Istijlál, 10 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

Incline your hearts, O people of God, unto the counsels of your true, your incomparable Friend. The Word of God may be likened unto a sapling, whose roots have been implanted in the hearts of men. It is incumbent upon you to foster its growth through the living waters of wisdom, of sanctified and holy words, so that its root may become firmly fixed and its branches may spread out as high as the heavens and beyond. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

To what may the Word of God be compared?
Where have the roots of the tree of the Word of God been planted?
How should we foster the growth of this tree?
To what heights can this tree grow? ²

Google Bard Response:

Interpreting the Metaphor of the Word of God as a Tree

In the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, the Word of God is compared to a sapling, a young tree with the potential for immense growth. Let’s break down the metaphor into its fundamental elements:

1. Comparison: The Word of God is not presented as simply information or text but as a living, dynamic entity with the potential to grow and flourish. This emphasizes its power to transform individuals and society.

2. Roots in Hearts of Men: The roots of the sapling symbolize the deep connection between the Word of God and human beings. It suggests that the teachings are meant to be internalized and integrated into our very being, not just intellectually understood.

3. Fostering Growth: Our role is not passive but active. We are called to foster the growth of the sapling through living waters. This signifies engaging with the Word of God through various practices like:

• Studying scriptures and teachings.
• Reflecting on their deeper meaning and applying them to our lives.
• Sharing the message through prayer, discussion, and service.
• Living a life guided by the teachings, embodying their principles.
  

4. The Extent of Growth: The growth potential is immense. The branches are expected to spread “as high as the heavens and beyond.” This metaphor signifies the boundless potential for spiritual progress and transformation the Word of God offers. It suggests that it can elevate us beyond earthly limitations and connect us to something greater than ourselves.

Essentially, the sapling metaphor reminds us that the Word of God is not static but a living force that can transform us from within. We are co-creators in its growth, entrusted with the responsibility to nurture it through dedication, practice, and living its principles. If we do so, the potential for our own spiritual ascent and contribution to the world is limitless.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 20, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/3#642818369. ↩
2. 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, 6. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

’Idál, 09 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O My servants! The one true God is My witness! This most great, this fathomless and surging Ocean is near, astonishingly near, unto you. Behold it is closer to you than your life-vein! Swift as the twinkling of an eye ye can, if ye but wish it, reach and partake of this imperishable favor, this God-given grace, this incorruptible gift, this most potent and unspeakably glorious bounty. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

To what does the phrase “this most great, this fathomless and surging Ocean” refer?
How close is this ocean to us?
How quickly can we reach this ocean? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, the phrase “this most great, this fathomless and surging Ocean” refers to several interconnected layers of meaning:

1. God’s Revelation: In the context of the quote, the ocean primarily symbolizes God’s Revelation. This Revelation encompasses the divine teachings, guidance, and blessings bestowed upon humanity through Messengers and Manifestations of God, such as Bahá’u’lláh Himself. It represents the infinite source of spiritual truth, knowledge, and grace accessible to everyone.

2. Spiritual Potential: The surging and fathomless nature of the ocean also suggests the vastness and depth of our own spiritual potential. It signifies the limitless possibilities for growth, transformation, and connection with God through immersion in the Revelation.

3. Divine Unity: The ocean can also be seen as a metaphor for the underlying unity of all creation. Just as water connects and merges across vast distances, the Revelation emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the ultimate Oneness of God.

Closeness of the Ocean:

The quote emphasizes the astonishing nearness of the ocean. It states that it is “closer to you than your life-vein,” signifying that access to God’s Revelation and the potential for spiritual awakening is readily available and not some distant or unattainable goal. This closeness symbolizes the inherent connection each soul has with the divine source.

Reaching the Ocean:

The quote encourages us to actively reach and partake of the ocean’s imperishable favor. It emphasizes the importance of our initiative and effort in accessing the blessings of the Revelation. While the potential is within reach, we must “wish it” and take steps to connect with it. This could involve spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, studying scriptures, and aligning our lives with the principles of the Revelation.

