Tanya, Part I; Likkutei Amarim 13:6

This text is a profound exploration of the human condition, deeply resonant for Jewish people because it delves into the internal struggles and aspirations that are central to their spiritual journey. It offers a framework for understanding the ongoing effort to live a meaningful life, acknowledging both the challenges and the potential for growth within everyone.

Context

Who, When, and Where

This passage comes from Part I of the Tanya, a foundational work of Chabad philosophy, written by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi in the late 18th century. Rabbi Shneur Zalman was a prominent Hasidic leader who lived in what is now Belarus. The Tanya is not a historical narrative but a spiritual guide intended to help individuals connect with their faith and understand their inner lives.

Key Term: Benoni

• Benoni: This Hebrew term, literally meaning "intermediate" or "in-between," refers to a person who is neither entirely righteous nor entirely wicked. This text focuses on the benoni as the standard, everyday spiritual state for most people, characterized by an ongoing internal balance and struggle.

The "Small City" Metaphor

The text uses the metaphor of a "small city" to represent a person's body and its various faculties (mind, heart, limbs). The "judges of his soul" are the two opposing impulses within this city: the "evil nature" and the "divine soul." The struggle for control within this "city" is the core of the human spiritual experience described here.

Text Snapshot

This passage describes the internal battle within a person, often referred to as the benoni or "intermediate person." It explains that this internal struggle involves two main forces: the "evil nature" and the "divine soul." These forces are like two judges in a courtroom, each presenting their case. The "evil nature" is located in the "left part of the heart," driven by worldly desires, while the "divine soul" resides in the "brain," representing intellect and a connection to the spiritual. When these two forces clash, the ultimate decision rests with a higher arbitration, ultimately aided by a divine presence that helps the good nature prevail. Even when the "evil nature" has no power to act through the body's limbs, it still exists in its full strength within, making it crucial to remain vigilant and not become complacent, as even those deeply devoted to spiritual study can still be considered benoni if their inner impulses remain powerful, even if dormant.

Values Lens

The Value of Continuous Self-Awareness and Humility

This text profoundly emphasizes the value of continuous self-awareness and humility. It presents a nuanced view of spiritual progress, suggesting that true spiritual maturity isn't about eradicating the "evil nature" entirely, but about understanding its persistent presence and maintaining a vigilant, humble stance. The concept of the benoni is central here: it’s not about achieving a state of perfect righteousness where all negative impulses are gone, but about navigating the ongoing internal dialogue.

The text advises against complacency, even for those who are deeply devoted to spiritual pursuits like Torah study. It posits that the "evil nature" can remain in its full strength, even if it's not actively manifesting through actions. This is a powerful call to introspection. Instead of feeling victorious over past struggles, one is encouraged to acknowledge that the potential for negative inclinations still exists. This fosters a deep sense of humility. It means never assuming one has "arrived" or that the battle is won. This ongoing self-assessment prevents arrogance and encourages a sustained effort to align one's actions and thoughts with higher values. It's the recognition that even when external behavior is exemplary, the internal landscape requires constant tending. This internal vigilance is not about self-punishment, but about a realistic and grounded approach to spiritual growth, understanding that the journey is a lifelong process of refinement and awareness. The instruction to regard oneself "as if you were wicked" is not a declaration of sinfulness, but an admonishment to remain ever-watchful and to never let the ego believe it has conquered all internal challenges. This fosters a profound sense of humility, recognizing the constant need for divine assistance and personal effort.

The Value of Internal Balance and Divine Partnership

Another core value illuminated by this text is the value of maintaining internal balance and recognizing a partnership with the divine. The benoni is depicted as an individual constantly engaged in a delicate balancing act. The text uses the metaphor of two judges, the "evil nature" and the "divine soul," who present their arguments within the "small city" of the self. The outcome of this internal deliberation is not solely determined by human effort, but crucially involves divine intervention.

The passage states, "If the Holy One, blessed is He, did not help him, he could not overcome his evil inclination." This highlights a fundamental belief: that while human agency and effort are vital, true spiritual victory is a collaborative endeavor. The "help" comes as a "glow radiated by the Divine light," illuminating the "divine soul" to gain mastery. This signifies that spiritual strength and clarity are not solely generated from within but are also bestowed and supported from a higher source. This concept fosters a sense of reliance and trust in the divine, while simultaneously underscoring the importance of actively engaging with one's inner spiritual faculties. The balance lies in understanding that one must actively strive, make choices, and cultivate their "divine soul," while also acknowledging that the ultimate capacity to overcome challenges and ascend spiritually is facilitated by this divine partnership. It's a recognition that the human capacity for good is amplified and supported by a benevolent universe, making the pursuit of a balanced, ethical life a shared journey. This partnership encourages a sense of hope and resilience, knowing that one is not alone in the struggle for self-improvement, and that even in moments of perceived weakness, there is an ever-present source of support to help navigate the complexities of inner life.

Everyday Bridge

Cultivating a "Balanced Inner Dialogue"

A non-Jewish person can relate to and practice the spirit of this text by consciously cultivating a balanced inner dialogue in their own lives. Think of your own internal thoughts and impulses. We all have moments where we might feel a pull towards something we know isn't the best for us, and then another part of us that recognizes this and urges caution or a better choice.

This text encourages us to acknowledge both of these internal voices without immediately labeling ourselves as "good" or "bad." Instead, it suggests observing this internal debate. When you notice a desire that conflicts with your values, you can pause and acknowledge it, much like the "evil nature" offering its opinion. Then, you can consciously bring to mind your values, your goals, or a higher principle that guides you—this is akin to invoking the "divine soul." This isn't about suppressing the initial impulse, but about giving the considered, value-aligned thought a fair hearing and the space to influence your decision. It’s about recognizing that this internal back-and-forth is a normal part of being human. By simply becoming more aware of this dialogue, and by consciously choosing to give weight to your better judgment and values, you are practicing the essence of maintaining internal balance. You can then offer yourself a moment of quiet reflection, or even a brief prayer or affirmation, much like the text suggests divine help comes by way of illumination. This practice helps foster self-awareness and a more intentional approach to decision-making in everyday life, bridging the gap between internal desires and considered action.

Conversation Starter

Here are two kind questions you could ask a Jewish friend to explore these ideas further:

1. "I was reading about this idea of an 'intermediate person' (benoni) who is always navigating between different inner impulses. Does that concept resonate with you, and how do you think about that internal balance in your own life?"
2. "This text talks about how even when we're trying to do good, there's always an awareness of other inclinations, and how important humility is in spiritual growth. How do you approach the idea of continuous self-improvement and staying grounded in your spiritual practice?"

Takeaway

This passage from the Tanya offers a profound insight into the human experience: the ongoing, dynamic process of navigating our inner lives. It teaches that spiritual growth is not about achieving a static state of perfection, but about cultivating awareness, humility, and a balanced inner dialogue, recognizing that we are all on a continuous journey, often with a quiet partnership with something greater than ourselves.