Jalál, 08 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quotes for Reflection:

Just as man progresses, evolves, and is transformed from one form and appearance to another in the womb of the mother, while remaining from the beginning a human embryo, so too has man remained a distinct essence—that is, the human species—from the beginning of his formation in the matrix of the world, and has passed gradually from form to form. It follows that this change of appearance, this evolution of organs, and this growth and development do not preclude the originality of the species. Now, even accepting the reality of evolution and progress, nevertheless, from the moment of his appearance man has possessed perfect composition, and has had the capacity and potential to acquire both material and spiritual perfections and to become the embodiment of the verse, “Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.”(Gen. 1:26). At most, he has become more pleasing, more refined and graceful, and by virtue of civilization he has emerged from his wild state, just as the wild fruits become finer and sweeter under the cultivation of the gardener, and acquire ever greater delicacy and vitality. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

In the beginning of his life man was in the world of the womb, wherein he developed the capacity and worthiness to advance to this world. The powers necessary for this world he acquired in that world. He needed eyes in this world; he obtained them in the world of the womb. He needed ears in this world; he obtained them there. All the powers that were needed in this world he acquired in the world of the womb. In that world he became prepared for this world, and when he entered this world he saw that he possessed all the requisite powers and had acquired all the limbs and organs necessary for this life, in that world. It followeth that in this world too he must prepare for the world beyond. That which he needeth in the world of the Kingdom he must obtain and prepare here. Just as he acquired the powers necessary for this world in the world of the womb, so, likewise, he must obtain that which he will need in the world of the Kingdom—that is to say, all the heavenly powers—in this world. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ²

Question for Consideration:

What are some of the capacities the human being receives in the world of the womb? ³

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the human being receives all the powers necessary for this world in the world of the womb. These powers include:

• Physical powers: The development of the body and its organs, such as the eyes, ears, and limbs.
• Cognitive powers: The ability to learn, reason, and solve problems.
• Emotional powers: The ability to feel and express emotions such as love, compassion, and joy.
• Spiritual powers: The ability to connect with God and the divine realm.
  

In addition to these basic powers, the human being may also receive other capacities in the world of the womb, such as:

• Artistic talents such as music, painting, or writing.
• Athletic abilities such as speed, strength, or endurance.
• Intellectual gifts such as a high IQ or a special aptitude for a particular subject.
• Spiritual insights such as a deep understanding of the meaning of life or a connection to a higher power.
  

The capacities that the human being receives in the world of the womb are not random. They are tailored to the individual’s unique purpose and destiny in this life. By developing and using our capacities to the fullest, we can fulfill our potential and contribute to the betterment of the world.

It is important to note that the quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is a metaphor. It does not literally mean that the soul pre-exists the body. Rather, it is a way of understanding the development of the human being as a process that begins before birth and continues throughout life.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Some Answered Questions. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 10, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/some-answered-questions/10#816587913. ↩
2. ’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/647998761/1#755619432. ↩
3. 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, 3. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istiqlál, 07 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

In the beginning of his life man was in the world of the womb, wherein he developed the capacity and worthiness to advance to this world. The powers necessary for this world he acquired in that world. He needed eyes in this world; he obtained them in the world of the womb. He needed ears in this world; he obtained them there. All the powers that were needed in this world he acquired in the world of the womb. In that world he became prepared for this world, and when he entered this world he saw that he possessed all the requisite powers and had acquired all the limbs and organs necessary for this life, in that world. It followeth that in this world too he must prepare for the world beyond. That which he needeth in the world of the Kingdom he must obtain and prepare here. Just as he acquired the powers necessary for this world in the world of the womb, so, likewise, he must obtain that which he will need in the world of the Kingdom—that is to say, all the heavenly powers—in this world. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

Decide whether or not the following are true:
All the powers necessary for this world are acquired in the world of the womb.
There is no need to prepare oneself for life in the next world.
What we need in the world of the Kingdom must be obtained there.
The purpose of this life is to acquire the powers necessary for life in the next world.
True life begins when one dies and goes to the divine Kingdom.
True life begins in this world and continues after physical death. ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the following statements are true:

• All the powers necessary for this world are acquired in the world of the womb.
• The purpose of this life is to acquire the powers necessary for life in the next world.
• True life begins in this world and continues after physical death.
  

