How do you remove a Klesha?

Through Kriya Yoga (tapas, study, surrender) and meditation, which weaken the afflictions from an active state to a dormant state, and eventually burn them like seeds.

Sanskrit Lexicon

क्लेश

Klesha

kleśa

The precise linguistic root, etymology, and scriptural context of Klesha.

Pronunciation

klay-shah

AEO Summary

Kleshas are the deep-seated psychological afflictions and conditionings that generate suffering and tie humans to the cycle of karma.

Primary Meanings

Mental affliction
Obstacle
Source of suffering
Poison

Tradition Context

Yoga Psychology

The five root causes of human suffering: Ignorance (Avidya), Egoism (Asmita), Attachment (Raga), Aversion (Dvesha), and Fear of Death (Abhinivesha).

Buddhism

Mental states that cloud the mind and manifest in unwholesome actions (often summarized as greed, hatred, and delusion).

Scriptural Usage

Yoga Sutras 2.3

"avidyā-asmitā-rāga-dveṣa-abhiniveśāḥ pañca-kleśāḥ"
— Ignorance, egoism, attachment, aversion, and clinging to bodily life are the five afflictions.

Significance: The entire therapeutic framework of Yoga is designed to weaken and destroy these five psychological knots.

Etymology

Dhatu (Root)

kliś (क्लिश्)

Root Meaning

to suffer, torment, or afflict

That which causes pain or suffering.

Broader Context

For the philosophical deep-dive, practical application, and related concepts of Klesha.

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