Rob Burbea, in his explorations of consciousness and the nature of reality, defines the 'imaginal realm' as a dimension of experience that exists between pure imagination and the tangible, physical world. This realm is vibrant and dynamic, populated with symbols, archetypes, and visions that emerge from deep within the psyche, yet it also interacts with the external world in profound and meaningful ways. According to Burbea, the imaginal realm is not to be dismissed as mere fantasy; rather, it holds a rich tapestry of insights, energies, and potentials that can profoundly influence one’s inner and outer life. This realm serves as a bridge, facilitating the flow of inspiration, healing, and transformation, and allowing for a more expansive understanding of what it means to be fully human.
See also: imaginal practice, dependent origination, conventional truth, imaginal dimension, imaginal figure