AJIVA Meaning and
Definition
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Ajiva is a concept in Jainism, an ancient Indian philosophy and religion. Derived from the Sanskrit words “a,” meaning absence of, and “jiva,” meaning soul or life force, ajiva refers to all aspects of existence that are devoid of consciousness or vitality. It encompasses everything that is non-living, inanimate, or lifeless in nature.
According to Jain beliefs, the universe consists of two broad categories: jiva (living beings) and ajiva (non-living entities). Ajiva includes five main categories—dharmastikaya (medium of motion), adharmastikaya (medium of rest), akasha (space), pudgala (matter), and kala (time). Each category possesses its own specific characteristics and is integral to the functioning and organization of the cosmos.
Dharmastikaya is the medium through which all objects move, while adharmastikaya is the medium through which they rest. Akasha represents the infinite space in which objects exist. Pudgala refers to the matter and energy that compose physical entities, and kala refers to time or duration.
The concept of ajiva in Jainism underpins the understanding of the interrelation and interdependence of all elements of existence, both living and non-living. It emphasizes the transient nature of matter, asserting that all non-living entities are subject to change and decay, undergoing various transformations over time.
In conclusion, ajiva in Jainism encompasses all non-living aspects of existence, including space, time, matter, and the medium of motion and rest. It serves as a fundamental concept in Jain philosophy, highlighting the interconnectedness and impermanence of all elements of the universe.
Common Misspellings for AJIVA
- zjiva
- wjiva
- qjiva
- ajuva
- ajjva
- aj9va
- aj8va
- ajiga
- ajivz
- ajivs
- ajivw
- ajivq
- zajiva
- azjiva
- sajiva
- wajiva
- awjiva
- qajiva
- aqjiva
- ahjiva
Etymology of AJIVA
The word "ajiva" has its origins in the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit. It is a compound word composed of two parts: "a" and "jiva".
The prefix "a" in Sanskrit typically denotes negation, absence, or without. Thus, it negates the meaning of the word it is attached to.
The second part of the word, "jiva", means life or soul in Sanskrit. It refers to the individual, living essence or spirit that is believed to animate all living beings.
Therefore, "ajiva" in the context of the Jain philosophy denotes that which is without life or without a soul. In Jainism, "ajiva" refers to the nonliving or inanimate aspects of the universe, such as matter, space, time, and other elements that do not possess consciousness or sentience.
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