the 5 hindrances

Went to a short Dhamma talk today, and it talks on the 5 hindrances in life. The dhamma talk was short and simple, describing each hindrances using a bowl of water.

If we were to be overcome by sensual pleasures, it would be like a bowl of water coloured with 5 different kind of dye. Because of the dye, one would not be able to look clearly into the water, and see one's true self.

And if one is full of anger, it was described as a bowl of water, which is boiling. And again, looking into a boiling bowl of water, doesn't allow one to reflect on your ownself. What you would see, is only boiling bubbles of ill will and hatred.

Next up, sloth and torpor is being described as a bowl of water full with mould. One mind is totally blocked out from seeing oneself.

A mind with doubt (lack of conviction), is being described as a bowl of muddy water, which unables you to see through clearly.

Lastly, a mind which is restless, is described as a bowl of clear water, however, with ripples and waves on the surface. Even though one may be able to still look at oneself in the reflection, but, the mind does not rest there. One thought, leads to another, and a chain reaction begins.


All the above, would requires a calm, and strong mind to get rid of in order for one to proceed and breakthrough, especially in the meditation. I thought that the example given in the talk was precise, and clear enough for one to understand, and just want to share it with others.