In Buddhism, what does Nirvana represent?

Nirvana in Buddhism represents the ultimate state of liberation from suffering. It is a profound spiritual goal that signifies the end of the cycle of birth, suffering, death, and rebirth (samsara). Achieving Nirvana means that an individual has extinguished desire, attachment, and ignorance, which are seen as the root causes of suffering. This state is characterized by profound peace, freedom, and the cessation of all forms of suffering, both physical and mental.

The concept of Nirvana transcends temporary feelings of happiness or a passing state of bliss; instead, it encompasses a permanent transformative experience that leads to enlightenment. The other choices don't accurately reflect the essence of Nirvana—unlike a temporary state of bliss or a simple concept of heaven, Nirvana is not a reward or location but rather a state of being that involves complete liberation from the cycles of existence.