Weekly Study Circle

Description:

We are devoted to exploring the great ideas and timeless truths in order to realize and apply them in our lives. Each month we read a book that relates in some way to spiritual and intellectual growth. In particular, we engage works that cover topics relating to the spiritual path in our modern world. Unlike lecture style courses in which the student passively listens while the teacher lectures, in this group each individual reads the text on their own and we come together weekly to discuss collectively. 

Intention:

In the Quran, Allah constantly calls us to be people who reflect and who contemplate. Our intention is to reflect deeply on the great questions relating to God, the cosmos, and the human soul. We intend to take as our guides the wise one of the past and present and we intend to reflect on the implications of this wisdom for our lives here and now. 

Format:

We read a book a month and come together each week to discuss the week’s readings. Each week we read roughly a quarter of the book (weekly readings are specified at the beginning of each month). Every Monday evening at 8-9:30PM PST we gather for seminar during which we discuss, ask questions, and share our learnings. Discussions are facilitated by Baraka Blue with rotating co-facilitators. 

Our style is dialectical as opposed to didactical. Didactical teaching privileges the lecture whereas dialectical is based on dialogue and discourse between people as a means for individuals to arrive at realization and deepened self-awareness. 

Expectations:

Each individual is expected to read the text each month. Unlike other class styles in which one may passively participate simply by showing up and listening, the seminar style puts the onus on each individual to do the readings, reflect on its main arguments and perspectives, and contribute their insights, understandings, and questions to the discussion. While it is definitely more demanding, it is also more rewarding, as each individual will come away with the insights gleaned from a deep engagement with each text, as well as the insights gleaned from the other participant’s deep engagements with the same text. 

We will discuss styles of reading and ways to ascertain the key points, arguments and assertions of a text without reading every word on every line on every page. However, this group does demand that each individual put in the work every week to sit with the text.

Wasat also offers classes that are more casual and less demanding, so if you are not willing or able to commit to this level of engagement, all are always welcome to engage there. More information on our other upcoming classes can be found on our events calendar.

Cost:

Upon acceptance of application, there is a $20 monthly membership fee.

Those interested in the joining may apply by filling out the registration form.

Once registered you will be emailed class Zoom meeting link and details.

We look forward to learning with all of you.

Upcoming Readings: