Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 13:1

Welcome

This passage from the Tanya, a foundational text in Chabad philosophy, offers a profound insight into the internal struggles and aspirations that are deeply meaningful within Jewish thought. For those curious about Jewish spirituality, it provides a window into a sophisticated understanding of the human psyche and the ongoing journey of self-discovery. It speaks to the universal human experience of navigating inner conflicts and striving for a higher purpose, resonating with anyone who has ever wrestled with their own motivations and desires.

Context

• Who/When/Where: The Tanya was written by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812), a prominent Hasidic rabbi and the founder of the Chabad movement. He lived in what is now Belarus and Ukraine. The Tanya, or Likkutei Amarim (Collected Teachings), is considered the seminal work of Chabad philosophy, composed during a period of intense intellectual and spiritual flourishing within Eastern European Jewish life. It aims to make complex mystical concepts accessible to the average person, guiding them in their spiritual development.

• Key Concept: The Benoni: This text introduces the concept of the benoni (pronounced ben-OH-nee). The word itself means "intermediate" or "average" in Hebrew. In the context of the Tanya, a benoni is neither fully righteous (tzaddik) nor fully wicked (rasha). It describes an individual who experiences the internal battle between their good and evil inclinations but manages to keep the evil inclination from gaining complete control. This is a crucial concept because it suggests that most people fall into this category, and it provides a framework for understanding how to navigate this ongoing internal struggle. It’s not about being perfect, but about the constant effort to align oneself with goodness.

• The "Two Impulses": The text alludes to the rabbinic understanding of two primary impulses within a person: the yetzer tov (good inclination) and the yetzer hara (evil inclination). These are not always seen as purely external forces, but as internal drives and desires. The yetzer tov is associated with the divine soul and a desire for spiritual pursuits, while the yetzer hara is linked to the animal soul and worldly pleasures. The Tanya describes a dynamic interplay between these two forces, where one can gain temporary ascendancy over the other. The text uses the analogy of judges to illustrate how these impulses present their arguments within the individual's consciousness, with a higher authority ultimately arbitrating.

Text Snapshot

This passage delves into the concept of the benoni, or the "intermediate person." It explains that this individual experiences a constant internal debate between their good and evil inclinations, akin to two judges presenting their arguments. While the evil inclination expresses its desires, the divine soul, empowered by a higher source, challenges it. The outcome isn't a permanent victory for either side, but a dynamic balance. The benoni is characterized by the fact that their evil inclination, though powerful and present, is not allowed to fully manifest in their actions. They are encouraged to view themselves as if they are still battling their inner struggles, even when outwardly appearing righteous, because the potential for the evil inclination to reawaken remains.

Values Lens

The Value of Self-Awareness and Honest Self-Assessment

This text places immense value on honest self-assessment, going beyond superficial appearances to understand one's internal landscape. The concept of the benoni is not a judgment but an invitation to a profound level of introspection. The instruction to consider oneself "as if you were wicked" is not an endorsement of negativity, but a powerful tool for fostering humility and vigilance. It encourages individuals to recognize the latent potential for negative inclinations within them, even when they are performing good deeds. This isn't about self-deprecation; rather, it's a sophisticated understanding that true spiritual progress comes from acknowledging the full spectrum of one's inner experience, including the parts that are less comfortable or desirable.

This emphasis on self-awareness stems from a deep understanding of human psychology. The text suggests that pride or complacency can be a significant obstacle to growth. If one believes they have eradicated their negative impulses entirely, they might let down their guard, making them vulnerable to those very impulses when they resurface. By maintaining an awareness of their ongoing internal struggle, individuals are better equipped to navigate challenges and make conscious choices that align with their values. This constant self-examination is not a path to despair, but a pathway to greater authenticity and a more robust spiritual life. It's about understanding that the journey is ongoing, and that moments of struggle are not failures, but opportunities for growth and deeper self-understanding. This perspective encourages a lifelong practice of self-reflection, recognizing that even at the highest levels of spiritual attainment, there is always room for deeper awareness and continued effort. It reframes internal conflict not as a sign of weakness, but as an inherent part of the human condition and a catalyst for genuine spiritual development. The text implies that true righteousness is not the absence of struggle, but the persistent effort to engage with it wisely and with integrity.

The Value of Divine Assistance and the Power of Effort

Another core value highlighted is the acknowledgment of divine assistance in the human struggle for goodness, coupled with the profound importance of personal effort. The text explicitly states, "If the Holy One, blessed is He, did not help him, he could not overcome his evil inclination." This is not a passive reliance on external forces, but a profound recognition that the capacity for good is divinely endowed and supported. The "glow radiated by the Divine light" that illuminates the divine soul is presented as the enabling force, empowering the individual to gain the "upper hand and mastery over the folly of the fool and evil nature." This perspective offers immense comfort and encouragement, suggesting that one is not alone in their internal battles. There is a supportive presence that aids in the pursuit of virtue.

However, this divine assistance is not a substitute for active participation. The text emphasizes that this help is received through the illumination of the divine soul, which then needs to exert its influence. The analogy of the "two judges" and the "arbitrator" implies a process where different internal voices are heard, and then a resolution is reached through contemplation and choice. The individual's intellect and will are crucial in engaging with this divine aid. The text describes how the divine soul in the intellect "rules over the 'small city,' i.e., all the parts of the body," making them "a garment and vehicle for her three garments." This imagery underscores the active role of the individual in directing their physical and mental faculties toward spiritual goals.

