Define Gyanalakshan.

Gyanalakshan, a term from Indian philosophy, particularly in the context of Nyaya-Vaisheshika, refers to the definition or characteristic of knowledge. In the Nyaya tradition, defining the nature and attributes of knowledge is crucial for understanding epistemology and the sources of valid knowledge (pramana).

Key points related to Gyanalakshan include:

1. Nature of Knowledge: Gyanalakshan involves articulating the inherent characteristics or defining features of knowledge. It explores what distinguishes knowledge from other mental states and how it manifests in human cognition.

2. Validity and Reliability: The concept is central to discussions on the validity and reliability of knowledge. It aids in establishing criteria for determining when knowledge is genuine, accurate, and trustworthy.

3. Diversity of Perspectives: Different philosophical schools may propose distinct Gyanalakshanas based on their epistemological frameworks. For example, the Nyaya school might emphasize perception and inference as primary sources of knowledge, each with its own set of defining features.

4. Relation to Pramana: Gyanalakshan is closely related to the concept of pramana, which refers to the means or instruments of valid knowledge. The characteristics identified through Gyanalakshan help in recognizing and validating the various pramanas.

In essence, Gyanalakshan plays a crucial role in the philosophical inquiry into the nature of knowledge, contributing to the understanding of how knowledge is defined, acquired, and distinguished from other mental states in the pursuit of epistemological clarity.