Istiqlál, 04 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.
Reflections on the Life of the Spirit
Quote for Reflection:
The people of Bahá, who are the inmates of the Ark of God, are, one and all, well aware of one another’s state and condition, and are united in the bonds of intimacy and fellowship. Such a state, however, must depend upon their faith and their conduct. They that are of the same grade and station are fully aware of one another’s capacity, character, accomplishments and merits. They that are of a lower grade, however, are incapable of comprehending adequately the station, or of estimating the merits, of those that rank above them. Each shall receive his share from thy Lord. Blessed is the man that hath turned his face towards God, and walked steadfastly in His love, until his soul hath winged its flight unto God, the Sovereign Lord of all, the Most Powerful, the Ever-Forgiving, the All-Merciful. — Bahá’u’lláh 1
Questions for Consideration:
On what will differences and distinctions among souls in the next world depend?
Will anyone be deprived of God’s grace? 2
Google Bard Response:
Based on the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, the differences and distinctions among souls in the next world will depend primarily on two factors:
Faith and Conduct: The quote emphasizes that the awareness and understanding of each other’s state and condition are directly linked to one’s faith and conduct. Those who adhere firmly to the principles of Bahá’u’lláh and live righteous lives will possess a higher level of spiritual understanding and be able to recognize and appreciate the merits of others who are at a similar level.
Spiritual Development: The quote suggests a hierarchical structure in the afterlife, where souls at higher levels have a deeper understanding and appreciation of those below them, while those at lower levels may not fully grasp the accomplishments and merits of those above. This indicates that spiritual growth and development continue even in the next world, and one’s position is determined by their progress on the spiritual path.
Regarding the question of God’s grace: The quote explicitly states, “Each shall receive his share from thy Lord.” This suggests that regardless of their position in the next world, everyone will receive some degree of God’s grace and blessings. However, the nature and extent of this grace may differ depending on one’s level of faith, conduct, and spiritual development.
Therefore, while the quote acknowledges differences and distinctions among souls in the next world, it ultimately emphasizes the universality of God’s grace and the potential for continued spiritual growth. It encourages individuals to strive towards a life of faith and righteousness to reach higher levels of understanding and connection, both with others and with God.
It’s important to remember that the nature of the afterlife remains a mystery, and interpretations of these kinds of passages can vary. The quote provides a glimpse into a possible experience, but it’s crucial to approach it with humility and respect for the unknown.
- Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 14, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/5#469288886. ↩
- 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, 50. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 