Tanya: The Kabbalah of You - with Rabbi Levi Dubov
By Rabbi Levi Dubov
Join Rabbi Levi Dubov for a powerful weekly class to explore the teachings of the Tanya. Taught at the Chabad Jewish Center of Bloomfield Hills.
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You - with Rabbi Levi DubovMay 10, 2024
Tanya Ch. 29 (1): How to Cure Spiritual Apathy
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #62
Chapter 29, pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 28: Am I a Spiritual Fraud?
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #61
Chapter 28
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 27 (2): The Power of Inner Suppression
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #60
Chapter 27, pt. 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 27 (1): Embracing your Perfectly Imperfect Self
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #59
Chapter 27, pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 26 (3): Navigating Guilt, Regret, and Remorse
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #58
Chapter 26, pt. 3
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 26 (2): Facing Pain, Suffering, and Stress
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #57
Chapter 26, pt. 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 26 (1): Joy is Serious Business
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #56
Chapter 26, pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 25 (2): Living with your Self-Sacrifice
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #55
Chapter 25, pt. 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 25 (1): Living your Authentic Truth
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #54
Chapter 25, pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 24 (3): All Mitzvos are Equal
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #53
Chapter 24, pt. 3
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 24 (2): The Delusional Spirit
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #52
Chapter 24, pt. 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 24 (1): Idolatry Today
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #51
Chapter 24, pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 23 (2): Finding the Oneness in Torah
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #50
Chapter 23, pt. 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 23 (1): Finding the Oneness in Mitzvos
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #49
Chapter 23, pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 22: Living in the Illusion of Separateness
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #48
Chapter 22
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Tanya Ch. 21: The Onlyness of G-d
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You
#47 - Chapter 21
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Tanya Ch. 20: The Oneness of G-d
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #46
Chapter 20
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Tanya Ch. 19 (2): When the Hidden Love Emerges
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #45
Chapter 19 pt. 2
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Tanya Ch. 19 (1): Defining the Hidden Love
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #44
Chapter 19 pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 18 (2): The Power of the Bond you have with G-d
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #43
Chapter 18 pt 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 18 (1): The Holy Soul you Inherited
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #42
Chapter 18 pt 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya - A Panoramic Journey | Part 2: Navigating the Battle of the Souls (Ch. 9-17)
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #41
A Panoramic Journey through Tanya
Part 2: Navigating the Battle of the Souls (Chapters 9-17)
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya - A Panoramic Journey | Part 1: Your Spiritual Anatomy (Ch. 1-8)
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #40
A Panoramic Journey through Tanya
Part 1: Your Spiritual Anatomy (Chapters 1-8)
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 17: To be a Beinoni is Practical - Practical Steps for Conscious Living
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #39
Chapter 17
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Tanya Ch. 16 (2): From the Heart - How Much Emotion does your Judaism Need?
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #38
Chapter 16 pt. 2
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 16 (1): From Knowledge to Action - Unleashing Emotional Motivation
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #37
Chapter 16 pt. 1
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 15: Are You Stagnant or Vibrant?
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #36
Chapter 15
In this powerful chapter, we learn of the attitude a beinoni must have in his spiritual journey: to continuously grow, and constantly go beyond their nature and habit.
A successful beinoni is not determined by how much he accomplishes but by the effort put into continuous growth.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 14 (2): Cultivating Emotional Alignment
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #35
Chapter 14 pt. 2
In a world where the perfection of a Tzadik is unattainable, we shift our focus to the attainable goal of becoming a Beinoni—a person of moral integrity.
While complete emotional alignment is out of reach, the Tanya teaches us the value of even a small effort toward cultivating this alignment, paving the way for a more spiritual and purposeful existence.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 14 (1): The First Step on the Beinoni Journey
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #34
Chapter 14 pt. 1
In this inspiring chapter, the Tanya transitions from understanding the "what" to embracing the "how" of becoming a beinoni.
Though initially overwhelming, the journey to being a beinoni is practical and attainable. By consciously making choices that go against our emotions, we can embody the essence of a beinoni's spiritual lifestyle.
The first step on your beinoni journey is to start today by focusing on one decision at a time rather than getting overwhelmed by long-term goals.
Finally, the Alter Rebbe gives a script of self-encouragement for the beinoni to make the right choices.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 13 (3): Is the Beinoni a Fraud?
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #33
Chapter 13 pt. 3
In this fascinating class, we dive into a burning question: Is a beinoni's relationship with God authentic if they must recreate it every day? Are they truly living a spiritual life or just pretending?
Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking journey exploring the essence of truth and the Jewish perspective on it. Discover how truth is defined as something eternal, consistent, independent, and unaffected by circumstances.
Delving deep into the Kabbalah of truth, the Alter Rebbe reassures the beinoni of the genuineness of their spiritual journey and their connection with God.
This illuminating episode will challenge your understanding of truth and provide insights into the profound nature of a Jew's relationship with the divine.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 13 (2): The Limits of even the Greatest Beinoni
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #32
Chapter 13 pt. 2
The beinoni's journey is defined by the ongoing inner battle between two opposing souls. Even at the pinnacle of the beinoni's possibility, the Animal Soul lurks beneath the surface. With this, the Alter Rebbe stresses the crucial need for the beinoni to remain ever-vigilant and aware of the Animal Soul's presence.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 13 (1): Know your Weakness
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #31
Chapter 13 pt. 1
Despite the successes of the beinoni in absolute self-mastery, the beinoni must be aware of his vulnerability: He still possesses an Animal Soul that has yet to be compromised and is only growing stronger. And if it weren't for G-d's help, his Godly Soul would not have the power to overrule the Animal Soul.
This honest awareness is crucial for the beinoni to remain vigilant and succeed spiritually.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 12 (4): The Self-Mastery of the Beinoni
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #30
Chapter 12 pt. 4
This class further explores the Beinoni's self-mastery despite constantly battling their Animal Soul, and How the Beinoni is fundamentally different from a Tzadik.
This class also discusses the importance of engaging in the world consciously, mindfully, and with intentionality, and the idea of sanctifying oneself, even with the permitted things in life.
This class concludes with the importance of self-mastery in interpersonal matters.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 12 (3): The Power Within You to Succeed
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #29
Chapter 12 pt. 3 Does achieving the self-mastery of the Beinoni feel impossible? In this episode, we explore the Tanya's teachings on two secret powers that you can capitalize on to heavily stack the deck in your favor: The power of the mind over the heart and the power of light over darkness. By learning about the incredible power of our G-dly soul, we can gain the knowledge and courage needed to harness these powers and master ourselves. Through this journey of self-discovery, we can improve our lives and become the best version of ourselves. You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 12 (2): Daily Soul Workout
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #28
Chapter 12 pt. 2
How does one become a Beinoni? How do we find the inner strength to live a life of strength, never lapsing to the weaknesses of the Animal Soul?
As we begin our journey to unlock the secrets of the Beinoni, the Tanya introduces us to the first essential skill that a Beinoni requires: a daily workout for the soul. Through the experience of prayer, we can draw the inspiration and strength we need to navigate the challenges of the day and triumph over them.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 12 (1): Introduction to the Beinoni
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #27
Chapter 12 pt. 1
After eleven chapters of setting the stage, the Tanya has paved the way for us to dive into the world of the Beinoni. This class will provide a general overview of the Beinoni's character.
Living in the space between a Tzadik and Rasha, the Beinoni is someone who recognizes their inner strengths and commits to living an inspired life of inner resolve and strength.
With this class we began a journey of self-discovery as we delve into the fascinating world of the Beinoni and uncover the ways in which we can tap into our own inner strength to lead more fulfilling and spiritual lives.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 11: The Rasha - A Soul Losing Control
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #26
Chapter 11
One option for the battle between the Divine Soul and the Animal is the "rasha." Rather than referring to a wicked person, the rasha in Tanya describes a state where the Animal Soul gains control over the body, breaching the defenses of the Divine Soul.
In this chapter, we explore the various forms the rasha can take and the cycles of relapse and remorse that mark its nature. However, even in the most extreme cases, the Divine Soul never disappears.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 10 (2): Lifestyle of a Tzadik
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #25
Chapter 10 pt. 2
How common are tzadikim? What is the spiritual lifestyle of a tzadik like?
In this class, we highlight two characteristics of a tzadik's life that we can learn from and use to advance our own spiritual development: To transform, instead of reject, negativity; and living a selfless life.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 10 (1): Victory of the Tzadik
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #24
Chapter 10 pt. 1
The war within rages between the two souls, each vying for total dominance over the body. There are five main divisions, each representing a different "front line" of the conflict.
This chapter details the Tzadik's triumphant victory. They reached perfect serenity, with the Divine Soul in complete command and the Animal Soul defeated and powerless.
We also look at two kinds of Tadikim: the "complete Tzadik" and the "incomplete Tzadik." This study provides us with a deeper understanding of the internal and emotional state of a Tzadik.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 9 (2): The Battle of the Souls
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #23 - Chapter 9 pt. 2
In this class, we are introduced to one of the fundamental cornerstones of Tanya: the battle of the souls. Each soul wants complete dominion over the entire human experience and has no room or tolerance for the other soul in its agenda.
