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Extracts From Letters Written on Behalf of Guardian on Divorce
Extracts from letters written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi on the Bahá’í teachings discouraging divorce:
“On behalf of the Guardian I wish to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated December 15th, and to express his sorrow at the disharmony existing between you and your husband. He is the more grieved to learn that the situation has reached such a state as to compel you to ask for separation from Mr. —a step which, though legally valid from the standpoint of the Cause, is nevertheless most sad and painful to you and to those concerned.
“The Guardian, however, appreciates the fact that, in conforming with the Teachings, you have laid the matter before the local Spiritual Assembly. He sincerely hopes that under the guidance of that body, and through your own efforts as well, conditions between you and your husband will gradually improve, and that you will not feel it necessary to ask for divorce after the one year period of separation has been terminated.
"He is fervently entreating Bahá’u’lláh that He may guide you and Mr. in solving this most delicate problem of your life, and that the solution reached may be such as to bring peace and satisfaction to your heart, and thus bring happiness to you, and also protection to the Cause whose interests you have so devotedly served for many years." (From a letter dated January 14, 1936, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Regarding the Bahá’í teachings on divorce. While the latter has been made permissible by Bahá’u’lláh yet He has strongly discouraged its practice, for if not checked and seriously controlled it leads gradually to the disruption of family life and to the disintegration of society." (From a letter dated November 16, 1936, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
"Divorce is a disgraceful and offensive affair and runs counter to the good pleasure of God. The Assembly should circulate the passages revealed by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in this connection among the friends and bring this matter to their attention more than ever before.
“The application of the law of divorce is dependent upon the permission and approval of the Spiritual Assembly. The Spiritual Assembly should make a thorough and independent investigation in these cases. Should there be legitimate causes or should the couple find it impossible to live in unity and harmony and no way can be found to overcome their aversion to each other, then the Assembly may approve divorce." (Translated from a letter dated Fiahmat year 95 B.E. [July 7, 1938] to the National Spiritual Assembly of Persia)
“As regards the action you contemplate in seeking divorce from him. He leaves the final decision in this matter to you and your husband, though of course, from the standpoint of the Cause, he thinks it preferable for you both not to resort to such drastic action, unless it is absolutely unavoidable." (From a letter dated February 24, 1940, writ ten on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Marriage is, in the Aqdas, set forth as a most sacred and binding tie, and the Bahá’ís should realize that divorce is viewed as a last resort, to be avoided at all costs if possible and not to be lightly granted." (From a letter dated October 17, 1944, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Marriage is viewed by Bahá’u’lláh as a very sacred tie which should under no circumstances be severed unless the reasons are very grave. He hopes and will pray that you and your wife, as believers, will reconsider this matter and do your utmost to live together in the service of the Cause you both love so dear|y." (From a letter dated October 17, 1944, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“He was very sorry to hear that you and your husband are still so unhappy together. it is always a source of sorrow in life when married people cannot get on well together, but the Guardian feels that you and your husband, in contemplating divorce, should think of the future of your children and how this major step on your part will influence their lives and happiness?
“if you feel the need of advice and consultation he suggests you consult your local Assembly; your fellow Bahá’ís will surely do all they can to counsel and help you, protect your interests and those of the Cause." (From a letter dated November 16, 1945, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Shoghi Effendi wishes me to add this note in connection with your marriage: he does not feel that any believer, under any circumstances whatsoever, can ever use the Cause or service to it as a reason for abandoning their marriage; divorce, as we know, is very strongly condemned by Bahá’u’lláh, and only grounds of extreme gravity justify it." (From a letter dated April 7, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“As Bahá’u’lláh was so very much against divorce (even though He permits it) and considered marriage a most sacred responsibility, believers should do everything in their power to preserve the marriages they have contracted, and to make of them exemplary unions, governed by the noblest motives.” (From a letter dated October 19, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Bahá’u’lláh has clearly stated the consent of all living
parents is required for a Bahá’í marriage. This applies
whether the parents are Bahá’ís or non-Bahá’ís divorced for
years or not. This great law He has laid down to strengthen
the social fabric, to knit closer the ties of the home, to place
a certain gratitude and respect in the hearts of children for
those who have given them life and sent their souls out on
the eternal journey towards their Creator. We Bahá’ís must
realize that in present-day society the exact opposite pro
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cess is taking place: young people care less and less for their parents‘ wishes, divorce is considered a natural right, and obtained on the flimsiest and most unwarrantable and shabby pretexts. People separated from each other, especially if one of them has had full custody of the children, are only too willing to belittle the importance of the partner in marriage also responsible as a parent for bringing those children into this world. The Bahá’ís must, through rigid adherence to the Bahá’í laws and teachings, combat these corrosive forces which are so rapidly destroying home life and the beauty of family relationships, and tearing down the moral structure of society.” (From a letter dated October 25, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States)
“He wishes me to tell you that he regrets extremely the sorrow that has come into your life, and that he agrees with all you have stated in general on the subject of divorce.
