what are the 5 types of knowledge in jainism?

In Jainism, knowledge (jnana) is classified into five distinct types, each representing a higher level of spiritual awareness and perception. These five types are:

1. Mati Jnana (Sensory Knowledge):

This is knowledge acquired through the five senses and the mind. It includes perception, memory, inference, and reasoning—essentially, all forms of knowledge gained through direct or indirect sensory experience.

1. Shruta Jnana (Scriptural Knowledge):

This is knowledge gained by listening to or studying scriptures, teachings, and other verbal sources. It includes understanding through language, words, and scriptures.

1. Avadhi Jnana (Clairvoyant Knowledge):

This is direct knowledge of material objects without the help of senses or scriptures. It is a form of extra-sensory perception that allows one to know things at a distance or things hidden from normal sensory observation.

1. Manahparyaya Jnana (Telepathic Knowledge):

This is the ability to directly know the thoughts of others. It is more advanced than Avadhi Jnana and is accessible only to spiritually advanced beings.

1. Kevala Jnana (Omniscient Knowledge):

This is perfect, infinite, and complete knowledge. It is attained by a soul that has removed all karmic impurities. Kevala Jnana is the highest form of knowledge and is possessed by the Tirthankaras and liberated souls (Siddhas).

These five types of knowledge represent the progression of the soul towards ultimate liberation (moksha) in Jain philosophy.