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[Page i]

Brilliant Star

A BAHÁ’Í COMPANION FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2008

Seekers of the Light

[Page ii]

Brilliant Star

Bahá’í National Center 1233 Central Street Evanston, Illinois 60201 U.S. 847.853.2354 brilliant@usbnc.org

SUBSCRIPTIONS: 1.800.999.9019 WWW.BRILLIANTSTARMAGAZINE.ORG

©2008 NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES

Amethel Parel-Sewell EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR C. Aaron Kreader DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR Amy Renshaw SENIOR EDITOR Susan Engle ASSOCIATE EDITOR Annie Reneau ASSISTANT EDITOR Artis Mebane FACILITIES MANAGER

CONTRIBUTORS Severino Albuquerque • Lisa Blecker • Brian Davis Jay Dharla • Wassan Elmasri • Elaine Emmi • Evan Hazeltine Taravat Lakzian • Andrea Mandt • Chris McKhool Fiona Missaghian-Moghaddam • Jay Mohindra • Hoda Movagh Sophia Overfelt • Donna Price • Jan Saeed • Robert Stockman Shannon Thunderbird • Michael Tuchler • Richard Wagner

Unless noted: Original illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader Writing by Amy Renshaw, Susan Engle, or Annie Reneau

By Lisa Blecker: Activities on pp. 4 and 6; Art on p. 7; Spot art on pp. 4 and 6; Colorizing on p. 18; Shading on p. 4 By Donna Price: Activity on p. 25

Photo Credits: pp. 14–15, left to right: Mikhail Nekrasov, David Rabkin, Luciano Mortula, Rui Vale de Sousa, Ayazad, Bahá’í International Community; p. 19 of U.S. Bahá’í Temple: Bryant Jayme Historical photos courtesy of National Bahá’í Archives unless otherwise noted.

Brilliant Star magazine invites all kids to explore the Bahá’í Faith. It is the second most widespread religion in the world, with more than five million Bahá’ís.

The Bahá’í Faith was founded by the Prophet Bahá’u’lláh (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Bahá’u’lláh taught that all people are part of one human family, and that all religions come from one God. Bahá’ís work to bring peace and unity to the world, and end prejudice and discrimination of all kinds.

Bahá’u’lláh’s eldest Son, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, interpreted His teachings and led the Bahá’í community after Bahá’u’lláh’s passing.

Brilliant Star encourages kids to bring their virtues and talents to light, and use them to make the world a better place. Brilliant Star is produced bimonthly by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the U.S.

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND RENEWALS To order or renew a subscription, contact Bahá’í Subscriber Service by phone at 1.800.999.9019 or by e-mail at subscription@usbnc.org. Standard U.S. rates: $18 (One year); $32 (Two years) International airmail: $38 (One year); $68 (Two years) Canada and Mexico: $28 (One year); $48 (Two years)

SUBMISSIONS We welcome submissions and ideas from contributors of all ages. For editorial themes or submission guidelines, mail your request with a self-addressed stamped envelope, or e-mail us (above).

SUBJECT INDEX AND CLASS USE A subject index of Brilliant Star is available at: www.bahai.us/bahai-us-spiritual-education-resources Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. The name of the magazine and issue date must be present on all copies and proper credit given to the copyright owner.

RIGHTS AND PERMISSIONS All content in this magazine is copyrighted by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, 1233 Central St., Evanston, IL 60201.

INTERNET RESOURCES AND INTERNET SAFETY We often provide Internet resources to encourage readers to explore a topic, or to share our references. While we make every effort to choose reliable websites, Brilliant Star does not endorse or account for all content in referenced websites. Furthermore, we urge caution and parental guidance when using the Internet. For more information about Internet safety, visit: www.wiredkids.org/wiredkids_org.html

ISSN 0884-3635

REGULAR FEATURES

3 Bahá’u’lláh’s Life: Mission of Peace Reflections of God

4 Nur’s Nook Create art that adds to the mosaic of our world.

6 Maya’s Mysteries Do you take time to smell the roses?

8 Stargazer: Jan Saeed Fostering interfaith unity and understanding

10 Riley’s Rainforest What does food have to do with faith?

16 Radiant Stars Get to know kids who shine, like you.

19 Shining Lamp: Louis Bourgeois Architect of a Temple built for all the world

20 Lightning and Luna: Episode 29 Will the Uplifters stop Fanatica Finn?

22 Music Café Join the drum circle and feel Earth’s heartbeat.

23 Calendars What’s special about November and December?

26 Cosmo Chameleon’s Corner A crossword and more from our favorite lizard

29 aMAZEing ADVENTURE Help the bird find his flock through the clouds. [Page 1]

SPECIAL FEATURES

2 Hidden Treasures Dive deep for the treasures inside you.

5 Ways of Worship How do friends of different faiths worship?

7 Planting Seeds Can one virtue sprout into other virtues?

11 Exploring Truth An open mind helps you on your journey.

12 Story of Peace Discover symbols of peace in world religions.

14 Journey of Faith Travel through time as God’s vision unfolds.

18 Prayers in the Park Explore a joyful gathering and look for hidden letters.

25 Golden Rules for the Global School Find the most important rules of all.

27 Animal Tales Match the animals with their stories.

28 Light of Many Lamps Where are the creatures that love the light?

DEAR FRIENDS,

When you take a long trip, a map can help you stay on track. It’s helpful to have a map for your journey through life, too. For many of us, religion and faith provide that map. They can guide us through life’s twists and turns, to make our journey a rewarding one.

The world’s religions may seem to offer many different maps, but their essential directions are the same. They all teach us to be kind, to take care of our spirits, and to help the world.

This issue of Brilliant Star explores the common ground of all faiths and the importance of living in unity. You’ll read thoughts from kids of different faiths, learn teachings about peace from many religions, and meet Jan Saeed, who works to build interfaith harmony. You can find out different ways to worship, make your own mosaic, and much more.

When we treat each other as members of one family, the journey of life can be peaceful for everyone. Where will your journey take you?

Happy travels,

Your friends at Brilliant Star [Page 2]

Hidden Treasures

“God is one . . . He is the Father of us all . . . We are all immersed in the ocean of His mercy and sheltered and protected by His loving care.” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Did you know that all the oceans are connected? We call them by different names, but in reality, the ocean is one enormous body of water.

Similarly, people call God by many names, such as Brahman, Allah, Great Spirit, and Supreme Being. But these names all mean the same thing—God. God is the one Creator of all that is.

Since all people were created by God, we are all one. We may look, speak, and live differently, but our spirits are connected. We are all a part of one human family. Each of us has valuable virtues inside us, like hidden treasures. By finding and bringing our virtues to the surface, we can help make the world one unified home for all of God’s creatures.

These explorers are collecting treasures of the spirit. Help them find objects named for unifying virtues.

• Pearl of Prayerfulness
• Seashell of Sincerity
• Coins of Cooperation
• Telescope of Tolerance
• Goblet of Gratitude
• Lamp of Love
• Gem of Generosity
• Scepter of Service
• Compass of Compassion

[Page 3]

Reflections of God

"Religions are many, but the reality of religion is one... The fountains are many, but the fountainhead is one." — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

If you stand over a still pool of water, you will see yourself reflected in it. The pool acts as a mirror. God's Messengers, including Abraham, Buddha, Jesus, and Bahá’u’lláh, are like mirrors, too. They reflect God's qualities, such as peace and wisdom.

