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MESSAGES FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
1963-1986
*************************************
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+i
MESSAGES FROM THE
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
1963-1986
THE THIRD EPOCH OF THE FORMATIVE AGE
+ii
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+iii
MESSAGES FROM THE
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
1963-1986
THE THIRD EPOCH OF THE FORMATIVE AGE
compiled by Geoffry W. Marks
Bahá'í Publishing Trust
Wilmette, Illinois 60091
+iv
Bahá'í Publishing Trust, Wilmette, Illinois 60091-2844
Copyright @ 1996 by the National Spiritual Assembly
of the Bahá'ís of the United States
All rights reserved. Published 1996
Printed in the United States of America
99 98 97 96 4 3 2 1
Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Messages from the universal house of justice, 1963-1986 : the
third epoch of the formative age / compiled by Geoffry W.
Marks.
ISBN 0-87743-239-2
1. Bahá'í Faith. I. Marks, Geoffry W., 1949-
BP320.M47 1996
297'.93-DC20
96-43430
+v
OCCASION WORLDWIDE CELEBRATIONS MOST GREAT JUBILEE
COMMEMORATING CENTENARY ASCENSION BAHA'U'LLAH THRONE HIS
SOVEREIGNTY WITH HEARTS OVERFLOWING
GRATITUDE HIS UNFAILING PROTECTION OVERFLOWING BOUNTIES
JOYOUSLY ANNOUNCE FRIENDS EAST WEST ELECTION SUPREME
LEGISLATIVE BODY ORDAINED BY HIM IN HIS MOST HOLY
BOOK PROMISED BY HIM RECEIVE HIS INFALLIBLE GUIDANCE. MEMBERS
FIRST HISTORIC HOUSE JUSTICE DULY ELECTED BY DELEGATES
COMPRISING MEMBERS FIFTY-SIX NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES ARE
CHARLES WOLCOTT ALI NAKHJAVANI H BORRAH KAVELIN IAN SEMPLE
LUTFU'LLAH HAKIM DAVID HOFMAN HUGH CHANCE AMOZ
GIBSON HUSHMAND FATHFAZAM. TO JUBILATION ENTIRE BAHA'I
WORLD VICTORIOUS COMPLETION BELOVED GUARDIAN'S UNIQUE
CRUSADE NOW ADDED HUMBLE GRATITUDE PROFOUND THANKSGIVING
FOLLOWERS BAHA'U'LLAH FOR ERECTION UNIVERSAL
HOUSE JUSTICE AUGUST BODY TO WHOM ALL BELIEVERS MUST
TURN WHOSE DESTINY IS TO GUIDE UNFOLDMENT HIS EMBRYONIC
WORLD ORDER THROUGH ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS PRESCRIBED BY
BAHA'U'LLAH ELABORATED BY `ABDU'L-BAHÁ LABORIOUSLY ERECTED BY
SHOGHI EFFENDI AND ENSURE EARLY DAWN
GOLDEN AGE FAITH WHEN THE WORD OF THE LORD WILL COVER
THE EARTH AS THE WATERS COVER THE SEA.
HAIFA, 22 APRIL 1963 HANDSFAITH
+vi
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
[Pages vii. to xxv. (the Table of Contents) have been moved.]
+xxvi
PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+xxvii
Foreword
On 21 April 1963, one hundred years after Bahá'u'lláh's public
declaration of His world-redeeming mission, the first
International Bahá'í Convention was held on the majestic
slopes of Mount Carmel in Haifa, Israel. The purpose of this
momentous gathering was to elect, for the first time, the
Universal House of Justice, the supreme governing and
legislative body of the Bahá'í Faith.
The election of the Universal House of Justice was greeted
with great joy by the worldwide Bahá'í community, for it
ensured the continuation of divine guidance until the advent
of the next Manifestation of God, thereby fulfilling the
prophecy that there would come a "Day which shall not be
followed by night."
The continuation of divine guidance-the primary theme of this
Book is a unique feature of the Bahá'í Faith. Unlike any of
the Manifestations of God Who preceded Him, Bahá'u'lláh, the
Founder of the Bahá'í Faith, made a Covenant with His
followers to direct and channel the forces released by His
Revelation, guaranteeing the continuity of infallible guidance
after His death through institutions to which all of His
followers must turn. In His will and testament Bahá'u'lláh
designated His eldest son, Abdu'l-Baha, His successor, the
authoritative Interpreter of His writings, and the Center of
His Covenant. In His own will and testament 'Abdu'l-Bahá
perpetuated the Covenant through the Administrative Order
ordained in Bahá'u'lláh's writings. 'Abdu'l-Bahá appointed as
His twin successors the institutions of the Guardianship and
the Universal House of Justice. He named His eldest grandson,
Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Cause of God and expounder
of the Word of God, while giving the Universal House of
Justice the role of legislating on matters not explicitly
revealed in the writings of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá or
dealt with by Shoghi Effendi.
Writing about the Universal House of Justice, Bahá'u'lláh
explained that, "Inasmuch as for each day there is a new
problem and for every problem an expedient solution, such
affairs should be referred to the Ministers of the House of
Justice that they may act according to the needs and
Requirements of the time.... It is incumbent upon all to be
obedient unto them." Moreover,
+xxviii
FOREWORD 'Abdu'l-Bahá asserts in His Will and
Testament that "Unto the Most Holy Book every one must turn,
and all that is not expressly recorded therein must be
referred to the Universal House of Justice. That which this
body, whether unanimously or by a majority doth carry, that
is verily the Truth and the Purpose of God Himself."
Thus the fundamental purpose of the Universal House of Justice
is to ensure the continuity of the divine guidance that flows
from the Source of the Faith, to safeguard the unity of its
followers, and to maintain the integrity and flexibility of
its teachings. Its origin, its authority, its duties, and its
sphere of action are all derived from the writings of
Bahá'u'lláh. His writings, along with those of Abdu'l-Baha and
of Shoghi Effendi constitute its bedrock foundation and its
binding terms of reference.
Messages from the Universal House of Justice, 1963-1986. - The
Third Epoch of the Formative Age brings together letters,
cables, telexes, and electronic mail messages sent to Bahá'í
institutions and individuals during a twenty-three-year period
that the Universal House of Justice has called the Third Epoch
of the Formative Age of the Faith. The Formative Age stands
between the Heroic Age (1844-1921), which is associated with
the ministries of the Bab (the Prophet-Herald of the Bahá'í
Faith), Bahá'u'lláh, and Abdu'l-Baha, and the Golden Age,
which will witness the dawning of the Most Great Peace, the
emergence of a commonwealth of all the nations of the world,
and the advent of the Kingdom of God on earth.
The First Epoch of the Formative Age (1921-44/46) saw the
birth of the Bahá'í Administrative Order and the primary
stages in the erection of its framework. This epoch was
characterized by its focus on forming local and national
institutions in all the continents, thereby laying the
foundation needed to support future systematic teaching
activities.
The First Epoch also witnessed the initiation of the first
Seven Year Plan (1937-44), at the direction of Shoghi Effendi,
by the Bahá'ís of the United States and Canada. This plan,
inspired by 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Tablets of the Divine Plan,
constituted the Bahá'í community's first systematic teaching
campaign and began the initial stage of carrying out
'Abdu'l-Bahá's Divine Plan in the Western Hemisphere.
The Second Epoch of the Formative Age (1946-63) witnessed the
further development and maturation of the Administrative Order
and the execution of a series of teaching plans that carried
the Faith beyond the confines of the Western Hemisphere and
Europe. Its two most distinguishing characteristics were the
rise and steady consolidation of the World Center of the Faith
in Haifa, including the appointment of the Hands of the Cause
of God, the introduction of the Auxiliary Boards, and the
establishment of the International Bahá'í Council, and the
simultaneous and often spontaneous prosecution of Bahá'í
national plans in both the East and the West. Shoghi Effendi
now used the internally consolidated and administratively
experienced National
+xxix
FOREWORD
Spiritual Assemblies to launch the Ten Year World Crusade
(1953-63) in which he summoned the twelve existing National
Spiritual Assemblies to participate in one concentrated,
united effort to spread the Faith more widely throughout the
world. This enterprise resulted in the opening Of 131
countries to the Faith, the formation of forty-four National
Spiritual Assemblies, and a vast increase in the ethnic
diversity of the Bahá'í community. However, the victorious
completion of the Ten Year World Crusade came with a heavy
price. In 1957, midway through the Crusade, Shoghi Effendi
died unexpectedly of a heart attack. The Bahá'ís were
devastated. Not only were they deprived of their Guardian, but
they were also deprived of their source of divine guidance.
The Guardianship was a hereditary office, and Shoghi Effendi
had left no heir.
How would the unity of the Faith be preserved? How could the
conflict and contention that has divided other religions be
prevented? Clearly, unless the Bahá'í Faith could safeguard
its unity, it could never hope to unify a sorely divided
world. Into this chasm of doubt and despair stepped the Hands
of the Cause of God, whom Shoghi Effendi had appointed and to
whom he had referred as the "Chief Stewards of Bahá'u'lláh's
embryonic World Commonwealth who have been invested by the
unerring Pen of the Center of His Covenant with the dual
function of guarding over the security, and of insuring the
propagation, of His Father's Faith." Through their heroic
stewardship they guided the community along the course Shoghi
Effendi had set. By the end of the nearly six-year interregnum
they had not only preserved the unity of the Faith but also
inspired a surge of sacrificial service leading to the Ten
Year Crusade's victorious conclusion and crowning achievement,
the culminating event of the Second Epoch-the election of the
Universal House of Justice.
The Universal House of Justice proclaimed in a letter dated
October 1963 that the Third Epoch of the Formative Age had
begun. Outlining what would become the distinctive
characteristics of the new epoch, it said the Bahá'í Faith
"must now grow rapidly in size, increase its spiritual
cohesion and executive ability, develop its institutions and
extend its influence into all strata of society." Moreover,
its members, must, by constant study of the life-giving Word,
and by dedicated service, deepen in spiritual understanding
and show to the world a mature, responsible, fundamentally
assured and happy way of life, far removed from the passions,
prejudices and distractions of present day society.
The Third Epoch called the Bahá'ís of the world to a yet more
mature level of functioning that would be consistent with
expected vast increases in the community's size and diversity,
its emergence as a model to humankind, and the extension of
its influence in the world at large.
+xxx
FOREWORD
The nature of individual and community maturity for which the
Universal House of Justice called is evident as one reads the
book. Through the release of translations and compilations of
Bahá'í writings and through a voluminous correspondence in
which perplexing questions about various personal and social
problems are discussed, the Universal House of Justice guides
individuals and communities in their efforts to live a Bahá'í
life. Matters of spiritual growth, sexual morality, relations
between husband and wife, family life, prejudice, politics,
possession of firearms, ranks and stations in the Faith, the
tests of Bahá'í community life, and the suffering of humanity
are a few of the topics of individual and community life that
are addressed. Numerous accounts of the vicious persecution
of the Iranian Bahá'ís and of their efforts and the efforts
of the Bahá'í communities around the world to help them
testify to the spiritual and administrative maturation of the
worldwide Bahá'í community.
The increasing maturity of the worldwide Bahá'í community is
further evidenced as the Universal House of Justice guides the
Bahá'í community to progressively more mature levels of
functioning through three major world teaching plans conducted
during the Third Epoch of the Formative Age: the Nine Year
Plan (1964-73), the Five Year Plan (1974-79), and the Seven
Year Plan (1979-86). Among the results and achievements won
during these three plans are the faiths gradual emergence from
obscurity, its assumption by the Universal House of Justice
of the role of a promoter of world peace, the initiation of
activities intended to foster social and economic development,
the establishment of the Continental Boards of Counselors and
the International Teaching Center, the introduction of
assistants to the Auxiliary Boards, and one of the crowning
events of the Third Epoch-the construction and occupation of
the seat of the Universal House of Justice at the World Center
of the Faith.
The publication of Messages from the Universal House of
Justice, 1963-1986. The Third Epoch of the Formative Age comes
ten years after the inauguration of the Fourth Epoch. Although
the Bahá'í Faith is well into this new stage of development,
and new patterns of growth and change are evident, yet the
study of the messages contained in this volume yields a
treasure of insight, knowledge, and understanding of the
principles guiding the unfoldment of the Bahá'í Faith and the
efforts of individuals and communities as they strive to adopt
the pattern of life prescribed by Bahá'u'lláh. Moreover, the
inclusion of virtually every major message of the Third Epoch
enables one to survey significant developments in the organic
growth of the Bahá'í world community, to follow its increasing
maturity and acquisition of new powers and capacities, to
perceive a continuity in its development, and to detect
patterns in the interplay between the forces of light and
darkness, between crisis and
+xxxi
FOREWORD
victory. Individuals, communities, and institutions will find
the book an important aid in making decisions as they apply
themselves to meeting current challenges and will derive
continual inspiration and encouragement from the majestic
pronouncements, authoritative elucidations, and ennobling,
luminous, and loving counsels of the Universal House of
Justice. The messages themselves are sufficient proof that the
Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh is unbroken, that the channel of
divine guidance remains open, and that "the Day which shall
not be followed by night" has at last dawned upon the world.
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE BAHA'IS OF THE UNITED
STATES
+xxxii
PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+xxxiii
A Note from the Compiler
Messages from the Universal House of Justice, 1963-1986.- The
Third Epoch of the Formative Age brings under one cover 456
letters, cables, telexes, and electronic mail messages from
the Universal House of Justice to Bahá'í institutions, to
Bahá'ís gathered at special events, to individuals, or -- in
one case -- to the peoples of the world.
A volume long overdue, it enlarges upon and replaces two
earlier compilations of messages: Wellspring of Guidance:
Messages, 1963-1968, published in 1969, and Messages from the
Universal House of Justice, 1968-1973, published in 1976. In
preparing the new volume several factors where considered.
First was the need to make available the messages contained
in the first two compilations and to add thirty-six messages
from the 1963 through 1973 period that had not been included.
Second was the need to publish messages received after 1973.
Thus it was decided to publish a new volume that would
encompass and expand upon the first two books.
The time frame of the new volume became clear in January 1986
when the Universal House of justice announced the closing of
the Third Epoch (1963-1986) and the inception of the Fourth
Epoch, signaled by new developments in the maturation of the
institutions of the Faith. Hence Messages from the Universal
House of Justice, 1963-1986 enables the reader to survey the
full sweep of the Third Epoch, beginning with the first
message issued by the Universal House of Justice after its
establishment in 1963 and ending with the annual Ridvan
message of 1986. The messages record the progress of the Faith
through the Nine, Five, and Seven Year Plans, chronicling
extraordinary advances in proclamation, expansion, and
consolidation. They reach a climax in the last two years of
the Seven Year Plan with the Faith's emergence from obscurity,
the release of a statement on peace addressed to the peoples
of the world, and the inception of the Fourth Epoch of the
Formative Age. These and countless other achievements stand
in marked contrast to the contemporaneous persecution of the
Bahá'ís of Iran, throwing into sharp relief the interplay
between crisis and victory. The dynamic interaction between
these two forces is a chief characteristic of the unfoldment
of the Bahá'í Faith and a prominent theme in this volume.
Messages from the Universal House of Justice, 1963-1986
includes numerous features that have been introduced for the
reader's convenience. A table of epochs of the Heroic and
Formative Ages of the Bahá'í Faith and a list of significant
+xxxiv
A NOTE FROM THE COMPILER
milestones, anniversaries, and events in the Third Epoch offer
a brief overview of recent Bahá'í history. Each message has
been given a heading and assigned a number, and the paragraphs
or other divisions of text within the messages have been
numbered to facilitate reference. An extensive index is
included, its locators corresponding to the numbering system
used in the text. Subheadings have been added to many longer
messages; spellings have been Americanized; and, for
consistency, dates have been given in a day-month year format.
Addressees, salutations, and complimentary closings have been
retained, except for a few cases in which confidentiality
required their omission. Because the compilation of messages
covers almost a quarter of a century, footnotes have been
added to explain historical details, allusions, technical
terms, sources of most quotations, cross references to other
messages on the same topic, and references to further details
in the glossary or in other books. To help keep the notes as
brief as possible, the titles of many Bahá'í books were
abbreviated. A list of abbreviations and the titles they stand
for appears at the front of the book. A glossary has been
included to give background information and define technical
Bahá'í terms. A bibliography provides information about books
and compilations referred to in the text and footnotes.
No changes have been made to the texts of the messages without
explicit permission from the Universal House of Justice.
Extracts from the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, the Bab, and
Abdu'l-Baha that are quoted in the messages have been checked
against authenticated sources and authorized translations and
have been updated accordingly where appropriate. Noticeable
changes in the translations of such extracts are footnoted.
The dates of certain cables may differ slightly from those of
the same cables published elsewhere because cables of general
interest that were addressed to a specific National Spiritual
Assembly were usually conveyed to other National Spiritual
Assemblies by mail a few days later. In such cases the date
of the original cable is used.
Occasionally the reader will encounter references to
enclosures or attachments, such as compilations and lists of
pioneer assignments given to National Spiritual Assemblies.
Such enclosures have been omitted because of space
limitations. Most of the compilations have already been
published, and, wherever possible, a reference to the
published work is given.
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to the
Universal House of Justice for its assistance in making
available many messages that were previously unpublished and
particularly for its direction in all phases of the production
of this volume. Thanks are due to Ivor Stoakley, Diane
Taherzadeh, and Lewis Walker for their assistance with
footnotes and glossary entries; to John Walbridge for helpful
comments on the glossary; to Dr. Manuchihr Derakhshani for
assistance with Persian and Arabic transliterations; to Dr.
Betty
+xxxv
A NOTE FROM THE COMPILER
J. Fisher and Terry J. Cassiday of the Bahá'í Publishing Trust
whose insights, scholarship, hard work, and close attention
to detail have been invaluable; and to my wife, Amy, for her
unwavering encouragement and support. We hope this book will
prove to be a useful and convenient source of guidance and
inspiration for both individuals and institutions the world
over as they strive to serve the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh and
carry the healing balm of His teachings to all humanity.
GEOFFRY W. MARKS
+xxxvi
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+xxxvii
List of Abbreviations
ABL 'Abdu'l-Bahá in London ADJ The Advent of Divine Justice,
1990 ed. BA Bahá'í Administration BN Bahá'í News BNE
Bahá'u'lláh and the New Era BP Bahá'í Prayers, 1991 U.S. ed.
BW 9 The Bahá'í World, Volume IX BW 13 The Bahá'í Work Volume
XIII BW 14 The Bahá'í World, Volume XIV BW 15 The Bahá'í
World, Volume XV BW 16 The Bahá'í World, Volume XVI BW 17 The
Bahá'í World, Volume XWI BW 18 The Bahá'í World, Volume XVIII
BW 19 The Bahá'í World, Volume XIX CC The Compilation of
Compilations
CF Citadel of Faith
CUHJ Constitution of the Universal House of Justice
DB The Dawn-Breakers
DND Dawn of a New Day
ESW Epistle to the Son of the Wolf
FSTS From Strength to Strength
GPB God Passes By
GWB Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh
KA The Kitab-i-Aqdas
KI The Kitab-i-Iqan
LFG Letters from the Guardian to Australia and New Zealand
LG Lights of Guidance
MA Messages to America
MBW Messages to the Bahá'í World
+xxxviii
ABBREVIATIONS
MC Messages to Canada MF Memorials of the Faithful PB The
Proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh PDIC The Promised Day Is Come,
1996 ed. PM Prayers and Meditations PP The Priceless Pearl PT
Paris Talks PUP The Promulgation of Universal Peace, 1982 ed.
SAQ Some Answered Questions, 1984 ed. SBS Selections from
Bahá'í Scriptures SC Synopsis and Codification of the
Kitab-i-Aqdas SDC The Secret of Divine Civilization SWAB
Selections from the Writings of Abdu'l-Baha TABA Tablets of
Abdu'l-Baha Abbas TB Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh Revealed after the
Kitab-i-Aqdas TDP Tablets of the Divine Plan, 1992 ed. TN A
Travelers Narrative UD Unfolding Destiny WOB The World Order
of Bahá'u'lláh WT Will and Testament of Abdu'l-Baha
+xxxix
Epochs of the Heroic Age
1844-1853 The First Epoch
The Babi Dispensation
1853-1892 The Second Epoch
The Ministry of Bahá'u'lláh
1892-1921 The Third Epoch
The Ministry of 'Abdu'l-Bahá
___ 1. Based on the attachment to the letter dated 5 February
1986 from the Universal House of Justice to all National
Spiritual Assemblies. See message no. 451.
