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Kleshas Introduction

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Humanities

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Overview

In this lesson, we introduce kleshas, known as obstacles or veils.

Objective

Become grounded in the teachings of kleshas, a foundation of yoga philosophy.

What You'll Get

Translate the word, “klesha.” Provide a more specific definition for avidya than “ignorance.” Define asmita, raga, dvesha and abhinivesha. Provide the “initial and pertinent question” that is answered by the philosophy of kleshas. Explain which of the kleshas are intellectual obstacles and which are emotional. Explain why the veils may thicken over innate wisdom.

Vocabulary

Abhinivesha — Fear of death
Asmita —Egoism
Avidya — Ignorance
Dvesha — Aversion
Klesha — Obstacle or veil
Raga — Attachment

Translations

Different authors translate these Sanskrit words using different English spellings. We’ve settled on the following spellings while noting other ways you may come across these words.

Kleshas

Obstacles
Veils
Afflictions
Troubles

Avidya

Ignorance
Spiritual Ignorance
Misapprehension
Lack of Insight

Asmita

Separateness
Feeling of Individuality
Egoism
I-Feeling
Identification with the Mutable

Raga

Attachment
Passion

Dvesha (Dvesa, Dwesha)

Aversion
Disgust
Hatred

Abhinivesha (Abhinivesah, Abhinivesa)

Fear of Death
Will to Live
Clinging to Bodily Life
Insecurity
Deep-Seated Anxiety

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