’Idál, 16 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O BEFRIENDED STRANGER! The candle of thine heart is lighted by the hand of My power, quench it not with the contrary winds of self and passion. The healer of all thine ills is remembrance of Me, forget it not. Make My love thy treasure and cherish it even as thy very sight and life. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

When we realize that, of all the things we do in our lives, the moments we spend sharing the Word of God with others are invested with special blessings, we arrive at a most significant conclusion: that the joy we derive from service lies in the act itself. We hope, of course, that the acts of service we perform will yield worthy results, but if we are too attached to the results, if we are overly affected by praise or criticism, we will lose the joy of teaching. That which should inspire us to serve is the love of God, not the desire to have success, to receive benefits, or to gain recognition. Detachment from all these is a requisite of joyful service.
There are many things to which we can be attached besides material possessions. To what would you be attached if you were a person who…
…wants to give up when he or she performs an act of service and no one acknowledges it?
…feels demoralized when someone does not accept the ideas he or she is sharing?
…hides his or her beliefs out of fear of rejection by others? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the context of Bahá’u’lláh’s quote, attachment can manifest in various ways beyond just material possessions. Here’s how it might play out in the scenarios you presented:

Seeking Recognition:

Attachment to acceptance: The person attached to acknowledgment might find solace in praise and feel dejected when their service goes unnoticed. Their joy derives from external validation, not from the act of service itself. They may hesitate to offer help unless expecting appreciation, hindering their selfless service.

Attachment to Ego:

Attachment to the rightness of their ideas: People attached to their wisdom might feel demoralized when someone disagrees. Their focus shifts from sharing the divine message to proving their intellectual prowess, leading to frustration and potentially hindering open-minded dialogues.

Attachment to Fear:

Attachment to social comfort: The person attached to avoiding rejection might hide their beliefs, suppressing their inner truth out of fear of judgment. This inhibits their role as spiritual contributors and creates internal conflict, distancing them from genuine connection with God and others.

Overcoming Attachment:

• Shifting focus to the Source: Remembering that service comes from the love of God, not for personal gain, can detach us from needing external validation. The joy resides in offering our talents and aligning with the divine purpose, regardless of the outcome.
• Embracing humility and learning: Recognizing that knowledge is continuous and evolving can help us stay open to different perspectives. Sharing ideas becomes a co-creative process, not a competition for intellectual dominance, leading to mutual learning and growth.
• Trusting in God’s plan: Faith in God’s guidance can build the courage to share our beliefs authentically, even when facing rejection. Accepting that some may not be receptive now doesn’t negate the value of sharing the message, which can plant seeds for the future or inspire others in hidden ways.
  

Remember, the journey toward detachment is lifelong, and setbacks are part of the process. Be kind to yourself, practice self-reflection, and focus on nurturing your connection with God. As you cultivate inner strength and trust in the divine purpose, you can gradually overcome attachments and experience the true joy of selfless service, regardless of external circumstances.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 26, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#889172469. ↩
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, 8. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Fidál, 15 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O SON OF UTTERANCE! Turn thy face unto Mine and renounce all save Me; for My sovereignty endureth and My dominion perisheth not. If thou seekest another than Me, yea, if thou searchest the universe forevermore, thy quest will be in vain. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

When we realize that, of all the things we do in our lives, the moments we spend sharing the Word of God with others are invested with special blessings, we arrive at a most significant conclusion: that the joy we derive from service lies in the act itself. We hope, of course, that the acts of service we perform will yield worthy results, but if we are too attached to the results, if we are overly affected by praise or criticism, we will lose the joy of teaching. That which should inspire us to serve is the love of God, not the desire to have success, to receive benefits, or to gain recognition. Detachment from all these is a requisite of joyful service.
Is a person unable to tolerate material discomfort in the field of service detached from the world? ²

Google Bard Response:

Whether someone who struggles with material discomfort in service is detached from the world in the context of Bahá’u’lláh’s quote depends on the underlying motivations and perspectives:

Potential for detachment:

• Focus on service and purpose: If the discomfort arises from dedication to a higher cause, such as serving humanity or spreading the Word of God, and the person endures it with patience and perseverance, it can be seen as a form of detachment from personal comfort for a greater good.
• Acceptance and resilience: Accepting and navigating challenges without clinging to comfort or seeking immediate escape can demonstrate inner strength and detachment from worldly desires.
  

