Welcome to today's Daily Tanya highlight. In today's episode, we explore the concept of the "benoni," or the intermediate person, as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental work of Chabad Chassidus by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi.
The benoni is someone who may not have achieved the spiritual level of a tzaddik, a righteous person, but is also not a rasha, a wicked person. The benoni is unique in that they experience an inner struggle. They are constantly battling with their evil inclination, yet they do not let it rule over them. This is a highly relatable aspect of our daily lives.
Every moment presents us with a choice, a chance to overcome our lesser urges and aspire to holiness. The benoni teaches us that it's not the absence of struggle that defines our spiritual success, but rather how we handle that struggle. When we face challenges, we can choose to align our actions with our values and the teachings of the Torah, even if our inner desires pull us in a different direction.
The Tanya reminds us that this is not a battle we face alone. We are empowered with divine assistance to overcome these challenges. Our sincere efforts in this constant struggle elevate not only ourselves but also the world around us.
Let us take inspiration from the benoni. Let us recognize the struggle within as an opportunity for growth and connection with the Divine. And remember, it's the effort in the struggle that truly counts.
Thank you for joining today's Daily Tanya highlight. This podcast was produced and sponsored by Daniel Aharonoff.