The Five Hindrances (nīvaraṇa)

The Five Hindrances (nīvaraṇa)

Are five mental states in Buddhism that obstruct concentration and hinder the development of wisdom, acting as obstacles to both serenity (samatha) and insight (vipassanā) meditation. They are: Sensual Desire (kāmacchanda), Ill Will (vyāpāda), Sloth and Torpor (thīna-middha), Restlessness and Worry (uddhacca-kukkucca), and Doubt (vicikicchā).

• Sensual Desire (Kāmacchanda): Craving for pleasure through the senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch).

• Ill Will (Vyāpāda): Aversion, anger, frustration, or hatred towards people or situations.

• Sloth and Torpor (Thīna-middha): Laziness, lethargy, and lack of mental energy or motivation.

• Restlessness and Worry (Uddhacca-kukkucca): A distracted, agitated mind combined with anxiety or remorse.

• Skeptical Doubt (Vicikicchā): Indecision or lack of conviction regarding the practice, the teachings, or one's ability.

Overcoming the Hindrances

The Buddha taught that these hindrances can be overcome by developing the Four Establishings of Mindfulness (satipahāna). They are often described as temporary states, rather than inherent flaws in one's character, that can be managed through awareness and the cultivation of opposite, positive mental qualities.