Brilliant Star/Volume 50/Issue 3/Text

~Y * « = ay Brillian www.brillfantstarmagazine-ore - i ‘al ree Uy My

WY TY: / CONNECT TO _ YOUR NOBLE SPIRIT [Page 0]Amethel Parel-Sewell — EDITOR/ CREATIVE DIRECTOR C. Aaron Kreader —DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR

Amy Renshaw — SENIOR EDITOR

Heidi Parsons ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Katie Bishop ASSISTANT EDITOR

Darcy Malberg ASSISTANT EDITOR

Foad Ghorbani PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Lisa Blecker ARTIST & WRITER

Donna Price WRITER

Dr. Stephen Scotti STEM EDUCATION ADVISOR

MANY THANKS TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS: Yasmine Agazi Anis-Nur Amini « Kensho Beasley John T. Consoli - Rachel Delgado - Ethan Eblaghie Susan Engle - Amin Fozdar « Maya Gottlieb

Dr. Matthew Hansen - David Hooper

Immersed Photography « Diba M: Dr. Moojan Momen « Dr. Karen Oberhauser

Layli Phillips - Cora Lund Preston « Kian Schneeweis Kavi Soman - Shiraz Tebyani

ART AND PHOTO CREDITS

Illustrations by C. Aaron Kreader, unless noted

By Lisa Blecker: Watercolor on p. 9; photos on pp. 18-19 Historical photos courtesy National Baha'i Archives, unless noted

STORY AND ACTIVITY CREDITS By Amy Renshaw: 9, 11,12

By Darcy Malberg: 2, By Lisa Blecker: 17, 18 By Donna P. 11,12, 27, 28

10,16

SUBSCRIPTION RATES AND RENEWALS To order or renew a subscription, contact Baha'i Subscriber Service: Toll-tree: 1.800.999.9019 / E-mail: subs 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)

RIGHTS, PERMISSIONS, AND CLASS USE ‘Allcontent inthis magazine is copyrighted by the National Sprtual Assembly ofthe Band's ofthe U.S. or by individual contributors. For permission to ‘copy or translate material, contact: Rights and Permissions, Brilliant Star, 1283 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201. Teachers may photocopy pages in limited quantities for classroom use. "Brilliant Star” and issue date must be present on all copies, and proper credit given to the copyright owner.

Brilliant Star empowers kids to explore their roles as world citizens. Inspired by the principles of peace the Baha'i Faith, we encourage readers to use their virtues to make the world a better place. The Baha'i Faith is the second most widespread religion in the world, with over five million Baha'is. It was founded by the Prophet Bahd'u'llah (“Glory of God” in Arabic) in 1863. Baha'u'llah taught that all people are part of one human family, and all religions come from one God. Bahd\u'llah's eldest son, ‘Abdu'l-Baha, interpreted His teachings and led the Baha'i community after Baha'u'lldh’s passing. Today, Baha'is work to bring love and justice to the world, and end prejudice and dis: tion of all kinds.

and uni

Maya’s Mysteries Can nature teach us virtues?

Baha’u’llah’s Life: Mission of Peace He recognized the Bab's divine station.

Riley’s Rainforest Soothe your spirit with prayer and meditation.

We Are One Explore and care for the place we all call home.

Lightning and Luna: Episode #82 Can the Uplifters defeat Professor Prowd?

Nur’s Nook Light up your world with a homemade lantern.

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

Stargazer: Dr. Moojan Momen He's passionate about sharing Baha'i

istory.

Shining Lamp: Khadijih Bagum Meet the devoted wife of the Bab.

Cosmo’s Corner A crossword and more from our favorite chameleon

aMAZEing ADVENTURE Our paths may differ, but they all lead to God.

ISSN 0884-3695 [Page 1]LIGHT OF FAITH vou.50nNo.3

NEW DESTINATIONS

Bee Kind

Did you know that bees have a superpower?

Life of the Bab: House Arrest

His enemies grew to respect and admire Him.

Wings of Transformation What virtues help your spirit fly high?

Divine Sunshine Visit the farm stand for fresh tips on unity.

Spiritual Springtime

When God renews faith, our souls shine.

Herald of Peace: The Bab’s Life and Mission ~ Anepic tale of sacrifice and glory

Trees of Faith Complete words that help unity thrive.

Incredible Inventions 7

Draw your creation to build world peace.

27 Lionhearts

Babi heroes inspire us with lion-like courage.

DEAR FRIENDS,

About 200 years ago, something happened that would change the world. A Messenger of God was born in Persia (now Iran) in 1819. His name was the Bab, meaning “the Gate.” He taught that all religions come from one God. He prepared people for the coming of Baha'u'llah, Whose teachings would bring peace and unity.

The Messengers of the world’s religions are like rays of one sun, shining from the same source. Their teachings can inspire friends of all faiths to build communities with justice, love, and compassion.

In this issue of Brilliant Star, celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Bab. Discover how each Messenger of God through the ages brings new light. Invite friends and family to explore the wonders of nature together. Brighten your path with a lantern craft from Nur. And get to know Dr. Moojan Momen, who's dedicated to sharing Baha'i history.

When we honor the truth in all faiths, humanity can be uplifted by the power of oneness.

LOVE, pei ANT ZAR *

Shrine © Bahai International Community, Skyline by Spectrum Studio [Page 2]friends! The sun was shining, and the air smelled

Tie had an awesome nature walk with my like wildflowers. It reminded me that nature is

a gift from God.

Many religions say that nature refreshes our spirits. It can also teach us virtues. For example, we can learn about perseverance from honeybees, which fly an estimated 55,000 miles (89,000 km) to make a pound

6007'S CREATION

THE GIFT OF NATURE

pa

Ac —

of honey! (And I thought my homework was tough!) Religions also encourage us to care for our planet. We only have one Earth, and it’s full of precious

resources. You can help on your next hike by picking

CREATION EXPLORATION

up trash, carrying a reusable water bottle, and not disturbing plants or animals.

How do you like to appreciate nature? Check out these activities and enjoy our wonderful world!

Invite friends and family to see how many of these activities you can do in two weeks. Add your own ideas, too.

Start Date:

{4 Count the dark rings on a tree stump to see how old it is. Each dark ring equals a year.

(4 Breathe mindfully and identify five different scents.

(4 Make leaf rubbings with crayons and paper. Use them to create a card for a friend.

(4 Spot three types of birds and find out what they’re called.

(4 Investigate leaves, flowers, rocks, and tree bark with a magnifying glass.

4 Collect flat, smooth rocks and paint them with words and designs that reflect virtues.

(4 Choose a nature item and write a poem or song about it.

End Date:

(4 Build a fairy house out of twigs, leaves, stones, and flowers you find on the ground.

(4 Tell or write a story based on the creatures you see.

(4 Plant and water some seeds that are native to your area.

{4 What nature items can you find that show unity in diversity?

(4 Draw your favorite nature item:

(eS

(4 What virtues are seen in a tree?

2 Brilliant Star % vol.s0 No3

[Page 3]CHECK OUT MY NEW BEE-NOCULARS.

