Vitalism (Jainism)

Vitalism is at the core of Jain philosophy which separates Jiva (soul or life) from Ajiva (non-soul). According to Jain cosmology, whole universe is made up of six simple substances and is therefore eternal. These substances (dravya) are:-

• Jiva
• Ajiva
  • Time
  • Space
  • Dharma
  • Adharma
  • Matter (Pudgala)

Jiva or soul is distinguished from ajiva, on account of the quality of intelligence with which it is endowed and of which the other substances are devoid.

Overview

According to Jainism, there are ten vitalities or life-principles:-

• The five senses
  • Touch
  • Taste
  • Smell
  • Sight
  • Hearing
• Energy,
• Respiration
• Life-duration
• The organ of speech
• The mind

According to major Jain text, Tattvarthsutra: "The severance of vitalities out of passion is injury".

Because life is to be considered sacred and in every living thing, Jains avoid killing any living creature. They are not only vegetarian, but decline to eat vegetables that grow under the ground, for fear of injuring a living thing when disturbing the ground during harvest. Often Jain monks will sweep the ground in front of them as they walk so as not to step on an unseen creature.

See also

• Jain philosophy
• Ajiva
• Pudgal