by Ram ben Ze'ev
In the mystical text Lessons in Tanya, particularly in Iggeret HaKodesh, Epistle Twenty-Five, a profound concept emerges regarding the nature of suffering, especially when the Jewish people face adversity. The text presents a challenging yet comforting view that all trials and attacks, whether against an individual Jew or the nation as a whole, are rooted in Divine decree. Even when an enemy appears to act with malice, their actions are part of a greater plan orchestrated by G-D, who controls every aspect of creation. If the adversary chose not to act, the decree would find another way to manifest, as the hardship had already been determined by G-D’s will.
This perspective carries significant implications for understanding adversity and offers a deeper spiritual approach to facing challenges. Here, we explore several key lessons drawn from this teaching.
G-D's Justice and the Hidden Meaning of Suffering
In Jewish tradition, suffering is never viewed as random or meaningless. The mystics of the Holy Zohar and later Chassidic teachings emphasise that G-D's justice is perfect, even when it is hidden. Suffering and trials, though painful, are part of G-D's overarching plan, designed for purposes that often elude human understanding. This principle applies not only to individual trials but also to collective suffering experienced by the Jewish nation throughout history.
The righteous, in particular, might endure suffering not as a direct consequence of sin but as a means of spiritual refinement or for the sake of a larger cosmic purpose. This notion encourages individuals to shift their focus from seeking simplistic explanations to embracing a broader, Divine perspective.
Enemies as Instruments of Divine Will
While individuals have free will, the teaching in Iggeret HaKodesh clarifies that enemies who rise against Israel are not the true cause of suffering. They are merely instruments through which a Divine decree is carried out. If one adversary chooses not to act, the decree would still unfold in another manner, for the trial itself is ordained by G-D.
This understanding challenges the typical response of anger or blame towards those who bring harm. Instead, it encourages a recognition that the root cause is Divine. Enemies serve a function within a larger, hidden purpose—though they remain accountable for their choices, the decree itself is not altered by their decisions.
A Call for Humility and Acceptance
Faced with the inevitability of Divine decree, one might wonder how to respond to adversity. The Tanya suggests a posture of humility and acceptance, recognising that all suffering is ultimately from G-D. This does not deny the reality of pain or negate the need to pursue justice, but it situates challenges within a context of Divine intention. The result is a response that prioritises spiritual growth, a deeper connection to G-D, and the search for meaning even in the darkest times.
The Power of Teshuvah and Prayer
Although suffering is decreed, Jewish tradition also emphasises the transformative power of Teshuvah (repentance) and prayer. A sincere return to G-D and heartfelt prayer can change one’s fate, demonstrating the dynamic interaction between human effort and Divine will. While G-D is the ultimate cause of all that occurs, human action—particularly devotion and repentance—has the potential to influence and reshape one's reality.
This teaching is not a call for passive acceptance but rather a directive to engage more deeply with G-D, seeking to align one's will with the Divine even amidst difficulty. It underscores the paradox of Jewish thought: G-D is both the source of decree and the merciful redeemer who listens to the cries of His people.
A Vision of Hope and Redemption
Acknowledging that suffering is within G-D's control does not lead to despair. On the contrary, it fills the Jewish soul with hope and faith in redemption. The Jewish people have withstood centuries of persecution, enduring trials that might have crushed another nation. Yet, their survival is not merely a matter of resilience but a testament to the ultimate purpose of these trials—to pave the way for redemption.
The pain and challenges faced by the Jewish people are seen as catalysts for spiritual growth and a deeper connection with G-D. Each adversity, no matter how severe, carries within it the seed of redemption. The ultimate promise is that this cycle of suffering will culminate in the arrival of the Mashiach, a time when the true purpose of all challenges will be revealed, and peace will be restored to Israel and the world.
Conclusion: Embracing a Higher Perspective
The teachings from Iggeret HaKodesh urge a departure from a purely material view of reality. It challenges the reader to see adversity not as an obstacle to be overcome but as an invitation to engage with the Divine in a deeper way. Recognising that all events, even those that bring pain, are expressions of G-D’s will allows for a response rooted in faith and trust.
This perspective transforms suffering into an opportunity for spiritual growth. It invites individuals and the Jewish nation as a whole to seek G-D’s presence even in moments of darkness, affirming that everything is part of a larger, redemptive plan. Through this lens, every trial becomes a step towards a more profound understanding of G-D’s justice and love, strengthening the faith that in the end, all will be revealed for the good.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews Limited, Mayside Partners Limited, MEADHANAN Agency, Kestrel Assets Limited, SpudsToGo Limited and Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue