What is heaven like?

Visitor: "What is heaven like?"

The Master: "There are two kinds of heaven. The one most people think of is that which comprises the higher regions of the astral world. The true heaven, however, and the one to which Jesus more often referred, is the state of union with God.

"The astral heaven has, as Jesus described it, many `mansions,' or levels of vibration. It is similar to this material world, for this one is a projection of those subtler realms. The astral heaven, however, is without the countless imperfections of this grosser plane of existence.

"Heaven is not `up there,' as people commonly imagine. It is all around us. It is just behind our physical vision. I see it all the time, and I spend much of my time there. It is a vast universe, composed of beautiful lights, sounds, and colors. The colors of the material plane are very dull by comparison. Heaven's beauty is like the most radiant sunset you have ever seen, and even far more beautiful.

"There is infinite variety in the astral world. The seasons there can be changed at will by advanced souls. Usually it is springtime there, with perennial sunshine. Snow, when it falls, is peaceful and beautiful, and not at all cold. When the rain falls, it descends gently, as myriad-colored lights.

"Sentiments, too, are highly refined on the astral plane, and far more intense than people normally experience them on earth.

"Heaven is not an idle place. Its inhabitants are very active. All the vibrations of this material universe are controlled by angels. Astral beings, though busy, are at the same time very happy.

"Sometimes, in their compassion for mankind, they visit people in dreams or in visions, or inspire in them beautiful thoughts. "How long a person remains in the astral world depends on how well he lived on earth. Those with good karma may remain there for many centuries. Devotees, on the other hand, spurred on by their desire for enlightenment, may elect to return to earth sooner, in order to continue their spiritual efforts. For they realize that the astral world, too, is but a veil behind which the Lord hides His face of eternal perfection."

~ The Essence of Self-Realization: The Wisdom of Paramhansa Yogananda