Q: What is properly signified as “ignorance”?

A: The wisdom obstacle is properly signified as ignorance.

Q: What does this mean?

A: The two wisdoms [attained from contemplating emptiness and conventional existence] that seek the wisdom of the Middle should be called the wisdom obstacle.

Q: Why is that called the “wisdom obstacle”?

A: There are three interpretations in understanding this “wisdom obstacle.” (1) It is called wisdom obstacle because wisdom acts as an obstacle. (2) It is an obstacle because wisdom is being obstructed. (3) It is called “wisdom obstacle” because it refers to both the obstacle and [that which is] obstructed.

Q: What wisdom is acting as an obstacle?

A: The wisdoms attained from contemplating emptiness and conventional existence both destroy delusions; therefore they are called “wisdom.” However, now the Middle Path is sought, and these wisdoms in turn produce delusion. These obstruct the attainment of the wisdom of the Middle; therefore they are called wisdom obstacles. They receive their name from the fact that they act as obstacles. Also, since these wisdoms obstruct the wisdom of the Middle, they are obstacles to wisdom. Since this [wisdom of the Middle] is being obstructed, they are called [wisdom obstacles]. Also, the delusions are an obstacle, and that which is being obstructed is the wisdom of the Middle; therefore it is called the “wisdom obstacle.” [The wisdom obstacle] refers to both the obstacle and that which is obstructed.