Daily Frameworks for 07 January 2024

Jamál, 08 Sharaf (Honor), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

Bahá’u’lláh teaches that the foundations of the divine religion are one reality which does not admit of multiplicity or division. Therefore, the commandments and teachings of God are one. The religious differences and divisions which exist in the world are due to blind imitations of forms without knowledge or investigation of the fundamental divine reality which underlies all the religions. Inasmuch as these imitations of ancestral forms are various, dissensions have arisen among the people of religion. Therefore, it is necessary to free mankind from this subjection to blind belief by pointing the way of guidance to reality itself, which is the only basis of unity.

Bahá’u’lláh says that religion must be conducive to love and unity. If it proves to be the source of hatred and enmity, its absence is preferable; for the will and law of God is love, and love is the bond between human hearts. Religion is the light of the world. If it is made the cause of darkness through human misunderstanding and ignorance, it would be better to do without it.

Religion must conform to science and reason; otherwise, it is superstition. God has created man so that he may perceive the verity of existence and endowed him with mind or reason to discover truth. Therefore, scientific knowledge and religious belief must be conformable to the analysis of this divine faculty in man. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What characteristics of religion make it “the light of the world?” ²

Google Bard Response:

According to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, several characteristics make religion “the light of the world”:

Unity and Love:

• One underlying reality: According to Bahá’u’lláh, true religion is based on a unified reality transcending divisions and sectarianism. This fosters understanding and unity among different faiths and cultures.
• Love as the foundation: Religion should promote love and unity, not hatred and division. It should be a source of connection and compassion, aligning with God’s law of love and uniting human hearts.
  

Guiding Light and Truth:

• Path to reality: Religion, when understood correctly, guides us towards the truth and understanding of existence. It provides a framework for navigating life’s complexities and seeking meaning.
• Dispelling darkness: True religion acts like a light, illuminating our path and dispelling the darkness of ignorance, superstition, and doubt. It brings clarity and purpose to our lives.
  

Harmony with Reason and Knowledge:

• Compatibility with science: Religion should not contradict reason and scientific knowledge. Both are seen as gifts from God, and their insights should complement and enhance each other.
• Combating superstition: True religion promotes critical thinking and encourages us to move beyond unquestioning belief and superstition. It embraces investigation and understanding, leading to a more informed and meaningful faith.
  

Overall, a religion that embodies these characteristics acts as a beacon of hope and guidance in the world. It promotes unity, love, and understanding, provides a path toward truth and meaning, and encourages intellectual exploration and growth. This is what makes religion a true “light of the world,” illuminating our path and guiding us toward a better future.

Remember, this is just one perspective on the characteristics of a “light of the world” religion. Different religious traditions and individuals may have varying interpretations and priorities. Engaging in respectful dialogue and exploring diverse perspectives can enrich our understanding of this complex concept.

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, 287. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/20#269155120. ↩
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. ↩