Jainism, one of the oldest religions originating from India, has a rich and detailed cosmology that outlines the structure and functioning of the universe. Jain cosmology is intricate, filled with metaphysical insights, and emphasizes the infinite nature of the universe. This cosmology is deeply intertwined with Jain philosophy and ethics, reflecting the religion’s core principles of non-violence (ahimsa), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and many-sided reality (anekantavada).
An Outline on Jain Cosmology:Jain cosmology describes the universe as eternal and uncreated, meaning it has always existed and will continue to exist forever. It is not the result of any divine creation or destruction but functions according to its inherent laws. This universe is divided into three main parts:
- Urdhva Loka (Upper World): The abode of celestial beings or god persons.
- Madhya Loka (Middle World): The world where human beings as well as plants abound
- Adho Loka (Lower World): The place for infernal beings or hellish creatures.
These worlds are part of a larger structure known as Lokakash that serves as cosmic space where all living beings (jivas) reside. Beyond this lies Alokakash which is a boundless space without any living being.
Structure of the UniverseUsually, the Jain universe is depicted as a cosmic man referred to as Lokapurusha or a three-dimensional diagram called cosmic mansion which symbolizes its complicated structure. Now let us look at these parts more closely:
Urdhva Loka (Upper World)
The upper world contains sixteen heavens in which celestial beings known as devas live. These heavens are arranged in tiers each occupied by different gods with varying powers and pleasures. The greater the heaven, the happier and more long-lived its inhabitants.
- First Heaven to Sixth Heaven: Also known as Kalpa heavens, they are realms of Vaimanik Devas.
- Seventh Heaven to Twelfth Heaven: They are also called the Graiveyaka heavens, where higher deities dwell.
- Thirteenth Heaven: Anuttara is its name; that is where the holy beings among gods live.
- Fourteenth Heaven: Here Siddhas dwell; those who have overcome birth and death cycle.
Madhya Loka (Middle World):Human beings, animals, and plants are found within this middle world alone. Only moksha or liberation can be attained here. The Jambudvipa region is one of several regions into which this world is subdivided.
- Jambudvipa is surrounded by various oceans and continents; Jambudvipa is a place where most Jain historical events took place, this consists of Bharata Kshetra and Airavat Kshetra, regions which are similar to modern-day Indian subcontinent and central Asia.
Jambudvipa is bounded by the Lavana Samudra (Salt Ocean), followed by Dhataki Khanda, etc., extending outward in an intricate pattern of continents and oceans.
Adho Loka (Lower World)
The Lower World contains seven hells each one lower and more torturous than the previous one. The inhabitants of these hells undergo tremendous suffering and are reborn here due to their evil karmas.
- First Hell to Seventh Hell: Each next hell is deeper and more agonizing for the living beings here who will experience intense pain, but after paying off their karmic debts they will be reborn into another life form again.
The Shape and Dimensions of the UniverseAccording to Jain cosmology, the universe looks like a giant human figure with legs apart and arms resting on its hips. This cosmic being measures 14 rajjus (one rajju is a very large unit of measurement). The Middle World lies right in its waist representing its central position in cosmic order as well as importance.
- Height: Lokakash is about 14 rajjus high.
- Width: At its widest part (Middle World), it is a single rajju breadth.
- Depth: It thickens, with the middle section being the most widespread.
On the Nature of TimeIn Jain cosmology, time is cyclical and divided into two long periods namely Utsarpini (ascending time) and Avasarpini (descending time). Each period has six smaller ones called aras; they vary greatly in duration and features.
Utsarpini (Ascending Time): A continuous improvement during which happiness, age, height, and other characteristics of sentient beings gradually increase.
- Avasarpini (Descending Time): Constant decline over time that leads to a loss of these traits.
- Through countless years the cycles go on changing, but not ceasing because there are no ends in the universe.
The Role Of KarmaAt the center of Jain cosmology lies the belief in karma. Karma is a kind of matter that gets attached to the soul (jiva) shaping its future births and experiences. The cycle of birth, death, and reincarnation (samsara) is driven by karma. There are eight main kinds of karma falling under two headings:
Ghatiya Karma (Destructive): These perturb the characteristic attributes or qualities of the soul or jivaJnanavarniyaDarshanvarniyaMohaniyaAntaray
The Idea of Siddhashila:Siddhashila is the uppermost plane in the universe where liberated souls dwell. It is beyond the dimensions of Lokakash and a state of eternal bliss. Siddhas, that are liberated souls, do not have any physical form, will not be reborn, nor do they suffer for anything. They are in a state of perfect consciousness and infinite knowledge.
Cosmographic Details
- Jainism’s cosmography contains an abundance of maps and diagrams that depict the layout of the universe as follows:
- Samayasar Chakra: A comprehensive cosmic picture explaining the time cycle and progress of the soul.
- Lokapurusha: The representation of the cosmos as a superhuman being.
- Jambudvipa Diagram: A map showing Jambudweep – the central continent and its neighboring areas in detail.
The Importance Of Cosmology In Jain PracticeJain cosmology isn’t just a theory; it has practical implications for spiritual practitioners. Knowing how this world/universe is constructed helps Jains understand why their actions matter so much; it shows them that ethical conduct counts. It serves as a reminder that every act must be nonviolent because hurting any living thing may lead to negative karma on one’s path toward salvation.
The cosmological views also emphasize the interconnectedness of all life forms and the moral responsibility of humans to protect and respect all living beings. This has profound implications for lifestyle choices, including vegetarianism and non-violence in thought, word, and deed.
Jain Cosmology and Modern Science
Though Jain cosmology is rooted deeply in religious and philosophical traditions, some of its concepts seem to be in line with modern scientific perspectives. For example:
Eternal Universe: The idea that the universe is eternal and uncreated can be linked with some contemporary theories on cosmology suggesting that there might have been endless creation-destruction cycles.
Multiple Worlds: Multiverse theory from modern physics can be related to the existence of multiple realms or worlds.
Nevertheless, Jain cosmology remains different because it emphasizes ethical as well as spiritual dimensions based on moral implications one derives from understanding the universe and his/her place within it.
Jain cosmology provides a comprehensive and intricate view of the universe, emphasizing its eternal nature, the cyclical nature of time, and the moral responsibilities of living beings. It integrates metaphysical, ethical, and practical aspects guiding adherents towards a path of non-violence self-discipline, and spiritual liberation.