Answer

In Jain Dharma, knowledge means the soul’s ability to know and understand reality.

Knowledge is not considered something external. It is a natural quality of the soul. When karmas cover the soul, knowledge becomes limited. When karmas are removed, the soul’s knowledge becomes pure and complete.

Explanation

Jain philosophy explains that every soul has the quality of jñāna — knowledge.

There are different levels of knowledge, such as:

• Mati Jñāna — knowledge through the senses and mind
• Śruta Jñāna — knowledge gained through words, teachings, and scriptures
• Avadhi Jñāna — limited clairvoyant knowledge
• Manaḥparyāya Jñāna — knowledge of others’ thoughts
• Kevala Jñāna — perfect, infinite knowledge

The highest form of knowledge is Kevala Jñāna, attained by an enlightened soul when all knowledge-obscuring karmas are completely destroyed.

Spiritual Understanding

In Jain Dharma, true knowledge is not only information. It helps the soul understand:

• What is right and wrong
• What is soul and non-soul
• How karma binds the soul
• How liberation can be attained

Knowledge becomes spiritually meaningful when it leads to right faith, right conduct, and liberation.

Takeaway

Knowledge is the natural light of the soul. In Jain Dharma, the purpose of knowledge is to remove ignorance, reduce attachment, and guide the soul toward moksha.