’Idál, 11 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

“O CHILDREN OF ADAM!

Holy words and pure and goodly deeds ascend unto the heaven of celestial glory. Strive that your deeds may be cleansed from the dust of self and hypocrisy and find favor at the court of glory; for ere long the assayers of mankind shall, in the holy presence of the Adored One, accept naught but absolute virtue and deeds of stainless purity. This is the daystar of wisdom and of divine mystery that hath shone above the horizon of the divine will. Blessed are they that turn thereunto.” — Bahá’u’lláh ^{1 2}

Question for Consideration:

In the above quote, what does the phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” mean? ³

Google Bard Response:

In the quote, the phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” refers to the spiritual realm where good deeds and pure thoughts are rewarded. It is a place of peace, harmony, and love, where the soul can find true happiness.

The Bahá’í writings often use the image of heaven to represent the spiritual realm. This is because heaven is often seen as a place of great beauty and perfection, which is similar to the spiritual realm.

The Bahá’í writings also teach that our actions in this life have a direct impact on our spiritual progress. When we do good deeds and think pure thoughts, we are raising our spiritual level and preparing ourselves for the heaven of celestial glory.

The phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” is a reminder that there is a spiritual dimension to our lives and that our actions in this life have a lasting impact on our eternal destiny.

In the quote, Bahá’u’lláh is calling on us to strive to do good deeds and think pure thoughts so that our souls can ascend to the heaven of celestial glory. He is also warning us that our actions will be judged by God, and that only those who have lived a life of virtue and purity will be rewarded.

The phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” is a hopeful and optimistic vision of the afterlife. It teaches us that we can all achieve eternal happiness by following the path of goodness and righteousness.

Quote for Reflection:

KNOW thou of a certainty that Love is the secret of God’s holy Dispensation, the manifestation of the All-Merciful, the fountain of spiritual outpourings. Love is heaven’s kindly light, the Holy Spirit’s eternal breath that vivifieth the human soul. Love is the cause of God’s revelation unto man, the vital bond inherent, in accordance with the divine creation, in the realities of things. Love is the one means that ensureth true felicity both in this world and the next. Love is the light that guideth in darkness, the living link that uniteth God with man, that assureth the progress of every illumined soul. Love is the most great law that ruleth this mighty and heavenly cycle, the unique power that bindeth together the divers elements of this material world, the supreme magnetic force that directeth the movements of the spheres in the celestial realms. Love revealeth with unfailing and limitless power the mysteries latent in the universe. Love is the spirit of life unto the adorned body of mankind, the establisher of true civilization in this mortal world, and the shedder of imperishable glory upon every high-aiming race and nation. ^{4 5}

Question for Consideration:

Given the above quote, what could the phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” mean?

Google Bard Response:

In the quote, the phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” could refer to the spiritual realm where love is the supreme law and power. It is a place of peace, harmony, and unity, where all beings are united in love.

The Bahá’í writings often use the image of heaven to represent the spiritual realm. This is because heaven is often seen as a place of great beauty and perfection, which is similar to the spiritual realm.

The Bahá’í writings also teach that love is the essential quality of the spiritual realm. It is the force that binds together all creation and that brings about unity and harmony.

The phrase “the heaven of celestial glory” is a reminder that love is the key to spiritual progress and that we can all achieve eternal happiness by living a life of love.

In the quote by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, love is described as the secret of God’s holy Dispensation, the manifestation of the All-Merciful, the fountain of spiritual outpourings. It is the cause of God’s revelation unto man, the vital bond inherent, in accordance with the divine creation, in the realities of things. Love is the one means that ensureth true felicity both in this world and the next.

If love is the heaven of celestial glory, then it is a place where we can experience true happiness and fulfillment. It is a place where we are united with God and with all creation in perfect love. It is a place where we can find peace, harmony, and unity.