“There is no doubt about it that the believers in America. probably unconsciously influenced by the extremely lax morals prevalent and the flippant attitude towards divorce which seems to be increasingly prevailing, do not take divorce seriously enough and do not seem to grasp the fact that although Bahá’u’lláh has permitted it, He has only permitted it as a last resort and strongly condemns it.
“The presence of children, as a factor in divorce, cannot be ignored, for surely it places an even greater weight of moral responsibility on the man and wife in considering such a step. Divorce under such circumstances no longer just concerns them and their desires and feelings but also concerns the chil_dren’s entire future and their own attitude towards marriage.” (From a letter dated December 19, 1947, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Divorce should be avoided most strictly by the believers,
-and only under rare and urgent circumstances be resorted
to. Modern society is criminally lax as to the sacred nature of marriage, and the believers must combat this trend assiduously." (From a letter dated January 5, 1948, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“He will pray for your husband and son and your daughter—in—law, that, through drawing near to Bahá’u’lláh, they may be united and uplifted into a happier and more harmonious atmosphere. for the Cause can heal friction if people will let it and make the effort themselves as well.” (From a letter dated June 11, 1948, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“While he wishes me to assure you that he will pray for the solution of your domestic troubles, he would urge you to endeavour, by every means in your power, to compose your differences, and not to allow them to reach such proportions as to lead to your complete and final separation from your husband.
“For while, according to the Bahá’í law, divorce is permissible, yet it is highly discouraged, and should be resorted to only when every effort to prevent it has proved to be in vain and ineffective.
“It is for you, and for Mr. as well, to ponder carefully over the spiritual implications which any act of divorce on either part would involve, and strengthened by the power of faith and confident in the blessings which strict adherence to the principles and laws of Bahá’u’lláh is bound to confer upon every one of His faithful followers, to make a fresh resolve to solve your common difficulties and to restore the
harmony, peace and happiness of your family life.” (From a letter dated September 11, 1948, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“He was very sorry to hear that you are contemplating separation from your husband. As you no doubt know, Bahá’u’lláh considers the marriage bond very sacred; and only under very exceptional and unbearable circumstances is divorce advisable for Bahá’ís.
“The Guardian does not tell you that you must not divorce your husband; but he does urge you to consider prayerfully, not only because you are a believer and anxious to obey the laws of God, but also for the sake of the happiness of your children, whether it is not possible for you to rise above the limitations you have felt in your marriage hitherto, and make a go of it together.
“We often feel that our happiness lies in a certain direction; and yet, if we have to pay too heavy a price for it in the end we may discover that we have not really purchased either freedom or happiness, butgjust some new situation of frustration and disillusion." (From a letter dated April 5, 1951, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“As regards the problem of your marriage, you are free to refer this to the National Spiritual Assembly. As both you and your wife know, however, Bahá’u’lláh was not in favor of divorce, and the friends should make every effort to avoid bringing it about. if it is absolutely impossible, they are then free to divorce, but they should bear in mind the will of God in such matters.” (From a letter dated March 13, 1953, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“He has been very sorry to hear that your marriage seems to have failed utterly. I need not tell you as a Bahá’í that every effort should be made by any Bahá’í to salvage their marriage for the sake of God, rather than for their own sake. In the case of pioneers, it is even more important, because they are before the public eye. However, in such matters it is neither befitting nor right that the Guardian should bring pressure on individuals. He can only appeal to you and to try again; but if you cannot rise to_ this test, that is naturally a personal matter." (From a letter dated January 13, 1956, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)
“Wherever there is a Bahá’í family, those concerned should by all means do all they can to preserve it, because divorce is strongly condemend in the Teachings, whereas harmony, unity and love are held up as the highest ideals in human relationships. This must always apply to the Bahá’ís, whether they are serving in the pioneering field or not.” (From a letter dated November 9, 1956, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of Central America)
Business Advice By National Assembly
The National Spiritual Assembly has become concerned in recent Yitars about the entangled disputes in which Bahá’ís become involved when their business ventures go awry. Therefore, it offers the friends the following counsel:
The cases that have been brought to the National
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Assembly's attention invariably involve Bahá’ís who had the best of intentions when they initially made plans to start a business or made a business deal of some sort with another Bahá’í or group of Bahá’ís.