“They should see nothing but good in one another, hear nothing but praise of one another, and speak no word of one another save only to praise.” —‘Abdu'l-Baha

n-BEE-lievable! Along with flight, bees have Though we can’t see in UV like bees, we can U the superpower of ultraviolet vision! Ultraviolet develop other “filters.” We can find what’s important

(UV) is a color BEE-yond purple that’s normally by focusing on people's positive qualities. All religions invisible to humans. When we look at a sunflower, we teach us to be kind, loving, and forgiving. When we see yellow petals. But to a bee’s UV vision, there are emphasize the good in people, we encourage them to rings of color, like a target leading them to nectar. It’s like shine with even more joy and kindness. It helps create a filter helping them find flowers that provide food. a more peaceful world—and that’s a superpower!

CWIERI “, HELP US ZOOM IN ON 18 POSITIVE WORDS. SEARCH oa ee OUT HERE! Vins UP, DOWN, BACKWARD, FORWARD, AN? DIAGONALLY. a

RYMFW JLUFKNAHT SRUQIOFFHEH S LINSVIPRIOTI $ || ae YTILIMUHICIRKDE % WOR? a ISUYGPEACEFULGKP can, EPATIENCENVDYFIP << TNNIHDFYCDSHOIQV t—< CROLIRYHSSENDNIKE F ’ Zacrry EMDIEEHTLHIJOYFULJIN jeu RICSBLE PSPBTGIAVITIWJCIN) 42ers SSCIFABPGPKSOTWU 5 He Five! Ba EADXQRRMZJUSTICE RBTEHUTELSPAECFN JULMORPPJOPYLIW WFOCVOEOHMNR YSNTYMXOOAG VETRHUTCT EVOLH =< SY, ‘i A b N\ > MUSIC IS MY Ns d - f 4 = SEE BEE-DUTY IN Tae \ °. 2 HOB-BEE/ Meee / j EVERYONE! | LZ AL. S\ \ N Ve v)\ In Concept by David Hooper VOL.50 No.3 w& Brilliant Star 3 [Page 4]oe te

A Brief Timeline

wi eb

The life of the Bab

The highlighted area marks the time in which this story takes place.

1819 October 20 Birth of the Bab in Shiraz, ran

1842 August Marries Khadijih Bagum,

1843 Birth of their son, Ahmad, who soon dies

Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Babi Faith

1844 December Announces His station while on pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia

1847 July

Imprisonment in the fortress of Mah-Ku (The Open Mountain)

1848 April 10 __| Transfer to the fortress of Chihriq, (The Grievous Mountain)

1848 July

Declares His mission to leaders in Tabriz, Iran, and is punished with the bastinado

1850 July 9 The Bab is martyred in Tabriz, Iran.

ty ey ti

House Arrest

he cruel governor, Husayn Khan, wanted the Bab put in chains.

He was angered by the Bab's declaration that He was the Promised One of Islam. Guards set out on horses to capture the Bab and bring Him from Bushihr to Shiraz, Persia (now Iran).

But before the guards reached Him, the Bab rode out to greet them, saying, “Here am I; do with Me as you please.”

The commander of the guards admired the Bab and didn't want to arrest Him. He tried to ride past Him, but the Bab insisted that he follow his orders. Astonished, the commander dismounted his horse to kiss the Bab’s stirrups and urge Him to escape. The Bab stayed firm. He continued to Shiraz with the guards following behind.

The Bab was placed under house arrest. He wasn't allowed visitors, but people couldn't stay away. Even the shah sent his advisor, Vahid, to meet the Bab and judge the truth of His claims.

In their meetings, the Bab answered complex spiritual questions while Vahid listened in wonder. On his third visit, Vahid was so overcome by the Bab that he couldn't stand up anymore. The Bab sat beside him, held his hand, and revealed verses that Vahid had hoped to hear. He became a devoted Babi.

The governor's jealousy grew. He told the chief of police to sneak into the home where the Bab was staying and arrest Him. He intended to kill the Bab that very night.

As the chief of police arrested the Bab, a strange commotion caught his attention. A line of mourners passed,

Historical engraving of Bushihr, a city on the Persian Gulf, where the Bab lived after returning from His pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia.

weeping and carrying coffins. Panic spread as people ran through the streets, trying to escape a deadly disease sweeping through the city.

Unsure what to do with his prisoner, the chief brought the Bab to his home, where they found his son on the brink of death from the disease. Desperate, he threw himself at the Bab’s feet, begged forgiveness, and asked Him to save his son.

The Bab washed His face for prayers and sent that same water to the child. Amazingly, after drinking it, the boy began to recover. The chief wrote to the govemor, asking him to stop the attacks on the Bab.

The governor released the Bab, but insisted that He leave Shiraz immediately. In the summer of 1846, the Bab left His wife and mother in His uncle's care, assuring them of “God's all-encompassing love and protection.”

Despite many challenges, the Bab continued sharing His message of unity, warming hearts and preparing people for the coming of Baha‘ullah.

4 Brilliant Star % vol.s0 Nos

Engraving: duncant890 [Page 5]HAL

Z, 7, | \he amazing monarch caterpillar can grow

= Sometimes our lower nature craves things that aren't = E > good for us, like playing video games for too long FE POSIGIVE ¥

yy aoeow ~a

s of Transformation a) , ~ 4

N . ] /

r \\ FILL IN THE eruyzaL THEN MATCH EACH ONE YE aa : 4 OF THESE SPIRITUAL jm TO THE CATERPILLAR IT © / LZ 2,000 times its size as it transforms from I BUTTERFLIES. 2 CAN HELP TRANSFORM. %

an egg into a butterfly. That’s like a human ~— baby growing up to weigh seven tons!

Like caterpillars, people go through big physical changes. We also transform spiritually as we learn to use our virtues and overcome challenges.

There are two sides of our spirits described in the Baha'i writings—our higher and lower nature. Our higher __~ nature is made up of virtues, such as honesty and 2 Kip

patience. Our lower nature is our negative qualities. vas ae K 1, ‘

{ i// when we need to do homework. Or we may get y) impatient with a sibling when we're in a bad mood. V ,

If you're struggling to practice virtues, ask yourself what your hero or role model might do. Saying prayers can guide your spirit, too. We all have the power to transform and wing our way toward being our best self. Go

/

PAN J M@T@BATED

> ae SZ ,

<<

“= 5 GIBIEG

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 voL.s0 No.3 »% Brilliant Star 5 [Page 6]The hife of Baha'u'llah

The highlighted

area marks the time in which thisstory takes place.

1817 November 12 Birth of Baha'u'llah in Tihrén, Iran

1844 Recognizes the Bab as anew Messenger of God

ABh22_ Fair’ | Imprisonment in the “Black Pit’ of Tihrén

1853-1863

Exile in Baghdad, Irag. From 1854-1856, He goes into the mountains to pray in solitude.

