Correct Option (b)
Jainism espouses the doctrine of Jiva, which posits that souls are present not only in animal and plant life but also in various natural objects traditionally considered inanimate, such as rocks, running water, fire, and air. This belief underscores the Jain principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) and reverence for all forms of existence, forming a core aspect of its metaphysical framework.
Incorrect Options:
Buddhism: The central tenet of Buddhism is Anatta (non-self), which denies the existence of a permanent, unchanging soul (atman) in any being or phenomenon. Therefore, it does not attribute souls to non-living objects.
Shaivism: As a major tradition within Hinduism, Shaivism centers on Shiva as the Supreme Being. While it recognizes the Atman (individual soul) and Brahman (universal consciousness), its philosophical system does not extend the concept of a soul to inanimate natural objects in the manner described by Jainism.
Vaishnavism: This Hindu tradition focuses on the worship of Vishnu. Similar to Shaivism, Vaishnavism acknowledges the Atman as distinct from the physical body, but its theological and metaphysical understanding does not include the attribution of souls to non-living entities like rocks or water.