1) There are different realms of existence. The 6 main realms are: Hell, Animal, Hungry Ghost, Demon, Human and Heaven, (Page 43: Just be Good). Each main realm may be sub-divided into a few more realms. Some realms were 'overlapping', e.g. Animal, Hungry Ghost, Human.
2) The highest realm is Heaven. But the goal is not just to reach the realm of Heaven. It is to reach beyond Heaven, called Nirvana (in Sanskrit) and Nibbana in Pali language. Once you reach Nirvana, you are out of the endless cycle of birth and re-birth within the various realms.
3) Those who reached Nirvana is called Arhat (check Dictionary.com).
4) Those who reached Nirvana, but voluntarily chose to remain outside (to help others) is called Bodhissattva. They are often represented by paintings and sculptures.
5) I understand that Buddha is a Bodhisattva.
Well I am intrigued by this Buddhist teachings !!!!!! Buddhism is a non-thestic religion. They don't believe in a personal God.
But I believe in a personal God. !!!
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