Mahashukrakalpa, Mahāśukrakalpa, Mahashukra-kalpa: 1 definition

Introduction
In Jainism
1. General definition
See also

Introduction:

Mahashukrakalpa means something in Jainism, Prakrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

The Sanskrit term Mahāśukrakalpa can be transliterated into English as Mahasukrakalpa or Mahashukrakalpa, using the IAST transliteration scheme (?).

In Jainism

General definition (in Jainism)

Source: Wisdom Library: Jainism

Mahāśukrakalpa (महाशुक्रकल्प) is synonymous for Mahāśukra, referring to a heavenly abode (kalpa) inhabited by Kalpopapanna gods, according to Jain cosmological texts in both the Śvetāmbara and Digambara tradition. The Kalpopapannas (‘those born in the heavens’) represent a sub-species of the Vaimānika gods, which in turn represents the fourth main classification of devas (gods). In the Mahāśukra-kalpa, instead of bodily coition, a more and more refined sort of sexual satisfaction takes its place. The associated leśyā is white. There are ten such kalpas being ruled over by sixty-four Indras (heavenly kings).

In Jain iconography, the associated animal symbol of the Mahāśukrakalpa is a horse (prakrit and sanskrit: haya). These animals are depicted in a cosmological text of the Śvetāmbara tradition known as the Saṃgrahaṇīratna (“jewel of the compilation”), also known as the Trailokyadīpikā (“illumination of the triple world”), written by Śrīcandra in the 12th century.

context information

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, ‘self-reliance’) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

Relevant text

Search found 2 books and stories containing Mahashukrakalpa, Mahāśukrakalpa, Mahashukra-kalpa, Mahāśukra-kalpa, Mahasukrakalpa, Mahasukra-kalpa; (plurals include: Mahashukrakalpas, Mahāśukrakalpas, kalpas, Mahasukrakalpas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Part 5 - Silent questions by two gods < [Chapter 4]

show preview

Verse 4.19 - The sixteen Kalpa, nine Graiveyaka and five Anuttara < [Chapter 4 - The Celestial Beings]