Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 13:11

Welcome

This passage from the Tanya, a foundational text in Jewish mystical thought, offers a profound exploration of the inner human experience. For many Jews, it provides a framework for understanding the ongoing, often complex, journey of living a meaningful life, emphasizing the internal struggles and triumphs we all encounter. It speaks to the universal human condition of striving for something greater, even amidst daily challenges.

Context

• Who and When: The Tanya was written by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi (1745–1812), a leading figure in the Chabad Hasidic movement. It was composed during a time of significant intellectual and spiritual ferment in Eastern European Jewish life.
• Where: The text was written and disseminated primarily in the Jewish communities of the Russian Empire, particularly in what is now Belarus and Ukraine.
• Key Term: Benoni: In this context, benoni (pronounced beh-non-EE) refers to a person who is neither entirely righteous (tzaddik) nor entirely wicked (rasha). It describes an "intermediate" individual who is actively engaged in the internal struggle between their good and evil inclinations.

Text Snapshot

This passage delves into the internal landscape of a benoni, an "intermediate" person. It explains that such an individual is constantly navigating a tug-of-war between two inner "judges" or impulses: a good, divine soul and an "evil" or animal soul. While the divine soul, housed in the intellect, can gain temporary dominion, the "evil" inclination remains a powerful, innate force. This internal dynamic means that even when outwardly performing good deeds, the benoni must remain vigilant, recognizing the ongoing presence of the opposing impulse and striving for a deeper, more consistent connection to higher ideals.

Values Lens

The Value of Self-Awareness and Honest Self-Assessment

This text powerfully elevates the value of profound self-awareness, urging individuals to engage in a rigorous and honest assessment of their inner lives. It suggests that true spiritual growth isn't about pretending to be perfect or ignoring our internal struggles, but rather about acknowledging the full spectrum of our motivations and desires. The concept of the benoni is particularly insightful here. It implies that the majority of people exist in a state of ongoing internal negotiation, where both positive and negative impulses are active. The wisdom lies not in eradicating the "evil" inclination entirely – a feat reserved for rare spiritual giants – but in understanding its persistent presence. The text encourages a mindset where one doesn't merely accept external accolades for good deeds but rather scrutinizes the internal landscape to ensure that actions stem from a genuine, uncorrupted source. This requires a deep dive into one's own heart and mind, questioning the "why" behind our choices and actions. It's a call to introspection that goes beyond surface-level observations, probing the very essence of our motivations. This persistent self-examination fosters humility, preventing spiritual arrogance and encouraging continuous self-improvement. It's the recognition that the battle for one's inner self is ongoing, and that complacency is a spiritual hazard.

The Value of Perseverance in the Face of Internal Conflict

Another paramount value championed by this text is perseverance, particularly in the context of navigating internal conflict. The benoni is characterized not by the absence of struggle, but by the continuous effort to maintain a connection to their higher aspirations despite the persistent pull of less noble desires. The text illustrates this with the metaphor of the "two judges" or impulses. Even when the divine soul is ascendant, influencing thoughts, speech, and actions towards good, the "evil" inclination remains, like a magistrate offering a dissenting opinion. This internal debate is not a sign of failure but a testament to the ongoing effort. The crucial point is that the divine soul, aided by a higher source, has the capacity to "challenge" the negative impulses. This doesn't mean the negative impulses disappear; rather, their power to dictate action is curtailed. The value of perseverance is highlighted in the understanding that this is not a one-time victory but a continuous process. The "dormant" evil inclination can reawaken, much like a sleeping person can stir. Therefore, the individual must consistently engage in practices that strengthen the divine soul, such as prayer and contemplation, to reassert its dominance. This constant recommitment, even after moments of spiritual fervor have passed, is the essence of perseverance. It emphasizes that spiritual progress is often a gradual and arduous journey, marked by repeated efforts to align one's inner self with one's highest values, even when the internal landscape feels challenging.

The Value of Divine Assistance and the Power of Connection

This passage also underscores the profound value of recognizing and actively seeking divine assistance in our personal journeys. 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 an active acknowledgment of a partnership. The "help" described comes in the form of a "glow radiated by the Divine light," which illuminates the divine soul, empowering it to gain mastery. This suggests that while internal effort is crucial, it is amplified and made possible by a connection to something greater than oneself. This connection is not abstract; it’s portrayed as a vital force that enables us to overcome our most deeply ingrained negative tendencies. The text implies that this divine assistance is not a reward for perfect behavior but an inherent aspect of existence, available to those who strive for it. It encourages a humble recognition of our limitations and a trust in a benevolent force that aids in our inner battles. The emphasis on the "divine soul" in the brain, extending into the heart, and its connection to this illuminating light, speaks to a holistic view of human potential, where intellect and emotion are empowered by a spiritual source. This value encourages a sense of hope and resilience, knowing that the struggle is not undertaken alone, and that by fostering our inner connection, we tap into a source of strength that can help us overcome seemingly insurmountable internal obstacles.

Everyday Bridge

In our own lives, we can connect with the spirit of this text by practicing mindful self-reflection about our motivations. Consider a moment when you’ve made a choice, perhaps something small like deciding what to eat or how to spend your free time. Instead of just acting, take a brief pause to ask yourself: "Why am I choosing this? Is it driven by a genuine desire for well-being, growth, or connection, or by a more fleeting impulse like immediate gratification or a desire to avoid discomfort?" This isn't about judgment, but about gentle observation. When you notice yourself leaning towards something less beneficial, acknowledge it without shame, and then gently try to steer yourself back towards a more constructive choice. This internal dialogue, this consistent effort to understand and guide our actions, mirrors the benoni's diligent internal navigation. It’s about recognizing the internal "judges" at play and actively choosing which voice to amplify, even in the small decisions of our day.

Conversation Starter

If you have a Jewish friend who might be open to sharing, you could kindly ask:

• "I've been reading about the idea of an 'intermediate person' in some Jewish texts, someone who is always navigating between different inner impulses. Does that concept resonate with your own understanding of life's journey?"
• "The text talks about how we're not alone in our inner struggles and that there's a kind of divine help that can empower us. How do you experience or connect with that sense of support in your own life?"

Takeaway

This passage from the Tanya offers a powerful and relatable framework for understanding the human condition. It highlights that the journey of personal growth is often an internal negotiation, emphasizing the ongoing effort to align our actions with our deepest values, even when faced with internal challenges. It teaches us the value of honest self-awareness, perseverance, and the empowering realization that we are not alone in our striving.