A New Race of Men

15 September 2013

Selected Extracts from the Letters of Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice

From Letters Written by and on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

The glowing tributes, so repeatedly and deservedly paid to the capacity, the spirit, the conduct, and the high rank, of the American believers, both individually and as an organic community, must, under no circumstances, be confounded with the characteristics and nature of the people from which God has raised them up. A sharp distinction between that community and that people must be made, and resolutely and fearlessly upheld, if we wish to give due recognition to the transmuting power of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh, in its impact on the lives and standards of those who have chosen to enlist under His banner. Otherwise, the supreme and distinguishing function of His Revelation, which is none other than the calling into being of a new race of men, will remain wholly unrecognized and completely obscured... (p. 16)

“A race of men,” is His [Bahá’u’lláh’s] written promise, “incomparable in character, shall be raised up which, with the feet of detachment, will tread under all who are in heaven and on earth, and will cast the sleeve of holiness over all that hath been created from water and clay.” (p. 31) (25 December 1938, published as ‘The Advent of Divine Justice’)

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“The day is approaching when God will have, by an act of His Will, raised up a race of men the nature of which is inscrutable to all save God, the All-Powerful, the Self-Subsisting.” “He will, erelong, out of the Bosom of Power, draw forth the Hands of Ascendancy and Might––Hands who will arise to win victory for this Youth, and who will purge mankind from the defilement of the outcast and the ungodly. These Hands will gird up their loins to champion the Faith of God, and will, in My name, the Self-Subsistent, the Mighty, subdue the peoples and kindreds of the earth. They will enter the cities, and will inspire with fear the hearts of all their inhabitants. Such are the evidences of the might of God; how fearful, how vehement is His might!” (Bahá’u’lláh cited in The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 85)

Baha’i Meetings, The Nineteen Day Feast

1976

From The Writings Of Bahá'u'lláh

The friends of God, one and all, are remembered by the Supreme Pen: The bounties of the Source of Bounty are at every moment visibly descending. It behoveth the friends in whatever land they be, to gather together in meetings, and therein to speak wisely and with eloquence, and to read the verses of God; for it is God's Words that kindle love's fire and set it ablaze. (Bahá'u'lláh, from unpublished Tablet)

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By My life and My Cause! Round about whatever dwelling the friends of God may enter, and from which their cry shall rise as they praise and glorify the Lord, shall circle the souls of true believers and all the favoured angels. And should the door of the true eye be opened unto some, they shall witness the Supreme Concourse as it circleth and crieth: “Blessed art thou, O house, for God hath made thee a resting-place for those He favoureth, and a lodging for those He holdeth dear, and a home for those in whom He hath placed His trust. Unto thee be His praise and His glory and His endless grace.” (Bahá'u'lláh, from unpublished Tablet)

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They who are the beloved of God, in whatever place they gather and whomsoever they may meet, must evince, in their attitude towards God, and in the manner of their celebration of His praise and glory, such humility and submissiveness that every atom of the dust beneath their feet may attest the depth of their devotion. The conversation carried by these holy souls should be informed with such power that these same atoms of dust will be thrilled by its influence. They should conduct themselves in such manner that the earth upon which they tread may never be allowed to address to them such words as these: “I am to be preferred above you. For witness, how patient I am in bearing the burden which the husbandman layeth upon me. I am the instrument that continually imparteth unto all beings the blessings with which He Who is the Source of all grace hath entrusted me. Notwithstanding the honor conferred upon me, and the unnumbered evidences of my wealth - a wealth that supplieth the needs of all creation - behold the measure of my humility, witness with what absolute submissiveness I allow myself to be trodden beneath the feet of men....” (“Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh”)

Extracts from four Tablets by ‘Abdu’l-Baha concerning the question of inheritance

1996

O ye the relatives of that servant of God!

Give thanks unto God that ye have been successful in distributing the inheritance in the manner laid down by Him. This is the first time in this great Cycle that an inheritance hath been so distributed. God willing, all will follow your example in carrying this law into effect.

In this connection, it should be noted that the question of the will is of extreme importance: everyone should devote the most serious attention to drawing up a will, so that there should be no one who doth not have a will. This is one of the binding laws of this mighty Dispensation. We ask God to bestow a blessing upon your affairs so that they may prosper abundantly.

Upon you be greeting and praise.

