Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 13:1

This is a fascinating and deeply insightful text. Let's explore it together with curiosity and respect.

Welcome

This passage from the Tanya, a foundational text in Chabad Hasidic philosophy, offers a profound perspective on the internal human experience. It delves into the complex interplay of our desires and motivations, a theme that resonates universally. For Jewish people, understanding this text means engaging with a rich tradition of self-reflection and spiritual striving, seeking to connect with the divine within the everyday. It speaks to the ongoing journey of understanding ourselves and our place in the world.

Context

Who, When, and Where

• Who: The Tanya was authored by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (1745–1812), a prominent scholar and mystic, and the founder of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, a branch of Hasidic Judaism. He was a highly respected figure known for his intellectual prowess and his ability to articulate complex spiritual ideas in accessible ways. The text is written in a style that assumes a certain level of engagement with Jewish thought, but its core ideas aim to be broadly applicable.
• When: Rabbi Shneur Zalman lived during a period of immense societal and intellectual change in Eastern Europe. The Enlightenment (Haskalah) was gaining momentum, challenging traditional Jewish life and thought. At the same time, the Hasidic movement, which emphasized emotional connection to God and spiritual joy, was flourishing. The Tanya was written as a response to these times, offering a framework for maintaining Jewish spiritual vitality and understanding the inner life amidst external pressures. It was first published in 1797.
• Where: The Tanya was written primarily in the Russian Empire, in areas that are now part of Belarus and Ukraine. This region was home to a large and vibrant Jewish population, with both traditional communities and burgeoning intellectual and spiritual movements. The environment was one of intense intellectual and religious discourse, where ideas about faith, reason, and human nature were being debated vigorously.

Defining a Key Term

• Benoni (בניוני): This Hebrew term translates to "intermediate" or "average" person. In the context of the Tanya, it doesn't mean someone who is mediocre or unremarkable, but rather a person who is in a constant state of internal struggle. They are not fully righteous (tzaddik) who have overcome their negative inclinations, nor are they wicked (rasha) who have succumbed to them. The benoni is characterized by the ongoing battle between their good and evil impulses, and their spiritual state is determined by how they navigate this internal conflict. This concept is central to the passage, as it describes the daily reality for most people.

The World of the Text

To truly appreciate this passage from the Tanya, it's helpful to step back and consider the world in which Rabbi Shneur Zalman was writing and thinking. This was a time when the very foundations of Jewish life were being questioned and re-examined. The Enlightenment, with its emphasis on reason, science, and individual autonomy, presented a powerful intellectual challenge to traditional religious beliefs and practices. Many Jews were drawn to these new ideas, leading to internal divisions within Jewish communities.

Simultaneously, the Hasidic movement, which had emerged a generation or two earlier, was offering a different kind of spiritual revolution. It emphasized a deeply personal and emotional connection to God, often through joyous prayer, communal gatherings, and the guidance of charismatic leaders (tzaddikim). Hasidism sought to make Jewish spirituality vibrant and accessible to the masses, not just to scholars.

Rabbi Shneur Zalman, as a leading figure in this era, was deeply immersed in both the traditional intellectual heritage of Judaism and the emerging spiritual currents. He was a brilliant Talmudist and philosopher, trained in the rigorous methods of yeshiva study. Yet, he was also a fervent Hasid, committed to the movement's core teachings of divine immanence and the importance of love for God.

The Tanya, particularly its first part, Likkutei Amarim (Collected Sayings), was conceived as a comprehensive guide to understanding the Jewish soul and its spiritual journey. Rabbi Shneur Zalman recognized that many people, caught between the allure of secular knowledge and the demands of traditional faith, were experiencing internal turmoil. They grappled with doubts, desires, and a sense of being pulled in multiple directions.

He observed that the prevailing spiritual paradigms – either one was a tzaddik (righteous) or a rasha (wicked) – felt too absolute for the lived reality of most individuals. These categories, while important, didn't fully capture the nuanced, day-to-day experience of striving, failing, and trying again. This is where the concept of the benoni became so crucial. It offered a framework for understanding and navigating the spiritual landscape of the "average" person, acknowledging the ongoing struggle without condemning it.

The text draws heavily on the rich tapestry of Jewish mystical thought, particularly Kabbalah, which explores the hidden dimensions of the divine and the human soul. However, Rabbi Shneur Zalman's genius lay in his ability to translate these often abstruse concepts into practical guidance for everyday life. He used analogies and metaphors that would resonate with his readers, making profound spiritual insights accessible.

The "small city" metaphor, for instance, refers to the human body, with its various "limbs" and "organs" representing different aspects of our being. The "brain" is often seen as the seat of intellect and reason, while the "heart" is the locus of emotions and desires. This understanding of the human psyche as an intricate system, capable of both great nobility and significant struggle, is a hallmark of his teaching.

Furthermore, the passage alludes to a long-standing debate within Jewish thought about the nature of good and evil. Where does the impulse for wrongdoing come from? How can one overcome it? The Tanya presents a sophisticated view, suggesting that these impulses are not external forces but are inherent parts of human nature, residing within us. The challenge, then, is not to eradicate them entirely (which might be impossible for most) but to manage them, to ensure that the divine spark within us remains in control.

The emphasis on "God's help" is also deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. While individual effort is paramount, there's a profound understanding that spiritual growth is a partnership between humanity and the divine. This isn't about passive waiting for salvation, but about actively engaging in the struggle, knowing that divine assistance is available to those who seek it sincerely.

In essence, the Tanya emerged from a vibrant and complex historical moment, drawing upon centuries of Jewish wisdom to offer a profound and practical guide to the inner life. It speaks to the universal human experience of wrestling with one's own nature, and it provides a framework for finding meaning and purpose within that struggle.

Text Snapshot

This excerpt from the Tanya describes the internal battle within a person, who is considered an "intermediate" (benoni). It explains that this person has both good and evil inclinations, like two judges offering opposing opinions. The evil inclination resides in the "left part of the heart," driven by worldly desires. The good inclination, fueled by the divine soul, is in the "right part of the heart" and is located in the brain, contemplating God's greatness. While the evil impulse might offer its "opinion," it doesn't necessarily lead to action if the good inclination, with divine help, gains the upper hand. The person is likened to a wicked person in their own eyes, not because they are truly wicked, but to remain humble and vigilant, recognizing that the evil impulse, though subdued, remains potent and can reawaken. This constant internal arbitration, where divine light aids the good, is the essence of the benoni's spiritual life.

Values Lens

This passage elevates several profound human values, offering a unique perspective on their significance.

### The Value of Self-Awareness and Honest Self-Appraisal

One of the most striking values illuminated here is the importance of self-awareness and honest self-appraisal. The text doesn't shy away from the complexities of human nature. Instead, it encourages a deep dive into one's own inner landscape, acknowledging the presence of both noble aspirations and less desirable impulses.

• Universal Human Experience: Most people, at some point, have experienced internal conflict. We might have a desire to do something good, like volunteer or be patient, but find ourselves drawn to something more immediately gratifying, like staying home or expressing frustration. This internal tug-of-war is a common thread in the human experience, regardless of background or belief. Recognizing this duality is the first step towards understanding ourselves.
• Jewish Tradition: Within Jewish thought, the idea of teshuvah (repentance or returning) is deeply intertwined with self-awareness. It's not just about apologizing for wrongdoing, but about a thorough examination of one's actions, motivations, and character. The verse cited in the text, "Even if the whole world tells you that you are righteous, in your own eyes regard yourself as if you were wicked," is a powerful directive towards cultivating humility and a constant striving for improvement. It's not about self-deprecation, but about recognizing that spiritual growth is an ongoing process, and there's always more to learn and refine within ourselves. This encourages a mindset of perpetual learning and refinement, rather than complacency.
• Everyday Application: We can practice this by taking moments to reflect on our day. What went well? What could have been better? Not in a judgmental way, but with a gentle curiosity. For example, if you found yourself getting impatient with a colleague, instead of just feeling guilty, you might ask yourself, "What was it about that situation that triggered my impatience? Was I tired? Stressed? Was there a misunderstanding?" This kind of honest self-inquiry, without harsh judgment, is a powerful tool for personal growth. It allows us to identify patterns and make conscious choices to act differently in the future. It’s about understanding the "why" behind our actions and reactions.

