Here is a simple Jain perspective on the difference between Dhyan and Keval Gyan:

• Dhyan (Dhyana)

- What it is: Meditation or contemplative practice aimed at purifying the mind and developing inner focus. It is a preparatory or supportive spiritual discipline. - Why it matters: Through dhyan, a seeker gradually reduces impurities (karmas) and sharpens discrimination (vivek), paving the way for higher spiritual faculties. - Nature: It is a practice or state of mind, not ultimate knowledge by itself. It can be pursued by many souls as part of their sādhanā, both lay and mendicant.

• Keval Gyan (Kevala Jnana)

- What it is: Absolute, omniscient knowledge—perfect, direct understanding of theself and the true nature of all tattvas (fundamental realities). It is beyond doubt and perception. - Why it matters: It is the complete realization that ends the cycle of birth and karma for a samaṇ (monk) who has burned away all karmas. It is the goal of a kevali. - Nature: It is not a practice but a realized state or event. It is one of the highest spiritual accomplishments in Jainism, attained after intense austerities and the shedding of karmas.

Key difference in a sentence:

• Dhyan is a disciplined inner practice that helps purify and prepare the mind.
• Keval Gyan is the final, complete knowledge realized when all karmas are shed.

Note on tradition:

• Across Digambara and Śvetāmbara traditions, the core idea remains: dhyan is a path or method, while keval jñāna is the ultimate, complete knowledge. If you’d like, I can explain how each tradition describes specific meditative practices and the process toward keval jñāna.