Triloksar

The provided text is a summary of the Jain scripture "Triloksar," authored by Nemichandra Siddhant Chakravarti. The book, published by Ladmal Jain, offers a comprehensive explanation of the Jain cosmology, focusing on the three worlds (Trilok).

The text delves into intricate details of the universe as understood in Jainism, including:

Cosmological Structure:

• Three Worlds: The text describes the structure of the universe, divided into three realms: Adholok (lower world), Manushyalok (human world), and Urshlok (upper world).
• Lok and Alok: It defines the "Lok" (universe) as the inhabited realm containing all souls and matter, and "Alok" (non-universe) as the infinite space beyond the universe.
• Dimensions and Measurements: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to explaining the mathematical and geometrical calculations used in Jain cosmology. This includes:
  • Paramanas (Measures): Detailed explanations of various measures like praman, unman, ganiman, etc., differentiating between mundane (laik) and transcendental (alokik) measures.
  • Quantifying the Immense: The text elaborates on methods to quantify incredibly large numbers and distances using concepts like Anavastha, Shalaka, Pratishalaka, and Mahashalaka kundas (wells or reservoirs).
  • Mathematical Formulas: It presents and explains various mathematical formulas and their applications (vastuna) for calculating volumes, areas, and other cosmological parameters, often using analogies from everyday life.
  • Specific Measurements: Detailed measurements for various elements like the size of the universe (Jagadreni), the calculation of Raju (a unit of measurement), and the dimensions of different realms, mountains, rivers, and celestial bodies are provided.

Celestial Bodies and Their Movements:

• Sun, Moon, and Stars: The text describes the arrangement, movements, and characteristics of the sun, moon, planets, and stars.
• Paths (Veethis): It explains the concept of celestial paths (veethis) on which these bodies move and how their positions and speeds influence day and night cycles, as well as the concept of Ayana (Uttarayan and Dakshinayan).
• Nava Graha: It details the nine planets (Navagraha) and their respective characteristics and positions.

Detailed Cosmological Descriptions:

• Hellish Realms (Naraka): The text provides graphic descriptions of the seven hellish realms, including their layered structure, the types of beings found there, their suffering, and the reasons for their rebirth in those realms.
• Heavenly Realms (Vyanta and Jyotishka): It describes the various celestial realms inhabited by Vyanta (subordinate celestial beings) and Jyotishka (celestial beings associated with light) deities.
• Aerial Cities (Vimanas): The book details the structure, size, and composition of the aerial cities (Vimanas) of the celestial beings.
• Deities and Their Hierarchies: It explains the different classes of celestial beings, their ranks (Indra, Prateendra, Lokpal, etc.), their divine attributes, lifespan, and their respective dwellings.
• Chaitra Vrikshas: The text mentions the celestial trees associated with different classes of deities.
• Jewels and Mansions: Descriptions of the jeweled mansions and palaces of the celestials are also included.

Mathematical and Astronomical Concepts:

The "Triloksar" is renowned for its detailed mathematical and astronomical discussions within the framework of Jain cosmology. It uses complex calculations and concepts to describe the universe's vastness and intricacies, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of mathematics and astronomy in ancient India, as interpreted through the Jain lens. The text emphasizes the importance of "Karananuyoga" (the fourth limb of Jain scripture), which deals with these precise calculations.

Commentaries and Editing:

The specific edition referenced includes a Hindi commentary by Arya 105 Shri Vishuddhmati Mataji, with a Sanskrit commentary by Shriman Madhavchandra Trivikramdev. The editing and compilation were carried out by Pt. Ratanchand Jain Mukhtar and Pt. Chet Prakash Patni, with contributions from several other scholars for specific aspects like language correction and mathematical clarifications. The text also mentions the use of various manuscript copies for its editing and comparison.

In essence, "Triloksar" is a foundational Jain text that provides a detailed and systematic account of the Jain understanding of the cosmos, blending spiritual principles with rigorous mathematical and astronomical descriptions.