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Vol. III March 2, 1913 No. 19
Portrait: Abdul-Baha Abbas | 2 |
With Abdul-Baha in London—extracts from Letters Written by Mirza Ahma Sohrab | 3 |
Cablegram from Abdul-Baha | 8 |
On Teaching | 8 |
In Remembrance | 9 |
Persian Section | 11-16 |
[Page 2]
--PHOTO--
ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS
Photograph taken at Chicago during his sojourn in America by Mr. A. C. Killius of Spokane
"We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations; that all nations shall become one in faith and all men as brothers; that the bonds of affection and unity between the sons of men shall be strengthened; that diversity of religion shall cease and differences of race be annulled. So it shall be; these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the 'Most Great Peace' shall come."—BAHA'O'LLAH.
Vol. III Chicago (March 2, 1913) Ola No. 19
EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS WRITTEN BY MIRZA AHMAD SOHRAB
December 16, 1912.AT nine o'clock this morning we left the hotel in Liverpool, walking to the Lime street station, where we were to take the train for London, Monsieur Dreyfus-Barney going before to secure tickets. Arriving at the station we took our compartment, M. Dreyfus-Barney, Ahmad Yazdi, Mrs. Fraser and Miss Herrick traveling with Abdul-Baha. On the way he spoke to Mrs. Fraser and Miss Herrick and said, "I am most pleased with you. You are the real servants of the Covenant." To Mrs. Fraser he said: "You have written excellent articles in the papers in regard to the Cause, I will never forget these services of yours. You must become like a burning torch so that you may be able to melt mountains of snow. Europe is filled with mountains which are snowcapped all the year around. May you attain to such a degree of heat that you may melt the snow. Europe is submerged in materialism. People are not thinking of God. All their attention is turned toward matter and nature. Like unto the cows they graze in the meadows which are overgrown with grass. They can see nothing beyond their noses. America is much better. People in that country are investigating the Reality. They are more susceptible to spiritual life."
At one-forty p. m. the train reached Euston station, London. About fifty Bahais were there to welcome Abdul-Baha. Lady Blomfield with her two daughters and automobile were at the station. The Master went to 97 Cadogan Gardens without an interpreter. Later on they told us that he spoke English to them all the time. Lady Blomfield is a very remarkable woman, a most sincere Bahai, an active worker, and an enthusiastic speaker; really a wonderful woman.
Abdul-Baha rested part of the afternoon. After a walk in the garden nearby, the newspaper men and women came. The subjects covered a wide range; a review of his trip in America, a message to the people of London, a synopsis of the Teachings of BAHA'O'LLAH and many minor questions. Then he attended to his mail, acknowledging telegram from Stuttgart expressing happiness at his safe arrival; invitations from Edinburgh, etc. The Master is going to visit that country.
At eight o'clock we had dinner, at which several people were present, among whom was a minister of a church in Switzerland who had heard the Message. Abdul-Baha spoke with him in detail, giving him an account of an imposing religious procession in Denver and its contrast with the simple life of Christ. It was very graphic, very impressive and showed distinctly how far Christianity has lost sight of its original foundation.
This morning Abdul-Baha spoke about America and the probability of his return to that country. He said: "God willing! If I go to America another time I will go differently; but it is very difficult. This first trip was made with great exertion." As I was reading one of his addresses delivered in America, he said it would be well if all his addresses in that country could be printed in one or two volumes. At present, he declared, they are all scattered and not collected. He called attention to how quickly the Paris and London addresses delivered last year were printed; and this was done through one woman, Lady Blomfield. Some one mentioned the name of a prominent wealthy woman and he said: "One of these poor, sincere and honest women is more beloved by me than a thousand millionaires; just now this Lady Blomfield is dearer to me than all the queens of the world.”
In Belfast, Ireland, lives a fine Bahai, a splendid believer. She traveled all day and night to see the Master. He welcomed her{{page|4} most cordially and said: "You must become the cause of the illumination of Ireland. In Persia a woman came to the city of Ardestan from one of the surrounding villages. She was made radiant and became a Bahai. She returned to her home. In one year she was enabled to ignite forty lamps, but now you must ignite four thousand lamps in one year. Praise God, that you enjoy freedom in this country. There was no freedom in Persia. They used to kill the Bahais. If a Bahai desired to teach another, he had to do it with the utmost precaution." This lady said that in speaking about the Revelation to the people, many are afraid of a new religion, saying, "Our old religion was good enough for our ancestors and it is good enough for us." The Master said: "They are like unto those souls who say: 'We don’t like fresh flowers but we are satisfied with withered and decayed flowers.' Decayed flowers do not have sweet fragrance; their odor is not good; they have no freshness and charm. The fresher the flower the sweeter it is and the more charming. If old and decayed flowers were good then the Adamic flower would have been sufficient. Every new year needs a new flower, new fruits are necessary, fresh and gentle breezes are needed. Every new day requires new food, you cannot partake of the decayed food of yesterday."
Speaking to Miss Jack, Abdul-Baha said: "Those souls who consider themselves as imperfect, they are the people of the Kingdom. Those persons who prefer themselves above others are egotists and worshippers of self; they are deprived of the graces of the Lord of mankind."
An Englishman, who is an Arabic professor in London, came with his wife to see Abdul-Baha, who spoke to him in Arabic about America: "The American people investigate everything. Their minds are open, their ears are listening. They comprehend the Teachings of BAHA'O'LLAH. They are thirsty for this salubrious water. They are a mighty nation, a noble people. They love the Reality. They are not limited. They have a vast country and enjoy all the material blessings. God has perfected His bounties for them. They listen to every discussion with dignity, urbanity, and politeness. If it is in accord with reason they will accept it, if they do not understand they ask questions. But the Egyptian people are very prejudiced, they are very dogmatic." After talking with this Arabic scholar on many other interesting topics he came out to the reception room where people were gathered and gave a wonderful address. It was on the conformity of all the problems of life with science and reason. It was most interesting.
