Daily Frameworks for 04 February 2025

Fidál, 18 Sulṭán (Sovereignty), 181 B.E.

Walking Together on a Path of Service

Quotes for Reflection:

Among His teachings was the declaration of universal peace. People of different nations, religions and sects who followed Him came together to such an extent that remarkable gatherings were instituted consisting of the various nations and religions of the East. Every soul who entered these gatherings saw but one nation, one teaching, one pathway, one order, for the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh were not limited to the establishment of universal peace. They embraced many teachings which supplemented and supported that of universal peace. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

In fine, such teachings are numerous. These manifold principles, which constitute the greatest basis for the felicity of mankind and are of the bounties of the Merciful, must be added to the matter of universal peace and combined with it, so that results may accrue. Otherwise the realization of universal peace by itself in the world of mankind is difficult. As the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh are combined with universal peace, they are like a table provided with every kind of fresh and delicious food. Every soul can find, at that table of infinite bounty, that which he desires. If the question is restricted to universal peace alone, the remarkable results which are expected and desired will not be attained. The scope of universal peace must be such that all the communities and religions may find their highest wish realized in it. The teachings of Bahá’u’lláh are such that all the communities of the world, whether religious, political or ethical, ancient or modern, find in them the expression of their highest wish. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ²

The bulk of humanity now realiseth what a great calamity war is and how war turneth man into a ferocious animal, causing prosperous cities and villages to be reduced to ruins and the foundations of the human edifice to crumble. Now, since all men have been awakened and their ears are attentive, it is time for the promulgation of universal peace—a peace based on righteousness and justice—that mankind may not be exposed to further dangers in the future. Now is the dawn of universal peace, and the first streaks of its light are beginning to appear. We earnestly hope that its effulgent orb may shine forth and flood the East and the West with its radiance. The establishment of universal peace is not possible save through the power of the Word of God. Effort must be made for the Word of God to exert its influence so that universal peace may be established. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ³

To remedy this condition there must be universal peace. To bring this about, a Supreme Tribunal must be established, representative of all governments and peoples; questions both national and international must be referred thereto, and all must carry out the decrees of this Tribunal. Should any government or people disobey, let the whole world arise against that government or people. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ⁴

Question: Is it not a fact that universal peace cannot be accomplished until there is political democracy in all the countries of the world?
Answer: It is very evident that in the future there shall be no centralization in the countries of the world, be they constitutional in government, republican or democratic in form. The United States may be held up as the example of future government—that is to say, each province will be independent in itself, but there will be federal union protecting the interests of the various independent states. It may not be a republican or a democratic form. To cast aside centralization which promotes despotism is the exigency of the time. This will be productive of international peace. Another fact of equal importance in bringing about international peace is woman’s suffrage. That is to say, when perfect equality shall be established between men and women, peace may be realized for the simple reason that womankind in general will never favor warfare. Women will not be willing to allow those whom they have so tenderly cared for to go to the battlefield. When they shall have a vote, they will oppose any cause of warfare. Another factor which will bring about universal peace is the linking together of the Orient and the Occident. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ⁵

Question for Consideration

Section 12 of the second unit, “Uplifting Conversations,” in Book 2 Arising to Serve concerns universal peace based, in part, on the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá quoted above. ⁶ How can one draw on His explanations to better understand the significance and implications of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings and feel encouraged to initiate and sustain meaningful and uplifting conversations with others about furthering the establishment of universal peace? ⁷

Perplexity Pro Response ⁸

The teachings of Bahá’u’lláh on universal peace, as expounded by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, present a comprehensive framework that integrates spiritual principles with practical actions to transform society and establish lasting global harmony. These teachings emphasize that universal peace is not only possible but inevitable, requiring both individual spiritual growth and collective efforts to address the root causes of conflict and injustice.

Foundational Principles of Universal Peace

At the core of Bahá’u’lláh’s vision for universal peace lie several foundational principles that work in harmony to create a just and unified world. These include the recognition of the oneness of humanity, the elimination of all forms of prejudice, and the establishment of a world federation [5]. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá emphasizes that enduring peace requires the alignment of science and religion to dispel ignorance and falsehood, as well as the acknowledgment of the divine origin of all religions to end religious strife [1]. Additionally, the promotion of universal education, gender equality, and improved global communication are seen as crucial prerequisites for achieving lasting peace [4].

