Kamál, 19 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

He should forgive the sinful, and never despise his low estate, for none knoweth what his own end shall be. How often hath a sinner attained, at the hour of death, to the essence of faith, and, quaffing the immortal draught, hath taken his flight unto the Concourse on high! And how often hath a devout believer, at the hour of his soul’s ascension, been so changed as to fall into the nethermost fire! — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

Do we know beforehand how and when our earthly life will end?
What can we do now to attain the eternal life destined for us? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote by Bahá’u’lláh, we do not know beforehand how and when our earthly life will end. He uses the example of a sinner attaining faith at the hour of death and a devout believer losing faith at the same moment to illustrate the unpredictable nature of our spiritual journey.

While the timing and manner of our passing are beyond our control, Bahá’u’lláh offers guidance on how we can prepare ourselves for the afterlife and attain the eternal life destined for us:

1. Forgive the sinful: This practice cultivates compassion and understanding and releases us from negative emotions like anger and resentment, which can hinder spiritual progress.

2. Avoid despising anyone: Judging others based on their perceived shortcomings can create distance and prevent us from recognizing the potential for spiritual growth within everyone.

3. Focus on your own shortcomings: Instead of looking outwards, introspection allows us to identify and address our own flaws and imperfections, facilitating self-improvement and spiritual development.

4. Strive for continuous self-improvement: This involves actively seeking knowledge, practicing spiritual disciplines like prayer and meditation, and aligning our lives with the teachings of the Manifestation of God for our time.

5. Serve humanity: Engaging in acts of service, such as helping others, contributing to society, and promoting the welfare of all, is considered a form of worshipping God and contributes to our spiritual growth.

6. Develop a pure and loving heart: Cultivating qualities like love, compassion, generosity, and humility are essential for attaining spiritual maturity and entering the heavenly realms.

7. Seek guidance from the Manifestations of God: Studying the teachings of Prophets and Messengers like Bahá’u’lláh provides us with a framework for understanding our spiritual purpose and navigating the path towards eternal life.

By dedicating ourselves to these practices, we can cultivate the necessary qualities and prepare our souls for the journey after death. While we may not know the specifics of what awaits us, we can find solace in the promise of eternal life and strive to make the most of our time on Earth.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 10, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/7#568533901. ↩
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, 47-48. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jamál, 18 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Blessed is the soul which, at the hour of its separation from the body, is sanctified from the vain imaginings of the peoples of the world. Such a soul liveth and moveth in accordance with the Will of its Creator, and entereth the all-highest Paradise. The Maids of Heaven, inmates of the loftiest mansions, will circle around it, and the Prophets of God and His chosen ones will seek its companionship. With them that soul will freely converse, and will recount unto them that which it hath been made to endure in the path of God, the Lord of all worlds. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

In what condition will a soul sanctified from vain imaginings live and move after death?
Who will be the companions of such a soul?
Will such a soul be able to converse with the Prophets of God and His chosen ones? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote by Bahá’u’lláh, a soul sanctified from vain imaginings will live and move after death in several specific realities:

Condition:

• Sanctified from the vain imaginings of the peoples of the world: This means that the soul is free from worldly desires, attachments, and distractions. It has achieved a state of spiritual purity and detachment.
• Lives and moves in accordance with the Will of its Creator: This indicates that the soul is wholly aligned with God’s purpose and desires. Its actions and thoughts are guided by divine inspiration.
• Enters the all-highest Paradise: This refers to the highest level of spiritual attainment, a place of unimaginable beauty and joy.
  

Companions:

• Maids of Heaven: These angelic beings serve God and guide souls to the afterlife.
• Inmates of the loftiest mansions: These are highly spiritual beings who have attained a high level of closeness to God.
• Prophets of God and His chosen ones: These individuals have been divinely appointed to guide humanity.
  

Conversation:

• Freely converse: The soul can communicate freely with these exalted beings, sharing their experiences and receiving guidance.
• Recount the challenges endured in the path of God: This indicates that the soul will be recognized for its sacrifices and efforts in serving God.
  

