(The American Baha'i, November-December 2014)
December 31, 2015
Traditional Colombian dance during the presentation of the unveiling of the temple's design
(The American Baha'i, November-December 2014)
December 29, 2015
December 2015: Gathering of the Counsellors at the Baha'i World Center
Members of the Continental Boards of Counsellors pictured
here with members of the Universal House of Justice and the International
Teaching Centre, December 29, 2015 (Baha’i World News Service)
December 17, 2015
“collective worship of God”: An activity “essential to the spiritual life of the community”
...the flourishing of the community, especially at the local
level, demands a significant enhancement in patterns of behaviour: those
patterns by which the collective expression of the virtues of the individual
members and the functioning of the Spiritual Assembly are manifest in the unity
and fellowship of the community and the dynamism of its activity and growth.
This calls for the integration of the component elements—adults, youth and
children—in spiritual, social, educational and administrative activities; and
their engagement in local plans of teaching and development... It involves the practice of collective worship of
God. Hence, it is essential to the spiritual life of the community that the
friends hold regular devotional meetings in local Bahá'í centres, where available,
or elsewhere, including the homes of believers.
- The Universal House of Justice (Ridvan 1996 message;
compilation: ‘Selected Guidance Concerning Devotional Gatherings’, prepared by
the research department of the Universal House of Justice, 2001)
December 16, 2015
Need “to ensure that the vision of the community fully embraces its younger members”
Strategies to advance the process of entry by troops cannot
ignore children and junior youth, if the victories won in one generation are
not to be lost with the passage of time. It is imperative, then, that at this
point in the process of systematization of the teaching work, definite steps be
taken to ensure that the vision of the community fully embraces its younger
members. The education of children, an obligation enjoined on both parents and institutions,
requires special emphasis so as to become thoroughly integrated into the
process of community development. This activity should be taken to new levels of
intensity during these twelve months and then be further raised in the years
immediately after. That the programmes of most institutes in the world provide
for the training of children's class teachers represents an element of
strength. Spiritual Assemblies and Auxiliary Board members will need to
mobilize these newly trained human resources to meet the spiritual requirements
of children and junior youth.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a message
dated 26 November 1999 addressed to the Baha’is of the World)
December 13, 2015
Youth: Need to have their “intellectual as well as spiritual side equally developed”
The future of this Cause, which is so dear to us all,
depends upon the energy and devotion of the rising generation. It
is you who before will be called to shoulder its responsibilities and
undertake its spread. To do that, however, you ought to be well equipped. You
ought to have your intellectual as well as spiritual side equally
developed.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a letter dated December 28, 1925, written on
behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the Baha’i Youth Baltimore, Maryland, USA; The
Compilation of Compilations, vol. II, Youth)
December 10, 2015
“…self-love is kneaded into the very clay of man…” – What can motivate man “to turn aside from his own selfish advantages”?
Sincerity is the foundation-stone of faith. That is, a
religious individual must disregard his personal desires and seek in whatever
way he can wholeheartedly to serve the public interest; and it is impossible
for a human being to turn aside from his own selfish advantages and sacrifice
his own good for the good of the community except through true religious faith.
For self-love is kneaded into the very clay of man, and it is not possible
that, without any hope of a substantial reward, he should neglect his own present
material good. That individual, however, who puts his faith in God and believes
in the words of God—because he is promised and certain of a plentiful reward in
the next life, and because worldly benefits as compared to the abiding joy and
glory of future planes of existence are nothing to him—will for the sake of God
abandon his own peace and profit and will freely consecrate his heart and soul
to the common good.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘The Secret of Divine Civilization’)
December 8, 2015
December 7, 2015
December 5, 2015
December 4, 2015
December 2, 2015
Examples of passages from the Qur’an containing “the highest levels and innermost meanings of civilization” and “excellencies of human character” – summarized by ‘Abdu’l-Baha
- “And they enjoin what is just, and forbid what is unjust, and speed on in good works. These are of the righteous.” [Qur’án 3:110]
- “that there may be among you a people who invite to the good, and enjoin the just, and forbid the wrong. These are they with whom it shall be well.” [Qur’án 3:100]
- “Verily, God enjoineth justice and the doing of good ... and He forbiddeth wickedness and oppression. He warneth you that haply ye may be mindful.” [Qur’án 16:92]
- “Make due allowances; and enjoin what is just, and withdraw from the ignorant.” [Qur’án 7:198]
- “...who master their anger, and forgive others! God loveth the doers of good.” [Qur’án 3:128]
- “There is no righteousness in turning your faces toward the East or the West, but he is righteous who believeth in God, and the last day, and the angels, and the Scriptures, and the Prophets; who for the love of God disburseth his wealth to his kindred, and to orphans, and the needy and the wayfarer, and those who ask, and for ransom; who observeth prayer, and payeth the legal alms, and who is of those who perform their covenant when they have covenanted, and are patient under ills and hardships, and in time of trouble: these are they who are just, and these are they who fear the Lord.” [Qur’án 2:172]
- “They prefer them before themselves, though poverty be their own lot.” [Qur’án 59:9]
November 29, 2015
The beginnings of European civilization and the influence of Islam – an explanation by ‘Abdu’l-Baha
The beginnings of European civilization date from the
seventh century of the Muslim era. The particulars were these: toward the end
of the fifth century of the hegira, the Pope or Head of Christendom set up a
great hue and cry over the fact that places sacred to the Christians, such as
Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Nazareth, had fallen under Muslim rule, and he stirred
up the kings and the commoners of Europe to undertake what he considered a holy
war. His impassioned outcry waxed so loud that all the countries of Europe
responded, and crusading kings at the head of innumerable hosts passed over the
Sea of Marmara and made their way to the continent of Asia. In those days the
Fátimid caliphs ruled over Egypt and some countries of the West, and most of
the time the kings of Syria, that is the Saljúqs, were subject to them as well.
