Five Hindrances

Definition:

The Five Hindrances are qualities that get in the way of realizing enlightenment, mostly by interfering with concentration. The Five Hindrances (in Sanskrit) are:

1. abhidya (sensual desire)
2. pradosha (ill will)
3. styana, middha (sloth, torpor)
4. anuddhatya, kaukritya (restlessness, remorse)
5. vichikitsha (skeptical doubt)

In Pali:

1. kamacchanda (desire)
2. byapada (ill will)
3. thina-middha (sloth and torpor)
4. uddhacca-kukkucca (restlessness and remorse)
5. vicikiccha (skeptical doubt)

Also Known As: Five Obstructions, Nivarana (Sanskrit and Pali)