’Idál, 01 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.
Arising to Serve
Quote for Reflection:
Indeed, the very foundation of the Law of God is that His loved ones should consort with all the peoples and kindreds of the earth with the utmost kindliness, fellowship, and unity, and with truthfulness, sincerity, and faithfulness. On no account should they behave towards anyone in a manner contrary to this inviolable principle, save for one who is the embodiment of enmity and is intent upon destroying the Law of God. For such souls, there is no remedy whatsoever. No space should be given them to parade and advance. For otherwise they would bring to naught the glorious martyrdom of the Báb, the shedding of the pure blood of all the martyrs, and the trials, afflictions, and imprisonments suffered by the Luminous Beauty for well-nigh fifty years. They would utterly subvert the mighty foundation of the Cause of God. — ’Abdu’l-Bahá 1
Question for Consideration:
Why did Bahá’u’lláh suffer so many afflictions? 2
Google Bard Response:
In the cited passage, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá highlights the foundation of God’s Law – treating everyone with kindness, fellowship, and unity, regardless of background. While acknowledging exceptions for those actively harming the Faith, the emphasis remains on fostering positive relationships. This raises the question: Why did Bahá’u’lláh, the Central Figure of the Faith, endure so much suffering?
There are several interpretations and perspectives on this matter:
- Divine Will and Sacrifice: Bahá’ís believe that Bahá’u’lláh, as a Manifestation of God, willingly endured suffering per God’s divine plan. This perspective views His sacrifices as necessary for the spiritual progress of humanity. By sharing in human suffering, He demonstrated empathy and love and set an example of perseverance in the face of hardship.
- Testing and Strengthening Faith: Persecution and hardship are tests that strengthen faith and purify character. In facing immense challenges, Bahá’u’lláh remained steadfast in His convictions, exemplifying unwavering faith and commitment to His mission.
- Symbolic Death and Rebirth: Some interpretations draw parallels with religious narratives of sacrifice and resurrection. Just as seeds need darkness to germinate and grow, Bahá’u’lláh’s “death” through suffering can be seen as a symbolic prelude to the “rebirth” of a new world order based on His teachings.
- Witnessing and Exposing Injustice: By enduring unjust treatment, Bahá’u’lláh served as a witness to the oppressive nature of the existing power structures. His suffering drew attention to their flaws and became a potent symbol of the need for justice and reform.
- Opportunity for Teaching and Spreading the Message: Though imprisoned and persecuted, Bahá’u’lláh continued to teach and spread His message with even greater determination. His written works, including letters to world leaders, reached diverse audiences despite His confinement, contributing to the growth of the Bahá’í Faith.
- Setting an Example of Forgiveness and Non-Violence: Despite suffering persecution, Bahá’u’lláh advocated for forgiveness, love, and non-violence. By refusing to retaliate or succumb to hatred, He embodied His teachings and offered a powerful alternative to the cycle of violence.
It’s important to remember that these interpretations are not mutually exclusive, and the reasons for Bahá’u’lláh’s suffering can be multifaceted. Ultimately, His experiences offer a powerful message of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to the world’s transformation for the better. He inspires individuals and communities to strive for unity, peace, and justice in the face of adversity.
While this provides a general overview, further understanding may require exploring specific accounts of Bahá’u’lláh’s suffering and its historical context within the persecution faced by the early Bahá’í community.
- ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Light of the World: Selected Tablets of ’Abdu’l-Bahá. 1st ed. Haifa: Bahá’í World Center, 2021. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/light-of-the-world/3#264406668. ↩
- 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, 47. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 