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As for the question of inheritance which is occasioning perplexity: in truth, one is entirely free during his lifetime to make provision in his will for the division and distribution of his property amongst his heirs in whatsoever manner he seeth fit, in order that his wishes may then be implemented after he hath passed away. The writing of a will is obligatory upon everyone; everyone, that is, must in his lifetime draw up a will that is firm, sound, and clear in its provisions; seal and hide it; and guard it in a very safe place. In drawing up his will the testator enjoyeth full discretion to dispose of his property as he seeth fit; his will is a binding instrument, having precedence over any other provision, and no one hath the power to either modify or change it. Under these conditions, should he bequeath his whole property to his children, he is but acting within his rights. In the event, however, of disobedience to this command, of failure to draw up a will, and of non-fulfillment of the divine obligation; likewise in the event of disappearance of the will itself, the testator’s property will be divided up according to the designated shares.

Literary Style Translation

15 August 2002

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Regarding the translation of the Books and Tablets of the Blessed Beauty, ere long will translations be made into every tongue, with power, clarity and grace. At such time as they are translated, conformably to the originals, and with power and grace of style, the splendours of their inner meanings will be shed abroad, and will illumine the eyes of all mankind. Do thy very best to ensure that the translation is in conformity with the original. ("Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá")

From the writings of Shoghi Effendi and letters written on his behalf

This is one more attempt to introduce to the West, in language however inadequate, this book of unsurpassed pre-eminence among the writings of the Author of the Baha'i Revelation. The hope is that it may assist others in their efforts to approach what must always be regarded as the unattainable goal—a befitting rendering of Bahá’u’lláh’s matchless utterance. (Shoghi Effendi. Foreword to "The Kitáb-i-Iqán" (Wilmette: Baha'i Publishing Trust, 1985)

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It must have been very distasteful to you to read some of the off-hand and ungrammatical translations that more out of necessity than choice won circulation and were even published. Furthermore, it was always the expressed wish and desire of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to have proper and adequate translations that would not only convey the true spirit of the original but also possess some literary ment. And for this he emphasized the necessity of a board of translators. Such a board it has unfortunately been impossible to form as yet. (28 March 1926 to an individual believer)

The People of Bahá Mentioned in the Book of Names

23 March 2003

Extract from the Tablet of Carmel

“Call out to Zion, O Carmel, and announce the joyful tidings: He that was hidden from mortal eyes is come! His all-conquering sovereignty is manifest; His all-encompassing splendour is revealed. Beware lest thou hesitate or halt. Hasten forth and circumambulate the City of God that hath descended from heaven, the celestial Kaaba round which have circled in adoration the favoured of God, the pure in heart, and the company of the most exalted angels. Oh, how I long to announce unto every spot on the surface of the earth, and to carry to each one of its cities, the glad-tidings of this Revelation—a Revelation to which the heart of Sinai hath been attracted, and in whose name the Burning Bush is calling: ‘Unto God, the Lord of Lords, belong the kingdoms of earth and heaven.’ Verily this is the Day in which both land and sea rejoice at this announcement, the Day for which have been laid up those things which God, through a bounty beyond the ken of mortal mind or heart, hath destined for revelation. Ere long will God sail His Ark upon thee, and will manifest the people of Bahá who have been mentioned in the Book of Names.” (“Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas" (Wilmette: Baháí Publishing Trust, 1998), pages 4-5) [1]

From the letters written by Shoghi Effendi

Then will the Throne of Bahá’u’lláh’s sovereignty be founded in the promised land and the scales of justice be raised on high. Then will the banner of the independence of the Faith be unfurled, and His Most Great Law be unveiled and rivers of laws and ordinances stream forth from this snow-white spot with all-conquering power and awe-inspiring majesty, the like of which past ages have never seen. Then will appear the truth of what was revealed by the Tongue of Grandeur: “Call out to Zion, O Carmel, and announce the joyful tidings: He that was hidden from mortal eyes is come! His all-conquering sovereignty is manifest; His all-encompassing splendour is revealed.” “...O Carmel... Well is it with him that circleth around thee, that proclaimeth the revelation of thy glory, and recounteth that which the bounty of the Lord, thy God, hath showered upon thee.... Ere long will God sail His Ark upon thee, and will manifest the people of Bahá who have been mentioned in the Book of Names.”...

Through it the pillars of the Faith on this earth will be firmly established and its hidden powers be revealed, its signs shine forth, its banners be unfurled and its light be shed upon all peoples. (27 November 1929, translated from the Persian) [2]

The Difficult Art of Translation

(Selected Extracts from letters written by and on behalf of the Universal House of Justice concerning the translations of Shoghi Effendi)

15 August 2002

The matter of translation is a major problem. As you yourself know only too well, to convey exactly the meaning and flavour of a passage from one language to another is often impossible and one can but labour to approach as near as possible to the unattainable perfection. Even our beloved Guardian, whose skill in this art amounted to genius, characterized his translation of the "Kitáb-i-Iqán" as “one more attempt to introduce to the West, in language however inadequate, this book of unsurpassed preeminence among the writings of the Author of the Baha'i Revelation” and he expressed the hope "that it may assist others in their efforts to approach what must always be regarded as the unattainable goal—a befitting rendering of Bahá'u’lláh's matchless utterance.”