Potential for attachment:

• Fear and avoidance: If the discomfort stems from fear or aversion to hardship, and the person focuses primarily on avoiding or minimizing it, it might indicate attachment to worldly comforts and unwillingness to sacrifice them for a spiritual purpose.
• Excessive self-importance: If the discomfort leads to self-pity, resentment, or blaming others, it can reflect an attachment to self-centeredness and a lack of trust in God’s plan.
  

Ultimately, the key lies in the inner state of mind and the motivations behind enduring the discomfort. True detachment in the context of service involves:

• Willingness to sacrifice: Accepting hardship while staying focused on the service and its spiritual purpose.
• Trust and acceptance: Trusting God’s plan and accepting challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Focus on service and humanity: Focusing on serving others and contributing to a greater good rather than dwelling on personal discomfort.
  

Remember, Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings encourage us to strive for a balance between spiritual pursuits and worldly responsibilities. We are not expected to become ascetics or deny ourselves basic needs. However, we are called upon to cultivate an inner detachment from material comforts and desires, focusing our hearts and minds on serving God and humanity.

Therefore, someone who struggles with material discomfort in service can still be considered detached as long as they are motivated by love, service, and trust in God, even while navigating the challenges with human sensitivity and seeking ways to alleviate suffering when possible. The journey toward detachment is a continuous process, and we can learn and grow even through our experiences of discomfort. Keep striving to align your actions with your spiritual values, and trust that God will guide you through every step of your journey.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 25, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#084945209. ↩
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, 8. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Kamál, 14 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O FRIENDS! Abandon not the everlasting beauty for a beauty that must die, and set not your affections on this mortal world of dust. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

When we realize that, of all the things we do in our lives, the moments we spend sharing the Word of God with others are invested with special blessings, we arrive at a most significant conclusion: that the joy we derive from service lies in the act itself. We hope, of course, that the acts of service we perform will yield worthy results, but if we are too attached to the results, if we are overly affected by praise or criticism, we will lose the joy of teaching. That which should inspire us to serve is the love of God, not the desire to have success, to receive benefits, or to gain recognition. Detachment from all these is a requisite of joyful service.
Is a person who dedicates practically every hour of life to his or her work detached from the things of this world?
Is a person who works only enough to satisfy his or her basic needs and spends the rest of the time doing nothing detached from this world? ²

Google Bard Response:

Identifying detachment in the context of Bahá’u’lláh’s quote requires looking beyond outward actions and into the motivations and inner state of mind. Both scenarios you presented offer intriguing perspectives:

Scenario 1: Dedicating every hour to work:

• Potential for detachment: This person could be driven by a deep sense of purpose and service, finding joy in the work itself and its contribution to something greater than themselves. Their focus might be on the impact and value they create, not personal gain or recognition.
• Potential for attachment: Conversely, this dedication could stem from an unhealthy attachment to work, fueled by ambition, fear of failure, or a need for validation. The focus would then be on external outcomes, leading to potential dissatisfaction and a sense of emptiness even with success.
  

Scenario 2: Working minimally and spending most time on non-work activities:

• Potential for detachment: This person could be practicing mindful living, focusing on inner peace and spiritual development. Their non-work activities could enrich their soul and align with their values, leading to a sense of fulfillment regardless of material possessions.
• Potential for attachment: Alternatively, this could be a form of escapism or avoidance of responsibility. The lack of engagement with the world could lead to stagnation and a sense of disconnect from society, contradicting the Bahá’í emphasis on contributing to the betterment of humanity.
  