Practical Measures for Global Peace

To achieve universal peace, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá outlines several practical measures that complement spiritual principles:

Establishment of a Supreme Tribunal: A representative body of all governments and peoples to adjudicate international disputes and enforce collective security [1].

• Decentralization of political power: Moving away from centralized governments towards a federal system, similar to the United States model, to protect diverse interests and promote international harmony [1].
• Women’s suffrage and gender equality: Recognizing that women’s full participation in governance will naturally oppose warfare and foster peace [1].
• Bridging East and West: Promoting cultural exchange and understanding between diverse civilizations to break down barriers of prejudice and misunderstanding [1].
• Universal language: Adopting a common auxiliary language to facilitate global communication and unity [5].
  

These measures, combined with spiritual transformation, form a comprehensive approach to realizing Bahá’u’lláh’s vision of a peaceful world order.

Conversations to Foster Unity

Engaging in meaningful conversations about universal peace requires a thoughtful approach that combines spiritual insights with practical considerations. Drawing on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s teachings, discussions can focus on how individual transformation contributes to collective progress. Encourage reflection on personal biases and how overcoming them fosters societal harmony [1]. Frame peace as an achievable goal, emphasizing hope and the power of unity, while addressing misconceptions about its attainability [3]. Use relatable metaphors, such as comparing spiritual and material progress to a lamp and its light, [6] to illustrate the interdependence of inner change and social transformation [5].

To sustain these conversations, highlight tangible actions that contribute to peace, such as supporting educational initiatives or advocating for equitable policies. Invite others to consider questions like “How can we create communities where diversity is celebrated as a strength?” or “What role do consultation and cooperation play in resolving conflicts?” [4]. By anchoring discussions in both spiritual truths and pragmatic solutions, we can inspire others to join in the collective journey toward a united humanity, reinforcing the Bahá’í perspective that every individual has a vital role in advancing universal peace [2].

Sustaining Hope Through Action

Transforming the vision of universal peace into reality requires sustained effort and unwavering hope. The Bahá’í writings emphasize that every individual can contribute to this global endeavor through small acts of service, whether teaching children, fostering dialogue, or promoting justice. These actions, though seemingly modest, cumulatively build a peaceful world and generate “joy and assurance” while attracting “divine confirmations” [1]. By framing peace-building as a dynamic, collective journey rather than an abstract ideal, we can inspire others to join in this transformative process.

Maintaining momentum in peace-building efforts involves recognizing progress, no matter how incremental. The Ruhi materials suggest that the “dawn of universal peace” is already emerging, with its “first streaks of light” beginning to appear [1]. This perspective encourages perseverance and optimism, even in the face of challenges. By highlighting examples of unity-building projects and community initiatives that model peaceful coexistence, we can demonstrate that progress is not only possible but actively occurring, thereby sustaining hope and motivation for continued action towards universal peace.

Citations

[1] Book 2: Arising to Serve (PDF) – Ruhi Institute

[2] THE BAHA’I TEACHINGS ON UNIVERSAL PEACE – Bahai.works

[3] Can We Ever Establish Universal Peace? – BahaiTeachings.org

[4] The Paramount Baha’i Principle: Promoting World Peace – BahaiTeachings.org

[5] Universal Peace – The Bahá’í Faith

[6] The Promulgation of Universal Peace – Bahá’í Reference Library

Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity

• How can we apply the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh to promote universal peace in our communities?
• What role does political democracy play in achieving universal peace?
• How can women’s suffrage contribute to the establishment of universal peace?
• What are some practical steps governments can take to eliminate war?
• How can international collaboration among nations help in achieving universal peace?
• How can we balance scientific progress with spiritual principles to achieve peace?
• What are the key social principles that Baha’is believe are essential for peace?
• How can we promote the equality of the sexes as a step towards universal peace?
• What role does global communication play in fostering peace and unity?
• How can we use education to dispel ignorance and prejudice?

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 298. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/10#387227850. ↩
2. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 304. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/10#242821225. ↩
3. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Additional Tablets, Extracts and Talks. Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 2018. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/additional-tablets-extracts-talks/144379666/1#563222648. ↩
4. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 249. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/9#322337152. ↩
5. ’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, 167. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/12#261588977. ↩
6. 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, v, 31. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩
7. 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, 70-72. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#WLK. ↩
8. Perplexity Pro. “Universal Peace: Teachings and Implications.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. February 2, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/among-his-teachings-was-the-de-0jZppycTTGaKrEgNNVpdcQ. ↩