+xl
PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+xli
Epochs of the Formative Age
1921-1944/46 The First Epoch
1921-1936 Period of Preparation 1937-1944 The first Seven Year
Plan of the Bahá'ís of the United States and Canada 1944-1946
Consolidation of victories
1946-1963 The Second Epoch
1946-1953 The second Seven Year Plan of the Bahá'ís of the
United States and plans of varying duration pursued by nine
other regional and national Bahá'í communities (Canada;
Central America and South America; Australia and New Zealand;
India, Pakistan, and Burma; the British Isles; Germany and
Austria; Persia; Egypt; Iraq)2
1953-1963 The Ten Year World Crusade
1963-1986 The Third Epoch
1963-1964...........Year of Preparation 1964-1973
...........Nine Year Plan 1973-1974............Year of
Preparation 1974-1979............Five Year Plan 1979-1986
............Seven Year Plan
___ 1. Based on the attachment to the letter dated 5 February
1986 from the Universal House of Justice to all National
Spiritual Assemblies. See message no. 451.
2. See FSTS, pp.
33-38.
+xlii
EPOCHS OF THE FORMATIVE AGE
1986- The Fourth Epoch
1986-1992 ...Six Year Plan 1992-1993 ...Holy Year
Commemorating the Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh and the
Inauguration of His Covenant 1993-1996 ...Three Year Plan
1996-2000.... Four Year Plan
+xliii
The Third Epoch Significant Milestones, Anniversaries, and
Events
Milestones
Ridvan 1963 First election of the Universal House of Justice
April 28-May 2 1963 First Bahá'í World Congress commemorating
Bahá'u'lláh's declaration of His mission and the victorious
consummation of the Ten Year World Crusade Ridvan 1964
Inauguration of the Third Epoch with the launching of the Nine
Year Plan
Ridvan 1973 End of the Nine Year Plan
Naw-Ruz 1974 Beginning of the Five Year Plan Ridvan 1979 End
of the Five Year Plan Beginning of the Seven Year Plan
January 1986 Inauguration of the Fourth Epoch Ridvan 1986 End
of the Seven Year Plan Beginning of the Six Year Plan
Significant Anniversaries
26 March 1966 Fiftieth anniversary of the revelation of the
first Tablets of the Divine Plan
April 1963 Centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's public declaration of
His Mission
September/ Celebration of the centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's
October 1967 proclamation to the Kings
27 September 1967 Celebration of the centenary of the
revelation of the Suriy-i-Muluk
12 November 1967 Sesquicentennial of the Birth of Bahá'u'lláh
31 August 1968 Centenary of the arrival of Bahá'u'lláh in the
Holy Land
23 June 1968 Centenary of the passing of Mirza Mihdi, the
Purest Branch
+xliv
THE THIRD EPOCH * MILESTONES, ANNIVERSARIES, AND EVENTS
28 November 1971 Fiftieth anniversary of the passing of
'Abdu'l-Bahá 1973 Centenary of the revelation of the
Kitab-i-Aqdas June 1977 Centenary of the termination of
Bahá'u'lláh's confinement in 'Akka July 1982 Fiftieth
anniversary of the passing of the Greatest Holy Leaf 4
November 198-2 Twenty-fifth anniversary of the passing of
Shoghi Effendi
Significant Events Ridvan 1963 Convening of 1st International
Bahá'í Convention, Haifa, and election of the Universal House
of Justice Ridvan 1964 Launching of the Nine Year Plan
July 1964 Dedication of the Mother Temple of Europe,
Langenhain, near Frankfurt am Main, Germany November 1965
Purification of the Most Holy Tomb October 1967 Opening of a
period of proclamation inaugurated by the presentation by the
Universal House of Justice to 140 heads of state of a special
edition of The Proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh Commemoration of
the centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's proclamation to the kings with
the holding of six intercontinental conferences in Panama
City, Panama; Wilmette, Illinois, U.S.A.; Sydney, Australia;
Kampala, Uganda; Frankfurt am Main, Germany; and New Delhi,
India Assumption by the Universal House of Justice of
representation of the Bahá'í International Community at the
United Nations October 1967 Laying of the foundation stone of
the Mother Temple of Latin America, Panama City, Panama
February 1968 Embracing of the Faith by His Highness Malietoa
Tanumafili II of Western Samoa Ridvan 1968 Convening of the
2nd International Bahá'í Convention, Haifa, and election of
the Universal House of Justice June 1968 Establishment of the
Continental Boards of Counsellors August 1968 Commemoration
of the centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's arrival in the Holy Land
with the holding of First Oceanic Conference, Palermo, Sicily
+xlv
THE THIRD EPOCH - MILESTONES, ANNIVERSARIES, AND EVENTS
February 1970 Bahá'í International Community's attainment of
consultative status with the United Nations Economic and
Social Council August 1970-Holding of eight oceanic and
continental conferences September 1971 in La Paz, Bolivia;
Rose Hill, Mauritius; Monrovia, Liberia; Djakarta, Indonesia;
Suva, Fiji; Kingston, Jamaica; Sapporo, Japan; Reykjavik,
Iceland
April 28 - May 2 1972 Dedication of the Mother Temple of Latin
America, Panama City, Panama June 1972 Announcement of the
decision to build the Seat of the Universal House of Justice
September 1972 Murder of three Iranian Bahá'í students in the
Philippine Islands November 1972 Adoption of the Constitution
of the Universal House of Justice March 1973 Purchase of the
Mazra'ih Mansion
Ridvan 1973 Convening of the 3rd International Bahá'í
Convention, Haifa, and election of the Universal House of
Justice Publication of A Synopsis and Codification of the Laws
and Ordinances of the Kitab-i-Aqdas May 1973 Announcement of
the embracing of the Bahá'í Faith by His Highness Malietoa
Tanumafili II of Western Samoa
June 1973 Establishment of the International Teaching Center
February 1974 Acceptance of the design for the seat of the
Universal House of Justice Ridvan 1974 Launching of the Five
Year Plan January 1975 Acquisition of the House of Abdu'llah
Pasha in 'Akka
April 1975 Excavation of the site of the seat of the Universal
House of justice
July 1976 Holding of eight international teaching conferences
January 1977 in Helsinki, Finland; Anchorage, Alaska; Paris,
France; Nairobi, Kenya; Hong Kong; Auckland, New Zealand;
Bahá'í, Brazil; and Merida, Mexico. September 1976 Visit of
His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili II to the resting-place of
Shoghi Effendi in London, England
May 1977 Murder of Ruhu'llah Taymuri-Muqaddam, an Iranian
homefront pioneer, in his home by fanatics
+xlvi
THE THIRD EPOCH - MILESTONES, ANNIVERSARIES, AND EVENTS
October 1977 Laying of foundation stone for Mother Temple of
Indian subcontinent, New Delhi, December 1977 Initiation of
broadcasting by the first Bahá'í radio station, Otavalo,
Ecuador Ridvan 1978 Convening of the 4th International Bahá'í
Convention, Haifa, and election of the Universal House of
Justice August 1978 Inauguration of Radio Bahá'í Ecuador
December 1978 - Intensification of the persecution of January
1979 the Bahá'ís in Iran January 1979 Laying of the foundation
stone of the Mother Temple of the Pacific Islands Naw-Ruz 1979
Launching of the Seven Year Plan June 1979 Fixing of
Counselors' term of service at five years June-July 1979
Numerous appeals made by Local Spiritual Assemblies around the
world to Ayatollah Khomeini, asking him to stop the
persecution of the Bahá'ís of June-August 1979 Addresses by
H. Borrah Kavelin, representative of the Universal House of
Justice, at a series of significant meetings in North America
and Europe about the importance of redeeming the Iranian
Bahá'ís sacrifices through service to the Faith September 1979
Demolition of the House of the Bab in November 1979 Arrest of
a member of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of
December 1979 Commencement of excavation of the site of the
Mother Temple of the Pacific Islands, Apia, Western Samoa July
1980 Commencement of construction of Mother Temple of the
Indian Subcontinent, New Delhi, India August 1980 Arrest of
all nine members of the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran
and two Auxiliary Board members November 1980 Appointment of
a new contingent of Continental Counselors to a five-year term
of service January 1981 Execution of chairman of National
Spiritual Assembly of Iran May 1981 Establishment of a
European Branch Office of the Bahá'í International Community
August 1981 Increase in the severity of the persecution of the
Bahá'ís of Iran
+xlvii
THE THIRD EPOCH - MILESTONES, ANNIVERSARIES, AND EVENTS
November 1981 Arrest of six members of National Spiritual
Assembly of Iran Inauguration of Radio Bahá'í Peru December
1981 Demolition of the House of Bahá'u'lláh in Takur Arrest
and execution of eight members of the National Spiritual
Assembly
May-September 1982 Holding of five international conferences
in Lagos, Nigeria; Montreal, Canada; Quito, Ecuador; Dublin,
Ireland; and Canberra, Australia July 1982 By-election to
replace one member of the Universal House of Justice December
1982 Establishment of first Bahá'í radio station in North
America January 1983 Occupation by the Universal House of
Justice of its permanent seat April 19830pening of the House
of Abdu'11ah Pasha to pilgrims Ridvan 1983Convening of the 5th
International Bahá'í Convention, Haifa, and election of the
Universal House of Justice May 1983 Increase in the
responsibilities of the International Teaching Center Public
defense of the Bahá'ís of Iran by the President of the United
States June 1983 Execution of seventeen Bahá'ís in Shiraz,
including ten women Call for the youth of the world to
vindicate the martyred youth of Shiraz August 1983 Banning of
Bahá'í administration in Iran September 1983 Sending of an
open letter from the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran to
the authorities responding to the false charges made against
the Bahá'í community October 1983Call for Bahá'í involvement
in social and economic development activities April
1984Attempt to achieve false confessions from the Bahá'ís of
Iran by use of torture Inauguration of Radio Bahá'í Bolivia
August 1984 Dedication of the Mother Temple of the Pacific
Islands, Apia, Western Samoa
+xlviii
THE THIRD EPOCH - MILESTONES, ANNIVERSARIES, AND EVENTS
July 1985 Release of compilation on the Law of Huququ'llah
Establishment of Public Information Office at the Bahá'í World
Centre October 1985 Release by the Universal House of Justice
of a statement on peace addressed to the peoples of the world
Appointment of a new and expanded contingent of members of the
Continental Boards of Counsellors November 1985 Presentation
of the peace statement to the Secretary General of the United
Nations December 1985 Emergence of the Bahá'í Faith from
obscurity signaled by adoption of a resolution by the United
Nations General Assembly supporting the Iranian Bahá'í
community
December 1985 - Conference of the Continental Boards of
Counselor January 1986 in the Holy Land with Hands of the
Cause of God, members of the Universal House of Justice, and
the International Teaching Center January 1986Announcement of
the beginning of the Fourth Epoch of the Formative Age by the
Universal House of Justice in a letter to the Bahá'ís of the
world Inauguration of Radio Bahá'í Pan February 1986 Setting
of date for dedication of Mother Temple of the Indian
Subcontinent, New Delhi, India Invitation from the Universal
House of Justice to National Spiritual Assemblies and
Continental Counselors to consult about national goals within
the framework of the major objectives of the Six Year Plan set
by the Universal House of Justice Ridvan 1986 Review by the
Universal House of justice of achievements of the Seven Year
Plan, comments on the Faith's emergence from obscurity and the
maturation of the institutions of the Cause and announcement
of World Center goals of publishing an English translation of
the Kit6b-i-Aqdas, education ofthe Bahá'ís about the law of
Huququ'llah, planning for the completionof the remaining
buildings on the Arc, and broadening the basis ofthe
international relations of the Faith Launching of the Six Year
Plan
+1
MESSAGES FROM THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
1963-1986
+2
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+3
1963-1964
A Year of Preparation
+4
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
+5
Statement of the Universal House of Justice to the First
Bahá'í World Congress' 30 APRIL 1963
1.1 "All praise, O my God, be to Thee Who art the Source 0f
all glory and majesty, 0f greatness and honor, of sovereignty
and dominion. 0f loftiness and grace, of awe and power.
Whomsoever Thou wiliest Thou causest to draw nigh unto the
Most Great Ocean. and on whomsoever Thou desirest Thou
conferrest the honor of recognizing Thy Most Ancient Name, Of
all who are in heaven and on earth. none can withstand the
operation of Thy sovereign Will. From all eternity Thou didst
rule the entire creation. and Thou wilt continue for evermore
to exercise Thy dominion over all created things. There is
none other God but Thee, the Almighty, the Most Exalted, the
All-Powerful, the All Wise."2
1.2 Beloved friends: On this glorious occasion, the
celebration of the Most Great Jubilee, we raise our grateful
thanks to Bahá'u'lláh for all His bounties showered upon the
friends throughout the world. This historic moment marks at
one and the same time the fulfillment of Daniel's prophecy.
the Hundredth Anniversary of the Declaration of the Promised
One of all ages, the termination of the first epoch of the
Divine Plan 0f `Abdu'l-Baha designed to establish the Faith
of God in all the world. and the successful conclusion of our
bel0ved Guardian's world encircling Crusade, enabling his
lovers and loved ones everywhere to lay this glorious harvest
of victory in his name at the feet of the Blessed Beauty.3
This Most Great Jubilee is the crowning victory of the
lifework of Shoghi Effendi, Guardian of the Cause of God. He
it was. and he alone, who unfolded the potentialities of the
widely scattered, numerically small. and largely unorganized
Bahá'í community which had been called into
___ 1-1. The statement was presented by Mr. David Hofman, a
member of the Universal House of Justice, to the Bahá'ís
assembled in Royal Albert Hall, London, 28 April-2 May 1963,
at the Bahá'í World Congress, which commemorated the Most
Great Jubilee, the one hundredth anniversary of Bahá'u'lláh's
declaration of His mission, and also marked the victorious
completion of the Ten Year Crusade launched by Shoghi Effendi
in April 1953 1-2. Bahá'u'lláh, in BP, p. 120. 1-3.
'Abdu'l-Bahá explained that Daniel's prophecy ("Blessed is he
who cometh unto the thousand three hundred and thirty five
days," Dan. 12:12) points to one century after Bahá'u'lláh's
appearance and declaration of His mission in 1863 and refers
to the spread of the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith across the
world.
The first epoch of the Divine Plan, 'Abdu'l-Bahá's program of
action for the worldwide propagation of the Faith, began in
1937 and ended in 1963, with the conclusion of the Ten Year
Crusade (1953-63). For further information, see glossary
entries on Divine Plan; Crusade, Ten Year World; Epochs;
Plans; Tablets of the Divine Plan.
"Blessed Beauty' refers to Bahá'u'lláh.
+6
being during the Heroic Age of the Faith.4 He it was who
unfolded the grand design of God's Holy Cause, set in motion
the great plans of teaching already outlined by 'Abdu'l-Bahá,
established the institutions and greatly extended the
endowments at the World Center, and raised the Temples of
America, Africa, Australasia and Europe, developed the
Administrative Order of the Cause throughout the world, and
set the Ark of the Cause true on its course. He appointed the
Hands of the Cause of God.
1.3 The paeans of joy and
gratitude, of love and adoration which we now raise to the
throne of Bahá'u'lláh would be inadequate, and the
celebrations of this Most Great Jubilee in which, as promised
by our beloved Guardian, we are now engaged, would be marred
were no tribute paid at this time to the Hands of the Cause
of God. For they share the victory with their beloved
commander, he who raised them up and appointed them. They kept
the ship on its course and brought it safe to port. The
Universal House of Justice, with pride and love, recalls on
this supreme occasion its profound admiration for the heroic
work which they have accomplished.
We do not wish to dwell on the appalling dangers which faced
the infant Cause when it was suddenly deprived of our beloved
Shoghi Effendi, but rather to acknowledge with all the love
and gratitude of our hearts the reality of the sacrifice, the
labor, the self-discipline, the superb stewardship of the
Hands of the Cause of God. We can think of no more fitting
words to express our tribute to these dearly loved and valiant
souls than to recall the Words of Bahá'u'lláh Himself: "Light
and glory, greeting and praise be upon the Hands of His Cause,
through whom the light of fortitude hath shone forth and the
truth hath been established that the authority to choose rests
with God, the Powerful, the Mighty, the Unconstrained, through
whom the ocean of bounty hath surged and the fragrance of the
gracious favors of God, the Lord of mankind, hath been
diffused."5
1.4 The members of the Universal House of Justice,
all being in Haifa at the time of the election, were able to
visit the Holy Shrines of Bahá'u'lláh, the Bab and of
Abdu'l-Baha where they prostrated themselves at the Sacred
Thresholds and humbly sought strength and assistance in the
mighty task before them. Later in London they have paid homage
at the resting-place of Shoghi Effendi, the blessed and sacred
bough of the Tree of Holiness.
1.5 As soon as the House of
Justice is able to organize its work and deploy its forces it
will examine carefully all the conditions of the Cause of God,
and
1-4. The Heroic Age, the first of three Ages of the Bahá'í
Dispensation, began in 1844 with the Declaration of the Bab,
ended in 1921 with the passing of Abdu'l-Baha, and spanned the
ministries of the Bab, Bahá'u'lláh, and 'Abdu'l-Bahá. It was
followed by the Formative Age, which in turn will be followed
by the Golden Age. For a fuller discussion of the Ages of the
Bahá'í Dispensation, see the glossary. 1-5. TB, P. 83.
+7
communications will be made to the friends. At this time we
call upon the believers everywhere to follow up vigorously the
opportunities opened up by the World Crusade. Consolidation
and deepening must go hand in hand with an eager extension of
the teaching work so that the onward march of the Cause may
continue unabated in preparation for future plans.
2.1 Now that
the attention of the public is becoming more and more drawn
to the Cause of God the friends must brace themselves and
prepare their institutions to sustain the gaze of the world,
whether it be friendly or hostile, eager or idle.
The Universal House of Justice greets you all lovingly and
joyfully at this 1.6 time, and asks you to pray fervently for
its speedy development and the spiritual strengthening of its
members.
2 Message to National Conventions 1963 7 MAY 1963
To the annual National Conventions of the Bahá'í World
Beloved Friends,
The marvelous happenings which have transpired during and
immediately after the twelve days of Ridvan attest the
greatness of the Cause of God, and fill every Bahá'í heart to
overflowing with joy and gratitude., It was in obedience to
the summons of the Lord of Hosts Himself that the elected
representatives of the fifty-six national and regional
communities of the Bahá'í world were called to elect, in the
shadow of God's Holy Mountain and in the house of the Center
of His Covenant, the members of the Universal House of
justice. - It was the Sign of God on Earth, the Dayspring of
Divine Guidance
___ 2-1. The happenings referred to were the First
International Bahá'í Convention held 21-23 April 1963 at the
Bahá'í World Center, during which the Universal House of
Justice was first elected, and the first Bahá'í World
Congress, held in London 28 April through 2 May 1963.
Immediately following the World Congress the Universal House
of Justice met for several days in the council room of the
National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the British
Isles at 27 Rutland Gate, dealing with essential matters
concerning its establishment and initial functioning. At the
same time, the Hands of the Cause of God were meeting in
conclave in another room of the same Haziratu'l-Quds,
preparing a first draft of the next teaching plan for
submission to the Universal House of Justice and arranging the
future disposition of their own work. For the message issued
by the Hands of the Cause of God announcing the results of the
election of the Universal House of Justice, see the epigraph.
2-2. Bahá'u'lláh wrote, in Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh (pp. 27,
68): "Inasmuch as for each day there is a new problem and for
every problem an expedient solution, such affairs should be
referred to the Ministers of the House of Justice that they
may act according to the needs and requirements of the
time.... It is incumbent upon all to be obedient unto them."
"It is incumbent upon the Trustees of the House of Justice to
take counsel together regarding those things which have not
outwardly been revealed in the Book, and to enforce that which
is agreeable to them.
+8
the Guardian of the Cause of God, who gathered more than six
thousand Bahá'ís from all parts of the earth to the
celebration of the Most Great jubilee in London. Events of
Spiritual and Administrative Significance
2.2 The first of
these historic occasions was marked by events of extreme
spiritual and administrative significance at the World Center
of the Faith. The daily visits of large groups of believers,
of many varying backgrounds, to the sacred Shrines in the twin
holy CitieS;3 the holding of the First International Bahá'í
Convention and the successful accomplishment of its main task;
the celebration of the Ridvan Feast by some three hundred
believers in the company of the Hands of the Cause of God in
the precincts of the Haram-i-Aqdas,4 are events of unique
character and untold significance in the history of our
beloved Faith.
