Daily Frameworks for 20 March 2025

Istijlál, 01 Bahá (Splendor), 182 B.E.

Naw-Rúz

Walking Together on a Path of Service

Quotes for Reflection:

Purge out thoroughly their ears, O my Lord, that they may hearken unto the sweet melodies that have ascended from the right hand of the throne of Thy glory. I swear by Thy might! Were any one to attune his ears to their harmony he would soar up to the kingdom of Thy revelation, wherein every created thing proclaimeth that Thou art God, and that there is none other God save Thee, the Omnipotent, the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsisting. Cleanse Thou, O my God, the eyes of Thy servants, and so transport them by the sweetness of Thine utterances that calamities will be powerless to hinder them from turning unto Thee, and from directing their eyes towards the horizon of Thy Revelation. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

It is natural for the heart and spirit to take pleasure and enjoyment in all things that show forth symmetry, harmony, and perfection. For instance: a beautiful house, a well designed garden, a symmetrical line, a graceful motion, a well written book, pleasing garments—in fact, all things that have in themselves grace or beauty are pleasing to the heart and spirit—therefore, it is most certain that a true voice causes deep pleasure. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ²

Consider the flowers of a garden: though differing in kind, color, form and shape, yet, inasmuch as they are refreshed by the waters of one spring, revived by the breath of one wind, invigorated by the rays of one sun, this diversity increaseth their charm, and addeth unto their beauty. Thus when that unifying force, the penetrating influence of the Word of God, taketh effect, the difference of customs, manners, habits, ideas, opinions and dispositions embellisheth the world of humanity. This diversity, this difference is like the naturally created dissimilarity and variety of the limbs and organs of the human body, for each one contributeth to the beauty, efficiency and perfection of the whole. When these different limbs and organs come under the influence of man’s sovereign soul, and the soul’s power pervadeth the limbs and members, veins and arteries of the body, then difference reinforceth harmony, diversity strengtheneth love, and multiplicity is the greatest factor for coordination. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ³

Although the body politic is one family, yet, because of lack of harmonious relations some members are comfortable and some in direst misery; some members are satisfied and some are hungry; some members are clothed in most costly garments and some families are in need of food and shelter. Why? Because this family lacks the necessary reciprocity and symmetry. This household is not well arranged. This household is not living under a perfect law. All the laws which are legislated do not ensure happiness. They do not provide comfort. Therefore, a law must be given to this family by means of which all the members of this family will enjoy equal well-being and happiness. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ⁴

Question for Consideration

Section 3 of Unit 3, “Promoting the Arts at the Grassroots,” in Book 7: Walking Together on a Path of Service considers how one’s heart and spirit take pleasure and enjoyment in all things that show forth symmetry, harmony, and perfection. What are some of the things one sees or hears in daily life that are pleasing to the heart and spirit? What are some things one may have experienced when participating in community affairs or in the study of the institute courses that one would describe as graceful and beautiful? ⁵

Perplexity Pro Response ⁶

In exploring the concept of harmony and beauty as discussed in Section 3 of Unit 3, “Promoting the Arts at the Grassroots,” in Book 7 of the Ruhi Institute series, we can reflect on various aspects of daily life and community activities that embody these qualities.

Things Pleasing to the Heart and Spirit in Daily Life

• Nature and Gardens: Beautifully designed gardens, with their symmetrical layouts and vibrant colors, evoke a sense of harmony and peace. The diversity of flowers, trees, and other plants, similar to the diversity in human society, contributes to the overall beauty when nurtured by common elements like sunlight and water.
• Architecture and Design: Well-designed buildings and homes, with their balance of form and function, can inspire a sense of wonder and appreciation. Symmetrical lines and harmonious proportions in architecture are pleasing to the eye and spirit.
• Music and Melodies: The harmony and rhythm in music can uplift and inspire, creating a deep connection to the soul. The sweet melodies mentioned in Bahá’u’lláh’s prayers are an example of how sound can transport us to a higher realm of understanding and unity.
• Literature and Poetry: A well-written book or poem, with its use of language and structure, can evoke emotions and inspire reflection. The beauty of words can convey profound truths and insights, touching both heart and spirit.
• Art and Craftsmanship: Beautifully crafted items, whether they be paintings, sculptures, or handmade crafts, reflect the creativity and skill of their creators. These works of art can bring joy and a sense of connection to those who experience them.
  

Experiences in Community Affairs and Institute Courses

• Unity in Diversity: Community gatherings where people from diverse backgrounds come together in harmony, celebrating their differences while united in a common purpose, can be a powerful example of beauty and grace. This unity in diversity is akin to the flowers in a garden, each unique yet nourished by the same source.
• Acts of Service: Participating in acts of service, such as teaching children’s classes or animating junior youth groups, can be deeply fulfilling. These activities not only contribute to the betterment of society but also foster personal growth and a sense of purpose.
• Study Circles and Reflections: Engaging in study circles and reflecting on spiritual texts can create a sense of harmony and understanding among participants. The process of learning and growing together strengthens bonds and deepens insights, much like the harmony found in music.
• Community Events: Organizing or participating in community events, such as festivals or service projects, can bring people together in a spirit of cooperation and joy. These events often highlight the beauty of collective effort and shared purpose.
  

