Jnana yoga is one of the four main paths of yoga, alongside Karma Yoga, Bhakti Yoga, and Raja Yoga. It is also known as the path of knowledge or wisdom, and its goal is to attain knowledge of the true nature of reality through the practice of meditation, self-inquiry, and contemplation. The word "jnana" means knowledge or awareness, and "yoga" refers to the unity of the Self with reality.

In Jnana yoga, the mind is used to inquire into its own nature and to transcend the minds identification with its thoughts and ego. The fundamental goal of Jnana yoga is to become liberated from the illusionary world of maya (self-limiting thoughts and perceptions) and to achieve the union of the inner Self (Atman) with the oneness of all life (Brahman) .

Jnana yoga is considered the most difficult of the four main paths of yoga, requiring great strength of will and intellect. It is recommended that one practice Hatha Yoga, Karma Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga as prerequisites.

The concept of Jnana yoga was first described in the Bhagavad Gita, an ancient Hindu text which focuses on liberation from suffering. The path of Jnana yoga was promulgated by Adi Shankaracharya, an Indian philosopher who consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta around 700 CE.

Jnana yoga is essentially a deep inquiry into the nature of the Self, and the intention when practicing Jnana yoga is to use the mind to understand and uncover the truth behind the mind. It is not solely theoretical, encompassing the practical, experiential knowledge which stems from meditation training.

In summary, Jnana yoga is the path of knowledge or wisdom, and its goal is to attain knowledge of the true nature of reality through the practice of meditation, self-inquiry, and contemplation. It is considered the most difficult of the four main paths of yoga, requiring great strength of will and intellect. The concept of Jnana yoga was first described in the Bhagavad Gita, and the path of Jnana yoga was promulgated by Adi Shankaracharya.