FEELING THAT they could trust their Bahá’í partners, many believers have neglected to seek the advice of an attorney and have entered the venture on the basis of oral agreements or inadequately written statements that later were misunderstood or misinterpreted. Consequently, when differences arose, there was no real way to resolve the problem, since the parties often could not agree on what the original terms of the venture were.
The National Spiritual Assembly cannot stress strongly enough the importance of establishing all business dealings on a firm legal foundation, whether or not they involve Bahá’í's. This applies equally to loan transactions.
The National Assembly also has noted that the friends, in their eagerness to gain large and quick returns on their investments, sometimes enter into speculative business ventures without legal counsel. When these ventures fail, as they often do, the friends feel cheated. The believers must understand that speculation entails risks, and should be prepared to take the risks along with the rewards.
Punctuality: A Facet
As Bahá’ís we must constantly try to cultivate ways to reflect distinctive Bahá’í characteristics in our daily life. One of these characteristics is trustworthiness, pronounced by Bahá’u’lláh as “the most great ornament to the people of Bahá, and the mantle of honor to all in the kingdom of emanation."
Assemblies Are Asked To Check May Mailing
In a letter dated May 18, 1979, the National Spiritual Assembly sent two new compilations, “Consultation: A Compilation,” and “The Local Spiritual Assemblies,” to all Local Spiritual Assemblies.
Some Assemblies, it seems, did not receive this mailing. If your Assembly was one who did not, please let the National Spiritual Assembly know and the compilations will be sent to you.
Please check your records to be certain you have not overlooked them; we have only a limited supply. The offer is limited to one compilation per Assembly, and may be duplicated. The compilations will be available through the Bahá’í Publishing Trust in the months ahead.
Another factor to be considered is Bahá’í ethical standards. Shoghi Effendi’s discussion of rectitude of conduct in The Advent of Divine Justice, pp. 18-24, is recommended for all individuals who are considering a business venture.
TAKING THE PRECAUTION of seeking competent legal advice, having a realistic understanding of the risks involved, and trying to keep one’s dealings in line with Bahá’í ethical standards not only saves everyone from considerable grief later on, but prevents either the Local Spiritual Assembly or the National Spiritual Assembly from having to spend its energies trying to resolve disputes that could have been avoided in the first place. It should also be understood that the institutions of the Faith are limited in their ability to resolve financial disputes, since final authority in the U.S. for resolving such disputes rests with the civil courts.
The extension of loans by Assemblies and individuals can also cause problems. Individuals who are habitually unemployed or who are in the habit of borrowing from others often take advantage of the generosity of Bahá’ís, who lend them money or give them hospitality, sometimes
. at considerable sacrifice. The National Spiritual Assembly
advises the friends to exercise wisdom in these matters.
of Trustworthiness
“O people of Bahá," He further exclaims. “Trustworthiness is the best garment for your temples and the most resplendent crown for your heads. Adhere thereto by the command of the omnipotent commander!"
A FACET OF trustworthiness is punctuality. Besides contributing to efficiency and order, being punctual at gatherings, meetings, and appointments demonstrates consideration for others. It is also a tangible indication that one is a reliable person.
Being late is discourteous. This lateness delays the beginning of meetings and thus wastes the time of those who are prompt. Usually, a meeting that begins late ends late. This extension of a meeting creates an unfair inconvenience for others.
The National Spiritual Assembly would like to see Local Spiritual Assemblies, District Teaching Committees and individuals who are responsible for convening Bahá’í meetings make a special effort to start promptly, even though people may be late in arriving. When the friends realize that meetings will begin on time, with or without them, they will make an effort to adjust their schedules in order to be punctual.
Guidelines Set for Fund-Raising Events
Owing to the crisis in the International Fund created by the situation in Iran, many individuals and communities have planned special fund-raising events.
The Office of the Treasurer offers the following general guidelines to be considered when planning such an event. Quotations from the Guardian and Universal House of Justice on this subject can be found on page 147 of
Guidelines for Local Spiritual Assemblies. In brief, the following principles should be adhered to:
- The atmosphere surrounding the event should be dignified and joyous. No pressure can be exerted on individuals to contribute.
0 NON-BAHA’lS may not participate financially in any event held especially to raise money for the Bahá’í Fund.
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0 Items offered for sale must be owned by a Bahá’í.
0 If the non-Bahá’í public is invited to an event such as a garage sale, bake sale, etc., it can no longer be considered a Bahá’í fund-raising event and must not be advertised as such. It must be an enterprise of an individual or individuals, not of the Local Assembly or Group. Proceeds from the sale then revert to the original owner, who may make a contribution to the Bahá’í Fund if he or she so desires.