Overall, the quote paints a picture of a blessed and fulfilling afterlife for those who dedicate themselves to God and live a life free from worldly attachments. They will be surrounded by love, beauty, and wisdom, and their efforts will be recognized and rewarded.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 7, 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, 47-48. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jalál, 17 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Wherefore, O ye lovers of the beauty of the All-Glorious! O ye that ardently seek the court of the presence of the Almighty! This is the day of nearness and reunion, not the time for contention and idle words. If ye be sincere lovers, behold the beauty of the Best-Beloved shining clear and resplendent as the true morn. It behoveth you to be free from all attachment, whether to yourselves or to others; nay, ye should renounce existence and non-existence, light and darkness, glory and abasement alike. Sever your hearts from all transitory things, from all idle fancies and vain imaginings, that ye may, pure and unsullied, enter the realm of the spirit and partake with radiant hearts of the splendors of everlasting holiness. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What are some vain imaginings? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the context of the quote by Bahá’u’lláh, “vain imaginings” can refer to a broad range of thoughts and feelings that distract us from God and prevent us from achieving spiritual progress. Here are some examples:

Worldly desires and attachments:

• Obsessive focus on material possessions and wealth.
• Excessive ambition and desire for power.
• Unhealthy attachment to physical appearance and beauty.
• Clinging to the past and dwelling on regrets.
• Fear of the future and uncertainty.
  

Selfish thoughts and motivations:

• Pride and arrogance.
• Jealousy and envy.
• Judgment and criticism of others.
• Resentment and anger.
• Self-pity and victim mentality.
  

Idle thoughts and distractions:

• Daydreaming and fantasizing about unreal scenarios.
• Wasting time on meaningless pursuits and activities.
• Engaging in gossip and idle chatter.
• Overindulging in entertainment and escapism.
• Preoccupying oneself with worries and anxieties.
  

Spiritual delusions and misconceptions:

• Holding onto false beliefs and doctrines.
• Following blind faith without critical thinking.
• Attaching oneself to outward rituals and appearances.
• Mistaking personal desires for divine guidance.
• Being captivated by charismatic personalities and leaders.
  

It is important to note that “vain imaginings” are not simply “bad” thoughts. All of them are natural aspects of the human mind. However, they can become obstacles on our spiritual path when we become overly attached to them.

By letting go of our vain imaginings and focusing our hearts on God, we can become “pure and unsullied,” free to enter the realm of the spirit and experience the “splendors of everlasting holiness.”

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Days of Remembrance. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 8, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/days-remembrance/5#289263033. ↩
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, 3. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istiqlál, 16 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Blessed is the soul which, at the hour of its separation from the body, is sanctified from the vain imaginings of the peoples of the world. Such a soul liveth and moveth in accordance with the Will of its Creator, and entereth the all-highest Paradise. The Maids of Heaven, inmates of the loftiest mansions, will circle around it, and the Prophets of God and His chosen ones will seek its companionship. With them that soul will freely converse, and will recount unto them that which it hath been made to endure in the path of God, the Lord of all worlds. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

In what state should our soul be when it separates from the body? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote from Bahá’u’lláh, our soul should be in the following state when it separates from the body:

1. Sanctified from the vain imaginings of the peoples of the world: This means that our soul should be free from worldly attachments, desires, and false beliefs. We should strive to live our lives according to God’s will and focus on spiritual matters rather than material pursuits.

2. Living and moving in accordance with the Will of its Creator: This means that our soul should be aligned with God’s purpose and strive to fulfill His will. We should obey His laws, follow the teachings of His Messengers, and dedicate our lives to serving humanity.

3. Ready to enter the all-highest Paradise: This means that our soul should be prepared for the spiritual rewards and blessings that await it in the afterlife. We should cultivate the qualities and virtues that will allow us to experience the joy and peace of Paradise.

The quote suggests that achieving this state of being is a blessing and requires a life of dedication and spiritual effort. By striving to live in accordance with these principles, we can prepare our souls for a blissful afterlife and contribute to the betterment of the world.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 7, 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, 47. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istijlál, 15 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Teach thou the Cause of God with an utterance which will cause the bushes to be enkindled, and the call “Verily, there is no God but Me, the Almighty, the Unconstrained” to be raised therefrom. Say: Human utterance is an essence which aspireth to exert its influence and needeth moderation. As to its influence, this is conditional upon refinement which in turn is dependent upon hearts which are detached and pure. As to its moderation, this hath to be combined with tact and wisdom as prescribed in the Holy Scriptures and Tablets. Meditate upon that which hath streamed forth from the heaven of the Will of thy Lord, He Who is the Source of all grace, that thou mayest grasp the intended meaning which is enshrined in the sacred depths of the Holy Writings. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What do we readily recognize when we meditate on the Holy Writings? ²

Google Bard Response:

The passage suggests that when we meditate on the Holy Writings, we readily recognize the following:

1. The Oneness and Power of God: The phrase “Verily, there is no God but Me, the Almighty, the Unconstrained” emphasizes God’s absolute unity and power. By reflecting on the scriptures, we gain a deeper understanding of God’s unique nature and His limitless dominion over creation.

