Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 13:1

Hook

Ever feel like you're wrestling with yourself? Like there's a little voice in your head cheering for you to do good, and another one whispering, "Psst, have a cookie instead"? You're definitely not alone! Many of us navigate this internal tug-of-war. We want to be good, to do the right thing, to live up to our values, but sometimes, our impulses or desires seem to have other plans. It’s a classic human experience, and it's something Jewish tradition has pondered deeply for centuries. Today, we’re going to peek into an ancient text that offers a fascinating perspective on this inner struggle, not to tell you you're "good" or "bad," but to help you understand this dynamic in a whole new way. Get ready to explore the idea of being an "intermediate person" – a concept that might just feel more familiar than you think.

Context

Let's set the scene for this fascinating piece of wisdom.

Who and When?

• This text comes from the Tanya, a foundational work of Chabad Hasidic philosophy. It was written by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi in the late 18th century.
• The Tanya is known for making complex spiritual ideas accessible, aiming to guide individuals in their personal spiritual journeys.

Where and Why?

• The Tanya was written primarily in Eastern Europe, a region with a rich and vibrant Jewish intellectual life.
• Rabbi Schneur Zalman wanted to provide practical guidance for everyday Jews to understand their inner lives and connect more deeply with their faith.

Key Term Defined:

• Benoni (בֵּינוֹנִי): This is a Hebrew word meaning "intermediate" or "in between." In the context of the Tanya, it describes a person who is not definitively righteous nor wicked, but somewhere in the middle, constantly navigating their inner world. It’s like being in the middle lane of a highway – you’re not on the far right (super saintly!) or the far left (uh oh!), but in the flow, where most of us spend our time.

Text Snapshot

Here's a taste of what Rabbi Schneur Zalman is exploring, in his own words (or at least, a very helpful translation!):

"Therewith will be understood the commentary of our Sages that 'intermediate people are judged by both [the good and evil natures], for it is written, ‘When He stands at the right of the destitute to deliver him from the judges of his soul.’' [...] The evil nature [in the benoni], however, is no more than, for example, a magistrate or judge who gives his opinion on a point of law, yet it is not necessarily a final decision to be implemented in deed, for there is another magistrate or judge who is contesting this opinion. It is, therefore, necessary to arbitrate between the two, and the final verdict rests with the arbitrator. Similarly, the evil nature states its opinion in the left part of the heart, which thence ascends to the brain for contemplation. Immediately it is challenged by the second judge, the divine soul in the brain extending into the right part of the heart, the abode of the good nature. The final verdict comes from the arbitrator—the Holy One, blessed is He, who comes to the aid of the good nature..."

(Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 13:1, Sefaria)

Close Reading

This passage is packed with insights about our inner lives! Let's break down a few key takeaways that can help us understand ourselves better.

### The Two "Judges" Within

Rabbi Schneur Zalman uses a really interesting metaphor: the idea of two "judges" or impulses within us. He explains that our Sages spoke of "judges" in the plural, referring allegorically to the two impulses that motivate our actions. Think of it like having two distinct voices in your head, each presenting a case. One is the inclination towards what we might call "evil" or the "animal soul" (more on that in a bit!), and the other is the inclination towards what is good, the "divine soul."

• The "Evil" Impulse as a Magistrate: The text says the evil nature is like a magistrate or judge who gives an opinion. This is super important: it's an opinion, not necessarily a final, unchangeable decree. It presents its case, perhaps whispering temptations or rationalizations for less-than-ideal behavior. It might say, "Go ahead, have that extra slice of cake, you deserve it!" or "Why bother with that difficult task right now?" It’s like a lawyer arguing a point.
• The "Good" Impulse as Another Judge: But immediately, this opinion is challenged. This is where the divine soul, residing in our intellect (the brain), steps in. This is the part of us that yearns for higher things, for kindness, for connection, for living according to our values. It’s like another lawyer on the opposing side, presenting the case for restraint, for effort, for doing the right thing. It might counter, "Remember your health goals," or "Think about how good you'll feel when this is done."
• The Arbitration and the Verdict: The text explains that there's a need to arbitrate between these two opposing opinions. And who is the ultimate arbitrator? The Holy One, blessed be He. This isn't meant to be a literal divine courtroom, but rather a beautiful way of saying that we have a connection to something higher, a source of strength that aids our good inclinations. When we connect to this divine spark within us, it helps us to overcome the pull of our lower desires. It's like having a wise mediator who helps us see things more clearly and make better choices.

