What Are the Obstacles Encountered in Buddhist Study and Practice?

Delusion hindrance refers to confusion in thoughts and concepts, as well as the obstruction caused by afflictions. Karmic hindrance arises from the karmic retribution generated by countless actions performed over countless kalpas. Habitual hindrance stems from worldly conditioning accumulated over innumerable kalpas, which has become deeply ingrained and possesses immense inertial force. Demonic hindrance includes obstacles created by celestial demons and hindrances arising from one's own mind, such as afflictive demons. Celestial demons do not interfere with those incapable of transcending the desire realm, as they deem it unnecessary; often, it is the afflictive demonic hindrances arising from one's own mind that pose the challenge.

These hindrances constantly follow Buddhist practitioners. When diligence is lacking, they remain inconspicuous. However, during periods of vigorous practice, as progress on the path advances, these obscurations become strikingly evident, manifesting as significant resistance. It is akin to walking on foot: though wind blows, it feels like a gentle breeze. When riding a bicycle, the wind feels slightly stronger but remains manageable. Yet when riding a motorcycle, wind resistance becomes substantial—the faster the speed, the greater the perceived resistance, due to the impact force between objects. Similarly, in Buddhist practice, there exists an impact force against the habitual tendencies accumulated over countless kalpas. The more diligent one becomes, the greater the resistance encountered. With unwavering perseverance and fearlessness in the face of obstacles, progress on the path will continually deepen, leading to rapid and significant attainment.