Study Circle
What is a Study Circle?
"What is a Study Circle? It is not just reading books. "Circle, Study Circle" means taking a point and each person discussing what is the meaning of the point to them. Like a round-table conference. Each person gives their point of view, and finally values are derived from this. If there is just reading, there is doubt. But if each one gives his view, doubts will be answered. The topic is viewed; the Study Circle looks at different facets. It is like a diamond with its different facets, but there is one facet that is flat, the top facet, and from this all can be viewed. To discover the top facet is the task of the Study Circle.
Swami's talks may be taken, or other scriptures.
Take a point. Have everyone think about it and discuss it, and come to the final point where doubt is decreased. If only one person reads, there will be only one meaning. All misunderstandings, all points of view --after these are brought out, the Study Circle members will get confidence. There is no doubt of this.
If each one only reads, this may go on for a year or two, then an allergy to reading develops.
Centers must have Study Circles in this way, and none will note the passage of time. Each one listens eagerly and many will give their point of view. The Bible, the Koran, the Gita, Swami's books may be used. What is wanted is a Study Circle; rotating. Each one must be given a chance.
When conducting a study circle the focus should be on the following:
A. The goals of a Study Circle
B. The process of holding a Study Circle
C. The role of the facilitator
D. The role of the participant
Guidelines on how to conduct Study Circles
For further information contact the National Devotion Team - details listed at the bottom of our Home Page.