The Pattern of Bahá’í Life/Text

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THE PATTERN OF BAHÁ’Í LIFE

A Compilation

BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST
LONDON

[Page 1]THE PATTERN OF BAHÁ’Í LIFE

A Compilation from Bahá’í Scripture with some passages from the writings of the Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith.

BAHÁ’Í PUBLISHING TRUST BM/BAHÁ’Í, LONDON, W.C.1.

[Page 2]CONTENTS

Purity

Kindliness

Radiance

Index

[Page 3]Compiled and published at the direction of National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the British Isles.

First Edition - - 1948 Second Edition - 1953

[Page 4]The following abbreviations are used throughout, for the names of Bahá’í books from which passages have been selected.

A.B.L. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. in London.

A.D.J. Advent of Divine Justice (The).

A.H.W. Arabic Hidden Words.

B.P. Bahá’í Procedure (American edition, 1942).

B.W.F. Bahá’í World Faith (American edition, 1943).

E.S.W. Epistle to the Son of the Wolf.

G.W.B. Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh.

K.I. Kitáb-i-Íqán.

P.T. Paris Talks.

P.H.W. Persian Hidden Words.

P.M. Prayers and Meditations of Bahá’u’lláh.

P.D.C. Promised Day is Come (The).

P.U.P. Promulgation of Universal Peace.

S.A.Q. Some Answered Questions.

S.B.S. Selections from Bahá’í Scripture.

T.A.B. Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

T.B. Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh.

W.T. Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

[Page 5]INTRODUCTION

“My first counsel is this.‘ Possess a pure, kindly and radiant heart, that thine may be a sovereignty ancient, imperislzable and everlasting.”

The writings and recorded utterances of Bahá’u’lláh and of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá abound with passages summoning all people to a new life of impeccable conduct.

As in so many other fields of revelation, so too in the field of morals the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh are a fruition, a culmination, a fulfilment of the relatively fragmentary statements of the former Manifestations of God. The relationship is as that of the fruit to the bud, of the law of Moses and the fragrant flower of the Speaker of the Mount.

So rich in content are these passages that almost they defy classification, and indeed there is an inevitable overlap "in meaning between them. The above quotation from the “Hidden Words” of Bahá’u’lláh suggested the method that has been adopted, to divide the material into three main groups concerned respectively with the individual’s relationship to self, to others, and to God, betokened in essence by purity, kindliness, and radiance.

In addition, for their special appropriateness to the present day, A three extracts have been chosen from “The Advent of Divine Justice,” a letter sent by Shoghi Effendi, present Guardian of the Bahá’í Faith, to the American Bahá’ís during their first great expansion project. These have been adapted by suitable omissions. With the exception of these and one[Page 6] or two other passages made clear in the context, all that follows takes its origin from Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.

It should not, by any means, be supposed that this selection exhausts the range of the moral teachings of the Faith. Indeed, during compilation, it was found that the material available, after preliminary sifting, was many times too copious, and that material represents only what has so far been translated into English from the original Persian and Arabic, in which the Founder of the Bahá’í Faith and His Son rendered the revelation of truth for this day.

Each great Manifestation of God, perfectly reflecting that source of the energy and attractive power which men call love, in manner adapted to the changing needs of a progressively " growing mankind, has ever had a threefold purpose; the perpetuation of man’s civilization; the purification of his qualities; and the promotion of his happiness in all the worlds of God.

It is with the central and pivotal aspect of this purpose, the purification of man’s qualities, upon which depend both the others, that this selection is concerned in particular.

Man himself, created to know, serve, worship, praise, reflect, and love God, is to be regarded as a mine of attributes, each latent and potential. Through that interaction with the world, which is called education, these attributes are caused to appear. If, in the course of this interaction, man becomes imbued with a desire for self-gratification, these attributes will be turned inward, the bonds of love and regard for others will weaken and disappear, and those qualities which, in reality, denote extreme lack, the opposites of all virtues, will be developed. If, on the other hand, man realises that his neighbour also has been created to reflect the perfections of God, he willseek to associate with that neighbour so that, through mutual co-operation, each may increasehis reflective capacity and so develop, grow and expand until those perfections are

[Page 7]T INTRODUCTION 7

clearly revealed, and the soul so empowered made ready for life in another world. This association, this love, this fellowship, is the foundation of that ever-advancing civilisation for the promotion of which all men have come into being.

Just as each great Manifestation of God is a perfect mirror of the Divine Essence, so all other human beings are mirrors capable, by turning towards those Manifestations and in particular towards Bahá’u’lláh, the Manifestation of this Day, of

reflecting Their glorious attributes, the very attributes needed for perpetuated existence in the heavenly kingdom.

‘ ‘The rewards of this life are the virtues and perfections which adorn the reality of man.” COMPILER.

[Page 8]PURITY

BODY

Thine eye is My trust, suffer not the dust of vain desires to becloud its lustre. Thine ear is a sign of My bounty, let not the tumult of unseemly motives turn it away from My word that encompasseth all creation. Thine heart is My treasury, allow not the treacherous hand of self to rob thee of the pearls which I have treasured therein. Thine hand is a symbol of My loving-kindness, hinder it not from holding fast unto My guarded and hidden Tablets.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 322)

CHASTITY

They that follow their lusts and corrupt inclinations have erred and dissipated their efforts. They indeed are of the lost.

Purity and chastity have been, and still are, the most great ornaments for the handmaidens of God. God is My witness! The brightness of the light of chastity sheddeth its illumination upon the worlds of the spirit, and its fragrance is wafted even unto the Most Exalted Paradise. T

God hath verily made chastity to be a crown for the heads of His handmaidens. Great is the blessedness of that handmaiden that hath attained unto this great station.

Say: He is not to be numbered with the people of Bahá. who followeth his mundane desires, or fixeth his heart on things of the earth. He is My true follower who, if he come to a valley of pure gold will pass straight through it aloof as a cloud, and will neither turn back, nor pause. Such a man is

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[Page 9]PURITY 9

assuredly of Me. From his garment the Concourse on high can inhale the fragrance of sanctity. . . . And if he met the fairest and most comely of women, he would not feel his heart seduced by the least shadow of desire for her beauty. Such an one indeed is the creation of spotless chastity. Thus instructeth you the Pen of the Ancient Days, as bidden by your Lord, the Almighty, the All-Bountiful.

Bahá’u’lláh (A.D._]. 26, 27)

A chaste and holy life should be regarded as an essential factor that must contribute its proper share to the strengthening and vitalisation of the Bahá’í community, upon which must in turn depend the success of any Bahá’í plan or enterprise. In these days when the forces of irreligion are weakening the moral fibre, and undermining the foundations of individual morality, the obligation of chastity and holiness must claim an increasing share of the attention of the believers, both in their individual capacities and as the responsible custodians of the interests of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. All of them, be they men or women, must, at this threatening hour when the fights of religion are fading out, and its restraints are one by one being abolished, pause to examine themselves, scrutinise their conduct, and with characteristic resolution arise to purge the life of their community of every. trace of moral laxity that might stain the name, or impair the integrity, of so holy and precious a Faith.

A chaste and holy life must be made the controlling principle in the behaviour and conduct of all Bahá’ís, both in their social relations with the members of their own community, and in their contact with the world at large. It must adorn and reinforce the ceaseless labours and meritorious exertions of those whose enviable position is to propagate the Message, -and to administer the affairs, of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. It must be upheld, in all its integrity and

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implications, in every phase of the life of S those who fill the ranks of that Faith, whether in their homes, their travels, their clubs, their societies, their entertainments, their schools, and their universities. It must be accorded special consideration in the conduct of the social activities of every Bahá’í Summer

I

School and any other occasions on which Bahá’í community a

life is organised and fostered. It must be closely and continually identified with the mission of the Bahá’í Youth, both as an element in the life of the Bahá’í community, and as a

factor in the future progress and orientation of the youth of S

their own country.

Such a chaste and holy life, with its implications of modesty, purity, temperance, decency, and clean-mindedness, involves no less than the exercise of moderation in all that pertains to dress, language, amusements, and all artistic and literary avocations. It demands daily vigilance in the control of one’s carnal desires and corrupt inclinations. It calls for the abandonment of a frivolous conduct, with its excessive attachment to trivial and often mis-directed pleasures. It requires

total abstinence from all alcoholic drinks, from opium, and

from similar habit-forming drugs. It condemns the prostitution of art and of literature, the practices of nudism and of companionate marriage, infidelity in marital relationships, and all manner of promiscuity, of easy familiarity, and of sexual vices. It can tolerate no compromise with the theories, the

standards, the habits, and the excesses of a decadent age.

Nay, rather it seeks to demonstrate, through the dynamic force

of its example, the pernicious character of such theories, the 5*

falsity of such‘ standards, the hollowness of such claims, the perversity of such habits, and the sacrilegious character of such excesses. S

It must be remembered, however, that the maintenance of S

such a high standard of moral conduct is not to be associated or

confused with any form of , asceticism, or of excessive and

[Page 11]PURITY 1 1

bigoted puritanism. The standard inculcated by Bahá’u’lláh, ‘

seeks, under no circumstances,» to deny any one the legitimate right and privilege to desire the fullest advantage and benefit from the manifold joys, beauties, and pleasures with which the world has been so plentifully enriched by an All-loving Creator. ‘ ‘Should a man,” Bahá’u’lláh Himself reassures us, “wish to adorn himself with the ornaments of the earth, to wear its apparels, or partake of the benefits it can bestow, no harm can befall him, if he alloweth nothing whatever to intervene between him and God, for God hath ordained every good thing, whether created in the heavens or in the earth, fbr such of His servants as trubi believe in Him. Eat ye, 0 people, of the good things which God hath allowed you, and deprive

not yourselves from His wondrous bounties. Render thanks and praise

unto Him, and be of them that are truly thankful.” SHOGHI EFFENDI (A.D.J. 24)

CLEANLI NES S Wings that are besmirched with mire can never soar.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 131)

When man in all conditions is pure and immaculate, he will become the centre of the reflection of the manifest light. In all his actions and conduct these must first be purity, then beauty, and independence. The channel must be cleansed before it is filled with sweet water. The pure eye comprehendeth the sight and the meaning of God; the pure nostril inhaleth, the perfumes of the rose-garden of bounty; the pure heart becometh the mirror of the beauty of truth. This is why, in the heavenly Books, the divine counsels and commands have been compared to water.

