jeev
Meaning
Jeev (जीव | jīva) refers to the individual soul.
Also Known As
- atma (आत्मा | ātmā)
- jeevatma (जीवात्मा | jīvātmā)
Basic Definition
The Jeev is the conscious entity that resides in a body. It is alive and conscious and gives life to the body it lives in.
Key Distinctions
- Jeev ≠ Body → The body is material; the Jeev is conscious
- Jeev ≠ Mind/Intellect → These are instruments; the Jeev is the experiencer
- Jeev ≠ God → The Jeev is dependent; God is independent
Nature (Summary)
- Eternal
- Conscious
- Individual
Related Concepts
Usage Note
In spiritual texts, “Jeev,” “Ātman,” and “Soul” are often used interchangeably, though context may refine meaning.