’Idál, 08 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Prayer need not be in words, but rather in thought and attitude. But if this love and this desire are lacking, it is useless to try to force them. Words without love mean nothing. If a person talks to you as an unpleasant duty, with no love or pleasure in his meeting with you, do you wish to converse with him? — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What does the impulse to pray spring from? ²

Google Bard Response:

The impulse to pray springs from our love for God. When we love someone, we naturally want to communicate with them and share our thoughts and feelings with them. Prayer is a way for us to do this with God.

In the passage from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that you quoted, he emphasizes the importance of sincerity in prayer. He says that words without love mean nothing. This is because prayer is not about performing a ritual or reciting a set of memorized phrases. It is about having a genuine conversation with God.

When we pray, we should be open and honest with God about our thoughts, feelings, and needs. We can pray for anything and everything, from the big things in our lives to the small. We can also pray for others, asking God to bless them and help them in their lives.

The impulse to pray can come from a variety of sources. It may be triggered by a specific event or experience in our lives, such as a birth, death, or illness. It may also come from a more general sense of gratitude or love for God. And sometimes, the impulse to pray may simply come from a deep need to connect with God on a spiritual level.

Whatever the source, the impulse to pray is a natural one. It comes from the love that we have for God, and from the desire to communicate with Him. When we pray, we are not just talking to ourselves. We are talking to the Creator of the universe, who loves us unconditionally and wants to hear from us.

Here are some specific examples of things that might trigger the impulse to pray:

• Feeling grateful for something in your life.
• Feeling lost or confused.
• Facing a challenge or difficulty.
• Experiencing grief or loss.
• Feeling a deep connection to God.
• Simply wanting to talk to God and share your thoughts and feelings.
  

If you ever feel the impulse to pray, don’t ignore it. It is a gift from God.

1. Report of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words as quoted in J. E. Esslemont, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, pp. 94. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/importance-prayer-meditation-devotional-attitude/3#987236432.
   . ↩
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, 17. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Fidál, 07 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

If one friend feels love for another, he will wish to say so. Though he knows that the friend is aware that he loves him, he will still wish to say so…. God knows the wishes of all hearts. But the impulse to prayer is a natural one, springing from man’s love to God. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What is the most fervent wish of a person who loves another? ²

Google Bard Response:

The most fervent wish of a person who loves another is to see the other person happy and fulfilled. This means wishing for their well-being in all aspects of their life, including their physical, emotional, spiritual, and intellectual health. It also means wishing for them to achieve their goals and dreams, and to live a life that is meaningful and satisfying to them.

Of course, what makes one person happy may not be the same for another. But a loving person will take the time to get to know the other person on a deep level so that they can truly understand what they need and want. Once they have this understanding, they can then offer their love and support in ways that are truly meaningful and helpful.

The passage from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that you quoted beautifully expresses the idea that love naturally leads to a desire to express that love. This can be done through words, actions, and even prayer. When we pray for someone we love, we are essentially asking God to bless them and help them to achieve their full potential.

Here are some specific examples of the most fervent wishes that a person who loves another might have:

• That the other person be healthy and safe.
• That the other person finds happiness and fulfillment in their life.
• That the other person achieves their goals and dreams.
• That the other person experiences the love of God and others.
• That the other person grows and develops as a person.
• That the other person be able to overcome any challenges they face.
• That the other person always knows how much they are loved.
  

Ultimately, the most fervent wish of a person who loves another is for that other person to be happy and fulfilled. When we love someone, we want them to have the best that life has to offer. We want them to experience joy, peace, and love.

1. Report of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words as quoted in J. E. Esslemont, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, pp. 94. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/importance-prayer-meditation-devotional-attitude/3#987236432.
   . ↩
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, 17. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Kamál, 06 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

PRAISE be to God, thy heart is engaged in the commemoration of God, thy soul is gladdened by the glad tidings of God and thou art absorbed in prayer. The state of prayer is the best of conditions, for man is then associating with God. Prayer verily bestoweth life, particularly when offered in private and at times, such as midnight, when freed from daily cares. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What does the phrase “commemoration of God” mean? ²

Google Bard Response:

The phrase “commemoration of God” (also known as dhikr in Sufism) has many meanings and interpretations in different religions and spiritual traditions. In general, it refers to the practice of keeping God in mind and heart and being mindful of His presence in all things.

In the context of the quote from ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the phrase “commemoration of God” can be understood to mean the following:

• Remembering God’s attributes and perfections. This can be done through prayer, meditation, or simply reflecting on the wonders of creation.
• Being grateful for God’s blessings. This can include the blessings of material wealth, health, and good relationships, as well as the spiritual blessings of faith, guidance, and love.
• Trusting in God’s will and providence. This means knowing that God is always with us and that He will guide us through all of the challenges and opportunities of life.
• Living by God’s teachings. This means striving to be kind, compassionate, and just in all of our dealings with others.
  

The “commemoration of God” is a powerful spiritual practice that can help us to deepen our relationship with God, to find peace and contentment, and to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

In the Bahá’í Faith, the commemoration of God is seen as an essential part of a spiritual life. It is a way of connecting with God and receiving His guidance and inspiration. Bahá’ís are encouraged to commemorate God throughout the day and to make time for prayer and meditation each day.

Here are some specific examples of how we can practice the “commemoration of God”:

• Praying regularly. Prayer is a direct way of communicating with God and expressing our love and devotion to Him.
• Reading and reflecting on sacred texts. The Bahá’í Writings, the Quran, the Bible, and other sacred texts are full of wisdom and guidance that can help us to grow in our understanding of God and His ways.
• Meditating on God’s attributes and perfections. We can take some time each day to sit quietly and reflect on God’s love, mercy, wisdom, and power.
• Being mindful of God’s presence in all things. When we are going about our daily activities, we can try to keep God in mind and be grateful for His blessings.
• Living by God’s teachings. We can try to be kind, compassionate, and just in all of our dealings with others.
  

The “commemoration of God” is a journey, not a destination. It is a practice that we can deepen and refine throughout our lives. As we become more and more mindful of God’s presence and love, we will experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Translated by Marzieh Gail. Reprint. Wilmette, Illinois: Bahá’í Publishing Trust, 1996, 202. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/7#703369143 ↩
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, 17. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jamál, 05 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

In the highest prayer, men pray only for the love of God, not because they fear Him or hell, or hope for bounty or heaven…. When a man falls in love with a human being, it is impossible for him to keep from mentioning the name of his beloved. How much more difficult is it to keep from mentioning the Name of God when one has come to love Him…. The spiritual man finds no delight in anything save in commemoration of God. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

Why do we pray? ²

Google Bard Response:

We pray for many reasons. Some people pray to ask God for help or guidance, while others pray to express their gratitude or love for God. Still others pray to simply connect with God and feel His presence in their lives.

According to the passage by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the highest form of prayer is when we pray for the love of God, not because we fear Him or hell, or hope for bounty or heaven. When we pray this way, we are not praying for anything in return. We are simply praying to connect with God and to express our love for Him.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá also compares prayer to falling in love with a human being. When we are in love, we can’t stop mentioning the name of our beloved. In the same way, when we love God, we can’t help but pray to Him.

The spiritual man, according to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, finds no delight in anything save in commemoration of God. This means that prayer is the most important thing in the life of a spiritual person. It is through prayer that we connect with God and experience His love.

Here are some other reasons why we pray:

• To ask for forgiveness for our sins
• To pray for the well-being of our loved ones and friends
• To pray for peace in the world
• To pray for guidance in making difficult decisions
• To pray for strength and courage to overcome challenges
• To pray for wisdom and understanding
• To pray for spiritual growth and development
  

Prayer is a powerful tool that can help us in many ways. It is a way to connect with God, to receive His guidance and support, and to experience His love.

1. Report of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s words as quoted in J. E. Esslemont, Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era, pp. 94–95 https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/prayer-devotional-life/3#687324322.
   . ↩
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, 17. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jalál, 04 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Do not busy yourselves in your own concerns; let your thoughts be fixed upon that which will rehabilitate the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts and souls of men. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

…the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony. — Bahá’u’lláh ²

A pure heart is as a mirror; cleanse it with the burnish of love and severance from all save God, that the true sun may shine therein and the eternal morning dawn. — Bahá’u’lláh ³

Your hearts must be pure and your intentions sincere in order that you may become recipients of the divine bestowals. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ⁴

Questions for Consideration:

Are any of the following true?

