The Life of Earth According to Jainism

Jainism, a spiritual and philosophical tradition with roots in ancient India, offers a unique perspective on the life and destiny of the Earth. Central to this view is the understanding of time, the concept of karma, and the promotion of non-violence towards all life forms. Let us explore the key elements of Jain cosmology as it relates to the life of Earth.

1. Cosmic Cycles: Kalachakra

The Jain cosmos is understood through the concept of Kalachakra, or the eternal wheel of time. This is divided into two halves: Utsarpini (ascending) and Avasarpini (descending), with each period consisting of six eras, for a total of twelve cosmic cycles. During Utsarpini, the world experiences increasing happiness, morality, and longevity, while during Avasarpini, there is a decline in these qualities, leading to greater suffering and shorter lifespans.

2. Duration of Time

The duration of each era is described as vast and inconceivably long. The current Avasarpini era is thought to last for billions of years, forming a part of a larger, cyclical timeline. This means that the Earth, as we know it, is just one in a series of Earths undergoing these cosmic cycles.

3. Karma and Rebirth

Central to Jainism is the concept of karma, the idea that the actions of individual beings affect their future circumstances, including those of life forms on Earth. Jains believe that all living beings are subject to these laws, which determine their rebirth and experiences.

4. Spiritual Progress

The ultimate goal in Jainism is to achieve Moksha, or liberation, from the cycles of birth and death. This liberation is achieved by overcoming the karmic bonds that tether the soul to the physical world, allowing for spiritual liberation and enlightenment.

5. Non-violence and Respect for Life

Another core belief in Jainism is Ahimsa, the principle of non-violence and respect for all life forms. This belief profoundly shapes the Jain view of the Earth and its ecosystems, encouraging a lifestyle that minimizes harm to all living beings.

Comparative Geography in Jain Cosmology

According to SramanaJaina scriptures, our Earth is but a small part of the Arya Khand of Bharat Kshetra, within the larger framework of Jain cosmology. Similar to Bharat Kshetra, there is an Airavat Kshetra located on the opposite end of Bharat Kshetra, within Jambudweep. Along with Bharat Kshetra, there are other geographical regions such as Airavat Kshetra, Bharat, and Airavat Kshetra in other dweepas like Dhatkikhand and Ardhapushkar, leading to a total of five Bharat and five Airavat Kshetras in all.

These regions undergo constant change through the six epochs of the time cycle applicable to all Bharat and Airavat Kshetras. However, the entire universe is described as Shashwat (eternal), meaning it has no beginning or end.

PEACE!