Speed of Reaching the Ocean:

The quote highlights the potential for swiftness in reaching the ocean. It uses the “twinkling of an eye” metaphor to suggest that spiritual transformation and connection with God can happen relatively quickly, depending on our dedication and sincerity. However, it’s important to remember that it’s a continuous journey of exploration and growth, not a one-time event.

The quote offers a powerful image of God’s Revelation as a readily accessible ocean of blessings, urging us to actively immerse ourselves in its depths and unlock our spiritual potential. It emphasizes the divine gift available to all and our responsibility to seek it out and nurture its blossoming within us.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 19, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#413529355. ↩
2. 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, 5. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Fidál, 08 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O My servants! My holy, My divinely ordained Revelation may be likened unto an ocean in whose depths are concealed innumerable pearls of great price, of surpassing luster. It is the duty of every seeker to bestir himself and strive to attain the shores of this ocean, so that he may, in proportion to the eagerness of his search and the efforts he hath exerted, partake of such benefits as have been preordained in God’s irrevocable and hidden Tablets. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

What does it mean for one thing to be “in proportion” to another?
Bahá’u’lláh tells us that we will receive the benefits of the ocean of His Revelation in proportion to the efforts we exert.
Give some examples of the efforts we exert that make us the recipients of these benefits.
Give some examples of the benefits we receive. ²

Google Bard Response:

In the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, “in proportion to” means that the amount of benefits we receive from the “ocean of His Revelation” corresponds to the level of effort and dedication we put into seeking them. It’s not a linear relationship, but one where more dedicated effort unlocks more profound benefits.

Examples of Efforts We Exert

• Studying the Baha’i scriptures and teachings: Regularly reading and reflecting on texts like the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, and Gleanings from the Writings of the Baha’i Faith gives us a foundational understanding of the Revelation’s principles and insights.
• Prayer and meditation: Connecting with God through prayer and meditation deepens our spiritual connection and opens us to the Revelation’s transformative power.
• Attending Baha’i gatherings and communities: Immerse ourselves in a supportive environment where we can learn from others, share experiences, and grow together in understanding the Revelation.
• Putting Baha’i principles into practice: Striving to embody the Revelation’s teachings in our daily lives through such qualities as love, unity, justice, and service to humanity demonstrates our commitment and opens us to its practical benefits.
• Serving others and contributing to the betterment of society: Applying the Revelation’s message of universal peace and oneness to actions like interfaith dialogue, volunteering, and promoting social justice aligns our lives with its purpose and brings blessings to ourselves and others.
  

Examples of Benefits We Receive

• Spiritual growth and transformation: The Revelation offers a path to develop our spiritual qualities, overcome self-centeredness, and cultivate closer connection with God.
• Greater understanding of life’s purpose and meaning: The teachings provide insights into the nature of reality, our place in the universe, and the purpose of our existence, offering clarity and direction in life.
• Inner peace and contentment: By aligning ourselves with the principles of love, unity, and forgiveness in the Revelation, we can find inner peace and cultivate a sense of well-being and joy.
• Guidance and assistance in overcoming challenges: The teachings offer wisdom and practical tools to navigate life’s challenges, find strength in difficult times, and make decisions per divine principles.
• Contribution to a better world: By actively applying the Revelation’s message of unity and justice, we can build a more peaceful and harmonious society for all.
  