Briefly, the kings of the West with their unnumbered armies fell upon Syria and
Egypt, and there was continuous warfare between the Syrian rulers and those of
Europe for a period of two hundred and three years. Reinforcements were always
coming in from Europe, and time and time again the Western rulers stormed and
took over every castle in Syria, and as often, the kings of Islám delivered
them out of their hands. Finally Saladin, in the year 693 A.H., drove the
European kings and their armies out of Egypt and off the Syrian coast.
Hopelessly beaten, they went back to Europe. In the course of these wars of the
Crusades, millions of human beings perished. To sum up, from 490 A.H. until 693, kings, commanders and other European leaders
continually came and went between Egypt, Syria and the West, and when in the
end they all returned home, they introduced into Europe whatever they had
observed over two hundred and odd years in Muslim countries as to government,
social development and learning, colleges, schools and the refinements of
living. The civilization of Europe dates from that time.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘The
Secret of Divine Civilization’)
November 26, 2015
November 22, 2015
circa 1936: Reconstructed House of Baha'u'llah's father in Takur
November 19, 2015
“Man has two powers”
Man has two powers;
and his development, two aspects. One power is connected with the material
world, and by it he is capable of material advancement. The other power is
spiritual, and through its development his inner, potential nature is awakened.
These powers are like two wings. Both must be developed, for flight is
impossible with one wing. Praise be to God! Material advancement has been
evident in the world, but there is need of spiritual advancement in like
proportion. We must strive unceasingly and without rest to accomplish the
development of the spiritual nature in man, and endeavor with tireless energy
to advance humanity toward the nobility of its true and intended station. For
the body of man is accidental; it is of no importance. The time of its disintegration
will inevitably come. But the spirit of man is essential and, therefore,
eternal. It is a divine bounty. It is the effulgence of the Sun of Reality and,
therefore, of greater importance than the physical body.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a
talk, 25 April, 1912, Washington, D.C.; ‘The Promulgation of Universal Peace:
Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and
Canada in 1912’)
November 16, 2015
Under what conditions the “divine bounties do not descend” upon a gathering of believers
… the affinity and love manifest in this meeting, the divine
susceptibilities witnessed here are not of this world but of the world of the
Kingdom. When the souls become separated and selfish, the divine bounties do
not descend, and the lights of the Supreme Concourse are no longer reflected
even though the bodies meet together. A mirror with its back turned to the sun
has no power to reflect the sun's effulgence.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From talk at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Howard
MacNutt, 12 April, 1912, New York; ‘The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks
Delivered by 'Abdu'l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in
1912’)
November 15, 2015
Can Baha’is take part in demonstrations? -- Guidance from the Universal House of Justice
As to the question
of taking part in demonstrations, individual Bahá’ís in every country are, in
principle, free to participate in efforts and activities, for instance in
peaceful rallies, that aim to further laudable objectives such as the
advancement of women, the promotion of social justice, the protection of the
environment, the elimination of all forms of discrimination, and the
safeguarding of human rights. However, should such activities begin to deviate
from their original purpose and assume a partisan character or degenerate into
violence, they must of course be avoided.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated 22 January 2010
written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)
November 13, 2015
The administrative institutions of the Faith “serve as a means for channelling the energies of the believers”
The administrative institutions of the Faith are intended to
serve as a means for channelling the energies of the believers and organizing
the religious and social affairs of the Bahá’í community.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated
22 January 2010 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an
individual believer)
November 10, 2015
November 7, 2015
November 5, 2015
‘Abdu’l-Bahá elaborates on the significance of the 12 Central States, the Heart of America
Now praise be to God that Chicago and its environs from the
beginning of the diffusion of the fragrances of God have been a strong heart.
Therefore, through divine bounty and providence it has become confirmed in
certain great matters.
First: The call of the Kingdom was in the very beginning
raised from Chicago. This is indeed a great privilege, for in future centuries
and cycles, it will be as an axis around which the honor of Chicago will
revolve.
Second: A number of souls with the utmost firmness and
steadfastness arose in that blessed spot in the promotion of the Word of God
and even to the present moment, having purified and sanctified the heart from
every thought, they are occupied with the promulgation of the teachings of God.
Hence the call of praise is raised uninterruptedly from the Supreme Concourse.
November 2, 2015
The inscription on the ring to be placed on the finger of the deceased
“I came forth from God, and return unto Him, detached from
all save Him, holding fast to His Name, the Merciful, the Compassionate.”
- Baha’u’llah (‘The Kitab-i-Aqdas’)
October 31, 2015
October 28, 2015
We are called upon to “vigorously engage in constructive public discourse”
While eschewing
partisan political activity, Bahá’ís are to vigorously engage in constructive
public discourse and in a wide range of social endeavours aimed at the
betterment of the world and the progress of their respective nations. They
undertake such activities with humility, discernment and respect for prevailing
laws and social conditions, in a spirit of learning and in collaboration with
like-minded groups and individuals, fully confident in the power inherent in
the principle of unity in diversity and in the efficacy of mutual aid and
cooperation.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated 22 January 2010 written on behalf of the
Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)
October 26, 2015
Four questions and subsequent answers by ‘Abdu’l-Baha – translated by Munírih Khánum
Questions, sent by Professor Cairns, Edinburgh, 24 June
1910:
1. Is it
right to speak of the Báb and of Centre as Manifestations, or as Incarnations?
2. Do the
Bahá'ís teach the doctrine of reincarnation?
3. Did
Bahá'u'lláh claim to supersede the Revelation of Jesus, the Christ?
4. Did
Centre claim to be greater than Jesus, the Christ?
Answers of 'Abdu'l-Bahá (the servant of God), Haifa, 20 July
1910:
O daughter of the Kingdom!
