Daily Frameworks for 15 February 2024

Istijlál, 09 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O COMPANION OF MY THRONE! Hear no evil, and see no evil, abase not thyself, neither sigh and weep. Speak no evil, that thou mayest not hear it spoken unto thee, and magnify not the faults of others that thine own faults may not appear great; and wish not the abasement of anyone, that thine own abasement be not exposed. Live then the days of thy life, that are less than a fleeting moment, with thy mind stainless, thy heart unsullied, thy thoughts pure, and thy nature sanctified, so that, free and content, thou mayest put away this mortal frame, and repair unto the mystic paradise and abide in the eternal kingdom forevermore. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

How should one live the days of one’s physical life? ²

Google Gemini Response:

The passage you shared from Bahá’u’lláh offers guidance on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on spiritual principles. Here are some key takeaways on how one should live the days of their physical life:

Cultivating Inner Purity:

• “Hear no evil, and see no evil…”: This doesn’t mean shutting yourself off from the world, but choosing not to dwell on negativity or gossip. Focus on the good and positive aspects of life.
• ”…abase not thyself, neither sigh and weep.”: Avoid self-pity and negativity. Embrace resilience, optimism, and gratitude for your blessings.
• “Speak no evil, that thou mayest not hear it spoken unto thee…”: Be mindful of your own words and avoid speaking negatively about others. Treat others with respect and kindness.
• ”…magnify not the faults of others that thine own faults may not appear great…”: Don’t judge or rebuke others. Focus on understanding and improving your character.
• ”…wish not the abasement of anyone, that thine own abasement be not exposed.”: Avoid harboring ill will or wishing harm on others. Practice compassion and forgiveness.
  

Living a Purposeful Life:

• “Live then the days of thy life, that are less than a fleeting moment…”: Value the preciousness of life and make the most of every day.
• ”…with thy mind stainless, thy heart unsullied, thy thoughts pure, and thy nature sanctified…”: Strive for inner peace and spiritual growth. Cultivate qualities like love, kindness, and service to others.
• ”…free and content…”: Find joy and satisfaction in living a life aligned with your values.
• ”…put away this mortal frame, and repair unto the mystic paradise and abide in the eternal kingdom forevermore.”: Embrace the transient nature of physical life and focus on building your spiritual connection with the divine.
  

Remember:

• This is a lifelong journey of self-improvement and spiritual growth.
• Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Keep striving to live your best life according to these principles.
• Seek guidance from spiritual teachings, prayer, and meditation to support your journey.
  

By incorporating these principles into your daily life, you can cultivate inner peace, contribute positively to the world, and live a life that reflects your true spiritual potential.

It’s important to note that interpretations of this passage and approaches to living a meaningful life can vary within the Bahá’í community. Ultimately, the goal is to follow Bahá’u’lláh’s guidance to live a life of love, service, and spiritual growth, contributing to the betterment of humanity and preparing for a life beyond the physical world.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

The eloquent words of Bahá’u’lláh offer profound guidance on how to live the days of our physical existence. Let us reflect upon these timeless principles:

• “Hear no evil, and see no evil…”
  Guard your senses against negativity. Refrain from listening to harmful words or witnessing harmful actions. Doing so protects your inner peace and maintains a pure heart.
• ”…abase not thyself, neither sigh and weep.”
  Avoid self-deprecation and unnecessary sorrow. Recognize your inherent worth and rise above challenges. Cultivate resilience and hope, for life’s trials are but fleeting moments.
• “Speak no evil…”
  Be mindful of your words. Refrain from gossip, criticism, and harmful speech. Doing so creates a positive environment around you and uplifts others.
• ”…magnify not the faults of others…”
  Instead of focusing on others’ shortcomings, turn your gaze inward. Acknowledge your imperfections and strive for self-improvement. Compassion and understanding lead to unity.
• ”…wish not the abasement of anyone…”
  Celebrate others’ successes and well-being. Jealousy and ill wishes harm your soul. Embrace humility and recognize the interconnectedness of all humanity.
• “Live then the days of thy life…with thy mind stainless, thy heart unsullied, thy thoughts pure, and thy nature sanctified…”
  Cultivate mindfulness, purity, and virtue. Let your thoughts be uplifting, your intentions noble, and your actions aligned with love and service.
• “Put away this mortal frame, and repair unto the mystic paradise…”
  Recognize that life is transient. Cherish each moment, yet detach from the material world. Seek spiritual growth and prepare for the eternal journey beyond this earthly existence.
  

May we live our days with purpose, kindness, and reverence, aspiring to abide in the eternal kingdom forever. 🌟🙏

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 14, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#697759113. ↩
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, 50. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