In the afternoon a reception was held at Caxton Hall. There was a large gathering of people. Abdul-Baha spoke on various subjects paying a great tribute to the Americans and emphasizing the love and unity which exists between the two countries. Then the chairman of the meeting made some appropriate remarks and refreshments were served. The Master walked back to his apartment. No sooner had he arrived than people began to come.
When they left the apartment Abdul-Baha told us one of the most thrilling incidents in the life of BAHA'O'LLAH; how His property was pillaged; how with eleven others He was put in prison and later on brought before the clergy; how they bastinadoed BAHA'O'LLAH; how He was threatened with death by the populace and how at last He was saved from the claws of these wolves. It was most interesting to hear him speak about these incidents in the life of BAHA'O'LLAH of which we know nothing.
This morning Madame Dreyfus-Barney arrived from Paris, and the question of his trip to that city was discussed. She looked well and happy. Then Abdul-Baha delivered an address on the spiritual worlds. The address was very inspiring and eloquent. It conferred spiritual uplift and exalted our aspirations above this mundane life. He spoke with Divine authority; his words were born of the spirit; his utterances created conviction; his very presence was a heavenly proof.
Professor Browne, who has written so much on the Bahai Movement, was present at the meeting and afterward he was called to the Master's room. "The last time I met you," he said, "was twenty-two years ago in Acca under different environment, but now I have the pleasure of seeing you in London." Then discussion commenced in Persian, for Professor Browne speaks Persian fluently. Many subjects were discussed: about Persia, history of the Movement, education of woman, inventions, etc.
Then Abdul-Baha went for a walk. After
walking a few blocks he called a taxi and
we—the Persian friends—drove through the
famous Hyde Park and Regent Park. It was
a rainy day and the streets were not very clean.[Page 5]
Then the Master spoke about the cleanliness
of Broadway, New York, and its wonderful
illumination by night. He told them about
the Ben Hur horses, the advertisement of
Spring Water, the advertisement of pepsin, the
advertisement of automobiles, and many
others which are lighted at night; he
told about the electric office in Denver which
is a tall and magnificent building, how at
night the whole structure is lighted from top
to bottom. Our Persian friends in the taxi
enjoyed the recital very much. (Perhaps if I
told them of the wonders of the new world
they would think me out of my wits.)
After dinner a minister from one of the suburbs of the great Metropolis called. Abdul-Baha praised his lack of prejudice and his fairmindedness, saying that many of the ministers of today teach men prejudices and blind dogmas. Then he told him the story of the Jewish Rabbi in Tiberias who was giving to the Jews such lessons that made them haughty and filled with pride and prejudices.
In the afternoon the Counsellor of the Persian Embassy called. Again Abdul-Baha spoke about the greatness of America, its wonderful civilization and the Balkan war was touched upon.
Then the president of the Esperantists of England called, bringing with him the first translation of the New Testament in Esperanto, which he offered to Abdul-Baha. The Master spoke a great deal of the necessity of an international language, that the nations must organize an International Congress of Language, ratify it and then let it be studied in all the schools. He said: "All through America I have encouraged the Bahais to study Esperanto and to the extent of my ability I will strive in its spread and promotion."
Later Haji Ameen, who is an old Bahai of the type of Said Assadullah, arrived with three young Persian Bahais from Paris. They had been staying in Paris for the past two weeks awaiting the arrival of Abdul-Baha. They came from Persia. When Abdul-Baha received them, they threw themselves at his feet and wept. It was a touching scene. He took them up, kissed their cheeks and showed them much love. Haji Ameen is a wonderful Bahai, the Master loves him very much and he is like a kind grandfather to all the friends in Persia. Whenever the name of Haji Ameen is mentioned, those who have seen him before are made happy.
It was most interesting to see dear Haji Ameen this morning come to Abdul-Baha with the other Persians in the most reverential and happy manner to ask of the one they recognize as the Centre of the Covenant what they should do and what course of action they should follow as long as they have the privilege of being with him. An interesting incident of the Cause was unfolded when Haji Ameen opened his handkerchief, in which he had petitions from many believers in the Orient. What caught my eyes at first glance were two small loaves of bread and an apple which were sent from a Bahai from far off Russia. This was all this poor man could send to the Beloved with his devotion and love. Abdul-Baha looked at this love offering with such tenderness, with such joy and kindness in his eyes, that I shall never forget it. He ate a piece of the stale bread and gave the rest to Said Assadullah for him to serve the rest at the table. Haji Ameen then told of the general news from Persia, how the friends are united and happy, serving the Cause faithfully, receiving the news of Abdul-Baha's trip in America and holding divine feasts of peace and goodfellowship.
Then the long line of interviews commenced. One was an ardent suffragist, a militant one. Abdul-Baha advised her that the women who are working for the interest of the enfranchisement of women should not commit unseemly acts, nor resort to violent measures, such as window smashing, police beating, train wrecking, letter-box destroying, etc.; nay, rather they should demand their rights with the power of intelligence, with scientific accomplishments, with artistic attainments. Unseemly deeds would rather retard the realization of their cherished hope. In this age a weak person resorts to frightful measures, but an intelligent person uses the superior power of intelligence and wisdom.
We are now acclimated to London weather.
It has been very nice so far. About 8:30 this
morning Abdul-Baha came in the reception
room. He had tea, and later on Haji Ameen
and the other Persians arrived. By and by
a few people gathered. Someone spoke about
divorce, whether it is permissible in the Bahai
Movement. Abdul-Baha said yes, but under
certain restrictions. All means of reconciliation
must be tried and if there is absolute incompatibility
of temper, then one year's separation[Page 6]
is advised, perchance the old union
might be established. However, if in the
meantime they meet each other and no reconciliation
is realized, then they start the year
again.
