Previous   Next
Home » Images » 0045 Pictures From History » CPA0022397

India: Jain cosmological map called Adhai-dvipa or 'Two and a Half Continents'. Painting on cloth, Gujarat, c. 1810

India: Jain cosmological map called Adhai-dvipa or 'Two and a Half Continents'. Painting on cloth, Gujarat, c. 1810

Jain cosmology is the description of the shape and functioning of the physical and metaphysical Universe (loka) and its constituents (such as living, matter, space, time etc.) according to Jainism, which includes the canonical Jain texts, commentaries and the writings of the Jain philosopher-monks.

Of all the dvipa (islands) Jambudvipa is very significant because it is in the center of the whole universe. Jambudwip is surrounded by a very high and broad wall. The wall is supposed to be made from precious gold, diamonds and such other jewels. Even the grill work is done by gold and diamonds. There are four mighty gates, protected by deities.

Jambudvipa continent has six mighty mountains, dividing the continent into seven zones (kshetra).

Quick links to other images in this gallery: