Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 12:10

This ancient Jewish text, the Tanya, offers a profound look into the inner workings of the human spirit, a journey of self-discovery that has resonated with Jewish people for centuries. It delves into the complex landscape of our desires and motivations, providing a framework for understanding the constant interplay between our higher and lower selves. For those seeking to understand the spiritual and philosophical underpinnings of Jewish thought, this passage serves as a fascinating window into a rich tradition of introspection and ethical living.

Context

Who, When, and Where

• Who: The Tanya was authored by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812), the founder of the Chabad Lubavitch Hasidic movement. He was a scholar, mystic, and leader who sought to make Kabbalistic wisdom accessible to a broader audience.
• When: This section, Likkutei Amarim 12:10, is part of the first volume of the Tanya, which was first published in 1796. It represents a foundational text within Hasidic Judaism.
• Where: The Tanya was written in the Russian Empire, during a period of significant intellectual and spiritual ferment within Eastern European Jewry.

Defining a Term

• Benoni: This Hebrew term translates to "intermediate" or "average" person. In the context of the Tanya, it describes an individual who, while not perfectly righteous, is able to control their negative impulses and align their actions with their spiritual aspirations.

Text Snapshot

This passage describes a person referred to as the benoni, or the "intermediate" individual. This person is characterized by their ability to prevent negative urges from fully taking over their thoughts, speech, and actions. While they experience temptations and desires, they possess the inner strength to resist acting on them, particularly when those desires conflict with their spiritual values. Their internal world is a constant negotiation, where the "divine soul" works to guide their "animal soul" toward positive actions, aligning with Jewish commandments and a deep love for the Divine. Even when negative thoughts arise, they are actively pushed away, preventing them from leading to actual wrongdoing.

Values Lens

This text illuminates several profound values that are central to Jewish ethical and spiritual thought, offering a nuanced perspective on human nature and the path towards a meaningful life.

The Struggle for Inner Mastery

At its core, the passage speaks to the universal human experience of internal conflict. It posits that within each person exists a dynamic tension between what the text refers to as the "divine soul" and the "animal soul." The "animal soul" is associated with instinctual drives, desires, and the inclination towards self-gratification. The "divine soul," on the other hand, represents our higher aspirations, our capacity for moral reasoning, and our connection to something greater than ourselves. The benoni is the individual who, while acknowledging the presence of these potentially conflicting impulses, actively works to ensure that the "divine soul" remains in a position of leadership. This isn't about the absence of temptation, but rather the presence of an ongoing, conscious effort to direct one's inner life.

This value of inner mastery is not about denying our natural inclinations, but about cultivating the awareness and the will to guide them. It suggests that true spiritual growth lies not in a state of effortless perfection, but in the diligent, moment-by-moment practice of self-regulation. The text emphasizes that even when negative thoughts arise – "sinful thoughts," "animosity," "hatred," "jealousy," or "anger" – the benoni does not allow them to take root. Instead, they are actively "thrust out with both hands," demonstrating a powerful commitment to preventing inner turmoil from manifesting as outward transgression. This highlights the profound importance placed on conscious decision-making and the active cultivation of a virtuous inner life, even when faced with strong internal pressures. It’s a testament to the belief that our choices, however small they may seem, shape our character and our spiritual trajectory.

The Power of Conscious Intention and Action

The text strongly emphasizes the distinction between thought and action, and the critical role of conscious intention in ethical behavior. The benoni is characterized by the fact that their negative impulses do not manifest in "deed, speech, and persistent thought to the extent of concentrating his attention on the enjoyment of the mundane pleasures." This means that while a temptation might arise in the mind, the benoni actively prevents it from becoming an ingrained focus or leading to an outward act.