The Bahá’í teachings offer a hopeful and optimistic view of the afterlife. They teach that we can all achieve eternal happiness by living a life of love.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh. Project Gutenberg Ebook. Project Gutenberg, 2005, 44. https://archive.org/details/thehiddenwordsof16941gut/page/n59/mode/2up. ↩
2. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1954. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#810818726. ↩
3. Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 5. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS. ↩
4. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l‑Bahá. Internet Archive | Project Gutenberg, 2006, 39-40. https://archive.org/details/thehiddenwordsof16941gut/page/n59/mode/2up. ↩
5. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l‑Bahá. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed August 29, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/3#407306067. ↩

Fidál, 10 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

When the sinner findeth himself wholly detached and freed from all save God, he should beg forgiveness and pardon from Him. Confession of sins and transgressions before human beings is not permissible, as it hath never been nor will ever be conducive to divine forgiveness. Moreover such confession before people results in one’s humiliation and abasement, and God—exalted be His glory—wisheth not the humiliation of His servants. Verily He is the Compassionate, the Merciful. The sinner should, between himself and God, implore mercy from the Ocean of mercy, beg forgiveness from the Heaven of generosity. — Bahá’u’lláh ^{1 2}

Question for Consideration:

Is it permissible for a Bahá’î to confess to another person?

What should he or she do instead of confessing? ³

Google Bard Response:

No, it is not permissible for a Bahá’í to confess to another person. This is because Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, has prohibited it. In the quote you provided, he says that confession of sins and transgressions before human beings is not permissible, as it has never been nor will ever be conducive to divine forgiveness. He also says that such confession before people results in one’s humiliation and abasement, and that God does not wish the humiliation of His servants.

The Bahá’í teachings emphasize the importance of individual spiritual growth and development. They believe that each person has a direct relationship with God, and that this relationship is the only one that matters for the purpose of forgiveness. Therefore, there is no need to confess to another person in order to be forgiven by God.

If a Bahá’í is struggling with sin or wrongdoing, they are encouraged to turn to God in prayer and meditation. They can also seek guidance and support from their family and friends, but they should not feel obligated to confess their sins to anyone.

The Bahá’í teachings also emphasize the importance of privacy and confidentiality. They believe that everyone has a right to privacy, and that this right should be respected. Therefore, it would be wrong for a Bahá’í to confess their sins to someone who is not bound by the same standards of privacy and confidentiality.

Instead of confessing, a Bahá’í should turn to God in prayer and ask for forgiveness. They can also try to make amends for their wrongdoing, if possible. If they have harmed another person, they should sincerely apologize and seek their forgiveness.

Here are some specific things that a Bahá’í can do to seek forgiveness:

• Pray to God and ask for His forgiveness.
• Reflect on their actions and make a sincere commitment to change.
• Make amends for their wrongdoing, if possible.
• Seek the forgiveness of those they have harmed.
• Forgive themselves and let go of the guilt and shame they may be feeling.
  

It is important to remember that God is merciful and forgiving. If a Bahá’í sincerely repents of their sins, God will forgive them.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Tablets of Baháʾuʾlláh, Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Translated by Habib Taherzadeh. Ebook. Internet Archive: Project Gutenberg, 2005, 15. https://archive.org/details/tabletsofbahullh17310gut/page/n23/mode/2up. ↩
2. Bahá’u’lláh. Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed August 28, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/tablets-bahaullah/2#155955696. ↩
3. Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 5. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Kamál, 09 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Say: Let truthfulness and courtesy be your adorning. Suffer not yourselves to be deprived of the robe of forbearance and justice, that the sweet savors of holiness may be wafted from your hearts upon all created things. Say: Beware, O people of Bahá, lest ye walk in the ways of them whose words differ from their deeds. Strive that ye may be enabled to manifest to the peoples of the earth the signs of God, and to mirror forth His commandments. Let your acts be a guide unto all mankind, for the professions of most men, be they high or low, differ from their conduct. It is through your deeds that ye can distinguish yourselves from others. Through them the brightness of your light can be shed upon the whole earth. Happy is the man that heedeth My counsel, and keepeth the precepts prescribed by Him Who is the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

In which of the following situations do the words of the person differ from his or her deeds? ²

Someone keeps repeating that we should all be united but behaves in a way that creates conflict.

Google Bard Response:

In the situation you described, the person’s words and deeds differ in the following ways:

Their words say that we should all be united, but their deeds create conflict. This is a clear contradiction, as unity cannot be achieved through conflict.

Their words are about peace and harmony, but their deeds are about division and discord. This shows that they do not truly believe in what they are saying, or that they are not willing to put their words into action.

Their words are about love and compassion, but their deeds are about anger and hatred. This shows that they are not truly kind and compassionate people, or that they are not willing to show their kindness and compassion to others.

The quote from Bahá’u’lláh reminds us that our words should be aligned with our deeds. If we say that we want to be united, then we must act in a way that promotes unity. If we say that we want peace, then we must act in a way that brings about peace. Our words and deeds must be consistent if we want to create a better world.

