kevalgyan + god + gnans + types
Keval Jnana (केवल ज्ञान) is the supreme, omniscient knowledge in Jainism. It is the complete understanding of all karmas, with no limitations of space or time, and it is attained by a liberated soul (a Siddha) or an Arihant/Jina who has rid themselves of all karmas. In Jainism there is no creator god who grants this knowledge; it is realized by the soul through its own purification and enlightenment.
Gnana (knowledge) in Jainism is classified into five kinds (Panch Jnana):
- Mati Jnana (Sensory Knowledge): knowledge gained through the senses and mind. It is indirect and can be correct or incorrect.
- Shruta Jnana (Scriptural/Verbal Knowledge): knowledge obtained from scriptures and teachers; also indirect.
- Avadhi Jnana ( clairvoyant knowledge): direct knowledge of distant or subtle objects without the senses or scriptures.
- Manahparyaya Jnana (Telepathic Knowledge): knowledge of the thoughts of others; direct and very refined.
- Kevala Jnana (Omniscient Knowledge): complete and unlimited knowledge of all things—past, present, and future.
Where Kevala Jnana fits: Mati and Shruta are considered indirect (paroksha) knowledge; Avadhi, Manahparyaya, and Kevala are direct (pratyaksa) knowledge. Kevala Jnana is the ultimate goal on the path to liberation.
Note on God: In Jain doctrine, there is no creator god who grants kevala jnana. Arihants and Siddhas attain kevala jnana through their own spiritual evolution and removal of karmas.