Tablets of
Baha'u'llah and `Abdu'l-Baha in Star of the West, book 1
(Most notes in [brackets] added by Sen McGlinn.)
Table of Contents
Volume One
Volume Two
Tablets of Baha'u'llah and `Abdu'l-Baha
from
Star of the West, Book 1, volume 2
Vol. 2:1 Page 6
The following Tablet has been received from Abdul-Baha in
regard to the important matter of sending two teachers to the School of Tarbiat:
HE IS GOD.
O Thou Servant of the Blessed Perfection!
They have written from Teheran that there is need of a
scientific teacher for the School of Tarbiat. He must be efficient in science as
well as the English language; for at present there is no man in the School of
Tarbiat who is a scientist or linguist. They are in need of both, science and the
English language.
Therefore, consult with the believers of God and select one
soon, from among the American Bahais, who is efficient in science and arts, and
send him to Teheran. He will receive a salary sufficient to sustain him with the
utmost ease while there.
Likewise select a woman teacher who may fill the position
of principal as well as teacher, and send her without delay. The woman must have
a share of the knowledge of sciences and be proficient in woman's work, such as
sewing, housekeeping, hygiene and household economics, etc.
This matter is very necessary, and you must give to it the
utmost importance and exert yourselves to bring this about; so that the
association of the Interdependence of the West may render assistance to the East.
Upon thee be Baha-el-ABHA!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, February 23, 1911
Vol. 2:1 Page 8
The following tablet to the Board of Officers, in answer to a supplication written
to Abdul-Baha by the Corresponding Secretary was received:
Through Agha Zia Effendi, son of M. Mostafa, to the maid-servants of God; Mrs. Ida
Brush, Mrs. Mary B. Grayson, Mrs. Fannie G. Lesch, Mrs. Elizabeth Greenleaf, Mrs.
Grace Foster, Mrs. Christine Loeding, Miss Laura E. Jones, Miss Mary Lesch, Shahnaz
Khanum (Mrs. Louise R. Waite).
HE IS GOD!
O ye believers who are attracted to the Center of Lights!
Verily there have been various assemblies in America which
were organized many times and out of these but few remained firm.
I supplicate to the Divine Majesty for the establishment of
every assembly which hath turned its face towards God, left the scattered desires,
abandoned the self and passion and become firm in the Cause of God as solid
mountains, which are not agitated by the winds and violent storms.
Then, O ye maid-servants of the Merciful, it is incumbent
upon ye to be firm, sincere and highly energetic and in great unity; severed from
all save God; effaced and annihilated in the love of God; sacrificing yourselves
under all conditions and circumstances; and glorious, so that ye may be filled with
the love of El-Baha and that in ye nothing remains except the abundance of El-Baha.
Should ye arise for these great gifts, ye may rest assured that the confirmations
of the Holy Spirit will follow ye in every time and instant.
Upon ye be El-Baha-el-ABHA!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Zia M. Bagdadi, Feb. 9, 1911
Vol. 2:1 page 10
NEW YEAR'S GREETING FROM ABDUL-BAHA.*
HE IS GOD!
O ye children of the Kingdom!
It is New Year; that is to say, the rounding of the cycle of the
year. A year is the expression of a cycle (of the sun); but now is the beginning of a
cycle of Reality, a New Cycle, a New Age, a New Century, a New Time and a New
Year. Therefore, it is very blessed.
I wish this blessing to appear and become manifest in the
faces and characteristics of the believers, so that they, too, may become a new
people, and having found new life and been baptized with fire and spirit, may make
the world a new world, to the end that the old earth may disappear and the new
earth appear; old ideas depart and new thoughts come; old garments be cast aside
and new garments put on; ancient politics whose foundation is war be discarded
and modern politics founded on peace raise the standard of victory; the new star
shine and gleam and the new sun illumine and radiate; new flowers bloom; the new
spring become known; the new breeze blow; the new
* Revealed for the American friends in
1906, who had sent Abdul-Baha a New Year. (March 21st)
Greeting.
page 11
bounty descend; the new tree give forth new fruit; the new voice become raised
and this new sound reach the ears, that the new will follow the new, and all the
old furnishings and adornments be cast aside and new decorations put in their
places.
I desire for you all that you will have this great assistance
and partake of this great bounty, and that in spirit and heart you will strive and
endeavor until the world of war become the world of peace; the world of darkness
the world of light; satanic conduct be turned into heavenly behavior; the ruined
places become built up; the sword be turned into the olive branch; the flash of
hatred become the flame of the Love of God and the noise of the gun the voice of
the Kingdom; the soldiers of death the soldiers of life; all the nations of the world
one nation; all races as one race; and all national anthems harmonized into one
melody. Then this material realm will be Paradise, the earth Heaven and the world
of Satan become the world of Angels.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA Abbas.
Vol. 2.:1 page 11
TABLET FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
Through Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, to the attracted maid-servant of God, Mrs. Corinne
True, Chicago, Ill.
HE IS GOD!
O thou beloved maid-servant of God!
Your detailed letter was perused and from its contents it
became evident that the debt on the land of the Mashrak-el-Azkar is clear. This
news made the hearts happy and caused infinite rejoicing.
Now it is hoped that the believers of God may show
magnanimity and raise a great sum for the building, so that the foundation of the
Mashrak-el-Azkar may be laid, and, perchance, God willing, the cornerstone of the
foundation may be laid by the hands of Abdul-Baha.
page 12
This confirmation will descend upon the people of America if
they will all arise and endeavor with great courage to establish union and
harmony, so that every trace of difference may be uprooted and they may all
become as one heart and one soul.
Convey the wonderful ABHA greeting to all the friends and
the maid servants of the Merciful.
Upon thee be Baha Baha-el-ABHA!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, March 4, 1911.
Vol. 2:2 April 9 1911, page 3
TABLET REVEALED BY BAHA'O'LLAH
TO THE SULTAN OF TURKEY.
*[Lawh-i Ra'is III (Tablet to `Ali Pasha
III) See Taherzadeh, The Revelation of Baha'u'llah Vol.
3 p. 33]
Describing the sufferings of himself and his followers, after his arrival in
Akka.
HE IS THE POSSESSOR IN HIS MIGHT AND POWER!
The Supreme Pen proclaims:
O, thou personage, who considerest thyself the greatest of
all men, while looking upon the Divine Youth, thinking him to be the lowest of men,
yet through him the Eye of the Supreme Concourse is brightened and illumined. This
Youth has never made nor will he ever make a request of thee: For from the
beginning every one of the Manifestations of Mercifulness and the dawning-Places
of the Glory of the Almighty, who have stepped forth from the Realm of
Immortality upon the arena of existence and shone forth with great splendor for
the quickening of the dead, men like thee have considered those Sanctified Souls
and Temples of Oneness upon whom the reformation of the world depends, as the
people of strife, and wrong-doers. Verily, their names (the deniers) are forgotten
and ere long thy name will also be forgotten and thou shalt find thyself in great
loss. According to thy opinion this quickener of the World and its Peace-Maker is
culpable and seditious. What crime have the women, children and suffering babes
committed, to merit thy wrath, oppression and hate? In every religion and
community the children are considered innocent, nor does the Pen of Divine
Command hold them responsible, yet the reign of thy tyranny and despotism has
surrounded them. If thou art the follower of any religion or sect, read thou the
Heavenly Books, the Inspired Epistles and the Divine Writings, so that thou mayest
realize the irresponsibility of children. On the other hand, even those people who
do believe in God, have never committed such crimes. In
everything an effect is hidden, and no one has denied the effects of things except
an ignorant one who is completely denied and deprived of intelligence. Therefore,
undoubtedly the lamentation of these children and the cries of these wronged ones
will produce a great effect.
You have persecuted a number of souls who have shown no
opposition your country and who have instigated no revolution against the
government; nay, rather, days and nights they have been peacefully engaged in the
mentioning of God. You have pillaged their properties and through your tyrannical
acts, all they had was taken from them. When the order was issued for the
banishment of this Youth, these souls began to lament, but the officers who
constituted my guard mentioned that these souls had committed no wrong, nor has
the government banished them, but if they desire they may follow you for no one
will oppose them. Consequently, they paid all their own
page 4
expenses and leaving their property behind, they were contented with the
Countenance of this Youth and trusting upon God they departed again with the True
One, until the fortress of Akka became the place of the incarceration of Baha'. The
day after the arrival, the officials of the army surrounded the men, women and
children and carried them to the gloomy dungeon of the barrack. The first night
they were given neither bread nor water, for the sentinels were guarding the door
of the prison and permitted no one to leave the place. They did not consider the
plight of these wronged ones. Water was asked for, but it was refused. It is now
some time since we are all imprisoned in this dungeon; although we were living
for five years in Adrianople and all the people, whether ignorant or wise, rich or
poor, testified to the sanctity and holiness of these servants.
When departing from Adrianople one of the believers of God
sacrificed himself with his own hand, for he could not see this Wronged One in the
hands of the tyrants. On our way we were transferred three times, from one ship
to another, and it is evident that a number of the children suffered under these
severe circumstances. When we left the steamer, they separated four of the
friends from us, and prevented them from following, and upon the departure of this
Youth, one of the four, named Abdul Gaffar, threw himself into the sea and no one
has ever found any trace of him. This is a drop of the ocean of persecution which
surrounded and encircled us. Notwithstanding these things, they are not yet
satisfied, and every day the officers of the government are increasing their hard-
heartedness, nor is it ended; day and night they are forming new intrigues and
adding to our sufferings. From the government supplies, these prisoners receive
three loaves of bread to last for twenty-four hours, and no one is able to eat
it.
