Buddhist Cosmology | A Map of the Universe, Consciousness and Rebirth

Buddhist cosmology is one of the most sophisticated and fascinating perspectives on the structure of the universe that humankind has ever devised. It is not merely a ‘map of worlds’ – it is a map of states of consciousness, karmic development and the spiritual path to liberation. This seminar will guide you from the origin of the universe, through the six realms of existence, to the gateway to nirvana.

What is Buddhist cosmology and why is it relevant today?

A brief introduction to the topic – Buddhist cosmology as both a psychological map of consciousness and a literal description of a multidimensional universe. A comparison with modern quantum physics and multiverse theories. Why this topic resonates more today than ever before.

The two pillars of Buddhist cosmology

• Spatial cosmology – where beings exist, what worlds they inhabit and how they enter them
• Temporal cosmology – how the universe comes into being, endures and ceases to exist in cycles known as kalpas and mahakalpas (on the order of 10²⁰ years or 4,320 billion years)

Mount Meru – the centre of the Buddhist universe

The sacred Mount Sumeru as the axis of the universe. Symbolism and literal interpretation. The three cosmic spheres surrounding Meru. How Mount Meru has influenced the art, architecture and spiritual practices of the whole of Asia.

The three great spheres of existence (Tridhatu)

• Kamadhatu – The Sphere of Desire and Sensuality (11 levels)
• Rupadhatu – The Realm of Forms, corresponding to meditative states (16 levels)
• Arupadhatu – The formless sphere, pure consciousness without form (4 levels)

A total of 31 planes of existence – each corresponding to a specific state of mind and the karmic development of a being.

The Six Realms of Existence – The Wheel of Samsara

A detailed guide to the six worlds into which beings are reborn according to their deeds and state of mind:

Karma as the architecture of the universe

How karma not only shapes an individual’s destiny, but literally creates worlds. Karma as the law of cause and effect – not as punishment, but as a physical law of consciousness. Why worlds are dependent on the consciousness of those who inhabit them.

Time cycles – Kalpas and Mahakalpas

• The four phases of the cosmic cycle: creation – existence – dissolution – void
• The duration of an antar-kalpa, a kalpa and a mahakalpa
• The end of the world by fire, water and wind
• Parallels with modern cosmology (the Big Bang, the heat death of the universe)

Nirvana – the 7th state of mind beyond the wheel of samsara

What Nirvana is and what it is not. Nirvana as liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The difference between Nirvana in Theravāda and Mahāyāna. Is Nirvana ‘nothingness’ or ‘fullness’?

The Tibetan perspective | The Bardo and the Tibetan Book of the Dead

The state of consciousness between death and rebirth (bardo). How Buddhist cosmology influences the practice of dying and the care of the dying. Current applications in modern thanatology and palliative care.

Buddhist cosmology and modern science

• The Multiverse and Buddhist ‘innumerable worlds’
• Quantum physics and emptiness (śūnyatā)
• Consciousness as the foundation of reality – a comparison with neuroscientific research
• The Dalai Lama and dialogues with scientists

The practical dimension: How cosmology influences daily practice

Meditation and states of consciousness corresponding to individual spheres. How an understanding of cosmology changes one’s relationship to death, suffering and the meaning of life. Recommended meditation techniques for club members.

Discussion and questions

A space for seminar participants to share their experiences, questions and personal perspectives.

“The universe is not a place – it is a state of mind.” — Buddhist wisdom

Register for the Buddhist Cosmology seminar today

The seminar is open to members of the NATURAMEDICIN Club. Don’t miss this opportunity.

Bohuslav Větrovskýandthe NATURAMEDICIN Club teamlook forward to seeing you

Admission: 250,-

Booking is essential; places are limited.

Thank you