Fidál, 14 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.
Reflections on the Life of the Spirit
Quote for Reflection:
O ye loved ones of God! The news was received that a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár hath been established, that in that land the praise and glorification of God hath reached the Kingdom of Glory and the melodies of worship and praise of that glorious Beloved have ascended to the Concourse on high. What boundless joy and delight were produced by these glad-tidings, inasmuch as the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár causeth the friends to be awakened, to remember God, and to be in a state of humble prayer. The Mashriqu’l-Adhkár causeth hearts to be illumined, souls to become spiritual, and the fragrances of the Kingdom of Glory to be inhaled. The world of humanity is thereby transformed into another world, and the susceptibilities of the heart are heightened to such a degree that they encompass the entire creation. My hope is that a Mashriqu’l-Adhkár be established in every quarter and in each corner of the country, even if this be done with the utmost discretion and circumspection, and, for prudence’s sake, be confined to chosen and trusted friends among the loved ones of God, until such time as the spread of its fame may not arouse dismay and turmoil among the heedless. — Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Question for Consideration:
What does the phrase “state of prayer” mean? 2
Google Bard Response:
The phrase “state of prayer” refers to a state of being in which one is constantly aware of God and is constantly communicating with Him through prayer. It is a state of deep humility, devotion, and love.
In the passage from Abdu’l-Bahá that you quoted, He says that the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár, or House of Worship, causes the friends to be awakened, to remember God, and to be in a state of humble prayer. This means that the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár helps people to become more aware of God and to develop a deeper relationship with Him.
The state of prayer is not just about saying words. It is about opening one’s heart and mind to God and letting His love and guidance flow through one. It is about being constantly in touch with God and living one’s life in accordance with His will.
Here are some of the characteristics of the state of prayer:
- Awareness of God: The first characteristic of the state of prayer is awareness of God. This means being constantly aware of God’s presence in one’s life and being grateful for His blessings.
- Communication with God: The state of prayer is also characterized by communication with God. This communication can take many forms, such as silent prayer, vocal prayer, and meditation.
- Humility: The state of prayer is also characterized by humility. This means recognizing one’s own weaknesses and shortcomings and relying on God for strength and guidance.
- Devotion: The state of prayer is also characterized by devotion to God. This means loving God with all one’s heart, mind, and soul.
- Love: The state of prayer is also characterized by love. This means loving God and loving all of God’s creation.
If you want to experience the state of prayer, I encourage you to make prayer a regular part of your life. Pray every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. When you pray, be open and honest with God about your thoughts, feelings, and needs. And don’t be afraid to ask for His help.
The state of prayer is a gift from God. It is a way for us to connect with Him and receive His love and guidance. When we are in a state of prayer, we are transformed from within and we are able to live more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
- Bahá’u’lláh, ’Abdu’l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and Universal House of Justice. The Institution of the Mas͟hriqu’l-Ad͟hkár. Edited by Research Department of the Universal House of Justice, 2017. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/institution-mashriqul-adhkar/9#995423859. ↩
- 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, 19. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 