Klesha (Obstacles, Afflictions)

Klesha is a Sanskrit term meaning "obstacles" or "afflictions." In yoga and Indian philosophy, kleshas are the mental and emotional disturbances that cloud perception and create suffering.

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali identify five kleshas as the root causes of human suffering, keeping individuals bound to ignorance and attachment.

Overcoming the kleshas through self-awareness and disciplined practice is essential for spiritual growth and liberation (moksha).

Etymology and Meaning

Sanskrit Spelling: क्लेश

Root Word: "Kliś" (to cause pain, to afflict)

Translation Variations: Obstacles, afflictions, mental disturbances

Pronunciation: Kleśa [KLAY-shah]

The kleshas act as layers of distortion that prevent individuals from seeing reality clearly.

They manifest as mental conditioning, emotional attachments, and reactive tendencies that generate suffering.

The Five Kleshas

Patanjali outlines five kleshas in the Yoga Sutras, describing them as the primary barriers to self-realization:

Avidya (Ignorance): Misunderstanding the nature of reality, mistaking the impermanent for the permanent, or identifying with the ego rather than the true self.

Asmita (Egoism): The false identification with the "I," leading to separation from others and attachment to personal identity.

Raga (Attachment): Clinging to pleasure, experiences, or material possessions, believing they are the source of happiness.

Dvesha (Aversion): Avoidance of discomfort, pain, or unpleasant experiences, leading to resistance and suffering.

Abhinivesha (Fear of Death): The deep-seated fear of loss or non-existence, which creates anxiety and attachment to life.

Each of these afflictions creates cycles of suffering by reinforcing illusions and preventing inner freedom.

Symbolism in Yoga Philosophy

The kleshas are often compared to veils that obscure the truth of existence.

Just as a dirty lens distorts vision, the kleshas distort perception, leading individuals to react based on conditioned patterns rather than clear awareness.

Yoga, meditation, and self-inquiry serve as tools for dissolving these obstacles, allowing practitioners to experience life with greater clarity and peace.

Practical Application

In Yoga Practice

• Observe how attachment or aversion influences reactions on and off the mat.
• Use meditation to bring awareness to unconscious patterns and begin the process of releasing them.
• Approach challenges in practice with curiosity rather than resistance, dissolving fear-based conditioning.

In Daily Life

• Notice when ego (asmita) creates separation or attachment to personal identity.
• Practice non-attachment (vairagya) by letting go of expectations and outcomes.
• Develop self-awareness to recognize and soften the influence of kleshas in decision-making.

Quotes and Wisdom

"The kleshas bind us to suffering, but awareness dissolves their power."

"Liberation is not about escaping the world but seeing through the illusions created by the kleshas."

Modern Relevance

Kleshas remain deeply relevant in today’s world, where stress, attachment, and fear-based conditioning drive many behaviors.

By understanding and addressing the kleshas, individuals can break free from habitual suffering and cultivate greater peace, resilience, and wisdom.

Whether in relationships, work, or personal development, the awareness of kleshas helps in navigating life with clarity and grace.

Related Concepts

Vairagya: Non-attachment, which helps in reducing the influence of kleshas.

Vidya: Knowledge and wisdom, the antidote to avidya (ignorance), the root of all kleshas.

How to Overcome Kleshas

Mindset: Cultivate awareness of conditioned responses and question habitual reactions.

Actions: Engage in meditation, mindfulness, and yoga practices that dissolve mental and emotional conditioning.

Reflection: Regularly observe and examine how kleshas influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, working to release them.

Suggested Reading

• The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
• The Bhagavad Gita
• The Heart of Yoga by T.K.V. Desikachar.

Conclusion

Kleshas are the mental and emotional afflictions that create suffering and obscure true understanding.

By recognizing and working through these obstacles, practitioners can cultivate inner freedom, clarity, and a deeper connection to their true nature.

Yoga offers the tools to dissolve kleshas, allowing individuals to move beyond conditioned patterns and experience life with greater awareness and peace.