________________
Nyāya-Kusumānjali
[ 4974 rect knowledge are not inconsistent with ( i. e, are inseparably connected with ) facts which are the objects of direct valid knowledge. Oh Lord I Where has the Mimamsaka, who does not admit the existence of an omniscient being, in spite of this being the (conclusive) proof, fled away ? (14)
Notes:-In this world, substances are of different magnitudes, some being so small as an atom ( Anu ), while some being as big as space í Akas'a ). This space has the greatest magnitude. Similarly, knowledge of human beings differ in degrees, therefore there must be some one having the highest degree of knowledge- perfect knowledge. This being is known as omniscient. The existence of an omniscient being can also be established as follows :- Those who deny the possibility of omniscience forget that if testimony were admitted on the point, it would certainly end by proving that which it was adduced to refute, for he who would deny the very possibility of omniscience in others would have to be omniscient himself.
Every inference is based upon direct perception which by supplying a precedent enables us to infer the correctness of a proposition. Everything that is established by inference is an object of direct perception to some one. Hence, it follows that objects such as atoms Karmans, heaven, hell, soul and the like which are connected with general knowledge must be objects of direct perception to some one. This some one is omniscient.
47
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org