The person in your situation is a good example of someone whose words and deeds are not aligned. They say that they want unity, but their actions create conflict. This is not only harmful to themselves and others, but it also undermines the very cause they claim to support.

If we want to create a more united and peaceful world, we must all be willing to put our words into action. We must speak and act in ways that are consistent with our values. Only then can we truly make a difference.

Someone praises the value of a chaste life but has sexual relations outside of marriage.

Google Bard Response:

In the situation you have described, the person’s words and deeds differ in the following ways:

Their words praise the value of a chaste life, which means abstaining from sexual relations outside of marriage.

Their deeds contradict their words, as they are having sexual relations outside of marriage.

This is an example of what Bahá’u’lláh calls “walking in the ways of them whose words differ from their deeds.” It is important to be mindful of the difference between our words and our deeds, and to strive to live in accordance with our highest ideals.

When we say one thing and do another, we send mixed messages to ourselves and to others. We may confuse ourselves about what we truly believe and value. We may also mislead others into thinking that we are someone we are not. This can damage our relationships and make it difficult to build trust.

If we want to live a life of integrity, it is important to be honest with ourselves and with others. We need to be willing to examine our own thoughts and actions, and to make changes when necessary. We also need to be mindful of the impact our words and deeds have on others.

When we live in accordance with our highest ideals, we create a more harmonious and peaceful world. We also set a positive example for others to follow.

Someone consumes alcohol occasionally, while professing to follow a religious faith that prohibits drinking.

Google Bard Response:

In the situation you described, the person’s words are saying that they follow a religious faith that prohibits drinking, while their deeds are saying that they do drink alcohol occasionally. This is an example of “words differing from deeds.”

The quote from Bahá’u’lláh emphasizes the importance of being true to one’s words and deeds. It says that we should strive to manifest the signs of God and mirror forth His commandments through our actions. When our words and deeds are in alignment, we can be a positive influence on others and help to spread the light of truth.

In the case of the person who consumes alcohol occasionally while professing to follow a religious faith that prohibits drinking, their words and deeds are not aligned. This can lead to confusion and doubt among others, and it can also make it difficult for the person to live a life of integrity.

If this person is sincere in their desire to follow their religious faith, they may need to reconsider their relationship with alcohol. They may need to decide whether they are willing to give up alcohol altogether, or whether they can find a way to moderate their drinking so that it does not conflict with their religious beliefs.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to drink alcohol is a personal one. However, if someone is concerned about the difference between their words and deeds, it may be helpful to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or religious leader. They can offer guidance and support as the person makes their decision.

Someone advocates the equality of men and women but, as an employer, pays women less than men for the same job.

Google Bard Response:

In the situation you described, the person’s words and deeds differ in the following ways:

Their words say that they believe in equality for men and women, but their deeds show that they do not.

They are paying women less than men for the same job, which is a form of discrimination.

This discrimination is unfair and unjust, and it goes against the principles of equality that they claim to believe in.

The quote from Bahá’u’lláh reminds us that our words should match our deeds. If we say that we believe in something, but our actions do not reflect that belief, then we are not being true to ourselves or to the principles that we claim to uphold.

In this case, the person who advocates for equality for men and women but pays women less than men for the same job is being hypocritical. Their words say one thing, but their deeds say another. This is a clear example of how our words can differ from our deeds.

We should all strive to live our lives in a way that our words and deeds are aligned. When we do this, we are living in accordance with the principles of truthfulness, justice, and forbearance. We are also shining a light on the world and showing others what it means to live a truly meaningful life.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1935. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/gleanings-writings-bahaullah/7#482116648.
   . ↩
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, 4-5. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Jamál, 08 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

Wherefore must the friends of God, with utter sanctity, with one accord, rise up in the spirit, in unity with one another, to such a degree that they will become even as one being and one soul. On such a plane as this, physical bodies play no part, rather doth the spirit take over and rule; and when its power encompasseth all then is spiritual union achieved. Strive ye by day and night to cultivate your unity to the fullest degree. Let your thoughts dwell on your own spiritual development, and close your eyes to the deficiencies of other souls. Act ye in such wise, showing forth pure and goodly deeds, and modesty and humility, that ye will cause others to be awakened. — ‘Abdul-Bahá ^{1 2}

Question for Consideration:

Which of the following are pure and goodly deeds?

