Jnana Yoga is one of the traditional paths of spiritual realization within Hindu philosophy. It is a path of knowledge, wisdom, and intellectual inquiry, emphasizing the understanding of the true nature of reality and the self.

Jnana Yoga (wisdom) is considered one of the four primary paths to spiritual liberation, along with Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Karma Yoga (selfless action), and Raja Yoga (meditation).

Key principles and practices associated with Jnana Yoga include:

1. Discrimination between the Real and the Unreal (Viveka): Jnana Yoga encourages the practitioner to develop discrimination (vivek) between the eternal and the transient, the real and the unreal. This involves discerning the unchanging, eternal nature of the self (Atman) and the impermanent, changing nature of the world.
2. Renunciation (Vairagya): Jnana Yoga often involves cultivating a sense of detachment and renunciation toward worldly pursuits and material attachments. By letting go of the identification with temporary aspects of life, the practitioner can turn inward to realize the eternal nature of the self.
3. Six Virtues (Shatsampat): Jnana Yoga outlines six virtues that aid in the cultivation of knowledge and wisdom. These virtues are tranquility (shama), control of the mind (dama), withdrawal (uparati), endurance or forbearance (titiksha), faith (shraddha), and concentration (samadhana).
4. Fourfold Qualities (Mumukshutva): The aspirant on the path of Jnana Yoga is expected to possess a burning desire for liberation (moksha) and to cultivate the qualities of discrimination, dispassion, and a longing for spiritual wisdom.
5. Study of Sacred Texts (Svadhyaya): Jnana Yogis engage in the study of sacred texts, particularly the Upanishads, which contain profound philosophical teachings about the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth (Brahman). The Bhagavad Gita and other philosophical treatises are also studied.
6. Contemplation and Reflection (Manana): Jnana Yoga involves deep contemplation and reflection on the teachings of the sacred texts. The practitioner ponders the nature of existence, the self, and the relationship between the individual soul (jivatman) and the ultimate reality (paramatman).
7. Realization of Non-Duality (Advaita): Many Jnana Yogis, particularly those following the Advaita Vedanta tradition, emphasize the realization of non-duality (advaita). This realization involves understanding that the ultimate reality (Brahman) and the individual self (Atman) are essentially one and the same.

Prominent philosophers and spiritual teachers associated with Jnana Yoga include Adi Shankaracharya, Ramana Maharshi, and Nisargadatta Maharaj.

While Jnana Yoga places a strong emphasis on intellectual inquiry and wisdom, it is essential to recognize that the paths of yoga are not mutually exclusive. Many practitioners incorporate elements of Jnana Yoga into their overall spiritual practice, combining it with other paths such as Bhakti Yoga, Karma Yoga, or Raja Yoga. The ultimate goal of Jnana Yoga is self-realization and the direct experience of the transcendent reality.