What is Thirty-Six Heavens 三十六天?

The Thirty-Six Heavens are spaces where immortals reside, conceived by Taoism based on the cosmic creation theory that "Tao generates all things." They provide doctrinal basis for practicing Taoism to become immortals. Specifically:

Taihuang Huangzeng Tian, Taiming Yuwan Tian, Qingming Hetong Tian, Xuantai Pingyu Tian, Yuanming Wenju Tian, Qiyao Moyi Tian – these six heavens are collectively called the "Desire Realm."

Xuwu Yueheng Tian, Taiji Mengyi Tian, Chiming Heyang Tian, Xuanming Gonghua Tian, Yaoming Zongpiao Tian, Zhuluo Huangjia Tian, Xuming Tangyao Tian, Guanming Duanjing Tian, Xuanming Gongqing Tian, Taihuan Jiyao Tian, Yuanzai Kongsheng Tian, Tai'an Huangya Tian, Xianding Jifeng Tian, Shihuang Xiaomang Tian, Taihuang Wengzhong Tian, Wusi Jiangyou Tian, Shangdie Ruanle Tian, Wuji Tanshi Tian – these eighteen heavens are collectively called the "Form Realm."

Haoting Xiaodu Tian, Yuantong Yuandong Tian, Hanchong Miaocheng Tian, Xiule Jinshang Tian – these four heavens are collectively called the "Formless Realm."

The "Desire Realm," "Form Realm," and "Formless Realm" are collectively known as the "Three Realms," totaling twenty-eight heavens.

Above the Three Realms, there are another four heavens: Wushang Changrong Tian, Yulong Tengsheng Tian, Longbian Fandu Tian, Pingyu Jiayi Tian.

Taiqing Jing Dachitian, Shangqing Jing Yuyu Tian, Yuqing Jing Qingwei Tian – these three heavens are collectively called the "Three Pure Heavens."

The highest layer of the Thirty-Six Heavens is called the "Daluo Tian." Together with the "Three Pure Heavens," they are collectively referred to as the "Four Holy Realms."