The exploration of the nature of art, questioning traditional definitions and societal perceptions. It critically examines how art is produced and consumed, highlighting the economic inequalities that support "upper-class" art and the potential for a more universal artistic expression. The author asserts that true art lies in its ability to genuinely evoke feelings in others, contrasting this with what is deemed "counterfeit" art, which often relies on borrowed themes, artificial effects, or intellectual puzzles rather than genuine emotion. The discussion also explores the role of religion and morality in shaping artistic values, ultimately suggesting that art's purpose should be to unite humanity through shared emotions derived from a contemporary understanding of human brotherhood.

Original documents by

WHAT IS ART? BY LEO TOLSTOY

https://dn790001.ca.archive.org/0/items/whatisart00tolsuoft/whatisart00tolsuoft.pdf

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Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AZRamTYWSyS5tJ0jCez9Y2V8v4hfVuZd/view?usp=sharing

This document presents a comprehensive philosophical exploration of various aspects of human existence, knowledge, and society, largely through the lens of Islamic thought and the works of Muhammad Taqi Ja’fari. It examines the philosophy of science, differentiating it from philosophy itself, and explores various methods of acquiring knowledge, including the role of senses, belief, and logical understanding. The text scrutinizes human nature, discussing concepts like free will, conscience, and the development of the self, alongside social and ethical considerations such as human rights, work, and the nature of civilization. Furthermore, it incorporates Qur'anic interpretations and critiques of Western philosophical ideas, like those of Whitehead, Hume, and Russell, to build a unique framework for understanding the relationship between man, the universe, and God.

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Original documents by

Muhammad Taqi Ja’fari

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammad-Taqi_Ja%27fari

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Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/116T7SKafspTsqQ8ai1-2l8Szh3_GSKYO/view?usp=sharing

The speaker emphasizes that faith in God and the Hereafter naturally leads to righteous actions, asserting that virtue and vice have inherent consequences in this world and the next. The text also touches on the nature of death as a transition rather than an end, encouraging reflection on our deeds as the true measure of our being, and highlights the value of self-reflection and continuous self-improvement, accessible to everyone regardless of age. Finally, it underscores that divine and human guidance, including scripture, the wisdom of saints, and the beauty in art and nature, serve as mirrors to help individuals cultivate a beautiful inner self.

Original Persian lecture by

Dr. Hossein Elahi Ghomshei

Website www.drelahighomshei.com

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hossein_Elahi_Ghomshei

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Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yuG9nzXvjMloS7-CUxwHNibEHdV7AJAM/view?usp=sharing

"Emile," discuss the philosophy of education, contrasting traditional methods with a natural approach. They emphasize the importance of sensory experience, learning through doing, and allowing children's curiosity and judgment to develop organically rather than through rote memorization or formal instruction. The material also addresses the concept of natural justice, the right to self-defense when laws fail, and notably, outlines a distinct educational framework for women, focusing on docility, domestic duties, and a virtue-based approach relative to their perceived natural roles in society. The excerpts challenge conventional pedagogical practices and propose an education grounded in the individual's innate nature and the reality of the physical world, while also touching on moral and religious development at appropriate stages of life.

Additional Documents (E-Book)

https://oll.libertyfund.org/titles/rousseau-emile-or-education

Briefing Doc and FAQ

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Xlzd1hg4k4PuOHMQqUlYoBZHqV3ZmfbR/view?usp=sharing

This booklet, Indian Home Rule by M. K. Gandhi, presents a dialogue between an Editor and a Reader exploring the concept of Indian self-rule (Swaraj). The discussion critiques modern Western civilization, particularly its machinery, legal and medical professions, and educational systems, arguing they have impoverished India and eroded its moral strength. Gandhi champions traditional Indian civilization, emphasizing self-control (self-rule), passive resistance (soul-force or love-force), and the adoption of Swadeshi (self-sufficiency) as the path to genuine freedom. He rejects violence and mere petitioning, advocating for inner reform and a rejection of harmful aspects of foreign influence to achieve true home rule. The text also addresses Hindu-Muslim unity and includes endorsements of Indian civilization from various Western scholars.