Bahá’u’lláh explains how these Messengers teach us about God in a book called the Kitáb-i-Íqán, or Book of Certitude. He wrote all 200 pages of it in just two days and two nights! In this book, Bahá’u’lláh describes God as an "unknowable Essence." It's impossible for people to imagine what God is really like—He is too great for our minds to comprehend.

Still, we can learn about God by studying the lives and teachings of His Messengers. Bahá’u’lláh called the Messengers “mirrors that truly and faithfully reflect the light of God." They may be different on the outside, but the source of love and light is the same.

Each pool in the garden contains a quality of God that's reflected in His Messengers. Solve these word puzzles by finding which letter starts a word in each pool. The words can run clockwise or counterclockwise. [Page 4]

Mosaics From Ming Faiths

"We must... be connected and blended together until each part shall become the expression of the whole...This is the unity of the world of humanity." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

The people in our world make up an amazing mosaic of cultures, beliefs, and traditions. In a similar way, the practice of mosaic art brings many different pieces together in a unified work. Since ancient times, artists have used stones, tiles, pieces of glass, and other materials to make mosaics that tell stories or create intricate designs. Holy places use beautiful mosaics, from stained glass windows in a Christian cathedral to geometric patterns in a Muslim mosque.

Like other art forms, enjoying or creating mosaics can help us feel closer to God. You can make your own mosaic to represent your faith or your hopes for peace. When you express yourself with art, you are adding a unique piece to the mosaic of our world.

YOU’LL NEED

• Aluminum foil
• measuring cup
• pencil
• 2 pieces of 6" x 6" corrugated cardboard
• glue
• scissors
• hole punch
• 6" piece of ribbon
• large bowl
• flour
• salt
• water
• two colors of food coloring
• small colorful beads, beans, sequins, or pebbles

MOSAIC FOR PEACE

On one piece of cardboard, draw a large and thick symbol of faith or peace, then cut it out.

2 On the other piece of cardboard, punch a hole in the center of the top, 1/2" from its edge.

Mix ½ cup of flour and ½ cup of salt in your bowl. Slowly add small amounts of water while using your hands to knead the mixture, until it feels like slightly tacky, thick dough.

Add four drops of one food coloring to a large handful of dough and blend.

Cover the top of your symbol with dough so it's about 1/4" thick.

Add five drops of another food coloring to the rest of your dough for the background. Cover the exposed cardboard around your symbol with this dough, leaving the hole at the top open.

8 Add a little water to the surface of the dough to help the mosaic pieces stick. Press beans, beads, sequins, or pebbles into the dough.

Put glue on the cardboard backing of your symbol, and press it onto the other sheet of cardboard.

Lay your project on a piece of foil, and let it dry for about a week. When it's dry, tie a ribbon loop for hanging. [Page 5]

Ways of Worship

"All the teaching of the Prophets is one; one faith; one Divine light shining throughout the world."—‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Je're studying the world's major religions We're studying the world's major reis. Learning about faiths helps us get to know one another, and understand world events. It's really interesting!

Have you ever wondered how different kids worship? However and wherever we pray, getting together in fellowship can boost our spirits and connect us to our Creator. Today, some of our friends are sharing what it's like to visit places of worship in their religions. What are worship services like in your faith?

Unscramble the words to learn about some customs we practice in our diverse religions.

WE BOW WHEN WE ENTER THE BUDDHIST TEMPLE. WE REMOVE OUR (OESHS) THEN SIT ON THE FLOOR TO PRAY OR (DAETMEIT)

AT CHURCH, WE (CRETIE) THE LORD'S PRAYER. WE ALSO RECEIVE COMMUNION, WHICH IS (DBERA) AND WINE OR JUICE, TO SYMBOLIZE JESUS' SACRIFICE.

AT BAHÁ’Í FEAST, WE PRAY AND READ FROM THE SACRED (RGINWTIS) CONSULT TOGETHER, AND CHRASE) REFRESHMENTS.

AS WE ENTER THE HINDU TEMPLE, WE RING A BELL TO (SUFCO) OUR MINDS. WE PLACE (WSLFROE) OR OTHER GIFTS AT THE SHRINE, AND THEN WE PRAY.

DURING JEWISH SERVICES, WE HAVE (RINDGEAS) FROM THE TORAH. IT'S ON SCROLLS AND KEPT IN A (CANIBTE) CALLED THE ARK.

MUSLIMS WASH THEIR (CFESA) HANDS, AND FEET BEFORE ENTERING THE MOSQUE. THEN WE FACE THE CITY OF MECCA AND CYPAR)

FRIDAY TODAY! QUIZ! PRESENT YOUR CELEBRATIONS

(9 - -input (as sbuum-geung (E - sous-supping (Samsu [Page 6]

Smell the Roses

Have you ever heard the saying, “Take time to stop and smell the roses”? It encourages us to slow down to appreciate the simple gifts blossoming around us, like the taste of a favorite fruit or the sincere smile of a friend. It’s part of showing thankfulness for God’s blessings, and it can help us feel happy and tranquil.

The worries and stress of life can fill your mind, like pesky weeds in a garden. Stressful thoughts are often about the past or the future. Maybe you’re thinking about an argument you had with your friend, or worrying about the big test next week. But when you focus on the present moment, it’s easier to appreciate the “roses” around you right now.

One way to practice living in the present moment is to listen to and care for your current feelings. And when life’s “weeds” come up, you can try the activity below to clear your mind.

Tend Your “Garden” of Thoughts

Find a quiet place that’s free from distractions. Concentrate on slowly breathing in and out of your nose, until your mind is calm and clear. Continue breathing this way to help you focus on answering these questions.

1 What is the situation that’s upsetting you? (for example, my best friend is mad at me)

2 What emotion(s) have you been feeling? (e.g., anger, fear, worry, or others)

3 What about this situation might be causing the emotion(s) you listed above? (e.g., I’m afraid I’ll lose my best friend)

4 What are some steps you could take to help the situation? (e.g., write a letter to my best friend)

5 If this is something you can’t control, what virtues will help you find peace? (e.g., if my friend won’t speak to me, I could focus on forgiveness or detachment)

6 If you’ve done what you can at this moment, what will help you let go of the difficult feelings for now? (e.g., say a prayer or talk to a trusted person) [Page 7]

Planting Seeds

"The purpose and mission of the holy, divine Messengers is the training and advancement of humanity, the cultivation of divine fruits in the gardens of human hearts . . ." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

How do you handle tough times? Maybe your best friend has moved away, and you feel lonely. Or a family member is seriously ill, and you’re worried. It can help to talk to your parents or another trusted adult. It can also help to talk to God through prayer.

Many of God’s Messengers teach us to turn to God for guidance. When we pray, it’s like planting a seed. God’s love shines on us, and helps the seed to open up and sprout. Soon, virtues like love and contentment begin to grow within us. Like nourishing fruits, these virtues can give us energy and strength. They can help us meet life’s challenges and grow into the best person we can be.

