On the Two Loves

by Abdu'l-Bahá

translated by Khazah Fananapazir.
published in Selections from the Writings of His Holiness ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’, 2, Section 72
2001-12
originally written as "‘Ishq-i-Majázi wa ‘Ishq-i-Haqíqí" in Persian.

   O ye lovers of the Abhá Beauty! When the thoughts of those attached to the contingent world become attracted to the colours and physical beauty in this world of dust they become so enamoured of it that they are ready to give their life for it. They forget themselves and will billow forth like unto the ocean. They seek neither a settled life, nor comfort nor rest. Every eventide they are tearful in love and every dawn they burn with longing. Consider if this is the condition of those in love with contingent and ephemeral things what then must be the state of those who are lovers of the True Beloved and what cries of ardour and love must ascend from their hearts. If the love of the world of dust can cause such ardour and ecstasy then it is should be obvious what the love of the Spirit of sanctity will achieve. This day is the day that the lovers of the Abhá Beauty must needs show self-sacrifice and haste to the field of martyrdom in His love. They must vouchsafe the spirit of life and kindle the lamp of the Merciful One. They must sing the accents of ‘Iráq and the melodies of Hijáz so that hearts may be moved and souls may be quickened and all spirits may be animated by spiritual vitality. Thereby will a divine celebration be set up and the banquet of the love of God be in full swing so that the melodies of that joyous assembly and the chants and songs of those peerless gatherings may reach the heights of the divine empyrean and the denizens of the Concourse on high may become joyful and exhilarated.