Ultimately, detachment is not about the quantity of time spent on specific activities but the quality of our inner state. It’s about aligning our actions with our spiritual values, regardless of external circumstances. We can strive for a balanced approach, actively contributing to the world while maintaining inner peace and detachment from worldly attachments.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• Finding joy in the present moment and the act itself, regardless of the outcome.
• Practicing gratitude for what we have without being consumed by desires for more.
• Cultivating a sense of service and contributing to the well-being of others.
• Maintaining a healthy balance between spiritual development, work, and other aspects of life.
  

Remember, the journey toward detachment is personal, and there’s no one answer. Be kind to yourself, explore different perspectives, and listen to your inner wisdom to find the path that resonates most with you and brings you true joy and fulfillment.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 24, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#909085672. ↩
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, 7-8. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Jamál, 13 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

O MAN OF TWO VISIONS! Close one eye and open the other. Close one to the world and all that is therein, and open the other to the hallowed beauty of the Beloved. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Questions for Consideration:

When we realize that, of all the things we do in our lives, the moments we spend sharing the Word of God with others are invested with special blessings, we arrive at a most significant conclusion: that the joy we derive from service lies in the act itself. We hope, of course, that the acts of service we perform will yield worthy results, but if we are too attached to the results, if we are overly affected by praise or criticism, we will lose the joy of teaching. That which should inspire us to serve is the love of God, not the desire to have success, to receive benefits, or to gain recognition. Detachment from all these is a requisite of joyful service.
Does being detached from this world mean living like a hermit?
Is it possible to be detached from this world and to possess things at the same time? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the context of Bahá’u’lláh’s quote and the accompanying explanation, detachment from the world doesn’t necessarily mean living like a hermit or renouncing material possessions. It’s more about shifting our focus and priorities.

Here’s a breakdown of the main points:

• Closing one eye to the world: This isn’t about literal blindness to our earthly lives, but about reducing the hold worldly desires and distractions have on us. It’s about prioritizing our spiritual connection with God.
• Opening the other eye to the Beloved: This signifies focusing our attention on God and His teachings. It’s about seeking beauty, meaning, and purpose in the spiritual realm.
  

Detachment in this context isn’t about:

• Abandoning our responsibilities or neglecting our loved ones.
• Living in complete isolation or deprivation.
• Ignoring the world’s needs or refusing to participate in society.
  

It’s about:

• Cultivating an inner peace and contentment that doesn’t depend on external circumstances.
• Letting go of attachment to material possessions and worldly achievements.
• Focusing our energy and motivation on serving God and humanity.
  

Therefore:

• Living like a hermit is not the only way to be detached. Many people find ways to integrate spiritual practices and a focus on God into their everyday lives, even with worldly commitments.
• Possessing things doesn’t inherently contradict detachment. It’s about our relationship with those possessions. We can enjoy and use them without letting them control us or define our identity.
  

Ultimately, detachment is a journey, not a destination. It’s about continuously refining our priorities and aligning our hearts with God’s will. It’s about finding joy in serving others and sharing the love of God, regardless of the external results.

Remember, the goal is not to become detached from everything but to become attached to the one genuine source of lasting joy and fulfillment: God.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed December 23, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#775762706. ↩
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, 7-8. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Jalál, 12 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

We are all united in one Divine purpose, no material motive is ours, and our dearest wish is to spread the Love of God throughout the world!
We work and pray for the unity of mankind, that all the races of the earth may become one race, all the countries one country, and that all hearts may beat as one heart, working together for perfect unity and brotherhood. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

Suppose the opportunity arises for you to share with a friend one of the quotations by Bahá’u’lláh. Where does the joy you feel in your heart come from? Naturally, you hope your friend will be uplifted by the words of Bahá’u’lláh. But what if he or she does not show the enthusiasm you were expecting? Does the joy in your heart simply vanish? Why not? ²

Google Bard Response:

The joy you feel in your heart when sharing Bahá’u’lláh’s words with a friend won’t vanish entirely, even if they don’t show the same enthusiasm you expected. Here’s why:

1. Alignment with your purpose: Sharing the message of love and unity aligns with your values and the Divine purpose mentioned by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. This act is a source of joy, regardless of the immediate outcome.