Your letter has arrived. Its contents caused spiritual
happiness and heartfelt gladness.
I wish to answer in detail, but at present my health is not
very strong; I am fatigued, so am obliged to write in short. When I feel better, I will write at length,
for verily, you are occupied with the work of the Kingdom and are serving the
world of Humanity, and therefore are worthy of correspondence.
Now I will write shortly.
October 25, 2015
Mbale, Uganda: Baha'is celebrate International Women's Day, 2000
Baha'is in Mbale, Uganda, in a parade celebrating International Women's Day, 2000 (The Baha'i World 2000-2001)
October 23, 2015
In the Baha’i community “the participation of every believer is of the utmost importance, and is a source of power and vitality as yet unknown to us.”
"Regard the world as the human body," wrote
Bahá'u'lláh to Queen Victoria. We can surely regard the Bahá'í world, the army
of God, in the same way. In the human body, every cell, every organ, every
nerve has its part to play. When all do so the body is healthy, vigorous,
radiant, ready for every call made upon it. No cell, however humble, lives
apart from the body, whether in serving it or receiving from it. This is true
of the body of mankind in which God "hast endowed each and all with
talents and faculties," and is supremely true of the body of the Bahá'í
World Community, for this body is already an organism, united in its
aspirations, unified in its methods, seeking assistance and confirmation from
the same Source, and illumined with the conscious knowledge of its unity.
Therefore, in this organic, divinely guided, blessed and illumined body the
participation of every believer is of the utmost importance, and is a source of
power and vitality as yet unknown to us. For extensive and deep as has been the
sharing in the glorious work of the Cause, who would claim that every single
believer has succeeded in finding his or her fullest satisfaction in the life
of the Cause? The Bahá'í World Community, growing like a healthy new body,
develops new cells, new organs, new functions and powers as it presses on to
its maturity, when every soul, living for the Cause of God, will receive from
that Cause, health, assurance and the overflowing bounties of Bahá'u'lláh which
are diffused through His divinely ordained order.
- The Universal House of
Justice (From a message dated September 1964 to the Baha’is of the World;
‘Messages from the Universal House of Justice 1963 to 1986’)
October 20, 2015
The “training institute process” versus the “many deepening classes, workshops and summer school courses”
…the House of
Justice feels that it would be beneficial for you to separate in your mind the
training institute process, so intimately connected with the promotion of
large-scale expansion and consolidation, from the many deepening classes,
workshops and summer school courses that form a fundamental part of Bahá’í
community life. Their number and diversity actually seem to be on the rise as a
result of the institute process. Indeed, you will be reassured to know that, as
the believers gain confidence in their capacity to serve through the institute
process, a much richer expression of the diverse talents of the friends is
beginning to appear in the Bahá’í world—a richness that bodes well for the
future progress of the Cause.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated 26 June 2002 written on
behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)
October 18, 2015
The “teachings and instructions of Baha'u'llah” – summarized by ‘Abdu’l-Baha
Thou hast inquired regarding the teachings and instructions of
Baha'u'llah! Thou must instruct the people of the world in the Love of God,
that they may eradicate the foundation of warfare and strife, be attracted by
the Glad-tidings of the kingdom of Abha, lay the basis of love and amity, raise
the melody of affinity, and the oneness of the Kingdom of humanity; transmute
tyranny and persecution into love and faithfulness, efface the traces of
bloodshed and carnage; construct the edifice of reconciliation, dispel the
darkness of estrangement, diffuse the light of unity; change the poison of
animosity into the honey of sympathetic affection; destroy the religious,
national and social prejudices from the individuals of humanity; live and act,
with and toward each other as though they were from one race, one country, one
religion, and one kind.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (From a Tablet, Star of the West, vol. 2, no. 6, June 24, 1911)
October 16, 2015
“two defining processes that unfolded during the twentieth century”
We are pleased to
inform you that a Persian translation of "Century of Light", entitled
"Qarn-i-Anvár", has been published at the request of the Universal
House of Justice. As you kmow, this document, primarily a resource for Bahá'í
study and deepening, provides a perspective on two defining processes that
unfolded during the twentieth century: on the one hand, the sequence of events
that made the unification of humanity the feature of modem history and, on the
other, the emergence from obscurity of the Cause of God and its Administrative
Order. The House of Justice is delighted that this book, rendered in Persian, will
now be accessible to the Persian-speaking friends.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated 28 April 2002 written on
behalf of the Universal House of Justice to all National Spiritual Assemblies)
October 14, 2015
Seat of the Universal House of Justice
October 12, 2015
“avoiding the tendency to divide the believers into categories such as deepened and uninformed.” – we are all “treading a common path of service”
Passivity is bred by the forces of society today. A desire
to be entertained is nurtured from childhood, with increasing efficiency,
cultivating generations willing to be led by whoever proves skilful at
appealing to superficial emotions. Even in many educational systems students
are treated as though they were receptacles designed to receive information.
That the Bahá’í world has succeeded in developing a culture which promotes a
way of thinking, studying, and acting, in which all consider themselves as
treading a common path of service—supporting one another and advancing
together, respectful of the knowledge that each one possesses at any given
moment and avoiding the tendency to divide the believers into categories such
as deepened and uninformed—is an accomplishment of enormous proportions. And
therein lie the dynamics of an irrepressible movement.