The other statements are not true.

The quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá teaches us that this life is a preparation for the next world. Just as we acquire the physical powers we need for this world in the womb, we must also acquire the spiritual powers we need for the next world in this world.

True life, in the Bahá’í teachings, is a continuous journey that begins in this world and continues after physical death. We can begin to experience true life now by developing our spiritual qualities, such as love, compassion, and wisdom.

As we prepare for the next world, we are not only ensuring our happiness and well-being, but we are also contributing to the betterment of all humanity. When we become more spiritually evolved, we are better able to serve others and create a more just and compassionate world.

1. ’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/647998761/1#755619432. ↩
2. 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, 38. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istijlál, 06 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

The first life, which pertaineth to the elemental body, will come to an end, as hath been revealed by God: “Every soul shall taste of death.” (Qur’án 3:185). But the second life, which ariseth from the knowledge of God, knoweth no death, as hath been revealed aforetime: “Him will We surely quicken to a blessed life.” (Qur’án 16:97). And in another passage concerning the martyrs: “Nay, they are alive and sustained by their Lord.” (Qur’án 3:169). And from the Traditions: “He who is a true believer liveth both in this world and in the world to come.” (From a Ḥadíth). Numerous examples of similar words are to be found in the Books of God and of the Embodiments of His justice. For the sake of brevity, however, We have contented Ourself with the above passages. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

Now, bearing in mind the above quote, write a short paragraph about life, death, body, and soul. ²

Google Bard Response:

Our physical existence is but a transient phase, a mere prelude to the eternal life that awaits us. Like a seed planted in the fertile soil of the earth, our souls blossom forth, nurtured by the knowledge of God. This divine knowledge is the true essence of our being, the immortal essence that transcends the limitations of our physical bodies.

Death, the inevitable end of our earthly journey, is not an end to our existence but a transition to a higher state of being. It liberates our souls from the confines of the physical realm, allowing them to fully realize their potential. For the confident believer, death is not a cause for fear but a source of joy, a gateway to the eternal bliss that awaits those who have lived a life guided by the principles of divine love and compassion.

Just as we cherish the bounties of this world, we should not fear the inevitable passage to the next. Death is not a punishment but a messenger of joy, heralding the dawn of a new and everlasting life.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gems of Divine Mysteries. Translated by Universal House of Justice. 1st ed. Haifa: Bahá’i World Centre, 2002. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gems-divine-mysteries/4#337911695 ↩
2. 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, 37. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

’Idál, 05 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quotes for Reflection:

KNOW thou that every hearing ear, if kept pure and undefiled, must, at all times and from every direction, hearken to the voice that uttereth these holy words: “Verily, we are God’s, and to Him shall we return.” The mysteries of man’s physical death and of his return have not been divulged, and still remain unread. By the righteousness of God! Were they to be revealed, they would evoke such fear and sorrow that some would perish, while others would be so filled with gladness as to wish for death, and beseech, with unceasing longing, the one true God—exalted be His glory—to hasten their end. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy, and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life. — Bahá’u’lláh ²

As to those that have tasted of the fruit of man’s earthly existence, which is the recognition of the one true God, exalted be His glory, their life hereafter is such as We are unable to describe. The knowledge thereof is with God, alone, the Lord of all worlds. — Bahá’u’lláh ³

O SON OF THE SUPREME!
I have made death a messenger of joy to thee. Wherefore dost thou grieve? I made the light to shed on thee its splendor. Why dost thou veil thyself therefrom? — Bahá’u’lláh ⁴

Question for Consideration:

Based on the quotes above, which of the following statements are true?
The soul of the human being comes from God and will return to Him.
All knowledge of life after death is with God.
For the confident believer, death is life.
Death is the bearer of gladness.
The mysteries of death are known by all.
We should treasure the bounties of life yet not be afraid of death, for it is a messenger of joy.
It is not important for us to know about life after death. ⁵

Google Bard Response:

Based on the quotes above, the following statements are true:

• The soul of the human being comes from God and will return to Him.
• All knowledge of life after death is with God.
• For the confident believer, death is life.
• Death is the bearer of gladness.
• We should treasure the bounties of life yet not be afraid of death, for it is a messenger of joy.
  