Cleanliness and sanctity, purity and delicacy exalt humanity and make the contingent being progress. Even when applied to physical things, delicacy causeth the attainment of spirituality, as it is established in the Holy Scriptures.

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External cleanliness, although it is but a physical thing, hath"~ a great influence upon spirituality.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 581)

CONFESSION Abase not thyself, neither sigh and weep.

The sinner, when in a state wherein he finds himself free and severed from all else save God, must beg for God’s forgiveness and pardon. It is not allowable to declare one’s sins and transgressions before any man, inasmuch as this has not been, nor is conducive to securing God’s forgiveness and pardon. At the same time such confession before the creatures leads to one’s humiliation and abasement, and God does not wish for the humiliation of His servants.

BAH ’U’LLAH (P.H.W. 44, T.B. 87)

DECENCY

All men have been created to carry forward an everadvancing civilisation. . . . To act like the beasts of the field is unworthy of man. Those virtues that befit his dignity are forbearance, mercy, compassion and loving-kindness towards all the peoples and kindreds of the earth.

‘To transgress the limits of one’s own rank and station is, in no wise, permissible. The integrity of every rank and station must needs be preserved. By this is meant that every

' created thing should be viewed in the light of the station it

hath been ordained to occupy. Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 215, 188)

FOR TI TUDE

The source of courage and power is the promotion of the

Word of God, and steadfastness in His love.

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[Page 13]PURITY 13

For everything there is a sign. The sign of love is fortitude under My decree and patience under My trials.

Bahá’u’lláh (S.B.S. 323, A.H.W. 43)

HEAL TH

Every malady afflicting the body of man is an impediment that preventeth the soul from manifesting its inherent might

and P°“’°’° Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 154)

If the health and well being of the body be expended in the path of the kingdom, this is very acceptable and praiseworthy; and if it is expended to the benefit of the human world in general, even though it be to their material (or bodily) benefit and be a means of doing good—that is also acceptable. But if the health and welfare of man be spent in sensual desires, in a life on the animal plane, and in devilish pursuitsthen disease is better than such, health; nay, death itself is preferable to such a life. If thou art desirous of health, wish thou health for serving the kingdom. e

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 207)

HUMILI TY

Humility exalteth man to the heaven of glory and power, whilst pride abaseth him to the depths of wretchedness and degradation.

Every man of discernment, while walking upon the earth, feeleth indeed abashed, inasmuch as he is fully aware that the thing which is the source of his prosperity, his wealth, his might, his exaltation, his advancement and power is, as ordained by God, the very earth which is trodden beneath the feet of all men. There can be no doubt that whoever is cognisant of this truth, is cleansed and sanctified from all pride, arrogance, and vain glory.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 30, 44) t

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INTEGRITY ,

The sword of a virtuous character and upright conduct is sharper than blades of steel.

This people need no weapons of destruction, inasmuch as they have girded themselves to reconstruct the world. Their hosts are the hosts of goodly deeds, and their arms the arms of upright conduct, and their commander the fear of God.

Whoso ariseth, in. this Day, to aid Our Cause, and summoneth to his assistance the hosts of a praiseworthy character and upright conduct, the influence flowing from such an action will, most certainly, be difl‘used throughout the whole world.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 29, 74, G.W.B. 287)

LIBERTY

Liberty must, in the end, lead to sedition, whose flames none can quench . . . know ye that the embodiment of liberty and its symbol is the animal. That which beseemeth man is submission unto such restraints as will protect him from his own ignorance, and guard him against the harm of the mischiefmaker. Liberty causeth man to overstep the bounds of propriety, and to infringe on the dignity of his station. It debaseth him to the level of extreme depravity and wickedness. Say: True liberty consisteth in man’s submission unto My commandments, little as ye know it. Were men to observe that which we have sent down unto them from the Heaven of Revelation, they would of a certainty, attain unto perfect liberty. Say: The liberty that profiteth you is to be found nowhere except in complete -servitude unto God, the Eternal Truth. Whoso hath tasted of its sweetness will refuse to barter it for all the dominion of earth and heaven.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 335)

[Page 15]PURITY 15

‘MA TERIALT GOODS

Say: Rejoice not in thethings ye possess; to-night they are yours, to-morrow others will possess them.

O Son of man! Thou dost wish for gold and I desire thy freedom from it. Thou thinkest thyself rich in its possession, and I recognise thy wealth in thy sanctity therefrom. By My life! this is My knowledge, and that is thy fancy; how can My way accord with thine ?

By Him Who shineth above the Day-Spring of Sanctity! If the whole earth were to be converted into silver and gold, no man who can be said to have truly ascended into the heaven

of faith and certitude would deign to regard it, much less to

Seize and keep it’ Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 133, A.H.W. 56, A.D.J. 19) M ODERA TI ON V Whatsoever passeth beyond the limits of moderation will cease to exert a beneficial influence.

Whoso cleaveth to justice, can, under no circumstances, transgress the limits of moderation. The civilisation, so often vaunted by the learned exponents of arts and sciences, will, if allowed to overleap the bounds of moderation, bring great evil upon men. . . . If carried to excess, civilisation will prove

as prolific a source of evil as it had been of goodness when

kept within the restraints of moderation. . . . All other things are subject to this same principle of moderation.

BAHA’u’LL.4H (G.W.B. 216, 342)

M ODESTY

The fear of God hath ever been a. sure defence and a safe stronghold for all the peoples of the world. It is the chief cause of the protection_ of mankind, and the supreme instrument for its preservation. Indeed, there existeth in man a

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faculty which deterreth him from, and guardeth him against, whatever is unworthy and unseemly, and which is known as his sense of shame.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 27)

PA TIENCE He, verily, shall increase the reward of them that endure

with patience.

‘If anyone revile you, or trouble touch you, in the path of God, be patient, and put your trust in Him Who heareth, Who

s°“"‘h' Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 129, E.S.W. 24)

PURI TY

We verily behold, your actions. If we perceive from them the sweet-smelling savour of purity and holiness, we will most certainly bless you. a

We enjoin the servants of God and His handmaidens to be pure and to fear God, that they may shake off the slumber of their corrupt desires and turn towards God.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 307, E.S.W. 23)

The pure heart is the one that is entirely cut away from

5°15 ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 110)

SANCTI TY

He hath chosen out of the whole world the hearts of His servants, and made them each a seat for the revelation of His glory. Wherefore, sanctify them from every defilement, that the things for which ye were created may be engraven upon

them.

[Page 17]punrrv 17

Say: Have mercy on yourselves and on your fellowmen, and suffer not the Cause of God—a Cause which is immeasurably exalted above the inmost essence of ’sanctity—to be sullied with the stain of your idle fancies, your unseemly and corrupt imaginations. ‘

Arise, O people, and, by the power of God’s might, resolve to gain the Victory over your own selves, that haply the whole

earth may be freed and sanctified from its servitude to the gods.

of its idle fancies—gods that have inflicted such loss upon, and are responsible for the misery of, their wretched worshippers. These idols form the obstacle that impedeth man in his efforts to advance in the path of perfection.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 297, 299, 93)

SELF -K N 0 WLED GE

Man should know his own self, and know those things which lead to loftiness or baseness, to shame or to honour, to affluence or to poverty. After man has realised his own being and become mature, then for him wealth (or competence) is needed.

- Could ye apprehend with what wonders of My munificence and bounty I have willed to entrust your souls ye would, of a truth, rid yourselves of attachment to all created things, and would gain a true knowledge of your own selves—a knowledge which is the same as the comprehension of Mine own Being. Ye would find yourselves independent of all else but Me, and would perceive, with your inner and outer eye, and as manifest as the revelation of My effulgent Name, the seas of My lovingkindness and bounty moving within you.

Bahá’u’lláh (T.B. 5, G.W.B. 326) [Page 18]18 THE PATTERN OF Bahá’í LIFE

SELFLESSNESS The station of absolute self-surrender transcendeth, and will ever remain exalted above every other station.

Be light and untrammelled as the breeze, that ye may obtain admittance into the precincts of My court, My inviolable Sanctuary.

Say: Deliver your souls, O people, from the bondage of self, and purify them from all attachment to anything ‘besides Me. Remembrance of Me cleanseth all things from defilement, could ye but perceive it.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 338, 323, 294)

Self-love is a strange trait and the means of the destruction of many important souls in the world. If man be imbued with all good qualities but be selfish, all the other virtues will fade or pass away and eventually he will grow worse.

_ ‘_.______,.__—.__,

........—- -4 '*g___

It behovetlrthee to sever.thyself from all desires save T

ford, the Supreme, expecting no help or aid from anyone in

e universe. ‘”\~-- ‘ BDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 136, 97)

SI N CERI TY

The true seeker should not wish for others that which he doth not wish for himself, nor promise that which he doth not fulfil.

Expect not that they who violate the ordinances of God will be trustworthy or sincere in the faith they profess. Avoid them, and preserve strict guard over thyself, lest their devices and mischief hurt thee. 3 ‘

Take heed, O people, lest ye be of them that give good counsel to others, but forget to follow it themselves. The words of such as these, and beyond the words the realities of

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all things, and beyond these realities the angels that are nigh unto God, bring against them the accusation of falsehood.

Bahá’u’lláh (K.I. 194, G.W.B. 233, 277)

It is incumbent upon thee to be purely sincere, to turn to the holy kingdom and to generously give the spirit in the cause of the Lord of Might. Verily, this is no other than an eternal

A and everlasting life which hath no end in the world of existence.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 620)

SLEEP

If a man sleep, it should not be for pleasure, but to rest the body in order to do better, to speak better, to explain more beautifully, to serve the servants of God and to prove the truths. When he remains awake he should seek to be attentive, serve the Cause of God and sacrifice his own stations for those of God. When he attains to this station, the confirmations of the Holy Spirit will surely reach him, and man with this power can withstand all who inhabit the earth. '

‘A.BDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 460)

TEMPERANCE

Drink ye, O handmaidens of God, the Mystic wine from the cup of My words. Cast away, then, from you that which your minds abhor, for it hath been forbidden unto you in His Tablets and His Scriptures. Beware lest ye barter away the River that is life indeed for that which the souls of the purehearted detest. Become ye intoxicated with the wine of the love of God, and not with that which deadeneth your minds, O ye that adore Him! Verily it hath been forbidden unto every believer, whether man or woman.