Fill in the blanks with letters to discover names of virtues. The fruits that are connected have the same letter.

Answers: Peacefulness, gratitude, faithfulness, courage, contentment, compassion, forgiveness, obedience, understanding, joyfulness [Page 8]

QUESTIONS + ANSWERS WITH JAN SAEED

“To understand the oneness of religion,” says Jan Saeed, “is to understand . . . that we live on one world . . .” Jan got a fascinating glimpse of “one world” at the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 2002. As chair of the Interfaith Roundtable there, she led others in giving spiritual support to athletes from across the globe. She continued to work with the roundtable after the Olympics, then received an award for her service.

Jan was raised as a Bahá’í in Idaho, U.S., where most people are Mormon. She was the only Bahá’í at school, so she knows what it’s like to be different. In her job as Director of Spiritual Life at Westminster College in Salt Lake City, she helps students express their beliefs and understand other faiths. Jan lives in Salt Lake City with her husband Shahab, daughter Rahz, and two dogs, Zena and Joule.

Q. What’s your favorite childhood memory?

I am an animal lover. I just love animals . . . I always wanted to have horses, but I lived in a city, a small city in Idaho. I remember going and visiting [a Bahá’í friend named] Louisa Hockley in central Idaho and being able to ride a horse. That was such great fun.

Q. What was the most challenging experience for you as a kid, and how did you handle it?

It was somewhat challenging to be a member of the Bahá’í Faith when the majority is Mormon and you’re different . . . like something’s wrong with you . . . I think because I did have parents who were Bahá’ís and very strong about the oneness of humanity, and that you should respect all people of all different religions, that it didn’t hurt too much.

Q. Tell us something about your work at the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City.

We really needed to emphasize that the Olympics is about all people of all different faiths . . . I had [suggested promoting] a book called A World of Faith . . . [It was] probably the first time in the history of the Olympics where there was a book, an interfaith book, that had the Olympic rings and symbol . . . It was really a very historic thing, and very emotional for me to be a part of that. And also to be the coordinator of the chaplain program during the Olympics as well, and to meet the different athletes. Some of them were very thankful to God for their striving for excellence during the Olympics.

Left: When she was about eight, Jan loved horses and the movie, The Sound of Music. She dreamed of raising horses in the mountains.

Right: At school, Jan (about 12) and her friends talked together about religion, though they had different faiths. [Page 9]

STARGAZER

An interview with an inspirational Bahá’í

Q. How and when did you decide to study consultation and conflict resolution?

I loved the children’s songs that I was taught in [Bahá’í] children’s class, and there’s one called “Consultation.” “Consultation means finding out what everybody is thinking about. You listen to them. They listen to you. You all do what most of you want to do.” . . . To me, it made sense.

Q. What do you like best about your work with students?

I love the energy and the creativity and the desire to know new things . . . It’s so nice to use the Bahá’í principle of what true consultation is. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá* says that “true consultation is spiritual conference in the attitude and atmosphere of love.” . . . When you have an attitude of love towards one another, it is a great atmosphere to consult with one another and learn from each other.

Q. What can you say to those who struggle with the idea of religion?

I think again that it’s learning what the word means, and what is the purpose of religion. If “religio” comes from the root of the word “to bind together,” and to bring individual personal transformation [will] help change society . . . then it seems like it could be a good thing.

Q. And what do you say when someone asks, “How do you know that God exists?”

We have a fair number of people who don’t believe in the Creator. I think part of it is, what is the definition of God? . . . We’re at a time of great confusion and chaos. It’s very important to listen to one another to try to see the different perspectives and to question assumptions, so that we can have a truer understanding of what we’re all talking about . . .

You read scripture[s] of all different faiths that talk about the love of God for creation. For me, it makes sense that there is a Creator that loves creation . . .

Q. You went to the World Parliament of Religions in Spain in 2004. What was your most memorable experience?

One faith community, the Sikhs, decide[d] to serve lunch, a free lunch, to every one of the 8,000 participants. They felt, like Bahá’ís do, that work is worship when done in service to others. They served this meal on the beach for everyone to join them. There was a sense of universal family and respect for the diversity.

---

• ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was the Son of Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá’í Faith.

Top: At the 2002 Winter Olympics, Jan (middle), her fellow chaplains, and mascots of the games welcome athletes from around the world.

Bottom: Jan and her family made a pilgrimage together to visit sacred Bahá’í places in Israel in 2002. In a garden called Ridván (Paradise), the family joined the garden caretaker (left to right): Jan, son Naysahn, husband Shahab, the caretaker, and daughters Lahdan and Rahz. [Page 10]

RILEY’S RAINFOREST

“Send down . . . from the clouds of Thy mercy the rains of Thy healing . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

Feeding Your Spirit

From birthday cake to Christmas dinner, we often use food to celebrate. Sharing food builds fellowship and brings us joy. So it’s not surprising that food is used for spiritual nourishment, too. It’s an important part of worship services, holy day observances, and spiritual life in many religions.

During Passover, Jews eat matzah, bread without yeast that was made by the early Jews when they left Egypt. Family meals are also part of the weekly Jewish Sabbath.

Christians honor Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross with a symbolic meal of bread and wine or juice, called Communion.

For Bahá’ís, food is an important part of the Feast, held every 19 days. Bahá’ís gather for worship and discussion, and then enjoy refreshments and fellowship.

Some faiths have laws about how food must be prepared, or guidelines for what to eat.

Hinduism teaches that food has spiritual energy that can affect people’s souls. Many Hindus and Buddhists are vegetarian out of respect for God’s creatures.

Eating pork is prohibited in Islam and Judaism. Shellfish are also forbidden in Judaism.

Bahá’ís are encouraged to eat “simple foods” with few ingredients, such as fruits and grains, since they are better for health. The Bahá’í writings say that in the future, doctors will cure illnesses with healthy foods and diet.

When we respect different food customs, we can help promote unity among people of all faiths.

Explore and Soar

Faithful Fasting

One connection between food and faith is fasting, or not eating. Here’s how some faiths fast:

• Hindus fast during festivals, and to improve concentration during meditation and prayer.
• Jews fast on some holy days, to make up for wrongdoings and attract the favor of God.
• Buddhists fast on full moon days or holidays, to purify the body and free the mind of earthly things.
• Christians fast for holy days, spiritual nourishment, and to show empathy for the poor.
• Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan, to glorify God, express gratitude, and practice self-restraint.
• Bahá’ís fast to focus on spiritual renewal in the Bahá’í month of ‘Alá, March 2–20.

Fruit for Thought

“O my Lord! Make Thy beauty to be my food, and Thy presence my drink, and Thy pleasure my hope, and praise of Thee my action . . .” —Bahá’u’lláh

Curiosity Canopy

Many faiths teach us to give to those in need. Did you know you can help hungry people while you boost your brain power? In the quiz game at www.freerice.com, rice is donated to the United Nations World Food Program for every correct answer. Choose from subjects like art, math, and geography. [Page 11]

Exploring Truth

As you hike through canyons, you’ll discover amazing rock formations, steep cliffs, and lofty waterfalls created over centuries. To find your way, you’ll need to look carefully and use a good map. You’ll see incredible views — and get new views of yourself.

