Explore what it means to lead with authenticity and purpose. This month, we’ll discuss Robert E. Quinn’s Entering the Fundamental State of Leadership and reflect on how moving beyond comfort and fear can unlock personal and collective transformation. Join us for an evening of insight, reflection, and meaningful dialogue.

Experience the transformative practice of Sema, where whirling meditation meets sacred music. As you spin to mystical rhythms in this ancient Sufi tradition, feel the everyday world gently dissolve into a state of divine connection and inner peace. Founded by the beloved poet Rumi, this gathering welcomes all seekers with open hearts.

What does it mean to “work on oneself”? This is the question Annie Lou Staveley, a student of Gurdjieff, invites us to consider in The Plan is Good. Through selected readings, we’ll explore ideas of self-transformation, inner awakening, and what it means to break free from the conditioning that binds us. Together, we’ll reflect on the path of becoming—discovering how to align our lives with a deeper sense of purpose and truth.

Experience the transformative practice of Sema, where whirling meditation meets sacred music. As you spin to mystical rhythms in this ancient Sufi tradition, feel the everyday world gently dissolve into a state of divine connection and inner peace. Founded by the beloved poet Rumi, this gathering welcomes all seekers with open hearts.

In October, the Bab Al Ilm Open Book Club will focus on the chapter “Effort and the Effortless Path” from The Taste of Hidden Things by Sara Sviri. This chapter invites us into the paradox of the spiritual journey: the tension between disciplined effort and the effortless flow that emerges when we surrender. Through reflections on Naqshbandi masters and Sufi mysticism, we’ll contemplate how these timeless teachings apply to our own lives.

Discover the profound difference between fleeting pleasure and lasting fulfillment in our upcoming Open Book Club meeting. We'll explore the concepts of hedonistic and eudaimonic well-being, diving into how living a life of purpose and virtue can lead to deeper, more meaningful happiness. Engage with ideas that challenge the consumer-driven pursuit of pleasure and consider how aligning with your true nature can transform both your inner and outer world. This discussion is a must for anyone seeking a more profound understanding of well-being.

"The purpose of all your study is to bring you to a realization of your 'essential' oneness with the One and Only Absolute Existence. Here remember that the word 'essential' mainly means 'in your essence' as well as your origin and your reality." Bulent Rauf, "Addresses"

Are you ready to take an inspired voyage into the sublime metaphysical visions of Ibn Arabi, one of history's most profound and unique mystic-philosophers? This season, The Open Book Club sets its sights on "The Universal Tree and the Four Birds" - a richly symbolic masterwork that reveals an entire cosmos within a single, all-encompassing Tree of Being.

Join us for an illuminating discussion on "Beginning Theory: An Introduction to Literary and Cultural Theory" by Peter Barry. This event is part of The Open Book Club series, where we delve into the fascinating world of literary and cultural theory. Whether you're new to these concepts or seeking a deeper understanding, this session promises insightful conversations and engaging reflections. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, June 26th at 8 PM EST, and embark on a journey into the realm of critical theory with fellow book enthusiasts.

Discover the captivating tale of "Journey of the Soul: The Story of Hai bin Yaqzan" by Ibn Tufail in our upcoming Open Book Club meeting. Join us on Wednesday, May 22th at 8:00 PM EST for an insightful discussion exploring themes of philosophy, human nature, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Get ready for a soul-stirring journey into the realms of timeless Sufi wisdom. Wednesday April 24th at 8PM EST, The Open Book Club soars into "The Conference of the Birds" - the captivating 12th century allegory by the revered Persian poet Farid Ud-din Attar.