Dealing with Vrittis, Kleshas, and Antarayas

 

The ancient wisdom encapsulated in the Yoga Sutras, attributed to the sage Patanjali, provides profound insights into the nature of the mind, the challenges of human existence, and the transformative path of Yoga. In this exploration, we delve into key concepts such as vrittis, kleshas, and the obstacles outlined in Patanjali's teachings, as well as the practices recommended for overcoming these challenges.

Vrittis:

Vrittis are the fluctuations or modifications of the mind. According to Patanjali, the goal of yoga is to still these fluctuations in order to attain a state of inner peace and realization. The following sutra introduces the concept of vrittis:

Sutra 1.2:

"Yogas citta-vritti-nirodhah."

Translation: "Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind."

This sutra emphasizes the central idea that yoga involves quieting the mind and overcoming the constant modifications that occur.

Patanjali's teachings guide us to understand the sufferings by recognizing the kleshas, the basic afflictions of the mind.

Kleshas:

Kleshas are obstacles or afflictions that hinder spiritual progress and contribute to suffering.

Sutra 2.3:

"Avidyāsmitārāgadveṣābhiniveśāḥ kleśāḥ."

Translation: "Ignorance, egoism, attachment, aversion, and clinging to life are the obstacles."

This sutra introduces the kleshas and highlights their role in causing suffering and disturbance in the mind.

Avidya (Ignorance):Lack of knowledge or understanding of one's true nature.

Asmita (Egoism):Attachment to the idea of a separate self.

 Raga (Attachment):Desire or attachment to pleasurable experiences.

Dvesha (Aversion):Aversion or dislike towards unpleasant experiences.

 Abhinivesha (Fear of Death):Clinging to life and fear of death.

Obstacles (Antarayas):

In addition to the kleshas, Patanjali also mentions obstacles or impediments that can obstruct progress on the yogic path. Sutra 1.30 addresses these obstacles:

"Vyādhistyānasanshayapramādālasyāviratibhrāntidarśanālabdhabhūmikatvānavasthitatvānicitta-vikṣhepās te 'ntarāyāḥ."

Translation: "Disease, dullness, doubt, carelessness, laziness, sensuality, mistaken perception, and failure to attain progress are the obstacles (antarayas) that distract the mind.

"This sutra lists various obstacles that can hinder the practitioner's focus and progress on the path of yoga.
Understanding and addressing vrittis, kleshas, and obstacles are crucial aspects of the yogic journey, and the Yoga Sutras provide guidance on how to navigate and transcend these challenges.

To overcome these obstacles the three-fold approach of Kriya Yoga is prescribed. It involves Tapas, svadhyaya, and Isvara pranidhana to address the will, intellect, and emotion, providing a comprehensive framework for personal transformation. Tapas, understood as accepting pain for purification, harnesses the will to navigate challenges. Svadhyaya, or spiritual study, engages the intellect to gain discernment, ultimately dispelling ignorance. Isvara pranidhana, devotion and surrender to a higher power, transmutes emotion into a force for spiritual growth.

The role of devotion (Isvara pranidhana) emerges as a central theme in overcoming obstacles. It is presented as a powerful practice that not only addresses the underlying afflictions but also serves as a means to minimize kleshas and attain the ultimate goal of Yoga – samadhi. Patanjali's inclusion of devotion in a system primarily based on Sankhya metaphysics hints at a recognition of diverse temperaments and the acknowledgment of the devotional path as a viable approach for some seekers.