Daily Frameworks for 06 January 2024

Jalál, 07 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

The divine religions of the holy Manifestations of God are in reality one, though in name and nomenclature they differ. Man must be a lover of the light, no matter from what dayspring it may appear. He must be a lover of the rose, no matter in what soil it may be growing. He must be a seeker of the truth, no matter from what source it come. Attachment to the lantern is not loving the light. Attachment to the earth is not befitting, but enjoyment of the rose which develops from the soil is worthy. Devotion to the tree is profitless, but partaking of the fruit is beneficial. Luscious fruits, no matter upon what tree they grow or where they may be found, must be enjoyed. The word of truth, no matter which tongue utters it, must be sanctioned. Absolute verities, no matter in what book they be recorded, must be accepted. If we harbor prejudice, it will be the cause of deprivation and ignorance. The strife between religions, nations and races arises from misunderstanding. If we investigate the religions to discover the principles underlying their foundations, we will find they agree; for the fundamental reality of them is one and not multiple. By this means the religionists of the world will reach their point of unity and reconciliation. They will ascertain the truth that the purpose of religion is the acquisition of praiseworthy virtues, the betterment of morals, the spiritual development of mankind, the real life and divine bestowals. All the Prophets have been the promoters of these principles; none of Them has been the promoter of corruption, vice or evil. They have summoned mankind to all good. They have united people in the love of God, invited them to the religions of the unity of mankind and exhorted them to amity and agreement. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

How does the analogy of loving the light regardless of the lamp it shines in relate to seeking truth? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the analogy of loving the light regardless of the lamp in which it shines offers a powerful message about seeking truth:

The essence of the message:

• Focus on the truth (light) itself, not the vessel (lamp) it comes from. This applies to religious traditions, where the focus should be on the core spiritual truths and teachings, not the specific rituals, doctrines, or personalities associated with them.
• Embrace unity and inclusivity. By valuing the essence of truth wherever it may be found, regardless of its origin or packaging, we can overcome divisions and foster understanding across different religious viewpoints.
• Avoid clinging to superficial differences and fixations. Just as being attached to a particular lamp can prevent us from embracing the light in other vessels, clinging to dogmatic interpretations or sectarian beliefs can hinder our spiritual progress and open the door to conflict.
  

Applying the analogy to seeking truth:

• Be open to diverse perspectives and sources of wisdom. Look for truth beyond your familiar traditions and explore what other teachings and philosophies offer.
• Seek common ground and shared values. Focus on the universal principles of love, justice, compassion, and truth in many religious and spiritual paths.
• Engage in critical thinking and independent investigation. Don’t unquestioningly accept any doctrine or teaching, but use your reason and intuition to discern what resonates with you and aligns with your understanding of truth.
• Let go of preconceived notions and biases. Be willing to challenge your assumptions and beliefs when presented with new evidence or perspectives.
  

Challenges and limitations:

• Interpreting and appreciating “truth” can be subjective. While common ground exists, different individuals and communities may have diverse understandings of what constitutes truth.
• Completely detaching from any specific tradition or framework can be difficult. Our identities and sense of belonging often intertwine with specific faith groups or belief systems.
  

Overall, the analogy encourages us to be flexible, open-minded, and ever-evolving in our pursuit of truth. By appreciating the light wherever it shines, we can contribute to a more unified and harmonious world where humanity seeks and celebrates shared spiritual understanding.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 151-152. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/11#270449351. ↩
2. Ruhi Institute. Arising to Serve. 2.1.1.PE September 2020. Vol. Book 2. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2020, 20. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