Understanding the Roots of Suffering: What is Pancha Klesha?
In the ancient wisdom of Yoga philosophy, there is a powerful concept that seeks to explain the core reasons behind human suffering and inner conflict. This concept is known as the Pancha Klesha, a term derived from Sanskrit which literally translates to the "five afflictions" or "five causes of suffering." These mental and emotional disturbances are said to cloud our perception, limit our spiritual growth, and keep us bound in cycles of suffering.
But you might be wondering, what is Pancha Klesha, and why does it hold such an important place in yogic and spiritual traditions? Let’s break it down step-by-step.
What is Pancha Klesha?
To understand what is Pancha Klesha, we need to dive into the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, one of the foundational texts of classical Yoga. In Sutra 2.3, Patanjali introduces the five Kleshas as the root causes of all mental suffering. These are:
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Avidya (Ignorance or Misperception)
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Asmita (Egoism or the sense of "I-am-ness")
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Raga (Attachment or Desire)
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Dvesha (Aversion or Hatred)
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Abhinivesha (Fear of Death or Clinging to Life)
These five mental afflictions are considered to be the main obstacles to achieving inner peace and enlightenment. Let's explore each one in detail.
1. Avidya – Ignorance
At the root of all the Kleshas lies Avidya, often translated as spiritual ignorance. It doesn’t mean a lack of book knowledge, but rather a misunderstanding of our true nature. When we identify with the ego, body, or mind instead of the eternal self or soul (Atman), we live in delusion.
This ignorance leads us to believe that temporary things—like success, wealth, relationships—can give us lasting happiness, which they cannot. Avidya distorts reality, and every other Klesha is born out of this fundamental misunderstanding.
2. Asmita – Egoism
Asmita arises when we strongly identify with our ego or individual identity. We say, “I am this,” or “I am that,” and attach ourselves to roles—student, professional, parent, etc.—forgetting that our true self goes beyond titles or labels.
This over-identification with the ego leads to competition, pride, comparison, and a sense of separation from others. Ego-driven living is the root of countless human conflicts.
3. Raga – Attachment
Raga refers to the intense desire or craving for things we find pleasurable or comforting. Whether it's material possessions, relationships, or status, Raga creates a constant state of wanting, which keeps us restless and dissatisfied.
The more we cling to pleasure, the more we fear its loss. This cycle leads to anxiety and suffering, trapping us in an endless pursuit of fleeting joys.
4. Dvesha – Aversion
If Raga is attachment to pleasure, Dvesha is the flip side: repulsion toward pain or discomfort. It’s the mental pattern of rejecting, avoiding, or fighting situations, people, or emotions that we don’t like.
While it’s natural to dislike pain, obsessing over avoidance creates more suffering. In fact, both Raga and Dvesha arise from Avidya, as they reflect a misunderstanding of what truly brings peace and freedom.
5. Abhinivesha – Fear of Death
Abhinivesha is the deep-rooted fear of death or the instinctive clinging to life. Even the wise and spiritually advanced are said to be affected by this Klesha. It reflects our fear of the unknown and our reluctance to let go of what we think we are.
This fear can manifest as anxiety about aging, losing loved ones, or simply change in general. Ultimately, it comes from forgetting that the soul is eternal and not limited to this physical body.
How Do the Pancha Kleshas Affect Us Today?
Even though these concepts are ancient, their relevance today is striking. In the modern world, we face constant stress, insecurity, and emotional turmoil. From social media comparison (Asmita) to consumerism (Raga) and anxiety about the future (Abhinivesha), these age-old afflictions manifest in new forms but with the same essence.
By understanding what is Pancha Klesha, we gain insight into why we suffer and how we can begin to heal.
Overcoming the Kleshas Through Yoga
Patanjali and other yogic sages didn’t just describe the problem—they also gave us tools to transcend it. The practice of Yoga, both on and off the mat, is designed to purify the mind and reduce the power of the Kleshas.
Key practices include:
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Meditation (Dhyana) – helps to cultivate awareness and detach from the ego
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Self-Inquiry (Svadhyaya) – deepens understanding of our inner patterns
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Detachment (Vairagya) – develops non-attachment to pleasure and pain
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Right Living (Yamas and Niyamas) – ethical foundations for a peaceful life
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Knowledge (Jnana Yoga) – dissolves Avidya through wisdom and truth
Final Thoughts: Awareness Is the First Step
Now that you know what is Pancha Klesha, the next step is to observe how these patterns show up in your own life. Don’t be harsh on yourself—these are universal tendencies. The key is awareness, compassion, and consistent practice.
The Kleshas may not disappear overnight, but with patience and mindfulness, you can reduce their grip and step closer to your true nature—peaceful, free, and whole
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