Many people who called were mourning for the death of their husbands, daughters or mothers, and when at eleven o'clock Abdul-Baha entered the crowded drawing room he spoke on the narrowness of this world, its trials, its vicissitudes, its ordeals and how a soul is really freed when it breaks this physical cage and ascends to the world of the Kingdom, when it wings its way from this dark world into the realm of radiance. Therefore, we must not feel unhappy over the fate of those who have departed from this life.
Mrs. Dower, formerly Miss Stevens, authoress of "The Mountain of God," was among the callers. She came from Southampton to meet Abdul-Baha. Three years ago she stayed three or four months in Acca and Haifa and gathered material for her book. The Master called her in and talked a great deal with her. His room gradually became crowded by eager listeners. He spoke about the "Promised One" and how all the nations and religions have circumscribed limits for His coming, and how when He came many rejected Him. She is writing a book, a novel, about the Second Coming of Christ.
This afternoon, Mr. Lorge, a prominent English educator, called. The discussion was upon America, and Abdul-Baha gave the utmost praise to that country for its freedom, its civilization, its spiritual susceptibilities, its readiness of advancing toward the Kingdom of God, its quenchless thirst for knowledge, its progressive ideals, its future extraordinary illumination. I have never heard Abdul-Baha so enthusiastic about the wonderful possibilities of America. "Europe," he said, "is steeped in a sea of materialism. People are either agnostics or full of religious superstitions. In America it is different, people are more spiritual, they seek the knowledge of God, they hail the truth no matter from what quarter it comes. If they learn that there is a house in China architecture of which is a marvel, they like to know all about it. They analyze everything, they dissect everything. In brief, they are a nation of independent investigators." Then the question of spiritual communication was asked. He answered: "Yes, it is possible. Often people speak together without the means of tongue. There are two means of intercourse: one the outward tongue, the other the ideal tongue. When the spirit is in an abstract mood, when the heart is in a subjective state, then the ideal tongue can speak, but as long as the spirit is preoccupied and the heart is objective in its activity it is impossible to attain to that station. Consider: Is there not an ideal union between the loved one and the beloved? Often with a glance of the eye or a handshake a whole world of thought is conveyed without uttering a word. It is possible to attain to such a state if we are set aglow with the Fire of the Love of God, if we are attracted, if we are as a burning torch, if we overlook material phenomena and objects." In brief, Abdul-Baha spoke a great deal along these lines, uttering many significant statements.
Then the Persian Ambassador came. Abdul-Baha received him very graciously and kindly. He praised the republican form of government in America, its federal system, its liberal institutions, its educational system, and its vast resources. He paid a great tribute to Washington, D. C., and told about the parks, the avenues shaded by trees and the homes built amid beautiful surroundings. In Chicago and New York there are many large parks. Then he spoke about the situation in Persia, in Turkey, about the condition of the Persian students in Europe, etc.
In the evening we drove to Westminster Palace Hotel, where a great meeting* was held. Many writers, thinkers, literary men and distinguished personages were in the audience. The audience was set aglow. All the faces were shining, and all the people were responsive. Indeed to have such a well attended meeting in London at this time of the year is nothing short of a miracle.
In these days the Sun of Reality is shining upon these regions; many souls are being quickened and are alive to the importance of the Cause. Last night Abdul-Baha remarked that many people may think that a Persian has come, giving lectures and that is the end of it. No! In future every word uttered in the far cities of America will be collected and preserved. This is through the Bounty and Favors of the Blessed Perfection.
As a result of last night’s meeting many
*See No. 17 issue STAR OF THE WEST for
address of Abdul-Baha delivered at this
meeting.—The Editors.[Page 7]
came this morning to see Abdul-Baha, among
them being a woman who had come forty miles
to hear him last night and this morning she
brought a book for the Master to sign. She
told of a young man who is an invalid and
dumb, but he is so eager about the Cause that
he would like to have the photograph of
Abdul-Baha with his autograph. Although
he is dumb and his hands are completely
paralyzed, owing to an automobile accident,
yet he holds the pens in his mouth and
writes very well. He reads a great deal
and writes interesting articles for the magazines
and papers. Abdul-Baha sent him a
very beautiful message, that although he is
speechless yet he has the language of the
heart and speaks with the tongue of the intellect.
He hopes that he will acquire the
language of the Kingdom which is not in
need of any outward means to convey the
thought.
To another inquirer Abdul-Baha spoke about the Holy Land, saying, "Syria is the abode of the Prophets. Jerusalem is located there, the traces of David and Solomon can be witnessed there, the birthplace of Christ is there. In Palestine the spirit of man is dilated, because all the Prophets have come from there; the Divine Call has been raised in that country, and the Holy Books have been revealed there." Then he spoke about America: "American people have great capabilities. In England also one witnesses the signs of awakening. In reality American and the English people are one. The governments and the nations of both countries are noble and democratic."
Many other men and women had interviews, each one of them with his or her peculiar problems. It was nearly twelve when he came into the crowded reception room and spoke about the various kinds of love: family love, racial love, patriotic love and human love, showing that each of these loves is not sufficient except the love which is spiritual and is born of the Breath of the Holy Spirit.
At 3:30 p. m. the Beloved, with Mrs. Cropper, Sayad Assadollah and myself, left in Mrs. Cropper’s automobile for the Church where "Eager Heart"* is being presented. There were more than 1,200 persons present. The play on the whole was very effective, Miss Mary Blomfield, who took the part of Eager Heart, interpreted the character with a delicacy and artistic appreciation that was wonderful. There were such longing, such unutterable desire in every movement and word for the King. When Mary and Joseph came in with the child in her arms, Abdul-Baha was so deeply touched that he wept. The story is so touching, so sincere, so holy and so above the sordid elements of life. The Master sat through the whole performance and was keenly interested in every act and move. When the play was finished he was invited behind the stage and congratulated the players and musicians for their delightful work. He gave them a long address about the prophecies of the old Testament in regard to the Coming of the Messiah and how the Jews took those prophecies literally and what were their real significance. Toward the end the actors were introduced to him and when he reached the angels he recommended them all to be angels as long as they live.