### The "Small City" and the Power of Thought

Rabbi Schneur Zalman uses another metaphor: the "small city" to represent the human body. The brain is like the city hall or the command center. The "divine soul" is in the brain, and it has the power to exert control over the entire body – the "small city."

• Dominion of the Mind: Even when the "evil" inclination is strong, if the divine soul, through our intellect, gains the upper hand, it can direct our thoughts, speech, and actions towards good. This means that even if you feel a strong urge for something you know isn't right, your ability to think about it, to contemplate it, and to choose a different path, is a powerful tool. The text states that the divine soul in the intellect rules over the "small city," making the body a "garment and vehicle" for its good intentions. This highlights the incredible power we have through our minds to direct our physical selves.
• "Garments" of Thought, Speech, and Action: The Tanya explains that the divine soul uses our "garments" – our thoughts, speech, and actions – to carry out the commandments of the Torah. This is a profound idea. It means that our inner intentions and our outward expressions are deeply connected. When our divine soul is in charge, our thoughts can be directed towards understanding, our speech towards kindness, and our actions towards mitzvot (commandments, good deeds). This isn't about being perfect, but about recognizing that our inner world has a direct impact on our outer world, and that we have the capacity to steer that ship.

### The "Intermediate Person" (Benoni) and Self-Awareness

The concept of the benoni is central here. It’s not about being a perfect saint (a tzaddik), but about being honest with ourselves about our ongoing journey.

• Not Quite a Tzaddik: The text cautions against thinking that our good deeds automatically erase our struggles. Even if we are diligent in our spiritual practices, the "evil" inclination might still be present, just perhaps not actively dictating our every move. It's like a sleeping bear – it's still there, and it can wake up! The benoni understands this. They don't assume their struggle is over.
• The Importance of Humility: The Sages famously said, "Even if the whole world tells you that you are righteous, in your own eyes regard yourself as if you were wicked." This is not about self-deprecation or guilt. It's about maintaining a healthy sense of humility and self-awareness. It’s a reminder that the work of refining ourselves is ongoing. By not resting on our laurels, we stay more vigilant and continue to strive for growth. It’s like an athlete who, even after winning a competition, continues to train diligently, knowing that there’s always room for improvement.

Apply It

This week, let's try a tiny practice to connect with the idea of the "two judges" within. It only takes about 60 seconds a day.

A Daily "Inner Arbitration" Moment

Your Practice: Choose one moment each day, perhaps when you wake up, before a meal, or before bed. Close your eyes for just 60 seconds and bring to mind a small, everyday decision you might face. For example, "Should I check my phone right now, or take a few deep breaths?" or "Should I respond to that email with a quick, sharp word, or take a moment to craft a kinder response?"

• First 20 seconds: Acknowledge the "magistrate" representing the easier or more impulsive choice (the "evil" inclination). Simply notice what it's suggesting. No judgment, just observation.
• Next 20 seconds: Acknowledge the "magistrate" representing the more thoughtful or virtuous choice (the "divine" inclination). Notice what that impulse is guiding you towards.
• Final 20 seconds: Imagine a gentle, wise arbitrator (representing that connection to the Divine) helping you lean towards the more constructive choice. You don't have to force anything; just create a space for that gentle arbitration.

The goal isn't to make a perfect choice every time, but to simply become more aware of the internal dialogue and practice intentionally leaning towards the higher path, even for a fleeting moment.

Chevruta Mini

Grab a friend, family member, or even just talk to yourself! These questions can spark some friendly discussion.

### Question 1: The "Inner Judge" Experience

Think about a time you felt that internal tug-of-war – where you had a desire that conflicted with what you felt was the "right" thing to do. How did it feel? Did you notice different "voices" or impulses at play? What do you think the "arbitrator" might have suggested in that situation?

### Question 2: The "Small City" and Our Actions

The text describes the body as a "small city" controlled by the mind (where the divine soul resides). How does this idea change how you think about your daily actions? When you're about to speak or act, can you imagine your "divine soul" in the "city hall" (your brain) making the decision, rather than just reacting impulsively?

Takeaway

Remember this: The journey of being human is about navigating the ongoing conversation between your different inner impulses, and you have a spark of the Divine within to help guide you towards the good.