Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 12:7

Welcome

This passage from the Tanya, a foundational text in Chabad philosophy, offers a profound glimpse into a Jewish understanding of human nature and the inner spiritual life. It's not about achieving perfection, but about understanding the ongoing process of navigating our inner worlds, a journey that resonates with the aspirations of people across all backgrounds.

Context

The text you're about to explore emerges from a rich and deeply rooted intellectual and spiritual tradition within Judaism, specifically from the Chabad Hasidic movement. To fully appreciate its nuances, it's helpful to understand the world from which it sprang.

The World of the Tanya

• Origins and Author: The Tanya was penned by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (1745–1812), a towering figure in Hasidic Judaism. He was a scholar, mystic, and community leader who sought to make complex spiritual concepts accessible to a wider audience. The Tanya, his magnum opus, is considered the foundational text of the Chabad philosophy, aiming to systematize and explain the core teachings of Hasidism, which had emerged in Eastern Europe in the 18th century. Rabbi Shneur Zalman lived during a time of immense intellectual ferment and social upheaval. The Enlightenment was beginning to influence Jewish communities, and there was a growing engagement with secular philosophy and science. Simultaneously, Hasidism offered a deeply spiritual and emotional approach to Jewish life, emphasizing joy, devotion, and the presence of God in the everyday. The Tanya was written to bridge these worlds, to provide a framework for understanding the inner spiritual life that was both intellectually rigorous and deeply personal. It was intended to be a guide, not just for scholars, but for every Jew seeking a deeper connection with the Divine.

• The "Small City" Metaphor: The text uses the metaphor of a "small city" to represent the human being. This is a common allegorical device in Jewish thought, drawing parallels between the structure of a city with its various inhabitants and systems, and the human body with its organs, faculties, and impulses. The "city" contains a ruling center (the brain), communication channels (speech), and various departments (limbs) that carry out actions. Within this city, there are different forces at play, representing the various aspects of human personality and consciousness. The goal, according to the Tanya, is to ensure that the wise and benevolent leadership (representing the divine soul) is in control, guiding the city's activities towards positive and constructive ends, rather than being overtaken by less desirable influences. This metaphor allows for a vivid and relatable exploration of the internal struggles and decision-making processes that define human experience.

• The "Divine Soul" and the "Animal Soul": A central concept in the Tanya, and in much of Jewish mystical thought, is the idea of two distinct, yet interconnected, souls within a person: the Divine Soul (Hebrew: neshama elokit) and the Animal Soul (Hebrew: neshama behemit). The Divine Soul is the spark of the Divine within each individual, characterized by intellect, spirituality, and a natural inclination towards good, holiness, and connection with God. It is the source of our higher aspirations, our capacity for love, compassion, and ethical behavior. The Animal Soul, on the other hand, is the more primal, instinctual part of our being. It is the source of our physical desires, emotions, and drives, such as hunger, thirst, anger, and ego. It is not inherently evil, but it can be a powerful force that, if unchecked, can lead to selfish or harmful actions. The Tanya's aim is to explain how these two souls interact and how an individual can cultivate the dominance of the Divine Soul over the Animal Soul. This is not about eradicating the Animal Soul, but about channeling its energies constructively and ensuring it serves the higher purposes of the Divine Soul. The text posits that the Divine Soul's "garments" are thought, speech, and action directed towards fulfilling God's commandments, while the Animal Soul's "garments" are also thought, speech, and action, but these can be driven by selfish desires and lead to transgressions.

Text Snapshot

This passage describes a person called the benoni, or the "intermediate" individual. This person is not entirely virtuous, nor are they wicked. They possess both a "divine soul" and an "animal soul." The key is that the animal soul's negative impulses, like selfish desires, are never strong enough to fully control the "small city" of the self. While these desires might arise, especially after moments of intense spiritual focus, the individual's inherent intellect and innate connection to the divine prevent these impulses from leading to actual sin. Instead, their thoughts, speech, and actions are primarily directed towards positive actions and the fulfillment of religious duties, driven by the divine soul's influence.

Values Lens

This text illuminates several fundamental human values, presenting them through a unique spiritual lens. These are not just abstract ideals, but dynamic forces that shape our inner lives and our interactions with the world.

### The Value of Inner Balance and Self-Mastery

The core of this passage lies in its exploration of the internal struggle for balance, a concept that resonates universally. The text introduces the idea of two distinct forces within a person: the "divine soul" and the "animal soul." The divine soul represents our higher aspirations, our capacity for love, compassion, and connection to something greater than ourselves. The animal soul, on the other hand, embodies our primal instincts, our physical desires, and our ego. The benoni, the "intermediate" person described here, is not someone who has eliminated their animal soul, but rather someone who has achieved a crucial degree of self-mastery.

