Where is heaven located? This is one of the most asked spiritual questions of all time. People long to understand the afterlife, where God resides, and what awaits believers. The Bible speaks clearly about heaven, though not always in geographical terms. This article explores what Scripture, theology, and spiritual insight reveal about heaven’s location.
What Is Heaven?
Heaven is the dwelling place of God, angels, and the redeemed. It’s described as a place of perfect peace, joy, and eternal communion with God. It’s more than just a “place”, it’s a realm of God’s presence and glory.
Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe every tear from their eyes… There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…”
Where Does the Bible Say Heaven Is Located?
1. Heaven Is “Up” – But More Than Physically Up
Scripture often uses directional language like “up” when referring to heaven:
Acts 1:9-11 – Jesus ascended into heaven, and the disciples looked up as He went.
This suggests that heaven is above, but the Bible also teaches that heaven is a spiritual realm, not just a physical place above the clouds.
2. Heaven Is God’s Throne
Isaiah 66:1 – “Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool.”
This verse points to heaven as a place of divine authority and majesty, not simply a location, but God’s sovereign domain.
3. Heaven Is in the “Third Heaven”
Paul wrote about being caught up into the “third heaven”, a unique phrase suggesting different levels or realms:
2 Corinthians 12:2-4 – “…caught up to the third heaven… into Paradise.”
First heaven: the sky (atmosphere)
Second heaven: outer space (stars, galaxies)
Third heaven: God’s dwelling place
What Do Theologians Say About Heaven’s Location?
Most biblical scholars agree:
- Heaven is real, but it exists outside time and space as we understand them.
- Heaven is in a spiritual dimension – not bound by physical laws.
- After death, souls immediately enter this spiritual reality.
Is Heaven a Literal Place or a Spiritual State?
Both. Heaven is a literal, conscious existence for believers, yet it transcends physical geography.
- Literal: We will have resurrected bodies (1 Corinthians 15)
- Spiritual: It is not a city on Earth or a planet – it’s a holy realm.
John 14:2-3 – “In My Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you.”
Will Heaven Be on Earth One Day?
Yes! According to the Bible, God will one day create a new heaven and a new earth.
Revelation 21:1-3 – “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth… God’s dwelling place is now among the people.”
Heaven will ultimately merge with Earth, creating a new eternal home for the redeemed, where heaven and earth become one.
Where Is Heaven Right Now?
- It is inaccessible to human eyes, but real and active.
- Jesus is there now, preparing a place for His followers.
- Heaven is in the spiritual realm, closer than we think, yet beyond our dimension.
Can We Know the Way to Heaven?
Yes! The way to heaven is through Jesus Christ.
John 14:6 – “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
Heaven is not just a destination, it’s the presence of God. Trusting in Jesus gives us access to eternal life with Him.
Heaven Is Real, And It’s Home
Heaven is not just “out there.” It’s a spiritual reality, a promised home for all who put their faith in Jesus. While we may not have GPS coordinates, we have something better – God’s Word, which gives us assurance, hope, and direction.
So, where is heaven? It’s where God is. It’s where we’re going. And it’s more real than anything we see.
