Subscribe
Share
Share
Embed
Welcome to TanyaToday, where we offer daily doses of divine wisdom straight from the heart of Chassidic philosophy. Our episodes delve into the timeless teachings of the Tanya, shedding light on how these ancient insights are astonishingly relevant to modern living. Whether you're wrestling with life's big questions or simply seeking a moment of spiritual serenity, TanyaToday aims to enrich your day with meaningful, bite-sized lessons. Subscribe now to embark on a journey that bridges the heavenly and the everyday.
Welcome, dear listeners, to our daily dive into the wisdom of the Tanya, that foundational work of Chassidic philosophy by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi. Today we explore a passage that speaks to the heart of our everyday struggles and triumphs.
Consider the battle between the animal soul and the G-dly soul, a theme that is central to Tanya's teachings. The animal soul is not evil; it is simply concerned with earthly, physical matters. It is the part of us that seeks comfort, pleasure, and survival. The G-dly soul, on the other hand, yearns for spiritual connection and divine purpose.
In our day-to-day life, we often find ourselves caught in this tension. When we wake up in the morning, which voice do we listen to? Do we hit the snooze button, catering to the desires of the animal soul for more rest, or do we rise with purpose to serve a higher calling?
The lesson here is not to denigrate the physical. Rather, it is to harmonize the physical with the spiritual. When we eat, we can elevate the act by consuming food with the intention of gaining strength to perform mitzvot, good deeds. When we speak, we can choose words that inspire and uplift rather than words that are idle or harmful.
It is this everyday choice, this constant struggle, that defines our spiritual journey. The Tanya teaches us that victory is not in the cessation of conflict but in the persistent effort to align our actions with our divine purpose. Every small victory is a triumph, a step towards harmony between the G-dly soul and the animal soul, between heaven and earth.
Embrace the challenge today. Look for opportunities to elevate the mundane and remember that each choice has the potential to be a sacred act.
Thank you for joining me today. May your daily battles be fought with courage and your victories bring you closer to your higher self.
This podcast was produced and sponsored by Daniel Aharonoff.