Question

Which of the following best describes the Ajivika belief regarding the soul?

• A. The soul is non-existent, and liberation is achieved through mental discipline alone.
• B. The soul is bound by karma and must undergo purification through ascetic practices.
• C. Every being possesses an eternal soul, but its fate is entirely governed by predetermined destiny.
• D. The soul is a temporary illusion that dissolves upon enlightenment.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Every being possesses an eternal soul, but its fate is entirely governed by predetermined destiny.

The Ajivikas believed in the existence of an eternal soul in all beings, distinguishing them from some other schools that denied a permanent self. However, their doctrine of Niyati held that the destiny of this soul was entirely fixed and predetermined—human effort or moral actions had no influence on its path or transformation.