The Kleshas: Avidya

The Kleshas, also known as the Five Hindrances, are an important concept in various Indian philosophies, and have a preeminent position within the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and in the philosophy of Yoga itself.

This eminence is given due to their universal occurrence within the human mind, with the Kleshas representing the primary obstacles or mental disturbances that hinder spiritual progress and cause suffering.

The term "Klesha" originates from Sanskrit and can be translated as "poison" or "affliction."

As we explore the “Five Hindrances” together, let us be encouraged to open our minds to how and where these “afflictions” may be present within our own minds; not with the intent of judgement towards ourselves, but only to serve as a means of fostering our own growth and deep understanding of what it means to be a Yogi… and to be human.

Avidya:

“Avidya” is a Sanskrit term usually translated as "ignorance" or "nescience."

Avidya refers to a fundamental lack of understanding or awareness of the true nature of reality and of the self. Within the practice of Yoga, it is considered one of the primary causes of suffering and the root of various mental afflictions.

Avidya is seen as the primary cause of the illusory perception of multiplicity and separation, as well as an unconscious yearning for permanence, which leads individuals to identify with the body, mind, and ego, rather than recognising their true essence as pure consciousness (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).

This failure to recognize the transient, unsatisfactory, and interconnected nature of all phenomena gives rise to attachment and aversion, leading to various forms of craving, suffering, and delusion, and Avidya is usually seen as the absolute root cause of the other four Kelshas.

Upon the Path of Yoga, the way of liberation involves overcoming Avidya through the cultivation of wisdom, insight, and direct experiential knowledge.

The fundamental practices of Yoga, such as meditation, mindfulness, self-inquiry, and the study of sacred texts, are undertaken with enthusiasm in order to dispel ignorance and gain a deeper understanding of the true nature of oneself and reality.

By recognising, acknowledging and uprooting Avidya within our own level of consciousness, we can free ourselves from the cycle of suffering and attain a spiritual awakening, true liberation and a total recognition of our own “enlightenment”. It is considered a transformative process that leads to greater clarity, compassion, and the realisation of one's inherent interconnectedness with all beings.

It is only our false understanding of the nature of reality that keeps us bound in ceaseless cycles of suffering, delusion and despair… we must only open our true eyes to have revealed to us the beautiful clarity and simplicity of the ultimate reality; it’s the reality you are in right now.