0 A Local Spiritual Assembly or Bahá’í Group may initiate or support fund-raising activities for organizations whose aims and purposes are similar in nature to those of the Faith. These could include programs of the United Nations (such as UNESCO or UNICEF), aid to refugees, care for orphans, support for the aged or poverty-stricken, etc.
When undertaking such efforts, however, the Assembly or Group must carefully weigh the effect on the local teaching work. On the one hand, such an activity could heighten public awareness of the Faith and would be worthwhile from a public relations standpoint. On the other hand, it
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might consume so much time and energy that teaching projects could suffer.
THE ASSEMBLY’S first obligation is to see that the teaching work is progressing and that the needs of the Bahá’í Fund are being met, mindful of the fact that “our contributions to the Faith are the surest way of lifting once and for all time the burden of hunger and misery from mankind
It should be remembered that the most important principle is unity. Maintaining harmony in the community always takes precedence over raising money for the Fund.
Therefore, the Local Spiritual Assembly or Bahá’í Group must be certain that the believers understand the propriety and the purpose of such events.
No matter how carefully organized, no plan can succeed without the understanding and support of the friends.
Questions or inquiries regarding fund-raising events may be directed to your nearest National Treasurer's Representative or to the Office of the Treasurer.
Questions and Answers on HuqL'iqu’l|éh
Question: What is the responsibility of a Local Spiritual Assembly to educate Persian believers in its jurisdiction about Ḥuqúqu’lláh?
Answer: Since this law is not binding on Western believers at this time and its significance is little understood by Americans, an Assembly should not try to carry out an educational program on the subject. All an Assembly can do at this time is remind those Persians residing in its jurisdiction of their spiritual obligation to pay Ḥuqúqu’lláh. A pamphlet printed in Persian fully describing the responsibilities and bounties associated with this Law of God is available from the Office of the Treasurer.
Question: Does the Law of Ḥuqúqu’lláh apply to Persians who are permanent residents of this country?
Answer: All Persian Bahá’ís, regardless of residency status, are bound by this law of the Aqdas.
Question: What is the relationship between regular con tributions to the Local and National Funds and Huququ’lláh?
Answer: The Universal House of Justice has made it clear that regular contributions to the Fund cannot be counted as Ḥuqúqu’lláh. These are separate institutions of the Faith, and contributions to one have no relation to the other. The Supreme Body has also made it clear that payment of Ḥuqúqu’lláh takes precedence over regular contributions to the Fund. The Persian believers, however, should come to regard it as their privilege to serve the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh by contributing to both.
Question: How do Persians in this country fulfill their obligation to Ḥuqúqu’lláh?
Answer: Further information on Ḥuqúqu’lláh may be obtained by writing to Kazem Kazemzadeh, 15276 De Pauw St., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.
Non-Bahá’í Attendance at the Feasts
Although it is generally understood that only members of the Bahá’í community and visiting Bahá’ís from other localities may attend Nineteen Day Feasts, the question is frequently asked whether persons close to the Faith and non-Bahá’í members of Bahá’í families might not be permitted to attend if they leave the room during the consultation period. it is sometimes argued that this privilege will bring these persons closer to the Faith and will dispel any feeling that there are “secrets” in the Faith. *
BAHA’|S SHOULD realize that the presence of non-Bahá’ís at any portion of the Feast impedes the flow of the spirit that exists between Bahá’u’lláh and His followers and between fellow Bahá’ís throughout the Feast. Furthermore, when visitors are excluded during consultation and are waiting to re-enter the room, the believers, from a sense of courtesy, feel obliged to hurry through the business and cut short the consultation so that their guests may not be kept waiting too long. Thus concentration on the essential aspects of the Feast is dissipated and sociability becomes the dominant factor.
The Universal House of Justice has elaborated upon this
matter in a recent letter to the National Spiritual Assembly in which it calls attention to “the essentially domestic, administrative nature of the Nineteen Day Feast." it further states:
“With regard to the attendance of non-Bahá’í's at a Nineteen Day Feast, you can explain the essentially domestic, administrative nature of the Nineteen Day Feast. During the period of consultation the Bahá’ís should be able to enjoy perfect freedom to express their views on the work of the Cause, unembarrassed by the feeling that all they are saying is being heard by someone who has not accepted Bahá’u’lláh and who might thereby gain a very distorted picture of the Faith. It would also be very embarrassing for any sensitive non-Bahá’í to find himself plunged into the midst of a discussion of the detailed affairs of a Bahá’í community of which he is not a part. The Guardian’s secretary wrote on his behalf on September 21, 1946:
“ ‘AS REGARDS your question concerning Nineteen Day Feasts as to non-Bahá’ís attending, this should by all means be avoided, but if non-believers come to a
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Nineteen Day Feast, they should not be put out, as this
might hurt their feelings.’
