Answer

Yes, Jainism does accept the existence of many heavenly beings often called “gods” or devas. But Jains do not believe in gods as creators, controllers, or ultimate saviors.

This is somewhat similar to many Buddhist traditions, where devas may exist but are not the final refuge or creators of the universe.

Explanation

In Jain Dharma:

• There are many devas and devis living in heavenly realms.
• They are powerful and long-lived compared to humans.
• But they are still souls bound by karma.
• They are not liberated beings.
• They too must eventually be reborn when their heavenly lifespan ends.

Jainism teaches that the universe has no creator God. It is eternal and functions according to natural laws, especially the law of karma.

The highest beings in Jainism are not creator gods, but the Arihants and Siddhas:

• Arihants are enlightened beings who have destroyed the inner enemies like attachment, anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
• Siddhas are completely liberated souls who have left the cycle of birth and death forever.

Jains worship Tirthankars not because they created the world, but because they showed the path to liberation.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, devas may be respected, but they are not the goal. The true goal is moksha, liberation from karma and rebirth.

Even a heavenly birth is temporary. A soul must overcome attachment, violence, ignorance, and karma to become liberated.

Takeaway

Jains do believe in many divine/heavenly beings, but not as supreme creator gods. Like in Buddhism, these beings are powerful but still within samsara. In Jainism, the highest ideal is not becoming a god, but becoming a liberated soul — a Siddha.