Can one achieve spiritual knowledge without Shraddha? What does the text say about this?

The text is unequivocal on this matter: spiritual knowledge is unattainable without faith, or Shraddha. Chapter 2 presents this as a "firm" scriptural truth, stating, "Without a Guru, there is no knowledge or spiritual goal." The very act of accepting a Guru, like Rama bowing to Vasistha or Krishna serving Sandipani, is an act of faith and humility. The author's own experience reinforces this; he learned that his pride and tendency to debate were obstacles. The Satcharitra makes a definitive statement that "Without faith (Shraddha) and patience (Saburi), Not a bit of the spiritual goal is achieved," leaving no room for doubt that Shraddha is a non-negotiable prerequisite for spiritual attainment.