The difficulty of translation increases when two languages express the thoughts and metaphors of widely differing cultures: thus, it is infinitely more difficult for a European to conceive the thought patterns expressed in Arabic or Persian than to understand a passage written in English. Moreover, the beloved Guardian was not only a translator but the inspired Interpreter of the Holy Writings; thus, where a passage in Persian or Arabic could give rise to two different expressions in English he would know which one to convey. Similarly he would be much better equipped than an average translator to know which metaphor to employ in English to express a Persian metaphor which might be meaningless in literal translation.

Thus, in general, speakers of other European tongues will obtain a more accurate translation by following the Guardian's English translation than by attempting at this stage in Baha'i history to translate directly from the original.

Importance of and Guidance on Translating the Bahá’i Writings into Indigenous and Other Languages

15 August 2002

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Regarding the translation of the Books and Tablets of the Blessed Beauty, erelong will translations be made into every tongue, with power, clarity and grace. At such time as they are translated, conformably to the originals, and with power and grace of style, the splendours of their inner meanings will be shed abroad, and will illumine the eyes of all mankind. Do thy very best to ensure that the translation is in conformity with the original. ("Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá") [1]

From Letters written by the Universal House of Justice

It is, of course, permissible to translate Bahá’i writings into other languages and dialects of languages. It is also possible to simplify or paraphrase the Bahá’i writings in order to facilitate their translation into languages and dialects having small vocabularies. However, it is not permissible to publish simplifications and paraphrases of Bahá’i writings as Bahá’i Scripture. (13 March 1969 to a National Spiritual Assembly) [2]

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With the exception of certain oriental languages such as Turkish, Arabic and Urdu, which are related to the original Persian or Arabic, new translations of the Sacred Text into languages other than English must be made from the Guardian’s English translation where it exists. When there is no translation into English by Shoghi Effendi of a particular passage, the National Spiritual Assembly concerned should seek the advice of the Universal House of Justice. When translations already exist, which are not made from the Guardian’s English text, but have been published and approved, they may be used. (28 March 1971 to all National Spiritual Assemblies) [3]

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The point is well taken that it would unduly delay fundamental Baha’i teachings being published in a number of languages if we were to await the availability of Baha’is competent to make the translations. Summaries, commentaries and simple re-statements of the Guardian’s writings, provided the text itself is not attributed to the Guardian, are to be encouraged. (13 August 1972 to the Hands of the Cause of God in the Holy Land) [4]

Naming of Babies

1998?

From the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá

When it is wished to celebrate the naming of a child, a special gathering may be held at which prayers and verses from the Holy Writings should be read out, and all should fervently entreat, in lowliness and devotion before the Divine Threshold, that the new-born infant may attain to righteousness, and beseech that it may be granted heavenly confirmation, steadfastness and constancy. The chosen name should then be conferred on the child, and afterwards sweetmeats and refreshments may be served--this is spiritual baptism. (From a Tablet translated from the Persian)

From Letters written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice

With reference to the House of Justice's suggesting a name for your dear son, it holds to the same policy as that of the beloved Guardian, a policy which is made clear in the following excerpt from a letter written to an individual believer on behalf of the Guardian by his secretary:

“The new child which will soon be given to you by God is, indeed, a divine blessing, of which you should feel proud, and of the manifold responsibilities and obligations which it necessarily entails you should become fully aware. It is now that you can truly say that you have a family life. Without a child there can be no family, and through him the bonds of love and of service can be truly and strongly maintained between the wife and husband.

“Your request from the Guardian that he should give a name for your baby is one which many believers have already made, and to which he has invariably given the same reply, namely, that since such demands were formerly made to the Master he does not think it would be fitting and appropriate that he should continue doing what 'Abdu'l-Bahá alone was fully entitled to do. He hopes that you will not misunderstand him on this point and that you will fully realize the wisdom of his instruction in this rather delicate matter. (4 November 1933) (5 June 1974 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)

Transsexuality and Sex-Change Operations

2002

Extracts from Letters Written on Behalf of the Universal House of Justice on Transsexuality

[1] The House of Justice has not found any text in the Bahá’í writings which deals explicitly with the subjects of transsexuality or surgical operations carried out to change sex or to establish a single sex. It has decided that changes of sex or attempts to change sex should, at the present time, be considered medical questions on which advice and guidance should be sought from experts in that field.

