aviha (derivation uncertain; Sanskrit avrha) is one of the five Pure Abodes (Suddhāvāsa , q.v.) in the fine-material sphere. For details, s. under Anāgāmī.

Buddhist Dictionary, Manual of Buddhist Terms and Doctrines, by NYANATILOKA MAHATHERA

Avihā

A class of devas. Their world ranks among the five foremost of the rupa-worlds, the Suddhāvāsā (D.ii.52; iii.237; M.iii.103).

Anāgāmīs are born in Avihā and there attain arahantship (ItA.40).

Mention is made of seven persons who became arahants immediately after being born in the Avihā world:

• Upaka
• Phalaganda
• Pukkusāti
• Bhaddiya
• Kundadeva
• Bāhudanti
• Pingiya

(MA.ii.999)

The name Avihā means "not falling from prosperity" (attano sampattiyā na hāyantīti Avihā) (VibhA.521; DA.ii.480).

The duration of life in Avihā is one thousand kappas (DA.iii.740).

Uddhamsotas start their career from Avihā and end in Akanitthā (PsA.319; DhA.iii.289-90).

The Buddha once visited Avihā. D.ii.50-1.

Dictionary of Pali Proper Names, G P Malalasekera (1899-1973), which is available as printed version from