ajiva

Ajiva is a term in Jain philosophy meaning non-sentient or non-living. It denotes substances that are non-conscious, without perception or volition, in contrast to jiva, the sentient souls. In Jain cosmology, the universe is composed of two broad categories: jiva and ajiva. Ajiva comprises five categories commonly listed as pudgala (matter), dharma (the principle or medium of motion), adharma (the principle or medium of rest), akasha (space), and kala (time). Some texts also describe karma as a subtle form of matter that binds to jivas and is treated as a separate tattva rather than a member of ajiva.

Ajiva substances possess no consciousness; they do not experience sensation, but they can interact with jiva and with other ajiva. They are governed by natural laws and, in Jain cosmology, contribute to the fabric of the physical world and the process of karma, rebirth, and liberation.

The concept of ajiva is central to Jain ethics and soteriology: by recognizing the non-sentient nature of these substances, and by practicing non-violence and self-discipline, one seeks to limit the accumulation of karmic particles that cling to jiva.

The term ajiva is derived from Sanskrit, combining a- (not) with jiva (living being). See also Jiva, Karma, Jain philosophy.