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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.
Welcome, dear listeners, to today's journey into the Tanya, the foundational work of Chabad Chassidus by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, where we unearth the timeless wisdom contained within its pages to guide us in our daily lives.
In today's episode, we delve into the concept of "Benoni," the intermediate person, as discussed in the Tanya. The Benoni is someone who may not be free from the struggle against his or her impulses but has the power to control them. While the Tzaddik, the righteous one, has vanquished his evil inclination, the Benoni is engaged in a constant battle, yet never falls.
This idea is incredibly relatable because most of us find ourselves in the shoes of the Benoni. We are not saints, but we strive to act righteously. The Tanya teaches us that the true measure of our spiritual standing is not the absence of struggle, but the presence of our effort and our ability to choose the good when faced with challenges.
The lesson here is empowering. It reminds us that even if we have not reached perfection, our daily efforts to overcome our baser instincts and align our actions with our values are deeply meaningful. We need not be disheartened by the struggle; rather, we should embrace it as the arena in which we grow and define our moral character.
As we go about our day, let us remember the lesson of the Benoni. Let us celebrate our victories, small as they may be, and keep striving, knowing that every choice made for the good elevates not only ourselves but the world around us.
This podcast was produced and sponsored by Daniel Aharonoff.