Declares Divine Mission as Prophet-Founder of the Baha't Faith

1863-1868 _| Exile in Constantinople (Istanbul), then Adrianople (Edirne), Turkey. Begins writing letters to kings and rulers in 1867, urging world unity

1868 Last exile, to prison- city of ‘Akka, Israel

AST PVE a) Finally free to live in countryside homes of Mazra‘ih and then Bahji, outside ‘Akka

Baha'u'llah passes away at Bahj/.

t's incredible to think about meeting a Messenger of God, but can you imagine meeting two? The Bab and Baha'u'llah are the only Messengers of God known to have lived at the same time in history. Baha'u'llah was a devoted follower of the Bab. They wrote to each other, but never met in person. In 1844, the Bab gave Mulla Husayn, the first person to believe in Him, a special mission. The Bab asked him to travel through Persia (now Iran) and. announce that the Promised One of Islam had come. He assured Mulla Husayn that he would find a “Mystery” of incredible holiness. In Tihran, Mulla Husayn heard about Baha'u'llah, Who was then a nobleman known as Mirza Husayn-‘Alt. A student

who knew Him said He was kind, loving,

and a friend to the poor. Mulla Husayn asked the student to deliver a scroll of the Bab's writings to Baha'u'llah.

When Baha'u'llah read the scroll,

He immediately recognized the station of the Bab as a Messenger of God. He said, “Whoso believes in the Qur'an... and yet hesitates ... to admit that these soul-stirring words are endowed with the same regenerating power, has most assuredly erred in his judgment...”

To express His thanks, Baha'u'llah sent Mulla Husayn a package of tea and Russian sugar, which were rare in Persia at the time. Mulla Husayn kissed the gift, thrilled to hear that Baha‘u'llah had accepted the Bab.

Soon Baha'u'llah traveled to His family's home in the province of

Mazindaran to share the Bab's teachings.

In the village of Takur, in the Mazindarn province, Baha'u'llah welcomed many people into His home to learn about the teachings of the Bab.

Attracted by Baha’u'llah's purity, dignity, and eloquence, people flocked to His home. Many became Babis. Baha'u'llah said, “Whosoever has inclined his ear

to this Message has felt its irresistible power, and has been transformed by the potency of its grace.”

Mulla Husayn wrote to the Bab about Baha'u'llah and the many people who had become Babis. This letter cheered the Bab and filled Him with hope. He felt sure that if anything should happen to Him, Baha'u'llah would guide His Faith.

Toward the end of His life, the Bab sent His writings, pen case, seals, and rings to Baha'u'llah. After the Bab was martyred in 1850, Baha'u'llah led the Babi community. In 1863, He declared that He was the Messenger of God promised by the Bab.

Baha'u'llah taught that all religions come from the same God, and that we are all part of one family. His teachings encourage us to use our virtues, such as service, justice, and equality, to help bring peace and unity to the world.

6 Brilliant Star # voL.s0 No3

Photo © Baha’ International Community [Page 7]Use the key to decode a quote from Baha'u'llah, written in American Sign Language fingerspelling,

ro seenee So fh 6 of @ 1b BS oe iW sw ch ude n n@ of ee usp 19 uh 1G Wh xQ rp 78

VoL.50 No.3 % Brilliant Star 7

[Page 8]8

Peaceful Practices

rayer and meditation can

uplift your soul. These

spiritual practices can also help your mind and body.

Prayer is a time to talk to God, while meditation is reflection with our spirit. For example, in prayer, we may ask for guidance or offer thanks. During meditation, we quiet our thoughts and listen.

Both practices can boost health by releasing stress and anxiety. Some studies find that when we see God as a source of comfort, peaceful feelings from prayer may improve our mood and help ease sadness or worry. Meditation may increase self-control, boost creativity, and improve sleep. Even two minutes of silence can help refresh the brain and body.

The benefits are so strong that some schools offer meditation in class. When students have quiet

Curiosity Canopy

y = 0

ie aa R1

WHEN T PRAY AN? MEDITATE, MY BODY, MIND, AND SOUL FEEL TERRIFIC!

moments in their day, they tend to be less anxious, concentrate longer, and get into fewer arguments. A few deep breaths before answering a tough question or taking a test can help calm you. Or, if you're feeling upset, close your eyes and imagine a peaceful place.

Some practices combine meditation and breathing with movement. Yoga has roots in Hinduism and Buddhism. Tai chi, karate, and other martial arts harmonize the mind and body. These practices may improve strength, flexibility, balance, and inner peace.

If you want to soothe your mind, body, and spirit, try one of these tools and see what it does for you.

LEV’S R

Stee

ome meditation can actually help you be kinder!

Metta, or meditation on loving-kindness, is often used by Buddhists. It increases positive feelings and can help people be more compassionate and forgiving with themselves and others. The more they practice, the more loving they feel.

Brilliant Star % voL.50 No3

REST

“Send down... from the clouds of Thy

mercy the rains of Thy healing...” —Baha’u’llah

Explore & Soar: Get Inspired

reathing can be inspiring!

To “inspire” means to inhale or to fill with positive motivation. Try these practices to do both.

o Sit upright with eyes closed. Breathe in, pulling love into your heart and body. Breathe out,

sending that love to a friend.

o Lie flat with one hand on your belly and one on your chest. Imagine a balloon in a calm color and feel your stomach rise, filling the balloon as you inhale for four seconds. Then let the air out, exhaling for four seconds.

oO Stand with feet about hip-width apart, hands clasped in front of you. Breathe in, raising hands above your head. Then breathe out and quickly drop hands down between your legs, like chopping wood for a campfire.

Photos: Meditation by Mike Powell, martial art by somethingway, Buddhist by ugurhan [Page 9]WaT

light. The sun helps all creatures. It fuels plants and the qualities of His Messengers, such as Buddha, Jesus, trees, which give us oxygen and food. You can feel Muhammad, the Bab, and Baha'u'llah. We can also see God's the sun, butit’s impossible to truly comprehend it. It'saball _attributes in people when they show love and other virtues. of gas so massive that 1.3 million Earths could fit inside of it! When we take in spiritual nourishment from God, we Just as the sun is a mystery, God’s essence is unknowable. can make fruitful contributions to the world. Ep6O S77 AERA LRP Oe SE SA SSR IOs Co = die At this farm stand, fill in the letters to find ways to build true friendships with pu of allh ATS

0: asummer day, you enjoy the sun’s warmth and Our minds can grasp some things about God through

2 Z fh an

BE __ IND AND § RESPECT THE BELIEFS my C & Sa AND PRACTICES OF | OTHER FAITHS. im

7 wi _EANr REET fe, EA __N ABOUT —= PEOPLE OF ALL FAITHS ae THE TEACHINGS OF = WITH FRIENDLINESS, VARIOUS RELIGIONS.

TALK ABOUT B__LI VS De LI INTERESTS, OR HOBBIES STICK . FOR__ RIE ps ==

| YOU HAVE IN COMMON. WHO ARE BULLIED ABOUT ‘ FAITH, OR TELL AN ADULT.

LOOK FOR NOBLE Q@_A_ ITI IN EVERYONE.

