In Jain philosophy, each jīva (soul) has independent existence because it is a separate, eternal, conscious substance.

Why it is independent:

1. Each soul is individual

- Every soul has its own consciousness, karma, bondage, and liberation. - No soul is created from another soul.

1. Soul is inherently separate from body

- The body changes, but the soul remains the same conscious entity. - Birth and death belong to the body, not to the soul.

1. Karma is individually bound

- Each soul binds its own karma through its own actions, thoughts, speech, and conduct. - Therefore, each soul experiences its own results.

1. Liberation is also individual

- One soul’s liberation does not make all souls liberated. - Every soul must purify itself and destroy its own karma.

Jain view in essence

Jainism teaches that souls are ananta, separate, and independent, though they may be similar in nature. They are independent because consciousness is not shared as one common soul; it exists in each jīva by itself.

Simple example

Just as many lamps can each have their own flame, many souls exist separately, each with its own consciousness.

So, in Jain Dharma, the soul is independent because it is an eternal individual conscious reality, not a part of another soul and not dependent on a creator.