noun
- In Jainism, all non-living matter and energy; the opposite of jiva (soul or living substance).
Usage: religious/philosophical term; used in Jain philosophy and theology
Examples
- In Jain cosmology, ajiva includes all material substances such as earth, water, fire, and air.
- The distinction between jiva and ajiva is fundamental to understanding Jain metaphysics.
- Ajiva, or non-living matter, is believed to be eternal and uncreated in Jainism.
- Jain philosophers argue that ajiva lacks consciousness and the capacity for spiritual liberation.