Taking care of and teaching children

Stealing

Praying for the progress of others

Telling a small lie to get out of trouble

Helping others and expecting a reward ³

Google Bard Response:

The following are pure and goodly deeds according to the quote from ‘Abdul-Bahá:

• Taking care of and teaching children
• Praying for the progress of others
  

Stealing, telling a small lie to get out of trouble, and expecting a reward for helping others are not pure and goodly deeds. Stealing is a violation of the rights of others, and telling a lie is not honest or trustworthy. Expecting a reward for helping others is not selfless or motivated by love.

Here are some other examples of pure and goodly deeds:

• Volunteering your time to help others
• Donating to charity
• Being kind and compassionate to others
• Speaking up for those who are being mistreated
• Living a moral and ethical life
  

These are just a few examples of the many ways we can do good in the world. When we act with kindness, compassion, and love, we are making the world a better place.

1. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’L‑Bahá. Internet Archive | Project Gutenberg, 2006, 410. https://archive.org/details/selectionsfromth19287gut/mode/2up. ↩
2. ’Abdu’l-Bahá. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’L‑Bahá. Bahá’í Reference Library. Accessed August 26, 2023. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/selections-writings-abdul-baha/7#218828736. ↩
3. Ruhi Institute. Reflections on the Life of the Spirit. 4.1.2.PE May 2020. Vol. Book 1. 6 vols. Embarking on a Path of Service. Cali, Columbia: Ruhi Institute, 2020, 4. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS. ↩

Jalál, 07 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

But some souls are weak; we must endeavor to strengthen them. Some are ignorant, uninformed of the bounties of God; we must strive to make them knowing. Some are ailing; we must seek to restore them to health. Some are immature as children; they must be trained and assisted to attain maturity. We nurse the sick in tenderness and the kindly spirit of love; we do not despise them because they are ill. Therefore, we must exercise extreme patience, sympathy and love toward all mankind, considering no soul as rejected. If we look upon a soul as rejected, we have disobeyed the teachings of God. God is loving to all. Shall we be unjust or unkind to anyone? Is this allowable in the sight of God? God provides for all. Is it befitting for us to prevent the flow of His merciful provisions for mankind? God has created all in His image and likeness. Shall we manifest hatred for His creatures and servants? This would be contrary to the will of God and according to the will of Satan, by which we mean the natural inclinations of the lower nature. This lower nature in man is symbolized as Satan—the evil ego within us, not an evil personality outside. — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ¹

Question for Consideration:

Which of the following statements are true?

There are so few good people in the world that their actions do not have any effect.

Something is correct when it is in agreement with the opinions of other people.

Something is correct when it is in agreement with the teachings of God.²

Google Bard Response:

The statement “There are so few good people in the world that their actions do not have any effect” is not supported by the quote above. In fact, the quote suggests that everyone has the potential to be good, and that we should all strive to strengthen, educate, and heal each other.

The statement “Something is correct when it is in agreement with the opinions of other people” is also not supported by the quote above. The quote suggests that there are some things that are objectively true, regardless of what people believe. For example, the statement “God is loving to all” is objectively true, even if some people disagree with it.

The statement “Something is correct when it is in agreement with the teachings of God” is more difficult to assess, as it depends on your beliefs about God. However, the quote above suggests that the teachings of God are ultimately about love and compassion. Therefore, something that is in agreement with the teachings of God would be something that is loving and compassionate.

So, to answer your question, none of the statements are definitively true or false. It depends on your interpretation of the quote and your own beliefs.

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, 286-287. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/20#881097284. ↩
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, 4. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istiqlál, 06 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O Son of Being! Bring thyself to account each day ere thou art summoned to a reckoning; for death, unheralded, shall come upon thee and thou shalt be called to give account for thy deeds. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What does the phrase “ere thou art summoned to a reckoning” mean? ²

Google Bard Response:

The quote you mentioned is from Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith. It reminds us that we should always be mindful of our actions and words, and that we will one day be called to account for them.

Here are some things we can do before we are summoned to a reckoning:

• Bring ourselves to account each day. This means taking a moment each day to reflect on our thoughts, words, and actions, and to ask ourselves whether we are living in a way that is consistent with our values.
• Be mindful of death. This does not mean dwelling on death or being afraid of it, but rather recognizing that it is a natural part of life and that we should make the most of the time we have.
• Prepare for the day of reckoning. This means living a good and righteous life, making amends for our mistakes, and seeking forgiveness from those we have wronged.
• Live a good and righteous life. This means doing what is right and just, even when it is difficult. It means being kind and compassionate to others, and helping those in need.
• Make amends for our mistakes. If we have wronged someone, we should take steps to make amends. This may involve apologizing, offering restitution, or simply changing our behavior.
• Seek forgiveness from those we have wronged. If we have hurt someone, we should ask for their forgiveness. This does not mean that we are absolved of our wrongdoing, but it is an important step in the healing process.
• Leave the world a better place than we found it. We can all make a difference in the world, no matter how small. We can volunteer our time, donate to charity, or simply be kind and helpful to others.
  

