There are eight layers around the universe. Each successive layer is ten
times thicker than the previous one.
The first layer has the same thickness as the diameter of the universe.
Its predominant element is solid matter (bhumi). The Deity or lord of this
first layer is Mahasukararupa (Krishna 's
Varaha-rupa). The fullness, the wealth, and the bliss in this layer are
millions times greater than on Brahmaloka. This is described in Brhad
Bhagavatamrta 2.3.12-32. Thus, those who want to enjoy selfishly, like some
yogis or materialistic bhaktas, are kept away from the spiritual world by the
temptations of this layer. In the spiritual world, there is no place for
selfishness, because everyone and everything is serving Krishna
and lives in unlimited wealth and bliss.
The second layer is liquid (apo). The Deity is Matsya. Here the
temptations are even greater.
The third is the luminous layer (nalo). Here Surya-Narayana is
worshipped.
The fourth is the gaseous layer (vayu) Here Pradyumna is worshipped.
The fifth is the ether layer (kham). Here Aniruddha is worshipped.
The next layer is those of mind (manah), intelligence (buddhi) and false
ego (ahankara) and in these, Sankarsana is worshipped.
The final two layers are manifested primeval matter (mahat-tattva) where
Vasudeva is worshipped and unmanifested primeval matter (pradhana or prakrti)
where Lord Mohini-murti is worshipped by the goddess Prakrti. This goddess is
the bestower of liberation, and the maidservant, sister of and energy (sakti)
of Visnu. This area is the most attractive part of the material world.
