Hinduism: On a fundamental level, Hinduism defines existence as being comprised of three worlds. (1) The First World (Bhuloka) is the material universe, the physical plane. (2) The Second World (Antarloka) is the subtle, astral plane, the mental and emotional sphere, occupied by angels, spirits and devas (divine beings). (3) The Third World (Brahmaloka) is the causal plane, the spiritual universe of the Mahadevas, 'great radiant entities,' the gods and highly evolved souls spoken of in Hinduism. This superior, superconscious realm has also been referred to as Karanaloka or Sivaloka (by Saivites who believe Shiva is the Creator). The philosophy of Hinduism revolves around the harmonizing and interaction of these three worlds. In Hindu Scripture is found the prayer, 'Make me immortal in that realm where movement is accordant to wish, in the third region, the third heaven of heavens, where the worlds are resplendent.' (Rig Veda 9.1113) Some Hindus would list the three worlds as: (1) Heaven (Svarga); (2) Earth (Bhumi) and; (3) The Underworld (Patala).

More specific categorization speaks of 'seven underworlds' (known collectively as Patala and Sapta Adholoka) and 'seven upperworlds' (known collectively as Sapta Urdhvaloka).¹ The seven 'upper worlds' are a more detailed breakdown of the 'three worlds' already mentioned. First there is Bhuloka, the physical, material plane. Then the second, third and fourth planes (Bhuvarloka, Svarloka, and Maharloka) make up the subtle plane, Antarloka. The fifth, sixth and seventh (Janaloka, Tapoloka and Satyaloka) make up the highest realm of the gods, the causal plane.²

Another reference speaks of 'twenty-one hells beneath the netherworld.'³ Hordes of snakes inhabit all of these 'hells.' They are considered only temporary planes of existence for disembodied souls who deserve such negative treatment because of their karmic debt. Such persons must go through a preparatory purging as they await the next reincarnation on their journey toward ultimate perfection and liberation.