By following these suggestions, we can live a life that is worthy of reckoning.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1954. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#746355706.
   . ↩
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, 4. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

Istijlál, 05 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

There is a cordial thanksgiving, too, which expresses itself in the deeds and actions of man when his heart is filled with gratitude. For example, God has conferred upon man the gift of guidance, and in thankfulness for this great gift certain deeds must emanate from him. To express his gratitude for the favors of God man must show forth praiseworthy actions. In response to these bestowals he must render good deeds, be self-sacrificing, loving the servants of God, forfeiting even life for them, showing kindness to all the creatures. He must be severed from the world, attracted to the Kingdom of Abhá, the face radiant, the tongue eloquent, the ear attentive, striving day and night to attain the good pleasure of God. Whatsoever he wishes to do must be in harmony with the good pleasure of God. He must observe and see what is the will of God and act accordingly. There can be no doubt that such commendable deeds are thankfulness for the favors of God. ¹

Question for Consideration:

When something is “commendable”, it is worthy of praise. Which of the following are commendable?

• To be a good worker
• To respect others
• To be studious
• To be a liar
• To be lazy
• To serve others ²
  

Google Bard Response:

The following are commendable:

• To be a good worker
• To respect others
• To be studious
• To serve others
  

The following are not commendable qualities:

• To be a liar
• To be lazy
  

Being a good worker means being reliable, efficient, and productive. It means taking pride in your work and doing your best to meet the expectations of your employer or clients.

Respecting others means treating them with dignity and courtesy, regardless of their social status, race, religion, or any other factor. It means listening to their opinions, even if you disagree with them, and being mindful of their feelings.

Being studious means being dedicated to your studies and always striving to learn new things. It means being organized and efficient with your time, and being willing to put in the hard work to succeed.

Serving others means putting the needs of others before your own. It means being willing to help others in need, even if it means sacrificing your own time or resources.

Lying is not commendable because it is dishonest and can damage trust. It can also lead to other problems, such as getting into trouble or hurting someone’s feelings.

Being lazy is not commendable because it shows a lack of effort and motivation. It can also lead to missed opportunities and disappointment.

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, 236. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/abdul-baha/promulgation-universal-peace/16#602310039 ↩
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, 4. https://www.ruhi.org/en/walking-a-path-of-service/#RLS ↩

’Idál, 04 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O CHILDREN OF ADAM!

Holy words and pure and goodly deeds ascend unto the heaven of celestial glory. Strive that your deeds may be cleansed from the dust of self and hypocrisy and find favor at the court of glory; for ere long the assayers of mankind shall, in the holy presence of the Adored One, accept naught but absolute virtue and deeds of stainless purity. This is the daystar of wisdom and of divine mystery that hath shone above the horizon of the divine will. Blessed are they that turn thereunto. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What do holy words and pure and good deeds do? ²

Google Bard Response:

In the quote you mentioned, Bahá’u’lláh is saying that holy words and pure and goodly deeds are of great importance. They ascend to the heaven of celestial glory, which means that they have a spiritual and transformative power. They can cleanse us from the dust of self and hypocrisy, which are obstacles to our spiritual development. And they will find favor at the court of glory, which means that they will be rewarded by God.

In more detail, holy words are those that are spoken with truth, sincerity, and love. They can uplift and inspire others, and they can help to create a more just and peaceful world. Pure and goodly deeds are those that are done out of kindness, compassion, and a desire to help others. They can make a real difference in the lives of others, and they can also help to make us better people.

The quote also reminds us that we should strive to cleanse our deeds from the dust of self and hypocrisy. This means that we should be motivated by unselfish intentions, and we should avoid doing things for show or for personal gain. When we do good deeds in this way, they will be truly meaningful and will have a lasting impact.

Finally, the quote says that the assayers of mankind will, in the holy presence of the Adored One, accept naught but absolute virtue and deeds of stainless purity. This means that at the end of time, our deeds will be judged by God. Those who have lived a life of holy words and pure and goodly deeds will be rewarded, while those who have not will be held accountable.

