In Jainism, the terms "Rudras" and "Kamadevs" refer to specific classes of celestial beings (devas) described within Jain cosmology.

Rudras:

• In Jain texts, Rudras are a group of heavenly beings categorized under the Vyantar Devas (intermediary or peripatetic deities).
• There are eight primary classes of Vyantar Devas: Kinnara, Kimpurusha, Mahoraga, Gandharva, Yaksha, Rakshasa, Bhuta, and Pisacha. Among these, the Rudras are sometimes mentioned as a sub-class or associated with Yakshas or Bhutas.
• Rudras are considered powerful but not supreme beings. They possess supernatural abilities and reside in the lower heavens (Vyantar Viman).
• Unlike in Hinduism, where Rudra is associated with Shiva, in Jainism, Rudras are not worshipped as supreme deities but are recognized as part of the vast hierarchy of celestial beings.
• Jain texts such as "Trilokasara," "Tiloyapannatti," and "Jambudvipa-pannatti" contain descriptions of these classes of deities.

Kamadevs:

• Kamadevs in Jainism are another class of heavenly beings, specifically associated with the category of Devas.
• These beings are known for their beauty and sensual pleasures, and they preside over passions and desires, but they are not considered objects of worship in Jainism.
• In Jain cosmology, Kamadevs are classified among the residential gods who inhabit the heavens, enjoying pleasures as a result of their past karmas.
• The concept of Kamadeva in Jainism is not identical to that in Hinduism (where Kamadeva is the god of love), but rather they represent a class of pleasure-seeking celestial beings.

Key Points:

• Both Rudras and Kamadevs are part of the Jain cosmological hierarchy of heavenly beings, but they are not considered worthy of ultimate worship or liberation.
• Their existence is due to the fruition of meritorious karma, and they are still subject to the cycle of birth and death (samsara).
• Jain spiritual practice does not focus on propitiating these beings, but rather aims for liberation (moksha) through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

References:

• "Jainism: An Indian Religion of Salvation" by Helmuth von Glasenapp
• "Jain Cosmology" by Colette Caillat and Ravi Kumar
• "Tiloyapannatti" and "Trilokasara" (classic Jain scriptures)