The Art of Giving

An exploration of Khalil Gibran’s famous philosophy of Giving viewed through the lens of Vedanta.

Khalil Gibran (1883-1931) was a poet, artist and visionary. His most famous book The Prophet explores how Giving is both our identity and our path to divinity.

The Prophet encourages selflessness and generosity, but beyond this lies a far deeper idea. Giving is not just an action but a way of being. A spirituality that enriches both the giver, the receiver and the world. So why is it so hard to give?

Join us for an exciting journey of self-discovery and transformation as we explore the different forms of giving and how they may be applied in our lives. Mastering the Art of Giving is the key to understanding oneself and our place on the world stage.

This 4 session course will run in October 2025. Each class lasts one hour and a quarter.

The course fee is by donation. After you register you will be taken to the donation page.

The 3 classes will be held in the Library of the Hampstead Quaker Meeting House, 120 Heath St, London NW3 1DR - a 5 minute walk from Hampstead Underground Station. Space is limited to a dozen people, so it’s essential to register.

FAQs

Q: Do you need to have read any of Khalil Gibran’s work before the course or bring a copy of The Prophet with you?

A: No, the course is self-contained. (The Prophet is a short book and we will only be referring to a short section of it. But it’s a great book to read!)

Q: Do I need to know anything about the philosophy of Vedanta?

A: No. (In its way The Art of Giving is a short introduction to Vedanta.)

Q: Is there parking for cars near the venue?

A: Yes, there is parking available in nearby streets but not at the Quaker Meeting House itself.

Our teacher

 

The class will be led by Parulji who has been researching and studying the Gita for over two decades under the guidance of Swami Parthasarathy, the founder of the Vedanta Academy in India.  Her approach is to encourage questions and to welcome debate – all within a framework of camaraderie, openness and truth.

What to expect?

Our sessions are in-person, explorative and interactive

Everyone is welcome and no prior knowledge of the topic is required

Questions are encouraged

We look forward to welcoming you !

Benefits

 

  • Understand the different forms of Giving

  • Discover whether you are a giver or a taker

  • Witness Giving as a visionary path

  • Gain the wisdom of right Giving to experience the world beyond a material prison

  • Reveal how Giving can totally transform a life

They give that they may live, for to withhold is to perish

The Prophet by Khalil Gibran