how may lokas are there ?
In Jainism, when we say “How many lokas are there?”, we usually speak in two main ways:
- Three main lokas (realms of existence)
The whole universe (loka) is divided into three big parts: 1. Urdhva Loka – Upper world (heavenly realms of devas) 2. Madhya Loka – Middle world (where humans, animals, plants live) 3. Adho Loka – Lower world (seven hells / naraks)
Above Urdhva Loka is Siddhashila, the place of liberated souls (siddhas), beyond birth and death. It is usually mentioned separately as the highest state.
- Same in both traditions
- Both Digambar and Shwetambar accept this basic structure: 3 lokas + Siddhashila at the top. - They may differ slightly in detailed sub‑divisions and measurements, but not in the main threefold division.
So, commonly taught answer:
- There are 3 main lokas (Urdhva, Madhya, Adho),
- and Siddhashila above them as the realm of liberated souls.