For over two centuries, the Tanya has shaped how Jews understand the soul and their relationship with God.
Yet many have never encountered its core ideas clearly and in order.
In this structured 12-week course, Rabbi Manis Friedman presents twelve revolutionary ideas introduced by the Tanya — ideas that redefine the soul, struggle, joy, love, and purpose.
This is not a text-study class.
It is a clear introduction to Tanya’s framework.
Why Learn Tanya?
Tanya is often treated as either:
An academic text to decode.
Or inspiration to sample.
It is neither.
It is a structured way of understanding the soul, struggle, and purpose.
If you’ve ever asked:
What is the
soul?
Why do I
struggle?
What does joy have to do with serving God?
What is the purpose of existence?
This course offers a clear entry point into one of Judaism’s most transformative works.
What This Course Is
- A 12-week introduction to Tanya
- One core idea explored each week
- High-level, idea-driven teaching
- Led by Rabbi Manis Friedman
- Moderated by Yoni Katz
Each week builds on the last, forming a clear understanding of Tanya’s foundational ideas.
What This Course Is Not
- Not a line-by-line study
- Not academic analysis
- Not psychology dressed as Torah
- Not an attempt to “finish Tanya”
It is a structured introduction designed to clarify the essentials.
A Twelve-Week Journey
The 12 Revolutionary Ideas
Over twelve weeks, we will explore:
Not Everyone Can Be a Tzaddik
You Are Not Your Behavior
The Anatomy of the Soul
What Evil Really Is
How to Love a God You Cannot See
The Five Dimensions of Love
Joy Is Not Optional
Regret vs. Teshuva
Loving a Fellow Jew
The Purpose of Creation
Serving Beyond Self-Improvement
The Essential Relationship Between God and Man