2. The Importance of Refinement and Detachment: The passage emphasizes the need for refinement and detachment for human utterance to be effective. This suggests that the most potent spiritual messages come from hearts that are free from worldly attachments and focused on God. By reflecting on the scriptures, we learn to cultivate these qualities within ourselves.

3. The Need for Moderation and Wisdom: The passage emphasizes the importance of moderation and wisdom in expressing spiritual truths. While the message needs to be impactful, it should also be delivered with tact and wisdom, as prescribed by the scriptures. We learn to balance passion with reason and knowledge by reflecting on the scriptures.

4. The Significance of Meditation and Seeking Deeper Meaning: The passage encourages meditation and reflection on the scriptures to grasp the “intended meaning” enshrined within them. This suggests that the surface meaning is insufficient; we must delve deeper to uncover the hidden wisdom and insights. By reflecting on the scriptures, we embark on a journey of continuous learning and spiritual growth.

5. The Source of All Grace: The passage acknowledges God as the “Source of all grace,” reminding us that our ability to understand and express spiritual truths ultimately comes from Him. By reflecting on the scriptures, we acknowledge our dependence on God and open ourselves to His guidance and inspiration.

In summary, meditating on the Holy Writings leads us to readily recognize the Oneness and Power of God, the importance of personal refinement and detachment, the need for moderation and wisdom, the significance of deeper understanding, and our ultimate dependence on God’s grace. This journey of reflection and learning helps us grow spiritually and become more effective instruments for spreading the Cause of God.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 6, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/tablets-bahaullah/5#969741149. ↩
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, 46. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

’Idál, 14 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

MAN is the supreme Talisman. Lack of a proper education hath, however, deprived him of that which he doth inherently possess. Through a word proceeding out of the mouth of God he was called into being; by one word more he was guided to recognize the Source of his education; by yet another word his station and destiny were safeguarded. The Great Being saith: Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom. If any man were to meditate on that which the Scriptures, sent down from the heaven of God’s holy Will, have revealed, he would readily recognize that their purpose is that all men shall be regarded as one soul, so that the seal bearing the words “The Kingdom shall be God’s” may be stamped on every heart, and the light of Divine bounty, of grace, and mercy may envelop all mankind. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

What is the Source of our education?
What is our destiny?
What are some of the gems education reveals? ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the provided quotation from Bahá’u’lláh, God is the Source of our education. This means that our education comes from God and is designed to help us fulfill our destiny.

Our destiny is to become one soul, “…so that the seal bearing the words “The Kingdom shall be God’s” may be stamped on every heart, and the light of Divine bounty, of grace, and mercy may envelop all mankind.” This suggests that our ultimate purpose is to achieve spiritual unity and to bring about a world where God’s will is supreme.

Education plays a crucial role in helping us achieve this destiny. By revealing the gems inherent within us, education can help us develop the qualities and virtues necessary to become one soul, have the seal of God stamped on our hearts, and bring about a world of peace and justice.

Some of the gems that education reveals include:

• Love: Education can help us develop the capacity to love God, ourselves, and our fellow human beings.
  
• Kindness: Education can help us develop the capacity to be kind and compassionate to others.
  
• Justice: Education can help us develop the capacity to understand and uphold justice.
  
• Courage: Education can help us develop the courage to stand up for our beliefs, even when difficult.
  
• Humility: Education can help us develop the humility to recognize that we are all equal in the eyes of God.
  

