Alef BookCity hosted the cultural event “In Search of Meaning,” with Mehdi Firouzan and Zeinab Aghazamani, representing the Zama reading group. The session centred on the search for meaning and authenticity in contemporary life.
The opening discussion considered the contrast between materialist outlooks in the West and meaning-oriented traditions in the East, with their sense of connection to the transcendent. Firouzan stressed the importance of moving beyond superficial choices and reflected on encounters with suffering and loss. He described how, rather than accepting the role of victim in the face of adversity, a person may draw fresh and constructive meaning from grief. The relationship between the human being and God in Eastern tradition was presented not as that of judge and accused, but as a profound bond of love.
The final part addressed entrepreneurship and the importance of joining it with love and thought. The discussion explored how, despite fear and doubt, people can open new paths and work towards success by drawing on inner conviction and remaining patient through periods of uncertainty.
The event concluded with questions and a shared discussion among the speakers and participants. They exchanged views on the central role of books and on ways of creating meaning in everyday life and in the world of work and enterprise.
