Obstacles in God-Realisation

by Swami Sivananda

INTRODUCTION

Just as volunteers come in front and obstruct the path of those who want to enter a conference pandal without tickets, so also the old Samskaras of enmity, hatred, lust, jealousy, fear, honour, respect etc. , assume definite forms and obstruct the path of aspirants.

An intelligent and comprehensive understanding of the various obstacles that act as stumbling blocks in the path of God-realisation is indispensably requisite for an aspirant. Then alone he will find it easy to conquer them one by one. Just as the sailor sails in and out of a harbour along a dangerous coast, so also a detailed knowledge of these obstacles and the methods to conquer them will act as a guide in steering clear the ocean of spirituality. Hence I have given a very lucid exposition of the various obstacles and the effective methods to conquer them. Aspirants are requested to go through them very carefully often when they encounter difficulties on the path.

Reference

RAJA-YOGA AND YOGA-KUNDALINI UPANISHAD

According to Patanjali Maharshi the following are the obstacles in God-realisation:

Vyadhi-styana-samsaya-pramada-alasya-avirati-bhranti

darsana-alabdha bhumikatva-anavasthitatvani chitta-vikshepaste-antarayah.

Diseases, remission of Sadhana, doubt, carelessness, laziness, worldly-mindedness, illusion, false perception, tossing of mind and inability to remain in the state of Samadhi on account of Vikshepa are the obstacles in the path of God-Realisation. (I-30. )

YOU WILL FIND IN THE YOGA-KUNDALINI-UPANISHAD:

“Diseases are generated in one’s body through the following causes, viz. , sleeping in the day time, late vigils overnight, excess of sexual intercourse, moving in crowd, the checking of the urine and faeces, the evil of unwholesome food and laborious mental operations with Prana. If a Yogin is afraid of such diseases (when attacked by them), he says: ‘My diseases have arisen from the practice of Yoga’. Then he will discontinue his practice. This is said to be the first obstacle to Yoga. The second (obstacle) is doubt; the third, carelessness; the fourth, laziness; the fifth, sleep; the sixth, not leaving of objects (of sense); the seventh, erroneous perception; the eighth, sensual objects; the ninth, want of faith; and the tenth, the failure to attain the truth of Yoga. A wise man should abandon these ten obstacles after great deliberation. “

Obstacles in God-Realisation – Spiritual Guidance

The spiritual path is a sacred journey that calls for purity, patience, and unwavering faith. Every seeker longs to experience the Divine, yet the mind often creates countless distractions that delay this noble goal. Understanding the Obstacles in God-Realisation is essential for anyone who sincerely wishes to progress on the path of spiritual awakening. Swami Sivananda consistently taught that true success in spiritual life comes through disciplined living, selfless service, devotion, and constant remembrance of God.

One of the greatest hindrances is the restless nature of the mind. It continuously wanders toward worldly pleasures, desires, and unnecessary thoughts, making meditation difficult. Pride, anger, greed, attachment, and jealousy further cloud inner vision and prevent the heart from experiencing divine peace. A sincere aspirant must cultivate humility, forgiveness, and contentment while steadily replacing negative tendencies with noble virtues. Through regular prayer and self-examination, these inner impurities gradually lose their strength. Obstacles in God-Realisation become weaker when spiritual discipline is practised with sincerity every day.

Lack of faith and inconsistency in spiritual practice also slow down progress. Many seekers begin their journey with enthusiasm but lose determination when immediate results are not visible. Swami Sivananda reminded devotees that spiritual growth is gradual, much like the steady growth of a tree. Daily meditation, repetition of the Divine Name, study of uplifting scriptures, and association with enlightened souls strengthen inner conviction and keep the seeker moving toward the highest truth. Resources available through Devotional India can further inspire aspirants by presenting timeless spiritual teachings in a simple and accessible manner.

Another significant challenge is excessive attachment to the material world. Wealth, comfort, recognition, and sensory pleasures are temporary, yet people often become deeply attached to them. Such attachments create fear, anxiety, and disappointment. Spiritual wisdom teaches that one should perform all duties sincerely while remaining detached from the results. This balanced attitude purifies the heart and prepares it for divine grace. As attachment decreases, the Obstacles in God-Realisation naturally begin to disappear, allowing the light of inner awareness to shine more brightly.

The guidance of a realised Guru and the company of noble seekers are invaluable on the spiritual path. Their wisdom helps remove confusion and strengthens one’s determination during difficult periods. At the same time, selfless service, compassion, truthfulness, and constant remembrance of God transform ordinary life into a sacred offering. These practices purify the mind and awaken unconditional love for the Divine. The inspiring articles and spiritual guidance shared by Devotional India encourage aspirants to remain dedicated to this eternal journey.

Ultimately, God-realisation is not attained through intellectual knowledge alone but through purity of heart, sincere devotion, and persistent practice. Every challenge faced by a seeker is an opportunity for inner growth. When faith remains firm, the mind becomes calm, and the heart is filled with divine love, the Obstacles in God-Realisation gradually dissolve. With patience, discipline, and complete surrender to God, every sincere seeker can move steadily toward lasting peace, spiritual freedom, and the bliss of divine realisation.