– First you take care of yourself, and then you can take care of others.

– If you are always helping others, you will end up losing sight of your own goals.

– You are your closest friend.

– What is most important is finding out what makes you happy.

– Follow your dreams, and they will lead you to happiness.

– As long as you are not hurting anyone else, it does not matter what you do.

– It is all right for your motives to be selfish, as long as you do some good. ⁵

Google Bard Response:

Given the preceding quotes, none of the following statements are necessarily true:

First you take care of yourself, and then you can take care of others.

While it is important to take care of oneself, the Bahá’í teachings emphasize that we should also be concerned with the well-being of others. In fact, Bahá’u’lláh states that “the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony.” This suggests that we have a responsibility to use our gifts and abilities to serve others, even if it means putting our own needs aside at times.

If you are always helping others, you will end up losing sight of your own goals.

While it is important to help others, it is also important to have our own goals and aspirations. The Bahá’í teachings encourage us to develop our talents and abilities so that we can contribute to the betterment of society. However, we should also be mindful of our motives and ensure that we are not helping others simply to seek praise or recognition.

You are your closest friend.

While it is important to have a good relationship with ourselves, the Bahá’í teachings teach us that we are all members of one human family and that we have a responsibility to care for one another. In fact, Bahá’u’lláh states that “the earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.” This suggests that we should view ourselves as interconnected and interdependent beings.

What is most important is finding out what makes you happy.

While it is important to be happy, the Bahá’í teachings teach us that the true purpose of our lives is to serve God and humanity. When we focus on serving others and making the world a better place, we find true happiness and fulfillment.

Follow your dreams, and they will lead you to happiness.

While it is important to have dreams and goals, the Bahá’í teachings teach us that we should also be mindful of the greater good. Our dreams and goals should be aligned with the divine will and should contribute to the betterment of society.

As long as you are not hurting anyone else, it does not matter what you do.

While it is important to avoid harming others, the Bahá’í teachings teach us that we have a responsibility to live ethical and moral lives. We should strive to be honest, truthful, and kind in our interactions with others.

It is all right for your motives to be selfish, as long as you do some good.

While it is possible to do good deeds for selfish motives, the Bahá’í teachings teach us that the highest form of service is selfless service. When we serve others without seeking any reward or recognition, we are truly following in the footsteps of the prophets and messengers of God.

In conclusion, the Bahá’í teachings emphasize the importance of serving others and working for the betterment of society. While it is important to take care of ourselves and to have our own goals and aspirations, we should always be mindful of our motives and ensure that we are acting in accordance with the divine will.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 26, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/3#998953432. ↩
2. Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. Trustworthiness: A Cardinal Bahá’í Virtue. Bahá’í Reference Library, August 1990. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/trustworthiness/2#363538019. ↩
3. Bahá’u’lláh. The Call of the Divine Beloved: Selected Mystical Works of Bahá’ú’lláh.” Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 27, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/call-divine-beloved/4#248504405. ↩
4. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 92. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/4#086530661. ↩
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, 16. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istiqlál, 03 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

I am going away, but you must arise to serve the Word of God. Your hearts must be pure and your intentions sincere in order that you may become recipients of the divine bestowals. Consider that although the sun shines equally upon all things, yet in the clear mirror its reflection is most brilliant and not in the black stone. This great effulgence and heat have been produced by the crystal clearness of the glass. If there were no clearness and purity, these effects would not be witnessed. Should rain fall upon salty, stony earth, it will never have effect; but when it falls upon good pure soil, green and verdant growth follows, and fruits are produced. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

What are some of the conditions that attract divine bestowals? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the passage by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, some of the conditions that attract divine bestowals include:

• A pure heart and sincere intentions
• Being receptive to the Word of God
• Being like a clear mirror, reflecting the divine light
• Having a good and pure character
• Being like good, fertile soil, ready to receive the rain of divine blessings
  

These conditions all relate to our inner state of being. When we are pure in heart and sincere in our intentions, we are more open to receiving the divine bestowals. When we are receptive to the Word of God and strive to follow its teachings, we are aligning ourselves with the divine will. When we are like a clear mirror, we are able to reflect the divine light and beauty in the world around us. When we have a good and pure character, we are creating a foundation for a life that is pleasing to God. And when we are like good, fertile soil, we are ready to receive the rain of divine blessings and grow in our spiritual lives.

