Nyaya Science of Thought

Author(s): Champat Rai Jain
Publisher: ZZZ Unknown

Page 44

NYAYA.
CHAPTER XIX.
A being can have from one to four different kinds of knowledge, but if he have only one, it must be kevala jñâna (omniscience); if two, mati and śruta; if three, mati, śruta and either avadhi (clairvoyance) or manaḥparyaya (telepathy); and if four, then all except the first named. The reason for this is that mati and śruta jñanas are enjoyed by all excepting those who have acquired omniscience. Avadhi and manaḥparyaya arise from the observance of rules of conduct laid down for the guidance of ascetics, so that those who acquire them enjoy them along with the other two (mati and śruta). * Kevala jñana however, arises only when the soul completely withdraws its attention inwards, and, therefore implies a cessation of the functioning of the outward-turned senses and intellect.
Avadhi and manaḥparyaya, being super-sensuous, that is independent of senses and mind, are but limited forms of omniscience, and become merged in it when it arises.
* Avadhi jñâna, according to the Scripture, is also enjoyed by great personages, such as Tirthankaras, from their birth. In their case it arises as the result of the past good karmas of their souls.