Pramananayatattvalokalamkara

work by Devasūri

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July 13, 2026

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The Pramananayatattvalokalamkara is a significant work in Jain philosophy, authored by Devasri. This text delves into the Jain understanding of pramana (valid knowledge) and naya (partial perspectives on reality). Jainism, founded by Vardhamana Mahavira, emphasizes moral conduct and asceticism, rejecting the concept of a creator God.1

Key Jain metaphysical principles include the distinction between soul (jiva) and non-soul (ajiva), the doctrine of anekantavada (nonabsolutism), and the concept of karma as a substance. Jain logicians developed a unique seven-valued logic, where statements can be true, false, indefinite, or combinations thereof, reflecting the multifaceted nature of reality. The work contributes to the rich tradition of Indian logic and epistemology.1

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Indian philosophy
The ultralogical period
…Jaina works, such as Devasuri’s Pramananayatattvalokalamkara (“The Ornament of the Light of Truth of the Different Points of View Regarding the Means of True Knowledge,” 12th century ce) and Prabhachandra’s Prameyakamalamartanda (“The Sun of the Lotus of the Objects of True Knowledge,” 11th century ce), were written during this period.…
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…Jaina works, such as Devasuri’s Pramananayatattvalokalamkara (“The Ornament of the Light of Truth of the Different Points of View Regarding the Means of True Knowledge,” 12th century ce) and Prabhachandra’s Prameyakamalamartanda (“The Sun of the Lotus of the Objects of True Knowledge,” 11th century ce), were written during this period.…
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