Here are some additional thoughts on how to cultivate the conditions that attract divine bestowals:

• Pray for guidance and assistance. Ask God to help you to purify your heart, to become more receptive to His Word, and to develop a character that is pleasing to Him.
• Study the sacred scriptures of your faith. The scriptures contain the wisdom and guidance of the prophets and messengers of God, and they can help us learn how to live a life that is pleasing to Him.
• Reflect on the divine attributes. Contemplate the beauty, perfection, and mercy of God, and strive to emulate these attributes in your own life.
• Serve others. One of the best ways to attract divine bestowals is to serve others with a pure heart and sincere intentions. When we serve others, we are actually serving God.
  

It is important to note that divine bestowals are not something that we can earn or demand. They are gifts from God that are given to us according to His wisdom and grace. However, by cultivating the conditions that attract divine bestowals, we can make ourselves more receptive to these gifts.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912. Edited by Howard MacNutt. 2nd ed. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 1982, 92. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/4#086530661. ↩
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, 15. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istijlál, 02 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O My brother! A pure heart is as a mirror; cleanse it with the burnish of love and severance from all save God, that the true sun may shine therein and the eternal morning dawn. Then wilt thou clearly see the meaning of “Earth and heaven cannot contain Me; what can alone contain Me is the heart of him that believeth in Me.” (Note: 40 From a Ḥadíth.) And thou wilt take up thy life in thy hand and with infinite longing cast it before thy newly found Beloved. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

With what should we cleanse the mirror of our heart? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote you provided, we should cleanse the mirror of our heart with the “burnish of love and severance from all save God.”

This means that we should focus our love and devotion on God, and we should let go of our attachments to material possessions, worldly desires, and our own ego.

When we cleanse the mirror of our heart with the burnish of love and severance from all save God, we become able to see the world clearly and understand the true meaning of life. We also become more receptive to the guidance of God and to the teachings of His Messengers.

Here are some ways that we can cleanse the mirror of our heart:

• Pray and meditate regularly. Prayer and meditation help us to connect with God and to focus our thoughts on Him.
• Study the Bahá’í Writings. The Bahá’í Writings teach us about the nature of God, the purpose of life, and the right way to live.
• Serve others. When we serve others, we are serving God. Serving others also helps us to develop humility and compassion.
• Avoid backbiting, gossip, and other negative behaviors. These behaviors can cloud our hearts and make it difficult to see the good in others.
• Be patient and persistent. Cleansing the mirror of the heart is a lifelong process. It takes time and effort to develop the qualities of love, devotion, and severance from all save God.
  

When we cleanse the mirror of our heart we become more loving, compassionate, and understanding. We also become more receptive to the guidance of God and to the teachings of His Messengers. As a result, we can live more meaningful and fulfilling lives, and we can help to create a better world for all.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Call of the Divine Beloved: Selected Mystical Works of Bahá’ú’lláh.” Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 27, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/call-divine-beloved/4#248504405. ↩
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, 15. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Ídál, 01 Mas͟híyyat (Will), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

We have counselled all people, in the most clear and eloquent language, to adorn their characters with trustworthiness and godliness, and with such qualities as are conducive to the elevation of man’s station in the world of being. This Wronged One testifieth that the purpose for which mortal men have, from utter nothingness, stepped into the realm of being, is that they may work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony. Dissension and strife have always been, and shall remain, rejected by God. The Books, the Scriptures and Holy Writings of previous ages have all proclaimed the joyful tidings that the purpose underlying this most mighty Revelation is none other than the rehabilitation of the world and its nations; that perchance the power of utterance may prevail over the power of arms, and the world’s affairs be administered through the potency of love. We ask God, the True One, to invest all with the mantle of trustworthiness, for that is the world’s comeliest garment. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

For what purpose have we stepped from utter nothingness into the realm of being? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote you provided, the purpose for which we have stepped from utter nothingness into the realm of being is to “work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony.”