This value of conscious intention and action underscores the Jewish emphasis on mitzvot (commandments) as not merely ritualistic acts, but as expressions of a deeper commitment to ethical living. The text states that the "three garments" of the divine soul – thought, speech, and act – are engaged in the "613 commandments of the Torah." This implies that every aspect of our being, from our innermost thoughts to our outward behaviors, can be dedicated to fulfilling these ethical and spiritual directives. The benoni actively uses their intellect and will to redirect their focus from potentially harmful desires towards positive engagement, particularly in fulfilling the commandments. This isn't about rigid adherence, but about a mindful and intentional channeling of one's energies towards actions that foster good, both for oneself and for the world. The passage particularly highlights the power of the intellect ("wisdom surpasses folly as light surpasses darkness") to overcome base desires, suggesting that a well-cultivated mind is a crucial tool in this ongoing ethical endeavor. It’s a powerful affirmation of human agency and the capacity to choose a path of goodness through deliberate thought and action.

The Path of Continuous Growth and Repentance

While the benoni is described as never having committed a transgression, the text also subtly points towards the ongoing nature of spiritual development and the possibility of growth even after past mistakes. The footnotes mention that a benoni has not committed a sin, but the definition of a tzaddik (righteous person) is presented as one whose good deeds exceed the bad. This suggests that the benoni is a distinct, elevated category, achieved through consistent internal control.

However, the mention of continuous growth and repentance comes through the underlying philosophy of the Tanya. The text implies that the state of the benoni is maintained through ongoing effort, and that even after moments of weakness or temptation, the inherent capacity for good remains. The text also alludes to the idea that past offenses need not preclude one from attaining this level if there was "proper repentance." This is a crucial aspect of Jewish thought: the belief that individuals are not defined solely by their past actions, but by their capacity to learn, grow, and strive towards a higher ideal. The benoni represents a state of being that is constantly being reinforced, a testament to the idea that spiritual attainment is not a static achievement but a dynamic process. It encourages a perspective of hope and self-compassion, recognizing that the journey towards ethical living is ongoing, and that even when one falters, the path of return and continued effort is always available. This value speaks to the inherent dignity of every individual and the potential for transformation, a core tenet that permeates Jewish tradition.

Everyday Bridge

Imagine you're in a busy marketplace, and you see something you really want, but you know you shouldn't take it without paying. The benoni described in this text is like the person who, even though they feel that strong desire and might even think about how they could get it, actively stops themselves. They don't just passively resist; they consciously redirect their thoughts, perhaps focusing on the value of honesty or the potential harm of stealing.

For someone not on a specific religious path, this idea of the benoni can be a powerful metaphor for practicing mindful self-control in everyday decisions. It's about recognizing those moments when our immediate desires might clash with our longer-term values or principles. This could be anything from resisting an impulse purchase when you're trying to save money, to choosing to speak kindly when you feel angry, or even just taking a moment to pause before reacting to a frustrating situation. The "small city" can be seen as our personal space of decision-making. The benoni actively works to ensure that the "city" isn't overtaken by fleeting impulses. We can practice this by bringing a mindful awareness to our choices, asking ourselves: "Is this action aligned with the kind of person I want to be?" and then actively choosing a path that reflects those values, even when it's not the easiest or most immediate option. It’s about cultivating that inner strength to pause, reflect, and choose constructively, rather than being swept away by impulse.

Conversation Starter

When you feel comfortable and it feels natural, you could gently ask a Jewish friend:

1. "I was reading something about the idea of an 'intermediate' person in Jewish thought, someone who actively works to balance their desires and actions. Does that concept resonate with your understanding of spiritual growth?"
2. "This text talks about the importance of redirecting our thoughts when negative impulses arise. In your experience, what are some helpful ways to cultivate that kind of inner strength and focus?"

Takeaway

The Tanya invites us to see ourselves as active participants in our own spiritual and ethical development. The concept of the benoni isn't about achieving a perfect, effortless state, but about the ongoing, conscious effort to align our inner world with our highest values, demonstrating that even in the midst of life's complexities, we have the capacity to choose goodness and growth.