Ve B WN

ABOUT YOUR BELIEFS, AND Sg DON’T PUSH THEM |

ie ON OTHERS, a

APPRECIMTE THE Z WE_cl__y to — Tuatmces our fe B wor ecatru. |e

Ve i Z - STARFRUIT NG watermeton = = LE os

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28 voL.50 N03 % Brilliant Star 9

[Page 10]G a an { uring the winter, nature is frozen and quiet. Hibernating .: animals protect themselves by snuggling into dark caves or dens and falling into a deep sleep. They slow down their breathing and heart rates. When spring ) comes, the sun shines, leaves sprout, and flowers perfume | the air. Nature wakes up to new life. In a similar way, the history of the world has spiritual | seasons. Through the ages, humanity has gone dormant when people don’t use their virtues and noble qualities.

The world is dark, and people lose hope. Then, like the arrival of spring, God sends a new Messenger.

When the Bab declared that He was God’s Messenger, it was like rays of sunshine warming Earth. People’s spirits were energized by His teachings of love and unity. He said that the next Messenger would bring even more light to the world.

Today, people everywhere continue to be awakened and invigorated by sincerely exploring God’s teachings.

"RR fH

Vy (as) oa @ ~ fy) “@ ‘s) *~ i wy = aS ~— ee . im \ Vd Ling SS y i ? y Yi BRA Dp Q a DITA pRAUED p DIO ATIF 0 D ARTO PRAIRIE DOG Q 0 i y p 5 AY ie - GY fi, m 4 MY HIBERNATING HAN \\ wy 1 WY FRIENDS ARE S\N \\ Sia gor WAKING UP TO ~ INS 5 \ GS Rn RINGTIME. ' Sih | : ore: fy \ - \ h : I; } vy sy) ree » y } \ . FIN THE NINE = j EV FOR | oe ASS AOS VIRTUES a & pA Wey TALHEL? us DW /, i AT DISCOVER LL SPIRITUAL = . a) TRUTH.

Brilliant Star % voLs50 No3

10

VERS ON PAGE 28 [Page 11]We = ARE

OUR CONNECTIONS )

A series of satellites in NASA's and U.S. Geological Survey's Landsat program has monitored Earth for nearly 50 years. Landsat 7 and 8 are in orbit, 438 miles (705 km) above us, taking hundreds of images daily. Comparing images from long ago with current ones lets scientists see changes in water resources, agriculture, urban growth, deforestation, and more. This treasury of data helps scientists find ways to protect our one and only Earth.

2) WHERE IN THE WORLD?

“All the members of this endless universe are linked one to another.” —Baha’'i Writings )

———————

EXPLoRE AND PROTECT THE EARTH AnD ITs CREATURES

Earth has about three trillion trees. It might sound like a lot, but 15 billion are cut down each year.

Fresh Fruit Trees filter out air and water pollution, absorb carbon dioxide, and provide homes and food for animals. Plant a fruit tree in your yard, and you can eat the food too.

Dr. Matthew Hansen, a geographer in Maryland, uses satellite images to monitor deforestation. Hansen and his team can detect forest changes fast enough to alert governments to illegal logging. He says, “We want data to

be openly available so that all groups have the same sets of facts, and everyone can use these facts to manage their natural resources.”

With tails longer

than their bodies

and pouches to carry their young, these marsupials live in

the rainforests of Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Australia. Many species are threatened

The Amazon, Earth’s largest rainforest, is home to about 400 tribes who have amazing knowledge, including how to use plants as medicine. Their way of life needs protection from deforestation and climate change. Unscramble the letters to see where half of the Amazon is located:

ZABILR

by deforestation. Fill in the blanks to find their name:

TR KA

GAR S

Images: Satelite by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, bird by jamesleet O by John T. Consoli, river by Dekaro, animal by CraigRJD RS ON PAGE 28

voL.50 N03 ¥ Brilliant Star

11

[Page 12]4q,J

ee LIGHTNING & LUNA

ball — TRUE VISION BAXTER ANP BRIDGET #82

IN PROFESSOR PROWD’S LAR... -| za 7 Z BE a a | bf tue uruirters! P = / | IFICAN . Y _~ beh . iy has gn 2 S| :! ~ /

| JUST ZAP THEIR L} HANDCUFFS , WITHOUT SY) P| HURTING THEM—

|| YES! LET'S SHOW EVERYONE THE [I TRuTHABOUT | W'S GREED!

12 Brilliant Star % voLs50 No3 [Page 13]Ry

\ ~S Lo io,

+) WHY WOULD WE SERVE SUCH A SELFISH.

SCOUNDREL?

/ f_ K + Zh TAY Bs Lt y ‘ ] FOOLS/ MY COLD |S REAL, AND (4 W's ALL MINE! MONEY is POWER! KS 7 WHY WOULD T SHARE IT WITH YOUF 7

N Zs | 4

A

LET’S PUT HIM IN THE DUNGEON NOW!

A YOU'LL NEVER | SET ENOUGH. IT

PROWD, YOU’RE SURROUNZED BY UPLIFTERS!

WILL KILL YOU. 7 “8 OVER! bX SS — E>. \—

JUST LET iT 60.

a)

<0 ME, TOO! SO FS HAEEY || evko you're

you, sis! |} OKAY! GREAT

q =F TEAMWORK!

WE’RE LUCKY TO HAVE EACH OTHER. ‘ HOW SAP THAT PROWD ONLY LOVES GOLD. |

le

- NSA

PROWD WAS HIDING THE: REAL GOLD FOR HIMSELF! |

\\aiy IMAGINE ALL SOOP THAT CO! BE DONE WITH

wn No Ie

ck.

DEVIOUS AND DANGEROUS, ZAPPO. HOW

MANY ARE STILL QUT THERE?

vOL.50 N03 % Brilliant Star 13 [Page 14]Herald of Pea

The Bab’s life and Missio

O October 20, 1819 The Birth of the Bab

Born in Shiraz, Persia (now Iran), the Bab (“the Gate”) was named Siyyjid ‘Ali-Muhammad. “Siyyid’ is a title given to descendants of the Prophet Muhammad.

1834

An Honest Merchant At 1, the Bab began working as a merchant with His uncles. He was well respected

for His honesty and attention to detail.

October 1842 The Bab’s Marriage

The Bab married His friend, Khadijih Bagum. They had one son, Ahmad, who died soon after his birth.

1843

AGlimpse of a Revelation

The Bab said that one night, in a dream, “the Spirit of God had permeated

and taken possession of My soul... and the mysteries of His Revelation were unfolded before My eyes...”

May 23, 1844

Declaration of the Bab

in Shiraz, Persia

Mulla Husayn traveled across Persia seeking the Promised One of Islam. Two hours and 11 minutes after sunset on May 22, the Bab announced His mission to Mulla Husayn. He said, “I am the Bab, the Gate of God...”

Public Announcement in Mecca, Arabia While on pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Mecca, the holiest shrine of Islam, the Bab announced His station three times to the crowd of pilgrims.