From the beginning of the world, no such persecutions have
been seen or heard of! I declare by the One who has commanded Baha' to speak,
between the heavens and the earth, there is no name or mention for you equal to
those who sacrificed their spirits, bodies and property for the love of God, the
Mighty, the Powerful, the Omnipotent! Before God, a handful of dust is greater than
your kingdom, sovereignty, glory and dominion, and should He desire, He would
scatter you as the sand of the desert, and ere long His wrath shall overtake thee,
revolutions shall appear in your midst and your countries will be divided! Then you
will weep and lament and nowhere will you find help and protection. The
mentioning of these facts is not for the sake of your becoming mindful, for already
the wrath of God has surrounded you, but you have not nor will you become mindful;
neither is it for the sake of reciting the persecutions which have descended upon
these holy souls, for they are intoxicated with the Wine of the Merciful and they
are so exhilarated with the clear Salsabil of Divine Providence, that should the
persecutions of all the world descend upon them in the Path of God, they are
satisfied, nay, rather, grateful; they never had nor will they ever have any
complaints to offer. At every moment the blood in their bodies begs and
supplicates from the Lord of both worlds, that it be shed upon the ground in His
Path; likewise their heads yearn to be raised upon a spear for the sake of the
Beloved of the heart and soul. For several times the tests of God have descended
upon you, and you were not mindful; one was a conflagration which burned the city
with the Fire of Justice, so much so that poets have composed poems about it,
declaring that such a conflagration has never appeared before; notwithstanding
this your negligence increased. Then the cholera came, and still you remained
heedless. Be ye watchful, for the wrath of God is prepared, and ere long ye shall
behold that which is descended from the Pen of Command. Have ye
page 5
thought that your glory is everlasting, or did ye dream that your kingdom would
remain forever? No, by the life of God! Your glory is not eternal, and our
humiliation will not last. This humiliation is the diadem of all the glories, and
only man in his perfection can comprehend it.
When this Youth was a child and had not yet reached the age
of maturity, one of my brothers intended to marry in Teheran and according to the
custom of that country, for seven days and nights they were engaged in feasting
and banqueting. The program for the last day of the entertainments for the guests
was the play of Sultan Salim. The ministers, the grandees and officials of the city
were there in a great throng, and this Youth was sitting in one of the galleries of
the building and was observing the scenes. Then they raised a great tent in the
middle of the court; representations of human forms only a few inches in height
would come out of the tent and cry: "The king is coming, arrange the seats in
order." Then the other figures came out, sweeping the round while a number were
sprinkling the streets with water; then another picture was presented, who was
supposed to be the herald, acquainting the people to be ready for review before His
Majesty, the Sultan.
Then the ministers came, with hat and shawl, according to
the Persian custom; others were present with clubs, while a number of others
were garbed chamberlains, aides-de-camp, ferrashes and executioners with
instruments of punishment. All these men were lined according to their station
and class. At last the king appeared, with sovereign power and shining diadem upon
his head, and with splendor and glory walked slowly and majestically, and with
perfect calmness, tranquility and composure, seated himself upon the throne. At
that moment the noise of the guns and the music of the national anthem was
raised, and the smoke surrounded the tent and the king. When the air was cleared,
it was seen that the king was on his throne, and the ministers, the magistrates
and secretaries had taken their places according to their rank. Immediately, a
thief, captured by the police, was brought before the king, and royal order was
issued to behead him. Then the chief of the executioners took the captive and
decapitated him, and a red fluid, which was like blood, was seen by all the
spectators. While the Sultan was consulting with some of his ministers, the news
was brought in that a certain person had become a rebel. The Sultan issued orders
that several regiments of soldiers and artillerymen be sent to the scene and quell
the disturbance. After a few minutes the thunderous noise of guns and artillery
was heard behind the tent, and we were told they were engaged in battle. This
Youth became astonished and bewildered at these affairs. Then the review ended
and the curtain descended.
After twenty minutes a man came out from behind the tent
with a box under his arm. I asked him, "What is this box? Where is the king and all
the men?" He answered that all these great things and manifest objects, such
kings, princes and ministers, glory, majesty, power and sovereignty that we beheld
were enclosed in this box.
I declare by the Lord who has created all things through His
Word, that from that day all the conditions of this world and its greatness are like
that play before the eyes of this Youth. It has not nor will ever have the weight of
a mustard seed. I was wondering greatly that the people glorify themselves in
these affairs, notwithstanding this, the people of insight will discern with the eye
of certainty the end of the glory of every great one before beholding it. I have seen
nothing except I have discerned its transiency, and God testifies to this. It is
incumbent upon every soul in these few days of life to spend them in truthfulness
and justice and if he be not confirmed with the knowledge of the True One, he can
at least walk in the path of equity and intelligence.
page 6
Ere long all these apparent things, manifest treasuries,
worldly wealth, valiant soldiers, beautiful dresses and haughty souls, will he
enclosed in the box-like tomb, similar to the box which contained all the players,
and all this quarrel, strife and so-called honors are like the play of the children
before the people of insight. Be ye admonished, and be not of those who see the
Truth and yet deny. These things will not affect this Youth and the friends of the
True One, for they are all prisoners and enchained, and will not nor will ever make
any request of people like thee.
The point is this, that thou mayest raise thy head from the
bed of negligence and become mindful and not oppose the servants of God without
reason. Bear in mind that so far as power and strength remain in the body, thou
shouldst remove persecutions from the oppressed ones. Shouldst thou have a little
justice and behold with the eye of certainty in the affairs and differences of the
ephemeral world, thou shalt acknowledge that all of them are like unto the above-
mentioned play. Hearken unto the word of Truth! Be thou not proud on account of
the world. Where are those people who were like unto thee, who claimed divinity in
this earth without the permission of God, and desired to extinguish the Light of
God and to demolish the foundation of Truth? Dost thou see any one of them? Be
just! Then turn to God, perchance He may forgive the sins thou hast committed in
this ephemeral life. Yet we know that thou shalt not become assisted in this, for
through thy tyranny the Fire of Sinai flamed forth, the Spirit wept, and the hearts
of the angels bled.
O, ye people of the earth! Hearken to the voice of this
Oppressed One with the ear of the soul, and ponder ye deeply over the above-
mentioned story. Perchance ye may not be burned with the fire of passion and
desire, and be not prevented from the meeting of the True One, through the
worthless things of the faithless world. Glory and abasement, poverty and wealth,
trouble and tranquillity, all shall pass away, and ere long all the inhabitants of the
earth shall return to the tomb. Therefore every possessor of insight must behold
the immortal outlook, that peradventure, through the Bounties of the Eternal
Sovereign, he may enter into the everlasting Kingdom and rest under the shade of
the Tree of Command. Although the world is the place of treachery and duplicity,
yet under all circumstances it reminds all the people with the idea of change. The
passing of the father is an admonition for the son, and it reminds him that he, too,
must pass away. It would have been well if the people of the world who are
amassing great fortunes and are deprived of the True One, knew what would
become of their great wealth. By the Life of Baha', no one is cognizant of this fact
except God, Glorified is His Station!
The philosopher, Avicena -- peace be upon him -- says: "Be
admonished, O ye whose hearts are darkened, be ye admonished O ye, whose faces
are covered with the lines of age!" However, the majority of the people are asleep.
The example of those souls is like unto a person who was so intoxicated with wine
that he was showing the signs of affection to a dog, and showering upon him
tender words of love and affection. When the morning of intelligence dawned, and
the horizons of the heaven were illumined with the brilliant orb, he beheld that his
beloved was only a dog; when ashamed regretful and remorseful on account of his
act, he returned to his home.
Do thou not think that thou hast made this Youth powerless,
or that thou hast conquered him. Thou art defeated by one of the servants, but
knowest it not. The worst and lowest of creatures ruled over thee, and that is thy
passion and desire, which has been condemned forever. If it were not on account of
the consummate Wisdom of God thou wouldst have seen thy
page 7
weakness and the weakness of the people of the earth. This humility is the glory of
My Cause, wert thou to know! This Youth has never loved nor will ever love to utter
any word which is against courtesy. Verily, courtesy is My Garment with which we
have adorned the temples of our favorite servants. Otherwise some of thy actions
that thou thinkest are unknown, would be mentioned in this Tablet. O, thou
possessor of might! These little children and these friends of God did not need the
officers and soldiers as guards. After our arrival, one of the officers presented
himself and after much conversation expressed his own innocence and thy crime.
This Youth mentioned to him that: "Primarily, it was necessary to bring about a
meeting of the Ullamas of the time and Himself so that the crimes of which these
servants are accused might become evident. However, time has passed and
according to thy statement thou art commanded to imprison us in the 'most
desolate city.' But I have one wish to make of thee, and that is to request of His
Majesty, the Sultan, to grant Me an audience of ten minutes in order that he may
ask proofs and arguments which he thinks would establish the validity of the Word
of God. If the proofs which he desires are made manifest on the part of God, he
should then liberate these wronged ones and leave them to their own
condition."
He promised to take this message and send an answer, but we
heard nothing more from him; although it is not the Station of this True One to
present Himself before any person, for all the people are created for His worship:
Yet for the sake of these little children and the number of women who are away
from their country and people, we volunteered this act, but notwithstanding this,
no result was produced. Omar is living and ready, ask of him so that the Truth may
become manifest to thee. Now all these exiled ones are sick and lying in prison. No
one but God the Mighty, the Glorious, knows what will happen to us.
During the first days two of these servants passed into the
Supreme Concourse. One day one of the officers commanded that they could not
remove those blessed bodies unless they were paid for the shroud and casket,
although no one ever asked anything of them. At that time we possessed no means,
and when we insisted that they leave the work to us and allow the friends to
prepare the dead for burial, they refused. Finally they took a rug to the bazaar and
sold it at auction, and delivered the money to the officers. Later on it became
evident that they only dug the ground and laid the two blessed bodies in the one
grave, although they had been doubly paid for shrouds and caskets. The pen is
unable and the tongue is powerless to describe that which has descended upon us;
however, all these poisons of tests are sweeter to this Youth than honey. I pray
that under all circumstances the trials of the world in the Path of God and the
Love of the Merciful may descend upon this Ocean of Significances. We beg of Him
patience and endurance.