The quotes do not explicitly state that the mysteries of death are known by all. However, they suggest that some people may be fearful of death, while others may see it as a positive event. This suggests that there is not a single, universally accepted understanding of death and what it means for the soul.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 7, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#256414695. ↩
2. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 7, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#005763883. ↩
3. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 7, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#673299186. ↩
4. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 7, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#674148173. ↩
5. 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, 36-37. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Fidál, 04 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

As the spirit of man lives forever after casting off this elemental frame, it is, like all existing things, undoubtedly capable of progress, and thus one may pray for a departed soul to advance, to be forgiven, or to be made the recipient of divine favours, bounties, and grace. That is why, in the prayers of Bahá’u’lláh, the forgiveness and pardon of God are implored for those who have ascended to the next world. Moreover, just as people are in need of God in this world, so too are they in need of Him in the next. The creatures are ever in need, and God is ever completely independent of them, whether in this world or in the world to come. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

AND now concerning thy question regarding the soul of man and its survival after death. Know thou of a truth that the soul, after its separation from the body, will continue to progress until it attaineth the presence of God, in a state and condition which neither the revolution of ages and centuries, nor the changes and chances of this world, can alter. It will endure as long as the Kingdom of God, His sovereignty, His dominion and power will endure. It will manifest the signs of God and His attributes, and will reveal His loving-kindness and bounty. — Bahá’u’lláh ²

Question for Consideration:

On the basis of the above quotations, determine whether the following are true:

The Kingdom of God will last forever.
The soul has the capacity to manifest the attributes of God.
The prayers we say for the departed do not affect the progress of their souls.
The soul never ceases to exist. ³

Google Bard Response:

Based on the provided quotations, here’s the determination of whether the following statements are true:

The Kingdom of God will last forever.

True. The quotation from Bahá’u’lláh states that the Kingdom of God will endure “as long as the Kingdom of God, His sovereignty, His dominion and power will endure.” This implies that the Kingdom of God is eternal and will never cease to exist.

The soul has the capacity to manifest the attributes of God.

True. The quotation from Bahá’u’lláh states that the soul, after attaining the presence of God, will manifest “the signs of God and His attributes.” This suggests that the soul has the potential to embody divine qualities such as love, compassion, and wisdom.

The prayers we say for the departed do not affect the progress of their souls.

False. The quotation from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá states that it is “undoubtedly capable of progress, and thus one may pray for a departed soul to advance, to be forgiven, or to be made the recipient of divine favours, bounties, and grace.” This implies that prayers for the departed can play a role in their spiritual advancement.

The soul never ceases to exist.

True. The quotation from Bahá’u’lláh states that the soul “will continue to progress until it attaineth the presence of God.” This suggests that the soul is immortal and will never cease to exist.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Some Answered Questions. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 6, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/some-answered-questions/10#799280882. ↩
2. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 4, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/4#098486368. ↩
3. 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, 36. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Kamál, 03 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

