Daily Frameworks for 11 November 2024

Kamál, 09 Qudrat (Power), 181 B.E.

Teaching the Cause

Quotes for Reflection:

All people must, however, fix their gaze upon the Word that hath dawned from the horizon of Divine Utterance. It is incumbent upon every soul to ponder its sovereignty and pervading influence, its might and all-encompassing power. There can be no doubt that these matters are confirmed and proven only through the Word of God. It is the Word of God that standeth supreme over all things. It is the begetter of the world and the educator of its people. It summoneth them that wander athirst in the vale of separation to direct their steps towards the ocean of reunion. It illuminateth the darkness of ignorance with the morning light of knowledge. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

All the meetings must be for teaching the Cause and spreading the Message, and suffering the souls to enter in the Kingdom of Bahá’u’lláh. Look at me. All my thoughts are centered around the proclamation of the Kingdom. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ²

Concerning the transition from the present system of national sovereignty to a system of world government, the House of Justice fully agrees with your view that the Bahá’ís must now do all in their power to promote this transition. This requires several related activities, all of which are goals of the present Seven Year Plan. One is the establishment as rapidly as possible of firmly grounded efficiently functioning Local Spiritual Assemblies in every part of the world, so that seekers everywhere will have a point of reference to which they can turn for guidance and for the Teachings of the Faith. A second is the deepening of the believers, of all ages, in their understanding of and obedience to the Teachings. A third is the proclamation of the Faith to all strata of society, and in particular to those in authority and to leaders of thought so that those who hold the direction of peoples in their hands will learn accurately about the nature and tenets of the Faith and will grow to respect it and implement its principles. A fourth is the promotion of Bahá’í scholarship, so that an increasing number of believers will be able to analyse the problems of mankind in every field and to show how the Teachings solve them. A fifth is the development of relations between the Bahá’í International Community and the United Nations both directly with the highest UN institutions and at a grass-roots level in areas of rural development, education, etc. — Universal House of Justice ³

To read the writings of the Faith and to strive to obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s stupendous Revelation are obligations laid on every one of His followers. All are enjoined to delve into the ocean of His Revelation and to partake, in keeping with their capacities and inclinations, of the pearls of wisdom that lie therein. In this light, local deepening classes, winter and summer schools, and specially arranged gatherings in which individual believers knowledgeable in the writings were able to share with others insights into specific subjects emerged naturally as prominent features of Bahá’í life. Just as the habit of daily reading will remain an integral part of Bahá’í identity, so will these forms of study continue to hold a place in the collective life of the community. But understanding the implications of the Revelation, both in terms of individual growth and social progress, increases manifold when study and service are joined and carried out concurrently. There, in the field of service, knowledge is tested, questions arise out of practice, and new levels of understanding are achieved. In the system of distance education that has now been established in country after country—the principal elements of which include the study circle, the tutor and the curriculum of the Ruhi Institute—the worldwide Bahá’í community has acquired the capacity to enable thousands, nay millions, to study the writings in small groups with the explicit purpose of translating the Bahá’í teachings into reality, carrying the work of the Faith forward into its next stage: sustained large-scale expansion and consolidation. — Universal House of Justice ⁴

Your contributions in multiple spaces where conversations on various social problems occur strengthen collective capacity for elevated dialogue and help diverse actors achieve unity of thought and action by drawing on insights from the Bahá’í teachings and experience. The centrality you give to consultation increases capacity for collective investigation of truth, frees decision-making processes from contest and adversarial tendencies, and enables people from diverse backgrounds to transcend differences and harmonize perspectives. — Universal House of Justice ⁵

Question for Consideration

What are the distinctions between proclaiming and teaching others about the Bahá’í Faith and deepening and confirming them in the Bahá’í Faith? ⁶

Gemini Response:

While both proclaiming and deepening are essential aspects of teaching the Bahá’í Faith, they involve distinct approaches and goals:

Proclaiming the Faith

• Focus: Introducing the Faith to new people and attracting them to the Cause.
• Approach: Enthusiastic, inspiring, and persuasive.
• Goal: To awaken interest and encourage exploration of the Faith.
• Methods: Public talks, workshops, informal conversations, social media, and other outreach activities.
  

Deepening and Confirming the Faith:

• Focus: Nurturing the faith of existing believers and helping them to grow spiritually.
• Approach: Supportive, nurturing, and instructive.
• Goal: To deepen understanding of the Faith, strengthen spiritual practices, and inspire service.
• Methods: Study circles, devotional gatherings, retreats, and one-on-one mentoring.
  

It’s important to note that these two aspects are interconnected. Proclaiming the Faith often leads to deepening as new believers seek to understand the teachings more fully. Similarly, deepening one’s understanding of the Faith can make one a more effective teacher and inspire others to embrace the Cause.