Thou art weak, and knowest it not. Couldst thou realize and
be perfumed with the fragrance wafted from the direction of the Ancient Beauty,
thou wouldst leave everything that thou hast in hand and hasten to come and live in
one of the ruined rooms of this Most Great Prison. Ask thou of God that thou
mayest attain to the age of maturity so that thou mayest recognize the beauty and
ugliness of deeds and actions. Peace be upon those who follow guidance!
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, especially for the STAR OF THE WEST.
Vol. 2:2 page 8
TABLET FROM ABDUL-BAHA
HE IS GOD!
O thou Star of the West!
Be thou happy! Be thou happy! Shouldst thou continue to remain firm and eternal,
ere long, thou shalt become the Star of the East and shalt spread in every country
and clime. Thou art the first paper of the Bahais which is organized in the country
of America. Although for the present thy subscribers are limited, thy form is
small and thy voice weak, yet shouldst thou stand unshakable, become the object
of the attention of the friends and the center of the generosity of the leaders of
the faith who are firm in the Covenant, in the future thy subscribers will become
hosts after hosts like unto waves of the sea; thy volume will increase, thy arena
will become vast and spacious and thy voice and fame will be raised and become
world-wide -- and at last thou shalt become the first paper of the world of
humanity. Yet all these depend upon firmness, firmness, firmness!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS
To the Editors of the STAR OF THE WEST:
O ye Editors of the STAR OF THE WEST!
Your letter was received and your effort became known. I
hope that, day by day, you may add to your effort and give importance to this
newspaper, for it shall progress step by step and shall attain to the praiseworthy
station.
The detailed Tablets of Abdul-Baha in regard to Exhortations
and Education are many. Ask for them and print them in the paper. You have
permission. Whenever, in the future, detailed Tablets are written, copies will be
sent to you for publication.
Upon ye be Baha-el-ABHA! (Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS
Extract from Tablet to Mirza Ahmad Sohrab in reference to
the foregoing Tablet: "A new Tablet is revealed for the Editors of the STAR OF THE
WEST. Translate and forward it to them. The volume of this newspaper, God
willing, will grow to the dimensions that you outline. There are many detailed and
general Tablets by Abdul-Baha upon purely exhortational matters, pertaining to
moral and spiritual development. Print them by degrees in the STAR OF THE WEST.
Likewise, whenever, in the future, you receive any detailed Tablets, you should
print them in its columns. God willing, the number of its subscribers shall also
increase."
Vol. 2:3 (April 28, 1911) Jamal
WORDS OF BAHA'O'LLAH.
O my servant! O Joseph! Hear the tone of God and do not compare this day with any
other day, neither the wonderful, sweet Word of God with any other words; look to
the apparent matters with thine own eye and do not follow anyone in knowing the
Greatest and Brilliant Orb.
In this day, the beloved of God must not hesitate or delay an
instant in teaching the Cause of the Manifestation, and must summon the people
continually, with great admonition and conciliating words, to the Religion of
Majestic Oneness; because, verily, in this day, to the soul who is the cause of
guidance to another soul the recompense of a martyr in the way of God will be
assuredly recorded by the Pen of the Cause, for his deed.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MATERIAL CIVILIZATION AND DIVINE CIVILIZATION.
TABLET FROM ABDUL-BAHA* To Mr. Arthur S. Agnew, Chicago Ill.
Upon him be BAHA'O'LLAH-el-ABHA!
HE IS GOD!
Thou Servant of the Beauty of ABHA!
I received thy letter, and the books that thou hadst sent have
been received. Convey, on my behalf, most wonderful ABHA, greetings unto Mr.
Herbert R. Windust, Miss Gertrude Buikema and Miss Mary Lesch. During hours of
leisure, when in the middle of the night I engage in supplications, I shall beg for
assistance and favor in their behalf. Indeed, they have made a great effort in the
printing and publication of the Letters (i. e., Tablets).**
As to the difference between the natural (i. e., physical or material civilization
which is in the present day in force, and the Divine civilization shall be of the
results of The House of Justice: The material civilization prevents and safeguards
people from committing evil deeds, through the force of the laws of retaliation
and correction. Thus, you see how prohibitory laws and rules of correction are
constantly in circulation and yet, by no means, any (adequate) law of retribution is
to be found; and in all the cities of Europe and America spacious prison buildings
have been founded and established for correcting and punishing the
criminals.
But the Divine civilization will so train
mankind that no soul will commit crimes, except rare (or few) individuals, which
exception is of no importance whatsoever. Consequently, there is much difference
between preventing people from evil actions and crimes through correction and
retaliation or through violent punishment, and so training them, enlightening them
and
* First of a series of Tablets containing Exhortations to moral and
spiritual development.
** Refers to the compilation of three volumes of "Tablets of Abdul-
Baha," by the Bahai Publishing Society in America.
page 4
spiritualizing them that they will shun crimes and evil deeds without any fear
(however) of punishment, prevention or retaliation. Nay, they will consider crimes
themselves as the greatest punishment and mightiest retribution, will be
attracted to the virtues of the human world and devotedly spend their lives in that
which is conducive to the enlightenment of mankind and to spreading qualities
acceptable in the Threshold of the Almighty.
Consequently, consider what a difference and distinction is
there between the material civilization and the Divine civilization! The natural
civilization prevents men from doing harm and wrong through force and
punishment and thus withholds them from committing crimes. But the Divine
civilization so trains men that the human individuals avoid sins without having
any fear from (material) punishment; and the very sin itself becomes unto them as
the severest punishment. And they will engage in acquiring human virtues, gaining
that by which mankind will be uplifted and that which will enlighten the human
world with the utmost zeal and fervor.
O Thou Creator! Bring the American friends nigh unto the
Kingdom of ABHA and suffer their deeds and actions to be in conformity with the
Commandments and Exhortations written in the Tablets. Make them firm in Thy
Love and steadfast in Thy Cause. Attract them unto the Bahai Beauty and cause
them to attain infinite warmth and fervor. Bestow upon them a firm footing and
give them a heavenly power in order that they may engage in Thy service and
spread the Signs of the Kingdom.
Thou art the Powerful, the Mighty! Thou art the
Compassionate, the Gracious, the Seer! Upon thee be Baha-el-ABHA!
Convey, on my behalf, the most wonderful ABHA, greeting to
his honor, Mr. MacNutt and Mrs. MacNutt.
Upon thee be Baha-el-ABHA!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
EXTRACT FROM RECENT TABLET TO THE FRIENDS IN KHORASSAN,
PERSIA.
The news of the attraction of the hearts of the believers of
God ignited the candle of happiness and created spiritual joy. Abdul-Baha travelled
to the land of Joseph of Canaan and became well known in the servitude of the Holy
Threshold. Although the attack of the sects and the false rumors and statements in
the newspapers are intense, yet it is my hope that this journey may become
fruitful and the Voice and Summons of the Cause of God may move these regions;
some seeds may be sown and watered and be assisted by the downpour of the rain
of the Mercy of the Almighty. Assuredly they will grow and become green and
verdant.
Praise be to God! that through the Bounty and Favor of the
Most Great Name -- May my life he a sacrifice to His believers -- the Voice of the
Cause of God is raised in all countries and the Fame and Melody of the Word of God
is spread in every region. In these days the Cause of God is progressing and
advancing in America, and in Asia there is the clamor of Turk and Tajik. The Bahais
have founded an English newspaper in the capital of Japan, which is edited and
circulated by his honor, the learned Professor Barakatullah, of India. Some of the
American believers are expecting to make a trip to China and Manchuria so that
they may raise the Voice of the Kingdom in those parts, and in Europe and Asia the
Trumpet of the Supreme Concourse is heard.
God be praised! Notwithstanding this divine, Majestic Cause,
the promotion of the Word of Cod and the diffusion of the Fragrances of God, a few
impotent ones, who are less than the flies, desire to break the Covenant and
violate the Testament. How fruitless and weak is their endeavor! The screech of
the owl is discordant before the Melody of the Kingdom and the cawing of the crow
is drowned before the harmony of the
page 5
Nightingale of Significance; the weak bat with its shattered broken wing cannot
soar with the white-winged Gabriel, and the darkness of humiliation and remorse
cannot cover the rays of the Sun of Truth. Were there any justice they would all
testify that this Pen is not moving the East and the West except through the
Confirmation of the Blessed Perfection, and this Melody is not imparting rejoicing
and delight to the world except through the assistance of the Most Great Name.
When the blind souls deny the existence of the sun, they think they have
accomplished a great feat, while heedless of the fact that they have proved more
than anything else their own ignorance.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol. 2:4 May 17, 1911 Azamat. Page 6
TABLET TO THE AMERICAN FRIENDS FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
Translate this Tablet in great haste, and with its original, print and spread.
(Signed) ABDUL BAHA ABBAS.
Through Mirza Ahmad Sohrab -- Upon him be BAHA'O'LLAH! -- TO the friends of God
and the maid-servants of the Merciful:
Upon them be BAHA'O'LLAH-EL-ABHA!
HE IS GOD!
O ye friends and the maidservants of the Merciful!
When the deposed Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Abdul
Hamid, arose in tyranny and oppression, Abdul-Baha was incarcerated in the prison
of Acca and was surrounded with the utmost surveillance of police, detectives and
men of the Secret Service. The door of communication was entirely closed and the
means of correspondence was prevented. If any soul approached the house he was
searched; nay, rather, threatened with dire persecution. The affairs reached to
such a degree that, not being satisfied with these restrictions, the Sultan sent an
oppressive investigating Commission, so that with all kinds of wiles, simulations,
slander and fabrication of false stories they might fasten some guilt upon Abdul-
Baha in order that he might crucify Him, or cast Him into the sea, or banish Him
into the heart of the distant and unknown Sahara of Feyzan (Africa). That
oppressive investigating Commission exercised its rights with tyranny and passed
the sentence that Abdul-Baha merited all kinds of persecution. Finally they
decided to send Him to Feyzan, and when they cabled this decision to the palace of
Abdul Hamid, an answer was received that the matter of Feyzan was approved by
the Imperial Order. Then that unjust investigating Commission returned to
Constantinople. They were in the midst of the sea when the cannon of God boomed
forth before the palace of Abdul Hamid, a charge of dynamite was exploded, a
number of people were killed, Abdul Hamid fled into the interior of his residence,
difficulties and trials surrounded him, and incidents and events developed rapidly.