The value here lies in the synergy between personal agency and divine grace. It's a message of empowerment, suggesting that while the challenges are real and the inclinations powerful, there is an inherent capacity for good within each person, further strengthened by a benevolent presence. This encourages a proactive approach to life, where individuals are encouraged to strive, to learn, to pray, and to engage in ethical actions, knowing that their efforts are not in vain and are, in fact, divinely supported. The text suggests that this partnership is essential for overcoming internal obstacles and for realizing one's highest potential. It’s a profound affirmation that the human endeavor towards goodness is a collaborative one, where sincere effort opens the channels for divine support, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and spiritual upliftment. This dual emphasis fosters a balanced perspective, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their actions while simultaneously drawing strength and hope from a higher source.

The Value of Persistent Aspiration and the Pursuit of Truth

The text champions the value of persistent aspiration and the unwavering pursuit of truth, even when the outward signs of progress are not immediately apparent. It acknowledges that even someone deeply devoted to studying Torah "day and night for its own sake" might still be in the benoni category. This is because the benoni's struggle is often internal and subtle. The evil inclination might not be "dissolved" but rather dormant, or its influence contained. The text uses the striking metaphor of the evil inclination being like a "sleeping man, who can awaken from his sleep." This highlights the ongoing nature of the struggle and the importance of continuous vigilance.

The concept of "truth" in this context is deeply intertwined with authenticity and steadfastness. The quote, "The lip of truth shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment," underscores the enduring power of genuine commitment. For the benoni, even the temporary moments of intense love for God experienced during prayer are considered a form of "truth" because the divine soul has the capacity to reawaken this love. This is a crucial distinction: while the tzaddik's love might be constant and unwavering, the benoni's love, though perhaps more fleeting, is still a genuine manifestation of their divine connection and a testament to their ongoing effort.

This value encourages a long-term perspective on spiritual development. It's not about achieving a perfect state overnight, but about consistently striving, learning, and practicing. It validates the experience of those who feel they are still in the midst of their journey, reminding them that their efforts, even if they don't feel complete, are meaningful and contribute to their spiritual standing. The text suggests that the attribute of truth, like Jacob who is called "the middle bolt which secures [everything] from end to end," is a unifying and foundational quality. It implies that by clinging to truth and continuous aspiration, individuals can find stability and purpose, connecting the highest ideals with practical daily life. This encourages perseverance, reminding us that true growth is often a gradual process, built on consistent effort and an enduring commitment to one's highest aspirations, even in the face of internal challenges. It's a call to embrace the journey, to find meaning in the striving, and to trust in the enduring power of truth.

Everyday Bridge

Practicing Mindful Internal Dialogue

One way to bridge the insights of this text to everyday life for someone who isn't Jewish is to explore the practice of mindful internal dialogue. The Tanya describes a dynamic interplay of internal voices – the good inclination and the evil inclination, akin to judges presenting their cases. We can relate to this by observing our own inner conversations.

Imagine you're faced with a decision, big or small. You might notice different thoughts and feelings arising. One part of you might lean towards immediate gratification or an easier path, driven by impulses or desires. Another part might consider the long-term consequences, ethical implications, or a more virtuous choice. This isn't about being "good" or "bad," but about recognizing these different impulses within yourself.

You can practice this by simply becoming more aware of these internal dialogues. When you notice yourself feeling conflicted, pause for a moment. Ask yourself: "What are the different voices speaking within me right now? What are the motivations behind each thought or feeling?" You don't need to label them as "good" or "evil." Instead, acknowledge them with curiosity.

For instance, if you're considering procrastinating on a task, you might hear a voice saying, "Just relax for a bit, you deserve it. You can do it later." Simultaneously, another voice might chime in, "But you'll feel much better if you get this done now, and it will prevent stress later." The Tanya suggests that the divine soul, aided by a higher power, can influence the outcome. In our everyday lives, this translates to consciously choosing which inner voice we want to amplify and act upon.

You can then intentionally choose to lean into the voice that aligns with your values or long-term goals. This might involve a conscious mental affirmation, like "I choose to focus on this task now because it's important to me," or "I will prioritize my well-being by taking a short break and then returning to my work." This isn't about suppressing one voice, but about understanding the options and making an informed decision, much like the "arbitrator" in the text.

This practice cultivates self-awareness and strengthens your ability to make choices that are more aligned with your intentions. It transforms internal conflict from a source of frustration into an opportunity for conscious decision-making and personal growth. It’s about recognizing that we have the capacity to engage with our inner world, to understand its complexities, and to guide our actions with intention, drawing on our own inner wisdom and our commitment to what we believe is right.

Conversation Starter

If you have a Jewish friend who might be open to discussing this, here are a couple of kindly phrased questions you could consider:

1. "I was reading this passage from a Jewish text called the Tanya, which talks about an 'intermediate person' who struggles with their inner good and bad inclinations. It made me wonder, how do Jewish teachings generally approach the idea of internal conflict? Is it seen as something inevitable, or something to overcome entirely?"

2. "The text suggested that even when someone is doing good deeds, they should view themselves as if they are still battling their inner struggles, to stay humble and vigilant. This really resonated with me. From your perspective, what's the value in maintaining that sense of ongoing effort, even when things seem to be going well spiritually or ethically?"

Takeaway

This passage from the Tanya offers a profound and relatable framework for understanding the human experience of internal struggle. It teaches that the journey of spiritual growth is often characterized by an ongoing negotiation between our different impulses, rather than a simple victory of good over evil. By valuing honest self-assessment, recognizing the synergy between personal effort and divine support, and maintaining a persistent aspiration for truth, individuals can navigate their inner lives with greater wisdom and resilience, finding meaning and purpose in the continuous process of becoming.