If a Bahá’í has had surgery and a change of sex has been registered officially on the birth certificate or otherwise, marriage is permissible to a person of the sex opposite to that which is officially registered. (31 August 1983 to an individual believer)

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[2] On the specific question of changing one’s sex, the House of Justice has not found any text; its view is that this subject is primarily a medical question and as such requires advice and guidance from experts in that field.... It is not within the province of the Assembly to advise Mr. ... whether or not to undergo a sex-change procedure, but it does have the right to request him to provide it with documentary evidence, both medical and civil, stating what his/her sex is. In other words, until it receives proof that he has become female, it must go on the premise that he is male and his moral behaviour must be governed by Bahá’í principles on that basis. Once it is certified that his sex has been changed, he would need to observe Bahá’í moral principles as they apply to a woman, and the community would, presumably, be informed of the change. In other words, undergoing the procedure is a medical matter and the Assembly is concerned only with the change of status which it would produce. The Local Spiritual Assembly also expresses concern about his current behaviour which gives the impression of homosexuality, and thus places in question the morality of his having roommates of either sex, no matter what stage the sex-change procedure has reached. An example is his dressing as a woman while still, apparently, being a man. Such actions could well be regarded as giving the appearance of immoral behaviour and as having the potential for bringing the community into disrepute. As you are well aware, if a believer’s conduct conspicuously disgraces the Faith and brings serious injury to its reputation, his voting rights are subject to deprivation; generally such an action should be taken only after the person has been counselled and warned of the possible consequences of his behaviour. (27 December 1987 to a National Spiritual Assembly) [footnote: The National Spiritual Assembly sought guidance on behalf of a Local Spiritual Assembly.]

Adoption and Parental Consent

Extracts from letters written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice

September 2003

The House of Justice sympathizes with the deep feelings you have expressed concerning the relations of adoptive parents to their children and affirms your view that the role of such parents in nurturing the development of these children is as valuable as that of natural parents. The noble standing of both natural and adoptive parents is affirmed by Bahá’u’lláh in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas in the benediction He invokes for parents who raise their own and other children. He states: “He that bringeth up his son or the son of another, it is as though he hath brought up a son of Mine; upon him rest My Glory, My loving kindness, My Mercy, that have compassed the world.”

It is in this same Book of Laws that Bahá’u’lláh enunciated the law requiring parental consent to marriage. Shoghi Effendi interpreted this law as applying to natural parents, one purpose being “to place a certain gratitude and respect in the hearts of children for those who have given them life and sent their souls out on the eternal journey towards their Creator”. Surely God is just, and the absence of a legal requirement that adoptive parents give consent to marriage does not in any way detract from the high spiritual merit of their parental role; nor should it diminish the love and unity between the adoptive parents and their adoptive child. In this regard, the House of Justice has stated previously that the adoptive child, while not obligated to obtain consent of his adoptive parents, may well choose to do so, out of a sense of love and respect for them.

In cases where the civil law prevents the disclosure of the names of the natural parents, the child is, of course, under no obligation to seek their consent to marriage, but in those where it is possible for the child to know his natural parents, consent must be obtained provided there is nothing in the law or in the adoption contract which prevents him from doing so.

The use of the masculine gender in the Bahá’í Writings

2002

(Extracts from Letters Written By and on Behalf of the Universal House of Justice)

In many languages the use of the masculine gender, unless intended specifically to denote masculinity, is generic. For instance, in English we speak of the race of man, or mankind, in both instances meaning every member of the human race—men, women and children. There would be no reason to interpret "O Son of Being", or "O Son of Man" as addressed only to males. It is the same with pronouns. (5 April 1981, written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer) [1]

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The principle of the equality of men and women which is firmly established by the Author of the Faith and forms one of the basic tenets of our belief will be fully realized as the human race matures in its understanding of the significance of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation. Equality will be achieved as a direct result of the adjustments the friends are required to make in their attitude towards this fundamental issue so essential to the establishment of the unity of mankind, and despite the exigencies of the languages in which the revealed Words have been received and in which they have been translated. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says: "...in His estimate there is no question of sex." "In the estimation of God there is no gender."