2.3 The celebration of the Most Great Jubilee
in London must be described elsewhere. Suffice it to say now
that this greatest gathering of Bahá'ís ever held in one place
was permeated by a spirit of such bliss as could only have
come from the outpourings of the Abha Kingdom. The review of
the progress of the Cause, the presentation of believers from
the new races and countries of the world brought within the
pale of the Faith during the Beloved Guardian's Ten Year
Crusade, of the Knights of Bahá'u'lláh, those valiant souls
who carried the banner of Bahá'u'lláh to the unopened and
often inhospitable regions of the earth, the spontaneous
outbursts of singing of "Allah-u-Abha," the informal
gatherings, the constant greetings of Bahá'u'lláh's warriors
known to each other only by name and service, the youth
gatherings, the unprecedented publicity in the press, on radio
and television, the daily stream of visitors to the beloved
Guardian's resting-place, the radiant faces and heightened
awareness of the true and real brotherhood of the human race
within the Kingdom of the Everlasting Father, are among the
outstanding events of this supreme occasion, the crowning
victory of the lifework of Shoghi Effendi. Reaffirmation of
Tribute to the Hands of the Cause of God
2.4 The Universal
House of Justice wishes to reaffirm at this time the tribute
which it felt moved to pay to the Hands of the Cause of God
at the World
God will verily inspire them with whatsoever He willeth, and
He, verily, is the Provider, the Omniscient." Abdu'l-Baha, in
His Will and Testament (p. 19), wrote: "Unto the Most Holy
Book every one must turn, and all that is not expressly
recorded therein must be referred to the Universal House of
Justice." The election of the Universal House of Justice was
held in the House of Abdu'l-Baha in Haifa, 7 Haparsim Street,
at the foot of Mount Carmel, on 21 April 1963. The results of
the election were announced to the delegates the following
day, and the Hands of the Cause of God announced the results
in a cable to the Bahá'í world (see epigraph). 2-3. Haifa and
Akka. 2-4. Haram-i-Aqdas (the Most Holy Court) is a
designation Shoghi Effendi gave to the northwestern quadrant
of the garden surrounding the Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh in Bahji.
+9
Congress, those precious souls who have brought the Cause
safely to victory in the name of Shoghi Effendi. We wish also
to remember the devoted work of their Auxiliary Board members,
as well as the services of the Knights of Bahá'u'lláh, of the
army of pioneers, the members of the National and Regional
Spiritual Assemblies, the services and prayers and sacrifices
of the believers everywhere, all of which in the sum total
have attracted such bounties and favors from Bahá'u'lláh.
2.5 The
Universal House of Justice, in several sessions held in the
Holy Land and in London, has been able to initiate its
work and to make arrangements for the establishment of the
Institution in Haifa. It has no officers, and henceforth its
communications to the Bahá'í World will be signed Universal
House of Justice over an embossed seal.
2.6 Second Epoch of 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Divine Plan The Cause of
God, launched on the sea of the Divine Plan of 'Abdu'l-Bahá,
has achieved, under the superb leadership of its beloved
Guardian, a spread throughout the world and a momentum which
must now carry it forward on the next stage of its
world-redeeming mission, the second epoch of the Divine Plan.5
The Universal House of Justice, in close consultation with the
Hands of the Cause, is examining the vast range of Bahá'í
activity and growth in order to prepare a detailed plan of
expansion for the whole Bahá'í community, to be launched at
Ridvan 1964.
2.7 But there are some objectives to be achieved at
once.
immediate Objectives The consolidation of the goals and new
communities of the Bahá'í world is an urgent and immediate
task facing the fifty-six National Spiritual Assemblies, and
an essential preparation for the launching of the new plans.
Pioneers must be maintained at their posts and all the Local
Spiritual Assemblies strengthened through a firm establishment
of Bahá'í community life and an active teaching program. Those
National Spiritual Assemblies which rest on the basis of a
small number of Local Spiritual Assemblies must make great
efforts to insure that this number will be increased at Ridvan
1964. Pioneers ready to go to consolidation areas, as well as
those eager to open new territories, should make their offers
through their National Spiritual Assembly. The great work of
teaching must be extended, not only in those areas where 2.8
mass conversion is beginning, but everywhere. The high
intensity of teaching activity reached at the end of the World
Crusade, far from slackening, must now be increased as the
friends everywhere draw on the vast spiritual powers released
as a result of the celebration of the Most Great jubilee and
the emergence of the Universal House of Justice.
2- 5. For information on the epochs of the Divine Plan, see
message no. 451.
+10
2.9 The Ten Year Crusade witnessed the completion of the
structure of the Mother Temple of Europe.6 It is now
imperative to complete, without delay, the interior
decoration, to install utilities and lay access roads, to
landscape grounds and to construct the caretaker's house. This
work will cost not less than $210,000_00, but if delayed it
will cost considerably more. The House of Justice calls upon
the National Spiritual Assemblies to allocate substantial
budgets for the immediate completion of this work. Preview of
the New Plan
2.10 The plan to be embarked upon next Ridvan,
the details of which will be announced during the coming year,
will include such projects as the extension and embellishment
of the endowments at the World Center; collation of the
Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi;
continual reinforcement of the ties binding the Bahá'í World
to the United Nations;' formation of many more National
Spiritual Assemblies, both by division of existing Regional
Spiritual Assemblies and the development of new Bahá'í
communities, together with the purchase of national
Haziratu'l-Quds, Temple sites and national endowments; the
opening of new territories to the Faith; detailed plans for
National Spiritual Assemblies involving, in some areas,
consolidation goals, in others the multiplication of Bahá'í
institutes and schools, in others a great enrichment of Bahá'í
literature, and in all a vast increase in the number of
Bahá'ís, and the holding of oceanic and intercontinental
conferences.
2.11 All such expansion and development of the
Faith will be dependent upon the Bahá'í Fund. The Universal
House of Justice calls the attention of every believer to this
vital and pressing matter, and asks the National Spiritual
Assemblies to pay special attention to the principle of
universal participation, so that every single follower of
Bahá'u'lláh may make his offering, however small or great, and
thereby identify himself with the work of the Cause
everywhere. It is our hope that a constant flow of
contributions to the International Fund will make it possible
to build up sufficient reserves for the launching of the new
plan in 1964.
2.12 Beloved friends, we enter the second epoch
of the Divine Plan blessed beyond compare, riding the crest
of a great wave of victory produced for us by our beloved
Guardian. The Cause of God is now firmly rooted in the
2-6. The Mother Temple of Europe is the Bahá'í House of
Worship in Langenhain, near Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Its
cornerstone was laid on 20 November 1960; construction was
completed in the spring of 1963. It was dedicated in July 1964
(see message no. 17). 2-7. The Nine Year Plan, 1964-73. 2-8.
For more details on the development of the relationship
between the Bahá'í community and the United Nations, see
messages no. 49, 78, 263, 283.
+11
world.
3.1 Forward then, confident in the power and protection of
the Lord of Hosts, who will, through storm and trial, toil and
jubilee, use His devoted followers to bring to a despairing
humanity, the life-giving waters of His supreme Revelation.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
3 Seat of the Universal House of Justice; New Arrangements for
Pilgrims 16 JUNE 1963
3.2
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Friends,
The Universal House of Justice has been deeply moved and its
hopes have been raised high by the many messages of love,
devotion and eager anticipation which have been received from
National Conventions and National Spiritual Assemblies. Two
decisions have been taken by the Universal House of Justice
involving a further development of the institutions at the
World Center. The former offices of the International Bahá'í
Council at 10, Haparsim Street being inadequate for the far
greater volume of work facing the Universal House of Justice,
it has been decided to take over the whole of this building
(until now called the Western Pilgrim House) as the seat, for
the present time, of the Universal House of Justice.,
3.3 This decision made it necessary to find other
accommodation for the western pilgrims and led directly to the
second decision. After careful consideration of the
alternatives the House of Justice has decided that the time
has come to take the significant step, anticipated by our
beloved Guardian, of housing all pilgrims in one place.2 It
was found possible, by slight alterations, to accommodate all
pilgrims, without lessening the number, in the former Eastern
Pilgrim House and its adjacent buildings. We have therefore
established one Pilgrim House, at the Bahá'í Gardens on Mount
Carmel. The friends should note that this is where they should
go on arrival
3-L The International Bahá'í Council, a body first appointed
by Shoghi Effendi in 1951 and elected in 1961 after his
passing by members of National Spiritual Assemblies, ceased
to exist upon the election of the Universal House of Justice
in 1963. The Universal House of Justice made 10 Haparsim
Street its seat until i February 1983; the building now houses
the International Teaching Center. For more information on the
International Bahá'í Council, see the glossary. 3-2. In April
1969, during the Nine Year Plan, the Universal House of
Justice took a new action, opening the door of pilgrimage to
a greater number of believers and instructing the National
Spiritual Assemblies in procedures to be followed. See the
Ridvan 126 (1969) message, no. 68.
+12
3.4 All friends whose pilgrimages have been confirmed for
1963-64 are therefore expected. There are still vacancies
after December 1963, but only a very few before that date.
3.5
We have asked the Hands of the Cause residing in the Holy Land
to continue to be responsible for the program of the pilgrims
while they are here, but letters requesting permission to come
should be addressed to the Universal House of Justice. With
loving greetings, In His Service, THE UNIVERSAL house OF
JUSTICE
4 Destruction of the Ishqabad Temple 25 AUGUST 1963
To the National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'í World
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
4:1 The whole Bahá'í World will be grief-stricken at the news
of the sad fate which has overtaken the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar in
'Ishqabad, the first Temple raised to the glory of
Bahá'u'lláh., Due to its unsafe condition, resulting from
earthquakes, the building has been entirely demolished and the
site cleared.
4.2 The building of this edifice, the only
structure of its kind to be raised and completed in the
lifetime of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, was described by the beloved
Guardian as "a lasting witness to the fervor and the
self-sacrifice of the Oriental believers." This "enterprise,"
the Guardian further wrote, "must rank not only as the first
major undertaking launched through the concerted efforts of
His followers in the Heroic Age of His Faith, but as one of
the most brilliant and enduring achievements in the history
of the first Bahá'í century."2
4.3 The Bahá'í center in
'Ishqabad was founded in the days of Bahá'u'lláh. Already
during His lifetime preliminary steps had been adopted by the
friends of that community to build, in accordance with the
provisions of the Most Holy Book, a Mashriqu'l-Adhkar
4.4
However, the project had to be postponed until 1902, at the
end of the first decade of the Ministry of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, when
He initiated its construction, called on the friends in the
East to offer their contributions towards the
V. The temple was located in Turkmenistan, near the Iranian
border, north of the Iranian province of Khurasan. 4-2. GPB,
P. 300. The first Bahá'í century ended in 1944. 4-3. The Most
Holy Book is the Kitab-i-Aqdas, Bahá'u'lláh's book of laws.
+13
fulfillment of this goal, and personally encouraged and
directed its development at every stage. The Bab's cousin,
the venerable Haji Mirza Muhammad Taqi, the Vakilu'd-Dawlih,
offered his total wealth towards this meritorious enterprise,
established his residence in that city, and personally
supervised its construction.
4.5 The laying of the cornerstone of
this edifice at a ceremony attended by the delegate of the
Czar -- the Governor-General of Turkistan -- and the initial
steps taken to raise this first House of Worship of the Bahá'í
World, inspired the friends in America, who, in 1903, eager
to demonstrate the quality of their faith, petitioned
'Abdu'l-Bahá for permission to erect the first
Mashriqu'l-Adhkar of the West.
4.6 In addition to the Temple
itself, two schools, one for boys and one for girls, and
a pilgrim house were built. The local community, and the
activities of the friends throughout the provinces of
Turkistan expanded and developed in stature until 1928, when
the law expropriating religious edifices was applied to this
Temple. However, under the terms of two five-year leases, the
Bahá'í community was permitted to continue to use the building
as a house of worship. In 1938 the Temple was completely
expropriated and converted into an art gallery.
4.7 In 1948
violent earthquakes shook the whole town causing devastation
and ruin. The building was seriously damaged. The only
section which remained relatively secure was the central
rotunda. Heavy yearly rains further weakened the structure to
such a degree as to endanger the safety of houses in the
vicinity. It was at this point that the authorities decided
to demolish the remaining edifice and clear the site.
4.8 A
reliable report, recently received, indicates that had the
Temple been restored to us at this point, we should have
had no option but to raze the building ourselves. Please share
this news with the friends but we do not wish National
Assemblies, Local Assemblies or individual believers to take
any action.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+14
5
The Guardianship 6 OCTOBER 1963
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Beloved Friends,
5.1 We wish to share with you the text of the
following resolution:
After prayerful and careful study of the Holy Texts bearing
upon the question of the appointment of the successor to
Shoghi Effendi as Guardian of the Cause of God, and after
prolonged consideration of the views of the Hands of the Cause
of God residing in the Holy Land, the Universal House of
Justice finds that there is no way to appoint or to legislate
to make it possible to appoint a second Guardian to succeed
Sh
05.2 Please share this message with the friends in your
jurisdiction.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
6 Announcement of the Nine Year Plan OCTOBER 1963
To the Followers of Bahá'u'lláh throughout the World Fellow
believers in the Cause of God,
6.1 Six years ago when nearing
the midway point of the Ten Year Crusade, the Bahá'í World
found itself abruptly deprived of the guiding hand of its
beloved Guardian. The anguish which then seized our hearts,
far from paralyzing the progress of the Cause, stiffened our
resolve and fired our zeal to complete the tasks which God,
through His Chosen Branch, had laid upon us.' The august
institution of the Hands of the Cause of God which he had, but
recently, in compliance with the instructions of the Master's
Will, raised up, kept the people of this Cause faithfully to
the path which had been shown to us by the pen of divine
guidance, and brought us not only to the triumphal conclusion
of that Crusade but to the culminating point of the
construction of the framework of Bahá'u'lláh's World Order.,
6-1. The Chosen Branch is Shoghi Effendi, Bahá'u'lláh's
great-grandson. 6-2. 'Abdu'l-Bahá included in His Will and
Testament a provision for the appointment of Hands of the
Cause of God (see WT, pp. 12-13).
+15
In March 1930 Shoghi Effendi wrote that Bahá'u'lláh and
'Abdu'l-Bahá had 6.2 "in unequivocal and emphatic language,
appointed those twin institutions of the House of Justice and
of the Guardianship as their chosen Successors, destined to
apply the principles, promulgate the laws, protect the
institutions, adapt loyally and intelligently the Faith to the
requirements of progressive society, and consummate the
incorruptible inheritance which the Founders of the Faith have
bequeathed to the world." After long and prayerful
consultation, the House of Justice, as the friends have
already been informed, found that there is no way in which it
can legislate for a second Guardian to succeed Shoghi
Effendi.3 The Universal House of Justice has therefore begun,
in humble obedience to the Will of God, and strengthened by
daily prayer in the Holy Shrines, to undertake the heavy tasks
laid upon it. In the words of our beloved Guardian it "Will
guide, organize and unify the affairs of the Movement
throughout the world" and "will have to consider afresh the
whole situation, and lay down the principle which shall
direct, so long as it deems advisable, the affairs of the
Cause."4
6.3 The Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh The Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh
is unbroken, its all-encompassing power inviolate. The two
unique features which distinguish it from all religious
covenants of the past are unchanged and operative. The
revealed Word, in its original purity, amplified by the
divinely guided interpretations of 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi
Effendi, remains immutable, unadulterated by any man-made
creeds or dogmas, unwarrantable inferences or unauthorized
interpretations. The channel of divine guidance, providing
flexibility in all the affairs of mankind, remains open
through that Institution which was founded by Bahá'u'lláh and
endowed by Him with supreme authority and unfailing guidance,
and of which the Master wrote: "Unto this body all things must
be referred."5How clearly we can see the truth of
Bahá'u'lláh's assertion: "The Hand of Omnipotence hath
established His Revelation upon an unassailable, an enduring
foundation.
6.4 Storms of human strife are powerless to undermine
its basis, nor will men's fanciful theories succeed in
damaging its structure. 116
Responsibility of the Institutions As the significance of the
Cause of God continues in the years ahead to become more
clearly apparent to the eyes of men, a great responsibility
to watch over its security rests upon all of its institutions.
The Institution of the Hands of the Cause of God, charged in
the sacred Texts with the specific
6-3. See message no. 6. 6-4. BA, pp. 39, 4L 6-5. WT, P. 14.
6-6. Quoted in WOB, p. 109.
+16
duties of protecting and propagating the Faith, has a
particularly vital responsibility to discharge. In their
capacity as protectors of the Faith, the Hands will continue
to take action to expel Covenant-breakers and to reinstate
those who sincerely repent, subject in each instance to the
approval of the Universal House of JUStiCe.7 Exercising their
function of propagating the Faith, the Hands of the Cause will
inspire, advise and assist the National Spiritual Assemblies
in the work as they did in the time of our beloved Shoghi
Effendi, assisted by the members of their Auxiliary Boards who
will continue to fulfill those functions outlined for them by
him.
6.5 We stand now upon the threshold of the second epoch
of Abdu'l-Baha's Divine Plan, with the outposts of the Cause
established in the remotest corners of the earth, and having
already witnessed the beginnings of that entry into the Faith
by troops promised by the Master Himself. The foundation of
the Kingdom has been securely laid, the framework has been
raised. The friends must now consolidate these achievements,
safeguard their institutions and gather the peoples and
kindreds of the world into the Ark which the Hand of God has
built. Second Global Plan
6.6 Next Ridvan will be launched the
second of those world-encircling enterprises destined in the
course of time to carry the Word of God to every human soul.
The standard-bearers of this Nine Year Plan are the Hands of
the Cause of God. The responsibility for directing the work
will rest upon the shoulders of the National Spiritual
Assemblies, the generals of the Army of Light, under the
guidance of the Universal House of Justice.
6.7 As the first
step inaugurating this great undertaking we rejoice to
announce the formation next Ridvan of nineteen National
Spiritual Assemblies, resulting in the dissolution of six of
the existing Regional National Spiritual Assemblies, and
bringing the total number of these pillars of the Universal
House of Justice to sixty-nine. The National and Regional
National Assemblies now to be formed are: I. The National
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of North West Africa, with
its seat in Tunis, comprising Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco,
Spanish Sahara, Rio de Oro, Mauritania, the Canary Is., and
Madeira. 2. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of
West Africa, with its seat in Monrovia, comprising Liberia,
Senegal, Gambia, Portuguese
6-7. To maintain the unity and incorruptibility of the Faith,
the Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh established a Center of authority
to which all are to turn. This Center has been, successively,
Abdu'l-Baha, Who is uniquely the Center of the Covenant;
Shoghi Effendi, the Guardian of the Faith; and the Universal
House of Justice, which is the apex of its Administrative
Order. A Bahá'í who turns against and defies this Center
breaks the Covenant and, if he is adamant in his disobedience,
is expelled from the Faith as a Covenant-breaker.
+17
Guinea, Guinee, Sierra Leone, Mali, Upper Volta, Ivory Coast
and Cape Verde Is.
3.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of West
Central Africa, with its seat in Victoria, comprising
Cameroon, Spanish Guinea, St. Thomas I., Fernando Po I.,
Corisco L, Nigeria, Niger, Dahomey, Togo, and Ghana.
4.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Uganda and
Central Africa, with its seat in Kampala, comprising Uganda,
Rwanda, Burundi, the Republic of the Congo (Ex-Belgian), the
Congo Republic (Ex-French), Central African Republic, Gabon
and Chad.
5.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Kenya,
with its seat in Nairobi '
6.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Tanganyika
and Zanzibar, with its seat in Dar-es-Salaam, comprising
Tanganyika, Zanzibar, Mafia I., and Pemba I.
7.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of South
Central Africa, with its seat in Salisbury, comprising
Nyasaland, Northern Rhodesia, Southern Rhodesia and
Bechuanaland.
8.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of South and
West Africa, with its seat in Johannesburg, comprising Angola,
Southwest Africa, South Africa, Zululand, Swaziland,
Basutoland, Mozambique and St. Helena.
9.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the Indian
Ocean, with its seat in Port Louis, comprising Mauritius, the
Malagasy Republic, Reunion I., Seychelles Is., Comoro Is., and
the Chagos Archipelago.
10 The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the
Hawaiian Islands, with its seat in Honolulu.
11.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the South
Pacific Ocean, with its seat in Suva, comprising the Gilbert
and Ellice Is., Nauru I., Fiji, Samoa Is., Tonga Is., and Cook
Is.
12. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the
South West Pacific Ocean, with its seat in Honiara, comprising
the Solomon Is., New Hebrides Is., New Caledonia and Loyalty
Is.
13.The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of North
East Asia, with its seat in Tokyo, comprising Japan, Formosa,
Hong Kong and Macau.
14. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Korea,
with its seat in Seoul.
15. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of
Malaysia, with its seat in Kuala Lumpur, comprising Malaya,
Singapore, Brunei, Sabah and Sarawak.
16. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of
Indonesia, with its seat in Djakarta, comprising Indonesia,
the Mentawai Is., Portuguese Timor and West Iran.
+18
17. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Vietnam,
with its seat in Saigon, and having jurisdiction over the
Bahá'í's of Cambodia.
18. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of
Thailand, with its seat in Bangkok, and having jurisdiction
over the Bahá'ís of Laos.
19. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the
Philippines, with its seat in Manila.
___
6.8 The detailed goals of the Plan, which will include
sixty-nine national plans, have yet to be announced, but they
must be such as to develop still further the World Center of
the Faith and the work of its institutions; to consolidate
those territories which have already been opened to the Faith;
to bring God's heating Message to many more of the peoples and
territories of the world including all the unopened
territories of the Ten Year Crusade and all the remaining
independent states of the planet; and to achieve worldwide
proclamation of the Faith to mark the Centenary of
Bahá'u'lláh's Proclamation to the kings and rulers in
1867-1868. 1
6.9 In the spring of 1968 the next election for
the Universal House of Justice will take place. Third Epoch
of the Formative Age
6.10 Beloved friends, the Cause of God,
guarded and nurtured since its inception by God's Messengers,
by the Center of His Covenant and by His Sign on earth, now
enters a new epoch, the third of the Formative Age.9 It must
now grow rapidly in size, increase its spiritual cohesion and
executive ability, develop its institutions and extend its
influence into all strata of society. We, its members, must,
by constant study of the life-giving Word, and by dedicated
service, deepen in spiritual understanding and show to the
world a mature, responsible, fundamentally assured and happy
way of life, far removed from the passions, prejudices and
distractions of present day society. Relying upon God alone,
we can promote His Cause and establish His Kingdom on earth.
Only thus can we prove our love for Those Who brought this new
day into being. Only thus can we prove the truth of Their
Divine Mission and demonstrate how valid was Their Sacrifice.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
6-8. For details on Bahá'u'lláh's proclamation to the kings
and rulers of the world and a description of the events held
throughout the Bahá'í world to commemorate its anniversary,
see letters dated Ridvan 1965, 17 March 1967, and October 1967
(messages no. 24, 41, and 46). For the Tablets Bahá'u'lláh
sent to the kings and rulers of the world, see Proclamation
of Bahá'u'lláh. 6-9.
7.1 For information on the Formative Age, see
entries on Ages and Epochs in the glossary.
+19
7 Request for Prayers for Moroccan Bahá'í Prisoners 17 OCTOBER
1963
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Friends,
Our Bahá'í friends who were tried at Nador, Morocco, last year
and who received sentences of death or life imprisonment
are still being held in prison.1 Their appeal which has been
pending for nearly a year still has not been heard. However,
we are pleased to report that another Bahá'í prisoner,
Mohammad Manaan, of Tangier was recently provisionally
released. We are calling for believers throughout the world
to pray at the Feast Of Qawl (November 23rd) that early
favorable action may be taken in the cases of these devoted
and steadfast friends whose long suffering on behalf of our
Faith has been an inspiration to Bahá'ís everywhere.
7.3 The
friends at the World Center will join you on that day by
saying prayers at the Holy Shrines for our Moroccan
friends.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
___ 7-1. In April 1962 fourteen Moroccan Bahá'í men were
arrested in Nador. On 31 October 1962, after more than six
months of imprisonment, they were tried before the Criminal
Court of Nador on charges of rebellion and disorder, attacks
on public security, constitution of an association of
criminals, and attacks on religious faith. On 10 December 1962
they were found guilty and sentenced. Their cases were then
appealed to the Supreme Court of Morocco, which overruled the
lower court's verdict and released the men. A worldwide
campaign to publicize the plight of the Bahá'í prisoners
focused public opinion, favorable to the Bahá'ís, on the
Moroccan authorities. For further information, see BW
13:288-89, and messages no. 8 and 12.
+20
8 Report on Moroccan Bahá'í Prisoners 15 NOVEMBER 1963
To the National Spiritual Assemblies of the British Isles,
France, and the United States
8.1 Dear Friends, The case of the Bahá'í prisoners in Morocco
has passed through three stages:
(a) The arrest, detention and trial which began in April, 1962
and ended on December 15, 1962 when they appeared in court and
received their respective sentences. (b) The second stage
began when the verdict was known and widely publicized,
attracting the attention of many influential people both
within and without Morocco resulting in widespread sympathy
on behalf of the prisoners and many petitions to the Moroccan
government. (c) The third stage has been characterized by
relative quiet and lack of publicity while all are waiting for
the appeal to be heard. We are now in this stage, the most
difficult of all.
8.2 The Universal House of Justice wishes to share with you
a summary of the present situation as it appears from reports
received from many sources, and to outline the policies which
it believes should govern our immediate actions.
8.3 The
prisoners, except for one who will be referred to later, are
still in prison awaiting their unknown fate with great
firmness and patience. For more than a year and a half they
have withstood all manner of harassment and difficulty. We are
informed that the three sentenced to death have been kept in
solitary confinement for twenty-three hours of every day.
Because of recent political developments it has become more
and more difficult for Bahá'í friends to meet these dear souls
in prison, but when it has been possible the Bahá'ís and
non-believers alike are astonished that the prisoners are able
to demonstrate such exemplary steadfastness and patience.
8.4
It is still not known when the appeal will be heard. At first
it was promised that it would be among the first cases taken
up after the courts reconvened in October. Again, some felt
that it would be delayed until the opening of parliament in
November. Now it is thought that the appeal will be heard very
soon because it has been presented to the Court in such a way
that they cannot delay it longer than one month. A favorable
result is also anticipated.
8.5 The prisoner in Tangier, Mr.
Maanan, has been provisionally released. His release followed
a finding by the magistrate of that city that he could not
find any convincing evidence in the file proving the charges
regarding political sub 2
+21
version and incitement against Islam were justified. In the
view of the magistrate the prisoner is guilty of no other
crime than that of being a Bahá'í. Nevertheless, the
prosecution appealed from this finding, and it was only after
later efforts on the part of the legal committee in Morocco
that Mr. Maanan was released.
8.6 Recently there has been a
proposal for a change in the law which would provide a
penalty of up to three years in prison for persons who are
convicted of enticing Muslims to change their faith.
8.7 While
this law cannot be applied retroactively to the Bahá'í
prisoners, it is felt that this change in the law together
with the result in the Tangier case will have a favorable
effect on the other cases since it indicated the injustice of
the convictions and the harshness of the penalties meted out.
We have had many excellent suggestions from all of you as to
courses of action which might be taken to secure the
release of our fellow Bahá'ís. All have been carefully
considered and weighed together in arriving at our present
course of action....
8.8 If the appeal should be further delayed,
we must reconsider our present policy and do whatever is
reasonably required to bring about an early hearing of the
appeal. In the meantime the entire Bahá'í world is offering
prayers on behalf of the prisoners at the Feast of Qawl.
9.2 This
letter is for your own information and is not to be
circulated. 8.9
With grateful appreciation and with warm Bahá'í love and
greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
9 Development of National Bahá'í Funds 15 NOVEMBER 1963
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Friends,
While it is understood that many communities do not have the
resources 9.1 to fully sustain their administrative and
teaching work, it is important that each National Assembly
make every effort to work out a program and budget which will
enable it to become self-sustaining as rapidly as possible.
To accomplish this, the friends should be made to appreciate
the bounties which come from regular and systematic
contribution to the National Fund. The amount of the
contribution is not as important as universal participation.
In a letter to the National Spiritual Assembly of Central and
East Africa dated August 8, 1957 the beloved Guardian said:
+22
9.2a The institution of the National Fund, so vital and
essential for the uninterrupted progress of these activities
must, in particular, be assured of the wholehearted the
ever-increasing and universal support of the mass whose
welfare, and in whose name, these beneficent of believers, for
these beneficent activities have been initiated and have been
conducted. All, no matter how modest their resources, must
participate. . . .
9.3 National Assemblies needing supplemental assistance for
budgets after Ridvan, 1964 should direct their appeal to the
Universal House of Justice. They should not appeal to another
National Assembly except in specific cases authorized by the
Universal House of Justice.
9.4 We shall pray that the
bounties of the Almighty will descend upon the growing
Administrative Order of His promised Kingdom on Earth so that
we may be enabled to take His healing message to all peoples
everywhere.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
10 Relationship of Hands of the Cause of God and National
Spiritual Assemblies 19 NOVEMBER 1963
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Friends,
10.1 The relationship of the Continental Hands, and their
respective National Assemblies was clearly delineated in the
Message of the beloved Guardian dated June 4, 1957:
10.1a CALL UPON HANDS NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES EACH CONTINENT
SEPARATELY ESTABLISH HENCEFORTH DIRECT CONTACT DELIBERATE
WHENEVER FEASIBLE AS FREQUENTLY POSSIBLE EXCHANGE REPORTS TO
BE SUBMITTED THEIR RESPECTIVE AUXILIARY BOARDS NATIONAL
COMMITTEES EXERCISE UNRELAXING VIGILANCE CARRY OUT
UNFLINCHINGLY SACRED INESCAPABLE DUTIES. SECURITY PRECIOUS
FAITH PRESERVATION SPIRITUAL HEALTH Bahá'í COMMUNITIES
VITALITY FAITH ITS INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS PROPER FUNCTIONING ITS
LABORIOUSLY ERECTED INSTITUTIONS FRUITION ITS WORLDWIDE
ENTERPRISES FULFILLMENT ITS ULTIMATE DESTINY ALL DIRECTLY
DEPENDENT BEFITTING DISCHARGE
10-1. Hands of the Cause of God to whom continental
responsibilities are assigned as distinct from those whose
responsibility it is to serve in the Holy Land.
+23
WEIGHTY RESPONSIBILITIES NOW RESTING MEMBERS THESE TWO
INSTITUTIONS OCCUPYING WITH UNIVERSAL HOUSE JUSTICE NEXT
INSTITUTION GUARDIANSHIP FOREMOST RANK, DIVINELY ORDAINED
ADMINISTRATIVE HIERARCHY WORLD ORDER BAHA'U'LLAH.
10.2 These highly significant words of the beloved Guardian
clearly foreshadow the tremendous importance of the joint
responsibility which he placed upon the Hands and the National
Assemblies in protecting the believers and fostering the
worldwide development of the Faith.
10.3 We stress the necessity of doing everything possible to
expedite and facilitate this free play of consultation between
the Hands and the National Assemblies within the spirit and
framework of these instructions of Shoghi Effendi. The two
institutions have joint and complementary functions which can
be discharged successfully only if the greatest degree of
understanding and cooperation exists between them.
10.4 We are
confident that this relationship will be further strengthened
and developed in the manner envisioned by the Guardian,
and that it will contribute in large measure to the successful
achievement of the goals of the Nine Year Plan which is to be
inaugurated this coming Ridvan.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+24
11 Auxiliary Board Members on National Spiritual Assemblies
25 NOVEMBER 1963
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Beloved Friends,
11.1 The Hands of the Cause at their London Conclave last May
decided that Auxiliary Board members should be free of
administrative responsibilities in order to devote their full
energies to their work as Board members.1 Those Board members
serving on National Assemblies were therefore requested to
decide, before Ridvan 1964, in which capacity they could best
serve the Cause.
11.2 In view of this request made by the
Hands of the Cause to their Auxiliary Board members, the
Universal House of Justice has reached the following
decisions:
11.2a I. National Assemblies in whose areas of jurisdiction
Board members reside, should point out to the delegates at
Convention that whilst teaching and administrative duties are
not mutually exclusive, it is desirable that Auxiliary Board
members, whether for teaching or protection, be left free to
concentrate on the work allotted to them by the Hands of the
Cause in each Continent. The following extract from the
Guardian's letter, written through his secretary, could be
shared with the delegates for their guidance when casting
their votes: 11.2b "The teachers of the Cause can surely
become members of any Assembly or committee. There should be
no incapacity attached to them. But Shoghi Effendi would just
prefer to see them devote all their time to teaching and leave
the administrative functions for those who cannot serve as
teachers." (Bahá'í News, October 1932) 11.2c 2. Should Board
members still be elected on National Assemblies after the
above explanation, it should rest with each Board member to
decide
11-i. After Shoghi Effendi's passing in 1957, the functions
of preserving the unity of the Bahá'í community, guiding it
to the victorious conclusion of the Ten Year Crusade, and
calling the election of the Universal House of Justice fell
to the Hands of the Cause of God in their capacity as "the
Chief Stewards of Bahá'u'lláh's embryonic World Commonwealth"
(MBW, p. 127). In order to carry out these vital functions,
the Hands of the Cause of God met periodically in conclaves
at the World Center to confer on the affairs of the Cause.
After the Most Great jubilee, the one hundredth anniversary
of Bahá'u'lláh's declaration of His mission, the Hands of the
Cause of God met in London to discuss a number of matters,
among those being the evolving role of the members of the
Auxiliary Board in light of the increasing maturity of the
Bahá'í Administrative Order, as evidenced by the formation of
the Universal House of Justice at Ridvan 1963 and the
existence of fifty-six National Spiritual Assemblies. The
Hands of the Cause of God submitted their views to the
Universal House of Justice, which made the decisions
enumerated in this letter.
+25
which of the two functions he feels best suited to perform.
The Universal House of Justice, therefore, approves the
request made by the Hands of the Cause to their Board members
that they choose between the two functions. 3.In the event of
the resignation of Auxiliary Board members from
11.2d National
Assemblies, this should be considered as good reason for
resignation. If, however, the National Assembly, in view of
special conditions, should consider such resignations to be
detrimental to the interests of the Faith of that National
Community, and the Board member should insist upon resigning
on the grounds of his membership on the Board, the matter
should be at once referred to the Universal House of Justice
by the National Spiritual Assembly for examination and final
decision. Pending such a decision, the Board member should
continue his membership on the National Assembly, and explain
his position to the Hands of the Cause in his continent. 4.
Measures will have to be taken by National Assemblies
according to 11.2e normal procedure to fill any vacancies
created in this way. If the vacancy is recognized while
Convention is still in session, a by-election could be
arranged before Convention disbands.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
12 Release of Moroccan Bahá'í Prisoners 18 DECEMBER 1963
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Friends, Following twenty months of close confinement,
and one year after hearing sentences of death and imprisonment
imposed on them, our brave and steadfast brother believers in
Morocco were set free on Friday, December 131 1963. The
long-sought objective has been obtained. As we prayed for
their release during the Feast of Qawl, now let the entire
12.2 Bahá'í world join in prayers of thanksgiving for this
joyful outcome and that the Blessed Beauty enabled these
devoted friends to remain firm in their faith through this
trying ordeal., 12-1. See message dated 17 October 1963 (no.
7) requesting prayers worldwide at the Feast of Qawl (Speech),
23 November,
+26
12.3 In view of the situation which continues to be delicate
in Morocco, you are urged not to seek publicity in this
matter. If you are contacted by the press, make no statement
beyond expressing thankfulness for the just decision.
12.4
Each National Assembly is requested, wherever possible, to
express gratification to King Hassan II of Morocco for this
just decision of the Supreme Court. This should be done in
writing through the Moroccan Embassy, or Consulate, serving
your area.
12.5 We also request that wherever you consider it
advisable you write letters of appreciation to individuals and
organizations within your jurisdiction who offered assistance
in connection with this case.
With warm and loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
13 The Bahá'í Funds 18 DECEMBER 1963
To the Bahá'ís of East and West Dear Friends,
13.1 With the
rapid approach of the launching of the Nine Year Plan, the
Universal House of Justice feels that it is timely to lay
clearly before the Bahá'ís of all countries, the needs of the
Fund at all its levels: local, national, continental and
international.
13.2 The continual expansion of the Faith and
the diversification of the activities of Bahá'í communities
make it more and more necessary for every believer to ponder
carefully his responsibilities and contribute as much and as
regularly as he or she can. Contributing to the Fund is a
service that every believer can render, be he poor or wealthy;
for this is a spiritual responsibility in which the amount
given is not important. It is the degree of the sacrifice of
the giver, the love with which he makes his gift, and the
unity of all the friends in this service which bring spiritual
confirmations. As the beloved Guardian wrote in August 1957:
"All, no matter how modest their resources, must participate.
Upon the degree of self-sacrifice involved in these individual
contributions will directly depend the efficacy and the
spiritual influence which these nascent administrative
institutions, called into being through the power of
Bahá'u'lláh, and by virtue of the Design conceived by the
Center of His Covenant, will exert."'
13-1. The nascent administrative institutions referred to are
the Local and National Spiritual Assemblies. Bahá'u'lláh
ordained the institution of the Local Spiritual Assembly in
the Kitab-i Aqdas
+27
13.3 Not only the individual's responsibility to contribute
is important at this time, but also the uses to which the fund
is put and the areas in which it is expended.
13.4 Much of the present rapid expansion of the Faith is
taking place in areas of great poverty where the believers,
however much they sacrifice, cannot produce sufficient funds
to sustain the work. It is these very areas which are the most
fruitful in teaching, and a sum of money spent here will
produce ten times-even a hundred times-the results obtainable
in other parts of the world. Yet in the past months the
Universal House of justice has had to refuse a number of
appeals for assistance from such areas because there just was
not enough money in the International Fund. It should
therefore be the aim of every local and national community to
13.5 become not only self-supporting, but to expend its funds
with such wisdom and economy as to be able to contribute
substantially to the Bahá'í International Fund, thus
enabling the House of Justice to aid the work in fruitful but
impoverished areas, to assist new National Assemblies to start
their work, to contribute to major international undertakings
of the Nine Year Plan such as Oceanic Conferences, and to
carry forward the work of beautifying the land surrounding the
Holy Shrines at the World Center of the Faith. Nor should the
believers, individually or in their Assemblies, forget the
13.6 vitally important Continental Funds which provide for the
work of the Hands of the Cause of God and their Auxiliary
Boards. This divine institution, so assiduously fostered by
the Guardian, and which has already played a unique role in
the history of the Faith, is destined to render increasingly
important services in the years to come. In the midst of a
civilization torn by strifes and enfeebled by materialism,
13.7 the people of Baha are building a new world. We face at
this time opportunities and responsibilities of vast magnitude
and great urgency. Let each believer in his inmost heart
resolve not to be seduced by the ephemeral allurements of the
society around him, nor to be drawn into its feuds and
short-lived enthusiasms, but instead to transfer all he can
from the old world to that new one which is the vision of his
longing and will be the fruit of his labors.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Aqdas (KA 130, n4g.); Abdu'l-Baha established the institution
of the National Spiritual Assembly (see WT, pp. 14-15).
14.1 The
design conceived by 'Abdu'l-Bahá is embodied in His Will and
Testament, the Charter of the New World Order.
+28
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+29
1964-1973 The Nine Year Plan
+30
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+31
14 Launching of the Nine Year Plan APRIL 1964
To the Bahá'ís of the World
Dearly loved Friends,
The divinely propelled process, described in such
awe-inspiring words by our beloved Guardian, which began
six thousand years ago at the dawn of the Adamic cycle and
which is destined to culminate in "the stage at which the
light of God's triumphant Faith shining in all its power and
glory will have suffused and enveloped the entire planet," is
now entering its tenth and last part., The Ten Year Crusade,
so recently consummated in a blaze of victory and 14.2
rejoicing, constituted the entire ninth part of this process.
