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1631. The "Hidden Words"—A Collection of Gem-Like Utterances
"…the Hidden Words was originally designated the 'Hidden Book of Fátimih,' and was identified by its Author with the Book of that same name, believed by Shí'ah Islám to be in the possession of the promised Qá'im, and to consist of words of consolation addressed by the angel Gabriel, at God's command, to Fátimih, and dictated to the Imám 'Alí, for the sole purpose of comforting her in her hour of bitter anguish after the death of her illustrious Father. The significance of this dynamic spiritual leaven cast into the life of the world for the reorientation of the minds of men, the edification of their souls and the rectification of their conduct can best be judged by the description of its character given in the opening passage by its Author: 'This is that which hath descended from the Realm of Glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old .…' "
- (Shoghi Effendi: God Passes By, p. 140)
1632. The Meaning of the Name "Hidden Words"
"With regard to your question concerning the meaning of the name 'Hidden Words'. It is, indeed, one of the most suggestive titles of the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. These words are called hidden due to the fact that men have had neither the knowledge nor a true sense of appreciation of them before they were revealed by Bahá’u’lláh. It is through Him, Who is the sole Mouthpiece of God in this age, that spiritual realities and truths have been once more reinterpreted and revealed afresh to mankind. Bahá’u’lláh's Message is thus the only key to a true understanding of the mysteries that envelop man's spiritual life."
- (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, September 1, 1935)
1633. The Hidden Words Have no Sequence
"The Hidden Words have no sequence. They are jewel-like thoughts cast out of the mind of the Manifestation of God to admonish and counsel men.…"
- (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, October 22, 1949)
1634. Passages in Which Bahá’u’lláh Refers to Man as "Son of Spirit"
"As to your second question concerning those passages in the 'Hidden Words' in which Bahá’u’lláh refers to man as 'Son of Spirit', 'Son of existence', 'Son of humanity' etc., the word 'son' used in this connection is a kind of collective noun, meaning mankind and has, therefore, no connotation of any sex differentiation between man and woman whatever."
- (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, January 19, 1935)
1635. Hidden Words (Arabic) No. 13 Explained
"Thou hast asked about the statement in the Hidden Words which reads, 'O Son of Spirit! Turn thy face so that thou mayest find Me within thee, Powerful, Mighty, and Supreme.' This is the statement to which His Holiness, the Christ, referred His Apostles in the Gospel, saying: 'The Father is in the Son and the Son is in you.'
"This is evident that, when the hearts are purified and through the divine education and heavenly teachings become the manifestators of infinite perfections, they are like clear mirrors and the Sun of Truth will reflect with might, power and omnipotence in such mirrors, and to such an extent that whatsoever is brought before them is illumined and ignited. This is a brief interpretation because of lack of time. Therefore, do thou reflect and ponder over it, so that the doors of significance may be opened before thine eyes."
- (‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Extract from Tablet to Thornton Chase, June 1911: Star of the West, Vol. II, Nos. 7 and 8, pp. 11-12)