Therefore he did not find the opportunity to oppress Abdul-Baha; public revolution
was started, which ended in his deposition, and the Hand of Divine Power released
the neck of Abdul-Baha from the chains of the prison of Joseph and the fetters and
manacles were placed around the unblessed neck of Abdul Hamid. Be ye
admonished, O ye people of insight! Now Abdul-Baha, with the greatest power, has
hastened to the country of Egypt from the land of prison. Praise be to God, that
through the Bounty and Providence of the Blessed Perfection, no sooner did he land
in Alexandria than the Word of God was promoted and the melody of the Kingdom of
ABHA was heard. All the newspapers wrote innumerable articles. Some gave the
utmost praise; others raised a great cry, saying: "The arrival of this personage in
this land will shake the pillars of Religion and will shatter to pieces ancient
customs and conventions. He attracts every one he meets and when he loosens his
tongue in any meeting, it creates faith in the hearts of the deniers." The papers are
still writing detailed articles and will continue to do so.
Now the friends and the maid-servants in America have
written innumerable letters and all of them are pleading that Abdul-Baha make a
trip to that country. Their supplications and entreaties are insistent. In view of
the differences among the friends and the lack of unity among the maid-servants
of the Merciful, how can Abdul-Baha hasten to those parts? Is this possible? No,
by God!
If the friends and the maid-servants of the Merciful long for
the visit of Abdul-Baha, they must immediately remove from their midst
differences of opinion and be engaged in the practice of infinite love and unity. No
Bahai must open his lips in blaming another one, he must regard backbiting as the
greatest sin of humanity, for it is clearly revealed in all the Tablets of
BAHA'O'LLAH that backbiting and faultfinding are the fiendish instruments and
suggestions of Satan and the destroyers of the foundation of man. A believer will
not blame any soul among the strangers, how much less against the friends.
Faultfinding and backbiting are the characteristics of the weak minds and not the
friends. Self-exaltation is the attribute of the stranger and not of the Beloved. It
is our hope that the believers and the maid-servants of the Merciful in America
may become the cause of the union of the East and the West, and unfurl the
Standard of the Oneness of the Realm of Humanity. Now, we observe that
strangeness, lack of unity and the utmost difference exists among the friends and
the maid-servants of the Merciful. Under such a condition, how can they arise to
guide the people of the world and establish union and harmony between the nations
of the earth? His Highness Christ, addressing His disciples said: "Ye are the salt of
the earth: but if the salt hath lost its savour, wherewith shall it be salted?"
page 7
O ye friends and maid-servants of the Merciful! If ye are yearning for my meeting,
and if in reality ye are seeking my visit, ye must close the doors of difference and
open the gates of affection, love and friendship. Ye must pulsate as one heart, and
throb as one spirit. You must be like the waves, though they are innumerable they
constitute the all-encircling sea.
O ye friends and maid-servants of the Merciful! Praise be to
God, ye are the fish of one ocean, the birds of one rose-garden, the trees of one
orchard and the flowers of one paradise. Then why this difference? why this lack
of harmony? Wherefore this condition?
Verily, verily, I say unto you, were it not for this difference
amongst you, the inhabitants of America in all those regions would have, by now,
been attracted to the Kingdom of God, and would have constituted themselves your
helpers and assisters. Is it meet that you sacrifice this most glorious Bounty for
worthless imaginations? No, by God! Should you reflect for one moment, you shall
become enabled to destroy instantly the foundation of this difference by
absolutely refraining from backbiting and faultfinding amongst yourselves. Adorn
with infinite love and concord the assemblage of beatitude, bring about the
meeting of happiness, establish the banquet of the oneness of the realm of
humanity, loosen your tongues in praising each other, and then anticipate the
presence of Abdul-Baha in your midst.
Aside from all these considerations, some of the nakazeens
have come secretly amongst you and are expressing their firmness in the Covenant
and with all kinds of intrigues and strategies are creating disorder and calamities,
so that ye might be deprived of the Lights of the Divine Testament and subjected
to the darkness of violation.
Is it worthy of you to be engaged with differences amongst
you and thereby enabling the nakazeens to spread a noose and chase such firm
believers as you are?
I beg of God to confirm you in union and concord that you may
become the cause of the oneness of the kingdom of humanity. Live and act in accord
with the Divine teachings, be abstracted from all the attachments of the human
world, characterized with merciful characteristics, release yourselves from the
nether world, become heavenly souls, spiritual beings and the angels of Paradise.
Upon ye be Baha-el-ABHA!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, April 28th, 1911.
RECORD OF THIRD ANNUAL CONVENTION OF BAHAI TEMPLE UNITY. ... MONDAY, MAY 1,
1911.
..The commune of silence was followed by Mr. Mills reading the following Tablet,
revealed by Abdul-Baha:
HE IS GOD!
O my God! O my God! We are servants who have sincerely
turned our faces unto Thy Grand Face; severed ourselves from all else save thee in
this Great Day and are assembled together in this glorious meeting of one accord
and desire, and unanimous in thought to promulgate Thy Word amid Thy
creatures.
O my Lord! O my Lord! Suffer us to be signs of guidance,
standards of Thy Manifest Religion throughout the world, servants of Thy Great
Covenant -- O our Exalted Lord! -- appearances of Thy Oneness in Thy Kingdom, the
El-ABHA, and stars which dawn forth unto all regions.
O Lord, make us as seas rolling with the waves of Thy Great
Abundance, rivers flowing from the mountains of Thy Glorious Kingdom, pure fruits
on the Tree of Thy illustrious Cause, plants refreshed and moved by the Breeze of
Thy Gift in Thy wonderful vineyard.
O Lord, cause our souls to depend upon the signs of Thy
Oneness, our hearts to be dilated with the Bounties of Thy Singleness, so that we
may become united as are ripples on a waving sea; become harmonized as are the
rays which shine forth from a
page 16
Brilliant light; so that our thoughts, opinions and feelings become as one reality
from which the spirit of accord may be diffused throughout all regions.
Verily, Thou art the Beneficent, the Bestower! Verily, Thou
art the Giver, the Mighty, the Loving, the Merciful!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol. 2:4 Page 16
[Prayer at the closing of the convention]
HE IS GOD!
O God! O God! Thou dost look upon us from Thine unseen
Kingdom of Oneness (beholding) that we have assembled in this Spiritual meeting,
believing in Thee, Confident in Thy signs, firm in Thy Covenant and Testament,
attracted unto Thee, set aglow with the fire of Thy love, sincere in Thy Cause,
servants in Thy vineyard, spreaders of Thy religion, worshippers of Thy
Countenance, humble to Thy beloved, submissive at Thy door and imploring Thee to
confirm us in the service of Thy chosen ones. Support us with Thine unseen hosts,
strengthen our loins in Thy servitude and make us submissive and worshipping
servants, communing with Thee.
O our Lord! We are weak, and Thou art
the Mighty, the Powerful! We are mortals and Thou art the Great Life-giving Spirit!
We are needy and Thou art the Powerful and Sustainer!
O our Lord! Turn our faces unto Thy Divine Face; feed us from
Thy heavenly table by Thy Godly grace; help us through the hosts of Thy supreme
angels and confirm us by the holy ones of the Kingdom of ABHA.
Verily, Thou art the Generous, the Merciful! Thou art the
Possessor of great bounty and verily Thou art the Clement and Gracious!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol. 2:5 June 5 1911 Nur.
Page 3
BRIEF ANSWERS TO SEVEN QUESTIONS.
TABLET FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
[Second of a series of Tablets containing exhortations to moral and spiritual
development.-ED.]
Through Mirza Ahmad Sohrab and Mirza Raffie, to Mr. and Mrs. Ostburg, Boston,
Mass.
HE IS GOD!
O ye two seekers of Truth!
Your letter was received and I became informed of its
contents. Some of the letters you have forwarded have not been received, while
others have been received at the time of the intense persecutions of the enemy, so
it was impossible to reply. When this last letter was received I found opportunity
to answer it, notwithstanding the multiplicity of occupations, so that you may
know how much ye are beloved in this spot and accepted in the Kingdom of God. As
there is little time, brief answers are given to your questions:
Answer to the first question: The spirits of the sons of the
Kingdom after the disintegration of this body ascend to the world of Eternal
Existence; but should you ask of the place, know thou that that world of existence
is the world of unity, but the grades are different. For instance, the mineral
existence has a grade, but that mineral being has no knowledge of the vegetable
kingdom. It (the mineral existence) has no information of a higher realm nay,
rather, according to appearances, it may deny the higher grade. Likewise the
vegetable life has no knowledge of the animal kingdom. It is entirely heedless and
unconscious of that kingdom, because the grade of the animal is higher than that of
the vegetable. The vegetable, according to its limited environment, is veiled from
the knowledge of the animal kingdom, and it may deny it, although the animal, the
vegetable and mineral live in the world of existence. Likewise, the animal cannot
comprehend the intelligence of the faculties of man, which is the generalizer of
the universal and the discoverer of the mysteries of beings, so much so that while
living in the East he organizes and founds institutions in the West, and he reveals
hidden things. Though he abides in Europe he discovers America. Though he dwells
upon the earth, he unravels the realities of the solar system. The animal is
entirely unconscious, nay, rather, a denier of this intelligent force, which
penetrates into the unknown and comprehends the general as well as the particular
ideas of this illimitable universe. Likewise the people of the world lack the
knowledge of the world of the Kingdom, nay, rather, they deny it. Do we not hear
from their lips the words, such as these: "Where is the Kingdom? Where is the Lord
of the Kingdom?" But these souls are like unto the mineral and vegetable who know
nothing of the animal and human kingdoms. They neither see nor search. However,
the mineral, the vegetable and the animal kingdoms all live in this world of
existence.