It saw the Cause of God leap
forward in one mighty decade-long effort to the point at which
the foundations of its Administrative Order were laid
throughout the world, thus preparing the way for that
awakening of the masses which must characterize the future
progress of the Faith. From the beginning of this Dispensation
the most urgent summons of the
14.3 Word of God, voiced
successively by the Bab and Bahá'u'lláh, has been to teach the
Cause. 'Abdu'l-Bahá, in His own words, 11 spent His days and
nights in promoting the Cause and urging the peoples to
service. "2 Shoghi Effendi, discharging the sacred mission
laid upon him, raised the Administrative Order of the Faith,
already enshrined within the Sacred Writings, and forged it
into a teaching instrument to accomplish through a succession
of plans, national, international, and global, the entire
Divine Plan of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, and he clearly foresaw in the
"tremendously long" tenth part of the process already referred
to, a series of plans to be launched by the Universal House
of justice, extending over 'successive epochs of both the
Formative and Golden Ages of the Faith."3
14-1. MBW, P. 155. The Bahá'í teachings assert that Adam was
a Prophet of God and that He inaugurated the Adamic, or
prophetic, cycle that ended with the advent of the Bab and
that is followed by the cycle of fulfillment Bahá'u'lláh
inaugurated. Shoghi Effendi explains that "The Faith of
Bahá'u'lláh should indeed be regarded, if we wish to be
faithful to the tremendous implications of its message, as the
culmination of a cycle, the final stage in a series of
successive, of preliminary and progressive revelations. These,
beginning with Adam and ending with the Bab, have paved the
way and anticipated with an ever-increasing emphasis the
advent of that Day of Days in which He Who is the Promise of
All Ages should be made manifest" (WOB, p. i03). For a full
description of the ten-part, divinely propelled process and
for a discussion of the nature of cycles, see entries on
Ten-Part Process and Cycles in the glossary. 14-2. WT, P. 10.
14-3. MBW, pp. 153, 155.
+32
14.4 The first of these plans is now before us. Opening at
Ridvan 1964, while the memories of the glorious jubilee of
1963 still surge within our hearts, it must, during its
nine-year course, witness a huge expansion of the Cause of God
and universal participation by all believers in the life of
that Cause.
World Center Goals
14.5 At the World Center of the Faith the
tasks of the Plan include publication of a synopsis and
codification of the Kitab-i-Aqdas, the Most Holy Book;
formulation of the Constitution of the Universal House of
Justice; development of the Institution of the Hands of the
Cause of God, in consultation with the body of the Hands of
the Cause, with a view to the extension into the future of its
appointed functions of protection and propagation; continued
collation and classification of the Bahá'í Sacred Scriptures
as well as of the writings of Shoghi Effendi; continued
efforts directed towards the emancipation of the Faith from
the fetters of religious orthodoxy and its recognition as an
independent religion; the preparation of a plan for the
befitting development and beautification of the entire area
of Bahá'í property surrounding the Holy Shrines; extension of
the existing gardens on Mount Carmel; development of the
relationship between the Bahá'í Community and the United
Nations; the holding of Oceanic and Intercontinental
Conferences; the coordination of worldwide plans to
commemorate, in 1967168, the centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's
Proclamation to the kings and rulers which centered round His
revelation of the Suriy-i-Muluk in Adrianople.4 International
Goals
74.6 In the world community the Plan involves the
opening of seventy virgin territories and the resettlement of
twenty-four; the raising of the number of National Spiritual
Assemblies, the pillars sustaining the Universal House of
Justice, to one hundred and eight, nine times the number which
embarked on the first historic World Crusade in 1953;
increasing the number of Local Spiritual Assemblies to over
thirteen thousand seven hundred, scattered throughout the
territories and islands of the world, at least one thousand
seven hundred of them to be incorporated; the raising of the
number of localities where Bahá'ís reside to over fifty-four
thousand; the building of two more Mashriqu'l-Adhkar one in
Asia and one in Latin America;5 the acquisition
14-4. Tablet to the Kings, referred to by Shoghi Effendi as
"the most momentous Tablet revealed by Bahá'u'lláh" (GPB, p.
170. For passages of the Suriy-i-Muluk that have been
translated into English, see P13, pp. 7-Iz, 47-54, and 102-03.
For details on the celebration of the centenary, see messages
dated October 1963, Ridvan 1965, 17 March 1967, and October
1967 (nos. 6, 24, 41, and 46). 14-5. The Mashriqu'l-Adhkar of
Asia was to be located in Tehran, Iran. Antagonism toward the
Bahá'í Faith caused the plans for its construction to be held
in abeyance.
14.7 The Mashriqu'l-Adhkar of Latin America is in
Panama and was dedicated in 1972.
+33
of thirty-two Teaching Institutes, fifty-two national
Haziratu'l-Quds, fifty-four national Endowments, and sites for
sixty-two future Temples; wide extension of recognition by
civil authorities of the Bahá'í Holy Days and Bahá'í Marriage
Certificates; the translation of literature into one hundred
and thirty-three more languages, and its enrichment in major
languages into which translations have already been made; the
establishment of four new Bahá'í Publishing Trusts, and a vast
increase in the financial resources of the Faith.
The Role of the Individual The healthy development of the
Cause
requires that this great expansion be accompanied by the
dedicated effort of every believer in teaching, in living the
Bahá'í life, in contributing to the Fund, and particularly in
the persistent effort to understand more and more the
significance of Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation. In the words of our
beloved Guardian, "One thing and only one thing will
unfailingly and alone secure the undoubted triumph of this
sacred Cause, namely the extent to which our own inner life
and private character mirror forth in their manifold aspects
the splendor of those eternal principles proclaimed by
Bahá'u'lláh.116
Twin Objectives of the Plan Expansion and universal
participation are the twin objectives of this initial 14.8
phase of the second epoch of the Divine Plan, and all the
goals assigned to the sixty-nine National Communities are
contributory to them. The process of cooperation between
National Spiritual Assemblies, already initiated by the
beloved Guardian, will, during the course of this Plan, apply
to over two hundred specific projects and will further
strengthen this process which may well assume great importance
in future stages of the Formative Age. Once more, dear
friends, we enter the battle but with an incomparably 14.9
greater array than that which embarked upon the World Crusade
in 1953. To that small force of twelve national communities,
now veteran campaigners, have been added fifty-seven new
legions, each under the generalship of a National Spiritual
Assembly, each destined to become a veteran of this and future
campaigns. That Crusade began with slightly more than six
hundred Local Spiritual Assemblies, the greater part of which
were situated in Persia, North America and Europe; the home
fronts now comprise nearly four thousand six hundred Local
Spiritual Assemblies scattered throughout the continents and
islands of the world. We begin this Plan with a tremendous
momentum, exemplified by the addition, since last Ridv6n, of
over four thousand new centers and thirteen National Spiritual
Assemblies, and by the beginning, in several countries, of
that entry by troops into the Cause of God prophesied by
'Abdu'l-Bahá and so eagerly anticipated by Him.
14-6. BA, p. 66.
+34
Standard-Bearers of the Plan
14.10 The Standard-Bearers of
this Nine Year Plan are those same divinely appointed, tried
and victorious souls who bore the standard of the World
Crusade, the Hands of the Cause of God, whose advice and
consultation have been invaluable in the working out of this
Nine Year Plan. Supported by their 11 DEPUTIES, ASSISTANTS
[and] ADVISERS ' '17 the members of the Auxiliary Boards, they
will inspire and protect the army of God, lead through every
breach to the limit of available resources and sustain those
communities struggling over intractable or stony ground, so
that by 1973 the celebrations befitting the centenary of the
Revelation of the Most Holy Book may be undertaken by a
victorious, firmly established, organically united world
community, dedicated to the service of God and the final
triumph of His Cause.
14.11 Therefore let each of the
sixty-nine communities seize its tasks, at once consider how
best to accomplish them within the allotted span, raise its
band of pioneers, consecrate itself to unremitting labor and
set out on its mission. Now is the golden
opportunity. For whatever convulsions the waywardness of a
godless and materialistic age may yet precipitate in the
world, however grievous may be the effects of the rolling up
of the present order on the plans and efforts of the Community
of the Most Great Name, we must seize the opportunities of the
hour and go forward confident that all things are within His
mighty grasp and that, if we but play our part, total and
unconditional victory will inevitably be ours.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Is Convention Greetings 1964 19 APRIL 1964
To the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the
United States OCCASION RIDVAN FESTIVAL EXTEND LOVING GREETINGS
HANDS DELEGATES FRIENDS PRESENT HISTORIC CONVENTIONS LAUNCHING
FIRST ENTERPRISE
SECOND EPOCH UNFOLDMENT ABDU'L-BAHA'S DIVINE PLAN. HAIL
FORMATION THIRTEEN ADDITIONAL NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES
TESTIFYING RESISTLESS DEVELOPMENT WORLD ORDER BAHA'U'LLAH.
CONVEY ALL FRIENDS JOYFUL NEWS DEDICATION MOTHER TEMPLE EUROPE
JULY FOURTH. ASSURE ARDENT PRAYERS VICTORIES BOUNTIFUL FAVORS
COURSE PLAN NOW LAUNCHED. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
14-7. Shoghi Effendi, MBW, P. 59 34
+35
16 Guidelines for the Nine Year Plan 14 MAY 1964
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Friends,
16.1 We have been receiving with deep joy and gratification,
reports of the Conventions held throughout the Bahá'í world
during the Ridvan period just concluded and the national and
regional elections resulting in the formation of sixty-nine
National Spiritual Assemblies. The announcement of the goals
of the Nine Year Plan has received universally a warm
response. Individuals, Conventions and Assemblies have pledged
loyalty and given assurance of the execution of the assigned
goals with determination and dedication. In two cases a goal
has already been declared accomplished. If your Assembly has
been given what appears to be a heavy task, particularly in
terms of homefront goals, you should consider how this can be
phased so that your teaching program is conducted
systematically. When you do work out such an internal plan we
would appreciate receiving a copy. We feet that at this time
certain guidelines could be given to the National
16.4
Spiritual Assemblies to assist them in the understanding and
attainment of the goals assigned to them. New and Unsettled
Territories: this aspect of the Plan is of vital importance.
16.5 It involves the establishment of points of light in new
territories, the further diffusion of the radiance of the
Faith of God and is directly linked with the prestige and
international status of the Faith. It is essential that the
enthusiasm generated at the Conventions be capitalized upon
and the pioneers who have offered their services are directed
wisely and energetically to the posts to be opened and
resettled.
16.6 Acquisition of Properties: as prices generally are
soaring everywhere it is important that properties called
for in the Plan be purchased as soon as funds are made
available. Your National Assembly is no doubt conscious of the
fact that wherever a Haziratu'l-Quds has been allocated it
should be a modest structure, acquired in a dignified location
within the civil limits of the town or city named in the Plan.
However, a Temple site could be near the city, as it is not
essential that it be located within the civil limits of the
city. National Endowments: the object here is not to buy an
extensive property.
16.7 A token piece of land, possibly
donated by a believer, is all that is required for the moment.
+36
16.8 Teaching Institute: this is essentially an activity aimed
at deepening the knowledge of the friends to prepare them for
active participation in the teaching work. In some countries
it may continue to be an activity conducted either in local
Bahá'í Centers or possibly housed in hired quarters, like most
Summer Schools. However, in other countries, and particularly
in mass teaching areas, it may have to be a modest structure
acquired or erected in the rural areas where the majority of
the believers reside rather than in capital cities, to obviate
transportation expenses for those attending. Recognition of
the Faith: such goals as national and local incorporations,
as well as applications to obtain recognition of the Bahá'í
Marriage Certificate and Bahá'í Holy Days, should be embarked
upon only when circumstances are propitious and there is
reasonable assurance that the goal can be attained. 1610 New
Languages: the translation of Bahá'í literature into new
languages should be carefully coordinated with the settlement
of pioneers in areas using such languages. Therefore, this is
a goal which must be pursued
vigorously and without delay so that the teaching work may
proceed effectively in these areas.
16.11 If in the pursuit
of any of the above or other goals your Assembly should
experience any difficulty or need any clarification, you are
welcome to write to us at once.
16.12 We assure you of our
constant prayers at the Holy Shrines for the befitting
discharge of your responsibilities under the Nine Year Plan.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+37
17 Dedication of the Mother Temple of Europe, Langenhain,
Germany July 1964
To the beloved of God gathered in the European Teaching
Conference called on the occasion of the dedication of the
Mother Temple of Europe
17.1
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
We have just witnessed the dedication of the Mother Temple of
Europe -- a project of untold significance and tremendous
potential for the spread of the light of God's Faith in that
Continent. One of the major achievements called for by our
beloved Guardian at the outset of the Ten Year Crusade, this
Mashriqu'l-Adhkar was triumphantly raised during its closing
years as the fruit of long and arduous labors in the face of
determined opposition and upon the sacrificial gifts of
believers from all parts of the world. Now dedicated in the
opening months of the Nine Year Plan; it forms a striking link
between these two great crusades, demonstrating afresh the
organic progress of the Cause whereby the efforts exerted in
one period bear fruit in the next, which in turn endow the
Bahá'í Community with new and greater capacities for the
winning of still greater victories.
17.2 You are now gathered in
this Conference to deliberate on ways and means of
accomplishing the goals which are set before you. Let every
believer, as he considers in detail these various goals, bear
in mind four supreme objectives: to carry the Message of
Bahá'u'lláh to every stratum of society, not only in the towns
and cities but also in the villages and country districts
where the virus of materialism has had much less effect on the
lives of men; to take urgent, wise and well-considered steps
to spread the Faith to those countries of Eastern Europe in
which it has not yet become established; to reinforce strongly
the heroic band of pioneers in the islands of the
Mediterranean and the North Sea-islands which are to play such
an important role in the awakening of the entire continent --
as well as to prosecute energetically the goals you are called
upon to achieve in other continents and oceans; and to foster
the cooperation between National Communities and between
National Spiritual Assemblies and the Hands of the Cause of
God which has contributed so markedly to the work of the Faith
on that Continent and is so essential for its future
development.
17.3 Above all let every European Bahá'í have
ever-present in his mind that these are the five years
during which Bahá'u'lláh sojourned on the soil of that
Continent
+38
a century ago., Let him resolve so to deepen his knowledge of
the Faith and so to increase his standards of self-sacrifice
and dedication to the Cause as to play his part in building
a Community which will be worthy of this supreme bounty and
which will be a beacon light to the peoples of this
fear-wracked world.
17.4 In 1953 Shoghi Effendi wrote that the
Continent of Europe had "at last at this critical hour -- this
great turning point in its fortunes -- entered upon what may
well be regarded as the opening phase of a great spiritual
revival that bids fair to eclipse any period in its spiritual
history. "2 Those who have been privileged to witness the
extraordinary strengthening and consolidation of the Cause in
Europe during the course of the last eleven years are well
aware of the reservoir of spiritual potential that has been
building up and the transformation of the life of the European
Bahá'í Community that has ensued. May the completion and
dedication of the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar be the signal for the
unleashing of this potential, bringing about on the European
mainland and in the islands around its shores a quickening of
the process of individual conversion comparable to those
events which have transpired with such astonishing suddenness
in other continents of the globe.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
18 Teaching the Masses 13 JULY 1964
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
18.1 When the masses of mankind are awakened and enter the
Faith of God, a new process is set in motion and the growth
of a new civilization begins. Witness the emergence of
Christianity and of Islam. These masses are the rank and file,
steeped in traditions of their own, but receptive to the new
Word of God, by which, when they truly respond to it, they
become so influenced as to transform those who come in contact
with them.
18.2 God's standards are different from those of
men. According to men's standards, the acceptance of any cause
by people of distinction, of recognized fame and status,
determines the value and greatness of that cause. But, in the
words
17-1. Bahá'u'lláh was exiled from Constantinople (now
Istanbul) to Adrianople (now Edirne, Turkey), where He
remained from 12 December 1863 through 12 August 1868. Edirne
lies West of the Bosphorus, near Turkeys border with Greece.
17-2. MBW, p. 161.
+39
of Bahá'u'lláh: "The summons and the message which We gave
were never intended to reach or to benefit one land or one
people only. Mankind in its entirety must firmly adhere to
whatsoever hath been revealed and vouchsafed unto it." Or
again, "He hath endowed every soul with the capacity to
recognize the signs of God. How could He, otherwise, have
fulfilled His testimony unto men, if ye be of them that ponder
His Cause in their hearts.", In countries where teaching the
masses has succeeded, the Bahá'ís have poured out their time
and effort in village areas to the same extent as they had
formerly done in cities and towns. The results indicate how
unwise it is to solely concentrate on one section of the
population. Each National Assembly therefore should so balance
its resources and harmonize its efforts that the Faith of God
is taught not only to those who are readily accessible but to
all sections of society, however remote they may be. The
unsophisticated people of the world -- and they form the large
majority of its population -- have the same right to know of
the Cause of God as others. When the friends are teaching the
Word of God they should be careful to give the Message in the
same simplicity as it is enunciated in our Teachings. In their
contacts they must show genuine and divine love. The heart of
an unlettered soul is extremely sensitive; any trace of
prejudice on the part of the pioneer or teacher is immediately
sensed.
18.4 I When teaching among the masses, the friends should
be careful not to emphasize the charitable and
humanitarian aspects of the Faith as a means to Win recruits.
Experience has shown that when facilities such as schools,
dispensaries, hospitals, or even clothes and food are offered
to the people being taught, many complications arise. The
prime motive
should always be the response of man to God's message, and the
recognition of His Messenger. Those who declare themselves as
Bahá'ís should become enchanted with the beauty of the
Teachings; and touched by the love of Bahá'u'lláh.1 The
declarants need not know all the proofs, history, laws, and
principles of the Faith, but in the process of declaring
themselves they must, in addition to catching the spark of
faith, become basically informed about the Central Figures of
the Faith, as well as the existence of laws they must follow
and an administration they must obey, After declaration, the
new believers must not be left to their own devices.
Through correspondence and dispatch of visitors, through
conferences and training courses, these friends must be
patiently strengthened and lovingly helped to develop into
full Bahá'í maturity. The beloved Guardian referring to the
duties of Bahá'í Assemblies in assisting the newly declared
believer has written: ". . . the members of each and every
Assembly should endeavor, by their patience, their love, their
tact and wisdom, to nurse, subsequent to his
18-1. GWB, pp. 96, i05-06.
+40
admission, the newcomer into Bahá'í maturity, and win him over
gradually to the unreserved acceptance of whatever has been
ordained in the teachings."2
Expansion and Consolidation -- Simultaneous Processes
18.6
Expansion and consolidation are twin processes that must go
hand in hand. The friends must not stop expansion in the name
of consolidation. Deepening the newly enrolled believers
generates tremendous stimulus which results in further
expansion. The enrollment of new believers, on the other hand,
creates a new spirit in the community and provides additional
potential manpower that will reinforce the consolidation work.
18.7 We would like to share with you some of the methods used
by National Assemblies in various continents that have proved
useful in teaching the masses, and attach a list. Certain of
these may be valuable in your area, in addition to any methods
you may yourself devise.
18.8 We are fervently praying that
all National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, supported by the
individual believers, will achieve outstanding success in the
fulfillment of this glorious objective.
18.9 Please share this
communication with all the friends.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Teaching the Masses Annex
Materials are sent at once to the new believers. In some
places this material is in the form of printed cards, mainly
in color, portraying a Bahá'í theme or principle. This helps
the new believer to know that his declaration has been
accepted and to feel that he now belongs to the new Faith.
Training courses of about 2 weeks duration are held. To
facilitate attendance and reduce cost, a number of villages
are grouped together as one zone in which the course is held.
The students to the courses are usually selected, so that the
more capable participate, and teaching is facilitated.
Transportation expenses, feeding and accommodation are
provided, if it is found that the participants are unable to
cover such expenses themselves. The material to be taught is
prepared ahead of time, presented in simple language, and
translated into the vernacular. After the course, the more
promising students are picked out, and with their consent, are
requested to undertake teaching projects for a limited period.
It is sometimes found that long-term projects are also useful.
These projects generally are carefully planned as to their
duration, places to be visited, and material to be taught. If
the traveling teachers are not able to cover their expenses,
traveling
18-2.
18.12 MA, p. 11.
+41
18.13 and living expenses are provided by the Fund for the
execution of a given and temporary teaching project. 3.
Shorter training courses in the form of conferences over a
long weekend are held. 4. These activities -- training
courses and conferences -- are repeated as frequently as
possible and are not dependent upon the acquisition of
Teaching Institutes. In the absence of such Institutes, these
courses and conferences are normally held in Bahá'í homes or
hired quarters, such as schools, etc. In order to facilitate
the physical catering and accommodation of the participants
they are sometimes asked to come to the course with their
eating utensils and bedding. 5. In the visits made to the
villages, the visiting teacher meets with the Local
18.14
Communities to give them basic Bahá'í knowledge, such as
living the Bahá'í life, the importance of teaching, prayer,
fasting, Nineteen Day Feasts, Bahá'í elections, and
contributions to the Fund. The question of contributions to
the Fund is of utmost importance, so that the new believers
may quickly feel themselves to be responsible members of the
Community.
18.15 Each National Assembly must find ways and means to
stimulate the offering of contributions, in cash or kind, to
make it easy for the friends to contribute and to give proper
receipts to the donors.
These are but suggestions based on experience which may help
you in your efforts to teach and deepen the spiritually
starved multitudes in your area.