BA1-IA’U’LLAH (A.D.]. 27)

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The drinking of wine is, according to the text of the Most Holy Book, "forbidden; for it is the cause of chronic diseases, weakeneth the nerves, and consumeth the mind.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.D.]. 27)

WORLD

O Son of being ! Busy not thyself with this world, for with fire We test the gold, and with gold We test Our servants.

Say: If ye be seekers after this life and the vanities thereof, ye should have sought them while ye were still enclosed in your mother’s wombs, for at that time ye were continually approaching them, could ye but perceive it. Ye have, on the other hand, ever since ye were born and attained maturity, been all the while receding from the world and drawing closer to dust. Why, then, exhibit such greed in amassing the treasures of the earth, when your days are numbered and your chance is well-nigh lost ? Will ye not, then, 0 heedless ones, shake off your slumber P

The world is but a show, vain and empty, a mere nothing, bearing the semblance of reality. Set not your affections upon it. Break not the bond that uniteth you with your Creator, and be not of those that have erred and strayed from His ways. Verily I say, the world is like a vapour in the desert, which the thirsty dreameth to be water and striveth after it with all his might, until when he cometh unto it, he findeth it to be mere illusion. It may, moreover, be likened unto the lifeless image of the beloved whom the lover hath sought and found, in the end, after long search and to his utmost regret, to be such as cannot fatten nor appease his hunger.

' Bahá’u’lláh (A.H.W. 55, G.W.B. 127, 328)

[Page 21]KINDLINESS

RECTITUDE OF CONDUCT

Rectitude of conduct, with its implications of justice, equity, truthfulness, honesty, fair-mindedness, reliability and trustworthiness, must distinguish every phase of the life of the Bahá’í community.

Such a rectitude of conduct must manifest itself, with everincreasing potency, in every verdict which the elected representatives of the Bahá’í community, in whatever capacity they may find themselves, may be called upon to pronounce. It must be constantly reflected in the business dealings of all its members, in their domestic lives, in all manner of employment, and in any service they may, in the future, render their government or people. It must be exemplified in the conduct of all Bahá’í elections, when exercising their sacred rights and functions. It must characterise the attitude of every loyal believer towards non-acceptance of political posts, non-identification with political parties, non-participation in political controversies, and non-membership in political organisations and ecclesiastical institutions. It must reveal itself in the uncompromising adherence of all, whether young or old, to the clearly enunciated and fundamental principles laid down by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His addresses, and to the laws and ordinances revealed by Bahá’u’lláh in His Most Holy Book. It must be demonstrated in the impartiality of every defender of the Faith against its enemies, in his fair-mindedness in recognising any merits that enemy may possess, and in his honesty in discharging any obligations he may have towards him. It must constitute the brightest ornament of the life, the pursuits, the exertions and the utterances of every Bahá’í teacher, whether labouring at home or abroad, whether in the front ranks of the teaching forces or occupying a less active and responsible

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position. It must be made the hall-mark of that numerically small, yet intensely dynamic and highly responsible body of the elected representatives of every Bahá’í community, which constitutes the sustaining pillar, and the sole instrument for the election, in every community, of that Universal House whose very‘ name and title, as ordained by Bahá’u’lláh, symbolises that rectitude of conduct which is its highest mission to safeguard and enforce.

So great and transcendental is this principle of Divine justice, a principle that must be regarded as the crowning distinction of all Local and National Assemblies, in their capacity as forerurmers of the Universal House of Justice, that Bahá’u’lláh Himself subordinates His personal inclination and wish to the all-compelling force of its demands and implications. “God is My Witness!” He thus explains: “were it not contrary to the Law of God, I would have kissed the hand of My would-be murderer, and would cause him to inherit My earthly goods. I am restrained, however, by the binding Law laid down in the Book, and am Myself bereft of all worldly possessions.”

Small wonder, therefore, that the Author of the Baha 1 Revelation should have chosen to associate the name and the title of that House, which is to be the crowning glory of His administrative institutions, not with forgiveness but with justice, to have made justice the only basis and the permanent foundation of His Most Great Peace, and to have proclaimed it in His Hidden Words as “the best beloved of all things”

in His sight’ snoem EFFENDI (A.D.J. 19, 22, 24)

ANIMALS

The true seeker. should show kindness to animals, how much more unto his fellow-man, to‘him who is endowed with the power of utterance.

BAHA’U’LLAI-1 (K.I. 194)

[Page 23]KINDLINESS 23

The physical sensibilities and instincts are common to animal and man . . . the poor animals cannot speak . . . therefore one must be very considerate towards animals and show greater kindness towards them than to man. Educate the children in their infancy in such a way that they may become increasingly kind and merciful to the animals.

‘ABnu’L-BAHA (T.A.B.)

ASSOCIATION

Cgonsort with all men, O people of Bahá, in a spirit of friendliness and fellowship.

BAH.ll’U’LLAH (E.S.W. 15)

Do not be satisfied until each one with whom you are concerned is to you as a member of your family. Regard each one either as a father, or as a brother, or as a sister, or as a mother, or as a child. If you can attain to this, your difficulties will vanish; you will know what to do.

When you love a member of your family or a compatriot, let it be with a ray of the Infinite Love! Let it be in God, and for God! Wherever you find the attributes of God love that person, whether he be of your family, or of another. Shed the light of boundless love on every human being whom you meet.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 92, P.T. 33)

BAD LANDUAGE

T It behoveth every man to blot out the trace of every idle word from the tablet of his heart.

Defile not thy tongue with cursing or execrating anyone, and guard your eyes against that which is not worthy.

The tongue is for mentioning that which is good; pollute it not with evil speech. God hath forgiven ye'that which is

[Page 24]24 THE PATTERN or BAHA'I LIFE

past; hereafter ye must all speak that which is befitting. Avoid“ execration, reviling and that which is aggravating to man.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. ll, T.B. 90, B.W.F. 208)

CHARITY

Charity is beloved and acceptable before God, and is accounted the chief among all good deeds. Indeed, this blessed word is, in this connection, a sun among words. Blessed is he who prefers his brother before himself; such an one is of the people of Bahá.

They who are possessed of riches, must have the utmost regard for the poor, for great is the honour destined by God for those poor who are steadfast in patience. . . . There is no honour, except what God may please to bestow, that can compare tothis honour. Great is the blessedness awaiting the poor that endure patiently and conceal their sufferings, and well is it with the rich who bestow their riches on the needy and prefer them before themselves. ’

Bahá’u’lláh (T.B. 57, G.W.B. 202)

When a person performs a good action, although it is praiseworthy, if it is not caused by the love and knowledge of God, it is imperfect.

‘ABDU’L-BAH}. (S.A.Q. 349)

CHILDREN

Men and women must place a part of what they earn by trade, agriculture, or other business, in charge of a trustworthy person, to be spent in the education and instruction of the children. "

It is decreed that every father must educate his sons and daughters in learning and in writing and also in that which hath been ordained in the Tablet. . . . He who educates his

[Page 25]KINDLINESS, 25

son, or any other’s children, it ‘is as though he hath educated one of My children.

Schools must first train the children in the principles of religion, so that the Promise and the Threat, recorded in the Book of God, may prevent them from the things forbidden and adorn them with the mantle of the commandments; but this in such a measure that it may not injure the children by resulting in ignorant fanaticism and bigotry.

Bahá’u’lláh 29, 129, 53) Do all you can to encourage spirituality in the children.

‘It is the duty of all to look after the children. Those without children should, if possible, make themselves responsible for the education of a child.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. l 16, 91)

COMPASSION 3/ p ’ '\

To look after the sick is one of the greatest duties! Every

’\‘ soul who becomes sick, the other friends should certainly offer ‘ the life (of service) in the utmost kindness.

We should all visit the sick. When they are in sorrow and suffering it is a real help and benefit to have a friend come. Happiness is a great healer to those who are ill. In the cast it .is the custom to call upon the patient often and meet him individually. The people in the east show the utmost kindness and compassion to the sick and suffering. This has greater effect than the remedy itself. You must always have this thought of love and affection when you visit the ailing and

V’ ami°‘°d' ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 149, P.U.P. 199) X’

\c0 UR TESY

We, verily, have chosen courtesy, and made it the true mark of such as are nigh unto Him. Courtesy is, in truth, a

[Page 26]26 THE PATTERN OF Bahá’í LIFE

rairnentwhich fitteth all men, whether young or old. Well is ij;/with him that adorneth his temple therewith, and woe unto "him who is deprived of this great bounty.

O people of God! I exhort you to courtesy. Courtesy is, in the primary station, the Lord of all virtues. Blessed is he who is illumined with the light of courtesy, and is adorned with the mantle of uprightness! He who is endowed with courtesy is endowed with a great station.

,,.-~/‘""—”*~~—»~BAH§’U’LLAH (E.S.W. 50, T.B. 27)

, \‘ V

. CDEFENCE OF THE CAUSE s M,”

It is incumbent upon all men, each according to his ability to refute the arguments of those that have attacked the Faith

[Z

‘-~"i / If any man were to arise to defend, in his writings, the Cause of God against its assailants, such a man, however inconsiderable his share, shall be so honoured in the world to come that the Concourse on high would envy his glory. No pen can depict the loftiness of his station, neither can any tongue describe its splendour. For whosoever standeth firm and steadfast in this holy, this glorious, and exalted Revelation, such power shall be given him as to enable him -to face and withstand all that is in heaven and on earth.’

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 329, 330)

DETRACTION

O Son of Man! Breathe not the sins of others so long as thou art thyself a sinner. Shouldst thou transgress this command, accursed wouldst thou be.

