the 108 kleshas; the 108 afflictions
Buddhist term for the 108 mental defilements or worldly desires that bind beings to suffering. Often referenced in the context of New Year's Eve bell-ringing (除夜の鐘), where the bell is struck 108 times to dispel each affliction.
See also: 煩悩
除夜の鐘は百八煩悩を払うために百八回撞かれる。
The New Year's Eve bell is rung 108 times to dispel the 108 afflictions.