Answer

In Jain Dharma, the distance between the Earth and heaven is not explained like a modern physical distance in kilometers or miles.

Jain cosmology describes the universe as having different realms:

• Madhya-loka – the middle world, where humans, animals, and plants live.
• Urdhva-loka – the upper world, where heavenly beings live.
• Adho-loka – the lower world, where hellish beings live.

Heavenly realms are above the human world within Urdhva-loka.

Explanation

According to Jain tradition, heaven is not outside the universe, nor is it a permanent place of liberation. It is a realm where souls are born due to punya karma, or meritorious karma.

The exact measurements of Jain cosmology are traditionally given in vast units such as rajju and yojana, not ordinary earthly measurements. These distances are extremely vast and symbolic of the immense structure of the Jain universe.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, the main focus is not on physically reaching heaven. Heaven is still within saṃsāra, the cycle of birth and death.

Even heavenly beings must eventually be reborn when their lifespan ends.

The true goal is moksha, liberation from all karma, which is beyond heaven.

Takeaway

Earth is in Madhya-loka, heaven is in Urdhva-loka, and the distance between them is described in Jain cosmology as immensely vast. Spiritually, Jain Dharma teaches that liberation is higher than heaven.