The Severity of Ingratitude

The “Tanya” is an early work of Hasidic philosophy, written by Rav Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the founder of Chabad Chassidim. It was first published in 1796.
The book is designed to help its reader reach his spiritual potential. It identifies with man’s struggles, and attempts to guide him on a path that will give meaning and purpose in life.

The Tanya clarifies the contrast between the one who chooses to live a life of purity, as opposed to the one that is brought down by being unable to control his lusts and desires.

This contrast is very extreme, as in one instance, an individual can reach a level similar to that of an angel. While if the path of materialism and self indulgence is chosen, he can sink to a level lower than that of an animal.

Rav Shlomo Mann was an admirer of the Tanya, and often expounded on its lessons. He gave the most basic explanation for what causes man to fall, and not rise.
The main reason for man’s spiritual decline begins with the sin of ingratitude. When a person is unable or unwilling to recognize and appreciate acts of kindness, he begins to fall.

He becomes more and more selfish and self absorbed. Everything centers around him, and what he believes he has coming to him. He never gives to society, but only takes. He only sees himself and what will bring him gratification.

It is no wonder how such a person continues to fall lower and lower. In the words of Tanya, he gets stuck in a Kelipa, or shell, and cannot get out.

We must realize how severe it is to be an ingrate, and we should stay away from such people. The Tanya teaches many valuable lessons. This might be one of the most important.