Answer

Madhyaloka, also called Tiryagloka, is the middle world in Jain cosmology. It is the realm between the upper world (Urdhvaloka) and the lower world (Adholoka). This is the world where humans, animals, birds, plants, and many other living beings exist.

It is called Tiryagloka because it extends horizontally across the universe.

Explanation

In Jain thought, the universe is divided into three main parts:

• Urdhvaloka — the upper world
• Madhyaloka / Tiryagloka — the middle world
• Adholoka — the lower world

The middle world is especially important because:

• It is the realm of human life
• It is the realm of karma and action
• It is the place where spiritual practice is possible
• It is the place from where a soul can move toward moksha

This world is not just Earth alone. In Jain cosmology, it includes a vast arrangement of islands and oceans, with the inhabited regions found in specific parts of it.

List of the Main Features of Madhyaloka

1. Meaning: Middle world
2. Other name: Tiryagloka
3. Position: Between upper world and lower world
4. Form: Spreads horizontally
5. Inhabitants: Humans, animals, birds, plants, insects, and many other जीवs
6. Structure: Made up of island-continents and oceans
7. Important inhabited regions:

- Jambudvipa - Dhatakikhanda - Half of Pushkarardha

1. Spiritual importance: The only realm where a soul can properly practice dharma and work toward liberation

Spiritual Understanding

Madhyaloka is very precious because it is the world of choice and responsibility. Here, a soul can live with:

• Ahimsa
• Self-control
• Truthfulness
• Austerity
• Compassion

That is why Jainism teaches that human birth in Madhyaloka should be used wisely for samyak darshan, samyak jnana, and samyak charitra.

Takeaway

Madhyaloka is the middle world of life and action. It is the sacred field where the soul can rise upward through right conduct and spiritual discipline.