The Kaaba in Mecca

The Bab’s claim that He was the Promised One of Islam brought joy to those who believed Him, but angered and confused others. The governor of Shiraz ordered His arrest.

Mah-Kd, Persia

) April 10, 1848

oO

Transfer to the Fortress of

Chihriq, Persia His jailors and the people in Mah-Ku grew to love the Bab. Officials sent Him to a more remote prison that He named “the Grievous Mountain.” Here too, He gained admiration.

Conference of Badasht, Persia Baha'u'llah called a meeting of the Bab’s followers. In the village of Badasht, 81 Babis learned about the new laws and teachings of the Bab.

Chihrig, Persia

1819-1843 1844—184

14

Brilliant Star % voL.50 No3

Engraving by ZU_09; photo © Baha’ International Community [Page 15]Challenge in Tabriz, Persia Ata trial, the Bab announced that He was the Promised One of Islam. The authorities punished the Bab by beating the soles of His feet 11 times. Then He was taken back

to Chihrig.

) October 1848—May 1849 Battle of Fort Tabarsi

Ata fort they had built around the shrine of Shaykh Tabarsi, 313 Babis defended themselves against an army of about 12,000.

After seven months, the Babis were tricked into surrendering, and most were killed. When the Bab learned of this, He was described as “crushed with grief” and “tears rained continually from His eyes...”

ret

1848-1849

Border pattern by Anastasia-Ku

Attacks on the Babis in

Zanjan and Nayriz, Persia

The Babis were forced to defend themselves against armies and angry mobs. They showed great courage, but were outnumbered. Over the years, about 20,000 Babis were martyred throughout Persia.

fe’

) June 1850 APrecious Gift

The Bab sent His rings, seals, writings, and pen case as gifts to Baha'u'llah. On a scroll of fine blue paper, the Bab had written 360 versions of the word “Baha” in exquisite calligraphy, in the form

of a star. Babis who saw the scroll marveled at its outstanding artistry.

In Tabriz, 750 soldiers fired at the Bab and one of His faithful followers, Anis. When the smoke cleared, they were found unharmed. At noon, the second attempt to kill the Bab and His companion succeeded. A dust storm arose, blocking the sun until that night.

Military barracks in Tabriz, where the Bab was martyred

O 1863 The Bab’s Mission Is Fulfilled The Bab had told His followers to seek “Him Whom God shall make manifest,” the next Messenger of God. In April 1863, Baha'u'llah announced that He was the One that the Bab had foretold.

1850-1863

VoL.50 No.3 % Brilliant Star

15 [Page 16]V4 (J ik 9 ord rovide for the speedy growth of the Tree of Thy divine Unity... . bh pi

id you know that trees are among the longest Garden of Eden. In the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, a living things in the world? They're also a powerful lote tree is seen by the Prophet Muhammad in heaven. symbol rooted in the world’s diverse religions. In the Baha'i writings, trees are used poetically by the

Sacred fig trees are often found in Hindu stories Bab and Baha'u'llah. The Bab called His followers the } and worship. Buddhists believe that Buddha received “leaves and fruit of the same tree.” knowledge from God while meditating under a fig tree. Like a tree nourishes our bodies, faith offers us spiritual For Jews and Christians, the Bible begins with a story food and shelter for our souls. By turning to God’s teachings about Adam and Eve eating fruit from a tree in the for strength and guidance, we can all grow in love and unity.

- wy opyomrr rer In this orange tree growing near the Shrine of the Bab, fill in blank oranges with letters to find words that relate to all religions. Connected oranges have the same letter.

16 Brilliant Star % voLs50 No3

| [Page 17]Ss

hen anew Messenger of God appears, humanity is W inspired to make discoveries or create inventions. Science progressed dramatically in the 19th century, soon after the Bab declared that He was a Messenger. In fact, on May 24, 1844, about a day after the Bab’s declaration, Samuel Morse sent the first long-distance message with the electrical telegraph in the U.S. It was a Bible verse in Morse code: “What hath God wrought.”

Incredible “

Inventions

“With the advent of each of the Manifestations of God, astonishing progress was attained in the realm of human minds, thoughts, and spirits.” —‘Abdu’l-Baha

< D vs What invention would you create to help unite humanity and build peace? Draw it in the makerspace below, and write about it on the board.

Previous telegraphs had been invented by others, but this fast and practical system sent a message of dots and dashes using around 40 miles of overhead wire. It was a turning point in history. This communication device soon connected U.S. cities and linked to Europe. Inventions continue to unite the world. Today, we can

connect with people around the planet via video calls or the Internet. Imagine what awesome wonders our future holds!

voL.50 N03 % Brilliant Star [Page 18]they help you get around safely at night. Lanterns also remind me of the world’s religions. Each faith shines with the same light of God’s love and wisdom. Some teachings of major religions differ because they guide us as we evolve through the ages. But all faiths have constant, universal truths, such as the need for kindness and good deeds. Sometimes injustices or even wars are caused because

[= how lanterns light up, like me! They're fun, and

WE LOVE LIGHT

3 (a)Centera vertical stick onleft >

Light OF LOve: Make Your Oun Lontern

“Should the lamp of religion be obscured, chaos and confusion will ensue, and the lights of fairness and justice, of tranquility and peace cease to shine.” —Baha’u'llah

people think their faith is the only right one. To have unity, it helps to focus on the common source of guidance for the world’s religions, which is God. When we truly follow God’s teachings, all paths illumine our way to a more just and peaceful planet.

How do you like to share the light of religion with others? From prayer parties to holy day celebrations, this craft can make your events even more brilliant!

Youll Need

+ jumbo craft + ruler sticks 6" x 3%" (15.2x19cm) — + tacky glue

pencil + masking tape

+ four pieces of + four 4%" (11.4 4"x1"(10.2x25 cm)square

cm) card stock sheets colored, - transparent rice

scissors or tissue paper

+ jumbo paper + small battery- Clips operated candle 1 Place eight horizontal sticks 2 Without moving c ) = in a row in front of you. Make sticks, lay strip of " row’s sticks even on all sides to tape across center form a rectangular shape. of entire row. =

ie edge of row. Secure a second | = stick next to it by putting glue on

every other horizontal stick.

(b) Repeat Step 3 on right edge

of row.

18 Brilliant Star % voL.s0 No3 [Page 19]4 Repeat Steps 1-3 three more times, so you have four lantern walls. Let sticks dry. Remove tape and every stick that’s not glued, so there are matching spaces between sticks.

8 To make bottom of lantern, lay four horizontal sticks in an even row. Center five vertical sticks on top. Secure far left and far right vertical sticks with glue. Let dry.

5 From short ends, draw a line lengthwise along center of each piece of card stock. Fold each piece in half 2 along centerline, using edge of a stick to help.

= 9 (a)Remove unglued sticks. Trim off ends of two vertical sticks. (b) Flip bottom over. Glue bottom onto lantern’s base so it’s centered across wall edges. Let dry.