- The Universal House of
Justice (Ridvan 2010)
October 10, 2015
An astounding principle in the universe: "every created thing" is "endowed" by God with a unique "capacity"
God in His bounty has endowed every created thing, however
humble, "with the capacity to exercise a particular influence, and been
made to possess a distinct virtue."[1]
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated 14 March 1985
written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer; ‘Messages
from the Universal House of Justice 1963-1986’)
[1] Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah
October 8, 2015
Local Spiritual Assembly is “a channel of God's grace not only for the Bahá'ís but for the entire village, town or city in which it serves.”
 |
First all Native American Local Spiritual
Assembly Omaha Nation
Macy Nebraska 1948
|
- The Universal House of
Justice (From a message addressed to the Conference of the Continental Boards of Counsellors, December
26, 1995)
October 7, 2015
How to deal with anger - - Guidance from the Universal House of Justice
You ask how to deal with anger. The House of Justice
suggests that you call to mind the admonitions found in our Writings on the
need to overlook the shortcomings of others; to forgive and conceal their
misdeeds, not to expose their bad qualities, but to search for and affirm their
praiseworthy ones, and to endeavour to be always forbearing, patient, and
merciful. Such passages as the following extracts from letters written on
behalf of the beloved Guardian will be helpful:
There are qualities in everyone which we can appreciate and
admire, and for which we can love them; and perhaps, if you determine to think
only of these qualities which your husband possesses, this will help to improve
the situation… You should turn your thoughts away from the things which upset
you, and constantly pray to Bahá'u'lláh to help you. Then you will find how
that pure love, enkindled by God, which burns in the soul when we read and
study the Teachings, will warm and heal, more than anything else. Each of us is
responsible for one life only, and that is our own. Each of us is immeasurably
far from being perfect as our heavenly father is perfect" and the task of
perfecting our own life and character is one that requires all our attention,
our will-power and energy...
- The Universal House of Justice (From a letter dated 17 July 1979 written on
behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer; The
Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, Preserving Baha’i Marriages)
October 5, 2015
Expanding our appreciation of what constitutes a deepening activity -- those in which “study and service are joined and carried out concurrently”
To read the writings of the Faith and to strive to obtain a
more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s stupendous
Revelation are obligations laid on every one of His followers. All are enjoined
to delve into the ocean of His Revelation and to partake, in keeping with their
capacities and inclinations, of the pearls of wisdom that lie therein. In this
light, local deepening classes, winter and summer schools, and specially
arranged gatherings in which individual believers knowledgeable in the writings
were able to share with others insights into specific subjects emerged
naturally as prominent features of Bahá’í life. Just as the habit of daily reading
will remain an integral part of Bahá’í identity, so will these forms of study
continue to hold a place in the collective life of the community. But
understanding the implications of the Revelation, both in terms of individual
growth and social progress, increases manifold when study and service are
joined and carried out concurrently. There, in the field of service, knowledge
is tested, questions arise out of practice, and new levels of understanding are
achieved. In the system of distance education that has now been established in
country after country—the principal elements of which include the study circle,
the tutor and the curriculum of the Ruhi Institute—the worldwide Bahá’í
community has acquired the capacity to enable thousands, nay millions, to study
the writings in small groups with the explicit purpose of translating the
Bahá’í teachings into reality, carrying the work of the Faith forward into its
next stage: sustained large-scale expansion and consolidation.
- The Universal
House of Justice (Ridvan 2010)
October 4, 2015
A dance about equality of the sexes - by Malaysian Baha'i youth
(The Baha'i World 2000-2001)
October 2, 2015
The “demarcation line between the shadow and the light” -- “the inner reality of man”
…the inner reality of man is a demarcation line between the
shadow and the light, a place where the two seas meet; [1] it is the lowest point
on the arc of descent, and therefore is it capable of gaining all the grades
above. With education it can achieve all excellence; devoid of education it
will stay on, at the lowest point of imperfection.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘Selections
from the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá’)
[1] Qur'án 25:55, 35:13, 55:19-25
October 1, 2015
Wisdom of encountering dire difficulties in the path of God
How numerous the souls raised to life who were exposed to
dire humiliation in Thy Path for exalting Thy Word and for glorifying Thy
divine Unity! How profuse the blood that hath been shed for the sake of Thy
Faith to vindicate the authenticity of Thy divine Mission and to celebrate Thy
praise! How vast the possessions that were wrongfully seized in the Path of Thy
love in order to affirm the loftiness of Thy sanctity and to extol Thy glorious
Name! How many the feet that have trodden upon the dust in order to magnify Thy
holy Word and to extol Thy glory! How innumerable the voices that were raised
in lamentation, the hearts that were struck with terror, the grievous woes that
none other than Thee can reckon, and the adversities and afflictions that
remain inscrutable to anyone except Thyself; all this to establish, O my God,
the loftiness of Thy sanctity and to demonstrate the transcendent character of
Thy glory.
These decrees were ordained by Thee so that all created
things might bear witness that they have been brought into being for the sake
of naught else but Thee. Thou hast withheld from them the things that bring
tranquillity to their hearts, that they might know of a certainty that whatever
is associated with Thy holy Being is far superior to and exalted above aught
else that would satisfy them; inasmuch as Thine indomitable power pervadeth all
things, and nothing can ever frustrate it.
Indeed Thou hast caused these momentous happenings to come
to pass that those who are endued with perception may readily recognize that
they were ordained by Thee to demonstrate the loftiness of Thy divine Unity and
to affirm the exaltation of Thy sanctity.
- The Báb (Selections from the
Writings of the Báb)
September 30, 2015
Prayer Christ said while on the cross
- Jesus Christ (Quoted
by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in 'Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu'l-Baha')
September 28, 2015
The “object of life to a Baha'i is to promote the oneness of mankind”
The object of life to a Baha'i is to promote the oneness of
mankind; Our aim is to produce a world civilization which in turn will
react on the character of the individual.
