Vastu-shastra (Vol. I: Hindu Science of Architecture; Vol. II: Hindu Canons of Iconography and Painting) v2.c75.s2.49

v2.c75.s2.49

—**Yakṣas** as a class of demi-gods had existed in popular belief and in literary traditions of the Hindus much earlier than the rise of Jainism. Hence their association with Jain images is an interesting characteristic not only of the Jain pantheon but also of the Jains themselves. Kubera, the lord of Yakṣas and king of Alakā and the treasurer of the Devas is a popular knowledge. Brindavan therefore observes: ‘The Yakṣas are, in Indian tradition, regarded as the presiding spirits over wealth and therefore it is easy to see why Jains who represent a merchantile class specially endeared themselves to the cult and appropriated them specially among the class of their Dundhi-devas or highest divinities.’