Definition

Noun: 1. The state or quality of having complete or infinite knowledge; knowing everything. This term describes the attribute of possessing all knowledge, past, present, and future. It is most commonly used in theological and philosophical contexts to describe a divine being.

Usage and Examples

• Theological Context: The central attribute of many conceptions of God is omniscience.
  • Theologians debate the nature of divine omniscience and human free will.
• Philosophical Context: Used to discuss the concept or possibility of total knowledge.
  • The philosopher argued that true omniscience is logically impossible for any being within the universe.
• Figurative/Humorous Context: Used informally to describe someone who acts as if they know everything.
  • He spoke with an air of infallible omniscience, though he was often wrong.

Advanced Usage

• "The Omniscience": When capitalized, it can be used as a title or epithet for a deity, synonymous with "God."
  • They prayed for guidance from the Omniscience.

Variants and Related Words

• Omniscient (adjective): Having complete or unlimited knowledge; all-knowing.
  • An omniscient narrator knows the thoughts of every character.
• Omnisciently (adverb): In an omniscient manner.

Synonyms

• All-knowingness
• Infinite knowledge
• Total awareness

Antonyms

• Ignorance
• Nescience

Related Concepts and Phrases

• Divine Attributes: Omniscience is often discussed alongside other divine attributes like omnipotence (all-powerful) and omnipresence (all-present).
• Paradox of Free Will: A common philosophical problem exploring the conflict between divine omniscience and human freedom of choice.

Noun

1. the state of being omniscient; having infinite knowledge