"This is why, if a non-Bahá’í does appear at a Nineteen Day Feast he should be made to feel welcome, but a Bahá’í should certainly not invite a non-Bahá’í to attend.
“A non-Bahá’í who asks to be invited to a Feast will usually understand if this matter is explained to him.”
if it seems essential to expose non-Bahá’í relatives or close contacts to the spirit that should prevail at the Nineteen Day Feast, special meetings can be arranged for such purpose, wherein there will be a beautifully arranged period of devotion followed by sociability, with all members of the community in attendance. (Reprinted from the June 1967 U.S. Supplement of Bahá’í News)
Teaching Those of Muslim Background
The turmoil in Iran and its attendant ramifications for the American Bahá’í community make it timely to review once again the directives of the beloved Guardian on the need to exercise caution in teaching people from Muslim countries.
The Universal House of Justice, in a recent letter to the National Spiritual Assembly, wrote: “There should be no relaxation of the principles given by the beloved Guardian to your Assembly cautioning American Bahá’ís to refrain from teaching students and others from countries of the Middle East, particularl those of Persian and Arab nationalities."
EACH BAHA’ HAS an obligation to protect the Cause of God and should be well-informed of this important policy, particularly at a time when Persian non-Bahá’ís may try to use the Faith for their own benefit.
As early as January 1926, Shoghi Effendi wrote the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada:
"Regarding association with Oriental travelers and
. residents in the United States and Canada, I desire to
emphasize afresh the vital necessity for the exercise
lntercommunity Media Plans
A number of questions have been raised about intercommunity media activities.
In large metropolitan areas, a number of communities are covered by media that are located in one community, usually the largest city in that area. Because the media reach into a number of areas of jurisdiction, cooperation and coordination is required in using these media to proclaim the Faith. Problems sometimes arise when a number of Assemblies and committees of various Assemblies are involved.
THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly encourages communities in metropolitan areas to form an inter—community media committee that serves as a coordinating board for the utilization of media that affect a number of communities. Each community should have a representative on the committee who reports back to the Assembly or Group he or she represents.
An inter-community committee, in accordance with the guidelines on inter-community activities published in Guidelines for Local Spiritual Assemblies, should be sponsored by a Local Spiritual Assembly, preferably by the Assembly in the largest city, such as Chicago, New York, or San Francisco, although some inter-community committees function efficiently with a suburban Assembly serving as the coordinating body.
The solution to all problems associated with intercommunity activities depends on following the guidelines established by the National Spiritual Assembly, and on cooperation.
The National Assembly expects that any problems that arise will be satisfactorily resolved by the friends through consultation.
in these days of the greatest vigilance and reserve, prudence and caution, on the part of the American believers in their dealings with them, either in an official or private capacity, whether in business transactions or for purely religious purposes. As the Movement grows in prestige, fame and influence, as the ambitions, malice and ill-will of strangers and enemies correspondingly wax greater, it becomes increasingly important for every individual and Spiritual Assembly to be on their guard lest they fall innocent victims of the evil designs of the malevolent, the selfseeking and the greedy." (Bahá’í Administration, pp. 101-102)
THE GUARDIAN also wrote, as quoted in the compilation Principles of Bahá’í Administration:
“The attitude of the friends towards Orientals should be one of great caution, according to the Master’s own often-repeated and explicit instructions and warnings. Any believer in good standing would not leave his home community without a letter of credentials, and certainly no Persians, claiming to be Bahá’ís, but lacking credentials, should be accepted until the Persian National Spiritual Assembly has clarified their status. They can, naturally, attend public meetings, but should not be permitted to come to the Nineteen Day Feast; the friends may associate with them, but should be very cautious, bearing in mind that many Orientals, who scorned, or were even actively against the Cause while living in the East. now find it convenient to pass as believers or friends of the Faith in a Western country where they are strangers."
While Bahá’ís are enjoined to associate with followers of all religions and people of all lands, they must be on their guard lest unwise actions produce harmful results.
Bahá’ís should bear in mind that in most Muslim countries there exist ample opportunities to learn about the Faith. They should also remember that in many Muslim countries Bahá’ís live under constant pressure and that occasionally outright persecution breaks out, endangering their very lives. It is difficult to realize how deep hatred for the Faith can run, and how our carelessness can imperil individuals and entire communities in certain countries.