Education can help us fulfill our destiny and create a better world for everyone by nurturing these qualities and virtues.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 5, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/6#610383368. ↩
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, 45-46. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Fidál, 13 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

MAN is the supreme Talisman. Lack of a proper education hath, however, deprived him of that which he doth inherently possess. Through a word proceeding out of the mouth of God he was called into being; by one word more he was guided to recognize the Source of his education; by yet another word his station and destiny were safeguarded. The Great Being saith: Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education can, alone, cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom. If any man were to meditate on that which the Scriptures, sent down from the heaven of God’s holy Will, have revealed, he would readily recognize that their purpose is that all men shall be regarded as one soul, so that the seal bearing the words “The Kingdom shall be God’s” may be stamped on every heart, and the light of Divine bounty, of grace, and mercy may envelop all mankind. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

What does the word “talisman” mean?
What is the consequence of the lack of a proper education?
What can a proper education cause? ²

Google Bard Response:

What does the word “talisman” mean?

In the provided quotation, Baháʼuʼlláh uses the word “talisman” to refer to something that has great power and potential. A talisman is often seen as an object that can bring good luck or protection. In this context, Baháʼuʼlláh is saying that human beings are like talismans because they have the potential to achieve great things. However, they need to be properly educated to unlock their full potential.

What is the consequence of the lack of a proper education?

The lack of a proper education can deprive people of their inherent potential. Baháʼuʼlláh says that education can “cause it to reveal its treasures, and enable mankind to benefit therefrom.” This suggests that people can only reach their full potential if they are given the opportunity to learn and grow.

What can a proper education cause?

A proper education can cause people to “regard all men as one soul.” This is because education can help people understand the common humanity we all share. It can also help people to develop empathy and compassion for others. When people are educated and enlightened, they are more likely to work together to create a better world.

In essence, Baháʼuʼlláh is arguing that education is essential for human progress. He believes education can help us unlock our full potential and create a more just and equitable world.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 4, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/6#610383368. ↩
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, 45-46. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Kamál, 12 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

The Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole purpose of guiding mankind to the straight Path of Truth. The purpose underlying Their revelation hath been to educate all men, that they may, at the hour of death, ascend, in the utmost purity and sanctity and with absolute detachment, to the throne of the Most High. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

For what purpose have the Prophets and Messengers of God been sent down?
What is the purpose underlying Their revelation? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the provided quotation from Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophets and Messengers of God have been sent down for the sole purpose of guiding mankind to the straight Path of Truth. This means that their primary mission is to help us understand and live according to God’s will, leading us toward spiritual enlightenment and salvation.

Bahá’u’lláh further clarifies that the ultimate purpose of their revelation is to educate all men so that they may ascend, in the utmost purity and sanctity and with absolute detachment, to the throne of the Most High. This suggests that the Prophets’ teachings are not just about intellectual understanding but also about spiritual transformation and purification. They aim to help us develop the qualities and virtues that will allow us to connect with God and experience true spiritual fulfillment.

In essence, the Prophets and Messengers of God are divine guides who have been sent to help us navigate the journey of life and reach our ultimate potential as spiritual beings. Their teachings provide a roadmap for spiritual growth and development, leading us toward a state of purity, sanctity, and detachment from worldly attachments. By following their guidance, we can hope to achieve the ultimate goal of human existence, which is to ascend to the throne of the Most High and experience the fullness of God’s love and presence.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 3, 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, 45-46. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jamál, 11 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

The door of the knowledge of the Ancient Being hath ever been, and will continue forever to be, closed in the face of men. No man’s understanding shall ever gain access unto His holy court. As a token of His mercy, however, and as a proof of His loving-kindness, He hath manifested unto men the Daystars of His divine guidance, the Symbols of His divine unity, and hath ordained the knowledge of these sanctified Beings to be identical with the knowledge of His own Self. Whoso recognizeth them hath recognized God. Whoso hearkeneth to their call, hath hearkened to the Voice of God, and whoso testifieth to the truth of their Revelation, hath testified to the truth of God Himself. Whoso turneth away from them, hath turned away from God, and whoso disbelieveth in them, hath disbelieved in God. Every one of them is the Way of God that connecteth this world with the realms above, and the Standard of His Truth unto every one in the kingdoms of earth and heaven. They are the Manifestations of God amidst men, the evidences of His Truth, and the signs of His glory. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

Which of the following are true?
We can grow spiritually through our efforts alone.
God has given us a mind, and it is sufficient for our progress.
We will progress spiritually by recognizing the Manifestation of God and by making effort to live according to His teachings.
We can know God directly.
The human being can become just like God.
God is exalted above human comprehension.
When we listen to the words of a Manifestation of God, we are listening to the Voice of God. ²

Google Bard Response:

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

• We will progress spiritually by recognizing the Manifestation of God and by making effort to live according to His teachings. Bahá’u’lláh emphasizes the importance of recognizing the Manifestations of God as the channels through which God’s guidance and love are revealed to humanity. By following their teachings and striving to live according to their principles, we can open ourselves up to spiritual growth and transformation.
  
