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168
Tarvathasutra
The origin of goddesses is until the eighth heaven; there is none above that. Therefore, when they, desirous of sensual pleasures, reside in the third and higher heavens, they are regarded as respectful to their own kin and eventually reach the gods above. Upon arrival, merely touching their hands grants fulfillment of desires from the gods of the third and fourth heavens; merely seeing their adorned and beautiful form fulfills the desires of the fifth and sixth heavens. In this way, by hearing their beautiful and musically pleasing words, the gods of the seventh and eighth heavens experience sensual enjoyment. Goddesses can only reach up to the eighth heaven, not beyond. The fulfillment of desires for the gods of the ninth to the twelfth heavens occurs merely from the contemplation of these goddesses. The gods above the twelfth heaven are calm and devoid of sensual desires; thus, they do not expect to enjoy sensual pleasures from the touch, form, word, or contemplation of goddesses. Nevertheless, they are more satisfied and happier than the other gods. The reason for this is clear: as the intensity of desire increases, the affliction of the mind also increases; and as the affliction of the mind increases, the subjects to alleviate it also need to increase proportionately. The desires of the gods of the lower heavens are lesser compared to those of the gods of the higher heavens, and thus their mental afflictions are also lesser, which is why their means for sensual enjoyment are also lesser.