Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Yoga, as a school of Indian philosophy, aims at the cessation of suffering and the attainment of liberation (*kaivalya*). Rooted in the teachings of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, it provides a systematic path to achieve this goal. Central to this path is understanding the nature of suffering, which, according to Yoga philosophy, arises from the afflictions or *kleshas*. These *kleshas* are fundamental obstacles that cloud the true nature of the Self (*Purusha*) and bind us to the cycle of birth and death. This answer will explore the nature of these *kleshas* and how their removal, through the practice of Yoga, ultimately leads to the realization of *kaivalya*.
Understanding Kleshas in Yoga Philosophy
The term *klesha* literally means ‘afflictions’ or ‘causes of suffering’. Patanjali identifies five primary *kleshas* that are the root causes of all our mental and emotional turmoil. These are not merely negative emotions but deeply ingrained tendencies that distort our perception of reality.
1. Avidya (Ignorance)
Avidya is considered the root *klesha*, the fundamental ignorance of the true nature of reality. It’s the mistaken identification of the impermanent (*anitya*) as permanent, the impure as pure, the painful as pleasurable, and the non-Self (*anatma*) as the Self (*atma*). This misperception leads to all other *kleshas*.
Example: Believing that our physical body and possessions define who we are, leading to attachment and fear of loss.
2. Asmitā (Egoism/I-am-ness)
Asmitā arises from *avidya* and is the false identification of the Self with the intellect, mind, and body. It’s the sense of ‘I-am-ness’ that creates a separate self, leading to possessiveness, pride, and a sense of individuality.
Example: Feeling superior to others based on achievements or social status.
3. Rāga (Attachment)
Rāga is the attachment to pleasurable experiences. It’s the desire to cling to things that bring us joy and avoid those that cause pain. This attachment creates dependence and suffering when those pleasurable experiences are lost or change.
Example: Being overly attached to material possessions, relationships, or sensory pleasures.
4. Dvesha (Aversion)
Dvesha is the opposite of *rāga* – the aversion to unpleasant experiences. It’s the desire to avoid things that cause us pain or discomfort. This aversion leads to anger, hatred, and resentment.
Example: Feeling angry or resentful towards someone who has wronged us.
5. Abhinivesha (Fear of Death/Clinging to Life)
Abhinivesha is the innate fear of death and the instinctive desire to preserve life. It’s a deeply ingrained survival instinct that can lead to anxiety, insecurity, and a reluctance to embrace change.
Example: An overwhelming fear of illness or aging, leading to unhealthy coping mechanisms.
The Removal of Kleshas and the Path to Kaivalya
Patanjali outlines the eight limbs of Yoga (*Ashtanga Yoga*) as the means to systematically dismantle these *kleshas* and attain *kaivalya*. These limbs are:
- Yamas (Ethical Restraints): Non-violence (*ahimsa*), truthfulness (*satya*), non-stealing (*asteya*), continence (*brahmacharya*), and non-possessiveness (*aparigraha*).
- Niyamas (Observances): Purity (*shaucha*), contentment (*santosha*), austerity (*tapas*), self-study (*svadhyaya*), and surrender to a higher power (*ishvara pranidhana*).
- Asana (Postures): Physical postures that cultivate stability and ease.
- Pranayama (Breath Control): Techniques to regulate the breath and vital energy.
- Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses): Turning inward and detaching from external stimuli.
- Dharana (Concentration): Focusing the mind on a single point.
- Dhyana (Meditation): Sustained concentration leading to a state of deep absorption.
- Samadhi (Absorption): The ultimate state of union with the divine, where the *kleshas* are completely dissolved.
Through consistent practice of these limbs, the mind becomes purified and the *kleshas* lose their grip. As *avidya* diminishes, the other *kleshas* also weaken. With the complete cessation of *kleshas*, the true nature of *Purusha* (the Self) is revealed, leading to *kaivalya* – a state of complete liberation, independence, and blissful awareness.
The process isn’t instantaneous. It requires dedicated practice (*abhyasa*) and detachment (*vairagya*). As the *kleshas* are gradually removed, the individual experiences increasing freedom from suffering and a deeper understanding of their true nature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the *kleshas* are the fundamental causes of suffering in Yoga philosophy, stemming from ignorance and manifesting as egoism, attachment, aversion, and fear of death. The eight limbs of Yoga provide a practical path to systematically dismantle these afflictions, leading to the purification of the mind and the realization of *kaivalya*. This state of liberation is not merely an escape from suffering but a profound awakening to the true nature of reality and the Self. The journey requires consistent effort and detachment, ultimately culminating in a state of blissful freedom.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.