The tongue I have designed for the mention of Me, defile it not with detraction. If the fire of self overcome you, remember your own faults and not the faults of My creatures,

of C3991,-...---..-«--~\_

[Page 27]KINDLINESS - 27

inasmuch as every one of you knoweth his own self better

‘ than he knoweth others.

0 Companion of My throne! Hear no evil, and see no evil; abase not thyself, neither sigh and weep. Speak no evil, that thou mayst not hear it spoken unto thee, and magnify not the faults of others that thine own faults may not appear great; and wish not the abasement of anyone, that thine own abase ment be not exposed. ‘ BAH ’U’LLAH (A.H.W. 27, P.H.W. 66, 44)

Beware lest ye offend the feelings of anyone, or sadden the heart of any person, or move the tongue in reproach of, and finding fault with anybody. . . . Beware, beware that any one rebuke or reproach a soul, though he may be an ill-wisher and

an ill-doer. ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 45)

DISPU TA TION

They that dispute, as prompted by their desires, are indeed wrapped in a palpable veil.

Beware lest ye contend with anyone, nay, strive to make him aware of the truth with kindly manner and most convincing exhortation. If your hearer respond, he will have responded to his own behoof, and if not, turn ye away from him, and set your faces towards God’s sacred court, the seat of resplendent holiness.

BAHA’U’.LLAH (E.S.W. 55, G.W.B. 279)

All these discords and disputes which we hear on all sides only tend to increase materiality.

fAJ3DU’L-BAHA (P.T. 122)

[Page 28]28 THE PATTERN or BAHA'I LIFE

DISSENSION

The Creed of God is for love and union; make it not the cause of discord and dis-union. . . . He hath forbidden dispute and strife with an absolute prohibition.

Nothing whatever can, in this Day, inflict a greater harm upon this Cause than dissension and strife, contention, estrangement and apathy among the loved ones of God.

Bahá’u’lláh (B.W.F. 209, G.W.B. 9)

O ye friends of God! Beware! Beware of differences! By differences the Temple of God is razed to its very foundation, and by ‘the blowing of the winds of disagreement the Blessed Tree is prevented from producing any fruit. By the intense cold of the diversity of opinions the rose-garden of unity is withered, and the fire of the love of God is extinguished.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 431) EQUITY

Beware lest ye prefer yourselves above your neighbours.

Be fair to yourselves and to others, that the evidences of justice may be revealed, through your deeds, among Our faithful servants.

Equity is the most fundamental among human virtues. The evaluation of all things must needs depend upon it.

Say! Observe equity in your judgment; ye men of understanding heart! He that is unjust in his judgment is destitute of the characteristics that distinguish man’s station.

Bahá’u’lláh (G;W.B. 315, A.D.J. 20, G.W.B. 203, 204)

FIDELITY __ The soul that hath remained faithful to the Cause of God, and stood unwaveringly firm in His Path shall, after his

[Page 29]KINDLINESS 29

ascension, be possessed of such power that all the worlds which

the Almighty hath created can benefit through him. Such a

soul provideth, at the bidding of the Ideal King and Divine Educator, the pure leaven that leaveneth the world of being, and furnisheth the power through which the arts and wonders of the world are made manifest. Consider how meal needeth leaven to be leavened with. Those souls that are the symbols

of detachment are the leaven of this world. )< FRIENDLINESS

BA ’U’LLAH (G.W.B. 161)

We love to see you at all times consorting in amity and concord within the paradise of My good-pleasure, and to inhale from your acts the fragrance of friendliness and unity, of loving kindness and fellowship. . . . We shall always be with you; if We inhale the perfume of your fellowship, Our heart will assuredly rejoice, for naught else can satisfy Us.

Show forbearance and benevolence and love to one another. Should any one among you be incapable of grasping a certain truth, or be striving to comprehend it, show forth, when conversing with him, a spirit of extreme kindliness and good-will. [Help him to see and recognise the truth, without esteeming yourself to be, in the least, superior to him, or to be possessed of greater endowments. '

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 315, 8)

GENEROSI TY The poor in your midst are My trust; guard ye My trust, and be not intent only on your own case.

If ye encounter one who is poor, treat him not disdainfully. Reflect upon that whereof ye were created. Every one of you was created of a sorry’ germ.

[Page 30]30 THE PATTERN OF BAHA'I LIFE

O Children sf Dust! Tell the rich of the midnight sighing of the poor, lest heedlessness lead them into the path of destruction, and deprive them of the Tree of Wealth. To give and to be generous are attributes of Mine; well is it with him that adorneth himself with My virtues.

Bahá’u’lláh (P.H.W. 54, E.S.W. 55, P.H.W. 49)

GOOD CHARACTER _ The companions of God are, in this day, the lump that

. must leaven the peoples of the world. They must show forth

such trustworthiness, such truthfulness and perseverance, such deeds and character that all mankind may profit by their example. =

The purpose of the one true God in manifesting Himself is to summon all mankind to truthfulness and sincerity, to piety and trustworthiness, to resignation and submissiveness to the will of God, to forbearance and kindliness, to uprightness and wisdom. His object is to array every man with the mantle of a saintly character, and to adorn him with the ornament of holy and goodly deeds.

The most vital duty, in this day, is to purify your characters, to correct your manners, and improve your conduct. The beloved of the Merciful must show forth such character and conduct among His creatures, that the fragrance of their

‘holiness may be shed upon the whole world, and may quicken

the dead, inasmuch as the purpose of the Manifestation of God and the dawning of the limitless lights of the Invisible is to educate the souls of men,‘ and refine the character of every living man. '

Good character is, verily, the best mantle for men on the part of God ; by this God adorns the temples of His friends. By My life, the light of good character surpasses the light of the

[Page 31]KINDLINESS 31

sun and its effulgence. He who attains thereto is accounted as the essence of men. Upon this the honour and glory of the world are based and are dependent. Good character is the means of guiding men to the right path and the great message.

Bahá’u’lláh (A.D._]. 19, G.W.B. 299, A.D.J. 21, T.B. 7)

GOSSIP

They have preferred to have their heads cut off rather than utter one unseemly word;

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 74)

According to the direct command of God we are forbidden to utter slander.

Remember above all the teaching of Bahá’u’lláh concerning gossip and unseemly talk about others. Stories repeated about others are seldom good. A silent tongue is safest. Even good may be harmful if spoken at the wrong time or to the wrong person.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (W.T. 9, A.B.L. 131 )

HONES TY

This Wronged One enjoineth on you honesty and piety. Blessed the city that shineth by their light. Through them man is exalted, and the door of security is unlocked before the face of all creation.

They who dwell within the Tabernacle of God, and are established’ upon the seat of everlasting glory, will refuse, though they be dying of hunger, to stretch their - hands and seize unlawfully the property of their neighbour, however vile and worthless he may be.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 23, A.D.J. 19)

[Page 32]32 THE PATTERN OF Bahá’í LIFE

HOSPITALITY Welcome all with the light of oneness.

When a man turns his face to God, he finds sunshine everywhere. All men are his brothers. Let not conventionality cause you to seem cold and unsympathetic when you meet strange people from other countries. . . . Be kind to the strangers. . . . Help to make them feel at home; find out where they are staying, ask if you may render them any service; try to make their lives a little happier. In this way, even if sometimes what you at first suspected should be true, still go out of your way to be kind to them—+this ‘kindness will help them to become better. After all, why should any foreign people be treated as strangers 3’ Let those who meet you know, without your proclaiming the fact, that you are indeed a Bahá’í. Put into practice the teaching of Bahá’u’lláh, that of kindness to all nations. Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone, let your heart burn with loving-kindness for all who may cross your path.

‘ABDU’L-BAH}. (P.T. 15)

JUSTICE T

O Son of Spirit! The best beloved of all things in My sight is Justice.; turn not away therefrom if thou desirest Me, and neglect it not that I may confide in thee. By its aid thou shalt see with thine own eyes and not through the eyes of others, and shalt know of thine own knowledge and not through the knowledge of thy neighbour.

He will never deal unjustly with any one, neither will He task a soul beyond its power.

The light of men is Justice ; quench it not with the contrary winds of oppression and tyranny. The purpose of justice is the appearance of unity among men.

[Page 33]2‘ Bahá’í.”

KINDLINESS 33

O Son of Spirit! Know thou of a truth: He that biddeth

men be just and himself committeth iniquity is not of Me, even '

though he bear My name.

Be vigilant, that ye may not do injustice to any one, be it to the extent of a grain of mustard seed. Tread ye the path of justice, for this, verily, is the straight path.

The canopy of existence resteth upon the pole of justice, and not of forgiveness, and the life of mankind dependeth on justice and not on forgiveness. 2

BA‘ ’U’LLAH (A.H.W. 2, G.W.B. 106, A.D._]. 23, A.H.W. 28, G.W.B. 250, A.D.J. 24)

Each man has been placed in a post of honour, which he must not desert. A humble workman who commits an injustice is as much to blame as a renowned tyrant. Thus we all have our choice between justice and injustice.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (RT. 160)

KI NDLI NES S

A kindly tongue is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the bread of the spirit, it clotheth the words with meaning, it is the fountain of the light of wisdom and understanding.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 289)

Do not distress or deny anyone by saying “He is not a He will be known by his deeds. There are no secrets among Bahá’ís; a Bahá’í does not hide anything.

‘ABnu’L-B;.H.4 (A.B.L. 100)

LOVE FOR MAN ,

Each sees in the other the beauty of God reflected in the soul, and finding this point of similarity, they are attracted to one another in love. This love will make all men the waves of

X

[Page 34]34 THE PATTERN or Bahá’í LIFE

’/ r

/ . one sea, this love will make them all the stars of one heaven,

and the fruits of one tree. This love will bring the realisation of true accord, the foundation of real unity.

