Answer

In Jainism, planets and celestial bodies are described as part of the Jain cosmological structure, especially within the Madhya-loka — the middle world where humans, animals, plants, and many celestial beings exist.

Jain Dharma does not view planets as creator-gods or controllers of destiny. They are considered material celestial bodies and are part of the orderly structure of the universe, which is beginningless and not created by any God.

Explanation

According to Jain cosmology, the universe is divided into three main regions:

• Ūrdhva-loka – the upper world, where heavenly beings reside
• Madhya-loka – the middle world, where humans and many visible celestial bodies exist
• Adho-loka – the lower world, where hellish beings reside

Planets, stars, sun, and moon are generally placed in the context of Jyotiṣka devas or luminous celestial bodies. These include:

• Sūrya – Sun
• Candra – Moon
• Graha – Planets
• Nakṣatra – Constellations
• Tārā – Stars

In Jain thought, these are not supreme divine beings. They are part of the cosmic arrangement and are associated with celestial beings who have bodies made of subtle matter and enjoy heavenly conditions due to their karma.

Jain View of Planets

• The universe is eternal and operates according to natural laws and karma.
• Planets do not create, preserve, or destroy the universe.
• They do not grant liberation.
• They are not worshipped as ultimate spiritual refuges.
• The true refuge in Jain Dharma is the Arihant, Siddha, Ācārya, Upādhyāya, and Sādhu.

Spiritual Understanding

Jainism teaches that a soul’s happiness, suffering, birth, death, and spiritual progress are determined by karma, not by planetary favor or anger.

Therefore, while Jain tradition recognizes celestial bodies within cosmology, it emphasizes:

• Right Faith
• Right Knowledge
• Right Conduct
• Non-violence
• Self-discipline
• Purification of karma

A person becomes spiritually elevated not by depending on planets, but by conquering passions such as anger, pride, deceit, and greed.

Takeaway

In Jainism, planets are part of the natural cosmic order, not supreme gods or destiny-makers. Jain Dharma places the highest importance on karma, self-effort, and liberation of the soul.