Beinoni: The Concept of the Average Person in Tanya
In the profound teachings of Tanya, authored by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, there exists a remarkable exploration of the human condition through the lens of the Beinoni. This term, translating to “average person,” encapsulates a complex yet relatable spiritual archetype that resonates deeply with our everyday struggles and aspirations. As I delve into this concept, I find myself reflecting on my personal journey and how the wisdom contained within Tanya has illuminated my path.
The Beinoni is not merely an average individual; rather, he or she embodies a unique balance between good and evil inclinations. Unlike the righteous (Tzaddik), who have completely subdued their negative impulses, or the wicked (Rasha), who succumb to them entirely, the Beinoni stands as a testament to resilience. This character is characterized by an ongoing internal battle—a struggle that is both daunting and inspiring. It’s easy to feel disheartened when confronted with our flaws, but recognizing ourselves as Beinonim can be liberating.
Reflecting on my own life, I often grapple with moments where my desires clash with my higher aspirations. There are days when I am filled with inspiration—when prayer flows effortlessly and acts of kindness come naturally. Yet there are also moments when negativity creeps in, tempting me to abandon these ideals for fleeting pleasures. It’s precisely during these times that the teachings of Tanya resonate most profoundly within me.
Rabbi Schneur Zalman teaches that every person possesses two souls: one rooted in holiness and another steeped in animalistic tendencies. The interplay between these two forces creates a dynamic tension within each individual. For many years, I struggled to reconcile these conflicting aspects of myself; it felt like an insurmountable challenge. However, learning about the Beinoni offered me solace and clarity.
The beauty of being a Beinoni lies not in achieving perfection but rather in striving for growth amidst imperfection. The essence of this archetype is captured beautifully in Chapter 12 of Tanya, where Rabbi Schneur Zalman describes how even though a Beinoni may experience sinful thoughts or feelings, he does not act upon them. Instead, he harnesses his willpower and directs his actions toward goodness.
This realization was transformative for me—it shifted my perspective from one focused on failure to one centered on effort and intention. Each day became an opportunity for self-improvement rather than a test of worthiness based solely on outcomes. Embracing this mindset allowed me to celebrate small victories: choosing kindness over anger during a frustrating encounter or taking time for meditation instead of succumbing to distractions.
Moreover, understanding that every person has their own unique challenges fosters empathy towards others navigating similar paths. When we recognize that everyone embodies their version of a Beinoni, we cultivate compassion rather than judgment—creating deeper connections within our communities.
The journey towards becoming a true Beinoni is not devoid of difficulties; it requires vigilance and commitment to self-discipline while remaining gentle with oneself amidst setbacks. In this light, I’ve learned that spirituality isn’t about eradicating negative impulses but managing them effectively while nurturing positive ones.
As I continue on this path inspired by the teachings found in Tanya, I strive daily to embody the spirit of the average person—the resilient warrior who battles inner turmoil yet remains steadfastly committed to growth and goodness. Each moment presents us with choices; each choice defines us further along our spiritual journeys.
In embracing our roles as Beinonim, we unlock profound potential—not only within ourselves but also collectively as partakers in humanity’s shared narrative toward higher consciousness and connection with divinity. This realization propels us forward into lives enriched by purpose—where every struggle becomes an opportunity for elevation and transformation.
