Answer

No, Jainism does not need to be understood as “denying” that the sun is a star in modern science.

In modern science, the sun is a star. In Jain cosmology, the sun is described as a luminous heavenly body connected with celestial beings and their vimānas. So the language is different from modern astronomy.

Explanation

Jain texts speak about the universe in a traditional cosmological way, not in the same scientific framework used today.

So:

• Science says the sun is a star made of plasma and produces light and heat by nuclear fusion.
• Jain cosmology describes the sun as a divine or celestial object associated with a deva and a vimāna.

A vimāna in Jain tradition means a celestial abode or heavenly vehicle/palace, not a scientific term.

So it is better to say:

• Jainism has its own cosmological description
• Science has its own astronomical description
• They are not always using the same purpose or language

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the main aim is not to teach physical astronomy, but to guide the soul toward:

• right faith
• right knowledge
• right conduct
• liberation

So Jain cosmology should be read in its spiritual and traditional context. It is not necessary to force it into modern scientific categories.

Takeaway

Jainism does not have to be seen as rejecting science. It simply presents the sun within a traditional cosmological view, while science explains it as a star.

If you want, I can also explain how Jain cosmology describes the sun and moon in simple terms.