Jalál, 06 Sharaf (Honor), 181 B.E.
Walking Together on a Path of Service
Quotes for Reflection
The answer to all this falleth under the purview of the first utterance that hath streamed forth from the tongue of the All-Merciful. By God! It embraceth and comprehendeth all that hath been mentioned. He saith: “Be anxiously concerned with the needs of the age ye live in, and centre your deliberations on its exigencies and requirements”. For in this day He Who is the Lord of Revelation hath appeared and He Who spoke on Sinai is calling aloud. Whatsoever He may ordain is the surest foundation for the mansions reared in the cities of human knowledge and wisdom. Whoso holdeth fast unto it will be reckoned in the eyes of the Almighty among them that are endued with insight. — Bahá’u’lláh 1
In a world where creeds and ideologies are willing to employ any means possible to win adherents, someone unfamiliar with the Faith may have genuine questions about the intentions of the Ruhi Institute, most notably, “Am I being asked to change my religion?” or “Am I being asked to join a religion?” Such questions offer the tutor a chance to explain the purpose of the sequence of courses as outlined above. While it is natural that Bahá’ís would be eager to see their friends join the community, their own teachings prohibit them, a tutor may wish to add, from engaging in proselytization. Walking the path of service opened up by the institute courses calls for an ever-deepening understanding of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings, which the materials endeavor to set forth unequivocally; acceptance and faith are matters to be contemplated by each individual freely and without pressure.
Not surprisingly, then, it is with the question of understanding, so central to all the books in the sequence, that this first one begins. To read from the Holy Writings is not the same as reading the many thousands of pages that a person sees in a lifetime, and the unit, “Understanding the Bahá’í Writings,” seeks to foster the habit of reading passages from the Sacred Text every day and meditating on their meaning, a habit that will greatly aid participants as they embark on the path of service. To guide them in its study, the tutor must give a great deal of thought to the subject of understanding.
The Bahá’í Writings contain profound spiritual truths, and even as we strive to advance in our understanding of their infinite meaning, we know that we can never reach a definitive end. We generally gain a basic comprehension of the immediate meaning of a passage when reading it for the first time, and Section 1 of the unit takes this as a starting point. Thus, after reading the quotation, “The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds, through commendable and seemly conduct,” 2 participants are simply asked, “How can the betterment of the world be accomplished?” At a glance, most of the questions and exercises of this kind appear to be too simple. But years of experience seem to justify the Institute’s decision to begin this way. We all need to be reminded that, in its haste to find the layers of truth in a passage, the mind should not overlook its obvious meaning. Attention to this first level of comprehension also proves vital to group consultation; it strengthens unity of thought, readily attainable when personal opinions are allowed to be illumined by Divine wisdom.
It is important to note here that understanding the immediate meaning of most passages does not benefit from a long discussion of single words out of context. That said, it may be necessary, on occasion, for a group to look up a word in the dictionary. What may be more fruitful, however, is for the participants to learn how to infer the meanings of words from whole sentences and paragraphs.
For understanding to expand beyond the realm of immediate meaning, examples that show how ideas find concrete expression can be helpful. All that is called for in this respect are straightforward exercises. In Section 2, for instance, participants are asked to determine, in light of a passage they have just read, whether certain characteristics are commendable. In a similar exercise in Section 4, they are encouraged to name five virtues and then decide whether it is possible to acquire any of them in the absence of truthfulness—described in the Writings as”the foundation of all human virtues.” 3
To achieve its purpose, the unit demands a further advance in understanding by challenging participants to think about some of the implications of the passages presented. In Section 2, they are required to determine whether the statement “There are so few good people in the world that their actions do not have any effect” is true. Here the intent is not to elicit mere opinion. The tutor must pause and query the reason for the participants’ answers. That the statement must necessarily be false because it contradicts the first quotation in the preceding section is the conclusion to which the group should come. The question of whether Bahá’ís may confess their sins to others is also an example of this kind of exercise. It refers to the prohibition in the teachings against confession as a means of absolving sin, which, not mentioned expressly in any of the passages studied, can be drawn out be exploring the meaning of the verse, “Bring thyself to account each day ere thou art summoned to a reckoning.” 4 — Ruhi Institute Staff 5
The existence of authoritative interpretations does not preclude the individual from engaging in the study of the Teachings and thereby arriving at a personal interpretation or understanding. A clear distinction is, however, drawn in the Bahá’í Writings between authoritative interpretation and the understanding that each individual arrives at from a study of its Teachings. Individual interpretations based on a person’s understanding of the Teachings constitute the fruit of man’s rational power and may well contribute to a greater comprehension of the Faith. Such views, nevertheless, lack authority. In presenting their personal ideas, individuals are cautioned not to discard the authority of the revealed words, not to deny or contend with the authoritative interpretation, and not to engage in controversy; rather they should offer their thoughts as a contribution to knowledge, making it clear that their views are merely their own. — Universal House of Justice 6
Therefore, every believer must continually study the Sacred Writings and the instructions of the beloved Guardian, striving always to attain a new and better understanding of their import to him and to his society. He should pray fervently for divine guidance, wisdom and strength to do what is pleasing to God, and to serve Him at all times and to the best of his ability. — Universal House of Justice 7
Question for Consideration
Why is it necessary to go beyond the immediate meaning of a passage and think about how it finds concrete expression in our lives? 8
Perplexity Pro Response 9
The Bahá’í Faith emphasizes the importance of not only understanding spiritual teachings but also applying them in daily life, encouraging believers to reflect on how sacred passages can be translated into concrete actions that transform individuals and communities.
