Klesha

Klesha (क्लेश) means “affliction,” “torment,” or “mental impurity.” In Patanjali’s Yoga philosophy, it refers to the five fundamental causes of suffering that bind the individual to the cycle of rebirth.

Overview

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras (2.3–9) list five kleshas: (1) avidya (ignorance), (2) asmita (ego-sense), (3) raga (attachment), (4) dvesha (aversion), and (5) abhinivesha (clinging to life). These are not merely emotional states but deep-rooted cognitive distortions that operate at the level of the unconscious (samskara). Avidya is the root klesha from which the other four arise.

Philosophical Context

The kleshas are the psychological foundation of the Yoga system’s analysis of suffering. They explain why beings are trapped in samsara (the cycle of birth and death) and why liberation (kaivalya) requires systematic mental purification. The Yoga Sutras (2.3) state: “Avidya is the field for the others, whether they are dormant, attenuated, suspended, or active.” The practice of kriya yoga (discipline of action), svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara pranidhanashvara) pranidhana (surrender to God) is designed to weaken and eventually destroy the kleshas.

Interpretations

The Buddhist tradition recognizes parallel concepts — the five hindrances (nivarana) and the three poisons (trivisha) — which overlap with the kleshas. The Kashmir Shaiva tradition expands the kleshas to include additional impurities like mala (inherent impurity) and kalā (limited power). Modern yoga therapy interprets kleshas as psychosomatic patterns that can be addressed through therapeutic yoga practices.

Verification Notes

• Yoga Sutras 2.3–9 (critical edition, Bryant 2009).
• Commentary by Vyasa (Yogabhashya) and Vacaspati Misra (Tattvavaisaradi).
• Audited against Wikipedia and standard references (September 2026).