What is the Buddhist concept that refers to a state of heavenly peace and spiritual liberation?

The concept that refers to a state of heavenly peace and spiritual liberation in Buddhism is Nirvana. This term encapsulates the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, which is to achieve freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (referred to as Samsara) and to transcend suffering. Nirvana represents a state of perfect peace and the cessation of desire, attachment, and ignorance.

Reaching Nirvana signifies that one has fully understood the nature of reality, cultivated wisdom, and developed compassion, leading to profound inner tranquility and liberation from the material and emotional binds that cause suffering. In this state, an individual experiences enlightenment, which is the ultimate realization of the Four Noble Truths in Buddhism.

While Dharma refers to the teachings and laws governing the moral and ethical conduct of individuals, Moksha is a term more commonly associated with Hinduism that also signifies liberation but differs in its conceptualization from the Buddhist idea of Nirvana. Samsara, on the other hand, describes the ongoing cycle of life and rebirth that one seeks to escape through the attainment of Nirvana. Thus, Nirvana is uniquely positioned within Buddhist teachings as both a goal and a profound spiritual state.