Love is unlimited, boundless, infinite! Material things are limited, circumscribed, finite. You cannot adequately express infinite Love by limited means. The perfect love needs an unselfish instrument, absolutely freed from fetters of every kind. The love of family is limited; the tie of blood relationship is not the strongest bond. Frequently members of the same family disagree, and even hate each other. Patriotic love is finite; the love of one’s country causing hatred of all others, is not perfect love! Compatriots also are not free from quarrels amongst themselves. The love of race is limited: there is some union here, but it is insufficient. Love must be free from boundaries! To love our own race may mean hatred of all others, and even people of the same race often dislike each other. Political love also is much bound up with hatred of one party for another; this love is very limited and uncertain. The love of community of interest in service is likewise fluctuating; frequently competitions arise, which lead to jealousy, and at length hatred replaces love. All these ties of love are imperfect. It is clear that limited material ties are insufficient to adequately express the universal love. The great unselfish love for humanity is bounded by none of these imperfect, serni-selfish bonds; this is the one perfect love, possible to all mankind, and can only be achieved by the power of i the Divine Spirit.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 180, 36)

LOYALTY

A just king is the shadow of God on earth. All should seek shelter under the shadow of his justice, and rest in the shade of his favour.

[Page 35]KINDLINESS 35

In. every country or government where any of this community reside, they must behave towards that government with faithfulness, trustfulness and truthfulness.

Regard for the rank of sovereigns is divinely ordained, as is clearly attested by the words of the Prophets of God and His chosen ones. He who is the Spirit (Jesus) was asked : “O Spirit of God! Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar or not?” And He made reply: “Yea, render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” He forbade it not. These two sayings are, in the estimation of men of insight, one and the same, for if that which belonged to Caesar had not come from God, He would have forbidden it.

BAHA’u’u.AH (P.D.C. 81, T.B. 85, E.S.W. 89) MALICE

0 My Servant! Purge thy heart from malice and, free from envy, enter the divine court of holiness.

Backbiting quencheth the light of the heart and extinguisheth the life of the soul.

The tongue is a smouldering fire, and excess of speech a deadly poison. Material fire consumeth the body, whereas the fire of the tongue devoureth both heart and soul. The force of the former lasteth but for a time, whilst the effects of the latter endure a century.

Bahá’u’lláh (P.H.W. 42, K.I. 193)

MEEKNESS

If any differences arise amongst you, behold Me standing before your face, and overlook the faults of one another for My name’s sake, and as a token of your love for My manifest and resplendent Cause.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 315)

[Page 36]36 THE PATTERN OF BAHA'I LIFE

The confirmations of the Spirit are all those powers and gifts which some are born with and which men sometimes call genius, but for which others have to strive with infinite pains. They come to that man or woman who accepts his life with radiant acquiescence. . ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 126) MERCY ‘

O Son of Man! If thine eyes be turned toward mercy, forsake the things that profit thee, and cleave unto that which will profit mankind. And if thine eyes be turned towards justice, choose thou for thy neighbour that which thou

choosest for thyself. Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 29)

OBEDIE N CE

To none is given the right to act in any manner that would‘

run counter to the considered‘ views of those who are in authority.

What mankind needeth in this day is obedience unto them that are in authority, and faithful adherence to the cord of wisdom.

Lay not on any soul a load which ye would not wish to be

laid upon you, and desire not for any one the things ye would not desire for yourselves.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 241, 207, 128)

The law must reign and not the individual; thus will the world become a place of beauty and ‘true brotherhood will be

”°ali‘°‘°d° ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 132).

PARENTS

The journeys in the path of Love have been counted as four; from the creatures to the True One; from the True One

[Page 37]KINDLINESS 37

to the creatures; from the creatures to the creatures; from the True One to the True One. Consider how you are the first in relation to your son, and the last in relation to your father; how, outwardly, you bear evidence of the inward mysteries which, as a divine gift, are deposited within you.

Bahá’u’lláh (S.B.S. 166)

Be the son of thy father and be the fruit of that tree. Be a son that hath been born of his soul and heart’ and not only of the water and clay. A real son is such an one as hath branched from the spiritual part of a man.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 342)

POLITICS

Of old it hath been revealed: “Love of one’s country is an element of the Faith of God.” The Tongue of Grandeur hath, however, in the day of His manifestation proclaimed : “It is not his to boast who loveth his country, but it is his who

loveth the world.” Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 95)

The “Blessed Perfection hath forbidden the believers to interfere at all with political problems. He hath even pro-l hibited the believers from discussing political affairs.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 493)

In regard to practical participation in democratic elections, the Guardian has written as follows:

‘ ‘The friends may vote, if they can do it without identifying themselves with one party or another. To enter the arena of party politics is surely detrimental to the best interests of the Faith and will harm the Cause. It remains for individuals to so use their right to vote as to keep aloof from party politics, and always bear in mind that they are voting on the merits of

[Page 38]38 ‘ THE PATTERN 01? BAHA'I LIFE

the individual, rather than because he belongs to one party or another.” SHOGHI EFFENDI (B.P. 13)

SACRIFICE

To have sacrificed my life for the Manifestation of Thy self, to have offered up my soul in the path of the Revealers of Thy Wondrous Beauty, is to have sacrificed my spirit for Thy Spirit, my being for Thy Being, my glory for Thy Glory. It

is as if I had offered up all these things for Thy sake, and for

the sake of Thy loved ones. Though my body be pained by the trials that befall me from Thee, though it be afflicted by the revelation of Thy Decree, yet my soul rejoiceth at having partaken of the waters of Thy Beauty and at having attained the shores of the ocean of Thine eternity. Doth it beseem a lover to flee from his beloved, or to desert the object of his heart’s desire? Nay, we all believe in Thee, and eagerly hope to enter Thy presence.

Bahá’u’lláh (P.M. 95)

The host took the guest’s place and died in his stead. ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 146)

SECLUSION

A solitary life and severe discipline do not meet God’s approval. Deprive not yourselves of that which is created for you.

Seclude yourselves in the stronghold of My love. This, truly, is the seclusion that befitteth you, could ye but know it. He that secludeth himself in his house is indeed as one dead. It behoveth man to show forth that which will benefit mankind. He that bringeth forth no fruit is fit for the fire.

Bahá’u’lláh (T.B. 56, E.S.W. 49)

[Page 39]I

KINDLINESSi 39

SELF-EXPRESSION

0 My Servant! Thou art even as a finely tempered sword concealed in the darkness of its sheath and its value hidden from the artificer’s knowledge. Wherefore come forth from

the sheath of self and desire that thy worth may be made

resplendent and manifest unto all the world. Bahá’u’lláh (P.H.W. 72)

No soul must either publicly or privately utter one word against or in contradiction to the general teachings.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 432) At the very root of the Cause lies the principle of the

\

e undoubted right of the individual to self-expression, his

freedom to declare his conscience and set forth his views, be it as elected representative of his community or on his own account at the feasts.

SHOGHI EFFENDI (B.P. 32) SERVICE

That one indeed is a man who, to-day, dedicateth himself to the service of the entire human race.

O people of God! Do not busy yourselves in your own concerns; let your thoughts be fixed upon that which will rehabilitate the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts

and Souls of mm BAIIA’U’T.LAH (G.W.B. 250. 93) Service in love for mankind is unity with God. He who

serves has already entered the kingdom and is seated at the right hand of his Lord.

Service is prayer. Rise and serve the power of God. The service of the friends belongs to God, and not to them.

‘ABDU’iL-BAHA (P.T. 177, 168, T.A.B. 161)

[Page 40]40 THE PATTERN OF BAHA'I LIFE

SEX

Enter yeinto wedlock, that after you another may arise in your stead. We, verily, have forbidden you lechery, and not

that which is conducive to fidelity. Have ye clung unto the i

promptings of your nature, and cast behind your back the statutes of God? Fear ye God, and be not of the foolish. But for man, who, on My earth, would remember Me, and how could My attributes and My names be revealed ?

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 49)

Sex, in its relationship to the exigencies of the physical plane, has no connection with the spirit.

In the sight of God sex makes no difference. He or she is greatest who is nearest to God.

If women received the same educational advantages as men, the result would demonstrate the equality of capacity of both for scholarship.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 80, 108, P.T. 164) SYMPA THY

O Son of Man! Deny not My servant should he ask anything from thee, for his face is My face; be then abashed before Me.

Let your principal concern be to rescue the fallen from the slough of impending extinction, and to help him embrace the ancient Faith of God.

BA1-IA’U’LLAH (A.H.W. 30, G.W.B. 316)

TRUSTWORTHINESS

Deal not treacherously with the substance of your neighbour. Be ye trustworthy on earth, and withhold not from the poor the things given unto you by God through His grace. He, verily, will bestow upon you the double of what ye possess.

[Page 41]KINDLINESS 41

Know thou for a certainty that whoso disbelieveth in God is neither trustworthy nor truthful. This indeed is the truth, the undoubted truth. He that acteth treacherously toward God will also act treacherously towards his king. Nothing whatever can deter such a man from evil, nothing can hinder him from betraying his neighbour, nothing can induce him to walk uprightly.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 54, G.W.B. 232)

Show ye anendeavour that all the nations and communities of the world, even the enemies, put their trust, assurance and hope in you; that if a person falls into errors for a hundred thousand times he may yet turn his face to you, hopeful that you will forgive his sins; for he must not become hopeless, neither grieved nor despondent.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (T.A.B. 436) TRUTHFULNESS

Good speech and truthfulness are, in loftiness of position and rank, like unto the sun which hath risen from the horizon of the heaven of knowledge. >

They who are the people of God have no ambition except to revive the world, to ennoble its life, and regenerate its peoples. Truthfulness and goodwill have, at all times, marked their relation with all men. Their outward conduct is but a reflection of their inward life, and their inward life a mirror of their outward conduct. if

BAHA’u’LL.4H (T.B. 12, G.W.B. 270) i

Truthfulness is the foundation of all human virtues. Without_ truthfulness, progress and success in all of the worlds of God are ‘impossible for any soul. When this holy attribute is established in man, all the divine qualities will also be

a°q“i"°d' ‘ABDU’L-BAH}. (T.A.B. 459)

[Page 42]42 THE PATTERN OF BAHA'I LIFE

VENGEANCE Vengeance . . . is . . . blameworthy because through vengeance no good. result is gained by the avenger. So if a

“man strike another and he who is struck takes revenge by

returning the blow, what advantage will he gain E’ Will this be a balm for his wound or a remedy for his pain? No, God forbid! In truth the two actions are the same, both are injuries; the only difference is that one occurred first, and the other afterwards. Therefore, if he who is struck forgives, nay, if he acts in a manner contrary to that which has been used towards him, this is laudable.

