Daily Frameworks for 23 February 2024

Istiqlál, 17 Mulk (Dominion), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

Backbiting, slander and dwelling on the faults of others have been repeatedly condemned by Bahá’u’lláh. In the Hidden Words, He clearly states: “O Son of Being! How couldst thou forget thine own faults and busy thyself with the faults of others? Whoso doeth this is accursed of Me.” ¹ And again: “O Son of Man! Breathe not the sins of others so long as thou art thyself a sinner. Shouldst thou transgress this command, accursed wouldst thou be, and to this I bear witness.” ² This strong admonition is further reiterated in His last work, “The Book of My Covenant”: “Verily I say, the tongue is for mentioning what is good, defile it not with unseemly talk. God hath forgiven what is past. Henceforward everyone should utter that which is meet and seemly, and should refrain from slander, abuse and whatever causeth sadness in men.” ³ — Bahá’u’lláh ⁴

Question for Consideration:

Is it possible to have unity in a situation where people are backbiting about one another? Why not? ⁵

Google Gemini Response:

Based on the passage from Bahá’u’lláh and the principles of the Bahá’í Faith, true unity is not possible in a situation where people are backbiting about one another. Here’s why:

Reasons why backbiting hinders unity:

• Breaches trust and respect: Backbiting undermines trust and fosters negativity, making it challenging to build genuine connections.
• Creates division and resentment: When individuals talk negatively about others behind their backs, it fuels resentment and creates divisions within the community.
• Focuses on negativity: Backbiting encourages dwelling on others’ faults, shifting focus away from positive qualities, and fostering negativity.
• Contradicts the principle of overlooking faults: Bahá’í teachings emphasize forgiveness and understanding, which are incompatible with backbiting.
• Hinders spiritual growth: Backbiting goes against the Bahá’í ideals of love, compassion, and unity, hindering spiritual progress for individuals and the community.
  

Additional points:

• The passage explicitly condemns backbiting and warns against its harmful effects.
• True unity requires a positive and supportive environment where individuals feel respected and valued.
• Addressing issues directly and respectfully, rather than through backbiting, fosters open communication and understanding.
• The Bahá’í community encourages individuals to focus on their spiritual growth and avoid judging others.
  

While achieving complete unity in any community can be challenging, actively working against backbiting and promoting positive communication is crucial for building a more harmonious and united environment.

It’s important to note that interpretations of this passage and how to deal with backbiting can vary within the Bahá’í community. Ultimately, the goal is cultivating love, understanding, and respect and creating a community where everyone feels safe and supported.

Microsoft Copilot Response:

Unity is a lofty aspiration, yet it faces significant challenges when people engage in backbiting and slander. Let us explore this delicate balance:

Backbiting and Unity

• Backbiting, defined as speaking ill of someone behind their back, erodes trust and creates divisions. When individuals gossip or focus on the faults of others, it weakens the bonds that hold a community together.
• Unity requires open communication, empathy, and a shared sense of purpose. Backbiting undermines these essential components.
  

Why Backbiting Hinders Unity

• Distrust: Backbiting fosters suspicion. When people fear their words will be twisted or used against them, they hesitate to collaborate openly.
• Emotional Distance: Negative talk about others creates emotional distance. It sows seeds of discord and prevents genuine connections.
• Loss of Focus: Instead of working toward common goals, energy is wasted on gossip. Unity thrives when collective efforts are directed toward positive endeavors.
  

Bahá’u’lláh’s Wisdom

• Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, emphasized the importance of avoiding backbiting. His teachings encourage individuals to focus on their growth and refrain from dwelling on the faults of others.
• The Hidden Words, the Kitáb-i-‘Ahd (Book of the Covenant), and other writings emphasize the need for uplifting speech and kindness.
• By adhering to these principles, individuals contribute to unity and harmony.
  

Path to Unity

• Self-Reflection: Each person must examine their behavior. Are they contributing positively or perpetuating negativity?
• Forgiveness: Recognize that everyone has flaws. Forgiving others and ourselves allows healing and growth.
• Constructive Dialogue: Address concerns directly rather than through gossip. Honest conversations build bridges.
• Collective Effort: Communities thrive when individuals work together, focusing on shared values and aspirations.
  

In summary, unity is possible even in the face of backbiting but requires conscious effort. We can create a more harmonious world by choosing uplifting words and practicing forgiveness. 🌟

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 22, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#568477331. ↩
2. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 22, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#605082403. ↩
3. Bahá’u’lláh. Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 22, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/tablets-bahaullah/6#975681273. ↩
4. Bahá’u’lláh. The Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed February 22, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/kitab-i-aqdas/12#392967566. ↩
5. 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, 54. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