Jiva in Jainism means the living, conscious, sentient soul. It is eternal and distinct from the non-living (ajiva). Each jiva has its own infinite consciousness and potential for knowledge, perception, and bliss.

Key points:

• Jiva is bound by karma when it acts with passions and attachments.
• The goal is to purify the jiva through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (the three jewels) to achieve liberation (moksha) and pure bliss.
• The concept is shared by Digambaras and Śvetāmbaras, though there are some doctrinal nuances in interpretations.

If you’d like, I can share the traditional Sanskrit/Prakrit terms or quote a short verse about jiva from Jain scriptures.