When Christ said: “Whosoever shall strike thee on the right cheek, turn to him the left one also,” it was for the

purpose of teaching men not to take personal revenge. He '

did not mean that if a wolf should fall upon a flock of sheep and wish to destroy it, that the wolf should be encouraged to

do so. No, if Christ had known that a wolf had entered the

fold and was about to destroy the sheep, most certainly he would have prevented it.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (S.A.Q_. 305, 309) VIOLENCE . A There is no glory for him that committeth disorder in the earth after it hath been made so good. ‘

Spread not disorder in the land, and shed not the blood of any one, and consume not the substance of others wrongfully, neither follow every accursed prattler.

BAuA’p9LLAH (E.S.W. 24, 25)

Fighting, and the employment of force, even for the right i ‘cause, will not bring about good results. The oppressed who

have right on their side must not take that right by force; the evil would continue. Hearts must be changed. '

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 93)

[Page 43]KINDLINESS 43

WAR

I charge you that when a thought of war comes oppose it by a stronger thought of peace. A thought of hatred must be destroyed by a more powerful thought of love. Thoughts of war bring destruction to all harmony, well-being, restfulness and content. Thoughts of love are constructive of brotherhood, peace, friendship and happiness.

How is it possible for men to fight from morning until evening, killing each other, shedding the blood of their fellowmen; and for what object? To gain possession of a part of the earth! Even the animals, when they fight, have an immediate and more reasonable cause for their attacks. . . . The highest of created beings fighting to obtain the lowest form of matter, earth! Land belongs not to one people, but to all people. This earth is not man’s home, but his tomb.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 29, 28)

[Page 44]RADIAN CE

UNITY

The consciousness of any division or cleavage in the ranks of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh is alien to its very purpose, principles, and ideals. Once its members have fully recognised the claim of its Author, and, by identifying themselves with its Administrative Order, accepted unreservedly the principles and laws embodied in its teachings, every diflerentiation of class, creed, or colour must automatically be obliterated, and never be allowed, under any pretext, and however great the

pressure of events or of public opinion, to reassert itself, If

any discrimination is at all to be tolerated, it should be a discrimination not against, but rather in favour of the minority, be it racial or otherwise. Unlike the nations and peoples of the earth, be they of the East or of the West, democratic or authoritarian, communist or capitalist, whether belonging to the Old World or the New, who either ignore, trample upon or extirpate the racial, religious or political minorities within the sphere of their jurisdiction, every organised community enlisted under the banner of Bahá’u’lláh should feel it to be its first and inescapable obligation to nurture, encourage, and safeguard every minority belonging to any faith, race, class or nation within it. So great and Vital is this principle that in such circumstances as when an equal number of ballots have been cast in an election, or where the qualifications for any of-lice are balanced as between the various races, faiths or nationalities within the community, priority should unhesitatingly be accorded the party representing the minority, and this for no other reason except to stimulate and encourage it, and afford it an opportunity to further the interests of the community. O In the light of this principle, and bearing in mind the extreme desirability of having the minority elements

44 [Page 45]RADIANCE - 45

participate and share responsibility in the conduct of Bahá’í activity, it should be the duty of every Bahá’í community so to arrange its affairs that in cases where individuals belonging to the divers minority elements within it are already qualified and fulfil the necessary requirements, Bahá’í representative institutions, be they Assemblies, Conventions, Conferences or Committees, may have represented on them as many of these divers elements, racial or otherwise, as possible. The adoption of such a course, and faithful adherence to it, would not only be a source of inspiration and encouragement to those elements that are numerically small and inadequately represented, but would demonstrate to the world at large the universality and representative character of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, and the freedom of His followers from the taint of those prejudices which have already wrought such havoc in the domestic

affairs, as well as the foreign relationships, of the nations.

Of the spiritual prerequisites of success, which constitute the bedrock on which the security of all plans, projects, and schemes, must ultimately rest, the following stand out as pre-eminent and vital. Upon the extent to which these basic requirements are met, and the manner in which the believers fulfil them in their individual lives, administrative activities, and social relationships, must depend the measure of the manifold blessings which the All-Bountiful Possessor can vouchsafe to them all. These requirements are none other than a high sense of moral rectitude in their social and administrative activities, absolute chastity in their individual lives, and complete freedom from prejudice in their dealings with peoples of a different race, class, creed or colour.

These are the ideals which the believers must, individually, and through concerted action, strive to promote, in both their private and public lives, ideals which are the chief propelling forces that can most effectively accelerate the march of their

[Page 46]46 THE PATTERN or Bahá’í' LIFE

institutions, plans, and enterprises, that can guard the honour and integrity of their Faith, and subdue any obstacles that may confront it in the future.

SHOGHI EFFENDI (A.D.J. 29, 18, 19)

AD VERSI TY

If tribulation touch thee for My sake, call thou to mind My ills and troubles, and remember My banishment and imprisonment.

But for the tribulations which are sustained in Thy path,

how could Thy true lovers be recognised; and were it not for

the trials which are borne for love of Thee, how could the station of such as yearn for Thee be revealed?

Be not troubled in poverty nor confident in riches, for poverty is followed by riches, and riches are followed by poverty. Yet to be poor in all save God is a wondrous gift, belittle not the value thereof, for in the end it will make thee

rid‘ in G°d° Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 313, E.S.W. 95, . P.H.W. 51) ATTRACTION

Whoso ariseth among you to teach the Cause of his Lord, let him, before all else, teach his own self, that his speech may attract the hearts of them that hear him. Unless he teacheth his own self, the words of his mouth will not influence the

h r h k . ea” ° t C 3“ er Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 277)

The foundation of Bahá’u’lláh is love. . . . You must have infinite love for each other, each preferring the other before himself. The people must be so attracted to you that they will exclaim: “What happiness exists among you !” and will see in your faces the lights of the kingdom; then in wonderment they will turn to you and seek the cause of your happiness. You must give the message through action and deed, not alone

[Page 47]RADIANCE . 47

by word. Word must be conjoined with deed. You must love your _friend better than yourself; yes, be willing to sacrifice yourself. . . . I desire that you be ready to sacrifice everything for each other, even life itself. May everyone point to you and ask: “Why are these people so happy?” I want you to be happy, to laugh, smile and rejoice in order that others may be made happy by you.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 213)

CAPACITY

Man must seek capacity and develop readiness. As long as he lacks susceptibility to divine influences he is incapable of reflecting the light and assimilating its benefits. Sterile soil will produce nothing even if the cloud of mercy pours rain upon it a thousand years. We must make the soil of our hearts receptive and fertile by tilling, in order that the rain of divine mercy may refresh them and bring forth roses and hyacinths of heavenly planting.

As long as we lack susceptibility, the beauties and bounties of God cannot penetrate. During thy supplications to God and thy reciting, “Thy name is my healing,” consider how thine heart is cheered, thy soul delighted by the spirit of the love of God and thy mind attracted to the Kingdom of God! By these attractions one’s ability and capacity increase. When the vessel is widened the water increaseth and when the thirst grows the bounty of the cloud becomes agreeable to the taste of man. This is the mystery of supplication and the wisdom of stating one’s wants.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 143)

DEA TH

Death proffereth unto every confident believer the cup that is life indeed. It bestoweth joy, and is the bearer of gladness. It conferreth the gift of everlasting life.

[Page 48]48 THE PATTERN or BAHA'I LIFE

Thou art My dominion and My dominion perisheth not, wherefore fearest thou thy perishing? Thou art My light and My light shall never ‘be extinguished, why dost thou dread extinction? Thou art My glory and My glory fadeth not; thou art My robe and My robe shall never be outworn. Abide then in thy love for Me, that thou mayest find Me in the

realm of glory. Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 345, A.H.W. 14)

DISTINCTION

O army of God! Through the protection and help vouchsafed by the Blessed Beauty ye must conduct yourselves in such a manner that ye may stand out distinguished and brilliant as the sun among other souls. Should any one of you enter a city, he should become a centre of attraction by reason of his sincerity, his faithfulness and love, his honesty and fidelity, his truthfulness and loving-kindness towards all the peoples of the world, so that the people of that city may cry out and say: “This man is unquestionably a Bahá’í, for his manners, his behaviour, his conduct, his morals, his nature and disposition reflect the attributes of the Bahá’ís.” Not until ye attain this station can ye be said to have been faithful to the Covenant and Testament of God.

I desire distinction for you. The Bahá’ís must be distinguished from others of humanity. But this distinction must not depend upon wealth—that they should become more

affluent than other people. I do not desire for you financial‘

distinction. It is not an ordinary distinction I desire; not scientific, commercial, industrial distinction. For you I desire spiritual distinction; that is, you must become eminent and distinguished in morals. In the love of God you must become distinguished from all else. You must become distinguished for loving humanity; for unity and accord; for love and justice. In brief, you must become distinguished in all the virtues of

[Page 49]RADIANGE 49

the human world; for faithfulness and sincerity; for justice and fidelity; for firmness and steadfastness ; for philanthropic deeds and service to the human world ; for love toward every human being; for unity and accord with all people; for removing prejudices and promoting international peace. Finally, you must become distinguished for heavenly illumination and acquiring the bestowals of God. I desire this distinction for you. This must be the point of distinction

am°“g ”°“' ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.D._I. 21, P.U.P. 195)

EQUALITY _

In the estimation of God all men are equal. There is no distinction or preference for any soul, in the realm of His justice and equity.

God did not make these divisions; these divisions have their origin in man himself. Therefore, as they are against the plan and purpose of God they are false and imaginary.

This variety in forms and colouring, which is manifest in all the kingdoms, is according to creative wisdom and hath a divine purpose.

The diversity in the human family should be the cause of love and harmony, as it is in music where many different notes blend together in the making of a perfect chord.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.D._]. 31, 32) FEAR OF GOD

That which prevents and guards men both outwardly and inwardly (from base deeds) is the fear of God.

