In Jainism, the Tirthankaras are described as having to overcome intense inner obstacles during their tapas (austerities) and meditation as they progress toward kevala jnana (complete omniscience). The main difficulties they encounter are not failures of technique, but the strong inner passions and karmic tendencies that arise within a seeker.

• Inner obstacles: The five major passions—kama (desire), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), and matsarya (pride/enviousness)—are repeatedly described as the forces that bind the soul. During meditation and deep tapas, a seeker may experience these impulses more strongly as they are uprooted, which can feel like a struggle or “problem” on the path.
• Detours and distractions: The mind may waver, senses may distract, and fear, doubt, or fatigue can arise. The Tirthankaras are portrayed as having unwavering resolve, steadily progressing despite these mental disturbances.
• External challenges: In some accounts, there are external pressures from creatures, beings, or the environment, but the canonical emphasis in Jain texts is on conquering inner karmic baggage rather than being defeated by external forces. The Tirthankaras’ greatness lies in their ability to remain calm and continue their path despite such challenges.

Key point to remember:

• The purpose of meditation and austerity for a Tirthankara is to purify the soul and shed karmas to attain kevala jnana. Any “problems” faced are understood as part of the intense inner purification process, not failures of practice.
• Different Jain traditions (Digambara vs. Śvetāmbara) may describe situations with slight variations in tone or emphasis, but the core idea is the same: unwavering inner discipline conquers all obstacles on the path to enlightenment.

If you’d like, I can share concise references to the traditional terms and describe how each obstacle is described in a specific Jain sutra or hymn (and note any differences between Digambara and Śvetāmbara interpretations).