This means that we are not here simply to live our own lives and pursue our own interests. We are here to make the world a better place for everyone. We can do this by living virtuous lives, being kind and compassionate to others, and working to promote peace and understanding.

The quote also mentions that “the power of utterance may prevail over the power of arms.” This means that we should use our words and our actions to build bridges between people and to resolve conflicts peacefully.

Finally, the quote asks God to “invest all with the mantle of trustworthiness.” Trustworthiness is an essential quality for building a better world. When we are trustworthy, we can build strong relationships with others and we can work together to achieve common goals.

In short, the purpose for which we have stepped from utter nothingness into the realm of being is to make the world a better place. We can do this by living virtuous lives, being kind and compassionate to others, working to promote peace and understanding, and being trustworthy.

Here are some specific ways that we can work for the betterment of the world and live together in concord and harmony:

• Be kind and compassionate to others. This includes being respectful of everyone, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. It also includes being helpful and supportive to those in need.
• Stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult. This includes speaking out against injustice and oppression. It also includes defending the rights of others, even when it is unpopular to do so.
• Work to promote peace and understanding between people of different cultures and backgrounds. This includes learning about other cultures and religions and building relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Volunteer your time and talents to help others. There are many ways to get involved in your community, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen, tutoring a child, or helping out at a local animal shelter.
• Donate to charities and organizations that are working to make the world a better place. There are many charities and organizations that are working to address a wide range of social and environmental problems.
  

By working for the betterment of the world and living together in concord and harmony, we can create a brighter future for all.

1. Research Department of the Universal House of Justice. Trustworthiness: A Cardinal Bahá’í Virtue. Bahá’í Reference Library, August 1990. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/compilations/trustworthiness/2#363538019. ↩
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, 15. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Fidál, 19 ʻ’Izzat (Might), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

In one of the Tablets these words have been revealed: O people of God! Do not busy yourselves in your own concerns; let your thoughts be fixed upon that which will rehabilitate the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts and souls of men. This can best be achieved through pure and holy deeds, through a virtuous life and a goodly behavior. Valiant acts will ensure the triumph of this Cause, and a saintly character will reinforce its power. Cleave unto righteousness, O people of Bahá! This, verily, is the commandment which this wronged One hath given unto you, and the first choice of His unrestrained Will for every one of you. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What should be the focus of our thoughts and concerns? ²

Google Bard Response:

According to the quote you provided, the focus of our thoughts and concerns should be on “that which will rehabilitate the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts and souls of men.” This can best be achieved through pure and holy deeds, through a virtuous life and a goodly behavior.”

In other words, we should focus our thoughts and concerns on serving humanity and making the world a better place. We can do this by living a virtuous life, being kind and compassionate to others, and working to promote peace and understanding.

Here are some specific ways that we can focus our thoughts and concerns on serving humanity and making the world a better place:

• Be kind and compassionate to others. This includes being respectful of everyone, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. It also includes being helpful and supportive to those in need.
• Stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult. This includes speaking out against injustice and oppression. It also includes defending the rights of others, even when it is unpopular to do so.
• Work to promote peace and understanding between people of different cultures and backgrounds. This includes learning about other cultures and religions and building relationships with people from different backgrounds.
• Volunteer your time and talents to help others. There are many ways to get involved in your community, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen, tutoring a child, or helping out at a local animal shelter.
• Donate to charities and organizations that are working to make the world a better place. There are many charities and organizations that are working to address a wide range of social and environmental problems.
  

It is important to note that we do not have to do anything extraordinary to make a difference. Even small acts of kindness and compassion can have a ripple effect and make the world a better place.

By focusing our thoughts and concerns on serving humanity and making the world a better place, we can live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. We can also help to create a brighter future for all.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 26, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/3#998953432. ↩
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, 15. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Kamál, 18 ʻ’Izzat (Might), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quotes for Reflection:

…backbiting quencheth the light of the heart, and extinguisheth the life of the soul. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Breathe not the sins of others so long as thou art thyself a sinner. — Bahá’u’lláh ²

Speak no evil, that thou mayest not hear it spoken unto thee, and magnify not the faults of others that thine own faults may not appear great — Bahá’u’lláh ³

How couldst thou forget thine own faults and busy thyself with the faults of others? — Bahá’u’lláh ⁴

Question for Consideration:

With the above quotations in mind, decide whether the following statements are true:

– When we talk about someone’s real faults, we are not backbiting.

– When we talk about a person’s praiseworthy qualities and his faults at the same time, we are not backbiting.

– Backbiting has become a common practice in our society, and we should develop the discipline to avoid it.

– If the listener promises not to repeat what we say about another person, there is no harm in backbiting.

– Backbiting is one of the greatest enemies of unity.

– If we acquire the habit of talking about other people all the time, we can easily fall into backbiting.

– When the capacities of different people are discussed in a Local Spiritual Assembly meeting in order to name the members of a committee, this is backbiting.

– When we feel the urge to backbite, we should remember our own faults.

– When we know a person is doing something that harms the Faith, we should discuss it with members of the community.

– When we know a person is doing something that harms the Faith, we should only inform the Local Spiritual Assembly.

– It is not wrong for a married couple to talk about other people’s faults since they should not keep secrets from each other. ⁵

Google Bard Response:

Here is my assessment of the statements you provided:

Statement: When we talk about someone’s real faults, we are not backbiting.
Assessment: False. Backbiting is talking about someone’s faults behind their back, regardless of whether the faults are real or perceived.

Statement: When we talk about a person’s praiseworthy qualities and his faults at the same time, we are not backbiting.
Assessment: False. Backbiting is still backbiting, even if you say some nice things about the person too. The focus should be on the person’s positive qualities, not their negative ones.

Statement: Backbiting has become a common practice in our society, and we should develop the discipline to avoid it.
Assessment: True. Backbiting is a common problem in society, but we should strive to avoid it. It is important to remember that we all have faults, and we should focus on our own shortcomings rather than the shortcomings of others.

Statement: If the listener promises not to repeat what we say about another person, there is no harm in backbiting.
Assessment: False. Backbiting is harmful, even if the listener promises not to repeat what you say. It can damage the reputation of the person you are backbiting, and it can create a negative and gossipy atmosphere.

Statement: Backbiting is one of the greatest enemies of unity.
Assessment: True. Backbiting can lead to division and distrust. When we backbite about others, we are creating a barrier between ourselves and them. This can make it difficult to build strong relationships and create a unified community.

Statement: If we acquire the habit of talking about other people all the time, we can easily fall into backbiting.
Assessment: True. The more we talk about other people, the more likely we are to say something negative about them. It is important to be mindful of our speech and to avoid gossiping about others.

Statement: When the capacities of different people are discussed in a Local Spiritual Assembly meeting in order to name the members of a committee, this is backbiting.
Assessment: False. Discussing the capacities of different people in a Local Spiritual Assembly meeting is not backbiting. It is important for the Assembly to have a good understanding of the skills and abilities of its members so that they can be appointed to committees where they can best serve the community.

Statement: When we feel the urge to backbite, we should remember our own faults.
Assessment: True. When we feel the urge to backbite, it can be helpful to remember our own faults. This can help us to be more compassionate and understanding of others.

Statement: When we know a person is doing something that harms the Faith, we should discuss it with members of the community.
Assessment: It depends. If the person is doing something that is harmful to the Faith, it is important to take action. However, it is important to do this in a loving and compassionate way. It is also important to avoid gossiping about the person or spreading rumors.

Statement: When we know a person is doing something that harms the Faith, we should only inform the Local Spiritual Assembly.
Assessment: True. If you are concerned about someone’s behavior, the best thing to do is to inform the Local Spiritual Assembly. They are trained to deal with these situations in a loving and compassionate way.

Statement: It is not wrong for a married couple to talk about other people’s faults since they should not keep secrets from each other.
Assessment: It is important for married couples to be honest with each other, but it is also important to be mindful of the way they talk about other people. It is important to avoid gossiping or spreading rumors. It is also important to remember that we all have faults, and we should focus on our own shortcomings rather than the shortcomings of others.

I hope this is helpful!

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/7#568533901. ↩
2. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#605082403. ↩
3. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#697759113. ↩
4. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed September 25, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#568477331. ↩
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, 10-11. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