“Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other nat

Question

“Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects.” The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India?

Accepted Answer

Jainism adheres to the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) in its most stringent form, believing that all living beings, and indeed inanimate objects like rocks and water, possess souls (jivas). This doctrine extends to the concept that even natural elements like rocks (defined as 'assamurdha' or un-animated) and flowing water ('apkay') have souls, requiring extreme care to avoid harming them. This animistic belief system is central to Jain philosophy and distinguishes it from other contemporary religions.