When we explore God’s creation, whether it’s an ancient canyon or ourselves, the journey can lead us to spiritual paths. Sacred writings from the world’s religions are maps that can give us insight and courage.

Just as it’s not safe to hike while blindfolded, it’s dangerous to shut our eyes to truth. Making a decision about people before we have the facts is prejudice. It causes disunity, injustice, and even war. People of many faiths are treated unfairly due to prejudice.

When we keep an open mind and heart, we can explore new terrain safely. Then we can enjoy inspiring views — inside and out.

Kids in this interfaith group are working together to explore a canyon safely. Search the scene for symbols related to truth in the Bahá’í writings.

Sun

Jewel

Eye

Gate

Light

Torch

Mirror

Banner

Spark

[Page 12]

Story of Peace

Each of God’s Messengers—such as Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad—has a unique role to play at a specific time in history. Bahá’ís believe that Bahá’u’lláh is God’s Messenger for today. Each Messenger brings some new teachings about things like prayer, clothing, marriage, or diet. But many teachings stay the same. For example, all of God’s Messengers teach us to act with kindness and forgive any wrongs done to us.

Holy Books, like the Bible, the Qur’án, and Bahá’u’lláh’s writings, are gifts for us from God. When we study these holy words and pray, we can find the strength to rise above challenges and reach out to our neighbors. We can then play our part in the greatest story of all—the story about humanity’s journey toward peace on Earth.

These kids are preparing for a play about the peaceful teachings of major world religions through the ages. For each purple word on their signs, help them find one prop they need for the show.

GOD SENDS MESSENGERS TO TEACH US HOW TO LIVE IN PEACE.

Gentle be heaven, gentle be earth... Gentle be waters as they flow, gentle to us be plants and herbs!... Gentle be past and future, yea, let all be gracious unto us. —Hinduism

Happy indeed we live, friendly amidst the hostile... One should follow only such a man, who is truly good and discerning, even as the moon follows the path of the stars. —Buddhism [Page 13]For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. — Judaism

Be patient . . . and celebrate . . . the praises of thy Lord, before the rising of the sun, and before its setting; yea, celebrate them for part of the hours of the night, and at the sides of the day: that thou mayest have (spiritual) joy. — Islam

Do all in your power to be as one, to live in peace, each with the others: for ye are all the drops from but one ocean, the foliage of one tree, the pearls from a single shell, the flowers and sweet herbs from the same one garden. — Bahá’í Faith

Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. — Christianity [Page 14]

JOURNEY OF FAITH

“All the Manifestations of God came with the same purpose, and they have all sought to lead men into the paths of virtue.” – Bahá’í Writings

HINDUISM

Hinduism began in India, and it is one of the world’s oldest faiths, dating back a few thousand years.

Hindus honor various gods and goddesses. Many Hindus consider all of them to be aspects of one God, or Brahman. Krishna is the most widely known Hindu god. He is sometimes portrayed as an innocent child, a playful cowherd, a flute player, or a wise warrior. In one Holy Book called the Bhagavad-Gita, Krishna shares moral teachings in a dialogue with a warrior.

An ancient Hindu temple in India, carved from stone

Hindus believe good actions bring happiness in this life and the next. People gain wisdom through following laws, study and meditation, or worship.

About 2000 BCE: Hinduism begins to emerge, according to scholars.

2000 BCE

JUDAISM

Judaism is based on the teachings of Abraham and Moses, Messengers of God from the Middle East. Abraham taught people to worship one God. Later, Moses presented the Ten Commandments, which include basic moral laws that are part of most faiths.

Moses also revealed many other Jewish laws. Jews believe that a wise leader called the Messiah will one day bring peace to the world.

The Western Wall in Jerusalem is sacred in Judaism.

About 1800 BCE: Abraham is born in the city of Ur in Babylonia (now part of Iraq).

About 1370 BCE: Moses is born in Egypt.

About 1290 BCE: The Jewish slaves are freed, and Moses leads them out of Egypt.

About 1250 BCE: Moses passes away in the desert.

1800–1250 BCE

BUDDHISM

Buddhism began with Siddhartha Gautama, a Hindu prince in what is now Nepal. After several years of searching and meditation, He attained divine knowledge and became known as Buddha (“Enlightened One”).

The Buddhist Mahabodhi Temple in India

Buddha taught that human suffering is caused by our desire for the material and temporary things of this world. Buddhists seek nirvana, a joyful state of wisdom, compassion, and freedom. Many Buddhists expect Buddha to return and bring universal fellowship and justice.

About 566 BCE: Buddha is born.

About 531 BCE: Buddha achieves enlightenment and begins teaching.

About 486 BCE: Buddha passes away in India.

566–486 BCE [Page 15]What is the meaning of life? Why is there suffering in the world? Is there life after death? We often turn to religion for answers to questions like these.

From birth, we begin a spiritual journey that never ends. In our quest to learn about ourselves and our Creator, we may follow different paths. But the paths of all religions come from the same divine Source. These are some of the faiths that have guided humanity, as part of God’s unfolding message of peace and love.

CHRISTIANITY

Christianity was founded by Jesus, who was born into a Jewish family in the Middle East. When He was about 30, He began to preach a new message from God. He taught that each person is a child of God, the Heavenly Father. He urged people to show love, mercy, and compassion to one another.

Christians believe that Jesus was the Messiah expected by the Jews. Many also believe that Jesus will return one day and establish a peaceful kingdom on Earth.

About 4 BCE: Jesus is born in the country that is now Israel.

About 26 CE: Jesus begins to preach His Message.

About 30 CE: Jesus passes away after being hung on a cross outside of Jerusalem.

The cross is a symbol of Jesus’ sacrifice.

4 BCE – 30 CE

ISLAM

Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam, lived in what is now Saudi Arabia. He taught that God, or Allah, is the All-Powerful Creator. He urged people to worship God and treat others with kindness and generosity.

Muslims believe their Holy Book, the Qur’án, contains the words and laws of Allah revealed to Muhammad. They also honor the Prophets of the Bible, including Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. They pray to God five times each day and make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once, if possible.

The Kaaba in Mecca is the holiest place in Islam.

About 570 CE: Muhammad is born in Mecca (now in Saudi Arabia).

610 CE: In the city of Mecca, Muhammad sees a vision of an angel and begins to teach.

632 CE: Muhammad passes away in Mecca.

570–632 CE

BAHÁ’Í FAITH

In 1844 in Persia, now Iran, a Prophet named the Báb (“the Gate”) announced a new Prophet would follow Him. Soon, Bahá’u’lláh (the “Glory of God”) founded the Bahá’í Faith. Bahá’ís believe that Bahá’u’lláh is the Promised One awaited by people of all religions.

The entrance to the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh in Israel

Bahá’u’lláh taught that all people are part of one human family created by one God. He urged us to build peace and justice, treat women and men equally, end poverty and prejudice, and serve humanity. Bahá’u’lláh envisioned a glorious future when the “Most Great Peace” will be established on Earth.