The translation of the Writings of the Central Figures of the Faith must of necessity agree in full detail with the original in conveying the exact meaning of the Words as they have been revealed. The Guardian did not even approve the changing of pronouns in Bahá’í prayers when they are read. Therefore, no deviation in translation from the actual meaning of the words, to accommodate the general trend of thought and behaviour affecting a language, is conceivable, unless, of course, the equivalent of the original word does not exist in a given language. In one of His talks quoted in "The Promulgation of Universal Peace", page 76, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says:

“The truth is that all mankind are the creatures and servants of one God, and in His estimate all are human. "Man" is a generic term applying to all humanity. The biblical statement "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness" does not mean that woman was not created. The image and likeness of God apply to her as well. In Persian and Arabic there are two distinct words translated into English as man: one meaning man and woman collectively, the other distinguishing man as male from woman the female. The first word and its pronoun are generic, collective; the other is restricted to the male. This is the same in Hebrew.”

Homosexuality

1993

(Extracts from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, letters written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, and letters written by or on behalf of the Universal House of Justice, 1993)

Extracts from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh

We shrink for very shame, from treating of the subject of boys. Fear ye the Merciful, O peoples of the world! Commit not that which if forbidden you in Our Holy Tablet, and be not of those who rove distractedly in the wilderness of their desires. (Kitab-i-Aqdas, paragraph 107)

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Ye are forbidden to commit adultery, sodomy and lechery. Avoid them, O concourse of the faithful. By the righteousness of God! Ye have been called into being to purge the world from the defilement of evil passions. This is what the Lord of all mankind hath enjoined upon you, could ye but perceive it. He who relateth himself to the All-Merciful and committeth satanic deeds, verily he is not of Me. Unto this beareth witness every atom, pebble, tree and fruit, and beyond them this ever-proclaiming, truthful and trustworthy Tongue. (From a previously untranslated Tablet)

Extracts from letters written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

...Bahá'u'lláh has spoken very strongly against this shameful sexual aberration, as He has against adultery and immoral conduct in general. We must try and help the soul to overcome them. (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 25 October 1949)

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No matter how devoted and fine the love may be between people of the same sex, to let it find expression in sexual acts is wrong. To say that it is ideal is no excuse. Immorality of every sort is really forbidden by Bahá'u'lláh, and homosexual relationships He looks upon as such, besides being against nature.

Human Rights in the Bahá'í Writings

2001

From the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh

Blessed is he who preferreth his brother before himself. Verily, such a man is reckoned, by virtue of the Will of God, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise, with the people of Bahá who dwell in the Crimson Ark. (Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh Revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas (Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1988), p. 71)

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All men have been created to carry forward an ever-advancing civilization. The Almighty beareth Me witness: 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. (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh (Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1983), p. 215)

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Illumine and hallow your hearts; let them not be profaned by the thorns of hate or the thistles of malice. Ye dwell in one world, and have been created through the operation of one Will. Blessed is he who mingleth with all men in a spirit of utmost kindliness and love. (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, p. 334)

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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 neighbor. Ponder this in thy heart; how it behooveth thee to be. Verily justice is My gift to thee and the sign of My loving kindness. Set it then before thine eyes. (The Hidden Words (Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1990), pp. 3-4)

From the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá

The Holocaust and the Greater Plan of God

1998

1. The Holocaust

From the Utterances of 'Abdu'l-Bahá

When you [the Jewish people] glorify and honor the memory of Christ, rest assured that the Christians will take your hands in real fellowship. All difficulty, hesitancy and restraint will vanish. Consider the troubles and persecutions heaped upon you in Russia for your fanaticism of unbelief. And you must not think that this is ended.

This humiliation will continue forever. The time may come when in Europe itself they will arise against the Jews. But your declaration that Christ was the Word of God will end all such trouble. My advice is that in order to become honorable, protected and secure among the nations of the world, in order that the Christians may love and safeguard the Israelitish people, you should be willing to announce your belief in Christ, the Word of God. This is a complete statement; there is nothing more. Is it not thoughtless, ignorant prejudice which restrains you from doing so? Declare that, verily, the Word of God was realized in Him, and all will be right. (The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by 'Abdu'l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912 rev. ed. (Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1982), p. 414)

From Letters Written by or on Behalf of Shoghi Effendi

With reference to your question concerning the racial problem in America: although the American race problem is no less serious than the race question in Europe, particularly as regards the Jews, yet the Guardian is inclined to think that for the present there is little likelihood of its becoming as widespread and tragic as in such European countries as Germany, Poland and other Central European and Balkan States. He feels convinced, however, that unless the racial question in America is vigorously and fearlessly tackled, grave disturbances, of both a social and political nature, will inevitably result. (27 April 1939, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)

Reproduction and other biological subjects

2000

Extracts from letters written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

With regard to the soul of man: According to the Bahá'í Teachings the human soul starts with the formation of the human embryo, and continues to develop and pass through endless stages of existence after its separation from the body. Its progress is thus infinite.