American Bahá’ís should not attempt to teach the Faith to persons from Middle Eastern, North African, or other Muslim countries unless such persons are permanent residents of the U.S. A Muslim who happens to be in the U.S. temporarily cannot be enrolled in the Bahá’í community by our National Spiritual Assembly but must be enrolled upon his return home by the appropriate Bahá’í institution in his country.
Muslims who are temporarily in the U.S. should not be invited to any Bahá’í activities, but should they come without invitation, they will, of course, be welcomed in a courteous and friendly manner.
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Laws Concerning Bahá’í Funeral, Burial
The requirements of a Bahá’í burial binding on Western believers are basically threefold. First, the body should be interred within one hour's journey from the place of death. Second, the body should not be embalmed unless required by state law. (Each Assembly should be familiar with state requirements for burial without embalming as there may be special stipulations concerning the treatment of the body, such as a sealed casket or burial within 24 hours.) Third, the body must not be cremated. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated that “The body of man, which has been formed gradually, must similarly be decomposed gradually."
IN RESPONSE to various questions asked by the friends, the beloved Guardian and the Universal House of Justice have clarified certain matters. One may receive a Bahá’í funeral regardless of whether he is a Bahá’í or possesses his administrative rights. The decision as to whether the casket should be open or closed is up to those making the arrangements. (Since the body is not to be embalmed, an open casket could be difficult to arrange.)
Any individual Bahá’í or group of Bahá’ís may conduct the funeral service as we have no clergy. The service may consist of prayers, general readings, and music, if desired.
The tombstone or grave marker may have a nine-pointed star or rosetta. The word “Bahá’í" may be on the marker, either by itself or within the rosetta or star. An appropriate extract from the Writings is also permissible. The marker should not contain the Greatest Name, ringstone symbol, or the burial ring inscription upon it. At this time the requirement to wear the burial ring (now available from the Publishing Trust) is not binding upon the American
believers.
IT SHOULD BE noted that the congregational prayer for the dead (see Prayers and Meditations, pp. 260-61) and the burial ring are meant to be used for those who have attained the age of maturity (15). Children who have yet to reach this age are under a special bounty and compassion (see Some Answered Questions, pp. 278-79).
A Bahá’í can give his or her body to medical science as long as the conditions that all Bahá’ís must observe are met, e.g., treating the body with respect, no cremation, burial within an hour's journey from the place of death, and so on. There are no prohibitions against donating organs for use in transplants. A Bahá’í may be buried in a vault if it is desired.
The Bahá’í's do not seek out their own cemeteries as all people return to the same God. However, Bahá’ís are sometimes excluded from cemeteries of other religions so it becomes necessary for Bahá’ís to purchase land for this purpose.
If a person is single and without family or on'welfare, a Local Spiritual Assembly may find itself in a difficult position, since the person’s assets are frozen and the Assembly has no funds to pay for the funeral and burial.
Assemblies would be well-advised to discuss in advance arrangements with believers and local authorities, where appropriate, making whatever legal arrangements are necessary, so that burial arrangements can be made without complication. Leaving provisions for burial in ones will often proves ineffective, since the will is usually read
' after the funeral.
Applying Bahá’í Laws on Backbiting
One of the most important of all divine Commandments is: “Breathe not the sins of others so long as thou art thyself a sinner. Shouldst thou transgress this command, accursed wouldst thou be, and to this I bear witness." (Hidden Words, 27) Bahá’u’lláh further warns that “backbiting quencheth the light of the heart, and extlnguisheth the life of the soul." (Gleanings, p. 265) In His Will and Testament, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá adds: “According to the direct command of God, we are for Name, Address Confidential
From time to time names, addresses and telephone numbers of individual Bahá’ís are requested from Local Assemblies, District Teaching Committees, or individuals by other Bahá’ís, non-Bahá’ís, and public or private agencies.
The National Spiritual Assembly’s policy is that such information is private and confidential and thus should not be made available without the person's consent. Correspondence and messages may, of course, be forwarded to the person the inquirer wishes to contact.
It is especially important to adhere to this directive in view of the current situation in Iran and the possibility that certain individuals may try to obtain such information for less than honorable purposes.
Addresses and phone numbers of Local Spiritual Assemblies are not considered confidential and may be given out upon request.
bidden to utter slander."
lN AUGUST 1913, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote an American believer as follows: “ ...the worst human quality and the most great sin is backbiting, more especially when it emanates from the tongues of the believers of God. If some means were devised so that the doors of backbiting could be shut eternally and each one of the believers of God unsealed his tongue in praise of the other. then the Teachings of His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh would be spread, the hearts illumined, the spirits glorified and the human world would attain to everlasting felicity.
