onisciente

Onisciente is an adjective used to describe the attribute of possessing complete and universal knowledge. In philosophical and theological contexts, an onisciente being would know all truths—about every object, event, and agent—across all times, including past, present, and future. The term is the Portuguese equivalent of the word omniscient, derived from Latin omnis (all) and scientia (knowledge).

Etymology and usage. The word combines the notion of totality with knowledge, and it is commonly employed in religious, philosophical, and literary discussions to characterize a being or narrator with exhaustive awareness. In religious traditions, omniscience is typically attributed to a divine entity, often alongside other perfect attributes such as omnipotence and moral perfection.

Applications in religion, philosophy, and literature. In theology, omniscience is tied to discussions of divine foreknowledge, providence, and the problem of free will. In philosophy of knowledge, it raises questions about the nature and limits of knowledge, including how a limitless knower would relate to contingent events. In literature and film, an omniscient or onisciente narrator is a device that presents the inner thoughts and motives of multiple characters, offering a comprehensive perspective beyond a single character’s viewpoint.

Criticisms and related concepts. Critics debate whether omniscience is coherent with concepts like free will and randomness, and whether it presupposes a timeless or eternal perspective. Related terms include omnipotence (all-powerful) and omnipresence (present everywhere).