Forms of existence in Jainism: UPSC Prelims PYQ 2026 — Which is...

Among the four main forms of existence of life recognised in Jainism, which one of the following is not included?

1. Deva (gods)
2. Yaksha (demi-gods)
3. Manushya (humans)
4. Tiryancha (animals and plants)

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• According to Jainism, living beings have been trapped in the cycle of birth and death since time immemorial because of karmas attached to their souls. Liberation is possible only when the soul completely frees itself from these karmic bonds. Upon death, a living being may be reborn into one of four destinies (Gatis):
  1. Manushya: Human Beings
  2. Dev Lok: Celestial Beings
  3. Tiryancha: Animals
  4. Narak: Hellish Being

Answer: (b) Yaksha (demi-gods); Difficulty Level: Medium