‘‘I hope that the believers of God will shun completely backbiting, each one praising the other cordially, and believe that backbiting is the cause of the Divine wrath. to such an extent that if a person backbites to the extent of one word, he may become dishonored among all the people, because the most hateful characteristic of man is faultfinding. One must expose the praiseworthy qualities of the souls and not their evil attributes. The friends must overlook their shortcomings and faults and speak only of their virtues and not their defects."
In order to distinguish between legitimate reports to a Bahá’í administrative body that may affect the welfare of a Bahá’í community or an individual member thereof and unwarranted rumors, negative and hearsay gossip, slander and backbiting, intentionally or thoughtlessly circulated. the National Spiritual Assembly offers the following rules of
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action for the guidance of the Bahá’í Assemblies under its jurisdiction:
1. IN NO CASE should the friends speak to their fellow believers in the community of any matter involving personal delinquencies, alleged or actual, of another member of the community, nor permit believers to speak to them of such matters. If a complaint is warranted, it should be brought directly to the Local Assembly for consideration.
2. A Local Assembly should assume jurisdiction only when the acts or words of a member of the Bahá’í community are such as to threaten the integrity of the Cause itself, or to undermine the good name and reputation of a believer.
3. This rule of action also applies for the protection of believers from any discussion of their alleged personal shortcomings in Bahá’í communities other than that in which such believers reside.
4. All such personal matters are strictly barred from discussion at the Nineteen Day Feasts.
5. IN APPLYING THE LAW of Bahá’u’lláh relative to the bringing of complaints and information to a Local Assembly concerning the alleged or actual shortcomings of individual believers, the Assembly should not entertain or listen to any complaint based upon hearsay or rumor, but should, in all cases, insist that the complainant or witness speak only of such matters and present such evidence as he or she knows to be ‘true, of his or her own knowledge. _
6. In the event that a Local Assembly is unable to stop or prevent the continued discussion or circulation of criticisms and unfounded rumors after it has taken jurisdiction of the matter, it is to report such cases immediately to
the National Spiritual Assembly. The National Spiritual Assembly, after careful investigation, will take vigorous action to remove the misunderstandings and misrepresentations that have arisen and render full justice to the individual believer or believers concerned.
If any gossip or backbiting is initiated by an isolated believer, the matter should be brought immediately to the attention of the National Spiritual Assembly.
The new World Order is and must be held sacred and free from this grave defect in human relationships that not only inflicts unmerited injury upon the individual, but, more important, destroys the solidarity of the Bahá’í community. Whispering and backbiting is equivalent to separation among the friends of God, and, in the final analysis, is the will to harm and to alienate the hearts.
THE NATIONAL Spiritual Assembly feels assured and confident that all the friends will make every effort to realize in their individual and community lives a greater love and unity of purpose, and be ever mindful of Bahá’u’lláh’s injunction: “Attribute not to any soul that which thou wouldst not have attributed to thee, and say not that which thou doest not. This is My Command to thee, do thou observe it." (Hidden Words, 29)
“O My servants! Deprive not yourselves of the unfading and resplendent Light that shineth within the Lamp of Divine Glory. Let the flame of the love of God burn brightly within your radiant hearts. Feed it with the oil of Divine guidance, and protect it within the shelter of your constancy. Guard it within the globe of trust and detachment from all else but God, so that the whisperings of the ungodly may not extinguish its light.‘' (Gleanings, pp. 325-26)
The Guardian on Psychic Phenomena
In recent months a number of inquiries have come to the National Spiritual Assembly concerning psychic phenomena and related subjects. The following extracts from letters written on behalf of the Guardian are published for the general guidance and edification of the friends:
“That truth is often imparted through dreams no one who is familiar with history, especially religious history, can doubt. At the same time dreams and visions are always coloured and influenced more or less by the mind of the dreamer and we must beware of attaching too much importance to them. The purer and more free from prejudice and desire our hearts and minds become, the more likely is it that our dreams will convey reliable truth, but if we have strong prejudices, personal likings and aversions, bad feelings or evil motives, these will warp and distort any inspirational impression that comes to us In many cases dreams have been the means of bringing people to the truth or of confirming them in the Faith. We must strive to become pure in heart and ‘free from all save God.’ Then our dreams as well as our waking thoughts will become pure and true. We should test impressions we get through dreams, visions or inspirations, by comparing them with the revealed Word and seeing whether they are in harmony therewith.” (From a letter dated May 16, 1925, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“He is of the opinion that to pay much attention to persons who are imbued with spiritualistic ideas is rather useless, because what they have, though it has a germ of