Remember, the more we “bestir ourselves” and actively seek the pearls of the ocean, the more opportunities we open ourselves to receive these incredible benefits. It’s a continuous journey of exploration, learning, and transformation, with ever-deeper treasures waiting to be discovered as we dedicate ourselves to the path of the Revelation.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 18, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#413529355. ↩
2. 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, 3-4. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Kamál, 07 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O My servants! My holy, My divinely ordained Revelation may be likened unto an ocean in whose depths are concealed innumerable pearls of great price, of surpassing luster. It is the duty of every seeker to bestir himself and strive to attain the shores of this ocean, so that he may, in proportion to the eagerness of his search and the efforts he hath exerted, partake of such benefits as have been preordained in God’s irrevocable and hidden Tablets. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

What does it mean to “bestir” oneself?
What does it mean to “strive to attain” something?
What should every seeker strive to attain? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the context of the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, the words “bestir” and “strive to attain” take on specific meanings related to spiritual growth and understanding His divine Revelation:

To bestir oneself:

• Meaning: This goes beyond simply waking up or becoming active. It implies a deliberate and focused effort to overcome inertia and pursue spiritual knowledge and understanding. It requires a proactive approach, pushing aside distractions and laziness to dedicate oneself to the task.
  
• Application: This could involve actively studying Bahá’u’lláh’s writings, praying and meditating, participating in spiritual gatherings, and seeking guidance from knowledgeable individuals. It means actively engaging with the teachings and applying them to your life.
  

To strive to attain:

• Meaning: This is not just a passive desire or hope. It signifies a determined and persistent effort to reach a specific goal and overcome the obstacles and challenges one encounters. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to invest time and energy in the process.
  
• Application: In this context, “striving to attain” could involve deepening your understanding of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings, internalizing their principles, and practicing them daily. It means actively transforming your thoughts, behaviors, and relationships to align with the Revelation’s message.
  

What every seeker should strive to attain:

• The pearls of great price: The quote describes Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation as an ocean containing “innumerable pearls of great price.” These pearls represent His teachings’ spiritual insights, knowledge, and guidance.
  
• Spiritual understanding and growth: Every seeker should strive to attain a deeper understanding of these pearls, uncovering their meaning and applying them to their lives. This involves developing spiritual qualities like faith, love, and compassion and aligning oneself with God’s will.
  
• Preordained benefits in God’s Tablets: The quote also mentions “benefits preordained in God’s irrevocable and hidden Tablets.” These benefits could be interpreted as the spiritual rewards and blessings that await those who sincerely seek and strive to understand Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.
  

Therefore, the quote’s message is one of active engagement and dedicated effort. It encourages us to take initiative and invest ourselves in the process of spiritual growth and understanding. By “bestirring” ourselves and “striving to attain” the pearls of wisdom within Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation, we can unlock its hidden treasures and experience the transformative power of His teachings.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 17, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#413529355. ↩
2. 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, 3-4. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Jamál, 06 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O My servants! Sorrow not if, in these days and on this earthly plane, things contrary to your wishes have been ordained and manifested by God, for days of blissful joy, of heavenly delight, are assuredly in store for you. Worlds, holy and spiritually glorious, will be unveiled to your eyes. You are destined by Him, in this world and hereafter, to partake of their benefits, to share in their joys, and to obtain a portion of their sustaining grace. To each and every one of them you will, no doubt, attain. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

Why should we not be filled with sorrow when things contrary to our wishes come to pass?
What promise does Bahá’u’lláh make to us in this passage? ²

Google Bard Response:

Why we shouldn’t be filled with sorrow when things contrary to our wishes come to pass:

• God’s plan is greater than ours: The quote emphasizes that God has a much broader and more perfect plan than we can imagine. Things that seem contrary to our desires may be part of God’s divine plan for our growth and development.
  
• Temporary setbacks lead to future blessings: The quote assures us that our challenges are temporary and serve a purpose. They help us learn, grow, and ultimately lead us to “blissful joy” and “heavenly delight” in the future.
  
• Focus on the bigger picture: Dwelling on sorrows can prevent us from appreciating the blessings already present in our lives and hinder our spiritual progress. The quote encourages us to keep our eyes on the ultimate goal of spiritual fulfillment and joy.
  