The fear of God hath ever been the prime factor in the education of His creatures. Well is it with them that have attained thereunto !.

Admonish men to fear God. By God! This fear is the chief commander of the army of Thy Lord. Its hosts are a

[Page 50]50 THE PATTERN or BAHA'I LIFE

praiseworthy character and goodly deeds. Through it have the cities of men’s hearts been opened throughout the ages and centuries, and the standards of ascendancy and triumph raised above all other standards.

The fear of God is the weapon that can render him (the helper of God) victorious, the primary instrument whereby he can achieve his purpose. The fear of God is the shield that defendeth His Cause, the buckler that enableth His people to attain the victory. It is a standard that no man can abase, a force that no power can rival. By its aid, and by the leave of Him who is the Lord of Hosts, they that have drawn nigh unto God have been able to subdue and conquer the citadel of the hearts of men.

Bahá’u’lláh (T.B. 33, E.S.W. 27, 136, G.W.B. 272) GUIDANCE

Gird up the loins of thine endeavour, that haply thou mayest guide thy neighbour to the law of God, the Most Merciful. Such an act, verily excelleth all other acts in the sight of God, the All-Possessing, the Most High.

Let your acts be a guide unto all mankind, for the professions of most men, be they high or low, differ from their conduct. It is through your deeds that ye can distinguish yourselves from others. Through them the brightness of your light can be shed upon the whole earth.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 339, 305)

HAPPINESS

The Cause of God hath come as a token of His grace. Happy are they who act; happy are they who understand; happy the man that hath clung unto the truth, detached from all that is in the heavens and all that is on earth!

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 139)

[Page 51]RADIANCE 51 a

Man is, in reality, a spiritual being, and only when he lives in the spirit is he truly happy.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 72)

H OLI NESS

O Son of Glory! Be swift in the path of holiness, and enter the heaven of communion with Me. Cleanse thy heart with the burnishof the spirit, and hasten to the court of the

M°S‘ High‘ Bahá’u’lláh (P.H.W. 3)

IMAGE OF GOD

The honour of man is through the attainment of the knowledge of God; his happiness is from the love of God; his joy is in the glad-tidings of God; his greatness is dependent upon his servitude to God. The highest development of man is his entrance into the divine kingdom; and the outcome of this human existence is the nucleus and essence of eternal life. . . . While possessing physical life he should lay hold of the life spiritual, and together with bodily comforts and happiness, he should enjoy divine pleasures and content. Then is man worthy of the title man; then will he be “after the image and likeness of God,” for the image of the Merciful consists of the attributes of the heavenly kingdom. If no fruits of the kingdom appear in the garden of his soul, man is not in the image and likeness of God, but if those fruits are forthcoming he becomes the recipient of ideal bestowals and is enkindled with the fire of the love of God. If his morals become spiritual in character, his aspirations heavenly and his actions conformable to the will of God, man has attained the image and likeness of his Creator; otherwise he is the image and likeness of satan. Therefore His Holiness Christ hath said: “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” '

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 329)

[Page 52]52 THE PATTERN OF PAHA’i LIFE

INSIGHT

O Son of earth! Wouldst thou have Me, seek none other than Me; and Wouldst thou gaze upon My beauty, close thine eyes to the world and all that is therein; for My will and the will of another than Me, even as fire and water, cannot dwell together in one heart.

BAH ’U’LLAH (P.H.W. 31) JOY

Whoso keepeth the commandments of God shall’ attain everlasting felicity.

O Son of man! Sorrow not save that thou art far from Us. Rejoice not save that thou art drawing near and returning unto Us.

0 My servants! Sorrow not if, in these days and on this earthly plane, things contrary to your wishes have been ordained and manifested by God, for days of blissful joy, of heavenly delight, are assuredly in store for you.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 289, A.H.W. 35, G.W.B. 329)

Rejoice, for the heavenly table is prepared for you. Rejoice, for the angels of heaven are your assistants and helpers. Rejoice, for the glance of the Blessed Beauty Bahá’u’lláh is directed upon you. Rejoice, for Bahá’u’lláh is your protector. Rejoice, for the glory everlasting is destined for you. Rejoice, for the life eternal is awaiting you.

All the sorrow and grief that exist come from the world of matter—the spiritual world bestows only the joy! ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 209, RT.‘ 110) KNOWLEDGE

We have decreed, O people, that the highest and last end of all learning be the recognition of Him Who is the Object of all knowledge.

[Page 53]RADIANCE 53

So great shall be the discernment of (the true) seeker that he will discriminate between truth and falsehood, even as he doth distinguish the sun from shadow.

Arts, crafts, and sciences uplift the world of being, and are conducive to its exaltation. Knowledge is as wings to man’s life, and a ladder for his ascent. Its acquisition is incumbent upon everybody.

Respect ye the divines and learned amongst you, they whose conduct accords with their professions. . . . They who disregard and neglect the divines and learned that live amongst them—these have truly changed the favour with which God hath favoured them.

It is incumbent upon thee, in this day, to arise with celestial power and dissipate, with the aid of knowledge, the doubts of the peoples of the world, so that all men may be sanctified, and direct their steps towards the Most Great Ocean and cleave fast unto that which God hath purposed.

BAHA’U’LL.é’.H (E.S.W. 129, K.I. 197, E.S.W. 26, G.W.B. 128, E.S.W. 111)

Knowledge is love. Study, listen to exhortations, think, try to understand the wisdom and greatness of God. The soil must be fertilised before the seed is sown.

Day and night you must strive that you may attain to the significances of the heavenly kingdom, perceive the signs of divinity, acquire certainty of knowledge and realise that this world has a creator, a vivifier, a provider, an architectknowing this through proofs and evidences and not through susceptibilities—nay, rather, through decisive arguments and real vision; that is to say, visualising it as clearly as the outer eye beholds the sun. -In this way may you behold the presence

[Page 54]54 THE PATTERN or BAHA'I LIFE

of God and attain to the knowledge of the holy, divine ma“if°“a‘i°”S' ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (S.B.S. 252, P.U.P. 222)

LIFE

Whosoever quickens one soul in this Cause is like unto one.

quickening all the servants.

0 My friend! Rend asunder the veil of heedlessness, that from behind the clouds thou mayest emerge resplendent and array all things with the apparel of life.

O friends! Be not careless of the virtues with which ye have been endowed, neither be neglectful of your high destiny. . . . Ye are the stars of the heaven of understanding, the breeze that stirreth at the break of day, the soft-flowing waters upon which must depend the very life of all men, the letters inscribed upon His sacred roll.

Bahá’u’lláh (T.B. 145, P.H.W. 73, A.D.]. 63)

Life in man should be like a flame, warming all with whom it comes in contact. ' ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 93)

LOVE OF GOD

For every one of you his paramount duty is to choose for himself that on which no others may infringe and none usurp from him. Such a thing . . . is the love of God, could ye but

P°’°°i"° it‘ Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 261)

In the world of existence there is no more powerful magnet than the magnet of love.

If the hearts of the people become devoid of the Divine Grace-—the Love of God—they wander in the desert of

[Page 55]RADIANCE 55

ignorance, descend to the depths of ruin and fall to the abyss of despair where there is no refiige. They are like insects living in the lowest plane.

‘ABDlU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 77, T.A.B. 526)

MED] TA TI ON

Through the faculty of meditation man attains to eternal life, through it he receives the breath of the Holy Spirit—the bestowals of the Spirit are given during reflection and meditation. a '

The meditative faculty is like a mirror; if you put it before earthly objects it will reflect the earthly objects. Therefore,

, if the spirit of man is contemplating earthly objects, he will

become informed of them. But if you turn the mirror of your spirit heavenwards, the heavenly constellations and the rays of the Sun of Reality will be reflected in your hearts, and the virtues of the Kingdom will be obtained.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 175, 176)

NEARNESS T0 GOD

‘The more pure and sanctified the heart of man becomes, the nearer it draws to God and the light of the Sun of Reality is revealed within it. This light sets hearts aglow with the fire of the love of God, opens in them the doors of knowledge and unseals the divine mysteries so that spiritual discoveries are made possible. All the prophets have drawn near to God through severance. We must emulate those holy souls and renounce our own wishes and desires. We must purify ourselves from the mire and soil of earthly contact until our hearts become as mirrors in clearness and the light of the most

great guidance reveals itself in them. ‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 14:2)

[Page 56]56 » THE PATTERN OF Bahá’í LIFE

PRAISE

Thou canst best praise Him if thou lovest His loved ones, and dost safeguard and protect His servants from the mischief

of the treacherous, that none may any longer oppress them.

Fall prostrate on your faces before God, and celebrate His praise in the daytime and in the night season.

BA:-xA’u’LLAH (G.W.B. 234, 33)

PRAYER He, verily, loveth the one that turneth towards Him.

Commune intimately with His Spirit, and be thou of the thankful.

Bring thyself to account each day ere thou art summoned to a reckoning. '

Intone, . 0 My servant, the verses of God that have been received by thee, as intoned by them who have drawn nigh unto Him, that the sweetness of thy melody may kindle thine own soul, and attract the hearts of all men. Whoso reciteth, in the privacy of his chamber, the verses revealed by God, the scattering angels of the Almighty shall scatter abroad the fragrance of the words uttered by his mouth, and shall cause the heart of every righteous man to throb. Though he may, at first, remain unaware of its effect, yet the virtue of the grace vouchsafed unto him must needs sooner or later exercise its influence upon his soul.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 291, 280, A.H.W. 31, G.W.B. 295)

While man prays he sees himself in the presence of God.

Strive that your actions day by day may be beautiful prayers. [Page 57]RADIANCE , 57

The act of supplication is the polish which erases all worldly desires. The delight of supplicating and entreating before God cuts one’s heart from the world.

Supplicate unto Him and beseech in the middle of the night and at early morn, just as a needy and captive one beseeches.

Man is eternally in a state of communion and prayer with the source of all good. The highest and most elevating state is the state of prayer. Prayer is communion with God.

The greatest happiness for the lover is to converse with his beloved, and the greatest gift for a seeker is to become familiar with the object of his longing.

