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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.
Shalom and welcome! Today we explore a passage from the Tanya, the fundamental work of Chabad Chassidut, written by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi. In the text, we uncover a profound yet simple truth that speaks to the heart of our daily experience.
In Likutei Amarim, Chapter 26, we are reminded of the struggle between our higher and lower selves, the divine soul and the animal soul. The Rabbi teaches us that each and every one of us has two souls, each vying for control over our thoughts, speech, and actions. This struggle is not a curse but a blessing, for it is within this very tension that we find the purpose of our existence.
The divine soul seeks to connect us with the eternal, to align our actions with values that transcend the material world. The animal soul, on the other hand, is concerned with physical survival and comfort, pulling us towards earthly desires. We might find ourselves torn between the two, but Rabbi Schneur Zalman gives us a path forward: by engaging in Torah study and fulfilling mitzvot, we can harness the energy of the animal soul and elevate it, transforming our base instincts into a force for good.
This is not a battle to be won overnight. It is the work of a lifetime, a journey of countless small choices that shape our character and destiny. Each time we choose kindness over indifference, honesty over deceit, or patience over frustration, we tip the scales in favor of our divine soul.
So as we go about our day, let us be mindful of this inner dialogue. Let us embrace the struggle, knowing that it is through our efforts that we bring light into the darkness, and sanctify the mundane. Every act of goodness is a victory in this most personal of battles, bringing us closer to our true purpose.
Remember, the journey is not about perfection, but progress. Keep striving, keep growing, and let the words of the Tanya guide you along the way.
This podcast was produced and sponsored by Daniel Aharonoff.