• Trust in God’s unfailing love: The quote reminds us that God is loving and merciful. Even when things seem difficult, His love remains constant. Trusting in His love can give us the strength to face challenges and maintain hope for the future.
  

Baha’u’lláh’s promise in this passage:

• Days of blissful joy and heavenly delight: The quote explicitly promises a future filled with immense happiness and spiritual fulfillment. This future state is described as “holy and spiritually glorious,” exceeding anything we can experience in this world.
  
• Partaking in the benefits of holy worlds: Bahá’u’lláh promises that we will experience joy in the next world and actively participate in the blessings and opportunities offered by these “holy and spiritually glorious worlds.”
  
• Receiving God’s sustaining grace: The quote assures us that we will receive a portion of God’s grace: His constant love and support. This grace will help us navigate life’s challenges and ultimately attain our spiritual potential.
  
• Universal attainment: The quote emphasizes that this promise is not reserved for a select few. It states, “To each and every one of them you will, no doubt, attain.” This message of universal inclusion offers hope and encouragement to everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
  

Overall, Bahá’u’lláh’s message is one of hope and reassurance. He encourages us to overcome our sorrows and focus on the greater promise of joy and fulfillment that awaits us. By trusting in God’s plan and embracing the challenges of this life, we can prepare ourselves to experience the blessings of the holy and spiritually glorious worlds that lie ahead.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 16, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#572973655. ↩
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, 50-51. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jalál, 05 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O My servants! Sorrow not if, in these days and on this earthly plane, things contrary to your wishes have been ordained and manifested by God, for days of blissful joy, of heavenly delight, are assuredly in store for you. Worlds, holy and spiritually glorious, will be unveiled to your eyes. You are destined by Him, in this world and hereafter, to partake of their benefits, to share in their joys, and to obtain a portion of their sustaining grace. To each and every one of them you will, no doubt, attain. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

Decide which of the following are true:
We should be filled with sorrow when things are not the way we want them to be.
All, be it good or bad, is ordained by God.
Days of blissful joy are awaiting all of us.
We are sure to see worlds that are holy and spiritually glorious.
It is our destiny to partake of the benefits of worlds that are holy and spiritually glorious, both in this life and in the life hereafter. ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, the following statements are true:

• Days of blissful joy are awaiting all of us: The quote emphasizes that despite current challenges, we can look forward to a future filled with joy and delight in the spiritual realms. This message of hope encourages us to maintain perspective and trust in God’s ultimate plan.
  
• We are sure to see worlds that are holy and spiritually glorious: The quote promises that we will be exposed to worlds beyond our current understanding, filled with spiritual beauty and wonder. This adds to the message of hope and encourages us to strive for spiritual growth.
  
• It is our destiny to partake of the benefits of worlds that are holy and spiritually glorious, both in this life and in the life hereafter: The quote emphasizes that our potential for spiritual fulfillment extends beyond this earthly plane. It assures us that we can experience the blessings and benefits of these holy worlds both in this life and the next.
  

The following statements are false:

• We should be filled with sorrow when things are not the way we want them to be: While the quote acknowledges that we may experience challenges and things may not always go as planned, it encourages acceptance and trust in God’s wisdom. Sorrow is not the intended response but a perspective of faith and hope.
  
• All, be it good or bad, is ordained by God: The quote doesn’t explicitly address the concept of good and bad. It focuses on God’s ultimate plan and assures us that even challenging experiences can contribute to our spiritual growth. Therefore, a more nuanced understanding of God’s role in human experience is presented, rather than a simple binary of good and bad ordained by Him.
  

