Antarāya (or Antraya) karma = “obstructing karma”.

It is one of the 4 ghātiyā (destructive) karmas. Its function: to block the soul’s energy and ability to do good or to enjoy what is available. Because of this karma, even when you have the means, you feel stopped, blocked, or unable.

Simple definition

Antarāya karma: The karma which creates obstacles in:

• doing charity,
• getting things,
• enjoying things,
• using things,
• and using one’s own inner energy.

It obstructs virya (spiritual and physical energy) and stops punya activities and spiritual progress.

Both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions accept the same basic definition and the same 5 sub‑types; only explanation style/wording may vary slightly.

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5 subtypes (upa‑prakṛti) of Antarāya karma

1. Dāna Antarāya Karma

- Obstruction in giving (dāna). - Example: You want to donate or help someone, but laziness, fear, or some hindrance comes, and you don’t give.

1. Lābha Antarāya Karma

- Obstruction in receiving/gaining (lābha). - Example: A good opportunity or help is coming to you, but at the last moment it is cancelled, diverted, or you miss it.

1. Bhoga Antarāya Karma

- Obstruction in enjoying bhog – consumable things used once, like food, drink, flowers, etc. - Example: Food is ready, but you cannot eat due to some sudden problem, illness, or interruption.

1. Upabhoga Antarāya Karma

- Obstruction in enjoying upabhoga – non‑consumable enjoyments, used again and again, like house, clothes, ornaments, vehicles, etc. - Example: You have a good house/car, but cannot live/ride peacefully due to constant issues, disputes, or obstacles.

1. Vīrya Antarāya Karma

- Obstruction in using energy/effort (vīrya), especially for spiritual practice. - Example: You want to do sādhanā, pratikraman, fast, study scriptures, but feel no strength, no inner push, constant inner resistance.

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Essence in very simple words

• Name: Antarāya karma – obstructing karma.
• Work: Puts roadblocks in doing good, in gaining and enjoying, and in using your own strength.
• Goal of Jain sādhanā: Reduce and destroy Antarāya karma by:

- avoiding jealousy and obstruction of others’ charity/happiness, - increasing friendliness and helping nature, - doing punya and spiritual efforts with pure intention.

You can read more on karma types here and on the 108 subtypes of karma (including the 5 Antarāya subtypes) here