Daily Frameworks for 18 February 2024

Jamál, 12 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quotes for Reflection:

Whensoever holy souls, drawing on the powers of heaven, shall arise with such qualities of the spirit, and march in unison, rank on rank, every one of those souls will be even as one thousand, and the surging waves of that mighty ocean will be even as the battalions of the Concourse on high. What a blessing that will be—when all shall come together, even as once separate torrents, rivers and streams, running brooks and single drops, when collected together in one place will form a mighty sea. And to such a degree will the inherent unity of all prevail, that the traditions, rules, customs and distinctions in the fanciful life of these populations will be effaced and vanish away like isolated drops, once the great sea of oneness doth leap and surge and roll. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

The great and fundamental teachings of Bahá’u’lláh are the oneness of God and unity of mankind. This is the bond of union among Bahá’ís all over the world. They become united among themselves, then unite others. It is impossible to unite unless united. Christ said, “Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted?” This proves there were dissensions and lack of unity among His followers. Hence His admonition to unity of action.
Now must we, likewise, bind ourselves together in the utmost unity, be kind and loving to each other, sacrificing all our possessions, our honor, yea, even our lives for each other. Then will it be proved that we have acted according to the teachings of God, that we have been real believers in the oneness of God and unity of mankind. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ²

Question for Consideration:

In light of the quotes from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá above, what are the characteristics and consequences of unity of action? ³

Google Gemini Response:

In the passages you shared, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá beautifully describes the transformative power of unity and the characteristics and consequences of unity in action. Here are some key takeaways:

Characteristics:

• Shared spiritual qualities: Individuals are motivated by spiritual principles, love, and a desire to serve God and humanity.
• Collective action: Diverse individuals come together, united in purpose and action, working harmoniously towards a common goal.
• Transcending differences: Traditions, customs, and personal agendas fade away as individuals focus on the shared goal and oneness of humanity.
• Amplifying impact: Individuals gain strength and become more effective when united, their actions having far-reaching consequences.
• Sacrifice and commitment: True unity requires sacrifice of personal desires and a willingness to serve the greater good.
  

Consequences:

• Harmony and peace: Unity fosters a sense of belonging, understanding, and cooperation, reducing conflict and promoting peace.
• Transformation of society: Collective action based on love and service can create positive change and contribute to a more just and equitable world.
• Spiritual growth: Working together for a common purpose strengthens individuals’ faith and connection to God.
• Fulfillment of purpose: By embodying unity, individuals fulfill Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings and advance humanity’s unity.
• Attraction of others: The positive example of a united community inspires and attracts others to pursue a better world together.
  

Additional Points:

• Unity of action is not about uniformity but individuals working together while respecting diversity.
• Achieving true unity requires continuous effort, forgiveness, and a willingness to learn from each other.
• Small acts of unity in daily life can contribute to the broader vision of a united world.
  

By reflecting on these characteristics and consequences and putting them into practice in our lives and communities, we can contribute to the transformative power of unity of action, fulfilling ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s vision of a world united in love and service.

It’s important to remember that interpretations of these passages and approaches to unity of action can vary within the Bahá’í community. Ultimately, the goal is to work towards a more harmonious and just world where everyone feels valued and respected, contributing to the collective good.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 260-261. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/9#762550727. ↩
2. ’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, 156. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/12#115495925. ↩
3. 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, 51. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