- Shoghi Effendi (Remarks by Shoghi Effendi, recorded by
Ruhiyyih Khanum, ‘The Priceless Pearl’)
Ruhiyyih Khanum:
I remember in the course
of a conversation Shoghi Effendi had with a former teacher of his at the American University in Beirut,
how beautifully he answered this man's
question as to what was the purpose of life to a Bahá'í. The Guardian answered
that the object of life to a Bahá'í was to promote the oneness of mankind. He
then went on to point out that Bahá'u'lláh had appeared at a time when His
Message could and should be directed to the whole world and not merely to
individuals; that salvation today was through world salvation, world change,
world reform of society and that the world civilization resulting from this
would in turn reflect upon the individuals composing it and lead to their
redemption and reformation.
Over and over Shoghi Effendi made it clear in his writings
and talks that the two processes must go on together -- reform of society, reform
of personal character. There was never any doubt that individual regeneration,
as he wrote to a non-Bahá'í in 1926, was the "sure and enduring foundation
on which a reconstructed society" would develop and prosper. But how could
one create a pattern for future society,
even a tiny embryo of the future World Commonwealth of Bahá'u'lláh, if all
around its fringes it was still interwoven with the fabric of that society
which was dying out, must die out, to make way for the new?
- Ruhiyyih Khanum (‘The Guardian of the Baha'i Faith’)
September 26, 2015
January 2001: The new International Teaching Centre, Haifa, Israel
September 23, 2015
How to create a “culture” in which “teaching is the dominating passion of the lives of the believers”
When training and encouragement are effective, a culture of
growth is nourished in which the believers see their duty to teach as a natural
consequence of having accepted Baha'u'llah. They "raise high the sacred
torch of faith," as was 'Abdu'l-Baha's wish, "labour ceaselessly, by
day and by night," and "consecrate every fleeting moment of their
lives to the diffusion of the divine fragrance and the exaltation of God's holy
Word." So enkindled do their hearts become with the fire of the love of
God that whoever approaches them feels its warmth. They strive to be channels
of the spirit, pure of heart, selfless and humble, possessing certitude and the
courage that stems from reliance on God. In such a culture, teaching is the
dominating passion of the lives of the believers. Fear of failure finds no
place. Mutual support, commitment to learning, and appreciation of diversity of
action are the prevailing norms.
- The Universal House of Justice (From a
message dated January 9, 2001, addressed to the Continental Boards of
Counsellors)
September 22, 2015
What qualities must one gain through tests to be considered a “chosen one” or “first fruit”?
In this day everyone must be tested, as the time of the
''chosen ones" to prove their worth is indeed very short. The day of
attainment is drawing to a close for them. The "first fruits" must be
ripened in spirit, mellowed in love, and consumed by their self-sacrifice and
severance. None other are acceptable as first fruits, and all who fail to
attain to the standard through the tests, are relegated to the "many who
are called."
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of ‘Abdu'l-Baha in answer to questions asked by Dr.
Edward C. Getsinger during a few brief meetings at Haifa, January 26 to
February 5, 1915, and recorded by Dr. Getsinger at the time; Star of the West,
vol. 6, no. 6, June 24, 1915)
September 20, 2015
'Abdu'l-Baha explains what to do when: “one is in the right in a case in dispute, and his minority prevents him from establishing this rightful matter”
Blessed are they who are the means of making unity among the
friends, and pity on those who in the right or wrong are the cause of discord.
For instance: When one is in the right in a case in dispute, and his minority
prevents him from establishing this rightful matter, instead of agitating the
subject, if he will humbly submit to sacrifice his position for the sake of
unity and peace, God will accept that sacrifice and ere long the rightful
matter will be established without any farther dispute, by the Divine
assistance; whereas without such sacrifice and submissiveness great harm might
ensue.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Words of Abdu'l-Baha in answer to questions asked by Dr. Edward C.
Getsinger during a few brief meetings at Haifa, January 26 to February 5, 1915,
and recorded by Dr. Getsinger at the time; Star of the West, vol. 6, no. 6,
June 24, 1915)
September 18, 2015
The mystical reality of the Manifestation of God
Magnified be Thy name, O Lord my God! I know not what the
water is with which Thou hast created me, or what the fire Thou hast kindled
within me, or the clay wherewith Thou hast kneaded me. The restlessness of
every sea hath been stilled, but not the restlessness of this Ocean which
moveth at the bidding of the winds of Thy will. The flame of every fire hath
been extinguished except the Flame which the hands of Thine omnipotence have
kindled, and whose radiance Thou hast, by the power of Thy name, shed abroad
before all that are in Thy heaven and all that are on Thy earth. As the
tribulations deepen, it waxeth hotter and hotter.
Behold, then, O my God, how Thy Light hath been compassed
with the onrushing winds of Thy decree, how the tempests that blow and beat
upon it from every side have added to its brightness and increased its
splendor. For all this let Thee be praised.
- Baha’u’llah (‘Prayers and
Meditations by Baha’u’llah’)
September 15, 2015
Human “mind… has no place, although it is connected with the brain.”
Where then can one find in man this mind that resides in him
and whose existence is beyond doubt? Were you to examine the human body with
the eye, the ear, or the other senses, you would fail to find it, even though
it clearly exists. The mind, therefore, has no place, although it is connected
with the brain.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (Table talks in Akka, authenticated by
‘Abdu’l-Baha; ‘Some Answered Questions’ – 2014 revised translation by the
Baha’i World Center)
September 12, 2015
Conduct of the believers in meetings
The believers of God must assemble and associate with each
other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in
the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses,
peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha, encourage and
inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect
joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the
Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (From a
Tablet; Star of the
West, vol. 2, no. 6, June 24, 1911)
September 8, 2015
The Universal House of Justice explains the "continual aim" of these Baha'i institutions - the summer schools, training institutes, Nineteen Day Feasts and the National Conventions
The continual aim of the institutions of the Bahá’í
community—whether it be through the operation of summer schools and training
institutes, through the development of the Nineteen Day Feasts and National
Conventions, or through day-to-day interaction among the friends—is to empower the
individual believers so that they will learn how to live their lives with
increasing knowledge, wisdom, unity and fruitfulness in conformity with the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh.