This friction sets the stage for the Tanya's practical guidance in living a wholesome spiritual life.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 9 (1): Where are Your Two Souls?
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #22 - Chapter 9 pt. 1
After being introduced to our two souls in the previous chapters, the Tanya now explores how these two souls live and interact within us.
We will learn how the Animal Soul, being emotionally impulsive, is headquartered in the left side of the heart. As the Divine Soul begins its expression in the intellect, it is primarily headquartered in the brain while also having a secondary headquarters in the right side of the heart.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 8: Wear-and-Tear to the Soul
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #21 - Chapter 8
Previously, the Alter Rebbe described how the soul can effect change in Kelipah; Kelipas Nogah can, at times, be elevated to holiness or downgraded to the severe level of Kelipah, all based on our interaction with it.
In this chapter, we explore the inverse: the effect the Kelipah has on the soul. Unholy interaction with Kelipah, even Kelipas Nogah, tarnishes the purity of the soul and causes adverse reactions.
As part of this exploration, we cover the concept of punishment and "Gehinom" (hell or purgatory) in Judaism, as well as the unique intellectual Kelipah.
This chapter concludes the Tanya's primer on the topic of Kelipah.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 7 (2): The Kabbalah of the Permitted and Forbidden
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #20 - Chapter 7 pt. 2
This class continues the previous theme, discussing our interactions with Kelipah. While Kelipas Nogah is "untied" and therefore able to be elevated to holiness, anything that is of the three impure Kelipos is tied down and unable to be moved from its status.
The chapter concludes with a few exceptions to this rule.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 6 (3) - 7 (1): How to Make Your Life Holy
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #19 - Chapter 6 pt. 3 - 7 pt. 1
What does Judaism think about your physical life? Is it a distraction, even a necessary evil, in the face of the ideal spiritual lifestyle?
The opposite: most of the resources we interact with are opportunities waiting to be elevated to holy experiences.
This class introduces us to the two forms of Kelipah, and how we ought to interact with the higher form, Kelipas Nogah.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 6 (2): The Holy and the Non-Holy
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #18 - Chapter 6 pt. 2
Our exploration of the holy G-dly Soul and the non-holy Animal Soul leads us to a larger question: What is holy and sacred, and what is non-holy? What does holiness even mean?
In this class, we explore how Bittul allows something to be holy and how everything that is not holy is in a non-holy category, referred to as Kelipah or Sitra Achara.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 6 (1): Inside the Animal Soul
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #17 - Chapter 6 pt. 1
After exploring the identity and structure of the G-dly Soul, the Tanya now turns to its counterpart - the Animal Soul.
The Animal Soul is the mirror image and inverse of the G-dly Soul. Its identity, emotions, intellect, and garments are parallel and opposite to the G-dly soul's.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 5: What Torah Study Does to You
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #16 - Chapter 5
We don't study Torah simply to gain practical direction, knowledge, or inspiration. Rather, G-d invested His very essence into Torah. When we learn it, we allow G-d's will and wisdom to enter within us, becoming a part of who we are.
This is the power of studying Torah. It serves as the "food" for the soul, while the Mitzvos serve as its "clothing."
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 4 (3): The Power of a Mitzvah
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #15 - Chapter 4 pt. 3
This class explores further the power of a Mitzvah - The intimate bond it offers the soul to have with G-d.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Review Ch. 1-4
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #14 - Review chapters 1-4
This class gives an overview of the first four chapters of Tanya. We discuss the concept of the two souls, the Animal Soul and the G-dly Soul (ch. 1-2); the internal structure of the G-dly Soul (ch. 3); and the G-dly soul's three "Garments," i.e. modes of expressions (ch. 4).
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.
Tanya Ch. 4 (2): Why a Jew Needs Judaism
Tanya: The Kabbalah of You #13 - Chapter 4 pt. 2
What is more important, to be a Jew at heart or a Jew in action? If the rituals of Judaism are merely expressions of the soul, then are they really that important? If we already possess a holy Divine Soul that feels connected to G-d, how important are mitzvot?
This leads us to a more profound question: Is it even possible for a finite human being to connect with an infinite G-d? In this class, we challenge our conception of Torah and mitzvot and discover what Judaism gives a soul that the soul doesn't have on its own - an intimate bond with G-d.
You can contact Rabbi Dubov at rabbi@bhchabad.org.