In Zen Buddhism, mind poisons refer to mental states or mental pollution that bind sentient beings in the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). They are the inner causes of suffering and dissatisfaction and are seen as major obstacles to reaching Nirvana, the final state of liberation and enlightenment. Troubles include various negative emotions and mentalities, such as greed, anger, ignorance, jealousy, and pride.
The significance of mind poisons in Zen Buddhism is that they reveal the psychological roots of suffering in all beings. By recognizing and understanding our mind poisons, we can begin the practice that leads to liberation. One of the goals is to reduce and ultimately eliminate worries through mindfulness, meditation, the cultivation of wisdom and the practice of ethical behavior, thereby achieving inner peace and ultimate nirvana.
