In Jain Dharma, a subtle lifeform means a living being that is not seen by the ordinary eyes and exists in a very fine, invisible form.

Examples of subtle life-forms in Jainism include:

• Nigoda
• Devas and Narak beings in their non-physical or subtle states
• Certain one-sensed or micro-living beings that are extremely fine

Key idea:

• They still have jiva (soul).
• They can experience birth, death, bondage, and karma.
• Because they are very fine, they are not easily perceived through the senses.

In Jain thought, even subtle lifeforms must be treated with ahimsa and deep reverence, because every jiva is worthy of compassion.