Answer

As per traditional Jain cosmology, the Earth is not described in the modern “flat Earth vs spherical Earth” scientific framework.

Jain scriptures describe the inhabited world as part of Madhya Loka, especially Jambūdvīpa, which is presented in a cosmological and spiritual model with continents, oceans, mountains, regions, heavens, hells, and the broader structure of the universe.

So, Jainism does not simply say “Earth is flat” in the modern sense. It describes a traditional Jain universe that is different from modern scientific astronomy.

Explanation

In Jain cosmology:

• The universe is eternal and uncreated.
• It is divided into three main parts:
  • Ūrdhva Loka – upper world
  • Madhya Loka – middle world
  • Adho Loka – lower world
• Human beings live in parts of Madhya Loka.
• Jambūdvīpa is an important central region in Jain cosmology.
• Mount Meru is described at the center of Jambūdvīpa.

These descriptions are part of the Jain scriptural worldview and are often explained for understanding the structure of saṃsāra, karma, rebirth, and spiritual progress.

Spiritual Understanding

The main purpose of Jain cosmology is not merely geography. Its deeper purpose is to show:

• the vastness of saṃsāra,
• the rarity of human birth,
• the places where spiritual liberation can be pursued,
• and the importance of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

Jain Dharma focuses more on liberation of the soul than on proving physical geography in modern scientific terms.

Takeaway

Traditional Jain cosmology presents the world in its own sacred cosmological model. It should not be reduced simply to the modern phrase “flat Earth.” Its main message is spiritual: understand the universe, recognize the rarity of human life, and strive for moksha.