Abstract

This research aims to (1) study Deva in Theravãda Buddhism, (2) study Deva from Brahman views in Theravãda Buddhism scriptures, and (3) compare Deva in views of Theravãda Buddhism and Deva in views of Brahman from Theravãda Buddhism scriptures. The results are found as follows

1. Deva in Theravãda Buddhism means a group of Devas in the heaven. They are both male and female. Deva refers to a supernatural state with bright body, and radius. Deva live happily in various levels of heaven. The male Deva is called Devaputra, while it is called Devtida for the female Deva. Being born in a state of Devaputra or Devtida is not related to a state of pregnancy like human. It is born as a state of Deva which is called a state of Oppatika who is born immediately with a perfect organ. It is believed that the state of Devaputra will have the same completely perfect body as a man of twenty years. While Devtida will have same absolutely beautiful body as a girl of sixteen or seventeen years. They will not be old or sick, but will have a young state until they die. They will get what they imagine which is called a supernatural state.

2. Deva in views  of Brahman of Theravãda Buddhism means God who is naturally born which can cause happiness, birth, and death. Brahman Deva is believed to cause both happiness and suffering. However, later this belief has been changed. Thus, there are three types of Deva:Brahman, Siva, and Visanu. Brahman is considered as a manufacturer. Siva is a destroyer. Visanu is a keeper. They are considered the highest Devas who have much impact on Hindu people.

3. A comparison of Deva in views of Theravãda Buddhism and Brahman is found that the similarity of Deva in views of Theravãda Buddhism and Brahman as in Theravãda Buddhism scriptures is a natural birth living in a high level of heavens with the power related to their good merit. While the difference is that Deva from the view of Theravãda Buddhism happens from the process of human development which is under the cycle of action (kamma),desires and miserly from bad deeds. In contrast, Deva from Buddhism views comes from the human who makes merit. After death, they are born as devas in various heavens based on their merits. But, the development of Deva according to Brahman view come from the supernatural beliefs which cause human both happiness and suffering.