18.16 In the course of carrying out
such a tremendous spiritual campaign among the masses,
disappointments will well be encountered. We tabulate a few
instances that have been brought to our notice:
a) Visiting pioneers or teachers may find in some places newly
enrolled believers not so enthusiastic about their religion
as expected, or not adjusting to standards of Bahá'í life, or
they may find them thinking of material benefits they may hope
to derive from their new membership.
18.17 We should always remember
that the process of nursing the believer into full spiritual
maturity is slow, and needs loving education and patience. b)
Some teaching committees, in their eagerness to obtain
results, place undue emphasis on obtaining a great number of
declarations to the detriment of the quality of teaching. c)
Some traveling teachers, in their desire to show the result
of their services, may not scrupulously teach their contacts,
and in some rare cases, if, God forbid, they are insincere,
may even give false reports.
Such irregularities have happened and can be repeated, but
must not be a source of discouragement. By sending a
team of teachers to an area, or by sending at intervals other
teachers to those areas, and through correspondence and
reports, such situations can be detected and immediately
adjusted. The
+42
administration of the Faith must at all times keep in close
touch with the teaching work.
18.18 To sum up:
I. Teaching the waiting masses is a reality facing each
National Assembly. z. The friends must teach with conviction,
determination, genuine love, lack of prejudice, and in a
simple language addressed to the heart. 3.Teaching must be
followed up by training courses, conferences, and regular
visits to deepen the believers in their knowledge of the
Teachings. 4. The close touch of the National Office or
Teaching Committees with the work is most essential, so that
through reports and correspondence not only is information
obtained and verified, but stimulation and encouragement is
given. 5. Expansion and consolidation go hand in hand.
19 Universal Participation SEPTEMBER 1964
To the Bahá'ís of the World
Dearly loved Friends,
19.1 In our message to you of April, 1964, announcing the Nine
Year Plan, we called
attention to two major themes of that Plan, namely "a huge
expansion of the Cause of God and universal participation by
all believers in the life of that Cause."
19.2 The
enthusiastic vigor with which the believers throughout the
world, under the devoted guidance of their National Spiritual
Assemblies, have, arisen to meet the challenge of the Plan,
augurs well for the huge expansion called for. We now ask you
to bend your efforts and thoughts, with equal enthusiasm, to
the requirements of universal participation.
19.3 In that same
message we indicated the meaning of universal participation:
11 the dedicated effort of every believer in teaching, in
living the Bahá'í life, in contributing to the Fund, and
particularly in the persistent effort to understand more and
more the significance of Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation. In the
words of our beloved Guardian, 'One thing and only one thing
will unfailingly and alone secure the undoubted triumph of
this sacred Cause, namely the extent to which our own inner
life and private character mirror forth in their manifold
aspects the splendor of those eternal principles proclaimed
by Bahá'u'lláh.-, 19.4 "Regard the world as the human body,"
wrote Bahá'u'lláh to Queen Victoria.2 19-1. BA, p. 66.
+43
We can surely regard the Bahá'í world, the army of God, in the
same way. In the human body, every cell, every organ, every
nerve has its part to play. When all do so the body is
healthy, vigorous, radiant, ready for every call made upon it.
No cell, however humble, lives apart from the body, whether
in serving it or receiving from it. This is true of the body
of mankind in which God "hast endowed each and all with
talents and facultieS,"3 and is supremely true of the body of
the Bahá'í World Community, for this body is already an
organism, united in its aspirations, unified in its methods,
seeking assistance and confirmation from the same Source, and
illumined with the conscious knowledge of its unity.
Therefore, in this organic, divinely guided, blessed and
illumined body the participation of every believer is of the
utmost importance, and is a source of power and vitality as
yet unknown to us. For extensive and deep as has been the
sharing in the glorious work of the Cause, who would claim
that every single believer has succeeded in finding his or her
fullest satisfaction in the life of the Cause? The Bahá'í
World Community, growing like a healthy new body, develops new
cells, new organs, new functions and powers as it presses on
to its maturity, when every soul, living for the Cause of God,
will receive from that Cause, health, assurance and the
overflowing bounties of Bahá'u'lláh which are diffused through
His divinely ordained order. In addition to teaching every
believer can pray.
19.5 Every believer can strive to make his
"own inner life and private character mirror forth in their
manifold aspects the splendor of those eternal principles
proclaimed by Bahá'u'lláh."4 Every believer can contribute to
the Fund. Not all believers can give public talks, not all are
called upon to serve on administrative institutions. But all
can pray, fight their own spiritual battles, and contribute
to the Fund. If every believer will carry out these sacred
duties, we shall be astonished at the accession of power which
will result to the whole body, and which in its turn will give
rise to further growth and the showering of greater blessings
on all of us.
19.6 The real secret of universal participation lies
in the Master's oft expressed wish that the friends
should love each other, constantly encourage each other, work
together, be as one soul in one body, and in so doing become
a true, organic, healthy body animated and illumined by the
spirit. In such a body all will receive spiritual health and
vitality from the organism itself, and the most perfect
flowers and fruits will be brought forth. Our prayers for the
happiness and success of the friends everywhere are 19.7
constantly offered at the Holy Shrines.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
19-2. ESW, p. 62. 19-3. 'Abdu'l-Bahá, in BP, P. 103. 19-4. BA,
p. 66.
+44
20 Development of the Institution of the Hands of the Cause
of God NOVEMBER 1964
To the Bahá'ís of the World
Beloved Friends,
20.1 Once again the World Center of our Faith has been the
scene of historic events, affecting profoundly the immediate
prosecution of the Nine Year Plan and the future development
of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh. The occasion was the
gathering in the Holy Land, for a period of fourteen days, of
the Hands of the Cause of God to discuss their vital
responsibilities, and particularly as Standard-Bearers of the
Nine Year Plan.
20.2 The Universal House of Justice took
advantage of this opportunity not only to receive the advice,
opinions and views of the Hands on the progress of the Nine
Year Plan but to consult them on the highly important goal
announced at Ridvan 1964 under World Center Goals as
"Development of the Institution of the Hands of the Cause of
God, in consultation with the body of the Hands of the Cause,
with a view to the extension into the future of its appointed
functions of protection and propagation."
20.3 It was apparent
that the elucidation of this vital goal, affecting as it does
the relationship of the Hands of the Cause of God to all other
institutions of the Cause, was imperative to the prosecution
of the all-important teaching work and the development of the
Bahá'í World Order.
20.4 Accordingly, the Universal House of
Justice gave its full attention to this matter and, after
study of the sacred texts and hearing the views of the Hands
of the Cause themselves, has arrived at the following
decisions:
20.4a There is no way to appoint, or to legislate
to make it possible to appoint, Hands of the Cause of God.
20.4b Responsibility for decisions on matters of general
policy affecting the Institution of the Hands of the Cause,
which was formerly exercised by the beloved Guardian, now
devolves upon the Universal House of Justice as the supreme
and central institution of the Faith to which all must turn.
20.5 It is with great joy that we are able to share with you
the initial steps now taken to attain the goal. Continental
Zones
20.6 The assignment of the Hands to various continents
remains unchanged but, in order to expedite the work, the
continents of Asia and the Western Hemisphere will each be
divided into zones for the day-to-day work of the
+45
Hands, one or more Hands being responsible for each zone. Asia
will consist of two zones: the Middle East comprising the
countries from and including Pakistan westwards and also
Asiatic U.S.S.R.; and South and East Asia comprising the
remainder of the continent. The Western Hemisphere will
consist of three zones: North America, Central America
(including Mexico) and the Antilles, and South America. The
Hawaiian Islands will be in the Australasian continental area,
as listed in the recently issued statistical summary.
Increases in Membership of Auxiliary Boards The number of
members of the Auxiliary Boards for the propagation Of 20.7
the Faith will be increased in every continent, raising the
total number of Auxiliary Board members in Africa from
eighteen to twenty-seven; in Asia from fourteen to thirty-six;
in Australasia from four to nine; in Europe from eighteen to
twenty-seven; and in the Western Hemisphere from eighteen to
thirty-six.
20.9 The Hands of the Cause in each continent are
called upon to appoint one 20.8 or more members of their
Auxiliary Boards to act in an executive capacity on behalf of
and in the name of each Hand, thereby assisting him in
carrying out his work.
Freeing Hands of the Cause from Elected or Appointed Positions
The exalted rank and specific functions of the Hands of the
Cause of God make it inappropriate for them to be elected
or appointed to administrative institutions, or to be elected
as delegates to national conventions. Furthermore, it is their
desire and the desire of the House of Justice that they be
free to devote their entire energies to the vitally important
duties conferred upon them in the Holy Writings. The
importance of close collaboration between the Hands of the
Cause and National Spiritual Assemblies cannot be
overstressed, and a separate communication is being addressed
to National Assemblies on this subject, supplementing guidance
given in earlier letters. We anticipate announcing at Ridvan
1965 plans for Oceanic and Intercontinental Conferences, an
overall plan for worldwide proclamation of the Faith during
1967-68, the centenary year of the revelation of the
Suriy-Muluk,2 involving cooperation of National and Local
Assemblies throughout the world, and conditions of entry for
a competition for the design of the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar of
Panama. Teaching the masses is the greatest challenge now
facing the followers Of
20.11 Bahá'u'lláh. No work is more
important than that of carrying His Message with utmost speed
to the bewildered and thirsting peoples of a spiritually
20-1. See messages dated October 1963 (no. 6) and 19 November
1963 (no. 10). See also the message dated November x964 that
follows. 20-2. The Suriy-i-Muluk is Bahá'u'lláh's Tablet to
the Kings, portions of which are published in Proclamation of
Bahá'u'lláh, pp. 7-12, 47-54, and 102- 03.
+46
parched world. Now, as the Hands return to their various
continents, reinforced by a wider and more efficient
organization of their work, we are confident that the whole
Bahá'í world will, with rising enthusiasm and ever-increasing
success, press forward with the teaching work, greatly
increase the flow of pioneers, more widely participate in the
financial support of the work of the Cause and add rapidly to
the list of goals already accomplished.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
21 Relationship of Hands of the Cause of God and the National
Spiritual Assemblies NOVEMBER 1964
To National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'í World
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
21.1 The gathering in the Holy Land of the Hands of the Cause
of God has been an occasion of vital significance to the
Faith. Please share the enclosed general message, as soon as
possible, with all believers under your jurisdiction.,
21.2
We now wish to elaborate the recent decisions as they affect
the relationship between the Institution of the Hands of the
Cause and yourselves, the National Spiritual Assemblies of the
world.
21.3 It is of the utmost importance that the Hands of
the Cause and National Spiritual Assemblies be fully informed
of the situation of the Cause in the areas for which they are
responsible. We ask you therefore to work out with the Hands
in your continent more efficient and easier methods of
communication. The sharing of National Assembly minutes with
the Hands of the Cause is entirely a matter for each National
Spiritual Assembly to decide, but it is vitally important for
you to regularly provide the Hands of the Cause with all
information which is necessary to their work, including copies
of pertinent committee reports.
21.4 The Hands of the Cause
are preparing a schedule of proposed meetings with National
Assemblies and will also be inviting members of National
Assemblies to meet them in conferences with their Board
members from time to time, a form of consultation which has
been found most effective wherever it has been practiced.
21.5
Members of Auxiliary Boards should be freed from
administrative
responsibilities including serving on Committees and as
delegates to conventions. In
ZI-1. See message no. 20.
+47
the event of any member of a National Assembly accepting
appointment to a Board, the National Assembly should accept
this as valid reason for that members resignation from the
Assembly; should a Board member be elected to a National
Assembly, he must choose on which body he will serve. We ask
each National Assembly to extend a warm and cordial invitation
21.6 to the Hands of its continent to attend its national
convention. All Hands of the Cause present should be given the
freedom of the convention. If no continental Hands can attend
a convention they may appoint one or two Board members to act
as special deputies for that convention, who will, of course,
be warmly welcomed and given the courtesy of taking part in
convention as deputies of the Hands.
21.7 The increase in the
numbers of Board members will inevitably be reflected in
an increase in the needs of the Continental Funds. This is a
matter for discussion with the Hands in your continent, and
we feel sure that you will do your utmost to meet the new
requirements, bearing in mind the importance which the
beloved Guardian attached to direct contributions to these
Funds by National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, as well as
by individual believers.
21.8 The fostering of this important
relationship between the exalted body of the Hands of the
Cause and the National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'í
world will inevitably strengthen the foundation and
functioning of the Cause of God and enable its embryonic world
order to grow as a healthy tree under whose shade all mankind
will eventually find security and peace.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE Universal HOUSE OF JUSTICE
22 Appointment of Five Continental Pioneer Committees 8
FEBRUARY 1965
To the National Spiritual Assemblies of Australia, the British
Isles, Germany, Persia and the United States
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
To intensify the prosecution of the Nine Year Plan we call
upon your
22.1 Assemblies to appoint Pioneer Committees
respectively for Australasia, Africa, Europe, Asia and the
Americas for raising up and deploying the huge army of
pioneers necessary to win the goals of the Plan. The
importance of this step is emphasized by the need, during the
coming
22.2 Bahá'í year, to settle no less than four hundred
and two pioneers in teaching and consolidation
areas-twenty-eight for Australasia, seventy-one for Africa,
+48
sixty-seven for Europe, one hundred and sixty-eight for Asia,
and sixty-eight for the Americas.
22.3 These Pioneer
Committees, to be appointed by and be responsible to your
respective National Assemblies, will have functions set forth
in the enclosed outline., Since they are essentially service
committees, a membership of three will suffice. The secretary
should be a competent and knowledgeable Bahá'í having time,
ability and facilities for carrying on a volume of
correspondence. All members of the committee should have
organizing ability as well as an aptitude for dealing with
problems in a warm and loving Bahá'í way.
22.4 The Pioneer
Committees will in no way infringe upon or substitute for
existing committees which your Assemblies may have already
appointed to deal with the teaching and pioneer requirements
of either internal or external goals assigned to your
Assembly. Rather they will supplement the work of existing
committees of all National Assemblies in the respective
continental areas, provide an effective means of exchange of
vital information, and assist in the processing of pioneer
applications and the transfer of pioneers to goal areas.
22.5
The Pioneer Committees should be appointed immediately, and,
as soon as acceptances have been received and the committees
organized, you should send us the names of the committee
members and the address of the committee for inclusion in a
dossier to be sent to all National Assemblies as an addendum
to the Ridvan message.
22.6 The Pioneer Committees should be
prepared to assume their full responsibilities and functions
at Ridvan so that no time will be lost in the rapid transfer
of pioneers to their posts, thus avoiding any possible
dampening of their spirits.
22.7 In the meantime, we will be
forwarding additional information and instructions which will
enable the committees to swing into action at Convention time.
Since announcement of the appointment of these committees will
be a part of the Ridvan message, your Assembly should wait
until the Convention to inform the friends of these plans.
22.8 Time is of the essence. It is imperative that we have the
names of Pioneer Committee members and the address of the
committee within thirty days of your receipt of these
instructions.
22.9 Assuring you of prayers at the Holy
Shrines.
Deepest love,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
22-1. The Universal House of Justice later assumed
responsibility for appointing the members of Continental
Pioneer Committees and transferred responsibility for
directing their work to the International Teaching Center (see
message dated 19 May 1983, no. 361). For other letters on the
evolving duties of Continental Pioneer Committees, see
messages dated Ridvan 1965, 18 March 1966, Ridvan 1966, and
22 July 1974 (nos. 24, 31, 34, and 148)
+49
Pioneer Committees
Responsibilities and Functions
1. To assist National Spiritual
Assemblies and their relevant committees in the 22.10
following respects:
a. Information on availability and qualifications of pioneers.
b. Act as a clearing house for information both continentally
and intercontinentally.
c. Determine travel and subsistence budgets needed.
d. Supply information on needs for pioneers in various localities within their respective continental areas, this information to be furnished initially by the Universal House of justice, and any later needs to be cleared through the Universal House of Justice.
e. Supply information on the types of pioneering service needed in specific localities, such as: for teaching in mass conversion areas, or for deepening in administration; also special qualifications for pioneers to specific localities (e.g., language, ethnic background, work opportunities, etc.), and useful information about the territory itself (e.g., climate, geography, living conditions, visas and governmental regulations).
II. To assist prospective pioneers in the following respects:
22.11 a. Place them in contact with the National Assemblies
and/or national committees responsible for settling or
consolidating specific localities in which pioneers would like
to serve or are qualified to serve.
b. Furnish useful
information (such as that set forth in items 1. d and e above)
which will enable the prospective pioneers to determine where,
when and how they can best volunteer their services.
c. Work out, in consultation with the relevant National Assembly and
the prospective pioneer, such assistance budgets as may be
necessary.
The Committee will obtain the information called for above
from the various National Assemblies (or their committees) in
their continental areas, and there should be an exchange of
vital information between the five Pioneer Committees.
22.13 Pioneer
Committees will in no case assume direct responsibility for
filling goals. Their function is in the nature of
secondary assistance to the
responsible or assisting National Assembly (or national
committee). If a National Assembly can fill a goal without
assistance, it need not consult a Pioneer Committee, but
should keep the relevant Pioneer Committee informed as to the
status of pioneer goals. Pioneer Committees will clear with
the prospective pioneer's own National
22.14 Assembly before
offering his services.
+50
22.15 Foremost is the Pioneer Committee's responsibility to
expedite
and facilitate the transfer of pioneers from the place where
they are to the goal areas where they will serve. Only such
procedures as will be useful to this purpose should be
adopted.
23 Election and Infallibility of the Universal House of
Justice 9 MARCH 1965 The National Spiritual Assembly of the
Bahá'ís of the Netherlands
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
23.1 We are glad that you have brought to our attention the
questions perplexing some of the believers. It is much better
for these questions to be put freely and openly than to have
them, unexpressed, burdening the hearts of devoted believers.
Once one grasps certain basic principles of the Revelation of
Bahá'u'lláh such uncertainties are easily dispelled. This is
not to say that the Cause of God contains no mysteries.
Mysteries there are indeed, but they are not of a kind to
shake one's faith once the essential tenets of the Cause and
the indisputable facts of any situation are clearly
understood.
23.2 The questions put by the various believers
fall into three groups. The first group centers upon the
following queries: Why were steps taken to elect a Universal
House of Justice with the foreknowledge that there would be
no Guardian? Was the time ripe for such an action? Could not
the International Bahá'í Council have carried on the work? The
Election of the Universal House of Justice
23.3 Alt the time
of our beloved Shoghi Effendi's death it was evident, from the
circumstances and from the explicit requirements of the Holy
Texts, that it had been impossible for him to appoint a
successor in accordance with the provisions of the Will and
Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá. This situation, in which the
Guardian died without being able to appoint a successor,
presented an obscure question not covered by the explicit Holy
Text, and had to be referred to the Universal House of
Justice. The friends should clearly understand that before the
election of the Universal House of Justice there was no
knowledge that there would be no Guardian. There could not
have been any such foreknowledge, whatever opinions individual
believers may have held. Neither the Hands of the Cause of
God, nor the International Bahá'í Council, nor any
+51
other existing body could make a decision upon this
all-important matter.' Only the House of Justice had authority
to pronounce upon it.
23.4 This was one urgent reason for calling
the election of the Universal House of Justice as soon as
possible. ' Following the passing of Shoghi Effendi the
international administration of the Faith was carried on
by the Hands of the Cause of God with the complete agreement
and loyalty of the National Spiritual Assemblies and the body
of the believers. This was in accordance with the Guardian's
designation of the Hands as the "Chief Stewards of
Bahá'u'lláh's embryonic World Commonwealth."2 From the very
outset of their custodianship of the Cause of God the Hands
23.5 realized that since they had no certainty of divine
guidance such as is incontrovertibly assured to the Guardian
and to the Universal House of Justice, their one safe course
was to follow with undeviating firmness the instructions and
policies of Shoghi Effendi. The entire history of religion
shows no comparable record of such strict self-discipline,
such absolute loyalty and such complete self-abnegation by the
leaders of a religion finding themselves
suddenly deprived of their divinely inspired guide. The debt
of gratitude which mankind for generations, nay, ages to come,
owes to this handful of grief-stricken, steadfast, heroic
souls is beyond estimation. The Guardian had given the Bahá'í
world explicit and detailed plans Covering the period until
Ridvan 1963, the end of the Ten Year Crusade. From that point
onward, unless the Faith were to be endangered, further divine
guidance was essential. This was the second pressing reason
for the calling of the election of the Universal House of
Justice. The rightness of the time was further confirmed by
references in Shoghi Effendi's letters to the Ten Year
Crusade's being followed by other plans under the direction
of the Universal House of Justice. One such reference is the
following passage from a letter addressed to the National
Spiritual Assembly of the British Isles on 25th February 1951,
concerning its Two Year Plan which immediately preceded the
Ten Year Crusade:
On the success of this enterprise, unprecedented in its scope,
unique 23.6a in its character and immense in its spiritual
potentialities, must depend the initiation, at a later period
in the Formative Age of the Faith, of undertakings embracing
within their range all National Assemblies functioning
throughout the Bahá'í world-undertakings constituting in 23-1.