As to your question regarding the possibility of an artificial production of life by means of an incubator: this is essentially a matter that concerns science, and as such should be investigated and studied by scientists. (31 December 1937, to an individual)

The Teachings do not tell us of any miraculous birth besides that of Jesus. As to the possibility of conception without the presence of a male sperm in the future: this is a question which lies entirely within the province of science, and which future scientists will have to investigate. (27 February 1938, to an individual)

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Extracts From Letters Written on Behalf of the Universal House of Justice

Your second question concerning the possible synthesis of an elementary 'life' form such as a simple virus relates to the statement made by 'Abdu'l-Bahá on "The Origin of Man" from Bahá'í World Faith, p. 298 (originally Some Answered Questions, p. 211):

“For example, if a man of his own mind and intelligence collects some elements and combines them, a living being will not be brought into existence, since the system is unnatural. This is the answer to the implied question that, since beings are made by the composition and the combination of elements, why is it not possible for us to gather elements and mingle them together, and so create a living being. This is a false supposition, for the origin of this composition is from God; it is God Who makes the combination, and as it is done according to the natural system, from each composition one being is produced, and an existence is realized. A composition made by man produces nothing because man cannot create.”

To understand the implications of this statement it is necessary to know what the Master meant by "a living being" and what limitations He intended by the phrases "of his own mind and intelligence" and "since the system is unnatural." As the science of biology develops and men acquire ever deeper insights into the nature of living things, these implications will no doubt become clearer. (22 June 1977, to an individual)

The Principle of an International Auxiliary Language

1994

From the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Thou hast written regarding the language of Esperanto. This language will be spread and universalized to a certain degree, but later on a language more complete than this, or the same language will undergo some changes and alterations and will be adopted and become universal. I hope that Dr. Zamenhof may become assisted by the invisible confirmation and do a great service to the world of humanity. (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá 'Abbás, vol. 3 (Chicago: Bahá’í Publishing Committee, 1930 printing), p. 692)

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As to the Esperantists, associate with them. Whenever you find one with capacity, convey to him the fragrances of Life.... It is evident that the Esperantists are receptive and thou art familiar with and expert in their language. Communicate also with the Esperantists of Germany and other places.... Grieve not over the apathy and coldness of the Hague meeting. Put thy trust in God. Our hope is that among the people the Esperanto language may hereafter have a powerful effect. Thou hast now sown the seed. Assuredly it will grow. Its growth dependeth upon God. (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Haifa: Bahá’í World Centre, 1982), sec. 228, p. 308)

From letters written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi

What Bahá’u’lláh says is that the Supreme House of Justice will appoint a committee that will study the whole matter and then either choose one of the existing languages or create a new one, to function as an international language. The Master never went beyond that, i.e. He never tried to solve the problem Himself and choose that language. He still leaves it to the Supreme House of Justice. But He says that Esperanto will spread and even went so far as to encourage all the friends who possibly can to study it. In fact the knowledge of Esperanto has proven very useful for one who tries to teach in different countries of the world.

But whether Esperanto will become the international language which is to be a part of our religious and social duties to study, no one knows, and we have no evidence that the Master made any definite statement along that line. The Master has scarcely ever assumed the solution of a problem that Bahá’u’lláh has referred to the Supreme House of Justice. Esperanto may become an international language, but it depends upon the House of Justice to choose it as the international language. And no one is in a position to foretell. (30 August 1928 to an individual believer)

The world’s current state of disorder and confusion

2020

(Extracts from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Letters of Shoghi Effendi and the Universal House of Justice, September 2020)

The world’s equilibrium hath been upset through the vibrating influence of this most great, this new World Order. Mankind’s ordered life hath been revolutionized through the agency of this unique, this wondrous System—the like of which mortal eyes have never witnessed. (Bahá’u’lláh, The Kitab-i-Aqdas, par. 181)

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O ye lovers of God! The world is even as a human being who is diseased and impotent, whose eyes can see no longer, whose ears have gone deaf, all of whose powers are corroded and used up. Wherefore must the friends of God be competent physicians who, following the holy Teachings, will nurse this patient back to health. Perhaps, God willing, the world will mend, and become permanently whole, and its exhausted faculties will be restored, and its person will take on such vigor, freshness and verdancy that it will shine out with comeliness and grace. (‘Abdul-Baha. Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Wilmette: Bahá’i Publishing Trust, 2014), par. 200.6)