In both daily life and community activities, the pursuit of harmony and beauty reflects a deeper longing for unity and perfection. This quest is central to the Bahá’í teachings, which emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating diversity as a source of strength and beauty in the world.

Perplexity Pro Response — Deeper Dive

The Ruhi Institute’s Book 7, “Walking Together on a Path of Service, explores the profound connection between harmony, beauty, and spiritual growth, inviting participants to reflect on how these elements manifest in daily life and community activities.

Harmony in Daily Life

In our everyday surroundings, we encounter numerous sources of beauty and harmony that uplift the spirit. Well-designed gardens showcase nature’s symmetry, while architectural marvels demonstrate human creativity in form and function. The rhythm and melody of music can transport listeners to higher realms of understanding, as alluded to in Bahá’u’lláh’s prayers [1]. Literature and poetry, when crafted with skill, evoke deep emotions and insights. Even simple objects, when made with care and artistry, can bring joy to those who appreciate them. These experiences of beauty in daily life reflect the Bahá’í teaching that the heart naturally delights in symmetry, harmony, and perfection. By cultivating an awareness of these elements, individuals can enhance their spiritual perception and find greater meaning in their surroundings.

Unity in Community Diversity

Community gatherings exemplify the beauty of unity in diversity, mirroring the garden metaphor where diverse flowers contribute to a harmonious whole. These events, whether cultural celebrations or service projects, showcase how differences in customs, ideas, and backgrounds can enrich collective experiences [1]. Participants often describe a sense of grace and beauty in witnessing diverse individuals coming together with a shared purpose, reinforcing ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s teaching that “difference reinforceth harmony, diversity strengtheneth love, and multiplicity is the greatest factor for coordination” [2].

• Festivals celebrating various cultures
• Collaborative art projects involving community members
• Interfaith dialogues and shared spiritual reflections
• Inclusive decision-making processes in community affairs
• Multilingual devotional gatherings
  

Acts of Service and Growth

Engaging in acts of service, such as teaching children’s classes or animating junior youth groups, offers profound experiences of grace and beauty. These activities not only contribute to community development but also foster personal growth and a sense of purpose. Participants often describe a deep fulfillment in witnessing the transformation of young minds and the strengthening of community bonds. The process of organizing and implementing these services exemplifies the harmony that can arise from collective effort, reflecting the Bahá’í principle of unity in action [1].

• Teaching children’s classes nurtures spiritual and moral development
• Junior youth empowerment programs foster leadership and social responsibility
• Community service projects demonstrate the beauty of collective action
• Organizing devotional gatherings creates spaces for spiritual reflection and unity
• Home visits for the elderly or sick showcase the grace of compassionate service
  

Reflections Through Study Circles

Study circles and reflective gatherings provide unique opportunities for participants to experience beauty and grace in their spiritual journey. These collaborative learning environments foster deep connections among individuals as they explore sacred texts and engage in meaningful discussions. The process of collective study often reveals insights that transcend individual understanding, creating a harmonious atmosphere of shared growth and discovery. Participants frequently describe these experiences as transformative, noting how the collective exploration of spiritual concepts can lead to a profound sense of unity and purpose, much like the “sweet melodies” mentioned in Bahá’u’lláh’s writings that elevate the soul [1]. Through these study circles, individuals not only deepen their understanding of spiritual principles but also develop a greater appreciation for the diversity of perspectives within their community, reinforcing the idea that multiplicity strengthens coordination and love [2].

Citations

[1] Book 7: Walking Together on a Path of Service (PDF) – Ruhi Institute

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

Follow-Up Questions Proposed by Perplexity

• How can one’s heart and spirit be nourished by the beauty of nature?
• What role does harmony play in fostering a sense of community?
• How can the principles of symmetry and perfection be applied in daily life?
• What are some examples of beautiful and harmonious creations in the world?
• How does the concept of diversity contribute to the beauty of a community?

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Prayers and Meditations by Baháʼuʼlláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. 1938. Reprint, Wilmette, IL: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1974, 171. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/prayers-meditations/5#429678296. ↩
2. Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. “The Importance of the Arts in Promoting the Faith.” Bahá’í Reference Library, August 1998. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/importance-art/4#796188175. ↩
3. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 291. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/10#826972278. ↩
4. ’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. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/22#697627256. ↩
5. 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, 134-135. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#WLK. ↩
6. Perplexity Pro. “Promoting Arts at the Grassroots.” Edited by Steve Bosserman. March 18, 2025. https://www.perplexity.ai/search/purge-out-thoroughly-their-ear-87v5i2KPQ2afZnVqC5FrLQ. ↩