24 yb zz ~ — a

a"), | — 6 To form acorner of E & lantern, push ends / I ™ i of one wall’s sticks { through the open . spaces at ends of ry

another wall. Make 10 Turn lantern right side up. Glue rice or tissue sure each wall’s two paper onto each inner wall. Add a battery- vertical sticks face up. operated candle and watch it glow!

7 Glue card stock inside center of lantern corner, using paper clips to hold card and walls in } place. Repeat Steps 6-7 for | all corners. Let dry. Carefully remove clips.

voL.50 N03 % Brilliant Star 19 [Page 20]Age: »

| live in:

| want to be:

This career interests me because:

| like to pray:

Virtue | admire most:

Favorite Baha’ activities: MW henteomeanciaslaebort

the Baha’i Faith, | say: A hero or role model:

«

Connect with kids around the world! fl could ask God a x“ How are they like you? How are they question, I'd ask: When | feel worried or sad: different? Each of us has a unique "

story to tell. What’s yours?

Age: Favorite Baha’i activities:

llike to pray: <<

Favorite Baha’ activities:

| live in:

| want to be: 4

A hero or role model:

b y \ Ahero or role model: When someone asks about

This career interests the Baha'i Faith, | say:

me because: Age: Hive in: If could ask God a question, I’d ask: Wines ladaaonnests lf someone isn’t sure there | want to be: is a God, I'd say: This career interests me . because: Als IeSore zens If someone isn’t sure there is a God, I'd say: | like to pray:

Virtue | admire most:

Hobbies or sports:

Places I'd love to visit: y

To help religions get along in peace, I'd When | feel worried or sad:

holy writings, and music. consultation, and fellowship.

rigs for sharing pray nunity gathering with pr.

20 Brilliant Star % voL.50 No3 “Devotio

“Feast

[Page 21]Age: live in

| want to be:

This career interests me because

Virtue | admire most:

Hobbies or sports: y

A hero or role model:

If someone isn’t sure there is a God, I'd say:

Age: | live in: | want to be:

This career interests me because:

Virtues | admire most

Favorite Baha’/ activities:

If someone isn’t sure there

is a God, I'd say:

To help religions get along in peace, I'd:

Favorite Baha'i activities:

To help religions get along in peace:

| like to pray:

A hero or role model:

When someone asks about the Baha'i Faith, | say:

When | feel worried or sad:

x4

radiant star:

Age:

| live in:

| want to be:

This career interests If someone isn’t sure

me because: there is a God, I'd say: uO When someone asks about

Virtue | admire most: the Baha’i Faith, | say:

Favorite Baha’i activities:

Aliant @rtiella tatstelal > When | feel worried or sad: wk

To help religions get along in peace, I'd:

1. If you're age 7-14, go to www. brilliantstarmagazine.org. From the top menu, choose “Discover.” Then click “Become a Radiant Star or Trailblazer,” and fill out the form. Or e-mail us at brilliant@usbnc.org. Include your name, age, birth date, mailing address, and phone number.

. When it’s your turn to shine, we'll send you questions

and a form for you and your parents to sign. mh

. Answer the questions and send them to us with the signed form, 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- Ys protected images (like school portraits). «x »”

VoL.50 N03 % Brilliant Star ai [Page 22]ensho B. Age: 11 > I live in: Illinois, U.S.

| want to be: Chef

This career interests me because:

Ilove cooking.

Hobbies or sports: te Art, drawing, RPGs [role-playing games], video games, hiking, camping, cooking

Virtue | admire most: Kindness

Favorite Baha’i activities: Praying at the Temple*

To help religions get along in peace, I'd:

Ask them to team up and clean the oceans of all the trash, and maybe they would become friends by working together on that

A favorite food: Sushi

Yasmine A.

Age: 10

| live in: Virginia, U.S. | want to be: A teacher

This career interests me because:

Tlike helping younger kids learn.

Hobbies or sports: Gymnastics, art, travel, service, and [family time] Favorite Baha’ activities: Children’s class

Virtue | admire most: Truthfulness

A hero or role model: Mommy

If | could ask Goda % question, I'd ask:

Can I see my grandpas again someday?

If someone isn’t sure there is a God, I'd say:

It’s up to them to see God in their heart.

When someone asks about the Baha'i Faith, | say:

It’s a way of life that recognizes the unity of mankind and the beauty of Earth.

When | feel worried or sad: I feel better when I pray to God.

-*

Place I'd love to visit:

Ijust went—pilgrimage in the Holy Land [Israel]

If | could ask God a question, I'd ask: * About my future —I always wonder about it If someone isn’t sure there is a God, I'd say:

Your choice, but the world would be chaos

without His teachings.

To help religions get along in peace, I'd:

Teach people about Baha’u'llah LY | like to pray:

On the way to school in the mornings and in my room with my family at night

When | feel worried or sad: [My faith] has given mea prayer book

Ican use.

Shiraz T. Age: 10

x

I live in: California, U.S. | want to be: A doctor

This career interests me

because:

Iwant to help people get better if they are

sick. My mom is also

a doctor.

Virtues | admire most: Cleanliness and kindness

Favorite Baha'i activities: Children’s classes

A hero or role model: ¥ My parents ... they are kind and loving, and they love to help people.

If someone isn’t sure there is a God, I'd say:

There is a God, because I feel God whenever I say prayers. I feel love and closeness to Him...

Anis-Nur A.

Age: 7

llive in: Arizona, U.S. | want to be: A doctor

This career interests me because:

Ilike to help people + and those kids in the orphanage that I was at in Democratic Republic of Congo before I was adopted by my parents. Favorite Baha’i activities: Making a handprint and writing all the Baha’i virtues [in] each finger Place I’d love to visit:

Iran, where my mother

was born

When | feel worried or sad: Ikeep saying that it is okay and God is here.

Favorite animal: Lion »

Ahero or role model: My mom

If | could ask God a question, I'd ask: What it looked like before our universe was created

| like to pray:

In my room alone.

The quiet helps me to concentrate, and there is nothing to distract me.

When someone asks about the Baha’i Faith, | say:

The Baha'i Faith is a world religion for today. And Baha’u'llah is the Messenger of God for today. He came to teach everyone about peace and oneness of religion.

If | could ask Goda question, I'd ask:

How humans are made

If someone isn’t sure there is a God, I'd say:

Come with us to the Baha’i Center to learn more about God.

To help religions get along in peace, I'd:

Make sure that everybody gets treated the same way, no matter what race or religion they are

| like to pray:

In my bed at night before I go to sleep

22

Brilliant Star % voL.50 No3

Bahd'i House of Worship in Illinois, U.S.

eligion and faith can be difficult to talk about. These topics can lead to disunity. People from diverse faiths follow different teachings, and some people don’t believe in God at all. But God created religion to bring unity and peace to everyone. Talking about faith can lead to deeper and more meaningful friendships.

{] YOU HAVE TO FOLLOW OUR RELIGION TO 60 TO HEAVEN.

Interfatt ith 7 School Club

It's okay for friends to have different opinions about religion. Be respectful of other beliefs about faith. Try to find some common ground. For example, do you both believe it’s important to be kind to our fellow humans and to all creatures on Earth?

