Significance of Five Knowledges
The Five Knowledges varies in interpretation across different traditions. In Jainism, it encompasses five types of knowledge obscured by karma, including mati, shruta, avadhi, manahparyaya, and kevala. Mahayana Buddhism views it as essential insights for spiritual growth, while Theravada identifies it with advanced understanding attained by ascetics, reflecting the growth of a Bodhisatta. This signifies not only intellectual but also spiritual development and a profound comprehension of the nature of reality, crucial for reaching enlightenment.
In Dutch: Vijf kennissen; In Finnish: Viisi Tietoa; In Spanish: Cinco conocimientos
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Five Knowledges'
The Five Knowledges in Buddhism symbolize spiritual growth through higher understanding, representing insights necessary for development, achieving advanced states by the Bodhisatta, and reflecting a deep comprehension of reality sought by advanced practitioners.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The higher states of understanding and wisdom attained by the ascetic, symbolizing spiritual growth.[1] (2) Refers to the advanced understanding the Bodhisatta achieved, signifying his intellectual and spiritual growth as he renounced worldly desires.[2] (3) Spiritual attainments that a Bodhisatta strives to achieve, reflecting a deep understanding of the nature of reality.[3] (4) A set of special insights attainable by those who have reached advanced stages of spiritual development within Buddhism.[4]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A set of insights or understandings necessary for spiritual development.[5]
Jain concept of 'Five Knowledges'
In Jainism, the Five Knowledges refer to five types of knowledge (mati, shruta, avadhi, manahparyaya, and kevala) hindered by knowledge-obscuring karma, influencing spiritual understanding and perception.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The five types of knowledge that are obscured by knowledge-obscuring-karma, which include mati, shruta, avadhi, manahparyaya, and kevala.[6]