Can you share some more details about Antrikshiji
In Jainism, "Antrikshiji" refers to celestial beings or heavenly souls, also known as Vyantar devas. These are one category among the four types of celestial beings (devas) described in Jain cosmology: Bhavanpati (residential), Vyantar (intermediary/space-dwelling), Jyotish (stellar or heavenly bodies), and Vaimanika (higher celestial beings).
Antrikshiji typically refers to the Vyantar devas, who reside in the intermediate space (antariksha) between the earth and the heavens. These celestial beings have certain supernatural abilities and are often depicted as playing a supportive role in the Jain texts, sometimes appearing during significant events in the lives of Tirthankaras or other spiritually important beings.
Key points about Antrikshiji (Vyantar Devas):
- Nature: They are neither liberated souls (Siddhas) nor human beings, but are souls who enjoy heavenly pleasures due to their past karmas.
- Abodes: They reside in specific regions of the universe, particularly in the space between earth and the heavens.
- Types: There are eight main classes of Vyantar devas, such as Kinnaras, Kimpurushas, Gandharvas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, Bhutas, Pisachas, and Nagas.
- Role in Jainism: While they are recognized and respected, Jainism teaches that even these celestial beings are bound by karmic bonds and are subject to the cycle of birth and death (samsara). Liberation (moksha) can only be achieved by shedding all karmas, which is possible only through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
- Worship: Jains do not worship these beings for liberation, but they may be respectfully mentioned in rituals or stories, especially in the context of the lives of Tirthankaras.
If you are referring to a particular person or saint with the name "Antrikshiji," please provide more context. In Jain scriptural and cosmological context, Antrikshiji generally refers to these space-dwelling celestial beings.