idle thoughts; distracting thoughts; worldly thoughts
Refers to random, distracting, or worldly thoughts that disturb concentration or peace of mind, often used in contexts like meditation, study, or prayer.
During meditation, idle thoughts come to mind and I can't concentrate.
Before the exam, I cleared away distracting thoughts and focused on studying.
Compound of 雑 (ざつ, 'miscellaneous, mixed') and 念 (ねん, 'thought, feeling'). The combination straightforwardly yields 'miscellaneous thoughts'.