Omniscience refers to the quality or state of having complete and unlimited knowledge or awareness about everything. Derived from the Latin word "omnis" meaning "all," and "scientia" meaning "knowledge," omniscience is the attribute of knowing everything that can be known.
In religious contexts, omniscience is often ascribed to a supreme being, such as God, who possesses infinite knowledge about the past, present, and future, as well as an understanding of all aspects of reality, including thoughts, intentions, and emotions. This concept is frequently associated with the Abrahamic religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, where an all-knowing deity monitors and comprehends all.
In philosophical discussions, omniscience is explored from a theoretical and conceptual standpoint, examining the nature and limitations of knowledge. While some argue that omniscience is logically impossible due to the paradoxes and contradictions it may entail, others propose that it could exist as a theoretical concept, even if it is not attainable for humans.
In literature and storytelling, omniscience is a narrative technique used by authors to present a perspective that possesses extensive knowledge about the characters, events, and circumstances within the story. It allows the narrator to provide insights and details that the characters themselves may not be aware of, granting the reader a comprehensive understanding of the plot.
Overall, omniscience is a concept that encompasses the notion of possessing all knowledge or having a comprehensive understanding of everything, whether it pertains to religious beliefs, philosophical inquiry, or literary narration.