In conclusion, the quote from Bahá’u’lláh offers hope and reassurance when facing challenges. It emphasizes that despite present difficulties, we can look forward to a future filled with joy and spiritual fulfillment, both in this life and the hereafter. It encourages us to maintain perspective, trust God’s plan, and strive for spiritual growth.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 15, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/8#572973655. ↩
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, 50-51. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istiqlál, 04 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

The people of Bahá, who are the inmates of the Ark of God, are, one and all, well aware of one another’s state and condition, and are united in the bonds of intimacy and fellowship. Such a state, however, must depend upon their faith and their conduct. They that are of the same grade and station are fully aware of one another’s capacity, character, accomplishments and merits. They that are of a lower grade, however, are incapable of comprehending adequately the station, or of estimating the merits, of those that rank above them. Each shall receive his share from thy Lord. Blessed is the man that hath turned his face towards God, and walked steadfastly in His love, until his soul hath winged its flight unto God, the Sovereign Lord of all, the Most Powerful, the Ever-Forgiving, the All-Merciful. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

On what will differences and distinctions among souls in the next world depend?
Will anyone be deprived of God’s grace? ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, the differences and distinctions among souls in the next world will depend primarily on two factors:

Faith and Conduct: The quote emphasizes that the awareness and understanding of each other’s state and condition are directly linked to one’s faith and conduct. Those who adhere firmly to the principles of Bahá’u’lláh and live righteous lives will possess a higher level of spiritual understanding and be able to recognize and appreciate the merits of others who are at a similar level.

Spiritual Development: The quote suggests a hierarchical structure in the afterlife, where souls at higher levels have a deeper understanding and appreciation of those below them, while those at lower levels may not fully grasp the accomplishments and merits of those above. This indicates that spiritual growth and development continue even in the next world, and one’s position is determined by their progress on the spiritual path.

Regarding the question of God’s grace: The quote explicitly states, “Each shall receive his share from thy Lord.” This suggests that regardless of their position in the next world, everyone will receive some degree of God’s grace and blessings. However, the nature and extent of this grace may differ depending on one’s level of faith, conduct, and spiritual development.

Therefore, while the quote acknowledges differences and distinctions among souls in the next world, it ultimately emphasizes the universality of God’s grace and the potential for continued spiritual growth. It encourages individuals to strive towards a life of faith and righteousness to reach higher levels of understanding and connection, both with others and with God.

It’s important to remember that the nature of the afterlife remains a mystery, and interpretations of these kinds of passages can vary. The quote provides a glimpse into a possible experience, but it’s crucial to approach it with humility and respect for the unknown.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 14, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/5#469288886. ↩
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, 50. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istijlál, 03 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

AND now concerning thy question whether human souls continue to be conscious one of another after their separation from the body. Know thou that the souls of the people of Bahá, who have entered and been established within the Crimson Ark, shall associate and commune intimately one with another, and shall be so closely associated in their lives, their aspirations, their aims and strivings as to be even as one soul. They are indeed the ones who are well-informed, who are keen-sighted, and who are endued with understanding. Thus hath it been decreed by Him Who is the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

In the next world, will we recognize people we have known in this world?
How close will the association between souls be in the next world? ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the provided quote from Bahá’u’lláh, we can make some inferences about the nature of consciousness and connection in the next world, specifically for the souls of those who have reached the “Crimson Ark,” a symbol of spiritual attainment within the Bahá’í faith.

Will we recognize people we have known in this world?

The quote doesn’t explicitly address whether individual identities remain fully intact after death. However, it suggests a profound connection and association between the souls of the Bahá’í faithful. The use of phrases like “intimately one with another” and “even as one soul” imply a transcendence of individual boundaries while retaining some sense of shared history and connection.

Therefore, it’s possible that while the form of recognition might differ from earthly interactions, a deep sense of connection and familiarity with those we knew in this life could still exist in the next world.

How close will the association between souls be in the next world?

The quote paints a picture of remarkable closeness and unity between the souls in the Crimson Ark. They are described as sharing lives, aspirations, aims, and strivings “as to be even as one soul.” This suggests a level of connection beyond mere recognition, where individual identities merge into a shared consciousness with deep understanding and empathy for each other.