When the channel of the human soul is cleansed of all worldly and impeding attachments, it will unfailingly perceive the breath of the Beloved across immeasurable distances, and will, led by its perfume, attain and enter the City of Certitude. Therein he will discern the wonders of His ancient wisdom, and will perceive all the hidden teachings from the rustling leaves of the Tree—which flourisheth in that City. With both his inner and his outer ear he will hear from its dust the hymns of glory and praise ascending unto the Lord of Lords, and with his inner eye will he discover the mysteries of “return” and “revival.” How unspeakably glorious are the signs, the tokens, the revelations, and splendors which He Who is the King of names and attributes hath destined for that City! The attainment of this City quencheth thirst without water, and kindleth the love of God without fire. Within every blade of grass are enshrined the mysteries of an inscrutable wisdom, and upon every rosebush a myriad nightingales pour out, in blissful rapture, their melody. Its wondrous tulips unfold the mystery of the undying Fire in the Burning Bush, and its sweet savors of holiness breathe the perfume of the Messianic Spirit. It bestoweth wealth without gold, and conferreth immortality without death. In every leaf ineffable delights are treasured, and within every chamber unnumbered mysteries lie hidden. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What are some of the attributes and signs the soul will manifest in that state? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to Bahá’u’lláh’s description of the City of Certitude, the soul will manifest in that state many remarkable attributes and signs, including:

1. Unfailing perception of the Beloved: The soul will be able to perceive the essence of God, or the Beloved, across immeasurable distances. This suggests a profound level of spiritual connection and understanding.
   
2. Discernment of ancient wisdom: The soul will be able to comprehend the deep and hidden meanings of spiritual teachings and traditions. This implies a heightened capacity for intellectual and spiritual insight.
   
3. Hearing the hymns of glory and praise: The soul will be able to perceive the spiritual vibrations and expressions of adoration that permeate the spiritual realm. This suggests an ability to connect with the collective consciousness of all beings.
   
4. Discovery of mysteries of “return” and “revival”: The soul will gain understanding of the cyclical nature of existence, the concept of spiritual rebirth, and the eternal progression of the soul. This implies a deepened understanding of the spiritual journey.
   
5. Unspeakable glory and splendor: The soul will experience a state of indescribable beauty, magnificence, and radiance. This suggests a realm of unimaginable spiritual bliss.
   
6. Quenching thirst without water: The soul will attain a state of spiritual fulfillment and satisfaction that transcends material needs. This implies a state of self-sufficiency and inner peace.
   
7. Kindling love of God without fire: The soul will experience an intense and boundless love for God, ignited without any external cause. This suggests a state of pure and unconditional devotion.
   
8. Mysteries enshrined in every blade of grass: Even the most seemingly insignificant things will reveal profound spiritual truths to the soul. This implies a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of all things.
   
9. Nightingales pouring out melodies: The soul will be surrounded by harmonious sounds that symbolize the joy and praise inherent in creation. This suggests a state of celestial music and harmony.
   
10. Wondrous tulips unfolding the mystery of the undying Fire: The soul will gain understanding of the eternal nature of the divine spirit, symbolized by the enduring flame. This implies a deeper comprehension of God’s attributes.
    
11. Savors of holiness breathing the perfume of the Messianic Spirit: The soul will experience a state of pure and radiant spirituality, akin to the essence of the Messiah. This suggests a state of divine grace and inspiration.
    
12. Bestowing wealth without gold: The soul will attain a state of spiritual richness and abundance that surpasses material possessions. This implies a sense of inner contentment and fulfillment.
    
13. Conferring immortality without death: The soul will transcend the limitations of physical death and achieve eternal life. This suggests a state of everlasting existence and spiritual growth.
    
14. Ineffable delights treasured in every leaf: The soul will find endless sources of joy and satisfaction in the most ordinary aspects of existence. This implies a deep appreciation for the beauty and wonder of creation.
    
15. Unnumbered mysteries hidden in every chamber: The soul will continue to discover new depths of spiritual truth and understanding throughout its journey. This suggests an unending process of spiritual exploration and enlightenment.
    

