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closely connected with the theory of Karma.
Whereas, the Tatwas of 'Samvara, Nirjara and Moksha' are closely connected with the theory of shedding of Karmas. Q32. What is the Jain theory of Knowledge? What are the categories of knowledge? A32. During the discussion of Ratna-Trya (Q.21 and 22) we have noted the importance of Jnana (knowledge). The jiva gets knowledge either directly or indirectly through senses including mind (mind is also a subtler sense object). Knowledge is an essential attribute of consciousness. It is for this reason that Jiva is capable to obtain a direct knowledge without the help of intermediary, physical organs or senses (sight, hearing, touch or smell). The direct and indirect knowledge which Jiva obtains is based on the theories of psychology and para-psychology. The Jain thinkers have categorized knowledge into five: 1. Mati-Jnana 2. Shruta-Jnana 3. Avadhi-Jnana 4. Manah-paryaya Jnana and 5. Kevalya Jnana.
The first two are the indirect knowledge, the other three are direct knowledge. The five jnanas are explained as follow: 1. Mati Jnana: The knowledge obtained through physical senses and mind. 'Mati' means mind. Our physical sensations convey their message to the mind, mind records them and also reasons them out and stores the experience in its sub-conscious or conscious layers. Jiva acts in accordance with this experience. 2. Shruta Jnana: The knowledge derived from what is heard or read.
Shruta' means to hear. In ancient times, scriptural knowledge was conveyed orally for want of the art of writing. 3. Avadhi Jnana: This is the "direct" knowledge. “Avadhi” means limit. When the self gets knowledge of everything which happens within the limited compass of space without the help of outside agency, media or physical senses. 4. Manah Paryaya Jnana - This knowledge enables the self to read the mind of others directly. “Manah" means mind. The power to read and to know the changing currents of the minds of others bel this category.
5. Kevalya Jnana - Here the direct knowledge which the self gets is boundless. It knows everything simultaneously which happens or has happened in the past or will happen in the future to anybody or in anyplace in the whole universe of which our earth and even our solar system are merely a fractional part. To the spiritual pygmies like us this may appear to be a tall claim. But even reason and logic say that this
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