- The Universal House of Justice (From
a letter dated 18 July 2000 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice
to an individual believer)
September 3, 2015
A “significant enhancement in patterns of behavior” is needed at “the local level” – The Universal House of Justice explains
...the flourishing of the community, especially at the local
level, demands a significant enhancement in patterns of behaviour: those
patterns by which the collective expression of the virtues of the individual
members and the functioning of the Spiritual Assembly are manifest in the unity
and fellowship of the community and the dynamism of its activity and growth.
This calls for the integration of the component elements—adults, youth and
children—in spiritual, social, educational and administrative activities; and
their engagement in local plans of teaching and development. It implies a
collective will and sense of purpose to perpetuate the Spiritual Assembly
through annual elections. It involves the practice of collective worship of
God. Hence, it is essential to the spiritual life of the community that the
friends hold regular devotional meetings in local Bahá'í centres, where
available, or elsewhere, including the homes of believers.
- The Universal House
of Justice (Ridvan 1996 message; compilation: ‘Selected
Guidance Concerning Devotional Gatherings’, prepared by the Research Department
of the Universal House of Justice, 2001)
August 27, 2015
Conduct of Spiritual Assembly members
But regarding teaching the Truth: One must teach with
wisdom, amiability, good-naturedness and kindness. And should anyone
circumscribe conditions (for teaching the Truth) it will become rare.
But concerning the established (organized assemblies),
altogether outside conversation must not be introduced therein. Nay, rather,
conversation must be limited to the reading of verses, the perusing of Words
and affairs which pertain to the Cause of God, such as explaining proofs and
evidences, delivering clear and irrefutable arguments and announcing the signs
of the Beloved of the creatures.
Those souls who are in that assembly before their entrance
therein must be adorned with utmost purity, turn their faces toward the Kingdom
of Abha and enter with infinite humility and meekness, and when someone reads
Tablets they must be silent and attentive.
Should anyone desire to speak, he must do it with the utmost courtesy
and with perfect eloquence and fluency by the consent and permission of the
people of the assembly.
Upon thee be greeting and praise!
(Signed) 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas
(Star
of the West, vol. 2, no. 6, June 24, 1911)
August 26, 2015
Teachings and Instructions of Baha’u’llah – a summary by ‘Abdu’l-Baha
Thou hast inquired regarding the teachings and instructions
of Baha'u'llah! Thou must instruct the people of the world in the Love of God,
that they may eradicate the foundation of warfare and strife, be attracted by
the Glad-tidings of the kingdom of Abha, lay the basis of love and amity, raise
the melody of affinity, and the oneness of the Kingdom of humanity; transmute
tyranny and persecution into love and faithfulness, efface the traces of
bloodshed and carnage; construct the edifice of reconciliation, dispel the
darkness of estrangement, diffuse the light of unity; change the poison of
animosity into the honey of sympathetic affection; destroy the religious,
national and social prejudices from the individuals of humanity; live and act,
with and toward each other as though they were from one race, one country, one
religion, and one kind.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas (Star
of the West, vol. 2, no. 6, June 24, 1911)
August 24, 2015
The “divine perfections are manifested and reflected” in “the most perfect being” --> “the Divine Manifestations of God”
Man… on the
plane of the contingent world is the most perfect being. By man is meant the
perfect individual, who is like unto a mirror in which the divine perfections
are manifested and reflected. But the sun doth not descend from the height of
its sanctity to enter into the mirror, but when the latter is purified and
turned towards the Sun of Truth, the perfections of this Sun, consisting of
light and heat, are reflected and manifested in that mirror. These souls are
the Divine Manifestations of God.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’)
August 20, 2015
There are “stages of mortality” in the world of existence
In the world of existence—that which is comprehensible—there
are stages of mortality: the first stage is the mineral world, next is the
vegetable world. In the latter world the mineral doth exist but with a
distinctive feature which is the vegetable characteristic. Likewise in the
animal world, the mineral and vegetable characteristics are present and in
addition the characteristics of the animal world are to be found, which are the
faculties of hearing and of sight. In the human world the characteristics of
the mineral, vegetable and animal worlds are found and in addition that of the
human kind, namely the intellectual characteristic, which discovereth the
realities of things and comprehendeth universal principles.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’)
August 18, 2015
The Seat of the Universal House of Justice – “a visible expression of the majesty of the divinely ordained institutions of the Administrative Order of Bahá'u'lláh”
…a building that will not only serve the practical needs of
a steadily consolidating administrative centre but will, for centuries to come,
stand as a visible expression of the majesty of the divinely ordained
institutions of the Administrative Order of Bahá'u'lláh.
- The Universal House
of Justice (From a message dated 5 June, 1975; Messages from the Universal House of Justice,
1963-1986’)
August 16, 2015
“Existence is of two kinds: one is the existence of God… The second kind of existence is the human existence.”
Existence is of two kinds: one is the existence of God which
is beyond the comprehension of man. He, the invisible, the lofty and the
incomprehensible, is preceded by no cause but rather is the Originator of the
cause of causes. He, the Ancient, hath had no beginning and is the
all-independent. The second kind of existence is the human existence. It is a
common existence, comprehensible to the human mind, is not ancient, is
dependent and hath a cause to it. The mortal substance does not become eternal
and vice versa; the human kind does not become a Creator and vice versa. The
transformation of the innate substance is impossible.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’)
August 14, 2015
International Deputization Fund
We renew our plea to individual believers, as well as to
National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, to give generous support to the
International Deputization Fund, which will not only be an essential factor in
the speedy settlement of this urgently needed army of pioneers, but will also stimulate
and assist the flow of travelling teachers, whose labours will provide strong
reinforcement to the work of the followers of Bahá'u'lláh in all parts of the
world.
