Jaina Conception of Space and Time
By Nagin J Shah
Summary
This essay surveys the Jaina conception of space and time. Space (akasha) is treated as an independent substance that accommodates all other substances. It is divided into the inhabited world and the empty non‑world. Time (kala) is not a substance but a measure of change, with gross and subtle forms. Jain cosmology describes endless cycles of progress and decline (utsarpini and avasarpini), each divided into six epochs characterized by varying happiness and spiritual potential. The article contrasts the Jaina view with Vedic, Buddhist and Nyaya‑Vaisheshika theories, and explains units of time from instant (samaya) to great cycles.
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Conclusion
By presenting space as a substance and time as a series of modes, the Jaina view reconciles permanence and change. The cyclic vision of time underscores moral optimism: every era of decline is followed by renewal, offering fresh opportunities for liberation. Understanding this cosmology helps practitioners situate their spiritual efforts within a vast, orderly universe.