Ajiva tatva meaning

In Jainism, Ajiva Tatva refers to the category of non-living substances or non-sentient realities. The term "Ajiva" literally means "without life" (a = without, jiva = life/soul). According to Jain philosophy, the universe is made up of six fundamental substances (dravyas), which are divided into two main categories: Jiva (soul or living beings) and Ajiva (non-living entities).

Ajiva Tatva includes the following five types of non-living substances:

1. Pudgala (Matter): Physical matter, including atoms, which forms all material objects and bodies.
2. Dharma (Medium of Motion): The medium that allows motion, not to be confused with the moral law.
3. Adharma (Medium of Rest): The medium that allows rest or stillness.
4. Akasha (Space): The substance that provides space for all other substances to exist.
5. Kala (Time): The substance which brings about change and transformation.

Together, these five, along with Jiva, constitute the six dravyas described in Jain metaphysics. Ajiva is essential to Jain cosmology as it helps explain how souls interact with the universe and progress on the path to liberation (moksha).