Significance of Kevalin
In Jainism, the term Kevalin refers to an individual who has achieved the highest state of knowledge and enlightenment, signifying complete spiritual realization and freedom from karma. This title is associated with beings such as Mahavira, Rishabha, and others who attained omniscience. It highlights a state where one's soul is liberated from karmic bonds and can be categorized as sayoga kevalin or ayoga kevalin. Ultimately, Kevalin represents the pinnacle of spiritual attainment in Jain philosophy.
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Jain concept of 'Kevalin'
In Jainism, Kevalin denotes an enlightened being with complete knowledge and liberation, exemplified by figures like Mahavira and Rishabha. It represents a soul's achievement of omniscience, transcending karma and attaining spiritual realization.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A term referring to one who has attained omniscience, deserving homage and respect.[1] (2) An individual in the fourteenth gunasthana who has achieved a state of complete suppression of activity.[2] (3) An assembly of spiritually enlightened beings recognized in the text.[3] (4) A term describing an accomplished, liberated soul that has attained ultimate knowledge and freedom from karmic bonds.[4]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) A term used for an individual who has attained the highest state of knowledge and enlightenment, which Rishabha reached.[5] (2) A title indicating an individual who possesses infinite and complete knowledge, which Mahavira achieved.[6] (3) The title for one who achieves Kevala or the highest state of knowledge, a designation Parshva held for a significant duration.[7] (4) A term describing a person who has achieved ultimate knowledge and liberation, which applies to the Arhat Arishtanemi's spiritual journey.[8]
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) An individual who is to be perfected in this very life, representing a state of spiritual realization and freedom from karma.[9]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Term used to describe someone who has attained Kevala, an omniscient being, such as Mahavira after achieving enlightenment.[10]