This quote is a powerful reminder of the importance of living a good and virtuous life. It is a call to action to strive to be the best that we can be, and to use our words and deeds to make the world a better place.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1954. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#810818726.
   . ↩
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 ↩

Fidál, 03 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O SON OF DUST!

Verily I say unto thee: Of all men the most negligent is he that disputeth idly and seeketh to advance himself over his brother. Say: O brethren! Let deeds, not words, be your adorning. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What should be our true adorning? ²

Google Bard Response:

In this passage from The Hidden Words, Bahá’u’lláh is teaching us that our true adornment is not found in material possessions or physical beauty, but in our deeds. He says that those who are most negligent are those who argue and quarrel with others, and who seek to advance themselves at the expense of others. He urges us to let our deeds, not our words, be our adorning.

This means that we should strive to live our lives in accordance with the highest moral and ethical principles. We should be kind, compassionate, and helpful to others. We should be honest, truthful, and trustworthy. We should be tolerant and understanding, and we should strive to build bridges of understanding between people of different cultures and backgrounds.

When we live our lives in this way, we are truly adorning ourselves with the most precious jewels: the qualities of love, kindness, compassion, and wisdom. These qualities are what will make us truly beautiful, both inwardly and outwardly.

Here are some specific ways to let our deeds be our adorning:

• Be kind and compassionate to everyone we meet, regardless of their race, religion, or social status.
• Be honest and truthful in all our dealings with others.
• Be trustworthy and reliable.
• Be tolerant and understanding of others’ beliefs and differences.
• Help those in need, both materially and spiritually.
• Strive to make the world a better place through our actions.
  

When we live our lives in accordance with these principles, we are truly adorning ourselves with the most precious jewels, and we are making a difference in the world.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1954. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/3#646280975.
   . ↩
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 ↩

Kamál, 02 Asmá’ (Names), 180 B.E.

Reflections on the Life of the Spirit

Quote for Reflection:

O Son of Being! Bring thyself to account each day ere thou art summoned to a reckoning; for death, unheralded, shall come upon thee and thou shalt be called to give account for thy deeds. — Bahá’u’lláh ¹

Question for Consideration:

What should we do before we are summoned to a reckoning? ²

Google Bard Response:

The quote you mentioned is a reminder from Bahá’u’lláh that we should all be accountable for our actions. We should not wait until death to reflect on our lives and make amends for our mistakes. We should do so each day, so that we can live a life of peace and fulfillment.

Here are some specific things that we can do before we are summoned to a reckoning:

• Reflect on our lives and our actions. Take some time each day to think about how we have spent our time, our words, and our resources. Are we living in a way that is consistent with our values? Are we making a positive difference in the world?
• Make amends for our mistakes. If we have wronged someone, we should take steps to make amends. This could mean apologizing, offering restitution, or simply changing our behavior.
• Seek forgiveness from those we have wronged. Even if the person we have wronged has forgiven us, it is still important to seek their forgiveness. This shows that we are truly remorseful and that we want to make things right.
• Live a life of goodness and virtue. We should strive to live a life that is based on love, kindness, and compassion. We should help others in need and make the world a better place.
• Prepare for the next life. This does not mean that we should be obsessed with death or the afterlife. However, it does mean that we should think about the kind of legacy we want to leave behind. We should live our lives in a way that will make us proud and that will help others to grow and develop.
  

By following these steps, we can live a life that is worthy of reckoning. We can face death with peace and confidence, knowing that we have made the most of our time on Earth.

In addition to the above, here are some other things that we can do to prepare for a reckoning:

• Spend time with loved ones. Let the people who matter most to you know how much you care about them.
• Set aside time for prayer and meditation. This can help us to connect with our inner selves and to find peace and clarity.
• Do something that you are passionate about. This could be anything from volunteering to creating art. It is important to find something that gives our lives meaning.
• Leave the world a better place than you found it. This could be something as simple as picking up litter or volunteering at a soup kitchen. Every little bit counts.
  

Ultimately, the best way to prepare for a reckoning is to live a good and meaningful life. When we do that, we have nothing to fear.

1. Bahá’u’lláh. The Hidden Words. Translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá’í Reference Library. Bahá’í Reference Library, 1954. https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/bahaullah/hidden-words/2#746355706.
   . ↩
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 ↩