अधोलोक या नरक का स्वरूप
By Prof. R. R. Nandrawakar
Summary
Based solely on the provided text, this PDF is an article from "Gyan Deshna" journal (Year 1, Issue 1, January-June 2008, pages 69-72) titled "Adholok Ya Narak Ka Swaroop" (The Nature of the Underworld or Hell) by Prof. R. R. Nandgaonkar. It presents a detailed description of the underworld (Adholok) according to Jain scriptures, compiled from Acharya Umaswami's Tattvartha Sutra and its commentaries, as well as the Chhahdhala. The article explains that the universe (Lokakash) is divided into three parts: the upper world (Urdhvalok) for gods, the middle world (Madhyalok) for humans and animals, and the lower world (Adholok) for infernal beings (Naraki). The term "Naraki" is defined as those who do not find pleasure in any aspect of existence and are born in hell due to the rise of Narakagati karma, which is caused by intense engagement in violence, falsehood, theft, unchastity, and possessiveness. The Adholok is described as being shaped like a winnowing basket, 7 Raju high, 1 Raju thick, and 7 Raju wide. It contains seven hellish lands (Ratnaprabha, Sharkaraprabha, Balukaprabha, Pankaprabha, Dhumaprabha, Tamaprabha, and Mahatamaprabha), each with a specific name (Vansha, Dhamm, Megha, Anjana, Arishta, Madhava, and Madhavi). These seven hells occupy 6 Raju, with the final 1 Raju reserved for Nigoda beings. The article details the structure of these hells, including their dimensions, the types of beings residing in each layer, and the 84 lakh hellish ab
Conclusion
This analysis of the Jain cosmological text details the structure and suffering within the seven infernal realms (adholoka). The implications are profound for adherents, as the vivid descriptions of physical, mental, and environmental torments serve as a powerful deterrent against sinful actions. The text explicitly links specific karmic causes—such as intense attachment, violence, and deceit—to rebirth in these hells. The outcome is a clear ethical framework: by understanding the mechanics of karmic bondage and the resulting unbearable pain, individuals are motivated to cultivate detachment and pursue righteous conduct. Furthermore, the document provides a path to liberation, noting that even beings from the lower hells can attain right faith and eventual salvation, reinforcing the Jain doctrine of spiritual potential for all souls. Ultimately, this serves not merely as a geographical description but as a moral compass guiding the faithful away from suffering and toward spiritual progress.