The pancha klesha according to Patanjali are the five root causes of human suffering that disturb mental peace. These five afflictions include ignorance (Avidya), egoism (Asmita), attachment (Raga), aversion (Dvesha), and fear of death (Abhinivesha). Patanjali explains that recognizing and overcoming these pancha klesha is essential for spiritual growth and liberation in the practice of yoga.