The Rebbe said that it takes both wisdom and great effort to be like an animal (cf. Shabbat 117b). The wisdom one needs to be like a beast is alluded to in the verse, “Every wise-hearted man whom God bestowed wisdom is a beast”²⁰ (BaHeiMah).” BaHeiMaH can also be read, BeHeiMaH ("is a beast"). (Exodus 36:1).

footnotes: ²⁰ Usually translated, “Every wise-hearted man whom God bestowed wisdom in them

It is also written, “God saves man and beast” (Psalms 36:7). Our Sages say this refers to “people who are wise and clever, and conduct themselves humbly like an animal” (Chulin 5b). This is also the meaning of Asaf’s words, “I was a fool, I did not know, I was like an animal before You” (Psalms 73:22).