Ídál, 01 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.
Reflections on the Life of the Spirit
Quote for Reflection:
We have counselled all people, in the most clear and eloquent language, to adorn their characters with trustworthiness and godliness, and with such qualities as are conducive to the elevation of man’s station in the world of being. This Wronged One testifieth that the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony. Dissension and strife have always been, and shall remain, rejected by God. The Books, the Scriptures and Holy Writings of previous ages have all proclaimed the joyful tidings that the purpose underlying this most mighty Revelation is none other than the rehabilitation of the world and its nations; that perchance the power of utterance may prevail over the power of arms, and the world’s affairs be administered through the potency of love. We ask God, the True One, to invest all with the mantle of trustworthiness, for that is the world’s comeliest garment. — Bahá’u’lláh 1
Question for Consideration:
For what purpose have we stepped from utter nothingness into the realm of being? 2
Google Bard Response:
According to the quote you provided, the purpose for which we have stepped from utter nothingness into the realm of being is to “work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony.”
This means that we are not here simply to live our own lives and pursue our own interests. We are here to make the world a better place for everyone. We can do this by living virtuous lives, being kind and compassionate to others, and working to promote peace and understanding.
The quote also mentions that “the power of utterance may prevail over the power of arms.” This means that we should use our words and our actions to build bridges between people and to resolve conflicts peacefully.
Finally, the quote asks God to “invest all with the mantle of trustworthiness.” Trustworthiness is an essential quality for building a better world. When we are trustworthy, we can build strong relationships with others and we can work together to achieve common goals.
In short, the purpose for which we have stepped from utter nothingness into the realm of being is to make the world a better place. We can do this by living virtuous lives, being kind and compassionate to others, working to promote peace and understanding, and being trustworthy.
Here are some specific ways that we can work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony:
- Be kind and compassionate to others. This includes being respectful of everyone, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. It also includes being helpful and supportive to those in need.
- Stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult. This includes speaking out against injustice and oppression. It also includes defending the rights of others, even when it is unpopular to do so.
- Work to promote peace and understanding between people of different cultures and backgrounds. This includes learning about other cultures and religions and building relationships with people from different backgrounds.
- Volunteer your time and talents to help others. There are many ways to get involved in your community, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen, tutoring a child, or helping out at a local animal shelter.
- Donate to charities and organizations that are working to make the world a better place. There are many charities and organizations that are working to address a wide range of social and environmental problems.
By working for the betterment of the world and living together in concord and harmony, we can create a brighter future for all.
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. Trustworthiness: A Cardinal Bahá’í Virtue. Bahá’í Reference Library, August 1990. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/trustworthiness/2#363538019. ↩
- Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 15. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 