The International Bahá'í Council, first appointed by Shoghi
Effendi in 1951 and, after his passing, elected in 1961 by
members of National Spiritual Assemblies, was a precursor of
the Universal House of Justice. It ceased to exist upon the
election of the Universal House of Justice in 1963. 23-2. MBW,
p. 127.
+52
themselves a prelude to the launching of worldwide enterprises
destined to be embarked upon, in future epochs of that same
Age, by the Universal House of Justice, that will symbolize
the unity and coordinate and unify the activities of these
National Assemblies.3
23.7 Having been in charge of the Cause
of God for six years, the Hands, with absolute faith in the
Holy Writings, called upon the believers to elect the
Universal House of Justice, and even went so far as to ask
that they themselves be not voted for. The sole, sad instance
of anyone succumbing to the allurements of power was the
pitiful attempt of Charles Mason Remey to usurp the
Guardianship.4 Principles Governing the Election of the House
of Justice
23.8 The following excerpts from a Tablet of
'Abdu'l-Bahá state clearly and emphatically the principles
with which the friends are already familiar from the Will and
Testament of the Master and the various letters of Shoghi
Effendi, and explain the basis for the election of the
Universal House of Justice. This Tablet was sent to Persia by
the beloved Guardian himself, in the early years of his
ministry, for circulation among the believers. 23.9 . . . for
'Abdu'l-Bahá is in a tempest of dangers and infinitely abhors
differences of opinion . . . Praise be to God, there are no
grounds for differences.
23.10 The Bab, the Exalted One, is
the Morn of Truth, the splendor of Whose light shineth through
all regions. He is also the Harbinger of the Most Great Light,
the Abha Luminary. The Blessed Beauty is the One promised by
the sacred books of the past, the revelation of the Source of
light that shone upon Mount Sinai, Whose fire glowed in the
midst of the Burning Bush. We are, one and all, servants of
Their threshold, and stand each as a lowly keeper at Their
door.
23.11 My purpose is this, that ere the expiration of a
thousand years, no one has the right to utter a single word,
even to claim the station of Guardianship. The Most Holy Book
is the Book to which all peoples shall refer, and in it the
Laws of God have been revealed. Laws not mentioned
___ 23-3. UD, P. 261. 23-4. Charles Mason Remey, a prominent
early American believer who was much loved by Abdu'l-Baha,
traveled widely in service to the Faith. In January 1951 he
was appointed by Shoghi Effendi to be President of the
International Bahá'í Council and, the following year, was
appointed a Hand of the Cause of God to serve in the Holy
Land. After the passing of Shoghi Effendi on 4 November 1957,
Charles Mason Remey served as one of the nine Custodian Hands
designated by the body of the Hands of the Cause to administer
the Faith from Haifa. In April 1960 he proclaimed himself to
be the Second Guardian of the Cause (see BW 13:353 n). This
attempt to usurp the Guardianship resulted in his expulsion
from the Faith as a Covenant-breaker. For the announcement of
his passing, see the message dated 5 April 1974 (no. 144).
+53
in the Book should be referred to the decision of the
Universal House of Justice. There will be no grounds for
difference . . . Beware, beware lest anyone create a rift or
stir up sedition. Should there be differences of opinion, the
Supreme House of Justice would immediately resolve the
problems. Whatever will be its decision, by majority vote,
shall be the real truth, inasmuch as that House is under the
protection, unerring guidance and care of the one true Lord.
He shall guard it from error and will protect it under the
wing of His sanctity and infallibility. He who opposes it is
cast out and will eventually be of the defeated. The Supreme
House of Justice should be elected according to the 23.12
system followed in the election of the parliaments of Europe.
And when the countries would be guided, the Houses of justice
of the various countries would elect the Supreme House of
Justice.
23.13 At whatever time all the beloved of God in each
country appoint their delegates, and these in turn elect
their representatives, and these representatives elect a body,
that body shall be regarded as the Supreme House of Justice.
The establishment of that House is not dependent upon the
conversion of all the nations of the world. For example, if
conditions were favorable and no disturbances would be caused,
the friends in Persia would elect their representatives, and
likewise the friends in America, in India, and other areas
would also elect their representatives, and these would elect
a House of Justice. That House of justice would be the Supreme
House of Justice.
23.15 That is all.
(Makdtib-i-Abdu'1-Baha, Vol. 111, pp. 500-500
The friends should realize that there is nothing in the Texts
to indicate that the election of the Universal House of
Justice could be called only by the Guardian. On the contrary,
'Abdu'l-Bahá envisaged the calling of its election in His own
lifetime. At a time described by the Guardian as "the darkest
moments of His [the Master's] life, under Abdu'l-Hamid's
regime, when He stood ready to be deported to the most
inhospitable regions of Northern Africa," and when even His
life was threatened, 'Abdu'l-Bahá wrote to Haji Mirza Taqi
Afnan, the cousin of the Bab and chief builder of the
'Ishqabad Temple, commanding him to arrange for the election
of the Universal House of Justice should the threats against
the Master materialize.5 The second part of the Master's Will
is also relevant to such a situation and should be studied by
the friends.
23-5. WT, P. 20; WOB, P. 17
+54
The Authority of the Universal House of Justice
23.16 The second series of problems vexing some of the friends
centers on the question of the infallibility of the Universal
House of Justice and its ability to function without the
presence of the Guardian. Particular difficulty has been
experienced in understanding the implications of the following
statement by the beloved Guardian:
23.16a Divorced from the institution of the Guardianship the
World Order of Bahá'u'lláh would be mutilated and permanently
deprived of that hereditary principle which, as 'Abdu'l-Bahá
has written, has been invariably upheld by the Law of God. "In
all the Divine Dispensations," He states, in a Tablet
addressed to a follower of the Faith in Persia, "the eldest
son hath been given extraordinary distinctions. Even the
station of prophethood hath been his birthright." Without such
an institution the integrity of the Faith would be imperiled,
and the stability of the entire fabric would be gravely
endangered. Its prestige would suffer, the means required to
enable it to take a long, an uninterrupted view over a series
of generations would be completely lacking, and the necessary
guidance to define the sphere of the legislative action of its
elected representatives would be totally withdrawn. ("The
Dispensation of Bahá'u'lláh," The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh,
p. 148)
23.17 Let the friends who wish for a clearer
understanding of this passage at the present time consider it
in the light of the many other texts which deal with the same
subject, for example the following passages gleaned from the
letters of Shoghi Effendi:
23.17a They have also, in
unequivocal and emphatic language, appointed those twin
institutions of the House of Justice and of the Guardianship
as their chosen Successors, destined to apply the principles,
promulgate the laws, protect the institutions, adapt loyally
and intelligently the Faith to the requirements of progressive
society, and consummate the incorruptible inheritance which
the Founders of the Faith have bequeathed to the world.
(Letter dated 21 March 1930, The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh,
p. 20)
23.17b It must be also clearly understood by every
believer that the institution of Guardianship does not under
any circumstances abrogate, or even in the slightest degree
detract from, the powers granted to the Universal House of
Justice by Bahá'u'lláh in the "Kitabu'l-Aqdas," and repeatedly
and solemnly confirmed by 'Abdu'l-Bahá in His Will. It does
not constitute in any manner a contradiction to the Will and
Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, nor does it nullify any of His
revealed instructions. It
+55
enhances the prestige of that exalted assembly, stabilizes its
supreme position, safeguards its unity, assures the continuity
of its labors, without presuming in the slightest to infringe
upon the inviolability of its clearly defined sphere of
jurisdiction. We stand indeed too close to so monumental a
document to claim for ourselves a complete understanding of
all its implications, or to presume to have grasped the
manifold mysteries it undoubtedly contains.... (Letter dated
27 February 1929, The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, p. 8)
From these statements it is made indubitably clear and evident
that
23.1 7C the Guardian. of the Faith has been made the
Interpreter of the Word and that the Universal House of
Justice has been invested with the function of legislating on
matters not expressly revealed in the teachings. The
interpretation of the Guardian, functioning within his own
sphere, is as authoritative and binding as the enactments of
the International House of Justice, whose exclusive right and
prerogative is to pronounce upon and deliver the final
judgment on such laws and ordinances as Bahá'u'lláh has not
expressly revealed. Neither can, nor will ever, infringe upon
the sacred and prescribed domain of the other. Neither will
seek to curtail the specific and undoubted authority with
which both have been divinely invested. ("The Dispensation of
Bahá'u'lláh," The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, pp. 11 49-50)
Each exercises, within the limitations imposed upon it, its
powers, its 23.17d authority, its rights and prerogatives.
These are neither contradictory, nor detract in the slightest
degree from the position which each of these institutions
occupies. ("The Dispensation of BaMV16h," The World Order of
Bahá'u'lláh, p. 148) Though the Guardian of the Faith has been
made the permanent 23.17e head of so august a body he can
never, even temporarily, assume the right of exclusive
legislation. He cannot override the decision of the majority
of his fellow-members ("The Dispensation of Bahá'u'lláh," The
World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, p. 150)
Above all, let the hearts of the friends be assured by these
words of
23.18 Bahá'u'lláh:
The Hand of Omnipotence hath established His Revelation upon
an 23.18a unassailable, an enduring foundation. Storms of
human strife are powerless to, undermine its basis, nor will
men's fanciful theories succeed in damaging its structure.
(The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, p. 109)
+56
and these of 'Abdu'l-Bahá:
23.18b Verily, God effecteth that which He pleaseth; naught
can annul His Covenant; naught can obstruct His favor nor
oppose His Cause! He doeth with His will that which pleaseth
Him and He is powerful over all things! (Tablets of
Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, Vol. III, P. 598)
23.19 It should be
understood by the friends that before legislating upon any
matter the Universal House of Justice studies carefully and
exhaustively both the Sacred Texts and the Writings of Shoghi
Effendi on the subject. The interpretations written by the
beloved Guardian cover a vast range of subjects and are
equally as binding as the Text itself. Interpretations of the
Guardian and Elucidations of the Universal House of Justice
23.20 There is a profound difference
between the interpretations of the Guardian and the
elucidations of the House of Justice in exercise of its
function to "deliberate upon all problems which have caused
difference, questions that are obscure and matters that are
not expressly recorded in the Book." The Guardian reveals what
the Scripture means; his interpretation is a statement of
truth which cannot be varied. Upon the Universal House of
Justice, in the words of the Guardian, "has been conferred the
exclusive right of legislating on matters not expressly
revealed in the Bahá'í writings.116 Its pronouncements, which
are susceptible of amendment or abrogation by the House of
Justice itself, serve to supplement and apply the Law of God.
Although not invested with the function of interpretation, the
House of Justice is in a position to do everything necessary
to establish the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh on this earth.
Unity of doctrine is maintained by the existence of the
authentic texts of Scripture and the voluminous
interpretations of Abdu'l-Baha and Shoghi Effendi together
with the absolute prohibition against anyone propounding
"authoritative" or "inspired" interpretations or usurping the
function of Guardian. Unity of administration is assured by
the authority of the Universal House of justice. 23.21 'such,"
in the words of Shoghi Effendi, "is the
immutability of His revealed Word. Such is the elasticity
which
characterizes the functions of His appointed ministers. The
first preserves the identity of His Faith, and guards the
integrity of His law. The second enables it, even as a living
organism, to expand and adapt itself to the needs and
requirements of an ever-changing
society." (Letter dated 21 March 1930, The World Order of
Bahá'u'lláh, p. 23)
23-6. WOB, P. 153.
+57
Every true believer, if he is to deepen in his understanding
of the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh must needs combine profound faith
in the unfailing efficacy of His Message and His Covenant,
with the humility of recognizing that no one of this
generation can claim to have
embraced the vastness of His Cause nor to have comprehended
the
manifold mysteries and potentialities it contains. The words
of Shoghi Effendi bear ample testimony to this fact:
How vast is the Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh! How great the
magnitude of 23.22. His blessings showered upon humanity in
this day! And yet, how poor, how inadequate our conception of
their significance and glory! This generation stands too close
to so colossal a Revelation to appreciate, in their full
measure, the infinite possibilities of His Faith, the
unprecedented character of His Cause, and the mysterious
dispensations of His Providence. (Letter dated 21 March 1930,
The World Order Bahá'u'lláh, p. 24) We are called upon by our
beloved Master in His Will and Testament 23.22b not only to
adopt it [Bahá'u'lláh's new world order] unreservedly, but to
unveil its merit to all the world. To attempt to estimate its
full value, and grasp its exact significance after so short
a time since its inception would be premature and presumptuous
on our part. We must trust to time, and the guidance of God's
Universal House of Justice, to obtain a clearer and fuller
understanding of its provisions and implications (Letter dated
23 February 1924, published in Bahá'í Administration, p. 62)
As to the order and the management of the spiritual affairs
of the 23.22c friends, that which is very important now is the
consolidation of the Spiritual Assemblies in every center,
because on these fortified and unshakable foundations, God's
Supreme House of justice shall be erected and firmly
established in the days to come. When this most great Edifice
shall be reared on such an immovable foundation, Gods purpose,
wisdom, universal truths, mysteries and realities of the
Kingdom, which the mystic revelation of Bahá'u'lláh has
deposited within the Will and Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, shall
gradually be revealed and made manifest. (Letter dated 19
December 1923-translated from the Persian)
Statements such as these indicate that the full meaning of the
Will and
23.23 Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, as well as an
understanding of the implications of the World Order ushered
in by that remarkable document can be revealed only gradually
to men's eyes, and after the Universal House of Justice has
come into being. The friends are called upon to trust to time
and to await the guidance of the Universal House of Justice,
which, as circumstances require, will make pronouncements that
will resolve and clarify obscure matters.
+58
The Authority to Expel Members of the House of Justice
23.24 The third group of queries raised by the friends
concerns details of functioning of the Universal House of
Justice in the absence of the Guardian, particularly the
matter of expulsion of members of the House of Justice. Such
questions will be clarified in the Constitution of the House
of Justice, the formulation of which is a goal of the Nine
Year Plan. Meanwhile the friends are informed that any member
committing a 'sin injurious to the common weal," may be
expelled from membership of the House of Justice by a majority
vote of the House itself.7 Should any member, God forbid, be
guilty of breaking the Covenant, the matter would be
investigated by the Hands of the Cause of God, and the
Covenant-breaker would be expelled by decision of the Hands
of the Cause of God residing in the Holy Land, subject to the
approval of the House of Justice, as in the case of any other
believer. The decision of the Hands in such a case would be
announced to the Bahá'í world by the Universal House of
Justice.
23.25 We are certain that when you share this letter
with the friends and they have these quotations from the
Scriptures and the Writings of the Guardian drawn to their
attention, their doubts and misgivings will be dispelled and
they will be able to devote their every effort to spreading
the Message of Bahá'u'lláh, serenely confident in the power
of His Covenant to overcome whatever tests an inscrutable
Providence may shower upon it, thus demonstrating its ability
to redeem a travailing world and to upraise the Standard of
the Kingdom of God on earth.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
23-7- WT, P. 14. See also CUHJ, p. 12.
+59
24 Ridvan Message 1965 RIDVAN 1965
The Bahá'ís of the World
Dearly loved Friends,
24.1 The tide of victory which carried the Bahá'í World
community to the celebrations of the Most Great Jubilee is
still rising. A ceaseless shower of divine confirmation rains
upon our efforts, its evidences apparent in the many
noteworthy achievements of the few brief months since the
launching of the Nine Year Plan. The most spectacular of these
is the increase in the number of centers where Bahá'ís reside
from fifteen thousand one hundred and sixty-eight at Ridvan
1964 to twenty-one thousand and six at the present time, an
increase of nearly six thousand in one year. No less
remarkable is the progress of the teaching work in India where
the number of believers now exceeds a hundred and forty
thousand, an increase of more than thirty thousand since
Ridvan 1964. Pioneers are moving to those few remaining
territories of the earth as yet unillumined by the light of
God's new Revelation; 11 the vast increase" in the size of the
Cause, called for at the launching of the Plan, appears to be
developing, while in country after country the institutions
and endowments of the Faith are being steadily and firmly
established.
24.2 World Center Goals During the past twelve months
the goals assigned to the World Center have been actively
pursued. Basic decisions and actions to implement the goal of
"Development of the Institution of the Hands of the Cause of
God, with a view to extension into the future of its appointed
functions of protection and propagation," have already been
conveyed to the friends. Following their meeting in the Holy
Land last October, the members of this august body, the
Standard-Bearers of this Nine Year Plan as well as of the
beloved Guardian's Ten Year Crusade, already laden with honors
and services, have arisen with renewed and matchless vigor to
rouse the spirits of the friends to meet the supreme teaching
challenge., to lend their counsel and assistance to the
administrative bodies, and to diffuse the divine fragrances
and love of God through all the world. The increase in the
numbers of Board members and the new executive arrangements
will, it is confidently anticipated, enable the beloved Hands
to discharge their important duties with even greater
effectiveness and give them more time to travel and teach.
24.3 A
preliminary survey of the conditions affecting the
construction of the first Mashriqu'l-Adhkar of Latin
America, one of the two edifices to be erected during the
Plan, has already been undertaken, and we now invite Bahá'í
and
+60
non-Bahá'í architects to submit designs for the Panama
Temple., The terms and conditions of the submission, and the
specifications of the structure, may be obtained from the
National Spiritual Assembly of Panama, whose choice of design
will be subject to the ultimate approval of the Universal
House of Justice. It is our hope that the construction of this
sacred House of Worship, in a location accorded such special
significance by both the Master and the Guardian, will be
speedily accomplished, so that its beacon of spiritual light
may radiate to all the Americas. Worldwide Achievements
24.4
During the past twelve months the following new territories
have been opened to the Faith: in the continent of Africa,
Gabon, Ifni, Mah, Mauritania, Rodrigues Island and Upper
Volta; in the continent of America, Aruba Island, Cozumel
Island, Guadeloupe, Las Mujeres Island, Prince of Wales Island
and St. Vincent; in the continent of Asia, the Ryukyu Islands;
in the continent of Australasia, the Line Islands; in the
continent of Europe, the Isle of Wight, the East and West
Frisian Islands. The following territories have been reopened:
in the continent of Africa, Mafia Island; in the continent of
America,
Antigua, French Guiana and Martinique; West Irian in the
continent of Asia; and Admiralty Islands in Australasia.
National Haziratu'l-Quds have been acquired in nine places,
the seats of National Spiritual Assemblies, and land has been
acquired in two others on which to build this institution. Six
National Spiritual Assemblies have become incorporated and the
Faith has been recognized in Cambodia, a country destined to
have its own National Spiritual Assembly during the Nine Year
Plan. National Endowments have been acquired in eight
countries; six Teaching Institutes have been established, and
land has been acquired for six others; a Bahá'í Publishing
Trust for the provision of literature in the French language
has been established in Brussels; Bahá'í Holy Days have been
recognized in three territories; Bahá'í literature has been
published in the following eleven new languages: Ibibio-Efik
in the continent of Africa, Aguacateca, Athabascan, Carifia
and Motilon Yukpa in the continent of America, Kenyah, Melanau
and Temiar in the continent of Asia, and Gharil Marshallese
and Motua in Australasia. The progress of the Cause in Borneo
makes possible the achievement of a goal supplementary to the
Plan, namely the establishment at Ridvan 1966 of the National
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Brunei. Two Conditions
of the Bahá'í World Community
24.5 The passage of the first
year of the Plan discloses two conditions in the Bahá'í World
community. The first, within the Faith itself, is its capacity
to 24-1. The other edifice that was to be erected during the
Nine Year Plan was the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar planned for Tehran,
Iran. Due to antagonism toward the Bahá'í Faith in that
country, plans for its construction were held in abeyance.