November 12, 1817 CE: Bahá’u’lláh is born in Persia.

April 22, 1863 CE: Bahá’u’lláh declares His Mission in Baghdád, Iraq.

May 29, 1892 CE: Bahá’u’lláh passes away at Bahjí, in Israel.

1817–1892 CE

CE = Common Era (begins at the time of Jesus) BCE = Before the Common Era [Page 16]

RADIANT STARS

Getting to know kids who shine

Connect with kids around the world! How are they like you? How are they different? Each of us has a unique story to tell. What’s yours?

Michael Tuchler

Age: 11 Faith: Judaism I live in: Illinois I want to be: A surgeon Best quality or virtue: I try to be fair. Something I like about me: My artistic talent Hobbies or sports: I sculpt clay and play soccer. Place I’d love to visit: Hawaii, so I can surf I like to help people by: Befriending kids without friends What helps you feel close to God? I feel close to God when I watch a sunset.

Favorite religious activities: I like to eat a lot during the Passover seder, where we celebrate our Exodus from Egypt . . . I like the traditional food that is served, like gefilte fish.

Where or when do you like to pray? I pray at the temple on Friday night Shabbat services with my family.

Jay Dharla

Age: 11 Faith: Hinduism I live in: Illinois I want to be: A good physician Best quality or virtue: My urge to help people Hobbies or sports: I enjoy playing music, the electric guitar and string bass.

What helps you feel close to God? Whenever I sing a hymn or prayer, I feel close to God.

Favorite religious holidays: Dewali is the festival of lights. We keep lamps outside and celebrate with dances and karaoke. Holi is a festival of colors. We smear colors on each other and wash our clothes to resemble the obstacles of life being washed away.

What blessings are you most thankful for? I think God has given me a good family with many talents and virtues. I also feel grateful for my musical opportunities.

Sophia Overfelt

Age: 8 Faith: Buddhism I live in: Utah I want to be: A Buddhist teacher . . . a singer, and the director of a homeless shelter Best quality or virtue: I like to make friends [and] make people laugh.

Something I like about me: I like to help people . . . like taking care of my neighbors’ dogs when they go out of town.

Places I’d love to visit: China, Madagascar, Italy, France, Spain, Kauai, Hawaii

Favorite religious activities: During the summer, my mom and I go to the Shambhala Mountain Center, where I study Buddhism and play with other children.

Where or when do you like to pray? I meditate . . . [at] a shrine with things that mean a lot to me, like statues of Buddhas, a picture of the Dalai Lama, and special books. [Page 17]

Evan Hazeltine

Age: 11 Faith: Christianity I live in: Minnesota I want to be: An environmentalist Best quality or virtue: I’m a quick learner. Something I like about me: I’m friendly. Hobbies or sports: Golf, tennis, soccer, baseball, and card games Favorite animal or pet: My dog, Dory. (She’s an English Cocker Spaniel.) Place I’d love to visit: Paris, France What helps you feel close to God? Helping others in need. I’ve helped a kid who was being picked on. Favorite religious holiday: Christmas . . . because it brings the family together. We go to church for a candlelight service where we sing Christmas songs and light candles in the dark. Where or when do you like to pray? Sometimes I say a grace at dinner, and at night, I just talk to God.

“God has crowned you with honor and in your hearts has He set a radiant star; verily the light thereof shall brighten the whole world!” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Taravat Lakzian

Age: 10 Faith: Bahá’í I live in: California I want to be: A doctor, to help other people Best quality or virtue: Honesty and generosity Something I like about me: My intelligence [and] how I’m learning two languages—Farsi and Spanish Hobbies or sports: Reading, playing tennis, playing the guitar, and drawing Places I’d love to visit: Hawaii, Haifa, and Iran Where or when do you like to pray? At morning and at night in my room. Favorite religious holiday: My favorite holiday in my religion is celebrating Ayyám-i-Há with my family and friends. Also, giving gifts to each other. What blessings are you most thankful for? Having food, water, shelter, and a family that loves me!

Wassan Elmasri

Age: 10 Faith: Islam I live in: Illinois I want to be: A doctor Best quality or virtue: I have a good heart. Something I like about me: I speak two languages, Arabic and English Hobbies or sports: Volleyball Place I’d love to visit: Palestine I like to help people by: Help[ing them] recycle and save the environment Favorite religious holiday: After Ramadan, we celebrate Eid al-Fitr because on that day we eat so much and get money and presents. We usually spend it with family. Where or when do you like to pray? I usually pray at home with my sister and mom five times a day.

You can be a Radiant Star!

Here’s how:

1. If you’re age 7–14, write us at brilliant@usbnc.org or Brilliant Star, 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201. Include your name, age, mailing address, phone number, and e-mail address.

2. When it’s your turn to shine, we’ll send you questions and a form for you and your parents to sign.

3. Answer the questions and send them to us with the signed forms, along with at least two good-quality, close-up photographs of your smiling face. Photos should be in sharp focus and show your eyes clearly. Please don’t send color copies, low-resolution digital images, or copyright-protected images (like school portraits). [Page 18]

Prayers in the Park

Just as music comes in many styles, prayer and worship are expressed in different ways. Prayer can be a peaceful, private conversation with God. Or, it can be a joyful gathering of souls celebrating God together.

Whether we are Bahá’ís, Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, or members of other faiths, music can inspire and unify us. When we join together in worship, the spirit of the whole community is uplifted. We can see our similarities and appreciate our diversity. It also draws God’s guidance to us, as we joyously sing of His mercy and might.

Friends of many faiths and cultures have gathered for a “Prayers in the Park” event. Find nine hidden letters to complete the quote.

Hidden Letters:

“_ hensoe _ er . . . _ _ _ _ eo _ le sh _ ll g _ her in _ mee _ ing _ l _ _ e,

sh _ ll eng _ ge in glori _ ing God, _ nd sh _ ll s _ e _ k _ o God . . .

the Hol _ S _ iri _ _ ill _ lo _ gen _ l _ o _ er _ hem . . .” —‘Abdu’l-Bahá [Page 19]

SHINING LAMP

A Bahá’í who served humanity with radiance

LOUIS BOURGEOIS: BUILDING A VISION

By the age of six, Louis Bourgeois was practicing his wonderful talent in architecture. He loved to draw, and he already drew many kinds of buildings perfectly. Growing up in Quebec, Canada, his teachers often told him he was meant to be an architect.

As a young man, Louis worked for a company that built churches, and began designing them at age 21. He attended architecture school in France, then traveled in Europe and the Middle East, studying architectural styles. He also began investigating world religions.

VISION OF THE TEMPLE

Louis’ work eventually led him to the U.S. One day, he said, “I had a strong . . . feeling that the Christ spirit was astir in the world and that I should design the temple for this spirit.” He enjoyed astronomy, and felt that the “spiral curves” of the orbiting planets “could be worked into designs of wonderful beauty.” At the time, he didn’t know how his vision would become a reality.

In 1906, Louis recognized the “Christ spirit” in Bahá’u’lláh and became a Bahá’í. A few years later, he learned that the Bahá’ís wanted to build a Temple in the U.S. He began sketching his design.