### The Value of Vigilance and Conscious Effort in Spiritual and Moral Growth

Another crucial value highlighted is vigilance and conscious effort in spiritual and moral growth. The text presents the spiritual journey not as a passive state but as an active, ongoing process requiring deliberate engagement.

• Universal Human Experience: Think about any skill or aspiration we value – learning a musical instrument, excelling in a sport, building a strong relationship, or pursuing a career goal. None of these are achieved without consistent effort, practice, and a certain level of vigilance. We must actively choose to dedicate time, energy, and focus to them. Similarly, cultivating positive character traits like kindness, patience, or integrity requires conscious effort. We have to actively choose to act kindly, to be patient, or to be honest, even when it's difficult.
• Jewish Tradition: The concept of mitzvot (commandments or good deeds) in Judaism is not merely a list of rules to follow but a framework for actively shaping one's character and life. Each mitzvah is an opportunity to engage with the divine and to practice ethical behavior. The idea of "serving" God implies an active and engaged relationship. The text's emphasis on the "divine soul in the brain" extending into the "right part of the heart" suggests that our intellect and our emotions must work together in a conscious and directed way towards higher goals. This requires constant attention and effort to ensure that our actions align with our deepest values. The analogy of the "sleeping man" whose evil can "wake up again" underscores the need for ongoing vigilance. Spiritual and moral progress isn't a one-time achievement; it's a continuous process of renewal and recommitment.
• Everyday Application: This value can be applied by consciously choosing to engage in practices that foster personal growth. For instance, if you're trying to be more mindful, it means actively remembering to pause and be present throughout the day, rather than passively waiting to "feel" mindful. If you're working on improving communication, it might involve consciously choosing to listen more than you speak in conversations or practicing active listening techniques. It's about recognizing that positive change requires deliberate action and ongoing commitment. This could manifest as setting aside time for quiet reflection, engaging in activities that nourish your spirit (like reading inspiring books, spending time in nature, or creating art), or consciously practicing empathy in your interactions with others. The key is the intentionality – the deliberate choice to nurture these aspects of yourself.

### The Value of Divine Partnership and Trust in a Higher Power

Finally, the passage underscores the profound value of divine partnership and trust in a higher power. While emphasizing personal effort, it also clearly states that this effort is supported by a divine presence.

• Universal Human Experience: Many people across different cultures and belief systems speak of experiencing a sense of guidance, support, or strength that seems to come from beyond themselves. This might be described as intuition, luck, serendipity, or the feeling of being "carried" through difficult times. Even those who identify as secular might speak of a sense of interconnectedness with the universe or a deep trust in the unfolding of life. This experience, however it's articulated, reflects a recognition that there can be forces at play that extend beyond our individual control or comprehension.
• Jewish Tradition: The phrase "the Holy One, blessed is He, who comes to the aid of the good nature" is central here. This reflects a core belief in Judaism that God is actively involved in the world and in the lives of individuals. This isn't a distant, uninvolved deity, but one who intervenes and supports those who strive for good. The verse "If the Holy One, blessed is He, did not help him, he could not overcome his evil inclination" is a powerful statement of this interdependence. It acknowledges the immense challenge of overcoming ingrained negative tendencies and highlights the necessity of divine assistance in this struggle. This divine partnership is not about abdication of responsibility but about a profound trust that our efforts are amplified and supported by a benevolent power.
• Everyday Application: For someone outside of a traditional Jewish context, this can translate into cultivating a sense of trust and openness to the flow of life. It might involve recognizing and appreciating moments of serendipity or feeling a sense of gratitude for unexpected help. It could mean approaching challenges with a sense of hope and believing that there is a guiding force or a larger purpose at play, even if it's not fully understood. This isn't about blind faith, but about acknowledging that sometimes, when we do our best, things seem to fall into place in ways that feel larger than our own efforts. It's about cultivating a sense of inner peace and resilience by trusting that there is a benevolent order to things, and that we are not alone in our struggles. This can be as simple as taking a moment before a difficult task to breathe deeply and affirm a sense of calm and confidence, or expressing gratitude for the positive aspects of one's life, acknowledging that these blessings may stem from a source beyond oneself.