-The Universal House of Justice (From a message dated 13
January 1975 to the Baha’is of the World; ‘Messages from the Universal House of
Justice 1963-1986’)
August 12, 2015
Democratic principles embedded in the Baha’i system versus those exhibited in modern democracies – an explanation by the Universal House of Justice
In general one can say that modern
democracies have been established as the outcome of attempts to limit the power
of absolute monarchy, of dictatorships, or of certain dominant classes. This
may have come about gradually through the centuries, or tumultuously by a
series of revolutions. Thus, even when democratic constitutions and
structures have been established, there remains a suspicion of authority as
such, and a tension between the degree of freedom accorded to individual
citizens and the imposition of sufficient public discipline to protect the weak
against the selfish pursuits of the strong among the citizenry. The operation
of transparency, accountability, freedom of the press and critical dialogue is
thus imbued with a spirit of partisanship that easily descends into the
merciless invasion of personal privacy, the dissemination of calumny, the
exaggeration of mistrust, and the misuse of the news media at the hands of
vested interests. The reaction of those who attempt to protect themselves
against such distortions of the system produces secretiveness, concealment of
uncomfortable facts, and reciprocal misuse of the media—in all, a perpetuation
of disharmony in the social fabric.
August 10, 2015
The association of the resting-places of the Greatest Holy Leaf, the Purest Branch and Navvab with the “emergence… of some of the brightest gems of Baha’u’llah’s World Order”
“For it must be clearly understood, nor can it be
sufficiently emphasized, that the conjunction of the resting-place of the
Greatest Holy Leaf with those of her brother and mother incalculably reinforces
the spiritual potencies of that consecrated Spot which, under the wings of the
Báb's overshadowing Sepulchre, and in the vicinity of the future
Mashriqu'l-Adhkar which will be reared on its flank, is destined to evolve into
the focal centre of those world-shaking, world-embracing, world-directing
administrative institutions, ordained by Bahá'u'lláh and anticipated by
'Abdu'l-Bahá, and which are to function in consonance with the principles that
govern the twin institutions of the Guardianship and the Universal House of
Justice. Then, and then only, will this momentous prophecy which illuminates
the concluding passages of the Tablet of Carmel be fulfilled: ‘Erelong will God
sail His Ark upon thee (Carmel), and will manifest the people of Baha who have
been mentioned in the Book of Names.’”
“To attempt to visualize, even in its barest outline, the
glory that must envelop these institutions, to essay even a tentative and
partial description of their character or the manner of their operation, or to
trace however inadequately the course of events leading to their rise and
eventual establishment is far beyond my own capacity and power. Suffice it to
say that at this troubled stage in world history the association of these three
incomparably precious souls who, next to the three Central Figures of our
Faith, tower in rank above the vast multitude of the heroes, Letters, martyrs,
hands, teachers and administrators of the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh, in such a
potentially powerful spiritual and administrative Centre, is in itself an event
which will release forces that are bound to hasten the emergence in a land
which, geographically, spiritually and administratively, constitutes the heart
of the entire planet, of some of the brightest gems of that World Order now
shaping in the womb of this, travailing age.
- Shoghi Effendi (From a message
dated December 21, 1939; ‘Messages to America’)
August 7, 2015
An example of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s packed daily schedule while in USA in 1912
An example of a day’s diverse activities is April 23, in
Washington, D.C. ‘Abdu’l-Baha addressed a gathering of parents and children at
Studio Hall concerning the education of children; attended a reception in His
honor and addressed government officials and international representatives at
the home of the socially prominent Parsons family; spoke on the “nature of life
and death” in one of the ghetto areas of the city; and proceeded about 9:00
p.m. to address an audience of scientists and friends personally invited by
Alexander Graham Bell to his home, where, after speaking and answering
questions until midnight, ‘Abdu’l-Baha remained as a guest.
- Allan Ward (‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Speaking in America; World Order magazine, Winter, 1971-72)
August 5, 2015
We are “better known to the inmates of the Kingdom on high” than we are known to our own selves – Baha’u’llah affirms
I swear by Him Who hath caused Me to reveal whatever hath pleased
Him! Ye are better known to the inmates of the Kingdom on high than ye are
known to your own selves. Think ye these words to be vain and empty? Would that
ye had the power to perceive the things your Lord, the All-Merciful, doth
see—things that attest the excellence of your rank, that bear witness to the
greatness of your worth, that proclaim the sublimity of your station! God grant
that your desires and unmortified passions may not hinder you from that which
hath been ordained for you.
- Baha'u'llah (‘Gleanings from the Writings of
Baha'u'llah’)
August 3, 2015
Man “is not in need of meat, nor is he obliged to eat it”
Regarding the eating of animal flesh and abstinence therefrom,
know thou of a certainty that, in the beginning of creation, God determined the
food of every living being, and to eat contrary to that determination is not
approved. For instance, beasts of prey, such as the wolf, lion and leopard, are
endowed with ferocious, tearing instruments, such as hooked talons and claws.
From this it is evident that the food of such beasts is meat. If they were to
attempt to graze, their teeth would not cut the grass, neither could they chew
the cud, for they do not have molars. Likewise, God hath given to the
four-footed grazing animals such teeth as reap the grass like a sickle, and
from this we understand that the food of these species of animal is vegetable.
They cannot chase and hunt down other animals. The falcon hath a hooked beak
and sharp talons; the hooked beak preventeth him from grazing, therefore his
food also is meat.