If a friend or classmate says something disrespectful about your faith, what do you say?

WHY DO WE EVEN NEEP RELIGION? IT JUST CAUSES FIGHTS—EVEN WARS. ff

60P. BUT | KNOW

TO SEEK TRUTH FOR THEMSELVES.

EVERYONE NEEDS | og | WE WERE CREATED BY GOP.

TWERE’S NORE THAN ONE PATH | | RELIGIONS SAY TOHEAVEN. ALRELIGIONS [gp] WE SHOULD BE HAVE TEACHINGS THAT CAN KIND 10 EXCH

HELP US. LET’S JOIN THIS OTHER. CAN WE CLUB AND CHECK IT OUT. AGREE ON THAT? WRITE WHAT YOU wouLp say: I BELIEVE IN LOOK AT HOW AWESOME

OUR PLANET IS. I BELIEVE

IT’S OKAY IF YOU BELIEVE SOMETHING DIFFERENT.

WRITE WHAT YOU WouLp Say:

EOP SENT RELIGION TO BRING LOVE AND UNITY TO THE WORLD. SOME PEOPLE FIGHT, BUT MOST PEOPLE

0 GOOP THINGS.

RELIGION GIVES ALOT OF PEOPLE GUIDANCE OR | ABOUT TREATING OTHERS THE WAY WE WANT TO BE TREATED.

WRITE WHAT YOU WouLD Say:

vol.s0 N03 % Brilliant Star 23

[Page 24]a jae) N < O a <= 7)

Q:

A:

Dr. Moojan Momen

What's your favorite childhood memory?

A few weeks before my 12th birthday, | went with my mother and brother on pilgrimage [in Israel] ... We slept for two nights in the mansion of Bahji . . . [near] the room of Baha'u'llah... One memory that comes across very strongly ... was the warmth and kindness of our two guides.

What was the most challenging

experience for you as a kid?

Getting to England and... not

knowing anything about the culture or the language, and sort of being thrust in at the deep end ... [But] the teachers . . . were all very kind and helped us... learn the language very quickly ...

magine being five years old and traveling thousands of miles across the globe by bus, boat, and train. Then, what if you started school in a new country and had to learn a new language? This adventure is one of Dr. Moojan Momen's earliest memories. Moojan was born in Iran, and his father passed away when he was three. His mother moved the family to England for better education. Moojan says she set a “heroic” example with her courage. With determination, Moojan studied medicine and Arabic and Islamic culture at Cambridge University. He became a family doctor and a well-respected scholar of the Baha'i Faith. He's written or edited more than 20 books. He's also a trustee of the Afnan Library in England, one of the world's richest collections of Baha'i books, photos, and other treasures. Now retired from his 40-year medical career, Moojan continues to study, write, and teach about Baha'i history and beliefs. He lives in England with his wife, Wendi.

Left: Moojan (right, about age 5) and his brother, Hooman, found it exciting to move to England. Right: As a youth, Moojan (second from right) did service in the Gambia and other African countries.

Q: What is the Afnan Library?

A: [As] a medical student... | [met] Hand of the Cause Mr. [Hasan] Balyuzi*. .. When he unfortunately passed away in 1980... he wished ... his books to form the nucleus of a research library .. . It's an evolving collection based upon the Baha'i Faith [and related] subjects . . .

Q: What are some of the coolest items in the Afnan Library?

A: We've got things from the family of the Bab going back a long time. We have some original tablets of ‘Abdu'l-Baha and letters of Shoghi Effendi... We have all sorts of interesting items [and] .. . photographs.

Brilliant Star % voL.50 No3

A Hand ofthe Cause of God served the Baha'i community in significant ‘ways, including encouraging others in teaching and protecting the Fath [Page 25]Answers with an

Q:

A:

Why is it important to learn about different religions? [When] teaching the Baha'i Faith to other people, it's good to know something about their religion ... Another reason [is that] .. . we still haven't really explored the Baha’i Faith from a Buddhist perspective or from a Hindu perspective . . . Exploring the other religions, particularly with help from people of that religion, we can actually... understand the Baha'i Faith better, because we'll be seeing ... aspects of the Baha'i Faith that we were blind to...

What's your advice for kids who

might be shy about sharing the Baha'i Faith with others?

| was very shy when | was a

child ... | think you have to just create good friendships with people to whom you can start talking about the Baha'i Faith. . . You gradually gain confidence to talk to them.

Q:

A:

Q:

Every child has to look to their own ability . . . If they are an artist...

Q: A:

Top: Moojan and his family attended the opening of the Baha’i Temple in Chile in 2016 (left to right): granddaughter, Aaliyeh; wife, Wendi; grandson, Dreyfus; daughter, Carmel; son-in-law, Ashley. Left: Moojan enters the Afnan Library, which is in a former chapel built in 1854 in Sandy, England. Right: With his wife, Wendi, Moojan shows documents to a guest in the Afnan Library in 2019.

What is something you would like kids to know about the Bab?

I've written... about the Bab as an artist .. . He wrote about how when you have ... some materials, like a few lines of calligraphy, it's necessary to bring them to their state of perfection—to write it in as beautiful a handwriting as possible and then to adorn it... with decoration . . . This state of perfection is the nearest that that thing comes to God, because it is most perfectly demonstrating one of the attributes of God, which is beauty.

How do you think kids can help to celebrate the birth of the Bab?

they can think about what the Bab says about the arts and try and produce something that's really excellent in the way of arts, whether that's drawing or... [they could] look at... Babi heroes such as Tahirih or Mulla Husayn or someone and develop a sort of drama about that... [they can] dance... They can write poetry...

If you had one wish for Brilliant Star's readers, what would it be? That they make the effort to really get into the Baha'i Faith and study . . . and to follow the guidance that comes from the World Centre... and to just sort of follow that path . .. and gain greater understanding of what it's all about.

Portrait on page 24 and above photos by Immersed Photography

vol.s0 No.3 % Brilliant Star

[Page 26]A Baha'i who served humanit)

%

y with yadiance

Engraving of 19th-century Persia

ear midnight, Khadijin Bagum climbed

the stairs of her home, searching for her

husband, the Bab. A bright light spilled from a room upstairs. Curious to find its source, she opened the door and found the Bab standing with His arms outstretched in prayer.

Khadtjih Bagum knew that her husband had profound spiritual knowledge, but at the time she didn't know that He was a Messenger of God.

As she stood in the doorway, frozen in awe, she realized that the dazzling light was coming from Him. She hurried back to her room, overcome with wonder and unable to sleep all night.

The next morning, she trembled as she entered the breakfast room. The Bab offered her tea and said, "The Almighty God is manifested in Me... God has created Me for a great nt Cause, and you witnessed the divine revelation.” The power of His words calmed her fears and left no room for doubt. She knew that her husband was a Messenger of God and the Promised One of Islam.

Khadijin Bagum was born in

Shiraz, Persia (now Iran) in 1822.

