This class moves right into studying the Shaar Blaat (Title Page), Haskomos (Approbations), and Hakdama (Introduction) to the Tanya. Some of the topics covered include: why Haskamas were written, the practical function of Haskamas, who wrote them, and stories associated with this period in Chabad history. Rabbi Paltiel explains his view on the role of the Hakdama (Introduction). In short, it is intended to communicate to Chassidim that the Tanya is a sefer (book) about avodas Hashem (how to serve the G-d). The class also includes an overview of the concepts Tzadik, Beinoni, and Rasha. In particular, why these terms are defined differently in the Gemara and in the Kabbala. Finally, before the Alter Rebbe can teach one how to become a spiritually developed person, he has to attack a more basic question – What is a person? The first nine chapters of the Tanya cover this fundamental question.