Everyday Bridge

This passage, while deeply rooted in a specific spiritual tradition, offers numerous avenues for connection and practice for those who are not Jewish. The core ideas of internal struggle, the importance of conscious effort, and the presence of guiding forces are universally human.

### Option 1: The "Internal Referee" Practice

• How it relates: The text vividly describes the internal dialogue between good and evil impulses, likening them to opposing judges. The "benoni" is the one who must arbitrate between these conflicting voices.
• How to practice: You can consciously cultivate this "internal referee" practice in your daily life. When faced with a decision or a moment of temptation, pause and identify the different voices or impulses at play. One voice might urge immediate gratification, while another might suggest a more thoughtful, delayed, or ethical course of action. Instead of automatically acting on the first impulse, try to step back and be the referee. Ask yourself:
  • "What is this impulse trying to get me to do?"
  • "What are the potential consequences of acting on it?"
  • "What is the alternative, more thoughtful or beneficial path?"
  • "Which choice aligns best with my long-term values and goals?"
• Cultural Sensitivity: This practice is inherently respectful because it focuses on the shared human experience of decision-making and self-regulation. It doesn't require any specific religious belief or terminology. It's about developing a more mindful approach to your own thoughts and desires, which is a universally valued skill. You are simply observing and guiding your own internal processes.

### Option 2: Cultivating a "Personal Growth Journal" Focused on Intentions

• How it relates: The text emphasizes that the "benoni" doesn't passively succumb to their negative inclinations but actively engages in a struggle, aided by divine light. This implies a commitment to ongoing growth and effort.
• How to practice: You can create a "Personal Growth Journal" where you focus on your intentions for the day or week, and then reflect on how you acted upon them.
  • Morning Intention Setting: At the beginning of your day, write down one or two specific intentions related to personal growth or ethical behavior. For example: "Today, I intend to practice more patience in my interactions," or "Today, I intend to be more present and mindful during my work."
  • Evening Reflection: At the end of the day, review your intentions. Honestly, but kindly, reflect on how you lived up to them. If you succeeded, acknowledge and appreciate it. If you faltered, don't dwell on self-criticism. Instead, gently note where you struggled and consider what you might try differently tomorrow.
  • Focus on Effort, Not Perfection: The key is to focus on the effort and the intention, rather than demanding perfection. This mirrors the Tanya's perspective that the struggle itself, when guided by good intentions, is significant.
• Cultural Sensitivity: This practice is about personal development, a pursuit valued across cultures. It encourages self-reflection and conscious effort towards becoming a better version of oneself. It doesn't impose any religious dogma, but rather fosters a disciplined and intentional approach to living, which is a fundamental human aspiration.

### Option 3: Practicing "Gratitude for Support"

• How it relates: The passage speaks of divine help that aids the good inclination. This highlights the idea that we are not entirely alone in our struggles and that there can be forces or influences that support our efforts.
• How to practice: Cultivate a practice of recognizing and appreciating the support you receive, both tangible and intangible.
  • Identify Sources of Support: Think about people in your life who offer encouragement, guidance, or practical help. This could be friends, family, mentors, or even supportive colleagues.
  • Acknowledge Unseen Support: Also, consider the less tangible forms of support. This might be a sense of inner strength that emerges during a challenging time, a feeling of intuition guiding you, or moments of unexpected good fortune. You might attribute this to "the universe," "higher power," "good luck," or simply the inherent resilience of life. The terminology is less important than the recognition of this supportive flow.
  • Express Gratitude: Make a conscious effort to express gratitude for this support. This could be through verbal thank-yous, writing notes, or simply taking a moment to reflect and feel thankful.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Gratitude is a universally recognized virtue. This practice encourages an open-minded appreciation for the various forms of help and encouragement that enhance our lives. It fosters a sense of connection and acknowledges that positive outcomes often result from a combination of our efforts and external factors, or a sense of benevolent influence. It encourages humility and recognizes that we are part of a larger web of interconnectedness.

