee. and Sanätana. neck. the Prajäpatis have much better resources than even those available on Svargaloka. the Lord playfully accepted the offering of caru. endowed with pure devotion. I saw the Lord of sacrifice. mixed and boiled in milk. a standard oblation of rice. There is no trouble from the heat of periodic annihilations and no need to migrate to a higher region. Occasionally the residents of Tapoloka have philosophical meetings or worship the Supreme. They were all self-satisfied lifelong celibates. The Kumäras were enjoying among themselves a long discussion incomprehensible to persons like me. or one may practice strict celibacy as a brahmacäré for the years of one’s studies and then enter regulated married life. the Supreme Soul. 135. COMMENTARY 136. full in the achievement of all desires and served by mystic perfections. but otherwise they remain externally disengaged. 134. 141. Nothing in the outside world attracts them. Virtually everyone there was fixed in samädhi. reveals Himself in a thoroughly purified heart. 137. 138. the embodiment of eternity. The yogeçvaras on Tapoloka enjoy undisturbed peace and satisfaction. were honoring the four brothers. and bliss. Life on Tapoloka is all-auspicious. who appeared similar to the Kumäras. The residents of Tapoloka. 41 . and nowhere else. COMMENTARY 139. On Tapoloka the cataclysms at the annihilation of the three worlds go unnoticed. knowledge. Both kinds of celibacy are very beneficial. Lord Väsudeva.One may begin observing celibacy after years of indulgence. 140. but only the rare person with exceptional determination to refrain from all forms of sex for his entire life is allowed to become a resident of Tapoloka. 133. 3. COMMENTARY 146. instructed Brahmä.Çré Väsudeva. Within Satyaloka is a Vaikuëöha planet where the thousand-headed divine Lord of the universe is always present as the Mahäpuruña. Lying on the bed of Ananta Çeña. which is actually an enclave of Vaikuëöha the spiritual world. and in turn the Lord amply gratified him. 144. He enchanted everyone’s eyes and minds. and feet. the heart. step by 142. He resembled a dark-blue cloud and was richly adorned with suitable ornaments. who stood before Him with joined palms. Within the realm of Satyaloka is a spiritual planet. He was an ocean of brilliant effulgence. within His own most excellent residence. called Satyaloka. 143. with thousands of divine arms. As the goddess of fortune. the subtle seat of awareness.23): thus meditation is the process on Tapoloka. reveals Himself only within citta. 148. 147. Lakñmé. stands above all others.His planet. more subtle than the mind. 42 . It is achieved by persons who have done their prescribed duties purely for one hundred lifetimes. Satyaloka. He was huge. the presiding Lord of consciousness. Lord Mahäpuruña was also attentive to Çré Närada’s displays of loving devotion. who sat on the lotus beside Him. Lord Brahmä worshiped the Lord with opulent offerings. The resplendent Lord Mahäpuruña. 145. massaged His feet. His navel was beautiful like a lotus. That is mentioned by Lord Çiva in the Fourth Canto of Çrémad-Bhägavatam (4. 149. He glanced at Garuòa. heads. The Lord patiently explained to Brahmä. named Vaikuëöha. I heard about that wonderful appearance of Çré Viñëu as Upendra (Vamana). Surrounded by hosts of demigods. 43 . Garuòa. traveling to display pastimes in various places. the Lord praised the very sweet music of Närada’s véëä. Gopa-kumära has not witnessed such wonderful pastimes of the Personality of Godhead in any of the places he has gone to thus far. With His wonderful pastimes and pleasing words He completely satisfies the demigods. 151. He was seated on His royal throne—the attractive shoulders of Garuòa. In Svargaloka he will be able to see Lord Vämana flying on His carrier. 153. He goes here and there to kill demons as a sport.step. They worship Him as their own brother.In that heaven the Lord of the universe is present in person as the darling son of Aditi. the path of devotional service to Himself. the essential truth of the revealed scriptures. Mounting the king of birds. Svargaloka . 152. 150. the greatest of mysteries.