In Hinduism and Buddhism , the realm of pious celestial spirits.
In Theravada , it includes the 20 uppermost planes of existence. The lower 16 of these are the rupa-brahma-loka , material realms inhabited by progressively radiant gods. The highest four realms, the arupa-brahma-loka , are devoid of substance. Rebirth into these realms is the reward for great virtue and meditation; the level attained is determined by faithfulness to the Buddha , the dharma and the sangha . See also arupa-loka , rupa-loka .