Jñāna Yoga | The Yoga of Knowledge

Jnana Yoga

Jñāna Yoga (IAST)
Translation: "the Yoga of knowledge"

A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy
Sanskrit: ज्ञान योग
Transliteration: Jñāna Yoga
Translation: "the path of wisdom; the Yoga of knowledge"

Definition: "One of the principal means to liberation (Mokṣa). According to Advaita Vedānta, it is the means to Self-realization. According to other schools of Vedānta, it is an aid to liberation."

1. Grimes, John (1996). A Concise Dictionary of Indian Philosophy: Sanskrit Terms Defined in English. Albany: State University of New York Press

Jnana Yoga is called the "path of wisdom" or the "Yoga of knowledge." The word Jñāna in Sanskrit means "knowledge."

Jnana Yoga is one of the three classical paths for liberation (Mokṣa) in Hindu philosophy and is intended for those who prefer philosophical reflection. Its ideas are discussed in ancient and medieval era Hindu scriptures such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita. According to the philosophical school of Advaita Vedanta, it is the ultimate means to liberation since it is the only thing which is opposed to ignorance (Ajñāna or Avidyā).

Traditionally, the practitioner studies with the aid of a counselor (Guru), hears the teachings (Śravana), reflects on their meaning (Manana), and meditates (Nididhyāsana) until liberating insights into the nature of one's own Self (Ātman) and its relationship to the metaphysical concept called Brahman is attained.