In Jainism, all substances in the universe are classified broadly into two categories: Jiv (Soul) and Ajiv (Non-soul).

1. Jiv (Living beings or Souls)

• Definition: Jiv refers to the conscious, living entities that possess life and consciousness.
• Characteristics: Possess knowledge (gyan), perception (darshan), bliss (sukh), and energy (virya).
• Types: Jivs are further divided based on the number of senses they possess:

- Ekendriya Jiv: One-sensed beings (e.g., earth, water, fire, air, plants). - Dwendriya Jiv: Two-sensed beings (e.g., worms). - Trindriya Jiv: Three-sensed beings (e.g., ants). - Chaturindriya Jiv: Four-sensed beings (e.g., bees). - Panchendriya Jiv: Five-sensed beings (e.g., humans, animals, heavenly beings, hellish beings).

2. Ajiv (Non-living substances)

• Definition: Ajiv refers to all non-living, non-conscious substances.
• Types: Jainism identifies five kinds of Ajiv:

1. Pudgala (Matter): Includes all physical matter and energy. 2. Dharma (Medium of Motion): The principle that allows movement. 3. Adharma (Medium of Rest): The principle that allows beings to rest. 4. Akash (Space): The substance that accommodates all other substances. 5. Kala (Time): The substance which is the cause of continuity and change.

Summary Table:

| Category | Jiv (Soul) | Ajiv (Non-soul) | |----------|------------------------|--------------------------------------------------| | Nature | Living, conscious | Non-living, non-conscious | | Types | One to five-sensed | Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akash, Kala |

This distinction is fundamental in Jain metaphysics and forms the basis of the Jain worldview.