Philosophy and Spirituality

2024 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

4 Session | 8 hours| Format: Discussion Group 

VISION

We endeavour to hold space for young minds to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. Guided by Hamdi Ben Aissa and co-facilitated by Mahdi Hassan and Sarah Walsh, our vision is to cultivate a safe and nurturing space where youth can explore the realms of rationality and spirituality with curiosity and openness.

We envision each session as an opportunity for participants to engage in enriching discussions that challenge their beliefs, encourage critical thinking, and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them. Through philosophical inquiries and spiritual reflections, we aim to spark profound insights and foster intellectual growth among our youth.

Our exchange group is more than just a forum for intellectual exploration; it is a platform for building meaningful connections and fostering a sense of belonging. We envision participants coming together to share meals, bond over shared experiences, and forge lasting friendships, creating a community grounded in unity and faith.

In realizing this vision, we aspire to empower youth to navigate life's complexities with clarity, resilience, and compassion. Together, let us embark on this transformative voyage of the mind and spirit, where curiosity leads to contemplation, and enlightenment paves the way for personal and collective growth.

PROGRAM COMPONENTS

This is a multifaceted program that encompasses major aspects of Islamic and universal spirituality and philosophical inquiries. The topics we will discuss will include:

Week 1: The Divine and The Unseen

• What do we call God?
• Who and what is God?
• How do we interact with God?
• Is the difference between God and Lord?
• Is there a place for better terminology when discussing the Divine?
• How do we relate to the Unseen and what is the place of the Unseen in our lives?

Week 2: The Prophet, Prophetess, guided ones and the Spirit of Guidance

• What are the functions of the Prophets and their missions?
• Who is the Prophet Muhammad (may God empower is light and connection to him) to us?

Week 3: The Word of God

• How to interact with the Word of God (i.e. the Quran)?
• What does it mean for God to speak to humans

Week 4: The Role of Rituals

• Why do we have rituals?
• How do we live them in a healthy way?
• Is there a place for a different form of ritual?
• What is the role of the environment and nature in the rituals we practice?

DISCUSSION GROUPS

WHEN: Fridays 5PM - 7PM

Our programs run continuously once a week in the month of Ramadan to ensure that the youth have ongoing opportunities for growth and development.

Each discussion group will be focused on one topic.

Note: In support of the Rhoda Foundation's Ramadan 2024 Fundraising Campaign, the Ha Mim Institute will be offering classes that are accessible upon giving a suggestive donation to the Rhoda Foundation.

Registration is mandatory before attending the class.

For more information and to read more about the facilitators, please visit https://www.hamdibenaissa.com/philosophyandspirituality