2. Planting a seed: Even if your friend doesn’t show immediate enthusiasm, the words may have planted a seed in their mind. These seeds can take time to germinate and blossom, and you can trust that the divine message will resonate with them in its own time.

3. Faith in the process: The Bahá’í teachings emphasize the importance of faith and trust in God’s plan. Even if your efforts don’t bear immediate fruit, you can trust that the message serves a purpose beyond your initial understanding.

4. Focusing on the act, not the outcome: Shifting your focus from the immediate response (your friend’s reaction) to the act itself (sharing the message with love and sincerity) can cultivate a sense of peace and fulfillment. You’ve done your part; the rest is in God’s hands.

5. Learning and growth: Every interaction, even those that don’t meet our expectations, offers opportunities for learning and growth. Reflecting on your friend’s reaction and feelings can help you refine your approach and deepen your understanding of the message.

6. Unity in diversity: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s quote emphasizes unity while acknowledging diversity. Recognizing that your friend may have a different perspective or stage of spiritual development can further strengthen your commitment to unity and acceptance.

Therefore, while the hope of uplifting your friend might be a source of joy, true joy comes from aligning with your values, planting seeds of truth, trusting in the process, focusing on sharing, and learning from the experience. Your genuine efforts contribute to the collective journey toward love and unity, even if the path is not always linear.

Remember, the joy doesn’t vanish; it simply transforms into a deeper understanding and a renewed commitment to sharing the message of Bahá’u’lláh with an open heart, knowing that its impact transcends immediate reactions.

1. ʻAbduʼl-Bahá. Paris Talks: Addresses Given by ʻAbduʼl-Bahá in 1911. Wilmette, Ill: Baháʼí Publishing Trust, 2006, 99-100. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/paris-talks/3#006175703. ↩
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, 7. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#AS. ↩

Istiqlál, 11 Masá’il (Questions), 180 B.E.

Arising to Serve

Quote for Reflection:

This servant will now share with thee a dewdrop out of the fathomless ocean of the truths treasured in these holy words, that haply discerning hearts may comprehend all the allusions and the implications of the utterances of the Manifestations of Holiness, so that the overpowering majesty of the Word of God may not prevent them from attaining unto the ocean of His names and attributes, nor deprive them of recognizing the Lamp of God which is the seat of the revelation of His glorified Essence. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

Explain in a few sentences why sharing the Word of God with others is of the utmost importance. ²

Google Bard Response:

Sharing the Word of God is of utmost importance because:

1. It unveils deeper understanding: By sharing insights and interpretations, we collectively unlock the vast ocean of truth within the Divine Word, preventing overwhelm and enriching our comprehension.
2. It removes barriers to divine connection: The majesty of the Word itself can be daunting, potentially distancing seekers from its essence. Sharing allows gentle illumination and guidance, enabling them to reach the “ocean of His names and attributes.”
3. It ignites recognition of God’s presence: Through shared reflection and discussion, we help each other recognize the “Lamp of God” within the Word, guiding us towards the revelation of His divine Essence.
   

In essence, sharing the Word acts as a conduit, amplifying understanding, removing obstacles, and fostering recognition of God’s presence, ultimately strengthening our collective journey toward spiritual connection.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Kitáb-i-Íqán: The Book of Certitude. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. 1st pocket-size Ed. 1950. Reprint, Wilmette, Ill: Baháʾí Publishing Trust, 1983, 28. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/kitab-i-iqan/2#762610598.
   . ↩
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. ↩

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. ↩