As neighbors and childhood friends,

she and the Bab had a deep bond. One night, she dreamed that she would be His

wife. She woke up feeling overjoyed. They were

married in 1842, and she said, "No words can ever

convey my wonderful feeling of good fortune.” Khadijin Bagum and the Bab had one son

There are

of the time.

named Ahmad. He died soon after his birth. About a year later, in 1844, the Bab declared that He was a Messenger of God. Khadijin Bagum was devoted to Him and was a kind hostess to His followers.

The Bab warned her that they would face many challenges. He revealed a prayer to bring her peace when He was gone. He said, “In the hour of your perplexity, recite this prayer ... I Myself will appear to you and will banish your anxiety.”

In 1846, the Bab was exiled from Shiraz because the governor was angry about His peaceful teachings. Khadijin Bagum never saw Him again.

In 1850, the Bab was martyred in Tabriz. He was executed by a firing squad*

Despite her grief, Khadtjin Bagum

no available comforted Babi women and images of children who were attacked

because of their beliefs. In her later years, she lived in the House of the Bab in Shiraz and met with Babis who visited it as a place of

Khadijih Bagum. Due to inequality, Persian women of her era were often secluded

at home. This pilgrimage. The house was later engraving from destroyed by enemies of the Faith. 1860 shows In 1863, Baha'u'llah declared

traditional dress that He was the Messenger of

God foretold by the Bab. When she learned of this, Khadijih Bagum did not hesitate to recognize His station. Bowing her forehead to the ground, she said, “Offer at His sacred threshold my most humble devotion."

Khadijih Bagum passed away on September 15, 1882, and was buried in Shiraz. Baha'u'llah praised her pure character and steadfastness, designated her as a martyr, and called her “the consort of God.”

26 Brilliant Star # voL.s0 No3

Learn more at https://brilliantstarmagazine.org/uploads/explore/Final.pdf

Engravings: duncan1890, ilbusca [Page 27]LiONHEAR

BO Ney nt ai 3 ou ll 8 eu

ince ancient times, the mighty lion has been a Males protect the group, and females lead the hunt. symbol of royalty and strength across cultures. Since the pride works together, lions have the power The Baha'i writings refer to some early followers —_to take large prey, such as hippos and buffalos. Lions of the Bab as “lion-hearted” for their courage while help to keep the ecosystem in balance by limiting the

being persecuted. With the force of lions, whose number of herd animals.

thunderous roars can be heard for miles, many Babis When we need to stand up for justice or truth, we

sacrificed their lives for their faith. can turn to our “pride” of friends and family for help. The lion is often seen as the “king” of animals. Lions _ Inspired by the lion-like bravery of young Babi heroes,

are the only big cats that live in groups called prides. we can fiercely pounce on fears and challenges.

\N W thy

Ay

As

EJ (By LIONS ARE THE Wi

MRNA am Jp SECON? Larcest MDI! 7 \\\ll)" | Tie) OF THE BIG CATS, Retry! : gy 7 TER TIGERS. uaa

USE B

ANSWERS ON PAGE 28

.50 N03 % Brilliant Star 27

VOL. 5I [Page 28]a

IWS yi ANUZAI NS WO y be ERE ow $22G VY (/

af gga 10 THe YOUNG TREES? AS way THE FOREST

BE WITH YOU.

S CORNER

Look for Cosmo the Chameleon's clues throughout the magazine.

COS

4. Earth’s largest rainforest (p. 11) | 1. Kavi and Diba admire this virtue. (pp. 20-21) 5. All faiths have constant, universal . (p. 18) 2. Bees have vision! (p. 3) 8. A monarch can grow 2,000 times its size as 3. Deep breaths before answering a tough question can it transforms into a butterfly. (p. 5) help you. (p. 8) 10. Khadijih Bagum comforted Babi women and children 6. A powerful symbol rooted in the world’s diverse who were attacked because of their .(p. 26) religions (p. 16) 1. Groups of lions (p. 27) 7. In winter, hibernating animals slow down their 18. Many religions say that refreshes our and heart rates. (p. 10) spirits. (p. 2) 9. On May 24, 1844, Samuel Morse sent the first

long-distance message with the electrical in the U.S. (p. 17)

14. Some teachings of major religions differ because they guide people as we through the ages. (p. 18)

15. The is a ball of gas so massive that 1.3 million (OSD rMoojan Momen says is one of the Earths could fit inside of it! (p. 9) atinbutes ofiGodi(p)25) d 11. Mulla Husayn traveled across -(p. 14) 12. Be respectful of other beliefs about faith. Try to find

some ground. (p. 23)

KEY: T=Top, C=Center, B=Bottom, L=Left, R=Right

Page 5: Humble Hugo-7, Positive Polly-6, Page 10: Bee at far TR, chipmunk at BL, frog Motivated Mova-3, Kind Kay-1, Truthful at CL, hedgehog at BR, marmot at TL, prairie Talia-8, Giving Gus-2, Content Cayla-5, dog at C, snail at CL, snake at CL, turtle at TC

Patient Purdo-4 Page 11: Brazil, Tree kangaroos

Page 16: Faith, community, compassion, wisdom, meditation, unity, prayer, peace, Page 9: 1) Loving, smile; 2) Curious, learn; service, sharing, celebration

3) Compassionate, kind; 4) Perceptive, Page 27: 1 at far TL, 1 at TR, 4at CL,

qualities; 5) Listening, beliefs; 6) Cou- rageous, fiends: 7) Modest, humble;@) 24¢C-4at GR, 2at BL, 2atBC, 2 at BR

Wonder, diversity; 9) Supportive, celebrate Page 29: A-yellow, B-red, C-orange

dj

FROM OUR MAILBOX

Brilliant Star is excellently written... It's made me feel like | have things to improve in. [For an issue theme, I'd choose] religious unity. We Baha'is need to get it in our heads that we're just like anyone else. Just because Baha'u'llah has the message for today doesn’t mean we're superior to anyone. —Ethan E., age 12 Maryland, U.S.

Page 7: “The religion of God is for love and unity; make it not the cause of enmity...”

28 Brilliant Star % voL.s0 No3 [Page 29]; ‘ @MAy 9 ADVENTURE

Nea

[ SPRING OF SEARCH

hrough the ages, God sends Messengers to guide What are its teachings and celebrations? How is it similar to us, such as Moses, Jesus, Muhammad, the Bab, and your faith? Or if a friend says they don’t believe in God, talk Baha'u'llah. Whether we worship in a temple, church, or mosque, about that and find common ground, such as belief in the our faiths have much in common. Though each religion may importance of kindness and generosity. seem to go in a different direction, they all provide a path to God. Everyone doesn’t have to follow the same religion to walk Treat friends’ beliefs with respect, even if they're on a different together on a path to peace. When we start with love, God’s path than you are. Ask about their religion. Who is its Messenger? _light will illumine the way.

of kids are meeting at the re are three doors marked ch group enter?

These three groups Festival of Faith. The by flags. Which door does ea!

(| ROCKS OF JD RESPECT Pmt

. FOREST OF ~ (7 FORGIVENES: —_— [Page 30]*