astikayas

Astikayas is a Jain philosophical concept referring to the fundamental substances or categories of existence. According to Jainism, reality is composed of these astikayas, which are considered eternal and indestructible. There are five astikayas: jiva, ajiva, dharma, adharma, and akasha.

Jiva refers to the soul or consciousness, which is the living principle in all beings. Ajiva refers to non-living matter, encompassing all physical substances. Dharma is the principle of motion, enabling movement in the universe. Adharma is the principle of rest, facilitating stability and stationariness. Akasha is space or ether, the medium in which all other substances exist and move. A sixth astikaya, pudgala (matter), is sometimes considered separately from ajiva, but is fundamentally non-living.

These astikayas are not mere abstract concepts but are considered to have a real, independent existence. They interact with each other, leading to the phenomena observed in the universe. The interplay of these substances forms the basis of the Jain understanding of karma and liberation. Understanding the nature and interactions of the astikayas is crucial for achieving moksha, the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation in Jainism. The classification of astikayas provides a framework for comprehending the entire cosmos and one's place within it.