Lessons in Tanya

This chapter explains how the practice of valuing one's divine inner essence over their physical self leads directly to fulfilling the command to love others. It reveals that all people are truly con…

This chapter tackles the challenge of feeling down after examining one's spiritual shortcomings. It explains how a deep, active sense of remorse, unlike a numbing sadness, can actually be a powerful …

This chapter explores a profound method for overcoming spiritual insensitivity: cultivating true lowliness of spirit. It delves into the challenging instruction to genuinely consider oneself inferior…

This chapter addresses a significant challenge for individuals striving for spiritual growth: a persistent dullness or insensitivity of the heart. This condition can make it difficult to experience e…

This chapter provides guidance on managing intrusive thoughts that arise during moments of spiritual devotion, such as prayer or study. Unlike thoughts encountered during daily activities, these dist…

This chapter shifts focus to a specific type of sadness: that arising from the presence of unwanted thoughts and desires in one's mind, particularly when engaged in daily, mundane activities. The Alt…

This chapter explores how to overcome significant barriers to serving the Divine with love and deep respect. While previous discussions highlighted the inherent ease of such service, this section foc…

This chapter concludes a profound discussion on how effortless it can truly be to serve the Creator with love and deep respect. It reveals that these feelings are not something we need to cultivate f…

This chapter profoundly contrasts the effects of good deeds, which foster unity with the Divine, with the impact of forbidden acts. It explains that any transgression, great or small, represents a co…

This chapter delves into the unique nature of divine communication compared to human speech. While human words become separate from the speaker, G-d's creative 'speech' that brings the world into bei…

This chapter explores the profound differences between human and divine communication. We learn that while human words detach from their source, G-d's creative 'speech' — which brought the world into…

This chapter expands on how an inherent spiritual connection can inspire all aspects of religious observance, addressing why this profound, hidden love isn't only activated in moments of extreme chal…

This chapter explores the profound, innate love for the Divine that exists within every person, an unquestioning connection passed down through generations. It clarifies the nature of this inherent l…

This chapter significantly expands on the idea of spiritual connection, emphasizing that it is "very near" and accessible to everyone, even those lacking extensive knowledge or a capacity for deep me…

This chapter explores the profound concept that a connection with the Divine is accessible to everyone, even when one doesn't experience overt, intense emotional feelings of love or awe. It explains …

This chapter explores the profound concept of serving the Divine, especially for individuals who are on a path of spiritual growth but may not always experience intense, revealed emotions of connecti…

This chapter delves into the different levels of spiritual attainment, particularly clarifying what it means to be actively "serving the Divine." It explains the distinction between someone who has f…

This chapter explores a practical spiritual state attainable by every individual, distinct from inherent righteousness or complete wickedness. It clarifies that this state is defined not by one's int…

Explore the complex spiritual reality of the individual described as "intermediate," delving into how this level is characterized not by balancing good and bad actions, but by an unrelenting internal…