Question

Assertion (A): According to Jainism, the nature of knowledge (Jnana) is "Sva-para-prakashakam".
Reason (R): Knowledge is the essence of the soul, and it is capable of knowing the entire universe (Lok-Aloka).

• (A) and (R) are both true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• (A) and (R) are both true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
• (A) is true but (R) is false.
• (A) is false but (R) is true.

Hint:

Always remember: Soul = Consciousness = Knowledge. If knowledge is the soul's nature, and the soul is self-aware, knowledge must be self-aware (Sva-prakashaka).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Jainism posits that consciousness is the soul's nature. Knowledge (Jnana) is not an external quality but the soul's inherent ability. This ability allows the soul to reveal itself and reveal external objects simultaneously.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Assertion (A) analysis: As established in Jain logic (Nyaya), knowledge is Sva-para-prakashakam. It illuminates the "Self" (knower) and the "Other" (object known) in the same act. This is the official Jain definition of knowledge. Thus, (A) is true.
2. Reason (R) analysis: The soul is composed of infinite knowledge (Ananta Jnana). When the obscuring karmas are removed, this inherent knowledge can reflect the entire Loka (cosmos) and Aloka (beyond the cosmos) effortlessly. This "reflective" capacity is precisely why it is both self and other illuminating. The reason for knowledge being self-and-other-illuminating is its status as the soul's infinite essence. Thus, (R) is true and explains (A).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) provides the correct reasoning for the nature of knowledge.