After supper the Master told us the wonderful story of Mary Magdalene, who went to Rome, presented herself in person before the Emperor and delivered a message unto him from the Christians. It was a very aromatic story. The Master admires so much the character of Mary Magdalene.
Love to all.
*Christmas play written by Miss Alice Buckton.
OUR PERSIAN SECTION contains: (1) Address of Abdul-Baha, "The Appearance of the Holy Manifestations," delivered at the home of Mrs. Parsons, July 31, 1912; (2) poem by Nayeb Riza Kuli Ibn Wakil Gamboani; (3) letters from Paris by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab; (4) a word of thanks from the "STAR OF THE WEST" to subscribers; (5) poem in praise of Abdul-Baha.
The Bahais may be interested in knowing
that a profile portrait of Abdul-Baha is the
subject of the seventh medallion issued to
subscribers of the "Circle of Friends of the
Medallion." It is the first yet issued for a
living man. The Circle issues these fine little
bronze works of art in a container booklet,
the medal being let into a thick leaf. In that
way members keep the series of bronzes in
their libraries. The address of the Circle is
care of Arts Club, 14 Gramercy Park, Manhattan,
New York, N. Y.[Page 8]
PUBLISHED NINETEEN TIMES A YEAR
By the BAHAI NEWS SERVICE, 515 South Dearborn Street, Chicago, Ill., U. S. A.
Entered as second-class matter April 9, 1911, at the post office at Chicago, Illinois, under the Act of March 3, 1879.
ALBERT R. WINDUST—EDITORS—GERTRUDE BUIKEMA
Associate Editor—DR. ZIA M. BAGDADI, Chicago
TERMS: $1.00 per year; 10 cents per copy.
Note—Until further notice, distribution in the Orient is through Agents.
Make Money Orders payable to BAHAI NEWS SERVICE. P. O. Box 283, Chicago, Ill., U. S. A.
To personal checks please add sufficient to cover the bank exchange.
Address all communications to BAHAI NEWS SERVICE, P. O. Box 283, Chicago, Ill., U.S.A.
O thou Star of the West!
Be thou happy! Be thou happy! Shouldst thou continue to remain firm and eternal, ere long, thou shalt become the Star of the East and shalt spread in every country and clime. Thou art the first paper of the Bahais which is organized in the country of America. Although for the present thy subscribers are limited, thy form is small and thy voice weak, yet shouldst thou stand unshakable, become the object of the attention of the friends and the center of the generosity of the leaders of the faith who are firm in the Covenant, in the future thy subscribers will become hosts after hosts like unto the waves of the sea; thy volume will increase, thy arena will become vast and spacious and thy voice and fame will be raised and become world-wide—and at last thou shalt become the first paper of the world of humanity. Yet all these depend upon firmness, firmness, firmness!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol. III Chicago (March 2, 1913) Ola No. 19
COPY OF CABLEGRAM:
From Abdul-Baha addressed to "Parsons-Remey, Washington, D. C.," dated at Paris, February 14, 1913: "I am Servant of BAHA. His Holiness, BAHA’O’LLAH, is unique and peerless. All must turn to BAHA'O'LLAH. This is the Religion of Abdul-Baha. Firmness in Covenant means love and obedience to the Command of Abdul-Baha. Announce this."
SURELY it will require great wisdom to bring this Truth before the world; but we are assured constantly that to him who endeavors to teach for the sake of God only—wisdom will be given in sufficient measure by the Holy Spirit.
The teacher should teach as offering a gift to a king, humbly and submissively, not with force of insistence, imperiously—that is strenuously—but with gentleness and sweetness: submitting the argument and truth to the heart and intellect of the hearer as the servant of God, and therefore His servant—taking care at all times to adapt the offered food to the condition and station of the listener, giving milk for babes and meat for those grown stronger.
This food is to be offered for the sake of God, only, not for the hearer's sake, not for the benefit of yourself: but simply because God wishes His Manifestation to become known and to become loved by those who come to know Him.
If one teaches one whom he loves because of his love for him—then he will not teach one whom he loves not; and that is not of God. If one teaches in order to derive the promised benefit to himself, this too is not from God. If he teaches because of God's Will that God may be known—and for that reason only, he will receive knowledge and wisdom, and his words will have effect—being made powerful by the Holy Spirit, and will take root in the souls of those who are in the right condition to receive them. In such a case the benefit to the teacher in growth is as ninety per cent. compared to the ten per cent. of gain to the hearer, because he becomes like a tree bearing fruit through the power of God.
We are urgently instructed that the only real way to attain growth in the knowledge of the Truth of God, is not by hearing, but by doing; by being alive with the fire of the love of God and imparting as best we can to others the Tidings of the coming of the Kingdom. This is the day of teaching. We are all commanded to teach, but only in the way and for the purpose above named.
It is plain that this means entire self-abnegation, cutting the self from the world, abandoning all else save God and His Will, and in all humbleness doing His service for His sake only.
AS a faithful worker in the Cause of El-ABHA, Mr. Charles E. Sprague—who departed this life on the ninth of November last, at Chicago—was well known by the Bahais during the early days of the Movement throughout America.
For many years, while possessed of the facilities, he was indefatigable in making copies of translated Tablets and other Utterances, and in sending them broadcast to those who were seeking the light. While this openhanded and generous helpfulness was one of the prominent characteristics of our departed brother, yet this quality was even surpassed in him by his firm faith in Abdul-Baha, the Center of the Covenant.
It is pleasing to record that for some time before his death—which came after a six months' decline resulting from strokes of paralysis—Brother Sprague dwelt in the exalted atmosphere of humility and resignation, and his spirit became more and more clear and triumphant as the end drew nigh.
The body was taken to the home of his brother and mother in Sandy Creek, N. Y., and there was laid at rest in Woodlawn cemetery.