The worshipper must pray with a detached spirit, unconditional surrender of the will, concentrated attention and a magnetic spiritual passion. His innermost being must be stirred with the ethereal breeze of holiness.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (S.B.S. 250, P.T. 81, S.B.S. 252, 254, 255, 254, 255)

RADIA NCE

Be ablaze as the fire, that ye may burn away the veils of heedlessness and set aglow, through the quickening energies of the Love of God, the chilled and wayward heart.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 322)

The All-loving God created man to radiate the Divine Light, and to illuminate the world by his words, action and life. ,

Believers must show their belief in their daily lives, so that the world might see the light shining in their faces. A bright and happy face cheers people on their way. If you are ' sad and pass a child who is laughing, the child seeing your face will cease to -laugh, not knowing why.

[Page 58]58 THE PATTERN OF BAHA'I LIFE

With hearts set aglow by the fire of the love of God and spirits refreshed by the food of the heavenly spirit you must go forth as the disciples, nineteen hundred years ago, quickening the hearts of men by the call of glad-tidings, the light of God in your faces, severed from everything save God. Therefore order your lives in accordance with the first principle of the divine teaching, which is love. Service to humanity is service to God. Let the love and light of the kingdom radiate through you until all who look upon you shall be illumined by its reflection. Be as stars, brilliant and sparkling, in the loftiness of their heavenly station. Do you appreciate the day in which you live? ‘

This is the century of the Blessed Perfection!

This is the cycle of the light of His beauty!

This is the consummate day of all the prophets!

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 113, A.B.L. 131, P.U.P. 6) RIGHTEOUSNESS Clothe thyself with the essence of righteousness, and let thine heart be afraid of none except God.

Cleave unto righteousness, O people of Bahá! This, verily, is the commandment which this wronged One hath given unto

you, and the first choice of His unrestrained Will for every one of you.

One righteous act is endowed with a potency that can so elevate the dust as to cause it to pass beyond the heaven of heavens. It can tear every bond asunder, and hath the power to restore the force that hath spent itself and vanished.

Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 323, 94, 287) SPIRITUALITY

Spirituality is the greatest of God’s gifts, and “Life Everlasting” means “Turning to God.”

[Page 59]RADIANCE 59

Be controlled by the attraction of the Beauty of God, that His remembrance may run as the spirit in thy blood, veins and limbs, and thus fill thee with the thoughts of the love of God.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.T. 112, T.A.B. 314-)

S TEADFA S TNE SS

Supremely lofty will be thy station, if thou remainest steadfast in the Cause of thy Lord. Towards Him are thy busy movements directed, and in Him is thy final resting place.

Nowhere doth your true and abiding glory reside except in your firm adherence unto the precepts of God, your wholehearted observance of His laws, your resolution to see that they do not remain unenforced, and to pursue steadfastly the

right °°““°' BAH.x:u’LL.4H (G.W.B. 246, 253)

The essential thing is firmness and steadfastness. ‘ABDU’L-BIAHA (T.A.B. 696)

THA NKFULNESS

The best way to thank God is to love one another.

Mere verbal thanksgiving is without effect. But real thankfulness is a cordial giving of thanks from the heart. When man in response to the favours of God manifests susceptibilities of conscience, the heart is happy, the spirit exhilarated. These spiritual susceptibilities are ideal thanksgiving.

To express his gratitude for the favours of God man must show forth praiseworthy actions. In response to these bestowals he must render good deeds, be self-sacrificing, loving the servants of God, forfeiting even life for them, showing kindness to all the creatures. He must be severed from this world, attracted to the kingdom of Abhá, the face radiant,

[Page 60]60 THE PATTERN or BAHA'I LIFE

the tongue eloquent, the ear attentive, striving day and night to attain the good-pleasure of God. Whatsoever he wishes to do must be in harmony with the good-pleasure of God. ' He must observe and see what is the will of God and act accordingly. There can be no doubt that such commendable deeds are thankfulness for the favours of God.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 231, 465)

UNITY

Be ye as the fingers of one hand, the members of one body.

So powerful is the light of Unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.

The tabernacle of Unity hath been raised, regard ye not one another as strangers. Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch.

It is incumbent upon every man, in this Day, to hold fast unto whatsoever will promote the interests, and exalt the station, of all nations and just governments.

The fundamental purpose animating the Faith of God and His Religion is to safeguard the interests and promote the unity of the human race, and to foster the spirit of love and friendship amongst men.

It behoveth thee to consecrate thyself to the Will of God. Whatsoever hath been revealed in His Tablets is but a reflection of His Will. So complete must be thy consecration that every trace of worldly desire will be washed from thine heart. This is the meaning of true unity.

We desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations, . . . that all nations should become one in faith, and allpmen as brothers; that the bonds of affection and unity

, ,4,4.__4_

[Page 61]. RADIANCE 61

between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of religion should cease, and differences of race be annulled.

BAHA’u’LLAn (G.W.B. 140,288, 218, 94, 215, 338, S.B.S. 109)

WISDOM

Say! The sword of wisdom is hotter than summer heat, and sharper than blades of steel, if ye do but understand.

O ye loved ones of God! Drink your fill from the wellspring of wisdom, and soar ye into the atmosphere of wisdom, and speak forth with wisdom and eloquence.

In this Day, we can neither approve the conduct of the fearful that seeketh to dissemble his faith, nor sanction the behaviour of the avowed believer that clamorously asserteth his allegiance to this Cause. Both should observe the dictates of wisdom, and strive diligently to serve the best interests of the Faith.

The wise are they that speak not unless they obtain a hearing, even as the cup-bearer who proffereth not his cup till he findeth a seeker, and the lover who giveth not out from the depths of his heart until he gazeth upon the beauty of his beloved. Whercupon sow the seeds of wisdom and knowledge in the pure soil of the heart, and keep them hidden, till the hyacinths of divine wisdom spring from the heart and not from mire and clay.

Bahá’u’lláh (E.S.W. 55, 99, G.W.B. 343, P.H.W. 36)

WORK

The best of men are they that earn a livelihood by their calling and spend upon themselves and upon their kindred for the love of God, the Lord of all worlds.

[Page 62]62 THE PATTERN or Bahá’í LIFE

Ye are the trees of My garden; ye must give forth goodly and wondrous fruits, that ye yourselves and others may profit therefrom. Thus it is incumbent on every one to engage in crafts and professions, for therein lies the secret of wealth, 0 men of understanding. It is made incumbent on every one of you to engage in some one occupation, such as arts, trades, and the like. We have made this——your occupation—identical with the worship of God, the True One. Waste not your time in idleness and indolence, and occupy yourselves with that which will profit yourselves and others beside yourself. . . . The most despised of men before God is he who sits and begs.

Bahá’u’lláh (P.H.W. 82, 80, 89 S.B.S. 134-)

All humanity must obtain a livelihood by sweat of the brow and bodily exertion; at the same time seeking to lift the burden of others, striving to be the source of comfort to souls, and facilitating the means of living. This in itself is devotion to God. But the energies of the heart must not be completely occupied with them. Though the mind is busy the heart must be attracted toward the Kingdom of God in order that the virtues of humanity may be attained from every direction and source.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (P.U.P. 182)

WORSHIP

Art is worship.

All effort and exertion put forth by man from the fullness of his heart is worship, if it is prompted by the highest motives

and the will to do service to humanity. This is worship : to serve mankind and to minister to the needs of the people.

‘ABDU’L-BAHA (A.B.L. 94, P.T. 176)

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Be generous in prosperity and thankful in adversity. Be worthy of the trust of thy neighbour and look upon him with

‘ a bright and friendly face. Be a treasure to the poor, an

admonisher to the rich, an answerer to the cry of the needy, a preserver of the sanctity of thy pledge. Be fair in thy judgment and guarded in thy speech. Be unjust to no man and show all meekness to all men. Be as a lamp unto them that walk in darkness, a joy to the sorrowfiil, a sea for the thirsty, a haven for the distressed, an upholder and defender of the victim of oppression. Let integrity and uprighteousness distinguish all thine acts. Be a home for the stranger, a. balm to the suffering, a tower of strength for the fugitive. Be eyes to the blind, and a guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be an ornament to the countenance of truth, a crown to the brow of fidelity, a pillar of the temple of righteousness, a breath of life to the body of mankind, an ensign of the hosts of justice, a luminary above -the horizon of virtue, a dew to the soil of the human heart, an ark on the ocean of knowledge, a sun in the heaven of bounty, a gem on the diadem of wisdom, a shining light in the firmament of thy generation, a fruit upon the tree of humility. ' Bahá’u’lláh (G.W.B. 285)

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Adversity Animals Association . . Attraction Bad Languag Body . . Capacity Charity Chastity Children Cleanliness . . Compassion . . Confession . . Courtesy Death Decency

Defence of Cause

Detraction . . Disputation Dissension Distinction . . Equality

quity . . Fear of God Fidelity Fortitude Friendliness Generosity . . Good Character Guidance Gossip Happiness Health Holiness Honesty . Hospitality Humility . . Image of God Insight ‘ Integrity joy _ . . justice . . Kindliness . . Knowledge . . Liberty Life . .

INDEX Page

46 Love for Man 22 Love of God 23 Loyalty

46 Malice . . 23 Material Goods

8 Meditation . .

47 Meekness

24 Mercy

8 Moderation

24- Modesty . . ll Nearness to God . . 25 Obedience . . 12 Parents

25 Patience

47 Politics

12 Praise

26 Prayer

26 Purity

27 Radiance . . 28 Rectitude of Conduct 48 Righteousness 4-9 Sacrifice

28 Sanctity

49 Seclusion

28 Self-expression 12 Self-knowledge 29 Selflessness . . 29 Service

30 Sex . .

50 Sincerity

31 Sleep . . 50 Spirituality . .

1 3 Steadfastness

51 Sympathy . . 31 Thankfulness , 32 Temperance

1 3 Trustworthiness 5 l Truthfulness

52 Unity

14 Vengeance . . 52 Violence

32 War . .

33 Wisdom

52 Work

14 World

54 Worship