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The call of Bahá’u’lláh is primarily directed against all forms of provincialism, all insularities and prejudices. If long-cherished ideals and time-honored institutions, if certain social assumptions and religious formulae have ceased to promote the welfare of the generality of mankind, if they no longer minister to the needs of a continually evolving humanity, let them be swept away and relegated to the limbo of obsolescent and forgotten doctrines. Why should these, in a world subject to the immutable law of change and decay, be exempt from the deterioration that must needs overtake every human institution? For legal standards, political and economic theories are solely designed to safeguard the interests of humanity as a whole, and not humanity to be crucified for the preservation of the integrity of any particular law or doctrine. (Shoghi Effendi, from a letter dated 28 November 1931, in The World Order of Bahá'u’lláh: Selected Letters (Wilmette: Bahá’i Publishing Trust, 1991). p. 42)

Living the Life

(included in ‘The Compilation of Compilations vol. 2)

Extracts From the Writings of the Guardian

How often the beloved Master was heard to say. Should each one of the friends take upon himself to carry out, in all its integrity and implications, only one of the teachings of the Faith, with devotion, detachment, constancy and perseverance and exemplify it in all his deeds and pursuits of life, the world would become another world and the face of the earth would mirror forth the splendours of the Abha Paradise. Consider what marvellous changes would be effected if the beloved of the Merciful conducted themselves, both in their individual and collective capacities, in accordance with the counsels and exhortations which have streamed from the Pen of Glory. (From a letter dated 12 January 1923 written by Shoghi Effendi to the Bahá'ís of Persia - translated from the Persian; The Compilation of Compilations, Vol. II, Living the Life)

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The wish of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, that which attracts His good pleasure and, indeed, His binding command, is that Bahá'ís, in all matters, even in small daily transactions and dealings with others, should act in accordance with the divine Teaching1s. He has commanded us not to be content with lowliness, humility and meekness, but rather to become manifestations of selflessness and utter nothingness. Of old, all have been exhorted to loyalty and fidelity, compassion and love; in this supreme Dispensation, the people of Bahá are called upon to sacrifice their very lives. Notice the extent to which the friends have been required in the Sacred Epistles and Tablets, as well as in our Beloved's Testament, to be righteous, well-wishing, forbearing, sanctified, pure, detached from all else save God, severed from the trappings of this world and adorned with the mantle of a goodly character and godly attributes.

First and foremost, one should use every possible means to purge one's heart and motives, otherwise, engaging in any form of enterprise would be futile. It is also essential to abstain from hypocrisy and blind imitation, inasmuch as their foul odour is soon detected by every man of understanding and wisdom. Moreover, the friends must observe the specific times for the remembrance of God, meditation, devotion and prayer, as it is highly unlikely, nay impossible, for any enterprise to prosper and develop when deprived of divine bestowals and confirmation. One can hardly imagine what a great influence genuine love, truthfulness and purity of motives exert on the souls of men. But these traits cannot be acquired by any believer unless he makes a daily effort to gain them... It is primarily through the potency of noble deeds and character, rather than by the power of exposition and proofs, that the friends of God should demonstrate to the world that what has been promised by God is bound to happen, that it is already taking place and that the divine glad-tidings are clear, evident and complete. For unless some illustrious souls step forth into the arena of service and shine out resplendent in the assemblage of men, the task of vindicating the truth of this Cause before the eyes of enlightened people would be formidable indeed. However, if the friends become embodiments of virtue and good character, words and arguments will be superfluous. Their very deeds will well serve as eloquent testimony, and their noble conduct will ensure the preservation, integrity and glory of the Cause of God. (From a letter dated 19 December 1923 written by Shoghi Effendi to the Bahá'ís of the East - translated from the Persian; The Compilation of Compilations, vol. II, Living the Life)

Baha’i Burial, 1991

1991

From the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh

It is forbidden you to carry the body more than an hour's distance from the town; bury it with tranquillity and cheer in a nearby place.

(Bahá'u'lláh, from a Tablet - translated from the Arabic)

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QUESTION: Is the ordinance that the body of the deceased should be carried no greater distance than one hour's journey applicable to transport by both land and sea?