truth, has much of personal imagination added to it. Moreover, when after much effort they become Bahá’ís, they are reluctant to turn a completely new sheet in their life and begin to conceive Bahá’í ideals in spiritualistic terms. There are thousands of other pure souls who are more ready for the teachings and who would accept it unreservedly. So we had better concentrate our attention upon them. The Cause everywhere has suffered from spiritualists with psychic pretended powers, and it is high time to take a step along that line.” (From a letter dated July 10, 1928, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“With reference to psychic phenomena referred to in your letter; these, in most cases, are an indication of a deep psychological disturbance. The friends should avoid as much as possible giving undue consideration to such matters.” (From a letter dated November 20, 1937, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
‘‘It is often exceedingly difficult, well-nigh impossible to distinguish between true guidance and psychic phenomena. Through the power of concentration, prayer and meditation and the effects produced one can, however, feel the direct spiritual guidance of God. Purity of heart is an indispensable condition.” (From a letter dated January 14, 1938, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“Regarding your question in connection with desire to be informed about ‘table-writing’ and such things:
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Review
Though there is no specific reference in the teachings to this particular thing, Shoghi Effendi feels very strongly that, in view of other statements about avoiding all psychic dabbling and exercise of psychic faculties, this should also be avoided by the Bahá’ís and such messages be
disregarded." (From a letter dated June 24, 1941, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“With regard to your question as to the value of intuition as a source of guidance for the individual: implicit faith in our intuitive powers is unwise, but through daily prayer and sustained effort one can discover, though not always and fully, God’s Will intuitively. Under no circumstances, however, can a person be absolutely certain that he is recognizing God’s Will, through the exercise of his intuition. it often happens that the latter results in completely misrepresenting the truth, and thus becomes a source of error rather than of guidance.” (From a letter dated October 29, 1938, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“First concerning visions: it is very difficult to distinguish between true visions which are true spiritual experiences of the soul and imaginations which have no reality in spiritual truths. True visions, however, can be granted to those who are spiritually pure and receptive, and are not therefore confined to the Prophets alone." (From a letter dated November 26, 1939, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“ ...he feels that the methods you are pursuing in regard to receiving inspired written messages, and your way of approaching your painting are really psychic, and that you should give them up for your own good. Some of Bahá’u’lláh's and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Tablets are so poorly translated that it is almost impossible to grasp the true meaning, and one is misled into thinking that by getting into a practically psychic state the Holy Spirit will guide one. This is not what is meant: the world's greatest writers and painters have not been under psychic influence, but through innate ability, practice and study, have given us their
Decision-Making Procedure Clarified
Question: At a Local Spiritual Assembly meeting, is it required to make a motion before a decision can be made?
Answer: No. There is nothing in the Bahá’í Writings that requires that a motion be made before a decision is arrived at.
The Bahá’í concept of consultation calls for a full, frank and loving discussion of possible solutions after the issue has been properly defined and all the relevant facts have been gathered. Out of the discussion, it is hoped that a consensus will emerge.
Although the making of a motion is not required in Bahá’í consultation, it is frequently found to be a useful mechanism and the friends are free to employ it.
In any case, consultation should be conducted in such a way that all individuals are assured the opportunity to express themselves fully before decisions are made, and no action should be taken that stifles the flow of consultation or forces premature decisions.
masterpieces; this is the normal way for inspiration to reach us, through the channels of our own abilities, and not through control by forces which the Master warned us against, and which we do not understand, and which—as you yourself know—are neither consistent nor reliable." (From a letter dated February 24, 1947, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“What ‘Abdu’l-Bahá always pointed out in this matter is that these psychic powers were not to be used in this world, and that, indeed, it was dangerous to cultivate them here. They should be left dormant, and not exploited, even when we do so with the sincere belief that we are helping others. We do not understand their nature and have no way of being sure of what is true and what is false in such matters.
‘‘If children are inclined to be psychic they should not be blamed for it too harshly; they should not be encouraged to strengthen their powers in this direction." (From a letter dated March 4, 1946, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“As regards your question about the members who still cling to psychic practices: he hopes that by now all those who became active in the new center you established have given up attending seances and psychical practices. If they have not, they should do so." (From a letter dated March 15, 1946, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
“What comes under the heading of psychic practices ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has warned us against; but any form of autosuggestion or hypnotism which is used by medical science and by properly qualified physicians we are free to take advantage of, if we feel that the doctor using such practices is qualified and will not abuse his rights.” (From a letter dated February 15, 1957, written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer)