Answer to the second question: The Divine trials are in this
world not in the world of the Kingdom.
Answer to the third question: The human reality in the other
world has no physical likeness, nay, rather, it has the likeness of the Kingdom,
which consists of the harmonious element of the realm of the Spiritual
Kingdom.
Answer to the fourth question: The center of the Son of Truth
and of the Supreme World is the Divine Kingdom. Those souls who are purified and
sanctified, after the disintegration of this elemental tabernacle, hasten to the
Divine Realm, and that Realm is in this universe, but the people of this world have
no knowledge of it, just as the mineral and vegetable kingdoms have no knowledge
of the animal and human kingdoms.
page 4
Answer to the fifth question: His Highness, BAHA'O'LLAH, has
raised the Canopy of the Oneness of the Kingdom of Humanity. Whosoever enters
under the shade of this all-inclusive Tent, his heart and soul become detached
from other tents.
Answer to the sixth question: Whenever a difference of
opinion arises between two parties, refer it to the Center of the Covenant; so that
the difficulty might be solved.
Answer to the seventh question: His Highness, BAHA'O'LLAH,
has appeared for the benefit of all humanity, summoning all to the Divine Table
upon which is spread the Heavenly Food. But today the majority of those who
partake of this Heavenly Food are poor. That is why His Highness, Christ, said:
"Blessed are the poor." Wealth prevents the people from entering the Kingdom, as it
is stated by Christ: "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than
for a rich man to enter into the Kingdom of God." But should a rich person not be
prevented from entering the Kingdom because of wealth and riches, glory and
influence of this world, that rich person will become favored in the threshold of
the Almighty and accepted by the Lord of the Kingdom.
To be brief, BAHA'O'LLAH has manifested for the education
and training of all humanity. He is the Teacher of all, whether rich or poor, black
or white, oriental or occidental, northern or southern.
Regarding the people who come to Akka; some of them make
wonderful progress; extinguished lamps they were, they became ignited, withered
were they, they became fresh and young; dead were they, and they became alive,
returning to their respective countries electrified with the dynamic forces of the
Most Great Glad-Tidings. On the other hand, others have come and left without
being touched by this great force.
O ye two attracted ones towards the Kingdom: Thank ye God
that ye have made your house the gathering-place and the assembly of the
believers.
Upon thee be Baha-el-ABHA ! (Signed) ABDUL-BAHA
Abbas.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, February 22, 1910.
RECENT TABLETS FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
To the beloved of God and the maid-servants of the Merciful
-- New York (State):
Mrs. L. G. Stirling, Florence A. Cobb, Lilla A. Ressiguie, Clara A. Brink, Annie E.
Walrath, Dr. F. S. Blood, Wm. B. Remey, Harriet Rupert, Mrs. E. C. Woodworth, Pauline
Crandall, Mrs. B. Gustin, Mary M. Young, Bessie Knight, Ada C. Divine, Ella C. Quant,
Dr. W. E. House, Edith L. Whiting, Margaret La-Grange, Miss Bina Van Buren, Alice
House, F. W. Ackernecht, Mrs. Sarah Young, Elizabeth Chandler.
HE IS GOD!
O ye who are attracted to the Beauty of ABHA!
Your letter was received; it indicated that a new union and
harmony is created among those souls. This glad tiding produced a great happiness
and a new hope was seized that perchance the friends of New York, God willing,
may become united and harmonized with the heavenly power. Today the most
beloved and acceptable deed before His Highness, BAHA'O'LLAH, is the union of the
friends and the concord of men, and the most unacceptable is difference and
inharmony.
Praise be to God that ye have become
assisted with this Most Great Bounty, that is, unity and harmony, and become the
cause of the happiness of the heart of Abdul-Baha.
His Highness, BAHA'O'LLAH, said, That if Religion and Faith
become the cause of difference, enmity and hatred, undoubtedly its non-being is
better than its being. Consider ye how much emphasis He has placed upon love,
harmony and affection.
Upon ye he Baha-el-ABHA! (Signed) ABDUL-BAHA
ABBAS.
Translated by M.A. Sohrab, March, 1911.
Vol. 2:5 Page 5
To the believers of God and the maidservants of the Merciful,
Philadelphia. Upon them be BAHA'O'LLAH-EL-ABHA
Through Mirza Ahmad Sohrab. Upon him be BAHA'O'LLAH!
HE IS GOD!
O ye sons and daughters of the Kingdom!
It is some time since news has reached me from you. Today
the illumined photographs you forwarded fourteen months ago were received. By
looking at these pictures I remembered you and am writing you this tablet so that
you may know I have not forgotten you and am always engaged in your mentioning
and your illumined pictures are ever present.
O ye friends and maid-servants of the Merciful! It is easy to
advance toward the Kingdom, but it is difficult to remain firm and steadfast.
Therefore endeavor ye as much ye can to make your faith firm like unto a well-
rooted tree and produce blossoms and fruits. Neither be ye agitated on account of
the blowing winds of tests and trials. The firmer the roots of the tree the greater
its blossoms and fruits. Because the apostles of Christ remained firm and
steadfast they became assisted in the most great services and the confirmations
of the Holy Spirit descended upon them uninterruptedly. If ye seek the illumination
of the Kingdom ye must arise with infinite resolution. Be ye not discouraged or
lukewarm on account of troubles and vicissitudes. Show ye an effort so that that
region may be illumined, the Kingdom of God may raise its tents and the breaths of
the Ho]y Spirit may quicken the souls. Upon ye be Baha-el-ABHA!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, April 28, 1911.
Vol. 2:5 Page 6
Through Zia Effendi Bagdadi to Mrs. Cecilia M. Harrison, Chicago.
HE IS GOD!
O thou attracted maid-servant of God!
Your letter was received. From its contents, heart attracting
meanings were understood; for they indicated entire attraction by the Kingdom of
ABHA and the attachment of the heart to the Supreme World.
The chanting of the verses, whether done individually or
collectively, is the cause of manifesting the effect of the Word of God in the
hearts, and the means of igniting the fire of the love of God in the breasts. But it
is as thou hast written that the Condition required is, the hearts must become like
pure and polished mirrors, and the spirits attain perfect joy and happiness by the
divine glad-tidings.
Assuredly the blessed souls who direct their entire attention
to the Lord of Hosts, who are severed from the nether world and submerged in the
outpourings of the Realm of Might, if they travel in various parts of America,
associating with all and visiting the assemblies while surging with the love of
God, they will certainly be the cause of the unity of the friends and the maid-
servants of the Merciful. This is indeed most beloved and acceptable, productive of
great results and conducive of great good.
The enclosed paper sent by thee contained beautiful
expressions and delightful statements. I ask God that thou mayst awaken the
people of America thereby from the sleep of negligence and prove to be to them the
means of knowledge and wisdom.
Upon thee be Baha-el-ABHA (Signed)
ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Dr. Ameen U. Fareed, June 2, 1911.
TABLET TO THE BAHAIS OF ENGLAND FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
HE IS GOD.
O ye sons and daughters of the Kingdom!
Your letter which was written by heavenly inspiration,
whose contents and meanings are full of interest, and whose discrimination
springs from hearts that shine, has been received. Of a truth, the believers of
London, being steadfast servants, stand firm. They shall not slacken, nor, in the
lapse of time, shall their light grow dim. For they are Bahais, children of Heaven
and of the light of the Godhead. Surely, without doubt they shall be the cause of
spreading God's Word, and the channel for spreading the Divine Teachings and
bringing about the unity and equality of mankind.
It is easy to accept the Kingdom, but it is difficult to endure
therein for the tests are hard and heavy. On all occasions the English are firm and
are not turned aside, being neither prone to begin a matter for a little while nor
ready to abandon it for a little reason through failing in zeal. Verily in every
undertaking they show firmness.
Though you dwell in the West, praise he to God, you have
heard the Divine Call from the East, and like unto Moses you have become warmed
by the fire of the Tree that has been lighted in Asia, and you have found the true
Path, becoming kindled like lamps, having entered into the Kingdom of God. Now in
thanksgiving for this bounty you pray for blessing upon the people of the world,
till by light of the Kingdom of Splendour their eyes become illuminated and their
hearts become even as mirrors attaining the rays of the Sun of Truth.
My hope is this: - that the outbreathing of the Holy Spirit be
inspired into your hearts, that your tongues begin to reveal the mysteries and to
expound the meaning and the truth of the Holy Books. May the friends become
physicians to cure by the Divine Teachings the deep-rooted diseases of the body of
the world, to give sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf, life to the dead and
awakening to the sleepers. Be sure that the blessing of the Holy Spirit will
descend upon you, and that the Hosts of the Kingdom will come to your aid.
Upon you be the Glory of God! (Signed) ABDUL-BAHA
ABBAS.
Given at Ramleh, Egypt, May, 1911. Translated by Tamadun ul
Molk.
Vol. 2:5 Page 13
THE MASHRAK-EL-AZKAR IN AMERICA. TABLET FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
The maidservant of God, Mrs. Corinne True, Chicago. Upon her be BAHA'O'LLAH-EL-
ABHA!
HE IS GOD!
O thou dear maid-servant of God!
The question of the Mashrak-el-azkar is very important and
is superior to every matter; surely put forth utmost effort for it. In the fact that
you have registered the name of Abdul-Baha in the contribution book, I became
very happy.
Concerning his honor, M. Moustafa
Bagdadi, indeed he was an honorable person, who devoted his days to service in the
Kingdom of God, became confirmed in excellent services, a cause of guidance to
many, was firm in the Covenant, a promulgator of the Religion of God. Regarding
this a comforting letter was written to Zia Effendi.
The receipt you
have sent was received.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
The following was written by Abdul-Baha's own hand at the bottom of the
page:
HE (is GOD)!
O thou daughter of the Kingdom!
Today in America no matter is greater for the elevation of the Word of God than
the Mashrak-el-Azkar. Surely give it the utmost importance. I am always waiting
that a good report regarding the Mashrak-el-Azkar should come.