ANSWER: This command applieth to distances by sea as well as by land, whether it is an hour by steamship or by rail; the intention is the hour's time, whatever the means of transport. The sooner the burial taketh place, however, the more fitting and acceptable will it be. (Q & A; "The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, The Most Holy Book, Bahá'u'lláh", Haifa: Bahá'í World Centre, 1992, pp. 111-112)

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In brief, the Bahá'í law for the burial of the dead states that it is forbidden to carry the body for more than one hour's journey from the place of death; that the body should be wrapped in a shroud of silk or cotton, and on its finger should be placed a ring bearing the inscription "I came forth from God, and return unto Him, detached from all save Him, holding fast to His Name, the Merciful, the Compassionate"; and that the coffin should be of crystal, stone or hard fine wood. A specific Prayer for the Dead (see note 10) is ordained, to be said before interment. As affirmed by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and the Guardian, this law precludes cremation of the dead. The formal prayer and the ring are meant to be used for those who have attained the age of maturity, i.e. 15 years of age (Q & A 70)("The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, The Most Holy Book, Bahá'u'lláh", Haifa: Bahá'í World Centre, 1992, p. 229)

The Bible: Extracts on the Old and New Testaments

From the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh

Mention hath been made in certain books of a deluge which caused all that existed on earth, historical records as well as other things, to be destroyed. Moreover, many cataclysms have occurred which have effaced the traces of many events. Furthermore, among existing historical records differences are to be found, and each of the various peoples of the world hath its own account of the age of the earth and of its history. Some trace their history as far back as eight thousand years, others as far as twelve thousand years. To any one that hath read the book of Juk it is clear and evident how much the accounts given by the various books have differed.

Please God thou wilt turn thine eyes towards the Most Great Revelation, and entirely disregard these conflicting tales and traditions. ("Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh", 2nd. ed. (Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1982), pp. 174-175)

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The Four Gospels were written after Him [Christ]. John, Luke, Mark and Matthew - these four wrote after Christ what they remembered of His utterances. (From a previously untranslated Tablet)

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...the Torah that God hath confirmed consists of the exact words that streamed forth at the bidding of God from the tongue of Him Who conversed with Him (Moses). (From a previously untranslated Tablet)

From the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá

Yoga

2015

From the Universal House of Justice

There is nothing specifically about yoga in the Bahá’í writings .... (From a letter dated 1 September 1977 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)

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It is apparent that you are well aware of the importance of daily prayer and meditation, but we are asked to point out that the manner in which meditation is done need not follow practices such as those advocated by proponents of yoga or other forms of Hindu mysticism. For example, the reading of the “Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh” or other of His Writings, and subsequent meditation on the wisdom they contain, can be an effective way of meditating. Further, the daily study of the writings of our Faith and contemplation of the inspiration to be found therein should prove to be most gratifying and provide the tranquillity that one seeks through meditation. (From a letter dated 16 September 1982 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer)

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The Universal House of Justice has received your letter of 3 December 1994 and has instructed us to state that there is no objection to your continuing to be a tutor of yoga, which is understood to consist of mostly physical exercises.

However, at the present stage of the development of the Faith, while it is still comparatively unknown, the Bahá’ís must take care not to confuse the public as to its true nature by associating it with activities and programmes which, even though they may be admirable in themselves, are not a part of Bahá’í Teachings. As you may be aware, there is no reference to yoga in the Bahá’í Writings nor are there any specific forms of meditation enjoined on Bahá’ís, as can be seen from the following extract from a letter written on behalf of the beloved Guardian, which bears on this point:

Agriculture and Rural Life, 1995

From the Writings and Utterances of 'Abdu'l-Bahá

Exert every effort in the fields of development and of civilization, in the acquisition of knowledge, the increase of trade, the improvement of agriculture and the promotion of modern discoveries. (From a Tablet)      

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The friends must engage in the work of developing Persia, that is, they must exert great efforts in the promotion of agriculture, industry, trade, education, arts, and sciences. (From a Tablet)

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...and when thou passest by a field in which crops, flowers, blossoms and vegetables are blended in harmony, it is evident that the field or the flower bed hath been brought into existence and hath been arranged by an experienced farmer. And, when thou observest plants that are scattered, disordered and disarranged, it is clear they have been deprived of the skillful touch of an experienced farmer, and that they are naught but wild weeds. (From a Tablet)

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All the friends of God ... should contribute to the extent possible, however modest their offering may be. God doth not burden a soul beyond its capacity. Such contributions must come from all centres and all believers.... O friends of God! Be ye assured that in place of these contributions, your agriculture, your industry, and your commerce will be blessed by manifold increases, with goodly gifts and bestowals. He who cometh with one goodly deed will receive a tenfold reward. There is no doubt that the living Lord will abundantly confirm those who expend their wealth in His path. (From a Tablet)