Chapter 17 outlines several significant obstacles on the spiritual path. The primary challenge is the allure of Preya, the path of worldly pleasure, which is fueled by an obsession with wealth, sensory cravings, and a lack of detachment. The chapter identifies this as a form of beginningless ignorance or Maya, which creates false impositions like a mirage. Specifically, the text from Chapter 17 points to lust and anger as two tendencies that actively disrupt the process of gaining knowledge by hindering listening and meditation. Furthermore, desires for seen and unseen enjoyments, along with a restless and unsatisfied mind, are identified as root obstacles that must be completely dug out to make progress.
According to Chapter 17, what are the primary obstacles a person faces when trying to follow the path of true self-interest?
๐ Chapter 17