In essence, the soul’s state in the City of Certitude is characterized by profound spiritual awakening, boundless love for God, deep understanding of spiritual truths, and unending spiritual growth. It is a state of unimaginable bliss, contentment, and connection to the divine.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Kitáb-i-Íqán: The Book of Certitude. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. 1st pocket-size Ed. 1950. Reprint, Wilmette, Ill: Baháʾí Publishing Trust, 1983, 196-198. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/kitab-i-iqan/7#260105227.
   . ↩
2. 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, 36. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jamál, 02 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

AND now concerning thy question regarding the soul of man and its survival after death. Know thou of a truth that the soul, after its separation from the body, will continue to progress until it attaineth the presence of God, in a state and condition which neither the revolution of ages and centuries, nor the changes and chances of this world, can alter. It will endure as long as the Kingdom of God, His sovereignty, His dominion and power will endure. It will manifest the signs of God and His attributes, and will reveal His loving-kindness and bounty. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

In what state will the soul continue its eternal journey towards the presence of God? ²

Google Bard Response:

The Bahá’í teachings describe the soul’s eternal journey towards the presence of God as a state of increasing perfection and progress. The soul will continue to grow and learn, and will become closer to God over time.

Bahá’u’lláh has said:

“The soul, after its separation from the body, will continue to progress until it attaineth the presence of God, in a state and condition which neither the revolution of ages and centuries, nor the changes and chances of this world, can alter.”

This means that the soul’s progress is eternal and irreversible. Once the soul has attained the presence of God, it will remain in that state forever.

The Bahá’í teachings also teach that the soul will continue to manifest the signs of God and His attributes in the afterlife. This means that the soul will become more and more like God in its qualities and characteristics.

The soul will also reveal God’s loving-kindness and bounty. This means that the soul will be a source of love, compassion, and generosity to others.

Overall, the Bahá’í teachings describe the soul’s eternal journey towards the presence of God as a state of great joy, happiness, and fulfillment. The soul will be free from the limitations of the physical world and will be able to express its full potential.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 4, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/4#098486368. ↩
2. 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, 36. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jalál, 01 Qudrat (Power), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Thou hast, moreover, asked Me concerning the state of the soul after its separation from the body. Know thou, of a truth, that if the soul of man hath walked in the ways of God, it will, assuredly, return and be gathered to the glory of the Beloved. By the righteousness of God! It shall attain a station such as no pen can depict, or tongue describe. The soul that hath remained faithful to the Cause of God, and stood unwaveringly firm in His Path shall, after his ascension, be possessed of such power that all the worlds which the Almighty hath created can benefit through him. Such a soul provideth, at the bidding of the Ideal King and Divine Educator, the pure leaven that leaveneth the world of being, and furnisheth the power through which the arts and wonders of the world are made manifest. Consider how meal needeth leaven to be leavened with. Those souls that are the symbols of detachment are the leaven of the world. Meditate on this, and be of the thankful. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

How long will the soul continue to progress after physical death? ²

Google Bard Response:

The soul will continue to progress after physical death until it reaches the state of perfection. There is no limit to the soul’s development.

Bahá’u’lláh says that the soul can “attain a station such as no pen can depict, or tongue describe.” He also says that the soul can become so powerful that it can benefit all the worlds which the Almighty hath created.

This suggests that the soul has the potential to achieve a level of perfection that is beyond our wildest imagination.

The Bahá’í teachings say that the soul’s progress is determined by its own efforts and by the grace of God. If we strive to live a life of love, compassion, and service, our souls will progress more quickly.

However, even if we make mistakes, we can always repent and return to the path of righteousness. God is always willing to forgive us and to help us on our spiritual journey.

The soul’s progress is not linear. It is a process of growth and development that unfolds over time. There may be times when we experience setbacks or challenges. But if we remain steadfast in our faith and commitment to God, our souls will continue to progress.

The Bahá’í teachings offer us a hopeful and inspiring vision of the afterlife. They teach us that our souls are immortal and that we have the potential to achieve great spiritual heights.

We can all look forward to the day when we will be reunited with our souls and be able to continue our spiritual journey in the world beyond.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 3, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/4#562245346. ↩
2. 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, 36. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istiqlál, 19 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

The rational soul—the human spirit—did not descend into this body or subsist through it to begin with, that it should require some substance to depend upon after the constituent parts of the body have decomposed. On the contrary, the rational soul is the substance upon which the body depends. The rational soul is endowed from the beginning with individuality; it does not acquire it through the intermediary of the body. At most, what can be said is that the individuality and identity of the rational soul may be strengthened in this world, and that the soul may either progress and attain to the degrees of perfection or remain in the lowest abyss of ignorance and be veiled from and deprived of beholding the signs of God. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

Will we maintain our individuality after the death of our physical bodies? ²

Google Bard Response:

Yes, the Bahá’í teachings teach that we will maintain our individuality after the death of our physical bodies.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá states that the soul is “endowed from the beginning with individuality; it does not acquire it through the intermediary of the body.” This means that our individuality is a fundamental part of who we are, and it will not be lost when we die.

