Daily Frameworks for 21 February 2024

’Idál, 15 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

It is with such thoughts in mind that Bahá’ís enter into collaboration, as their resources permit, with an increasing number of movements, organizations, groups and individuals, establishing partnerships that strive to transform society and further the cause of unity, promote human welfare, and contribute to world solidarity. Indeed, the standard set by passages such as the above inspires the Bahá’í community to become actively engaged in as many aspects of contemporary life as feasible. In choosing areas of collaboration, Bahá’ís are to bear in mind the principle, enshrined in their teachings, that means should be consistent with ends; noble goals cannot be achieved through unworthy means. Specifically, it is not possible to build enduring unity through endeavours that require contention or assume that an inherent conflict of interests underlies all human interactions, however subtly. It should be noted here that, despite the limitations imposed by adherence to this principle, the community has not experienced a shortage of opportunities for collaboration; so many people in the world today are working intensely towards one or another aim which Bahá’ís share. In this respect, they also take care not to overstep certain bounds with their colleagues and associates. They are not to regard any joint undertaking as an occasion to impose religious convictions. Self-righteousness and other unfortunate manifestations of religious zeal are to be utterly avoided. Bahá’ís do, however, readily offer to their collaborators the lessons they have learned through their own experience, just as they are happy to incorporate into their community-building efforts insights gained through such association. — Universal House of Justice ¹

Question for Consideration:

Which of the following contribute to unity?
Looking at the shortcomings of others.
Overlooking the faults of others.
Commenting on the shortcomings of another person to a friend.
Exaggerating or changing a story to make another person look bad.
Thinking of the faults of others. ²

Google Gemini Response:

Out of the options listed, only overlooking the faults of others contributes to unity according to the passage from the Universal House of Justice. Here’s why:

• Looking at the shortcomings of others: This focuses on negativity and can lead to judgment and criticism, hindering unity.
• Commenting on the shortcomings of another person to a friend: This further perpetuates gossip and negativity, damaging trust and fostering division.
• Exaggerating or changing a story to make another person look bad: This is intentionally manipulative and destructive, directly violating the principle of “noble goals cannot be achieved through unworthy means.”
• Thinking of the faults of others: While not actively spreading negativity, dwelling on faults doesn’t build positive connections or contribute to unity.
  

Overlooking the faults of others, as encouraged in the passage, emphasizes forgiveness, understanding, and a willingness to focus on the positive aspects of relationships. This doesn’t mean ignoring harmful behavior, but rather prioritizing respectful communication and seeking solutions while maintaining unity and avoiding unnecessary negativity.

The Bahá’í community encourages collaboration with diverse groups while staying true to their principles. They offer their own experiences and learn from others, prioritizing unity and avoiding religious imposition or self-righteousness. This approach emphasizes the importance of positive interactions and contributions, aligning with overlooking faults and fostering unity.

Remember, this is one interpretation of the passage, and approaches to promoting unity within the Bahá’í community can vary. Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate love, understanding, and collaboration while maintaining fidelity to their core principles.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

The passage you’ve shared highlights the Bahá’í community’s commitment to collaboration, unity, and noble goals. Let’s examine how the listed actions contribute to unity:

1. Looking at the shortcomings of others: This action tends to create division and negativity. Focusing on faults can hinder unity by emphasizing differences rather than common ground.
   
2. Overlooking the faults of others: This approach promotes understanding, empathy, and forgiveness. By recognizing imperfections but choosing not to dwell on them, individuals can foster unity and harmony.
   
3. Commenting on the shortcomings of another person to a friend: Such comments can perpetuate gossip and negativity. They may harm relationships and undermine trust, ultimately working against unity.
   
4. Exaggerating or changing a story to make another person look bad: Fabricating stories or intentionally distorting facts harms trust and creates discord. Unity relies on honesty and transparency.
   
5. Thinking of the faults of others: While self-reflection is essential, dwelling excessively on others’ faults can lead to judgment and division. A focus on shared goals and positive qualities contributes more effectively to unity.
   

In summary, actions that promote understanding, forgiveness, and positive collaboration contribute to unity, while negativity, gossip, and dishonesty hinder it. The Bahá’í teachings emphasize noble means to achieve noble ends, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation among people.

1. Universal House of Justice. “2 March 2013 – To the Bahá’ís of Iran.” Bahá’í Reference Library, March 2, 2013. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/the-universal-house-of-justice/messages/20130302_001/1#551078499. ↩
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, 53. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