Kamál, 06 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.
Reflections on the Life of the Spirit
Quote for Reflection:
PRAISE be to God, thy heart is engaged in the commemoration of God, thy soul is gladdened by the glad tidings of God and thou art absorbed in prayer. The state of prayer is the best of conditions, for man is then associating with God. Prayer verily bestoweth life, particularly when offered in private and at times, such as midnight, when freed from daily cares. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Question for Consideration:
What does the phrase “commemoration of God” mean? 2
Google Bard Response:
The phrase “commemoration of God” (also known as dhikr in Sufism) has many meanings and interpretations in different religions and spiritual traditions. In general, it refers to the practice of keeping God in mind and heart and being mindful of His presence in all things.
In the context of the quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the phrase “commemoration of God” can be understood to mean the following:
- Remembering God’s attributes and perfections. This can be done through prayer, meditation, or simply reflecting on the wonders of creation.
- Being grateful for God’s blessings. This can include the blessings of material wealth, health, and good relationships, as well as the spiritual blessings of faith, guidance, and love.
- Trusting in God’s will and providence. This means knowing that God is always with us and that He will guide us through all of the challenges and opportunities of life.
- Living by God’s teachings. This means striving to be kind, compassionate, and just in all of our dealings with others.
The “commemoration of God” is a powerful spiritual practice that can help us to deepen our relationship with God, to find peace and contentment, and to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
In the Bahá’í Faith, the commemoration of God is seen as an essential part of a spiritual life. It is a way of connecting with God and receiving His guidance and inspiration. Bahá’ís are encouraged to commemorate God throughout the day and to make time for prayer and meditation each day.
Here are some specific examples of how we can practice the “commemoration of God”:
- Praying regularly. Prayer is a direct way of communicating with God and expressing our love and devotion to Him.
- Reading and reflecting on sacred texts. The Bahá’í Writings, the Quran, the Bible, and other sacred texts are full of wisdom and guidance that can help us to grow in our understanding of God and His ways.
- Meditating on God’s attributes and perfections. We can take some time each day to sit quietly and reflect on God’s love, mercy, wisdom, and power.
- Being mindful of God’s presence in all things. When we are going about our daily activities, we can try to keep God in mind and be grateful for His blessings.
- Living by God’s teachings. We can try to be kind, compassionate, and just in all of our dealings with others.
The “commemoration of God” is a journey, not a destination. It is a practice that we can deepen and refine throughout our lives. As we become more and more mindful of God’s presence and love, we will experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment.
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 202. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/7#703369143 ↩
- 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, 17. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 