Soon, World War I caused problems in the economy, and Louis could not find work. He and his wife, Alice, took out a loan and bought a small store. Alice worked there as Louis continued designing. From 1917–1920, Louis developed his nine-sided Temple plans—sometimes for 16 hours a day. Though money was tight, Louis kept faith in the project, saying, “God is running it.”

A “NEW CREATION”

Louis submitted his design to the 1920 Bahá’í National Convention. Out of 15 entries, the delegates chose Louis’ intricate design. Architectural experts praised it as a “new creation.”

Symbols of the world’s major religions, such as a Jewish Star of David and a Christian cross, are included. Louis said, “The doctrines of Christ, of Buddha and of [Muhammad] greatly resemble each other. As with religions so it is with architecture . . . I have tried to . . . combine all architectural modes into a symbol of the Bahá’í [Faith].”

For several years, Louis made life-size drawings of the intricate ornamentation. When he died in 1930, he left behind many drawings that guided builders until the structure was completed in 1952. Although Louis didn’t live to see it, he knew the Temple was a gift from the Bahá’ís to the world. “It is Bahá’u’lláh’s Temple,” he said. “I am only the channel through which it came.”

Left: Louis Bourgeois’ life-size drawings of the Bahá’í Temple were unique in the world of architecture. The largest was 90 feet long. Right: Louis referred to this sacred structure as “the Temple of Peace.” [Page 20]

LIGHTNING AND LUNA

BAXTER AND BRIDGET ARE LIGHTNING AND LUNA PLOTS AND PRAYERS #29

IT DRIVES ME CRAZY TO HAVE TO STAY HERE WHILE VENTO AND BLUEBIRD ARE ON A MISSION.

I’M SURE THEY CAN HANDLE IT.

LET’S CONTACT H.Q. ON OUR M.C.’S* AND ASK IF WE CAN HELP. THAT IS—IF YOU’RE STILL AN UPLIFTER.

I JUST NEED A BREAK, AND TIME TO THINK . . . BRIDGET, WHAT WILL YOU DO IF I RESIGN?

I—I CAN’T JUST STOP HELPING SAVE THE WORLD. I THINK WE HAVE OUR POWERS BECAUSE—WELL—GOD WANTS US TO USE THEM.

BUT WE ALSO HAVE CHOICES.

I WAS MAD ABOUT YOU QUITTING, AT FIRST. BUT IF THAT’S WHAT YOU NEED—IT’S YOUR DECISION.

WOULD YOU GET ANOTHER PARTNER?

I DON’T KNOW. IT WOULDN’T BE THE SAME WITHOUT YOU, BAXTER.

MEANWHILE . . .

THE PORTAL TO H.Q.—READY, BLUEBIRD?

UPLIFTERS

'United For Peace, Love, Integrity, Faith, & Truth'

OI, GUYS!

BUENAS TARDES, UPLIFTERS!

WE HAVE REPORTS OF A DANGEROUS ERASER—FANATICA FINN. SHE WANTS TO TAKE REVENGE ON HUMANITY FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF OCEANS AND SEA LIFE.

10 YEARS AGO, FANATICA WAS A RESEARCHER AT THE MARINE LAB IN RECIFE, BRAZIL.

<THAT’S WHERE PAI WORKS!>

SHE WENT BY THE NAME OF FIA FLORES. WHEN SHE WAS FIRED, SHE JOINED THE ERASERS.

---

• M.C.’s = Mobile Communicators • Spanish: Buenas tardes = Good afternoon • Portuguese: Oi = Hi; Pai = Father; Sim = Yes; Doce de banana = A dessert made with bananas and spices in a sweet syrup

[Page 21]FANATICA’S ARMY OF GIANT SEA CREATURES HAS DESTROYED SIX LARGE SHIPS HEADED FOR AFRICA WITH FOOD AND MEDICINE. FISHING AND TOURISM ARE ALSO IN DANGER. SOON, LIVES WILL BE AT RISK.

<TELL HER ABOUT YOUR PAI! AND LIGHTNING!>

BEEP! BEEP!

VENTO, YOU HAVE THE FLOOR.

MY PAI WORKS AT THAT MARINE LAB. AND A HUGE OCTOPUS ATTACKED MY FRIEND LIGHTNING TODAY.

LIGHTNING? THE UPLIFTER?

SIM. ALSO, MY PAI SAW FANATICA’S SUBMARINE.

OK, YOU’LL LEAD A TEAM. SEE ME AFTER THE MEETING.

MEANWHILE, BACK AT VINCE’S . . .

THANKS FOR TEACHING US FOOTVOLLEY, DR. DIAS.

WHAT A COOL GAME!

YOU CAUGHT ON SO QUICKLY! NOW, COME TRY SOME DOCE DE BANANA—IT’S A BRAZILIAN FAVORITE.

LATER . . .

BREAKING NEWS! 12 CRUISE SHIPS ARE UNDER ATTACK BY GIANT SEA CREATURES. THE ERASERS ARE SUSPECTED. UPLIFTERS AND RESCUE WORKERS ARE TRYING TO EVACUATE THE SHIPS.

OH NO!

I HOPE VINCE AND BLUEBIRD ARE OK.

WHEN WE’RE WORRIED, IT HELPS US TO PRAY.

SIM. VINCE SAID YOU ARE BAHÁ’ÍS. WE ARE CATHOLIC.

MAYBE WE COULD PRAY TOGETHER.

THAT WOULD BE NICE.

EVEN LATER . . .

WHAT ARE YOU DOING?

I CAN’T JUST STAY HERE. I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING.

I CONTACTED H.Q., AND THEY GAVE PERMISSION. THINGS ARE GETTING WORSE, AND THEY COULD USE HELP.

I’LL CHECK IN SOON. OH, AND JUST IN CASE, BAXTER . . .

I PACKED YOUR UPLIFTER SUIT IN MY BACKPACK!

WILL LIGHTNING AND LUNA EVER BE A TEAM AGAIN? [Page 22]

MUSIC CAFÉ

“Music, sung or played, is spiritual food for soul and heart.” —Bahá’í Writings

I INVITED MY FRIENDS TO HAVE A DRUMMING CIRCLE, A FUN TRADITION IN MANY PARTS OF THE WORLD. IT HAS ROOTS IN NATIVE CULTURES, WHICH OFTEN HONOR OUR CONNECTIONS TO EACH OTHER, AND TO THE EARTH.

THE MUSIC WAS SO POWERFUL AND PEACEFUL — LIKE FEELING EARTH’S HEARTBEAT. I FELT AT ONE WITH THE WORLD. MAKE A DRUM OR CLAP YOUR HANDS AS YOU SING THIS TUNE, AND YOU’LL SEE WHAT I MEAN.

