In Jainism, attaining manushya bhav (human birth) instead of being reborn in devlok (heavenly realms) is considered highly desirable, because only as a human being can one achieve liberation (moksha). The heavenly realms (devas) are pleasurable, but beings there are not able to practice self-restraint or make spiritual progress towards liberation.

Key Jain Teachings for Attaining Manushya Bhav:

1. Right Faith (Samyak Darshan): Develop and maintain unwavering faith in the true teachings of the Tirthankaras.

1. Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana): Study and understand the Jain scriptures and philosophy.

1. Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra): Practice ethical living according to Jain principles—observe the five main vows (non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-attachment).

1. Avoid Excessive Attachment to Pleasures: Strong desires for sensual or heavenly pleasures can lead to birth in devlok. Cultivate detachment (vairagya) and remain focused on spiritual progress.

1. Perform Auspicious Karmas: Engage in pious activities like charity, fasting, meditation, and service to ascetics, but always with the intention of spiritual advancement, not for heavenly rewards.

1. Control Passions (Kashaya): Minimize anger, ego, deceit, and greed. These passions are primary causes of lower births or deviation from human birth.

1. Strong Desire for Liberation: If your ultimate goal is moksha, and you pray and act with the intention of attaining manushya bhav for spiritual progress, your karmas will support a human birth.

Scriptural Reference: According to Jain scriptures (e.g., Tattvartha Sutra), the human birth is a result of punya (merit) accumulated with the right intentions. Desiring heaven (devalok) or indulging in good deeds for sensual rewards leads to birth in heavenly realms, but not to liberation.

Summary:

• Do not desire heavenly pleasures.
• Perform religious duties with the intention of attaining self-realization.
• Practice right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
• Pray for human birth dedicated to spiritual growth.

Prayer Example (from Jain tradition): “O Lord, may I always attain human birth in which I can listen to your teachings and progress towards moksha.”

Conclusion: By living according to Jain principles, avoiding the desire for heavenly pleasures, and focusing on spiritual advancement, one accumulates the right karmas for manushya bhav and not devlok.