However, it’s important to note that this level of unity is attributed to those who have achieved a certain level of spiritual development and entered the Crimson Ark. The quote doesn’t necessarily speak to the experience of all souls in the afterlife.

Ultimately, the nature of consciousness and connection in the next world remains a mystery, open to speculation and interpretation. The quote offers a glimpse into a possible experience for those who have dedicated themselves to the Bahá’í teachings, emphasizing the profound unity and understanding that may await those who have reached the Crimson Ark.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 13, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/5#090148159. ↩
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, 50. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

’Idál, 02 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Consider how a being, in the world of the womb, was deaf of ear and blind of eye, and mute of tongue; how he was bereft of any perceptions at all. But once, out of that world of darkness, he passed into this world of light, then his eye saw, his ear heard, his tongue spoke. In the same way, once he hath hastened away from this mortal place into the Kingdom of God, then he will be born in the spirit; then the eye of his perception will open, the ear of his soul will hearken, and all the truths of which he was ignorant before will be made plain and clear. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

Decide whether the following statements are true:
When we are in the world of the womb, we know about this world.
Our condition after death is a truth hidden to us in this life.
Horizons, entirely new, will open before us after death.
When we die, we return to this world to be born again. ²

Google Bard Response:

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

• Our condition after death is a truth hidden to us in this life. The quote uses the analogy of a fetus not knowing about the outside world to illustrate that our understanding of the afterlife is limited in our present state. We can speculate and believe, but the full experience remains a mystery until we pass on.
  
• Horizons, entirely new, will open before us after death. The quote describes the experience of entering the “Kingdom of God” after death as being born in the spirit and gaining new perceptions and understanding. This suggests a level of knowledge and awareness beyond what we can currently comprehend.
  

The following statements are false:

• When we are in the world of the womb, we know about this world. The quote describes the fetus as “deaf, blind, and mute,” highlighting its lack of awareness of the outside world. This analogy suggests that our understanding in the womb is limited, similar to how our understanding of the afterlife is limited in this life.
  
• When we die, we return to this world to be born again. The quote emphasizes the concept of “hastening away from this mortal place” and “entering the Kingdom of God.” This suggests a one-way journey, not a return to this life. Reincarnation is not a concept explicitly supported by the quote.
  

It’s important to remember that the quote offers a metaphorical perspective on the afterlife. It encourages us to embrace the mystery and trust the process of spiritual evolution, even if the specifics remain unclear.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 177. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/7#954600239. ↩
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, 49. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Fidál, 01 Masá’il (Questions), 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

Question for Consideration:

Why should we pray for the souls of the departed? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the passage from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, there are several reasons why we should pray for the souls of the departed:

1. The soul continues to progress after death: The passage emphasizes that the spirit of man lives on after leaving the body and is capable of further growth and development. Therefore, our prayers can contribute to their ongoing spiritual progress.

2. Seeking forgiveness and divine blessings: We can pray for the departed to be forgiven for their past mistakes and receive God’s mercy, bounties, and grace. This reflects the belief that God’s forgiveness and love extend beyond this life.

3. Continuing dependence on God: Just as we rely on God in this world, our dependence on Him continues in the next. Our prayers acknowledge this dependence and acknowledge that the departed still need God’s guidance and support.

4. Compassion and connection: Praying for the departed allows us to express our love, compassion, and connection to them even after they have passed away. It also demonstrates our belief in the continuity of the soul’s existence and our hope for their well-being in the afterlife.

5. Sharing in the spiritual community: Praying for the departed is seen as an act of service and contributes to the unity and well-being of the entire spiritual community. It reflects the interconnectedness of all souls and our responsibility to support each other, both in this life and the next.

In summary, praying for the souls of the departed is a way to express our love, compassion, and hope for their continued spiritual growth and well-being in the afterlife. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing connection we share with them and our dependence on God’s mercy and grace.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Some Answered Questions. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 11, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/some-answered-questions/10#799280882. ↩
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, 48. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