### Option 4: Engaging with "The Inner Dialogue of Values"

• How it relates: The text describes the "left part of the heart" (evil inclination) craving worldly pleasures and the "divine soul in the brain" (good inclination) contemplating God's greatness. This sets up a dialogue between immediate desires and higher aspirations.
• How to practice: You can engage in "The Inner Dialogue of Values" by consciously exploring the motivations behind your desires and actions.
  • Question Your Desires: When you feel a strong urge or desire, pause and ask yourself:
    • "What is the underlying need or value that this desire is trying to fulfill?" (e.g., a desire for comfort might stem from a need for security; a desire for recognition might stem from a need for validation.)
    • "Is this desire aligned with my deeper, more enduring values?"
  • Connect Actions to Values: Similarly, when you take an action, reflect on which of your values it reflects. Did your action stem from a desire for connection, contribution, integrity, or something else?
  • Listen to the "Higher Aspiration": Encourage the "higher aspiration" by actively seeking out information, experiences, or conversations that connect you to your deeper values and a sense of purpose beyond immediate gratification. This could involve reading philosophy, engaging in meaningful discussions, or pursuing creative endeavors.
• Cultural Sensitivity: This practice is about self-discovery and aligning one's life with one's personal values, a process that is fundamental to human flourishing across all cultures. It encourages introspection and a thoughtful approach to life choices, which are universally admired qualities. It respects the individual's journey of defining their own values and living in accordance with them.

Conversation Starter

When you feel ready to engage with a Jewish friend about this text, remember that genuine curiosity and respect are the most important tools. Approaching them with humility and a desire to learn will be greatly appreciated.

### Question 1: Exploring the "Intermediate" State

• What to ask: "I was reading this text that talks about an 'intermediate' person, someone who's not perfectly good or bad, but in a constant state of internal struggle. It made me think about how complex our inner lives can be. In your experience, how do Jewish teachings or traditions offer guidance or understanding for navigating those 'in-between' moments, when we're wrestling with different impulses or desires?"
• Why it's a good question:
  • It acknowledges the universality of internal struggle.
  • It uses accessible language ("in-between moments," "wrestling with different impulses").
  • It invites your friend to share their personal connection to their tradition without making assumptions about their level of observance or knowledge.
  • It opens the door to discussing concepts like self-reflection, ethical decision-making, or the role of community and practice in spiritual growth from a Jewish perspective. It's not asking "what do you believe?" but "how does your tradition speak to this human experience?"

### Question 2: Understanding the Role of Effort and Support

• What to ask: "This passage also mentioned how important personal effort is in overcoming challenges, but it also pointed to a kind of 'divine help' or support. It's like a partnership. I'm curious, from your perspective, how is that balance of personal effort and trust in a higher power understood or practiced within Judaism? How do you see those two aspects working together in life?"
• Why it's a good question:
  • It highlights a theme of collaboration – between the individual and a higher power – which resonates across many human experiences.
  • It uses the term "partnership" to frame the relationship, which feels more dynamic and less passive.
  • It invites them to share their understanding of agency and faith, or how these concepts are integrated in their practice or belief system.
  • It moves beyond abstract theology and asks about the practical, lived experience of this balance. This could lead to discussions about prayer, mitzvot (commandments), community support, or the concept of divine providence.

Remember to listen attentively to their responses, ask clarifying questions respectfully, and share your own reflections if appropriate, always emphasizing your learning journey.

Takeaway

This passage from the Tanya offers a profound and encouraging perspective: the journey of spiritual and moral growth is not about achieving a perfect, static state, but about the ongoing, conscious effort to navigate our internal complexities. It reminds us that this struggle is a shared human experience, made richer by self-awareness, persistent effort, and a humble trust in a supportive, guiding presence, however we understand it. The "intermediate" person, the benoni, is not defined by their flaws but by their continuous engagement with their inner world, striving to align their actions with their highest aspirations.