Those who have been in the Cause for a number of years will remember how the copies of Tablets from both BAHA'O'LLAH and Abdul-Baha, which Mr. Charles E. Sprague sent broadcast over this country during the early days of the Cause in America, were appreciated. From the moment of his entering the Cause, his main thought was "service," and the spread of the Glad-tidings to all. It was largely through his efforts that the first edition of the small book of prayers revealed by BAHA'O'LLAH and Abdul-Baha was published. This is only a very meager mention of his service.
In the taking away of Mr. Chase and Mr.
--PHOTO-- Charles Everett Sprague
Sprague the visible world has lost two sincere souls who served whole-heartedly in whatever field they were placed. The loving thoughts that go with both are many, and the Cause which both loved better than life itself will, we believe, receive a new impetus through their liberated and more universal endeavors.
THE unexpected news of the death of Thornton Chase caused sorrow to our small group of students here. Although few of our number had met Mr. Chase, yet those who associated with him during his short stay in Acca, in the presence of Abdul-Baha, never forget his sweet and spiritual countenance. In his face were the signs of a grand purpose backed with a great steadfastness. In conversation with his Oriental brothers, he opened his heart so that everyone could feel the outpouring of the spirit latent therein. His devotion to the Center of the Covenant was singular. O how his eyes betrayed his love!
In brief: no tongue can utter what he deserves of praise after Abdul-Baha spoke those spiritualizing words (which appeared in the STAR OF THE WEST), and no eulogy can crown his service to the Cause with wreaths more than what the Greatest Branch of God has done by scattering flowers over his resting-place.
On Sunday, January 12th, in our weekly Bahai meeting, a Tablet was chanted in memory of our departed brother.
What a great blessing it is to depart from this world after having served the Cause with indefatigable effort.
In closing we wish to extend our heartfelt[Page 10]
sympathy to the family of the departed brother
in El-ABHA.
In behalf of the Bahai students of The American University of Beirut,
Husein A. Afnan.
DURING the month of January, little Leslie Armstrong, of Montreal, Canada, died as a result of being crushed by an automobile. We quote the following words from his parents to the Bahai friends:
"Nothing I can say can adequately express to you the gratitude and heartfelt appreciation Mrs. Armstrong and I have felt for the way you showed your affection and loving sympathy with us at a time when we were called upon to part with a priceless treasure and suffer a loss that has left its indelible impress upon us. . . . God took him to Himself out of the pain and distress this life would surely have given him after such terrible damage had been done to his head. . . . Our revered Abdul-Baha, during his visit to Montreal, filled Leslie's hands with fruit, put his hand on his head and kissed him, and said he would be a shining light for God, and so we believe that our little one has been privileged to be called to serve as a little soul-star in the realms beyond. . . .
"Ever yours in El-ABHA,
ON TEACHING—[Continued from page eight]
We are taught that if we offer the Truth of these teachings to any one, and they are refused, we must not be at all anxious, but leave them to themselves and pray for them. We must use such wisdom as we have in presenting—but at no moment must we have anxiety for that person, but only for the spreading of the Truth of God; because at this time He (God) desires to be known.
Every spring of water is pure at its source: the farther it wanders through the dust and earth, the more it becomes impregnated with that which is not water. Thus he who would drink must find a new spring, or live in a condition of sickness through using the impure water.
When this condition has come and when the need for real or pure water arrives—the Great Provider of springs supplies a new one similar in kind and purity to the former—but sometimes of greater magnitude—that all the thirsty ones may drink to their heart's content, and become strong and well.
In the morning when the new daylight awakens the earth the air is pure and sweet, fresh, inspiring and filled with the medicine of life, but as the day progresses, the dust is stirred up, the smoke of man's devices poisons the air, and finally comes the darkness of the night, and man enters into sleep.
So in every dispensation of God, His Prophet, His Mouthpiece appears—bringing water, light, air, truth for the world. It is given forth pure by Him, but as the years pass man's self colors, distorts, muddies and poisons that Truth until spiritual night ensues when the Sun of the Heaven of Religion is darkened and the Moon of Religious teachings by the priesthood is split asunder—refuses to give its light and chaos threatens. Then is seen in the East "the Sign of the Son of Man," the freshening of the new dawn, and then appears the arising of the Glorious Sun of Truth and Revelation.
In this our blessed age, that Sun has shone forth with all of its Glory as never before, with a brilliancy and splendor which this old earth has never known until now, except in the way of promises.
Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, Mohammed, et al., all manifested the Truth "of the Father"; but each promised that a greater One should appear at the consummation of the ages. This One is THE FATHER Himself.
All were pure mirrors showing to us the Sun of Righteousness reflected in themselves; but now the greatest of all, the manifested GOD Himself, BAHA'O'LLAH ("The Glory of God"), has come!
The Sun of the seen and the unseen heavens of spirituality has shone upon the earth, upon mankind, in this lowest horizon, with wisdom, knowledge, law, compassion, suffering and patience, with generosity, sweetness, humbleness, with majesty, power, brilliancy and everlasting glory, teaching all who have ears to hear or eyes to see—by word of mouth, by word of pen, by precept and by example the way of God as it has never been given to the world before in all the ages of the past.
Blessed is he who sees and hears, and who walks therein!
نجم باختر 1329 . جلد سوم . شماره 19 . ربیع الاوّل سنه 1331 .
فهرست مندرجات
1 . خطابۀ مبارک حضرت عبدالبهاء در ظهور مظاهر مقدّسۀ الهی .
2 . اشعار آبدار جناب نائب رضا قلی بن وکیل قمبوانی « من کلام المسکین » .
3 . مکاتیب آقا میرزا احمد سهراب از پاریس .
4 . شکر
5 . قصیده در مدح حضرت عبدالبهاء .
آدرس نجم باختر و پست آفیس باکس 233 . شیکاگو ایلینوی ایالات متّحدۀ امریکا .
Address: Najme Bakhtar, P. O. Box 283, Chicago, Ill., U. S. A.
