The Alchemy of Human Happiness: Study Group
March 14th, 2020 (2–5pm)
The October Gallery, 24 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3AL
The second in a series of study groups on a new translation of a seminal work of Muhyiddin Ibn ‘Arabi. The first session took place in January 2020. A third session is planned for May. All are welcome, including anyone who did not attend the first session.
Event Description
From the publisher’s website :
“In this first English translation of chapter 167 from the famous Meccan Illuminations (al-Futūḥāt al-Makkiyya), Ibn ʿArabi comprehensively summarises all his major teachings on human perfectibility and true happiness. Using the imagery of alchemy and ascension, he gives the reader an extraordinary insight into the spiritual journey by contrasting two ways of acquiring knowledge: the rational and the mystical.”
In the first session we discussed the introductory part of the work, and then began the main text, which details a journey through the celestial spheres taken by two seekers, who represent the rational and mystical ways. In the second session we shall start at the beginning of this journey.
Our aim in these study sessions is not just to read about this journey of ascension but, as far as we are able, to engage actively with the journey. Our hope is that there will be a core group of participants who will read the work in their own time and attend most of the sessions. However each session will be open to anybody who wishes to come for a taste of what is on offer.
As with all study sessions sponsored by the Beshara Trust, there are no teachers as such, although there are experienced facilitators. We approach the text without intermediary, asking for education, clarification and immediate insight.
An introductory talk on the work by the translator Stephen Hirtenstein can be found here.
Booking & Fees
Cost: £8 + £1.54 registration fee from Eventbrite
Or from Facebook
Entry by ticket – refreshments provided
Enquiries:
Michael Cohen at london@beshara.org or 020 8300 7928