Deepening Understanding and Wisdom
Going beyond the immediate meaning of spiritual passages fosters a deeper understanding and wisdom that enriches one’s spiritual journey. This process involves:
- Internalizing spiritual concepts and principles through practical application [4]
- Developing discernment to navigate complex situations using spiritual guidance [7]
- Bridging the gap between abstract teachings and real-world scenarios
- Cultivating the ability to reflect daily on one’s actions and spiritual growth [4]
By engaging in this practice, Bahá’ís can more effectively embody the teachings in their lives, leading to personal growth and the development of virtues. This approach aligns with Bahá’u’lláh’s emphasis on the importance of daily prayer, meditation, and study of scripture for individual believers, [7] encouraging a continuous process of spiritual refinement and practical application of divine guidance.
Personal Transformation in Practice
Contemplating the practical application of spiritual teachings catalyzes personal transformation, aligning thoughts and actions with spiritual ideals. This process involves:
- Reflecting on how to embody virtues in daily interactions
- Identifying opportunities to apply teachings in various life situations
- Gradually reshaping habits and behaviors to reflect spiritual principles
By consistently engaging in this practice, individuals can experience profound changes in their character and worldview, fostering a more spiritually-oriented lifestyle. The Bahá’í Faith encourages believers to develop habits that support this transformation, such as daily reflection, reading the Writings morning and evening, and actively practicing virtues [4]. This approach helps Bahá’ís become “the Baha’i you’ve always wanted to be,” integrating spiritual teachings into every aspect of their lives [4].
Fostering Unity Through Consultation
Exploring concrete expressions of spiritual teachings enhances community consultation, fostering unity of thought and action among believers. This collective exploration strengthens the community’s ability to apply teachings consistently and address social issues effectively. By discussing practical applications in group settings, Bahá’ís develop a shared understanding that transcends individual interpretations, leading to more cohesive and impactful community initiatives. This approach aligns with the Bahá’í principle that “the earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens,” encouraging believers to work together in applying spiritual insights to the betterment of society [2].
Preparing for Service to Humanity
Contemplating the practical application of spiritual teachings equips believers with valuable insights for serving humanity effectively. This process enhances their capacity to translate divine guidance into meaningful action, addressing societal needs and contributing to community development. The Ruhi Institute, a key educational initiative in the Bahá’í Faith, offers courses designed to systematically build the capacity of youth and adults to serve their communities [3]. By engaging in these study circles and service projects, Bahá’ís learn to apply spiritual principles to real-world challenges, fostering a culture of learning and social transformation. This approach aligns with Bahá’u’lláh’s vision of individual and collective spiritual growth leading to the betterment of society as a whole.
By moving beyond immediate meaning to concrete expression, believers can more fully embody the teachings in their lives and contribute effectively to the betterment of society [1] [3].
Citations:
[1] Reflections on the Life of the Spirit – Ruhi Institute
[2] How do you practice your Spirituality? A Bahá’í Perspective – Columbia Community Connection
[3] Arising to Serve – Ruhi Institute (PDF)
[4] How Habits Can Help You Become the Baha’i You’ve Always Wanted to Be – Baha’i Blog
[6] Baha’i Faith: A Way of Life – Uplifting Words
[7] How Do Baha’is Practice Their Faith – BahaiTEACHINGS.ORG
[8] The Bahá’í World, Volume 28: Beyond Integration and Separation – Bahai.works
[9] Lights of Guidance: Youth – Bahai.works
Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity
- How can I apply the Bahá’í principle of service to humanity in my daily life?
- What are some ways to cultivate a spirit of service in my community?
- How do Bahá’ís balance personal growth with service to others?
- What are the benefits of practicing spirituality through service?
- How can I use Bahá’í teachings to inspire others to serve humanity?
- Bahá’u’lláh. The Tabernacle of Unity. Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 2006. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/tabernacle-unity/4#638610190. ↩
- “The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds, through commendable and seemly conduct.” — Bahá’u’lláh
Effendi, Shoghi. The Advent of Divine Justice. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1938. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/shoghi-effendi/advent-divine-justice/3#716325250. ↩ - “Truthfulness is the foundation of all the virtues of the human world, and without it prosperity and salvation are unattainable to any soul in all the worlds of God. Whensoever this holy attribute becometh securely established in one’s being, the acquisition of all heavenly virtues will be realized.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Effendi, Shoghi. The Advent of Divine Justice. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1938. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/shoghi-effendi/advent-divine-justice/3#293314070. ↩ - “O Son of Being! Bring thyself to account each day ere thou art summoned to a reckoning; for death, unheralded, shall come upon thee and thou shalt be called to give account for thy deeds.”
Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1954. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#746355706. ↩ - Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, v-vii. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩
- Bahá’u’lláh. The Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed January 1, 2025. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/kitab-i-aqdas/15#462519459. ↩
- Research Department of the Universal House of Justice, ed. A Chaste and Holy Life. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1988. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/chaste-holy-life/2#454051393. ↩
- Ruhi Institute. Walking Together on a Path of Service. 2.1.1.PE February 2024. Vol. Book 7. 14 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Foundation, 2024, 42-43. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#WLK. ↩
- Perplexity Pro. “Why is it necessary to go beyond the immediate meaning of a passage and think about how it finds concrete expression in our lives?” Edited by Steve Bosserman. January 2, 2025. ↩
Frameworks for Understanding the World 