The soul is also described as being “the substance upon which the body depends.” This means that the soul is the primary reality, and the body is a secondary reality. The body is simply a vehicle for the soul to express itself in the physical world.

When the body dies, the soul is freed from its physical limitations and is able to continue its journey of development and growth in the spiritual world.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá also states that the individuality and identity of the soul may be strengthened in this world. This means that we can develop our individuality and identity by living a good and moral life. We can also develop our individuality and identity by pursuing our spiritual goals and aspirations.

After death, the soul continues to develop and grow in the spiritual world. The soul may progress and attain to the degrees of perfection, or it may remain in the lowest abyss of ignorance. This depends on the choices that we make in this life.

The Bahá’í teachings offer us a hopeful and inspiring vision of life after death. They teach us that we will continue to exist as individuals after we die, and that we have the opportunity to continue our journey of development and growth in the spiritual world.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Some Answered Questions. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 2, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/some-answered-questions/11#528529101. ↩
2. 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, 35. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istijlál, 18 ‘Ilm (Knowledge), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Know thou that the soul of man is exalted above, and is independent of all infirmities of body or mind. That a sick person showeth signs of weakness is due to the hindrances that interpose themselves between his soul and his body, for the soul itself remaineth unaffected by any bodily ailments. Consider the light of the lamp. Though an external object may interfere with its radiance, the light itself continueth to shine with undiminished power. In like manner, every malady afflicting the body of man is an impediment that preventeth the soul from manifesting its inherent might and power. When it leaveth the body, however, it will evince such ascendancy, and reveal such influence as no force on earth can equal. Every pure, every refined and sanctified soul will be endowed with tremendous power, and shall rejoice with exceeding gladness. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

Explain in your own words how the soul remains unaffected by the infirmities of body or mind, and what will be made evident upon its separation from the body. ²

Google Bard Response:

The soul is a spiritual being that is separate from the body. It is not affected by the same physical limitations as the body. For example, the soul cannot be sick or injured. It cannot feel pain or fatigue.

When the soul is connected to the body, it is limited by the body’s condition. For example, if the body is sick, the soul may not be able to manifest its full potential. However, the soul is still present and active, even when the body is sick.

When the soul is separated from the body, it is free from all physical limitations. It is able to manifest its full potential and to exercise its inherent might and power.

Bahá’u’lláh compares the soul to a lamp. The lamp represents the soul, and the light represents the soul’s potential. When an external object interferes with the light of the lamp, the lamp itself is not affected. It is still capable of producing light. However, the light is not able to shine as brightly.

In the same way, the soul is not affected by the infirmities of the body. It is still capable of exercising its potential. However, the potential of the soul is not able to be fully manifested when it is connected to a sick or injured body.

When the soul is separated from the body, it is free from all physical limitations. It is able to manifest its full potential and to exercise its inherent might and power.

This is what Bahá’u’lláh means when he says that the soul will “evince such ascendancy, and reveal such influence as no force on earth can equal.” He is saying that the soul will be able to do things that are impossible for the body to do.

For example, the soul will be able to perceive things that are beyond the reach of the senses. It will be able to communicate with other souls telepathically. It will be able to travel great distances instantaneously.

The soul will also be able to experience a deep sense of peace, love, and joy. It will be free from all pain and suffering.

The separation of the soul from the body is a natural process that happens to everyone. It is a transition from one state of being to another. It is a time when the soul is able to fully manifest its potential and to experience its true nature.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed November 1, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/4#240578767. ↩
2. 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, 35. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