IPA: /əˈdʒiːvə/
KK: /əˈdʒivə/
This term refers to all non-living things or objects that do not possess life.
In Jainism, ajiva includes everything that is not a living being, such as rocks and water.
The word 'ajiva' originates from Sanskrit, where 'a-' (meaning non) and 'jiva' (meaning life or living being) combine to signify the concept of non-living or inanimate matter. Thus, 'ajiva' refers to that which is devoid of life.
Think of 'a-' meaning non and 'jiva' meaning life — this helps you remember that 'ajiva' refers to something that is non-living.