In Jainism, the concept of deities (devatas and devis) is distinct from that in many other religions. Jainism does not believe in a creator god or a supreme deity who governs the universe or grants liberation. Instead, the focus is on individual effort, self-discipline, and the path to liberation (moksha) through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

Here’s an overview of Jain views on deities:

1. Tirthankaras

• The most revered beings in Jainism are the Tirthankaras. They are not gods but perfected human beings who have attained omniscience (kevala jnana) and have shown the path to liberation.
• There are 24 Tirthankaras in each time cycle. The current cycle’s first Tirthankara is Rishabhanatha (Adinath) and the 24th is Mahavira.
• Tirthankaras are worshipped as ideals and spiritual guides, not as creators or controllers of the universe.

2. Heavenly Beings (Devas and Devis)

• Jain cosmology describes various heavenly beings (devas and devis), but these are souls who have accumulated good karma and are reborn in heavenly realms.
• These deities enjoy pleasures and powers, but they too are bound by karma and are not liberated.
• Devotees may sometimes offer respect to these beings, but Jains do not seek liberation or blessings from them, as only self-effort can lead to moksha.

3. Yakshas and Yakshinis

• Each Tirthankara is associated with one or more attendant deities called Yakshas (male) and Yakshinis (female).
• They are considered protectors of the Jina’s teachings and images. In temples, their images may be placed alongside those of the Tirthankaras.
• The worship of Yakshas and Yakshinis is more prominent in some Jain sects and regions, often for worldly benefits, but it is considered secondary to the veneration of Tirthankaras.

4. Worship Practices

• Main worship is directed towards the Tirthankaras, focusing on their virtues, teachings, and example.
• Rituals include offerings, prayers, and devotional hymns (stutis and stavans), but these are meant to inspire one to follow the path of self-purification.
• Jain prayers often include a universal salutation (Namokar Mantra) that reveres the Arihants (liberated souls), Siddhas (fully liberated souls), Acharyas (spiritual leaders), Upadhyayas (teachers), and Sadhus (monks).

5. Philosophical View

• Jainism teaches that all souls, including those of deities, have the potential to attain liberation.
• The ultimate goal is to become a Siddha—an enlightened, liberated soul free from the cycle of birth and death.

6. No Creator God

• Jainism rejects the idea of a creator god. The universe is eternal, operating under natural laws.
• The path to liberation is based on self-realization, not divine grace.

Summary Table

| Category | Description | Status in Jainism | |------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------| | Tirthankaras | Perfected humans, spiritual guides | Most revered, not gods | | Devas/Devis | Heavenly beings enjoying pleasures | Respected, not worshipped for moksha| | Yakshas/Yakshinis| Attendant deities of Tirthankaras | Sometimes worshipped | | Siddhas | Liberated souls free from karma | Ultimate goal |

In summary: Deities in Jainism are not creators or liberators, but rather souls in various stages of existence. True worship is the reverence of virtues and the path shown by the Tirthankaras, with the goal of self-liberation.