Download Book

https://archive.org/details/indianhomerule00gand/page/n3/mode/2up

Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15_AsvEDO51RETpPdyCUH-KRy9ECHqQI_/view?usp=sharing

This source introduces Kaizen, a Japanese philosophy centered on making small, incremental changes to achieve significant improvements in various aspects of life. The author's experiences in Japan inspired her to explore Kaizen, observing its emphasis on patience, order, and attention to detail. The book explains how applying these gradual steps can transform personal habits, routines, and goals, contrasting this method with unsustainable, drastic changes. It provides practical advice on using Kaizen for self-improvement in areas like health, finances, work, home, and relationships, advocating for a mindful and continuous approach to positive change.

Download Book

https://ia902805.us.archive.org/5/items/kaizen-the-japanese-method-for-transforming-habits-one-small-step-at-a-time/Kaizen%20-%20The%20Japanese%20Method%20for%20Transforming%20Habits,%20One%20Small%20Step%20at%20a%20Time.pdf

Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

.https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k_xeOx1Ta0G_TqBcrI3lnmtDnRoRXOi-/view?usp=sharing

The audio excerpts from Nezami Ganjavi's poem offer reflections on the significance of the new year (Nowruz) for renewal and spiritual growth. The speaker emphasizes planning for personal improvement, including physical health, relationships, and intellectual pursuits like reading the Quran and classic literature. Overcoming negative traits like envy, anger, and greed is encouraged in favor of cultivating positive qualities such as love, kindness, and service to others. The discourse suggests that true happiness and fulfillment come from aligning oneself with divine principles and striving for inner beauty and wisdom, rather than fleeting material pleasures. Ultimately, the new year is presented as an opportunity for transformative change, urging listeners to shed negativity and embrace a path of righteousness and contribution.

Original Persian lecture by

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Dr. Hossein Elahi Ghomshei

Website www.drelahighomshei.com

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hossein_Elahi_Ghomshei

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Nezami Ganjavi (Persian Romantic Poet)

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Nezami

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Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

.https://drive.google.com/file/d/1k_xeOx1Ta0G_TqBcrI3lnmtDnRoRXOi-/view?usp=sharing

The source is a transcribed audio recording of a lecture discussing the relationship between Irfan (Sufi mysticism) and technology. The speaker explores how both are driven by a desire to uncover hidden truths and connections. He refutes the idea that technological advancement renders Irfan obsolete, arguing that true innovation is rooted in divine inspiration and insight, just as Irfan is. The talk emphasizes that Irfan, like technology, is a means of progressing from the known to the unknown, using the world as a medium to access a higher reality. The speaker connects love to seeking greater knowledge and overcoming life's complexities through God.

Original Persian lecture by

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Dr. Hossein Elahi Ghomshei

Website www.drelahighomshei.com

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hossein_Elahi_Ghomshei

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Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rft9uvfn2GUg27I23Dnw-9qTI6nWY7tj/view?usp=sharing

This source presents a discourse on the interconnectedness of Ensan (humanity) and Erfan (mysticism). The speaker emphasizes moving beyond merely uttering God's name to embodying divine principles in one's actions. It explores the concept of transforming multiplicity into unity through love, detachment, and ethical conduct. The discussion references various spiritual traditions and figures, highlighting the role of art, nature, and good deeds in this transformative journey. Ultimately, it defines Erfan as a path toward realizing the full potential of humanity, characterized by inner peace, wisdom, and a profound connection to the divine.

Original Persian lecture by

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Dr. Hossein Elahi Ghomshei

Website www.drelahighomshei.com

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hossein_Elahi_Ghomshei

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Additional sources (FAQ, Briefing Doc)

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z8F6NqPWRR0SyGuEZCOaQbxPB67MkUT9/view?usp=drive_link

The sources explore the intersection of literature and spirituality, drawing parallels between Persian Sufi poetry and English literary traditions. A central metaphor of "wine" represents spiritual experience, distinguishing between superficial and profound understanding. The discussion traces a historical journey through English literature, examining key figures like Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Marlowe, while highlighting themes of justice, human nature, and the search for truth. The texts analyze various literary works, exploring their symbolic meanings and spiritual implications, emphasizing the transformative power of art and the enduring quest for connection with the divine. Ultimately, the sources advocate for a deeper engagement with literature, viewing it as a pathway to self-knowledge and spiritual growth.

Original Persian lecture by Dr. Hossein Elahi Ghomshei

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Website www.drelahighomshei.com

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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hossein_Elahi_Ghomshei

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Additional sources (Briefing Doc)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UA7kL-VTUQpp926lTjtKXfsdwNfjAx-M/view?usp=sharing