Sruta Jnana

Sruta Jnana in Jainism is the understanding of the meaning of these symbols. It refers to the knowledge derived through words. In language, symbols are used to convey meaning. It is produced by the words which one hears. Verbal Testimony is that cognition which is preceded by Empirical Knowledge. This type of Paroksa Jnana arises in the wake of empirical knowledge.

Knowledge is to be gained from authoritative books and words of great sages. Perusal of authoritative books and listening to the sermons of saints are essential for this kind of knowledge. The preachings of the Jain Tirthankaras fall in the category of Sruta Jnana.

Classification of Sruta Jnana
Sruta Jnana is divided into two categories:
1. Laukika - Empirical Testimony: This is the knowledge based on the words of some authoritative person or regarding ordinary things.
2. Sastraja - Scriptural Testimony: This is the knowledge based on or derived through the scriptures.

Sruta Jnana is always preceded by Mati Jnana and is also dependent on Mati Jnana. It is perceived by "Mana" or Mind. Mati and Sruta are the two indirect kinds of cognition.