The Alter Rebbe in his magnum-opus, which revolutionized Jews spirituality, philosophy ad-infinitum! called the Tanya; outlines five types of spiritual states: the perfect Tzaddik – usually one in a generation whose abhorrence of evil is matched by his love of good/God – The imperfect Tzaddik whose abhorrence of evil is limited, for his love of good/God is – The wicked with good, person – whose desire for good is challenged by the common instinctual challenges (lust, anger, laziness, “having fun” etc.; this individual is constantly feeling guilty – for his desire to good is often circumvented, as he lacks the will-power and self-discipline to actualize his noble ideals) The wicked person who is totally wicked – in contrast to the first, this person has become arrogant – he sees himself entitled – (only through being humbled – which can occur by contemplating his misdeeds – can he regain perspective, rationality) And finally, the average (in-between the Tzaddik and wicked) whereas a person creates both the will-power and self-discipline
By zevi770 · July 7, 2015