In most of the cities of Persia, even in some of the villages,
a Mashrak-el-Azkar has been founded.
Now the beloved in America must make effort to establish
one Mashrak-el-Azkar.
Upon thee be El-Baha-el-ABHA. (Signed)
ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
This double Tablet was translated by Dr. Zia M Bagdadi, June 1, 1911.
PORTION OF A RECENT TABLET TO MRS. I. D. BRITTINGHAM.
If the believers of God in New York and other cities of America establish, in a
befitting manner, union and harmony with spirit, tongue, heart and body, suddenly
they shall find Abdul-Baha in their midst. Unless this union is brought about, the
Breath of the Holy Spirit shall not have any effect, for the physical body must find
capacity, so that the life the Spirit may breathe through it. If the Beloved of the
union of the friends and the harmony of the believers become manifest, the East
and the West of America shall be perfumed through the sweet fragrance of the
Paradise of ABHA, the Mashrak-el-Azkar shall be constructed, the outpouring of
the Sun of Reality shall descend, the everlasting glory of the friends of God shall
become apparent and the heavenly life be attained.
Upon thee be Baha-el-ABHA! (Signed)
ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, April 28, 1911.
Vol. 2:6 (June 24, 1911) Rahmat
page 3
[Begins with an extract from the Lawh-i Sultan, taken from Browne's translation
in A Traveller's Narrative page 395 with stylistic amendments]
TABLET FROM ABDUL-BAHA TO THE SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF BAKU, RUSSIA.
Upon them be the Glory of God, the Most Glorious!
HE IS GOD!
O ye friends of God! O ye manifestors of bounties and favors of the Beauty of
ABHA!
That illumined Orb (BAHA'O'LLAH) hath risen from the horizon
of sanctity and holiness to shed Its Rays upon the expanse of the universe and that
mysterious Beloved hath rent assunder the veil of concealment and appeared in the
Assemblage of Humanity so that the wooers of His heart-captivating Beauty
attained to His meeting, and torrents of spiritual teachings have descended from
His Holy Lips, that we may be enabled to hear with the ear of the spirit, walk in
the Path of the Beloved; see His Attributes and Manners; behold His Character and
Principles; drink the Cup of Bestowal, taste the sweetness of His Reality, obey His
Religion and emulate His glorious Example.
O ye friends! His gentle nature was excellent and His sweet
disposition sublime. He was in the utmost humility and submission, and perfect
kindliness and praise. Worthy courtesy adorned His Being. He was a refuge for
every affrighted one; an asylum for every discomfitted one; a fountain for every
thirsty one; a Highway of Salvation for every wandering one; a healing to every
sick one, and a dressing for every wounded one. In brief, ye have undoubtedly heard
and read His Holy Instructions. But alas! we have entirely neglected them and are
pursuing our own desires, following our own opinions, seeking our own ideas, and
chasing our own shadows! Is it not a shame to change His Rose Garden into a
bramble patch? His Delectable Paradise into a ruined abode? To seek to eradicate
His Foundation and completely destroy His structure? To forget the Divine
Instructions and cast behind our backs
page 4
the Commands of God; with our lips to speak of the waves of the tumultuous Ocean,
while inwardly we are dying of thirst; and while claiming divine wealth of
consciousness, we are so poverty-stricken in spirit as to be but illusive phantoms
-- blown about by every wind?
I declare by the Bounty of the Blessed Perfection that
nothing will produce results save intense sincerity! Nothing will be productive of
fruit save complete advancement toward God! Everything is condemned save
severance and every idea is fruitless and unacceptable save supplication,
communion, prayer and obedience ! We must entirely collect our scattered
thoughts, purify and sanctify the house of our existence from every attachment
and make the palace of our hearts the nest and shelter of the Dove of Holiness.
Then, and not till then will the significance of confirmation and assistance
become evident and known, the power of the Kingdom become apparent, and the
hosts of the Supreme Concourse run swiftly into the arena of heavenly conquest, to
gain victory over the East and the West of the hearts, and make the North and
South of the spirits of men the flowery regions of the Love of God!
Praise be to God that the Province of Caucasia -- Baku -- is a
glorious light in the Lamp of Oneness, a wonderful effulgence from the Sun of
Beauty of the Divine Beloved. Its believers arc sincere and its friends are the
favored ones in the Threshold of Oneness.
Truly I say this is a most great Bounty and a most eminent
Gift!
Upon ye be the Glory of God
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol 2:6 page 5
PORTIONS OF TABLETS FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
Thou hast written concerning the meetings and gathering-
places of the believers of God. Such assemblies and gatherings will greatly aid the
promotion of the Word and all the audience, whether friends or not, will become
affected. But when the friends have the intention of entering into these meetings
they must disengage the heart from all other reflections, ask the Inexhaustible
Divine Confirmation, and with the utmost devotion and humility set their feet in
the gathering-place. Let them not introduce any topic in the meeting except the
mentioning of the True One, neither must they confuse that merciful assembly
with complex outside questions. They must either teach or open their tongue in
propounding arguments, either commune or supplicate and pray to God, either read
Tablets or give out advices and exhortations.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The
foundation of he spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the
Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maid-servants of the Merciful
must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of
the beauty of ABHA -- May my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile
they may read some Tablets, and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they
desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the
fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of
teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become
informed of the Divine Evidences and Proofs.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Thou hast inquired regarding the teachings and instructions
of BAHA'O'LLAH! Thou must instruct the people of the world in the Love of God, that
they may eradicate the foundation of warfare and strife, be attracted by the Glad-
tidings of the kingdom of ABHA, lay the basis of love and amity, raise the melody
of affinity, and the oneness of the Kingdom of humanity; transmute tyranny and
persecution into love and faithfulness efface the traces of bloodshed and carnage;
construct the edifice of reconciliation, dispel the darkness of estrangement,
diffuse the light of unity; change the poison of animosity into the honey of
sympathetic affection; destroy the religious, national and social prejudices from
the individuals of humanity; live and act, with and toward each other as though
they were from one race, one country, one religion, and one kind.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
But regarding teaching the Truth: One must teach with
wisdom, amiability, good-naturedness and kindness. And should anyone
circumscribe conditions (for teaching the Truth) it will become rare.
But concerning the established (organized assemblies),
altogether outside conversation must not be introduced therein. Nay, rather,
conversation must be limited to the reading of verses, the perusing of Words and
affairs which pertain to the Cause of God, such as explaining proofs and evidences,
delivering clear and irrefutable arguments and announcing the signs of the Beloved
of the creatures.
Those souls who are in that assembly before their entrance
therein must be adorned with utmost purity, turn their faces toward the Kingdom
of ABHA
page 6
and enter with infinite humility and meekness, and when someone reads Tablets
they must be silent and attentive. Should anyone desire to speak, he must do it
with the utmost courtesy and with perfect eloquence and fluency by the consent
and permission of the people of the assembly.
Upon thee be greeting and praise!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
The believers of God must assemble and associate with each
other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the
meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse
instructive articles, read the Tablets of Abdul-Baha, encourage and inspire each
other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and
fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord
and deliver eloquent speeches.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Thy mission in America for the present is this: Thou must
travel as far as possible to every part and pass through cities and towns,
summoning everyone to the Beauty of ABHA, raising the Call of the Kingdom and
proclaiming at the top of thy voice
"A hundred thousand glad-tidings be upon ye that the Sun of
the Reality of the Beauty of ABHA hath shone forth from the Horizon of the
Contingent Being and hath illumined the regions with the lights of the Most Great
Guidance. The realities of the Old Testament and the Gospel are already fulfilled
and the Mysteries of the Heavenly Books have become manifest. This is the century
of the Merciful One and the Period of Joy and Gladness. O ye heedless ones, become
mindful! O ye sleeping ones, be awakened! O ye blind ones, become seeing! O ye deaf
ones, become hearing! O ye dumb ones, become speakers! O ye dead ones, become
living! O ye deprived ones, take a portion! This is the effulgence of the Merciful and
the moving of the Depthless Sea. This is the outpouring of the wonderful and new
springtime and the falling of the showers of the Bounty of the Most Great Lord!"
This is thy mission.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Thy letter was received and read. Thou hast invited me to
America, saying: "In that region and in that country there are many fragrant and
multi-colored flowers; likewise there are thorns and thistles; but Abdul-Baha
should not look upon the thistles of the desert. He must hasten to that country for
the sake of the flowers." This simile is very beautiful; but when a gardener invites
a man to his garden, first he will arrange all the flowers with the utmost
elegance, beauty and art, then he will invite his guest. Moreover, there are
differences among the flowers. Therefore pray thou that harmony may be created
so that your country may find the capacity for the Presence of Abdul-Baha. I have
the utmost yearning to meet all of you; but unless the conditions which have been
previously mentioned are realized, my trip to those parts would be difficult, for it
would produce no results.
I hope that all the friends and the maid-servants of the
Merciful may be united with each other so that Abdul-Baha without any cloud may
travel from the East to the West. It is hoped that this unity may become realized.
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol. 2:6, page 8
FOUR QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS.
Questions, sent by Professor Cairns, Edinburgh, June 24th, 1910:
(1) Is it right to speak of the Bab and of Baha'o'llah as
Manifestations, or as Incarnations?
(2) Do the Bahais teach the doctrine of
reincarnation?
(3) Did Baha'o'llah claim to supersede the Revelation of
Jesus, the Christ?
(4) Did Baha'o'llah claim to be greater than Jesus, the
Christ?
Answers of Abdul-Baha (the servant of God), Haifa, July 20th, 1910
O daughter of the Kingdom!
Your letter has arrived. Its contents caused spiritual
happiness and heartfelt gladness.
I wish to answer in detail, but at present my health is not
very strong; I am fatigued, so am obliged to write in short. When I feel better, I
will write at length, for verily, you are occupied with the work of the Kingdom and
are serving the world of Humanity, and therefore are worthy of
correspondence.
Now I will write shortly.