• Universal Resonance: The concept of balancing our desires and impulses is a cornerstone of human experience. From childhood, we learn to temper immediate gratification for long-term goals. Think of the discipline required to pursue an education, build a career, or maintain healthy relationships. These endeavors all involve managing the pull of immediate comfort or pleasure in favor of a more meaningful, albeit sometimes more challenging, outcome. Philosophers throughout history, from ancient Greek thinkers like Aristotle, who spoke of virtue as a mean between extremes, to modern psychologists emphasizing emotional regulation, have grappled with this fundamental human challenge. The struggle to not give in to anger, jealousy, or laziness, and instead to choose patience, kindness, or diligence, is a testament to this universal value.

• Jewish Tradition: Within Judaism, this value is deeply embedded. The Torah is replete with commandments that guide behavior and encourage self-control. The concept of yetzer hara (evil inclination) and yetzer hatov (good inclination) is central to understanding this inner dynamic. The benoni is not someone who has eradicated their yetzer hara, but someone who has learned to manage it. This is reflected in the emphasis on teshuvah (repentance), not as a state of perfect purity, but as an ongoing process of returning and recommitting. The Talmudic saying, "A wise person is one who foresees the consequence," underscores the importance of using intellect to control impulsive actions. Even in the liturgical realm, the daily prayers are designed to center one's thoughts and intentions, acting as a spiritual anchor against the pull of worldly distractions. This passage elevates the benoni not as a saint, but as someone who consistently navigates this internal landscape with a degree of success that prevents harm.

• Examples in Practice: Consider the act of saving money. The animal soul might urge immediate spending on a luxury item, while the divine soul recognizes the value of future security and invests. Or, in a moment of conflict, the animal soul might fuel a desire for retaliation, while the divine soul encourages understanding and forgiveness. The benoni is the one who, even when tempted, actively redirects their thoughts and actions towards the latter, not out of a lack of temptation, but out of a developed capacity to choose. This internal wrestling match, the conscious decision to align one's actions with higher values despite internal urges, is the essence of self-mastery. It is the quiet victory of choosing the path of integrity and purpose over the easy road of unbridled impulse.

### The Value of Intellectual Engagement and Conscious Choice

This text places a significant emphasis on the role of intellect and conscious choice in spiritual and ethical development. It posits that the "divine soul" operates through faculties like thought, understanding, and knowledge, and that these faculties are crucial in governing our actions. The benoni is characterized by their ability to use their intellect to restrain impulses and direct their behavior.

• Universal Resonance: The power of the mind to shape our reality is a universally recognized phenomenon. From problem-solving in our daily lives to the development of complex scientific theories, human progress is intrinsically linked to our intellectual capacities. The ability to reason, to analyze, and to make deliberate choices is what distinguishes us. We see this in education, where the goal is to cultivate critical thinking; in therapy, where understanding our thought patterns is key to emotional well-being; and in ethical decision-making, where weighing consequences and understanding motivations are paramount. The very act of making a conscious decision, rather than acting purely on instinct, is a demonstration of this value. It is the space between stimulus and response where our humanity truly resides.

• Jewish Tradition: In Jewish thought, the intellect (chochmah, binah, daat – wisdom, understanding, knowledge, often abbreviated as chabad) holds a place of profound importance. The Shema prayer, mentioned in the text, is an affirmation of God's oneness, deeply rooted in intellectual comprehension and heartfelt love. The emphasis on studying Torah is not merely about memorizing texts, but about engaging the mind in understanding divine wisdom. The legalistic framework of Jewish law (halakha) requires careful deliberation and intellectual application. The text highlights that even when negative thoughts arise, the benoni's intellect can actively reject them, preventing them from solidifying into actions. This active intellectual engagement is seen as a safeguard, a means of consciously choosing to align oneself with higher principles. Maimonides, a highly influential Jewish philosopher, stressed the importance of intellectual pursuit as a path to closeness with God. This passage echoes that sentiment, suggesting that the disciplined use of our minds is essential for spiritual growth.

• Examples in Practice: Consider the decision to act with kindness towards someone who has wronged you. The initial emotional response, driven by the animal soul, might be anger or resentment. However, the benoni consciously engages their intellect, recalling teachings about forgiveness or empathy. They choose to override the immediate emotional reaction and instead act in a way that aligns with their higher values, perhaps by offering a conciliatory word or seeking understanding. This isn't about suppressing emotions entirely, but about using the mind as a discerning force that guides the emotional and behavioral responses. The text suggests that even when a "sinful thought" arises, the benoni actively "thrusts it out with both hands," a powerful image of intellectual agency and deliberate rejection. This active mental process of discernment and rejection is a profound example of intellectual engagement in action. It's the conscious decision to not allow a negative thought to take root and manifest, but to actively redirect one's mental energy towards more constructive paths.