In essence, proclaiming the Faith is about sowing the seeds of the Faith while deepening and confirming is about nurturing those seeds into flourishing trees. Both are essential for the growth and development of the Bahá’í community.

ChatGPT Response:

Proclaiming and teaching the Bahá’í Faith versus deepening and confirming individuals within the Faith represent two interconnected yet distinct spiritual development and community-building phases. Both are essential for the growth and consolidation of the Bahá’í community, but they serve different purposes and involve different methods. Based on the provided quotes and general Bahá’í principles, here are the key distinctions:

Proclaiming and Teaching the Bahá’í Faith

Objective:
The primary aim of proclaiming and teaching is to introduce the Bahá’í Faith to new individuals and communities. This phase focuses on spreading awareness, inviting people to explore the Faith, and fostering initial interest and understanding.

Key Characteristics: Outreach and Invitation

• Proclaiming the Cause: As Bahá’u’lláh commands, believers are urged to “unloose your tongues, and proclaim unceasingly His Cause.” This involves actively sharing the fundamental teachings and principles of the Faith with those who are unfamiliar with it.
• Teaching the Basics: Introducing the core beliefs, such as the oneness of humanity, the unity of religion, and the principles outlined by Bahá’u’lláh.
  

Key Characteristics: Methods and Approaches

• Study Circles and Tutoring: Utilizing structured programs like the Ruhi Institute’s study circles to facilitate understanding among new and prospective believers.
• Public Discourse: Engaging in conversations, lectures, and presentations that communicate the essence of the Bahá’í teachings in accessible language.
• Adaptability and Contextualization: Tailoring the approach based on the audience’s receptivity and cultural context, as emphasized by the Universal House of Justice’s guidance on discernment and sensitivity.
  

Key Characteristics: Building Awareness

• Establishing Local Spiritual Assemblies: Creating local governing bodies that serve as reference points for seekers, providing guidance and support as they learn about the Faith.
• Promoting Unity and Inclusivity: Emphasizing universal values and shared human principles to attract a diverse range of individuals.
  

Deepening and Confirming in the Bahá’í Faith

Objective:
Once individuals have been introduced to the Bahá’í Faith, the focus shifts to deepening their understanding, strengthening their commitment, and integrating the teachings into their daily lives. This phase is about nurturing and consolidating the faith among believers.

Key Characteristics: Spiritual and Intellectual Growth

• In-Depth Study: Encouraging continuous education through local deepening classes, winter and summer schools, and other educational programs that explore the deeper meanings and applications of Bahá’í teachings.
• Personal Reflection: Promoting individual contemplation and meditation on the writings of Bahá’u’lláh to internalize and understand the spiritual principles more profoundly.
  

Key Characteristics: Application and Service

• Integrating Knowledge into Action: The Universal House of Justice states that understanding “increases manifold when study and service are joined and carried out concurrently.” Believers are encouraged to apply their knowledge through acts of service, thereby transforming spiritual insights into tangible contributions to society.
• Community Involvement: Participating in community projects, social endeavors, and collective initiatives that reflect Bahá’í values and promote societal betterment.
  

Key Characteristics: Strengthening Commitment

• Confirming Faith: Providing support and encouragement to believers to sustain their commitment, especially during times of trial or difficulty, as highlighted by Shoghi Effendi’s emphasis on perseverance and reliance on divine assistance.
• Fostering Unity: Building a robust and united community where believers support one another, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work collaboratively toward common goals.
  

Key Characteristics: Advanced Educational Structures

• Ruhi Institute Programs: Implementing systematic educational frameworks that facilitate individual and collective growth, enabling believers to deepen their understanding and enhance their ability to teach and serve effectively.
• Scholarship and Research: Promoting Bahá’í scholarship to analyze global issues through the lens of Bahá’í teachings, contributing to solutions that align with the principles of unity and justice.
  

Summary of Distinctions

Proclaiming and Teaching	Deepening and Confirming
Focus: Introducing the Faith to new individuals and communities.	Focus: Enhancing understanding and commitment among existing believers.
Methods: Outreach activities, study circles for new learners, public presentations.	Methods: In-depth study programs, personal reflection, community service projects.
Objectives: Raising awareness, sparking interest, establishing initial connections.	Objectives: Strengthening faith, integrating teachings into daily life, fostering community unity.
Audience: Seekers, prospective believers, general public.	Audience: Current believers, community members, leaders within the Faith.

