Where exactly is the soul of a liberated siddha located in siddhashila, and what is its experience of existence after moksha?
According to Jain philosophy, when a soul attains moksha (liberation), it is freed forever from the cycle of birth and death (samsara) and rises to the very top of the universe, to a region called Siddhashila.
Location in Siddhashila: Siddhashila is described as an infinitesimal area at the apex (topmost point) of the universe (loka). It is beyond all the realms where birth, death, and karma operate. Every liberated soul (siddha) exists individually at this highest point, with infinite souls residing there, each without any physical body, but occupying their own unique space-point (pradesha) in Siddhashila. The souls do not merge; each retains its own identity and experience.
Experience after Moksha: A liberated soul in Siddhashila enjoys eternal bliss (anant sukh), infinite knowledge (anant jnan), infinite perception (anant darshan), infinite energy (anant virya), and is completely free from karma, attachment, aversion, and all forms of suffering. There is no physical body, no senses, no desires, no emotions, and no activities. The soul exists in a state of pure, uninterrupted consciousness and bliss for eternity.
In summary:
- Location: At the apex of the universe, Siddhashila, each soul in its own space.
- Experience: Infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and energy; total freedom; eternal existence in pure consciousness, without body or suffering.