### The Value of Persistent Effort and Spiritual Ascent

This passage, while describing the benoni as someone who has achieved a stable state of being, also implicitly acknowledges the ongoing nature of spiritual effort. The mention of specific times of prayer, like the recital of the Shema and Amidah, suggests that spiritual engagement is not a static achievement but a dynamic process that requires consistent dedication and renewal.

• Universal Resonance: The idea that significant achievements require sustained effort is a universal truth. Whether it's mastering a musical instrument, becoming proficient in a sport, or building a successful business, the path to excellence is paved with practice, perseverance, and overcoming setbacks. The concept of resilience – the ability to bounce back from challenges – is a deeply valued human trait. We admire individuals who, despite facing adversity, continue to strive towards their goals. This persistence is not about an absence of difficulty, but about the courage and determination to keep going in its presence. The journey of personal growth is rarely linear; it involves ebb and flow, periods of progress and moments of stagnation, all of which demand a commitment to continue the effort.

• Jewish Tradition: Jewish tradition is rich with examples of persistent effort in the pursuit of spiritual goals. The very concept of mitzvah (commandment) implies an ongoing practice, a series of actions that shape character over time. The weekly cycle of Shabbat, the annual cycle of holidays, and the daily rhythm of prayer all reinforce the importance of consistent engagement. The idea of avodah (service), particularly in a spiritual context, emphasizes the dedication and effort required to serve God. The benoni's state is not necessarily a permanent, effortless perfection, but a sustained commitment. The text notes that even after prayer, the "evil" can reawaken, implying that vigilance and continued effort are necessary to maintain the balance. The emphasis on "binding one's faculties to God" during prayer suggests a deliberate and active engagement, not a passive reception of spiritual grace. This highlights the understanding that spiritual progress is earned through consistent, devoted action.

• Examples in Practice: Consider an artist who dedicates hours each day to their craft, even when inspiration wanes or when a particular piece isn't going well. They don't abandon their art; they persist, refining their technique, experimenting with new approaches, and trusting that their consistent effort will lead to growth. Similarly, a person committed to a healthy lifestyle doesn't give up after one unhealthy meal; they recognize it as a temporary deviation and recommit to their overall plan. The benoni's spiritual life, as described, involves moments of heightened spiritual awareness (during prayer) and then a period of maintaining that connection through conscious effort in daily life. This is about the ongoing work of ensuring that the "divine soul" remains in control, not through a single heroic act, but through a sustained, daily commitment to positive thought, speech, and action. It's the quiet, determined effort to live a life aligned with one's highest values, even when the path is not always easy.

Everyday Bridge

This passage, while rooted in a specific religious framework, offers profound insights into the universal human experience of managing our inner lives. The concept of the benoni – the "intermediate" person who is neither perfectly righteous nor entirely flawed – provides a relatable model for navigating our own internal landscapes. Here are a few ways to bridge this text to everyday life, fostering understanding and respect for the spiritual journey:

### Option 1: Cultivating Mindful Self-Awareness

• How to Practice: The text emphasizes the dynamic interplay between one's "divine soul" and "animal soul," and the ability of the intellect to govern impulses. You can cultivate this by practicing mindfulness or simple self-awareness throughout your day. When you notice a strong urge or emotion – be it frustration, desire, or impatience – pause for a moment. Ask yourself: "What is this impulse telling me? Is it serving my higher values, or is it driven by a more primal need or ego-driven reaction?" This pause, this moment of conscious observation, mirrors the benoni's ability to prevent impulses from immediately translating into action. It's about creating a space for conscious choice, rather than automatic reaction.

• Why it Bridges: This practice directly addresses the core idea of internal governance. It acknowledges that we all have competing impulses and desires. By becoming more aware of these, without judgment, we gain the capacity to choose our responses more deliberately. This is a universally applicable skill that can improve relationships, reduce stress, and foster a greater sense of inner peace, regardless of one's religious background. It respects the complexity of human psychology and the effort involved in self-regulation.

