Q. With reference to the concept of soul (jiva) in Jain philosophy, consider the following statements:
1.In Jainism, all souls are inherently perfect but are obstructed by karmic matter that binds them to the cycle of rebirth.
2.Jainism holds that only sentient beings possess souls, and non-living things are devoid of consciousness.
3.Jainism distinguishes between internal bondage caused by mental dispositions and material bondage caused by association with matter.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 1 and 3 only

[C] 2 and 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B
Notes:

Explanation:

  • Jainism teaches that every soul is inherently perfect, but this perfection is obscured by karma, which binds the soul to samsara (cycle of rebirth).
  • Jainism holds that both living and non-living entities possess souls, though the level of consciousness varies. So non-living things are not devoid of souls, according to Jain belief.
  • Jainism recognizes two types of bondage:
    Bhava-bandha (internal/mental) – attachment to passions and thoughts
    Dravya-bandha (material) – physical binding with karmic matter.

Source: NCERT and Ancient India – NCERT (R.S.Sharma)

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