Interconnectedness

While proclaiming and teaching are about expanding the reach of the Bahá’í Faith, deepening and confirming ensure that those who accept the Faith grow spiritually and contribute meaningfully to the community and society. Both phases are vital for sustained growth and realizing Bahá’u’lláh’s vision for unity and progress.

Conclusion

Proclaiming and teaching the Bahá’í Faith lays the foundation by inviting individuals to discover the Faith’s principles and values. Deepening and confirming build upon this foundation by nurturing believers’ spiritual and intellectual growth, encouraging active participation in service, and fostering a cohesive and dynamic community. Together, these efforts create a vibrant, expanding Bahá’í community committed to the betterment of humanity.

Claude Response:

From these passages, several distinctions emerge between proclamation/teaching and deepening/confirmation while also highlighting their interconnected nature:

Proclamation and Initial Teaching

• Focused on making the existence and basic principles of the Faith known
• Reaching diverse strata of society with the message
• Creating points of reference (like Local Spiritual Assemblies) for seekers
• Engaging in elevated dialogue about social issues through Bahá’í principles
• Introducing people to “the Word that hath dawned from the horizon”
  

Deepening and Confirmation

• Systematic study of the Writings
• Delving deeply into the ocean of Revelation
• Developing understanding through practice and service
• Translating teachings into reality
• Building capacity for sustained action
• Joining study and service concurrently
  

Key Differences in Approach

Proclamation/Teaching:

• More outward-focused
• Broader in scope
• Initial exposure to teachings
• Often involves public discourse
• Emphasis on reaching new audiences
  

Deepening/Confirmation:

• More intensive study
• Personal transformation
• Systematic development
• Integration of knowledge and action
• Building community capacity
  

Complementary Nature

The passages suggest these processes are deeply interconnected:

• Study circles serve both teaching and deepening
• Service becomes a context for both learning and teaching
• Understanding grows through practice
• Elevated dialogue serves both purposes
• Both contribute to individual and collective transformation
  

Shared Ultimate Purpose

Both processes aim to:

• Center thoughts on the Kingdom
• Transform individual and collective life
• Contribute to world unity
• Translate teachings into action
• Build capacity for service
  

Pi Response:

Proclaiming and teaching others about the Bahá’í Faith, as well as deepening and confirming them in the Faith, are all essential aspects of sharing Bahá’u’lláh’s message with the world. While these activities are interconnected, there are some distinctions between them:

Proclaiming and Teaching

Raising Awareness

Proclaiming the Faith involves making others aware of its existence and fundamental principles. It may include public talks, disseminating information, or engaging in interfaith dialogues.

Sharing Knowledge

Teaching primarily focuses on sharing knowledge of the Bahá’í teachings, history, and principles with others. It can be done through study circles, firesides, or one-on-one conversations.

Attracting New Believers

Proclamation and teaching aim to attract new believers to the Faith by helping them recognize Bahá’u’lláh’s message and its relevance to their lives.

Deepening and Confirming

Enhancing Understanding

Deepening involves nurturing and expanding the understanding of the Faith among those who have already embraced it. It aims to strengthen their knowledge and appreciation of Bahá’í teachings, history, and administration.

Fostering Spiritual Growth

Through deepening, believers are encouraged to delve into the writings, pray, meditate, and apply Bahá’í teachings to their daily lives, fostering their spiritual growth and transformation.

Building Commitment and Connections

Confirming refers to supporting new Bahá’ís in their faith journey by providing guidance, resources, and opportunities for community involvement. This helps them to establish a strong connection with the Bahá’í community and deepen their commitment to the Faith.

In summary, proclaiming and teaching focus on introducing and sharing the Bahá’í Faith with new individuals while deepening and confirming enhances the understanding and spiritual growth of Bahá’ís. Both aspects are vital in ensuring the expansion and consolidation of the Bahá’í community worldwide.

1. Bahá’u’lláh Additional Tablets and Extracts from Tablets Revealed by Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’í Reference Library, Accessed November 9, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/additional-tablets-extracts-from-tablets-revealed-bahaullah/938654812/1#302058317. ↩
2. Research Department of the Universal House Justice. Bahá’í Meetings. Revised January 1989. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1975. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/bahai-meetings/1#580551273. ↩
3. The Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “Peace.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 1985. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/peace/9#651051372. ↩
4. Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “The National Spiritual Assembly.” Bahá’í Reference Library, October 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/national-spiritual-assembly/3#473372607. ↩
5. Universal House of Justice. “1 November 2022 – To the Followers of Bahá’u’lláh in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.” Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 9, 2024. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/the-universal-house-of-justice/messages/20221101_001/1#144447805. ↩
6. Ruhi Institute. Teaching the Cause. 2.1.1.PE April 2023. Vol. Book 6. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2023, 75-76. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#TCH.