CIRCLE SONG

By Shannon Thunderbird

1 Sit in a circle, Talk in a circle, Speak of the things of the spirit.

Chorus: Hay yah hay yah hay y-o hay yah Hay yah hay yah hay yo hay y-ah Hay yah hay yah hay y-o hay y-ah Hay y-ah hay y-ah hay y-ah hay y-o

2 Over the mountains Under the sea Live in the arms of Creator (2x) Chorus

3 Dance in a circle Love Mother Earth Listen to songs of eagle (2x) Chorus

© 2008 Shannon Thunderbird, Coast Tsimshian First Nations, Canada

For a recording of “Circle Song,” visit Chris McKhool’s website, www.fiddlefire.com [Page 23]

NOVEMBER 2008 • 165 Bahá’í Era

Whether your family celebrates Christmas, Mawlid,* the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh, or other Holy Days, you probably honor events associated with a Messenger of God. Many Buddhists hold a festival of flowers each spring, in memory of Buddha’s birth. Christians may act out the story of Jesus’ birth. Many Muslims honor Muhammad’s birth with stories about His life. Bahá’ís commemorate the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh each year on November 12—often with prayers, music, and fellowship. No matter what our religion, we can build unity by learning more about God’s Prophets and showing respect for each faith’s celebrations.

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Every 19 days, Bahá’í Feast is held on or near the first day of the Bahá’í month.	Native American Heritage Month (U.S.) American Indians see animals as powerful guides and teachers. What animal inspires you?					1 All Saints Day (Christianity) Learn about saints like St. Francis of Assisi, a protector of animals and nature.
2 Day of the Dead (Oct. 31—Nov. 2, North and Central America) A time to remember loved ones	3	4 BAHÁ’Í MONTH OF QUDRAT (POWER)	5 Did you know? The Bahá’í Shrines of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh in Israel were named UNESCO World Heritage sites in July 2008.	6	7	8
9 Find a prayer partner and pray together, or talk about your prayers.	10	11 Veterans Day (U.S.)	12 BIRTH OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH Bahá’u’lláh was born in Tihrán, Persia (now Iran) in 1817.	13 Mix it Up at Lunch Day (U.S.)* Can you make new friends at lunch today?	14	15
16 International Day for Tolerance Discover beliefs you have in common with other faiths.	17	18 True or false? In synagogues, the Torah is read from a hand-written scroll.*	19	20 Universal Children’s Day (UN) 41% of people in sub-Saharan Africa live on less than $1 a day.	21	22 Did you know? Many Hindus bathe in the Ganges, a sacred river in India.
23 BAHÁ’Í MONTH OF QAWL (SPEECH)	24 National Bible Week (U.S.) “Bible” comes from the Greek word biblia, or “the books.”	25	26 DAY OF THE COVENANT A day to celebrate ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Son of Bahá’u’lláh	27 Thanksgiving (U.S.)	28 ASCENSION OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ Bahá’ís observe His passing with prayers at 1:00 A.M.	29
30

• Introduction — Mawlid honors the birth of Muhammad.

13 — See www.tolerance.org/teens/lunch.jsp

18 — True. The sacred scroll is called a Sefer Torah. [Page 24]

DECEMBER 2008 • 165 Bahá’í Era

What makes a place sacred? Most religions have special places for prayer—like a Bahá’í House of Worship, a Christian church, or a Muslim mosque. Hindus create a family shrine in their homes, and they also visit temples. Some Buddhists worship in tiered structures called pagodas. Along with these important places, we can make any place sacred when we focus on God. Bahá’u’lláh said, “Blessed is the spot, and the house, and the place . . . where mention of God hath been made, and His praise glorified.”

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
Every 19 days, Bahá’í Feast is held on or near the first day of the Bahá’í month.	1 Did you know? Many faiths revere gardens, from the Garden of Eden in the Bible to the Bahá’í Ridván Garden in Israel.	2	3	4	5 International Volunteer Day (UN) Help with a food drive for those in need.	6
7	8 Eid al-Adha (Islam) Muslims honor Abraham. Bodhi Day (Buddhism) Anniversary of Buddha’s enlightenment	9	10 Human Rights Day (UN) Religious freedom is an essential human right.	11 Did you know? The yin and yang symbol of balance comes from Taoism, a Chinese belief system.	12 BAHÁ’Í MONTH OF MASÁ’IL (QUESTIONS)	13
14	15	16 Las Posadas (Mexico, Dec. 16–24) Commemorating Jesus’ parents’ journey to His birthplace	17	18 Did you know? Buddhists believe prayer flags, blown by the wind, spread compassion to all.	19	20
21 Hanukkah begins (Dec. 21–29) Jewish families light a candle on the menorah each night.	22	23	24 Christmas Eve Many believe that the three wise men who visited Jesus were Zoroastrians.*	25 Christmas Day	26 Kwanzaa (Dec. 26–Jan. 1) African celebration of family, community, and culture	27
28 Did you know? The writings of Confucius started as advice to the rulers of China around 484 BCE.	29 Al-Hijra (Muslim New Year)	30	31 BAHÁ’Í MONTH OF SHARAF (HONOR) New Year’s Eve	Did you know? People of many faiths go on pilgrimages—journeys to holy places.

• 24 — Zoroastrians follow the Persian Prophet Zoroaster, who lived around 600 BCE.

[Page 25]

Golden Rules for the GLobal School

Bullying, lying, teasing, stealing—there should be a rule against these things! Well, there is. It’s called the Golden Rule, and it’s taught by the major world religions. Although the words each faith uses are different, the idea is the same—to treat others the way you’d like to be treated.

Sometimes, it may seem as if not many kids at school know this rule. But when you’re friendly, helpful, and respectful of everyone, you might be surprised at how other kids react. They might even follow your example. How many ways can you practice the Golden Rule in one day?

On the posters, some words are missing from the Golden Rule teachings of various religions. Find the words in the class, then write them in the blanks.

1 __________ is he who preferreth his __________ before himself. —Bahá’í Faith

Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the __________ of thy people, but thou shalt __________ thy neighbor as thyself. —Judaism 2

Whatever you __________ that others would do to you, do also to them. —Christianity 3

One should not __________ towards others in a way which is disagreeable to oneself. This is the essence of __________. —Hinduism 4

Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would __________ hurtful. —Buddhism 5

None of you truly believes . . . __________ he loves for his brother what he loves for himself. —Islam 6

Classroom Labels: LOVE, MORALITY, BLESSED, UNTIL, UNITY, BROTHER, BEHAVE, WISH, SOCIAL STUDIES, PEACE, GEOGRAPHY, ONE WORLD, FRIEND, FIND, ONE, CHILDREN, JOY

Answers: (1) Blessed, brother; (2) children, love; (3) wish; (4) behave, morality; (5) find; (6) until [Page 26]

COSMO CHAMELEON’S CORNER

Look for clues to the crossword puzzle throughout the magazine.