### Option 2: The Practice of Intentional Kindness

• How to Practice: The text highlights how the benoni actively directs their thoughts, speech, and actions towards positive outcomes, even when faced with negative inclinations. You can practice this through intentional acts of kindness and generosity. Make a conscious decision to offer a compliment, to listen attentively to someone, to help a stranger, or to forgive a minor offense. Before acting, consider the impact of your words and deeds. This isn't about being performative, but about making a deliberate choice to contribute positively to the world around you, mirroring the benoni's commitment to aligning their actions with their "divine soul's" aspirations.

• Why it Bridges: This practice taps into the universal human desire to be good and to make a positive difference. It moves beyond simply avoiding harm to actively creating good. It resonates with the idea that our actions, driven by our intentions, have a tangible impact on ourselves and others. By consciously choosing kindness, we are actively reinforcing the "good" within our own "small city," promoting harmony and connection, much like the benoni strives to do. It’s a practical application of the text’s emphasis on directing our faculties towards positive fulfillment.

### Option 3: Reframing Challenges as Opportunities for Growth

• How to Practice: The passage suggests that the "evil" or negative impulses within us are not eliminated but managed. This implies that challenges and temptations are not necessarily signs of failure, but rather opportunities to exercise our inner strength and wisdom. When you face a difficult situation or a personal temptation, instead of seeing it as a setback, try to reframe it as an opportunity to practice self-control, resilience, or to deepen your understanding of your own inner workings. Ask yourself: "What can I learn from this? How can this experience strengthen my resolve?"

• Why it Bridges: This approach fosters a healthy perspective on personal growth. It acknowledges that life is full of challenges and that perfection is an unrealistic expectation. By viewing difficulties as learning opportunities, we can cultivate a more compassionate and resilient mindset. This aligns with the text's nuanced view of the benoni, who is not without their struggles but navigates them with a degree of success that prevents them from being overcome. It encourages a proactive and empowering approach to personal development that is universally applicable.

Conversation Starter

Engaging with Jewish friends about their traditions can be a deeply enriching experience. When exploring texts like the Tanya, approaching the conversation with genuine curiosity and respect is key. Here are some questions designed to open a thoughtful dialogue, focusing on shared human experiences rather than demanding expertise:

### Question 1: Exploring Inner Balance

• Question: "I was reading about the idea of an 'intermediate person' in a Jewish text, someone who has both good and challenging impulses but manages to keep the challenging ones from taking over. It got me thinking about how we all navigate our own inner worlds. What are some ways that Jewish tradition or your own personal practice helps you find balance when you're feeling pulled in different directions?"

• Why this question: This question is designed to be open-ended and relatable. It frames the concept of the benoni in a universal context of "inner balance" and "pulled in different directions," which most people can understand. It avoids making assumptions about the friend's level of observance or knowledge and instead invites them to share their personal perspective or insights from their tradition. It focuses on the process of navigating challenges, rather than on achieving a perfect state. This can lead to conversations about prayer, meditation, ethical decision-making, or even simple daily routines that help them stay grounded. The phrasing "Jewish tradition or your own personal practice" allows them to draw from both formal teachings and their lived experience, offering a more authentic and comfortable response.

### Question 2: The Role of Thought and Action

• Question: "The text I was looking at spoke a lot about how our thoughts, speech, and actions are connected, and how important it is for our good thoughts to guide our actions, even when we have less helpful impulses. In your experience, how do you see the connection between what's going on in our minds and how we choose to act in the world? Are there practices or ideas that help you ensure your actions reflect your best intentions?"

• Why this question: This question delves into the practical application of internal states to external behavior, a theme prominent in the Tanya. By asking about the "connection between what's going on in our minds and how we choose to act," you are inviting your friend to discuss the relationship between intention and deed, a concept relevant to ethics and personal responsibility across cultures. The mention of "less helpful impulses" acknowledges the reality of human imperfection without judgment. The follow-up about "practices or ideas that help you ensure your actions reflect your best intentions" encourages concrete examples, such as ethical frameworks, community values, or personal disciplines. This allows for a discussion about the intentional effort required to live a values-driven life, making the abstract concepts of the text more tangible and understandable. It also subtly touches upon the idea of intellectual control over impulses, a key element of the benoni.

Takeaway

The wisdom found in this passage from the Tanya, and in Jewish tradition more broadly, is not about achieving an unattainable state of perfection. Instead, it offers a profound and practical framework for understanding the human condition: we are complex beings with a spectrum of impulses and aspirations. The ideal, as presented through the concept of the benoni, is not to eliminate our challenges, but to cultivate the inner strength, wisdom, and consistent effort to navigate them. By learning to balance our drives, engage our intellect, and commit to positive action, we can all strive towards a more integrated and purposeful life, a journey that resonates deeply with the universal human quest for meaning and connection.