1st Answer. The Bahais believe that the incarnation of the
Word of God, meaning the changing of the nature of Divinity into Humanity and the
transformation of the Infinite into the finite, can never be. But they believe that
the Bab and BAHA'O'LLAH are Manifestations of a Universal Order in the world of
humanity. It is clear that the Eternal can never be transient, neither the transient
Eternal.
Transformation of nature is impossible. Perfect man,
Manifestation, is like a clear mirror in which the Sun of Reality is apparent and
evident, reflected in its endless bounties.
2nd Answer. In the teaching of BAHA'O'LLAH, the
reincarnation of the spirit in successive bodies is not taught.
3rd Answer. BAHA'O'LLAH has not abolished the teachings of
Christ. He gave a fresh impulse to them and renewed them; explained and
interpreted them; expanded and fulfilled them.
4th Answer. BAHA'O'LLAH has not
claimed himself to be greater than Christ. He gave the following explanation: That
the Manifestations of God are the Rising Points of one and the same Sun; i.e., the
Sun of Reality is One, but the places of rising are numerous. Thus, Beauty is One,
but it is shining upon several mirrors.
Your own answers were good; and now I have myself
answered in short.
Upon you be the Glory of the Most Glorious!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Monever Khanum.
Vol. 2:7 & 8 page 11
RECENT TABLETS FROM ABDUL-BAHA.
Through Mirza Ahmad to Mr. Thornton Chase.
Upon him be BAHA'O'LLAH-EL-ABHA!
HE IS GOD!
O thou herald of the Kingdom!
I received thy two letters, an old one and one of recent date,
and both of them were read with the utmost attention. Praise be to God ! that thou
didst not waver before the tests; nay, rather thou didst remain firm and steadfast.
When the tree sends down its roots into the bowels of the earth, then, it will bring
forth blossoms and fruits. Now, Praise be to God ! that in this day of the kingdom
thou art firm and steadfast. Rest thou assured that thou wilt become the recipient
of confirmation and assistance and the object of infinite bounties.
Thou hast asked about the statement in the Hidden Words,
which reads: "O Son of Spirit ! Turn thy face so that thou mayest find Me within
thee. Powerful, Mighty and Supreme." This is the statement to which His Holiness
the Christ, referred His apostles in the Gospel, saying. "The Father is in the Son,
and the Son is in you."
page 12
This is evident that, when the hearts are purified and through
divine education and heavenly teachings become the manifestors of infinite
perfections, they are like clear mirrors, and the Sun of Truth will reflect with
might, power and omnipotence in such a mirror, and to such an extent that
whatever is brought before it is illumined and ignited. This is a brief
interpretation because of the lack of time. Therefore, do thou reflect and ponder
over it so that the doors of significance may be opened before thine eyes.
In regard to the philosophy of the
Theosophists, these people have borrowed some remarks and statements from the
heavenly Books, but they have not attained to the Reality. Notwithstanding this,
they have made these appearances the foundation of their faith and religion.
However, the reality of the question of Unity is thus: --
The Sun of Truth hath shone faith from the Horizon of Unity
upon all the regions. All contingent things are clad with the garment of existence
through the rays of the sun. Were it not for the rays of the sun no being would step
forth upon the arena of life. Everything would have remained hidden; nay, rather,
the life of the terrestrial beings is continued through the light and heat of the sun
to such an extant that all the infinitesimal atoms, which move through this realm
of earth, owe their life to the reflection of the sun. Of course, each being
manifests its inward tendencies according to its ability and capacity. However, no
matter how much the sun reflects itself through all the contingent beings, yet it
never leaves its supreme height and exalted station. It (the Divine Sun) is not
divided among these beings, so that every being may became a part and a portion of
Divinity.
Descent, division, transmission and transmigration in the
stations of life are the conditions of the contingent beings, but the Eternal Reality
is wholly beyond and above these conditions; for when you behold that a being is
subject to division, descent and disintegration, this is a proof of the contingency
and impermanency of that being. The Ancient, the Ever-living, and the omniscient
Lord, who is above the comprehension of humanity and is qualified with self-
existent perfections, will never descend to the stations of life, and will not be
divided so that every man may become an atom or a part of Him. Children can
understand the untenability of this proposition. This is the pure imagination of the
weak minds.
Therefore, according to their theory, the Manifestations of
God are infinite in number, and this would leave us to believe in the theory of the
"Concatenation of life"; but concatenation is false, and change is the essential
condition of the contingent realities, and not of the Eternal Reality. Ponder deeply
over the above explanation, so that it may become evident to thee that by Unity is
meant the outpourings of the Divine which appears and manifests in the realities
of all existence and especially in the unity of man.
The story of the cock that you have written is very
appropriate. (This refers to the play of Chanticleer wherein the Cock supposed the
sun to be caused
page 13
to arise through his crowing, until be was chagrined to learn
that its rising was independent of him and his voice.)
Associate with the utmost love and friendship with the
Theosophists, and make them comprehend this unity of humanity, which is the
unity of the outpouring of the Divine, so they may attain to the essence of the
facts.
In regard to the verse, which is revealed in the Koran, that
His Highness Christ, was not killed and was not crucified by this is meant the
Reality of Christ. Although they crucified this elemental body, yet the merciful
reality and the heavenly existence remain eternal and undying, and it was
protected from the oppression and persecution of the enemies, for Christ is
Eternal and Everlasting. How can He die? This death and crucifixion was imposed
on the physical body of Christ, and not upon the Spirit of Christ. * * *
Regarding my coming to America, it depends upon the
realization of conditions of which I have a]ready written to that country. If those
conditions are brought into fruition, rest thou assured that I will present myself,
otherwise, it will be difficult.
Upon thee be the Glory of God!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab, June 8, 1941. Washington, D. C.
Vol. 2:7 & 8 page 13
To the attracted maid-servant of GOD, Miss Juliet Thompson. Upon her be
BAHA'O'LLAH-EL-ABHA!
HE IS GOD!
O thou daughter of the Kingdom!
Thy letter was received and its contents became
evident.
If America attains to the capacity of the Presence of Abdul-
Baha, I will travel to that country and all the difficulties shall be solved.
There is no doubt that the tests are severe. The more a soul
resists and shows firmness and steadfastness, the greater will be his progress,
and he shall soar to the sublimest heights of the Kingdom. * * *
O thou daughter of the Kingdom! Thou hast expressed the hope
of my Presence in America. It depends upon capacity and merit.
O thou who art attracted to the fragrances of God ! Endeavor
thou as far as thou canst to become the cause of the unity and harmony amongst
the believers of God. * * *
Announce on my behalf to Mrs. MacNutt "I do not forget thee
and my beloved friend, Mr. McNutt, for one breath; nay, rather, I beg continually for
your divine confirmations and supreme assistance." * * *
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab. June 3. 1911.
Vol. 2:9 Aug 20, 1911, Kamal.
page 3.
[Reprinted from the Christian Commonwealth, Aug. 2, 1911]
.... Great interest was aroused on Thursday during the discussion on Abdul-Baha's
letter to the congress, the full text of which follows:
Alexandria, May 29, 1911.
"To the President, First Universal Races Congress.
My Dear Friend: -- Your letter of invitation has been received,
and I am much obliged for it. It is my utmost desire to be present at such a
gathering, for I am thoroughly confident that beneficial results shall surely follow
these meetings, and that they
page 4
will become the means of establishing friendship and love among the world's
different races. Thus the basis of enmity may be destroyed and the tent of unity of
the world of humanity be raised throughout all regions.
I regret much that circumstances may prevent me from
attending, but I will endeavor as much as lies in my power to attend. Failing to do
so, pray excuse me.
With a sincere heart I supplicate at the Divine Threshold that
this congress may be successful in founding a noble institution which shall be
permanent and everlasting; that it may ignite a candle from which a heavenly light
shall beam, and plant a tree whose fruit may be friendship, love and unity between
all the children of men, so that conflict and warfare may be abolished, and
patriotic, racial, religious and political prejudices become unknown. Peace should
replace strife, enmity be superseded by love, estrangement annihilated, and unity
established. The what has been spoken of in the heavenly books will become well
rotted in the hearts of all, and the glad-tidings of the sacred writings be fulfilled.
In conclusion I offer my utmost appreciation and respect to such a blessed
congress. (Sig.) ABBAS."
Vol. 2:9 page 5
LETTER FROM 'ABDU'L BAHA TO THE FIRST UNIVERSAL RACES
CONGRESS
When travelling about the world we
observe an air of prosperity in any country, we find it to be due to the existence of
love and friendship among the people. If, on the contrary, all seems depressed and
poverty-stricken, we may feel assured that this is the effect of animosity, and of
the absence of union among the inhabitants.
Notwithstanding that such a state of things is obvious to the
passing traveller, how often the people themselves continue in the sleep of
negligence, or occupy themselves in disputes and differences, and are even ready
to slaughter their fellow-men!
Consider thoughtfully the continual integration and
disintegration of the phenomenal universe. . . . Unification and constructive
combination is the cause of Life. Disunion of particles brings about loss,
weakness, dispersion, and decay.
Consider the varieties of flowers in a garden. They seem but
to enhance the loveliness of each other. When differences of color, ideas, and
character are found in the human Kingdom, and come under the control of the power
of Unity, they too show their essential beauty and perfection.
Rivalry between the different races of mankind was first
caused by the struggle for existence among the wild animals. This struggle is no
longer necessary: nay, rather interdependence and co-operation are seen to produce
the highest welfare in nations. The struggle that now continues is cased by
prejudice and bigotry.
To-day nothing but the power of the Divine Word, which
embraces the Reality of all things, can draw together the minds, hearts, and
spirits of the world under the shadow of the heavenly Tree of Unity.
The Light of the Word is now shining on all horizons. Races
and nations, with their different creeds, are coming under the influence of the
Word of Unity in love and in peace.
The Blessed One, Baha'u'llah, likens the existing world to a
tree, and the people to its fruits, blossoms and leaves. All should be fresh and
vigorous,
page 6
the attainment of their beauty and proportion depending on the love and unity with
which they sustain each other and seek the Life eternal. The friends of God should
become the manifestors in this world of this mercy and love. They should not
dwell on the shortcomings of others. Ceaselessly should they be thinking how they
may benefit others and show service and co-operation. Thus should they regard
every stranger, putting aside such prejudices and superstitions as might prevent
friendly relations.
To-day the noblest person is he who bestows upon his enemy
the pearl of generosity, and is a beacon-light to the misguided and the oppressed.
This is the command of Baha'u'llah.
O dear friends! the world is in a warlike condition, and its
races are hostile one to the other. The darkness of difference surrounds them, and
the light of kindness grows dim. The foundations of society are destroyed and the
banners of life and joy are overthrown. The leaders of the people seem to glory in
the shedding of blood -- Friendship, straightness, and truthfulness are
despised.
The call to arbitration, to peace, to love, and to loyalty is the
call of Baha'u'llah. His standard floats since fifty years, summoning all of what
ever race and creed.
O ye friends of God! acknowledge this pure light; direct the
people who are in ignorance, chanting the melodies of the Kingdom of God, until the
dead body of mankind quickens with a new life.
Guide the people of God. Inspire them to emulate the lives of
the holy ones who have gone before. Be ye kind in reality, not in appearance only.
Be ye fathers to the orphans, a remedy to the sick, a treasury of wealth to the
poor, a protector of the unfortunate.
Where love dwells, there is light! Where animosity dwells,
there is darkness!
O friends of God! strive to dissipate the darkness and reveal
the hidden meanings of things, until their Reality becomes clear and established in
the sight of all.
This Congress is one of the greatest of events. It will be
forever to the glory of England that it was established at her capital. It is easy to
accept a truth; but it is difficult to be steadfast in it; for the tests are many and
heavy. It is well seen that the British are firm, and are not lightly turned aside,
being neither ready to begin a matter for a little while, nor prone to abandon it for
a little reason. Verily, in every undertaking they show firmness.
O ye people! cause this thing to be not a thing of words, but
of deeds. Some congresses are held only to increase differences. Let it not be so
with you. Let your effort be to find harmony. Let Brotherhood be felt and seen
among you; and carry ye its quickening power throughout the world. It is my prayer
that the work of the Congress will bear great fruit. ABDU'L BAHA 'ABBAS.
Vol. 2:10 (September 8, 1911) Eizzat
Page 3
TABLETS FROM ABDUL-BAHA. Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab.
To Mohammad Ali Khan, Teheran, Persia.
HE IS GOD!
O thou intimate companion!
The flame of reformation is ignited in
the heart and soul of Persia and the spirit of every real reformer is longing for
better conditions. For Persia is sick and is suffering with intense agony. But the
children of the East are abiding under the shade of the banner of discord and are
completely heedless and veiled Now, what remedy can be applied! The sick Persia
is flying away from the physician; nay, rather that thirsty one is depriving himself
of the sea of the salubrious water of health. Therefore, this exiled one has found
no other alternative than to turn his face towards the West and raise the melody
of the Kingdom; for to a certain degree the insight of the people in those parts is
open and they are familiar and associate with reason and understanding. When
Joseph found that his envious brothers and his jealous relations and friends were
heedless and unmindful, he unveiled his face in the market of the Egyptians, so
that in exile he might destroy the foundation of strangeness and raise the banner
of unity. Therefore, it is the aim of this exiled one, that, God willing, he may
become the Herald and carry the gladtidings of the Kingdom to the empires of the
West. Perchance the splendor of the Beauty of the real Joseph -- the Most Great
Name -- May my life be a sacrifice to Him -- may shine from the countries of the
Occident; and I beg of God that the glances of mercifulness may assist.
I hope that the bounties of the True One may become realized
in thee, but it is conditional upon thy serving the Real Master and living in accord
with the manners and behavior of the real Bahais and showing the utmost sincerity
and beauty of intention. Upon thee be the Glory of God!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
To Anna M. Dahl, Pittsburgh, Pa.
HE IS GOD!
O thou seeker of Truth!
Thy letter was received and thy thankfulness became evident.
Glorification of God is the cause of attraction of confirmation and draws down the
bounties of the Glorious Lord. Therefore the glances of the providence of
page 4
the True One shall ere long encircle all the family. I pray God that Pittsburgh may
be blessed. It is not permitted to distribute Bahai pamphlets and literature
through the streets and markets.** On account of the lack of time a brief answer
is given.
Upon thee be the Glory of God! (Signed.) ABDUL-BAHA
ABBAS.
To Adolph M. Dahl, Pittsburgh, Pa.
HE IS GOD!
O thou servant of God!
Thy letter was received. Praise be to
God, that the call of the Kingdom of ABHA reached Pittsburgh. Should the friends of
God show firmness and steadfastness, the ray of the light of the Kingdom of ABHA
will shine and that state and city will become illuminated.
Endeavor thou that thou mayest study the Persian language
thoroughly, so that thou mayest read the Tablets of BAHA'O'LLAH and comprehend
their meanings.
**In reality, if someone should go to the Netherlands and
engage in teaching the Truth great results would follow. Although such a person
cannot he found for the present, yet before long he shall be discovered.
I supplicate and entreat at the Kingdom of ABHA and ask
heavenly confirmation for thee. Perchance, God willing. at some future date we
may meet each other.
Upon thee be the Glory of God! (Signed) ABDUL-BAHA
ABBAS.
Through the maid-servant of God, Mrs. Helen S. Goodall, to the Members of the
Assembly of Abdul-Baha, San Francisco, California.
HE IS GOD!
O ye faithful friends!
The maid-servant of the Kingdom of BAHA'O'LLAH has written
the joyful news that the friends in that region have established an Assembly, have
engaged in the spreading of the teachings of God and have arisen with the utmost
endeavor, sincerity of intention, and enkindlement with the fire of the Love of God
so that that country may become a main-spring of the signs, and that city become
illumined, and a number of souls like stars of the Horizon of Holiness may shine in
the assemblage of the Kingdom of man (humanity).
This Assembly was organized at the right time. It is my hope
that it may become a magnet of confirmation. If it remain firm and steadfast this
Assembly will become so illumined that it will be a full, refulgent moon in the
Horizon of everlasting Glory.
Report and write to me the services which are accomplished
by this Assembly so that they may become the cause of spiritual happiness and joy
to the heart.
Upon thee be the Glory of God! (Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
Vol. 2:10, Page 8
Extract from a Tablet received by Aga Mirza Taraz-o-llah of
Gazwin, Persia, concerning the STAR OF THE WEST:
In regard to the STAR OF THE WEST
which in Rasht fell into the hands of strangers. There was a wisdom in this. It will
have great effect in the future. The editors of the newspapers are mistaken. The
literature of the Bahais has encircled the world and not alone Persia. The derision
and the scorn of the editors of the newspapers will be the cause of their own
undoing and regret. They must loosen their tongues in thankfulness and praise and
glorification that -- Praise he to God! Persia has found such influence in America
that a magazine like unto the STAR OF THE WEST is founded. This behooveth them
to be thankful and not complain. This is the cause of the glory of Persia and the
Persians and not their shame. How long this community does not behold the
wonders and miracles of Thy Lord!
(Signed) ABDUL-BAHA ABBAS.
page 8
ADDRESS BY ABDUL BAHA [At the City Temple, London. This is almost identical to
the version in 'Abdu'l-Baha in London. Some of the differences (word order, plural
for singular, etc,) may be simply accidental, others are corrections of minor
grammatical errors in this version.]
"O noble friends, seekers after God, praise be to God! To-day the light of truth is
shining upon the world in its abundance. The breezes of the heavenly garden are
blowing throughout all regions. The call of the kingdom is heard in all lands, and
the breath of the Holy Spirit is felt in all hearts that are faithful. The Spirit of
God is giving life eternal. In this wonderful age the East is enlightened, the West
is fragrant, and everywhere the soul inhales the holy perfume. The sea of the unity
of mankind is lifting up its waves with joy; for there is real communication
between the hearts and minds of men. The banner of the Holy Spirit is uplifted, and
men see it, and are assured with the knowledge that this is a new day. This is a
new cycle of human power. All the horizons of the world are luminous, and the
world will become indeed as a garden and a paradise. It is the hour of unity of the
sons of men, and a drawing together of all races and all classes. You are loosed
from ancient superstitions which have kept men ignorant, destroying the
foundations of true humanity. The gift of God of this enlightened age is the
knowledge of the oneness of mankind and the fundamental oneness of religion. War
shall cease between nations, and by the will of God the Most Great Peace shall
come; the world will be seen as a new world, and all men shall live as brothers. In
the days of old an instinct for warfare was developed in the struggle with wild
animals; this is no longer necessary; nay, rather, co-operation and mutual
understanding are seen to produce the greatest welfare of mankind. Enmity is now
the result of prejudice only. In the 'Hidden Words' Baha'u'llah says 'Justice is to be
loved above all.' Praise be to God, in this country the standard of justice has been
raised; a great effort is being made to give all souls an equal and a true place. This
is the desire of all noble natures. This is to-day the teaching for the East and for
the West; therefore, the East and the West will understand each other and
reverence each other, and embrace like long-parted lovers who have found each
other. There is one God; mankind is one; and the foundations of religion are one. Let
us worship Him, and give praise for all his great prophets and messengers who
have manifested his brightness and glory. The blessing of the Eternal One be with
you in all his riches, that each soul according to his measure may take freely of
him! Amen.
After the service, in the City Temple vestry, Abdul Baha
wrote a few sentences In Persian In the pulpit Bible and added his signature, as
follows:
This book is the Holy Book of God, of celestial inspiration. It
is the Bible of Salvation, the noble Gospel. It is the mystery of the Kingdom and its
light. It is the Divine Bounty, sign of the guidance of God. -- Abdu'l Baha Abbas.
--------end of Book 1 (Vol.1 and Vol.2 to Number 11)-------
Table of Contents
Volume One
Volume Two