ACROSS

1. Like the oceans, our spirits are ______. (p. 2)

3. When we join in worship, the ______ of the whole community is uplifted. (p. 18)

9. Jay’s favorite holiday is ______, the Hindu festival of lights. (p. 16)

10. Writings from the world’s religions are ______ that can give us insight and courage. (p. 11)

11. One way to practice living in the present moment is to understand your ______. (p. 6)

14. The first row of fruit spells out ______. (p. 7)

16. Michael likes to pray on Friday night ______ services with his family. (p. 16)

17. This creature carried an olive branch to Noah’s ark. (p. 27)

DOWN

2. Buddhists seek this peaceful state. (p. 14)

4. Louis Bourgeois was inspired by the orbiting ______. (p. 19)

5. Jan’s group emphasized that this event is about people of all different faiths. (p. 8)

6. Each of us has virtues inside us, like hidden ______. (p. 2)

7. The world is an amazing mosaic of cultures, ______, and traditions. (p. 4)

8. The paths of all religions come from the same ______ Source. (p. 15)

12. Treating others as you’d like to be treated is the ______ rule. (p. 25)

13. “Blessed are the pure in ______ ...” (p. 13)

14. Muslims face the city of Mecca to ______. (p. 5)

15. An important part of worship services, holy days, and spiritual life. (p. 10)

CHAMELEONS ARE PERFECT AT PARTIES—WE KNOW HOW TO BLEND WELL WITH EVERYONE!

WHAT’S THE BEST DRINK TO SERVE YOUR FRIENDS AT AN INTERFAITH PARTY?

UNSCRAMBLE THE HIGHLIGHTED LETTERS ABOVE TO DISCOVER THE ANSWER.

ANSWER: _ _ _ _ _ _

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

Unscramble these clues, then use the highlighted letters to unscramble the country below. I am a country where . . .

You can find the earth’s lowest point on dry land, the RSOHE _ _ _ _ _ of the Dead Sea.

About 80% of EOPELP _ _ _ _ _ _ are Jewish—I’m the only country with a Jewish majority.

Around 3,500 archeological TSIES _ _ _ _ _ include the oldest known Christian church.

You’ll find holy CLPASE _ _ _ _ _ _ important to Jews, Christians, Muslims, and Bahá’ís.

answers

PAGE 2: Pearl at center right, seashell at center left, coins at bottom far left, telescope at center far left, goblet at bottom left, lamp at center far right, gem at bottom left, scepter at center, compass at bottom center.

PAGE 11: Sun at top right, jewel at top center, eye at top right in tree, gate at top left, light at top far right near text, torch at center left in tree, mirror at center right in waterfall, banner at top left, spark at bottom right.

PAGES 12–13: Earth at center left on stage, plant at top center on crate, moon hanging at top center, star at center near costumes, mountain at top far right, sun at top right, tree at center right in pot, shell on stage, flower at center right on chair, heart at lower left.

PAGE 18: V at top far right in tree, W at top right on booth, B at center right on grass, C at center right on speaker, Y at bottom right among chairs, T at bottom center on table, F at bottom left on singer, P at center left below chair, A at center on clothing. Quote: “Whensoever . . . people shall gather in a meeting place, shall engage in glorifying God, and shall speak . . . of God . . . the Holy Spirit will blow gently over them . . .”

PAGE 28

Answers—WITW: shore, people, sites, places; Israel

Cosmo: Unity (Uni-tea) [Page 27]

Animal Tales

Did you ever notice that “history” has the word “story” in it? The history of the world is full of wonderful tales, and the history of religion reveals amazing miracles. Many of those stories include animals that help or serve people.

The Messengers of God encourage us to treat animals with the same care and respect we should show for each other. Many stories give us examples of this kindness. You may know about Noah, who built an ark to save animals from a great flood. Have you heard of the horse named Lightning who carried Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem, and up to heaven? When we read animal stories from any religion, we see that all of God’s creatures are important.

These animals are sharing their stories about God’s Messengers. Match each story with its animal.

1 “WHEN I CARRIED AN OLIVE BRANCH TO THE ARK IN MY BEAK, NOAH KNEW THE FLOOD WAS OVER.”

2 “I CARRIED JESUS TO JERUSALEM, WHILE PEOPLE LAID PALM BRANCHES ON THE ROAD TO HONOR HIM.”

3 “I WAS THE WILDEST ANIMAL TO RIDE IN THE PRINCE’S STABLE, BUT THE BÁB WAS ABLE TO CALM ME.”

4 “KRISHNA ENJOYED HERDING MILK-GIVING CREATURES LIKE ME WHEN HE WAS A BOY, SO I AM PROTECTED FROM HARM IN INDIA.”

5 “ENEMIES OF MUHAMMAD CAME TO THE CAVE WHERE HE WAS HIDDEN, BUT MY WEB COVERED THE ENTRANCE, SO THEY DIDN’T SEARCH INSIDE.”

6 “IN A STORY ABOUT BUDDHA, I WAS CAPTURED BY A KING AND WOULD NOT EAT OR DRINK UNTIL I COULD TAKE FOOD AND WATER TO MY MOTHER.”

7 “I WAS STANDING IN THE GRASS WHEN BAHÁ’U’LLÁH ASKED A HUNTER NOT TO SHOOT ME FOR SPORT. THE HUNTER WAS SKILLED AND STOOD CLOSELY, BUT HE MISSED EVERY SHOT!”

Dove

Horse

Elephant

Cow

Donkey

Crane

Spider

Answers: (1) dove; (2) donkey; (3) horse; (4) cow; (5) spider; (6) elephant; (7) crane [Page 28]

Light of Many Lamps

"Be . . . like the butterfly who is the lover of the light from whatever lamp it may shine, and like the nightingale who is the lover of the rose in whatever garden it may grow." —‘Abdu’l-Bahá

If a lamp shines in the darkness, God’s creatures—from butterflies to human beings—are drawn to its light. It doesn’t matter if the lamp is old or new, simple or ornate. The light that shines from it still illumines its surroundings.

In a similar way, we are attracted to the light of spiritual truth. We have a natural desire to know about God and talk to Him through prayer.

In return, God speaks to us through the words of His Messengers—like Krishna, Jesus, the Báb, and Bahá’u’lláh. All of these Messengers brought teachings from God. We can appreciate them all, just as a butterfly may fly toward the light of different lamps.

When we let God’s teachings bring light to our global garden of humanity, we can all grow stronger in unity.

Find eight butterflies and eight nightingales in this prayer garden. [Page 29]

Showers of Truth

“We must follow and adore the virtues revealed in the Messengers of God — whether in Abraham, Moses, Jesus or other Prophets . . . We long for rain; it matters not which cloud pours it down.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

When rain falls, it refreshes the earth, gives us water to drink, and helps plants grow. All of God’s creatures need rain to live.

We also need God’s teachings. His Messengers have showered humanity with guidance. Though they lived in different times and places, they all taught us to live in peace and treat others with respect. Like refreshing rain, these truths help our spirits grow and develop.

Sometimes we may have questions about God, religion, or how to handle life’s challenges. Why do sad things happen to people? What happens when we die? Does God hear our prayers? It’s okay to ask questions like these, and to explore the teachings of God’s Messengers.

When we are open to truth from all of God’s Messengers, we can build peace and unity among all faiths. Together, we can share God’s life-giving waters with the whole human family.

Help the bird find his flock by flying through the spaces between the clouds. [Page 30]“The divine religions . . . of God are in reality one, though in name . . . they differ. Man must be a lover of the light, no matter from what dayspring it may appear . . . He must be a seeker of the truth, no matter from what source it come.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Brilliant Star www.brilliantstarmagazine.org

SEEKERS OF THE LIGHT • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2008 • VOLUME 40, NUMBER 5

AN AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHÁ’ÍS OF THE UNITED STATES