Purification of the Heart: Men's Book Club

Join us for a weekly book club and discussion group as we collectively strive to purify our hearts and grow closer to Allah through understanding and treating the spiritual diseases that afflict us all. We will read and reflect on Hamza Yusuf's translation and commentary of Imam Mawlud's classical work, Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms, and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart. Each session will cover one chapter, including group discussions and reflections on heart diseases and their treatments. While we encourage consistent attendance for shared reflection and continuity, each session is self-contained, and participants are welcome to drop in even if they cannot commit to attending every week. Sidi Mohammed Kaddoura facilitates this group. Starts October 16 | Thursdays | 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. | Conference Room | In-person only Class Schedule: Tracking Chapters: Purification of the Heart– Men’s Book Club Disclaimer: This book club is intended to stimulate thought and reflection, not to teach deen. It is not a fiqh or aqidah class. Discussion Group Guidelines Everyone has something to say; everyone has something to learn. Shy participants are encouraged to contribute. Talkative participants are encouraged to listen more. Confidentiality is essential. Do not share other participants' reflections outside the group. It's okay to say, "someone in my book club made me think about…" but not "so-and-so said…" Give 70 excuses. Assume good intentions. If disagreements arise, remember our shared goal is growth. We leave differences in the room and continue with brotherhood outside of it. Maintain emotional awareness. The topics we discuss may evoke strong emotions. All participants are expected to remain calm, respectful, and emotionally intelligent. Please avoid getting carried away in conversation. Proper etiquette is required at all times. Book Purchase Please purchase the book in advance if you want to follow along. Available at: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Purification-Heart-Symptoms-Spiritual-Diseases/dp/1929694156 Zaytuna Bookstore: https://bookstore.zaytuna.edu/products/purificationoftheheart About the Book This exploration of Islamic spirituality delves into the psychological diseases and cures of the heart. The causes and practical cures of these diseases are discussed, offering a penetrating glimpse into how Islam deals with spiritual and psychological problems and demonstrating how all people can benefit from these teachings. Author: Imam Mawlud (translated and with extensive commentary by Hamza Yusuf) About the Translator Hamza Yusuf is an American Islamic scholar and co-founder of Zaytuna College, the first accredited Muslim liberal arts college in the United States. He is one of the most influential Islamic educators in the Western world, known for his ability to bridge traditional Islamic scholarship with contemporary issues. Questions? [email protected] October – 16 Welcome & Book Overview October – 23 Introduction to Purification October – 30 Miserliness November – 06 No Meeting November – 13 Wantoness November – 20 Hatred November – 27 No Meeting – Thanksgiving December – 04 Iniquity December – 11 Love of the World December – 18 Envy December – 25 No Meeting – Christmas January – 01 No Meeting – New Year's Day January – 08 Blameworthy Modesty January – 15 Fantasizing January – 22 Fear of Poverty January – 29 Ostentation February – 05 Relying on Other than God February – 12 Displeasure with Divine Decree February – 19 No Meeting – Ramadan February – 26 No Meeting – Ramadan March – 05 No Meeting – Ramadan March – 12 No Meeting – Ramadan March – 19 No Meeting – Ramadan ⚠️ This is a recurring event (Every Thursday). Please check with MCC East Bay to confirm the schedule, as classes may be paused during holidays or special occasions.