August 1, 2015
Health and sickness are both contagious
…in reality both health and sickness are contagious. The
contagiousness of disease is rapid and violent, whereas that of health is
exceedingly slow and weak. If two bodies are brought into contact with each
other, it is certain that microbial particles will be transmitted from one to
the other. In the same way that disease is rapidly and violently transmitted
from one body to another, the strong health of a healthy person may also
alleviate a very slight condition in a sick person. Our meaning is that the
contagiousness of disease is rapid and violent, while that of health is very
slow and of limited effect, and it is only in minor ills that this modest
effect can be felt. In such cases, the strength of the healthy body overcomes
the slight weakness of the sick body and brings about its health. This is one
kind of healing.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (Table talks in Akka, authenticated by
‘Abdu’l-Baha; ‘Some Answered Questions’ – 2014 revised translation by the
Baha’i World Centre)
July 29, 2015
July 28, 2015
Why Baha’u’llah bore all the ordeals and calamities – ‘Abdu’l-Baha explains
…the Blessed Perfection bore all these ordeals and
calamities in order that our hearts might become enkindled and radiant, our
spirits be glorified, our faults become virtues, our ignorance be transformed
into knowledge; in order that we might attain the real fruits of humanity and
acquire heavenly graces; in order that, although pilgrims upon earth, we should
travel the road of the heavenly Kingdom, and, although needy and poor, we might
receive the treasures of eternal life. For this has He borne these difficulties
and sorrows.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a talk, New York, 18 April 1912; ‘The
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l-Bahá during His
Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912’)
July 27, 2015
The birth of Rúhu'lláh Varqa and Tablets from Baha’u’llah - by Martha Root
Alí Muhammad
Varqá [who was later designated as one of the Apostles of
Baha’u’llah] was an ardent Bahá'í of Tabríz, Persia, in the days
when Bahá'u'lláh was a Prisoner in 'Akká, Palestine from 1868 until His passing
in 1892. He was exiled and imprisoned because His Teachings which are now being
studied by some rulers, many statesmen and millions of other people, were, like
those of other World Teachers, very far ahead of His time.
To begin at the beginning, 'Alí Muhammad
Varqá had one son, 'Azízu'lláh, two years old, when one day in April
another little son was born in his home, and he and his wife named the child Rúhu'lláh
which means "the Spirit of God".
There was glad rejoicing when Bahá'u'lláh from 'Akká sent
these parents a Tablet (a letter) about this new babe and in it the reader with
insight will discern the introduction to this thrilling story which follows.
Bahá'u'lláh wrote:
"O Varqá! It is for thee to chant in both ears of this
little one three times:
"Verily, thou hast come by the Command of God! Thou
hast appeared to speak of Him, and thou hast been created to serve Him Who is
the Dear, the Beloved!"
July 26, 2015
July 23, 2015
How to increase “one's ability and capacity” -- 'Abdu'l-Baha explains
During thy supplications to God and thy reciting, “Thy Name
is my healing," consider how thine heart is cheered, thy soul delighted by
the spirit of the love of God, and thy mind attracted to the Kingdom of God! By
these attractions one's ability and capacity increase. When the vessel is
enlarged the water increases, and when the thirst grows the bounty of the cloud
becomes agreeable to the taste of man. This is the mystery of supplication and
the wisdom of stating one's wants.
- 'Abdu'l-Baha (Quoted by J.E. Esslemont in
‘Bahá'u'lláh and the New Era’; The Compilation of Compilations, Vol. II, The
Importance of Prayer, Meditation and the Devotional Attitude)
July 21, 2015
The “most beloved and acceptable deed” in the presence of Baha'u'llah
Today the most beloved and acceptable deed before His
Highness, Bahá'u'lláh, is the union of the friends and the concord of men, and
the most unacceptable is difference and disharmony.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (From a Tablet, Star of the West, vol.
2, no. 5, June 5, 1911)
July 19, 2015
The Badi Calendar -- its basic features and adoption by the Universal House of Justice the provisions uniting East and West
Prepared by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United kingdom
The three parts together is also available at these sites:
Part 1:
Part 2:
Part 3:
The three parts together is also available at these sites:
July 18, 2015
1898: A group of early Baha'is in New York City
July 13, 2015
A Tablet from Baha’u’llah “which causeth the souls of men to soar”
Baha’u’llah identifies this Tablet as “a door to the mercy
of thy Lord.”
We are called upon to “Commit it to memory, and recite it.”
We are called upon to “Commit it to memory, and recite it.”
July 9, 2015
Similarities between Jesus Christ and the Báb
The passion of Jesus Christ, and indeed His whole public
ministry, alone offer a parallel to the Mission and death of the Báb, a
parallel which no student of comparative religion can fail to perceive or
ignore. In the youthfulness and meekness of the Inaugurator of the Bábí Dispensation;
in the extreme brevity and turbulence of His public ministry; in the dramatic
swiftness with which that ministry moved towards its climax; in the apostolic
order which He instituted, and the primacy which He conferred on one of its
members; in the boldness of His challenge to the time-honored conventions,
rites and laws which had been woven into the fabric of the religion He Himself
had been born into; in the rôle which an officially recognized and firmly
entrenched religious hierarchy played as chief instigator of the outrages which
He was made to suffer; in the indignities heaped upon Him; in the suddenness of His arrest; in the interrogation to which He
was subjected; in the derision poured, and the scourging inflicted, upon Him;
in the public affront He sustained; and, finally, in His ignominious suspension
before the gaze of a hostile multitude—in all these we cannot fail to discern a
remarkable similarity to the distinguishing features of the career of Jesus
Christ.
- Shoghi Effendi (‘God Passes By)
July 5, 2015
“fundamental aspects of Baha’i community life intended for all” = “acts of service”
- Teaching the Faith
- Initiating Children’s Classes,
- Initiating Junior Youth Groups
- Initiating Study Circles
- Hosting Devotional Gatherings
- Undertaking Home Visits
(Adapted from a message dated 5 January 2015 written on
behalf of the Universal House of Justice to American National Spiritual Assembly)
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