• We can know God indirectly through His Manifestations. While direct knowledge of God’s essence is beyond human comprehension, Bahá’u’lláh asserts that we can come to know God indirectly through His Manifestations. These divine Messengers reflect God’s attributes and teachings, providing us with a glimpse into the nature of the divine.
  
• God is exalted above human comprehension. The quotation clearly states that God’s essence is beyond human understanding. While we can come to know God through His Manifestations, we cannot fully comprehend His nature. This emphasizes the transcendent and infinite nature of God.
  
• When we listen to the words of a Manifestation of God, we are listening to the Voice of God. Bahá’u’lláh equates listening to the teachings of the Manifestations with listening to the voice of God himself. This underscores the authority and authenticity of the Manifestations as divine Messengers.
  

The other statements are false:

• We can grow spiritually through our efforts alone. While personal effort is essential for spiritual growth, Bahá’u’lláh emphasizes that true spiritual progress requires divine assistance and guidance. Recognizing and following the Manifestations of God is a crucial aspect of this process.
  
• God has given us a mind, and it is sufficient for our progress. While the human mind is a valuable tool for learning and understanding, Bahá’u’lláh asserts that spiritual progress requires something beyond mere intellectual knowledge. It involves developing spiritual qualities, aligning our will with God’s will, and living a life of service and love.
  
• The human being can become just like God. Bahá’u’lláh distinguishes between the finite and limited nature of humanity and the infinite and limitless nature of God. While humans can strive to reflect God’s attributes and embody His teachings, they cannot become God in the same sense that God is God.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 2, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/2#802723168. ↩
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, 44-45. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jalál, 10 Qawl (Speech), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

The door of the knowledge of the Ancient Being hath ever been, and will continue forever to be, closed in the face of men. No man’s understanding shall ever gain access unto His holy court. As a token of His mercy, however, and as a proof of His loving-kindness, He hath manifested unto men the Daystars of His divine guidance, the Symbols of His divine unity, and hath ordained the knowledge of these sanctified Beings to be identical with the knowledge of His own Self. Whoso recognizeth them hath recognized God. Whoso hearkeneth to their call, hath hearkened to the Voice of God, and whoso testifieth to the truth of their Revelation, hath testified to the truth of God Himself. Whoso turneth away from them, hath turned away from God, and whoso disbelieveth in them, hath disbelieved in God. Every one of them is the Way of God that connecteth this world with the realms above, and the Standard of His Truth unto every one in the kingdoms of earth and heaven. They are the Manifestations of God amidst men, the evidences of His Truth, and the signs of His glory. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

With the above quotation in mind, answer the following questions:
Can you name some of the Daystars of divine guidance?
To Whose Voice have those who have listened to the Manifestations of God hearkened?

From Whom are we turning away when we ignore the call of the Manifestations of God? ²

Google Bard Response:

Based on the provided quotation, here are the answers to your questions:

Can you name some of the Daystars of divine guidance?

According to the quote, the Daystars of divine guidance are the Manifestations of God. While the quote does not explicitly mention any specific names, other Bahá’í writings and teachings reveal that these Daystars include:

• Buddha
• Krishna
• Abraham
• Moses
• Jesus Christ
• Muhammad
• Bahá’u’lláh
  

These individuals are considered Manifestations of God because they are believed to be the channels through which God reveals His will and message to humanity. They come to guide and inspire humanity towards spiritual progress and unity.

To Whose Voice have those who have listened to the Manifestations of God hearkened?

The quote states that those who listen to the call of the Manifestations of God are hearing the “Voice of God.” This suggests that the Manifestations are not merely human beings but also conduits for conveying God’s message to humanity. Therefore, by listening to their teachings, we are essentially opening ourselves to the divine voice and guidance.

From Whom are we turning away when we ignore the call of the Manifestations of God?

According to the quote, ignoring the call of the Manifestations of God is equivalent to turning away from God. This is because the Manifestations are seen as the representatives and embodiments of God’s will on earth. By refusing to heed their message, we are rejecting the opportunity to connect with God and receive His guidance.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 1, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/2#802723168. ↩
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, 44. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