Answer

In Jain Dharma, Pudgal means matter. It is one of the six eternal substances called Dravyas.

The word Pudgal comes from:

• Purana – coming together, combining
• Galana – separating, breaking apart

So, Pudgal is that which can combine and separate.

Explanation

Pudgal includes all forms of matter, from extremely subtle particles to gross physical objects.

Examples of Pudgal include:

• Body
• Food
• Water
• Air
• Sound
• Light
• Karmic matter

In Jain philosophy, even karma is understood as a very subtle form of Pudgal that attaches to the soul due to passions and activities.

Pudgal has qualities such as:

• Colour
• Taste
• Smell
• Touch

These qualities distinguish matter from the soul.

Spiritual Understanding

The soul is conscious, while Pudgal is non-conscious. Bondage happens when the soul becomes associated with karmic Pudgal.

Through right faith, right knowledge, right conduct, austerity, and detachment, the soul gradually separates from karmic Pudgal and moves toward liberation.

Takeaway

Pudgal means matter in Jain Dharma. It is non-living, changeable, and capable of combining and separating, while the soul is conscious and eternal.