[Page 12]
PAGE 1
VOL III
No 19
صفحه اوّل جلد سوم شماره نوزدهم قیمت اشتراک سالی دوازده قران . شیکاغو ایلینوی
ماه علاء سنه 69 نجم باختر 1329
این جریده بر حسب تاریخ بهائی هر نوزده روز چاپ و توزیع میگردد و در نهایت آزادی در مسائل یگانگی بشر و وحدت ادیان و انتشار علوم و فنون این قرن و تربیت اطفال و پیشرفت امر حضرت بهاء الله در اطراف جهان و توضیح حقائق این دین عمومی خواهد نوشت و مقالات مفید که موافق سبک اداره است قبول و نشر خواهد گردید .
صفحه 1 - 1
مظاهر مقدّسه
خطابۀ مبارک حضرت عبدالبهاء در ظهور مظاهر مقدّسۀ الهی در خانۀ امّة الله المنجذبه مسیس پارسنز مورّخه 31 جولای سنه 1912 که در حضور جمعی از بزرگان امریکا که در این نقطه برای تابستان جمع شده اند ساعت پنج بعد از ظهر . فرمودند :
من از مسس پارسنز بسیار ممنونم که سبب شده با شماها ملاقات و معاشرت میکنم من یک انسان شرقی هستم و شمااز اهالی این بلاد غرب هستید ممکن نبود اجتماع ما در یک جا لهذا مسس پارسنز سبب شده اند که من با شما معاشر و مجالس شده ام لهذا از او بسیار ممنونم که مرا با شما آشنا کرده است . من از شرق آمدم چون باین بلاد رسیدم ببلاد امریکا رسیدم دیدم ملتّ در مادیّات خیلی ترقیّ کرده است چه در تجارت چه در صناعت چه در علوم مادیّه ترقیّ زیاد نموده است مملکت از هر جهت معمور است همچنین در بلاد اروپا ترقیّات مادیّه در نهایت درجه است و روز بروز هم تزاید پیدا میکند ولکن دیدم که ترقیّات روحانی تدنّی کرده است احساسات روحانیّه
صفحه 2 - 1
ملکوتیّه کم شده است توجّه بخدا کم شده است جمیع قلوب متوجّه به امور دنیا شده است هرکس آرزو مینماید که حیات جسمانیش ترقیّ کند و ثروت دنیوی بیابد راحت و آسایش ناسوتی حاصل نماید مختصر این است احساسات مادّی بسیار است و احساسات ملکوتی کم و در جمیع اطراف جهان چنین است ولی از برای عالم انسانی سعادت بدون حصول احساسات روحانی ممکن نه و از برای راحت بشر راحت و اطمینان جز توجّه به ملکوت الله حاصل نشود جسد از مواهب مادیّه متلذذ گردد امّا روح از فیوضات الهیّه زنده شود سرور حقیقی و فرح روحانی جز به احساسات ملکوتی ممکن نیست زیرا عالم بشر محاط به بلایا و رزایا است انسان معرض هر بلائی و مصیبتی است هر انسان لابد بر این است که غمی و غصّۀ دارد هر یک از جهتی مثلا شخصی است در نهایت ثروت امّا مزاجش علیل است از این جهت محزون است شخصی در نهایت صحّت است امّا یک مصیبتی بر او وارد میشود یک طفلی از اطفالش یا یکی از نزدیکترین اقربایش یا یکی از بهترین دوستانش میمیرد و از این جهات محزون است شخص دیگر ملاحظه میشود دشمن دارد و دشمنان پاپی او میشوند از
صفحه 1 - 2
این سبب مغموم است و اگر از جمیع این جهات سرور او مکملّ باشد محسود واقع میشود و از این جهت در غم و غصّه است خلاصه راحتی از برای انسان در این جهان نیست نفسی نمی توانید بیابید که غم و غصّه نداشته باشد امّا اگر احساست روحانی داشته باشد توجّه به ملکوت الهی داشته باشد این از برای او مدار تسّلی است وقتی که توجّه به خدا میکند احساسات روحانی می یابد هر غم و غصّۀ را فراموش میکند اگر از جمیع جهات بلایا بر او هجوم کند تسلیّ قلب دارد وقتی توجّه بخدا میکند جمیع این حزن و هموم و غموم زائل میشود نهایت فرح و سرور حاصل میکند بشارات الهی احاطه مینماید در نهایت ذلتّ عزّت برای خود می بیند در نهایت فقر خود را غنی می بیند . در زمان قدیم وقتی آمد که احساسات روحانی نماند مادیّات غلبه کرد و جمیع افکار بشر حصر در ناسوت شد کسی را توجّهی بخدا نماند ابواب معرفت الله مسدود شد نار محبّت الله بکلیّ خواموش گشت جمیع بشر در بحر مادّه غرق شدند حضرت ابراهیم ظاهر شد بحر روحانیّات به موج آمد انوار ملکوت طلوع کرد نفحۀ حیات در قلوب دمید روحانیّات ظاهر شد قوای ملکوت بروز نمود و غلبه بر قوای مادیّات کرد نور هدایت برافروخت تا آنکه عالم بشر به انوار ملکوت الهی احاطه گردید بعد از مدّتی باز آن انوار خاموش شد ظلمات مادیّه جهان را در بر گرفت خلق از خدا غافل شدند توجّهی به ملکوت نماند حضرت موسی ظاهر شد علم دیانت را بلند کرد به بیان ملکوت مباشرت نمود شمع هدایت روشن شد انوار ملکوت از هر جهت تابید اسرائیلیان
صفحه 2 - 2
