Compassionate Bhagwan Mahavir

Author(s): Purnachandravijay
Publisher: Diwakar Prakashan

Page 71

Dear Friends,
How are you? In our eighth meeting through these pages, shall we continue learning a few more things ?
Q. 24 What is the concept of the Universe according to Jainism?
Ans. The concept of the Universe has always intrigued mankind from the beginning of civilization. Who created the universe? why was it created? when was it created? what is the shape of the universe? Such questions boggled the minds of the people. The result of these deliberations gave rise to number of theories and one of them is Jain metaphysics.
According to Jaina metaphysics the universe is an uncreated entity which has always been in existence and shall always remain in existence. There was neither any beginning of the universe nor there is going to be any end. In other words the universe was neither created nor will it be ever destroyed. Since the universe was not created the question of creator does not arise. The universe is a self evident and self existent entity. Regarding the shape of the universe the Jains hold the view that it resembles a man standing with his feet apart and arms tucked on the waist. When we see the diagram of the Jain Universe we are reminded that each one of us holds the same universe within ourself. The microcosm is the replica of the macrocosm.
As shown in the diagram the bottom part of our body represents Ahimsa-non violence, the heart section represents the four types of birth i.e. heaven, human, animal, and hell. The head represents Right faith, Right knowledge, Right conduct - the means to liberation and lastly the top of the head call the crown symbolizes the abode of the liberated souls (Siddhas). If one sits for meditation and reflects on the universe within, one can manifest these qualities that is of the self in one's life. We may ask a question to ourself, "Am I non-violent in my thoughts, words and action?” “Am I behaving like an angel or a human-being or like an animal or a hell-being?" Am I pursuing the path of Right faith, Right knowledge and Right conduct?" When the answers to these questions satisfy our conscience then the radiance of the Siddhas will descend upon us and light our way to liberation, as the presence of the sun illumines the earth and removes darkness.
Thus the Jain Universe symbolizes that wandering soul can achieve Moksha-liberation through Right faith, knowledge, conduct and practice of ahimsa.
THE JAIN UNIVERSE
Abodne of the Liberatec Souls
Right Faith
Right Conduct - Right Knowledge
Three Paths
Four
Heaven Human
Destinies 3
Animal Hell
Non Violence
Q.25 Which are the substances that constitute the Universe?
Ans. According to the Jain metaphysics there are six substances called Shad dravyas that constitute the universe. All the substances continue functioning within themselves by their own nature
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