rupaloka

Rupa-loka, meaning the realm of form, is a major division in Buddhist cosmology. It is the second of the three broad realms of existence, situated above the kama-loka (the desire realm) and below the arupa-loka (the formless realm). Beings in the rupa-loka possess physical form but are no longer governed by the gross sensual desires of the kama-loka; their experiences are shaped by more subtle mental factors and by meditative development.

The rupa-loka comprises several heavenly realms where beings enjoy pleasant conditions and refined mental states associated with meditative absorption. In Theravada accounts, it includes the four jhānas and the celestial abodes known as the Brahma worlds, which are considered part of the form realm. Lifespans in these realms are long but finite, and beings are reborn there due to karma.

Access to rupa-loka is said to arise through deep concentration and the attainment of jhānas. Further progress to the arupa-lokas occurs through formless meditations, while the ultimate Buddhist goal, nibbāna, lies beyond all lokas.

In summary, rupa-loka denotes the form realm within Buddhist cosmology, a level of existence characterized by form and meditative development, where beings experience long but conditioned existences before still higher or ultimate states are sought. The concept helps describe the structured progression of meditative attainment and rebirth within the broader samsaric cosmos.