Avidya is a Sanskrit term that translates to "ignorance" or "lack of knowledge." In the context of Indian philosophy, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism, it refers to the misunderstanding of the true nature of reality. Avidya is considered a fundamental cause of suffering, as it leads individuals to perceive the world through a distorted lens, resulting in attachment and aversion. In Buddhism, avidya is one of the three poisons, alongside greed and hatred, that perpetuate the cycle of samsara, or the cycle of birth and rebirth. Overcoming avidya is essential for achieving enlightenment and liberation, as it allows individuals to see things as they truly are, free from delusion and confusion.