منجذب به ملکوت الله شدند بعد از مدّتی باز آن شمع خواموش گشت عالم را ظلمات احاطه کرد مردم مشغول به امور جسمانی شدند احساسات جمیع بشر مادّی شد جمیع قلوب تعلقّ به عالم ناسوت یافت و جمیع ناس مانند حشرات تنزّل در اعماق زمین کردند و جمیع نوع انسان مانند حیوان شد ابدا احساسات روحانی نماند ابدا نور هدایت نماند جمیع ملل غرق مادیّات شدند در چنین حالتی کوکب مسیح طالع شد صبح هدایت دمید انوار ملکوت روشن شد احساسات روحانیّه نبعان کرد قلوب منجذب بخدا شد ارواح مستبشر به بشارات گردید روحانیّات بر مادیّات غلبه کرد بدرجۀ رسید که مادیّات را هیچ حکمی نماند مدّتی بر این منوال گذشت بعد جزیرة العرب تاریک شد وحشیّت به میان آمد خونخواری به میان آمد اقوام عرب با یکدیگر بحرب پرداختند خون یکدیگر را میریختند اموال یکدیگر را غارت میکردند اولاد یکدیگر را اسیر مینمودند در همچو حالتی حضرت محمّد در جزیرة العرب ظاهر شد این قبائل و عشائر وحشیّه را تربیت کرد این نفوس گمراه را هدایت نمود این نادانان را به نورانیّت مدنیّت منوّر ساخت نفوس تربیت شد احساسات روحانیّه حاصل گردید توجّه بخدا تحققّ یافت بعد باز بهم خورد کوکب نورانی هدایت غروب کرد ظلمت ضلالت احاطه نمود قوای مادیّه بروز و ظهور کرد احساسات دینیّه نماند قلوب تاریک شد عقول تدنّی کرد در این وقت حضرت باب در ایران ظاهر شد کوکب حضرت بهاء الله طلوع نمود و انوار ملکوت به اشدّ قوی بتابید قوای مادیّه
صفحه 1 - 3
در شرق مضمحلّ گردید احساسات مادیّه نماند نورانیّت آسمانی طلوع کرد وحشیّت مند فع شد تربیت الهیّه ظاهر گردید قوای معنویّه تأثیر نمود غفلت و ضلالت خلق کم شد والآن در ایران نورانیّت بهاء الله چنان احاطه کرده است که نفوس تربیت میشوند خلقی پیدا شده اند که مثل ملائکه گشتند که بجان و دل متوجّه ملکوت الله هستند و غرق در بحر روحانیّات هستند رحمانی هستند نورانی هستند آسمانی هستند ابدا اعتنائی باین دنیا ندارند کار میکنند صنعت دارند مشغول به تحصیل معیشت هستند و نهایت همّت را مینمایند لکن قلوبشان متوجّه به خدا است روحشان مستبشر به بشارات الله است اخلاقشان بسیار ترقیّ کرده است از اخلاق مذمومه در میانشان نمانده به جمیع خلق عالم مهربانند جمیع بشر را دوست میدارند کلّ را اقوام و خویشان خود میدانند عالم انسانی را یک شجر مینامند و جمیع افراد بشر را به منزلۀ برگها و شکوفه ها و اثمار آن شجر میدانند نهایت آرزویشان صلح عمومی است و اعتقادشان وحدت عالم انسانی است مشتاق ترقیّ علوم و فنونند و ساعی در آنچه سبب علوّ عالم انسانی تعصّباتی ندارند تعصّب مذهبی ندارند تعصّب جنسی ندارند تعصّب وطنی ندارند تعصّب سیاسی ندارند تعصّب لسانی ندارند از جمیع تعصّبات آزادند روی زمین را یک وطن میدانند و جمیع بشر را یک ملتّ میدانند و جمیع نفوس را بندگان حقّ میشمرند و خدا را به جمیع بشر مهربان میدانند لهذا آنان با جمیع بشر مهربانند هیچ مقصودی ندارند جز رضای خدا آرزوئی ندارند
صفحه 2 - 3
جز محبّت قلوب انسانی بجهت حصول این مقام بلا های زیاد دیده اند احزاب سائره بر اینها هجوم آوردند و به نهایت تعصّب برخواستند اموال اینها را غارت کردند و بدرجۀ که بعضی نفوس را جسدشان را سوزانیدند ولکن اینها ابدا فتور نیاوردند هر روز هدف تیری شدند و در هر وقت جانفشان بودند و بکمال سرور و فرح شهادت را قبول کردند تا اینکه ناصرالدّین شاه مرد تعرّض به اینها کم شد قدری امنیّت پیدا کردند و حالا بیشتر از پیش میکوشند تا جمیع بشر با یکدیگر مهربان شوند و نوع انسان حکم عائلۀ واحده یابد و در این خصوص نهایت جانفشانی مینمایند تا عالم انسانی نورانی گردد و عالم ناسوتی انعکاسات عالم لاهوتی شود و قلوب ظلمانی نورانی گردد و رذائل عالم بشر زائل گردد و فضائل آسمانی جلوه کند نظر باین جهت است که من این سفر بعید را قبول کردم و تا باینجا آمدم که تا شرق و غرب بهم التیام یابد نهایت ارتباط حاصل کنند معاونت یکدیگر نمایند و سبب راحت یکدیگر شوند اگر شرق و غرب بهمدیگر الفت پیدا کنند علم صلح عمومی موج زند و وحدت عالم انسانی جلوه کند و از برای کلّ راحت و آسایش حاصل شود لهذا تضرّع و زاری به ملکوت البهی می کنم که خدا این وجوه را روشن و این قلوب را نورانی نماید جانها را به بشارات آسمانی مستبشر کند تا جمیع در پناه خدا محفوظ مانیم و در ظلّ عنایت او به نهایت سعادت برسیم راحت جسمانی یابیم و سعادت روحانی جوئیم و از جمیع جهات به نهایت آرزو و آمال خویش برسیم این است آمال من این است مناجات من به خدا .
صفحه 1 - 4
من کلام المسکین . اشعار آبدار جناب نائب رضا قلی ابن وکیل قمبوانی
عالم شده پر غوغا برخیز و تماشا کن غوغا است در امریکا بر خیز و تماشا کن
بردار سر از بستر بر اوج فلک بنگر هان بیدق یا ابهی برخیز و تماشا کن
ای خفتۀ در غفلت ای مست پی حیرت هنگامه شده برپا برخیز و تما شا کن
رفت آنشه با احسان در ملک فرنگستان جشن است در امریکا برخیز و تماشاکن
بنگر هله از ادیان آورده بر او ایمان با نغمۀ یا بشری برخیز و تماشاکن
در جسم جهان جان بین واجب تو درامکان بین در لفظنگر معنی برخیز و تماشاکن
در صومعه ترساهادر دیرو کلیساها قسیّس کشد هورا بر خیز و تماشا کن
ای مردۀ دل مخمود ها عبد بها بنمود دنیای جدید احیا برخیز و تماشا کن
آئین بهائی را دین کبریائی را تعلیم دهد آنجا برخیز و تماشا کن
دلها همه شیدا شد زاعجاز مسیحا شد کوران جهان بینا برخیز و تماشا کن
تاکی نشوی مقبل بگذر توار آب و گل ای زاهد بی تقوی برخیز و تماشاکن
مصلح بنی آدم میکند در این عالم خود صلح ملل اجرا برخیز و تماشاکن
بگشای دو چشم و بین خدمت که کند بردین جز عبدالبهاء تنها برخیز و تماشا کن
صفحه 2 - 4
زد کوس عبودیّت ناقوس عمومیّت اندر همۀ دنیا برخیز و تماشا کن
آن جان جهان آمد وآن کهف امان آمد چند ماندۀ برجا برخیز و تماشاکن
ای منتظر دیدار پرده برگرفته یار خود ز طلعت نورا برخیز و تماشا کن
باز بندۀ مقصود باز ترانۀ داود جلوه گر شد از عکا برخیز و تماشا کن
نور عدل تابان شد نار حبّ فروزان شد هان ز سینۀ سینا برخیز و تماشاکن
در بحر غنای حقّ مسکین شده مستغرق الکن بدو شد گویا برخیز وتماشا کن
مکتوب از پاریس بتاریخ 27 شهر جانویه سنه 1913
جناب آقا میرزا احمد سهراب نوشته اند که : امروز بعد از ظهر مجلسی در خانه مستر اسکت بود جمعی از یاران الهی در آنجا جمع بودند حضرت من اراده الله خطابۀ مفصّل اداء نمودند که بی نهایت مؤثرّ واقع شد همۀ حاضرین اظهار سرور و فرح نمودند . شاید تا بیستم ماه آینده در پاریس تشریف داشته باشند و از اینجا عازم استوت گارت ( یکی از شهرهای معتبرۀ آلمان ) گشته بطرف مصر و ارض مقصود مراجعت نمایند امروز ظهر بمناسبتی حضرت مولی الوری ذکر ابوی آن اخوی مهربان « آقا محمّد مصطفی » را نمودند و فرمودند که : « فی الحقیقه شجاع بود از نفوس نادرۀ عصر بود »
صفحه 1 - 5
مکتوب ثانی از پاریس مورّخه 9 فبرایر سنه 1913
الحمدلله شمس عهد و میثاق در نهایت اشراق از افق پاریس بر عالم و عالمیان میدرخشد و قلوب بواسطۀ انوار پرلمعان محبّت و رأفت جمال جانان روشن میگردد گوشها بواسطۀ اصغاء بیانات مبارک مهتزّ میشود چشمها از مشاهدۀ جمال بیمثال پر ضیاء است مجالس و محافل هر روز و هرشب حاضر و مهیّا و نفوس بیشمار از یار و اغیار و اروپاوی و ایرانی بحضور دلبر عالمیان مشرّف گشته شیفتۀ صفات و کمال مرکز میثاق میگردند دوستان مسرورندیاران پروله و انجذابند هریک شمع مجلس است میسوزد و نور می بخشد دیروز حضرت حاجی امین و آقا میرزا عزیزالله خان و اخوی ایشان آقا میرزا ولی الله خان و آقا محمّد خان و آقا میرزا عبدالله و دکتر مهدی خان مرخصّ شده عازم ایران گشتند شاید در هفتۀ آینده بیمثال مه تابان و پیمان از افق آلمان بدرخشد و آن مملکت را پر از فیوضات حضرت رحمن فرماید .
شکر
نجم باختر از جمیع حضرات مشترکین ممنون و متشکرّ بوده و هست زیرا فی الحقیقهداحبّای الهی سبب بودند که این جریدۀ بهائی به جمیع آفاق منتشر شود چون الآن سال سوم به آخر رسید لهذا آرزو مینماید که عدد مشترکین زیادتر شود و قیمت اشتراک سال چهارم را بزودی ارسال فرماییند و خواهش مینماید که آدرس های خودشان به فارسی و انگلیسی بنویسند و به شیکاغو
صفحه 2 - 5
بفرستند و هرگاه تغییر محلّ و آدرس کنند یا آنکه جریده نمیرسد فورا باین اداره اطلاع دهند
قصیده
در مدح حضرت عبدالبهاء یکی از شعرای ایرانیان در پاریسدر مجلس اعیان ایستاد بصورت جلی خواند بتاریخ 28 صفر سنه 1331 مطابق 6 فبرائر سنه 1913 :
در ظلمتم و ئنور و ضیائی به از تو نیست سوگند بر بها که بهائی به از تو نیست
هرکس به بندگی خداوند پای بست این بنده را یقین که خدائی به از تو نیست
گمگشتگان وادی اغفال و جهل را راه نجات و راهنمائی به از تو نیست
نمیدید اگر کلیم رخت را بکوه طور نمیگفت حبّذا که لقائی به از تو نیست
براین زمین بی ثمر از فیض سرمدی باران رحمتی و سمائی به از تو نیست
گر آسیا مریض و اروپاست مرگ او این درد را طبیب و دوائی به از تو نیست
آنکو که شد شهید ره عاشقان تو بر اهل وی جز او عطائی به از تو نیست
گو بینواست عارف و گر بانوا و برگ شاکر بود که برگ و نوائی به از تو نیست