+61
accomplish all and any definitive goals assigned to it, goals
such as the purchasing of Haziratu'l-Quds, Temple Sites,
Endowments, or the incorporation of Spiritual Assemblies; such
objective and highly important goals as these, by which the
Cause is established physically, legally and socially in the
world, are now taken in its stride by the Administrative
Order. It should be noted, moreover, that the accomplishment
of many goals of this type, involves inter-Assembly
cooperation, an international activity vital to the
development of world order. The second condition apparent
after the passage of the first year of the
24.6 Plan, involves
the relationship of the Cause to humanity. Almost universally
there is a sense of an impending breakthrough in large-scale
conversion. Reports of the Hands of the Cause and of Board
members constantly mention it; many National Spiritual
Assemblies believe that they have reached the shores of this
ocean. And, indeed, entry into the Cause by troops has been
a fact in some areas for a number of years. But greater things
are ahead. The teaching of the Faith must enkindle a
world-encircling fire in whose light the Cause and the
world-protagonists of the greatest drama in human history are
clearly illumined. Destiny is carrying us to this climax; we
must gird ourselves for heroism.
Four Immediate Tasks Four challenging and immediate tasks
present themselves.
24.7 The first is to raise and dispatch,
during the coming year, no less than four hundred and sixty
pioneers who will open the fifty-four remaining virgin
territories of the Plan, resettle the eighteen unoccupied
ones, reinforce areas where the numbers and cohesion of the
Bahá'í communities are at present inadequate to launch
effective teaching plans, and support and extend the work in
the areas of mass teaching.
24.8 Let every believer consider this
challenge, be he, in the words of the beloved Guardian, "in
active service or not, of either sex, young as well as old,
rich or poor, whether veteran or newly enrolled . . ." To
assist the pioneer efforts of the friends and their transfer
to their Posts during the next twelve months we announce
the formation of five Continental Pioneer Committees, namely:
Pioneer Committee for Africa appointed by the National
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the British Isles;
Pioneer Committee for the Americas appointed by the National
Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United States;
Pioneer Committee for Asia appointed by the National Spiritual
Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Persia; Pioneer Committee for
Australasia appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly of
the Bahá'ís of Australia; Pioneer Committee for Europe
appointed by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís
of Germany. These Committees will in no way infringe the
responsibilities of other pioneer Committees, or of National
Spiritual Assemblies, who are in charge of the teaching work,
and under whose jurisdiction they will function. They are
+62
established to facilitate and assist the work of these
national
bodies by providing effective exchange of vital information,
both continentally and intercontinentally, by assisting in the
routing of pioneer offers and in the transfer of pioneers to
their posts.
24.10 A careful estimate has been made of the
pioneer needs of every area during the next twelve months and
the result, including those for the seventy-two areas
mentioned above, is a call for four hundred and sixty-one
pioneers; eighty-six for Africa, ninety-six for the Americas,
one hundred and ninety-one for Asia, twenty-nine for
Australasia, and fifty-nine for Europe. Each National
Spiritual
Assembly has been consulted as to its pioneer needs and these
have been made known to all National Spiritual Assemblies as
well as to the five Continental Pioneer Committees, who will
be kept currently informed of progress by the National
Spiritual Assemblies. The friends, therefore, are urged to
consult their National Spiritual Assemblies for information
about pioneer needs and responsibilities both of their own
communities and in general.
24.11 For the first time in Bahá'í
history, an International Deputization Fund has been
established at the World Center under the administration of
the Universal House of Justice. From it supplementary support
will be given to specific pioneering projects when other funds
are not available. All friends, and particularly those who are
unable to respond to the pioneer call are invited to support
this Fund, mindful of the injunction of Bahá'u'lláh, "Center
your energies in the
propagation of the Faith of God. Whoso is worthy of so high
a Calling, let him arise and promote it. Whoso is unable, it
is his duty to appoint him who will, in his stead, proclaim
this Revelation, Whose power hath caused the foundations of
the mightiest structures to quake, every mountain to be
crushed into dust, and every soul to be dumbfounded.",
24.12
The second challenge facing us is to raise the intensity of
teaching to a pitch never before attained, in order to realize
that "vast increase" called for in the Plan. Universal
participation and constant action will win this goal. Every
believer has a part to play, and is capable of playing it, for
every soul meets others, and, as promised by Bahá'u'lláh,
"Whosoever ariseth to aid Our Cause God will render him
victorious . . ."3 The confusion of the world is not
diminishing, rather does it increase with each passing day,
and men and women are losing faith in human remedies.
Realization is at last dawning that "There is no place to flee
to" save God.4 Now is the golden opportunity; people are
willing, in many places eager, to listen to the divine remedy.
24.13 The third challenge is to acquire as rapidly as possible
all the remaining National Haziratu'l-Quds', Temple Sites,
National Endowments and Teaching Institutes called for in the
Plan. The speedy conclusion of these projects will
24-2. GWB, pp. 196-9724-3. Quoted in MBW, p. 101. 24-4. GWB,
P. 703.
+63
save tremendous expense later and endow the Faith with
increasingly valuable properties. These basic possessions are
the embryos of mighty institutions of the future, but it is
this generation, which, for its own protection and as its gift
to posterity, must acquire them. We call upon the National
Spiritual Assemblies charged with responsibility in this field
to accord it high priority. A further, but equally important
consideration, is, that the achievement of this goal in the
early years of the Plan will liberate the energies and
resources of the growing world community for a concentrated,
resolute and relentless pursuit in its later stages of great
victories whose foundations are now being laid.
The Centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's Proclamation to the Kings The
fourth challenge is to prepare national and local plans for
the befitting celebration of the centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's
proclamation of His Message in September/October, 1867, to the
kings and rulers of the world, celebrations to be followed
during the remainder of the Nine Year Plan by a sustained and
well-planned program of proclamation of that same Message to
the generality of mankind. A review of the historic
proclamation by Bahá'u'lláh, as described by Shoghi
24.15
Effendi in God Passes By, reveals that its "opening notes"
were 'sounded during the latter part of Bahá'u'lláh's
banishment to Adrianople," and that, six years later, it
"closed during the early years of His incarceration in the
prison-fortress of 'Akka." These "opening notes" were the
mighty and awe-inspiring words addressed by Him to the kings
and rulers collectively in the Suriy-i-Muluk, 11 the most
momentous Tablet revealed by Bahá'u'lláh." It was penned some
time during the months of September and October, 1867, and was
followed by "Tablets unnumbered ... in which the implications
of His newly-asserted claims were fully expounded." "Kings and
emperors, severally and collectively; the chief magistrates
of the Republics of the American continent; ministers and
ambassadors; the Sovereign Pontiff himself; the Vicar of the
Prophet of Islam; the royal Trustee of the Kingdom of the
Hidden Imam; the monarchs of Christendom, its patriarchs,
archbishops, bishops, priests and monks; the recognized
leaders of both the Sunni and Shi'ah sacerdotal orders; the
high priests of the Zoroastrian religion; the philosophers,
the ecclesiastical leaders, the wise men and the inhabitants
of Constantinople-that proud seat of both the Sultanate and
the Caliphate; the entire company of the professed adherents
of the Zoroastrian, the Jewish, the Christian and Muslim
Faiths; the people of the Bayan; the wise men of the world,
its men of letters, its poets, its mystics, its tradesmen, the
elected representatives of its peoples; His own countrymen';
all were "brought directly within the purview of the
exhortations, the warnings, the appeals, the declarations and
the prophecies which constitute the theme of His momentous
summons to the leaders of mankind . . ." "Unique and
stupendous as was this proclamation, it proved
+64
to be but a prelude to a still mightier revelation of the
creative power of its Author, and to what may well rank as the
most signal act of His ministry the promulgation of the
Kitab-i-Aqdas."5 In this, the Most Holy Book, revealed in
1873, Bahá'u'lláh not only once more announces to the kings
of the earth collectively that "He Who is the King of Kings
hath appeared" but addresses reigning sovereigns
distinctively by name and proclaims to the "Rulers of America
and the Presidents of the Republics therein" that "the
Promised One hath appeared. 116 Such was the proclamation of
Bahá'u'lláh to mankind. As He Himself testified, "Never since
the beginning of the world hath the Message been so openly
proclaimed."7
24.16 The celebration of this fate-laden
centenary period will open with a visit, in September x967,
on the Feast of Mashiyyat, by a few appointed representatives
of the Bahá'í World to the site of the house in Adrianople,
where the historic Suriy-i-Muluk was revealed. Six
Intercontinental Conferences
24.17 Immediately following this
joyful and pious act, six Intercontinental Conferences will
be simultaneously held during the month of October in Panama
City, Wilmette, Sydney, Kampala, Frankfurt, and New Delhi. The
host and convener of each Conference will be the National
Spiritual Assembly in whose area it takes place. The following
Hands of the Cause of God will represent the Universal House
of Justice at these Conferences: Panama City-Amatu'l-Baha
Ruhiyyih Khanum, who will, on that occasion, lay the
foundation stone of the Temple; Wilmette-Leroy Ioas;
Sydney-Ugo Giachery; Kampala Ali-Akbar Furutan; Frankfurt-Paul
Haney; New Delhi-Abu'l-Qasim Faizi.
24.18 All National
Spiritual Assemblies are called upon to arrange befitting
observances, on a national and local scale, of the opening of
the centenary period during September/October, 1967, and
between the above Conferences and Ridvan 1968, at which time
the second International Convention for the election of the
Universal House of Justice will be held at the World Center.
24.19 The successful carrying out of all these plans will
constitute a befitting commemoration, commensurate with the
resources of the Bahá'í World community, of the sacred event
they recall. A Period of Proclamation
24.20 These six
Conferences, like the epoch-making event whose centenary they
commemorate, will sound the "opening notes" of a period of
proclamation of the Cause of God extending through the
remaining years of the Nine Year Plan to the centenary, in
1973, of the Revelation of the Kit6b-i-Aqdas, an
24-5. See GPB, Pp. 212, 171, 212, 213. 24-6. GWB, P. 211; PB,
p. 63; KA T88. 24-7. Quoted in GPB, P. 212,
+65
activity which calls for the ardent and imaginative study of
all National and Local Spiritual Assemblies throughout the
world.
24.21 The international scene will witness the holding of
Oceanic Conferences forecast by Shoghi Effendi. The
first one will be held during August 1968 on an island in the
Mediterranean Sea to commemorate Bahá'u'lláh's voyage upon
that sea, a hundred years before, from Gallipoli in Turkey to
the Most Great Prison in 'Akka.
24.22 In the subsequent years of the
Nine Year Plan, others will be held in the Atlantic Ocean, in
the Caribbean Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and the Indian Ocean.
In calling upon all National Spiritual Assemblies to consider
now the appointment of National Proclamation Committees
charged with laying feasible and effective plans for the
proclamation of the Faith throughout the entire centenary
period, we can do no better than call attention to the
following passage from a letter written by our beloved
Guardian in connection with the celebrations of the centenary
of the birth of the Bahá'í Era:
An unprecedented, a carefully conceived, efficiently
co-ordinated, 24.22. nation-wide campaign, aiming at the
proclamation of the Message of Bahá'u'lláh, through speeches,
articles in the press, and radio broadcasts, should be
promptly initiated and vigorously prosecuted. The universality
of the Faith, its aims and purposes, episodes in its dramatic
history, testimonials to its transforming power, and the
character and distinguishing features of its World Order
should be emphasized and explained to the general public, and
particularly to eminent friends and leaders sympathetic to its
cause, who should be approached and invited to participate in
the celebrations.
24.23 Lectures, conferences, banquets, special
publications should, to whatever extent is practicable and
according to the resources at the disposal of the believers,
proclaim the character of this joyous Festival.' Gathering
Momentum of the Process Launched in 1953 The majestic process
launched by our beloved Guardian in 1953, when he called
the widely scattered, obscure Bahá'í World community to embark
upon that first, glorious, world-encompassing crusade, is
gathering momentum, and posterity may well gaze with awe upon
the development, by so small a fraction of the human race and
in a world entangled in opposition, enmity and disruption, of
the very pattern and sinews of world order. This divinely
propelled and long-promised development must continue its
historic course until its final consummation in the glories
and splendors of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, the Kingdom
of God on earth.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
24-8. NIA, p. 62.
+66
25 Passing of the Hand of the Cause of God Leroy Ioas 22 JULY
1965 To the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States
25.1 GRIEVE ANNOUNCE PASSING OUTSTANDING HAND CAUSE LEROY
IOAS. HIS LONG SERVICE BAHA'I COMMUNITY UNITED STATES CROWNED
ELEVATION RANK HAND FAITH PAVING WAY HISTORIC DISTINGUISHED
SERVICES HOLY LAND. APPOINTMENT FIRST SECRETARY GENERAL
INTERNATIONAL BAHA'I COUNCIL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE GUARDIAN
FAITH TWO INTERCONTINENTAL CONFERENCES ASSOCIATION HIS NAME
BY BELOVED GUARDIAN OCTAGON DOOR BAB'S SHRINE TRIBUTE
SUPERVISORY WORK DRUM DOME THAT HOLY SEPULCHER NOTABLE PART
ERECTION INTERNATIONAL ARCHIVES BUILDING ALL ENSURE HIS NAME
IMMORTAL ANNALS FAITH. LAID TO REST Bahá'í CEMETERY CLOSE
FELLOW HANDS ADVISE HOLD BEFITTING MEMORIAL SERVICES. . . .'
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
26 Purification of the Most Holy Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh, the
Qiblih of the Bahá'í World ii NOVEMBER 1965
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
26.1 ANNOUNCE BAHA'I WORLD REMOVAL FROM IMMEDIATE PRECINCTS
HOLY
SHRINE BAHA'U'LLAH REMAINS MIRZA DIYA'U'LLAH YOUNGER BROTHER
MIRZA MUHAMMAD ALI HIS ACCOMPLICE IN EFFORTS SUBVERT
FOUNDATIONS COVENANT GOD SOON AFTER ASCENSION BAHA'U'LLAH.
THIS FINAL STEP IN PROCESS PURIFICATION SACRED INTERNATIONAL
ENDOWMENTS FAITH IN BAHJI FROM PAST CONTAMINATION WAS
PROVIDENTIALLY UNDERTAKEN UPON REQUEST FAMILY OLD COVENANT
BREAKERS A PROCESS WHOSE INITIAL STAGE WAS FULFILLED BY
ABDU'L-BAHA WHICH GATHERED MOMENTUM EARLY YEARS BELOVED
GUARDIAN'S MINISTRY THROUGH EVACUATION MANSION ATTAINED CLIMAX
THROUGH PURIFICATION HARAM-I-AQDAS AND NOW CONSUMMATED THROUGH
CLEANSING INNER SANCTUARY MOST HALLOWED SHRINE QIBLIH Bahá'í
WORLD PRESAGING EVENTUAL CONSTRUCTION BEFITTING MAUSOLEUM AS
ANTICIPATED BELOVED SIGN GOD ON EARTH.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
25-1. For an account of the life and services of Leroy Ioas,
see BW 14:291-300. For an explanation of the International
Bahá'í Council, see the glossary.
+67
27 Reasons for Delay in Translating and Publishing the
Kitab-i-Aqdas 6 DECEMBER 1965
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United
States
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
We have received a number of inquiries as to the translation
and publication of the Kitab-i-Aqdas from friends who are
unable to read it in its original form. We feel the following
extract from a letter written on behalf of the beloved
Guardian by his secretary dated December 27, 1941, addressed
to the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma
clarifies this question:
The reason it [the Kitab-i-Aqdas] is not circulated amongst
all the
27.1a Bahá'ís is, first, because the Cause is not yet
ready or sufficiently matured to put all the provisions of the
Aqdas into effect and, second, because it is a book which
requires to be supplemented by detailed explanations and to
be translated into other languages by a competent body of
experts.
27.2 The provisions of the Aqdas are gradually, according
to the progress of the Cause, being put into effect already,
both in the East and the West
As is well known, the beloved Guardian has already given in
God Passes By, pp. 24-15, a summary of the contents of
this Most Holy Book, and included the codification of all the
laws of the Kitab-i-Aqdas as one of the objectives of the Ten
Year Crusade. It is the intention of the Universal House of
Justice to achieve this objective by publishing a synopsis and
codification of these laws during the current Nine Year Plan.
Much of the Kitab-i-Aqdas has already been translated by the
beloved
27.3 Guardian and has been given to the friends in the
West, although not designated, in every case, as coming from
the Most Holy Book., We give you below a list of such
references for your guidance:
Gleanings from the Writings Sections XXXVII, LVI, LXX, of
Bahá'u'lláh =I, XCVIII, CV, CIV, CLIX, and CLXV The Promised
Day Is Come pp. 26 (1st para.), 36-37 (until the end Of 2nd
para.), 40 (2nd para.), and 84-85 (until the end of 1st para.)
27-I. In 1973, the last year of the Nine Year Plan, the
Universal House of Justice published A Synopsis and
Codification of the Kitab-i-Aqdas. The volume includes all of
the extracts in the list of references that follows. The
Bahá'í World Center published a copiously annotated English
translation of the Kitab-i-Aqdas and related texts in 1992.
+68
The Challenging Requirements pp. 16-17 of the Present Hour 2
(until the end of 1st para.) Bahá'í Administration p. 21 (1st
para.) The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh P. 134 (2nd para.) The
Bahá'í Community (1963 edition) P. 4 (2nd & 3rd paras) Star
of the West, Vol. XIV Pp. 112-14
27.4 The two reasons given by the Guardian in the extract of
the letter quoted above need further amplification:
27.4a I.
As regards the first reason, regarding the timeliness of
putting into effect all the provisions of the Kitab-i-Aqdas,
it must be borne in mind that the beloved Guardian further
stated:
... the Laws revealed by Bahá'u'lláh in the Aqdas are,
whenever
practicable and not in direct conflict with the Civil Law of
the land, absolutely binding on every believer or Bahá'í
institution whether in the East or in the West. Certain laws,
such as fasting, obligatory prayers, the consent of the
parents before marriage, avoidance of alcoholic drinks,
monogamy, should be regarded by all believers as universally
and vitally applicable at the present time. Others have been
formulated in anticipation of a state of society destined to
emerge from the chaotic conditions that prevail today. When
the Aqdas is published this matter will be further explained
and elucidated. What has not been formulated in the Aqdas, in
addition to matters of detail and of secondary importance
arising out of the application of the Laws already formulated
by Bahá'u'lláh, will have to be enacted by the Universal House
of Justice.... (Bahá'í News, October 1935)
The Guardian has further written:
It should be noted in this connection that this Administrative
Order is fundamentally different from anything that any
Prophet has previously established, inasmuch as Bahá'u'lláh
has Himself revealed its principles, established its
institutions, appointed the person to interpret His Word and
conferred the necessary authority on the body designed to
supplement and apply His legislative ordinances. Therein lies
the secret of its strength, its fundamental distinction, and
the guarantee against disintegration and schism. . . . (The
World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, p. 145)
27-2. This message of Shoghi Effendi was later published in
CF, pp. 4-38; the passage from the Kit6b-i-Aqdas appears on
pp. 18-19 (see also PB, p. 63).
+69
2. As to the second reason given by the beloved Guardian in
the extract referred to above, it must be noted that the
supplementary material to go with the publication of the laws
of the Kitab-i-Aqdas may well include the following items, all
of which require careful research and translation:
a. The Annex to the Kitab-i-Aqdas, the Questions and Answers.
(God Passes By, p. 219)
b. Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh in
"elaboration and elucidation of some of the laws He
[Bahá'u'lláh] had already laid down." (God Passes By, p. 216)
c. Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh establishing 'subsidiary ordinances
designed to supplement the provisions of His Most Holy Book."
(God Passes By, p. 216)
d. The Letters and Writings of
'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi in interpretation of the laws
and ordinances of the Kitab-i-Aqdas.
e. Other explanations and
footnotes that may be required in elucidation of the
provisions of that Book.
We hope the foregoing will clarify
the matter for the friends 27.5
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
28 Call for Pioneers 10 DECEMBER 1965
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
ANNOUNCE ALL BELIEVERS REJOICE RESPONSE Bahá'í WORLD PIONEER
CALL RAISED
28.1 RIDVAN MESSAGE REQUIRING 460 PIONEERS COURSE
CURRENT YEAR_ THUS FAR 93 SETTLED POSTS INCLUDING 15 VIRGIN
TERRITORIES ST. ANDRES ISLAND PROVIDENCIA ISLAND MARMARA
ISLAND CHAD NIGER CAYMAN ISLANDS TURKS AND CAICOS ISCHIA
GOTLAND ALASKA PENINSULA BARBUDA ST. KITTS-NEVIS INNER
HEBRIDES BORNHOLM CAPRI 35 ADDITIONAL SETTLED SAME GOALS 167
MORE ARISEN AND IN PROCESS SETTLING TOTALING 295 SOULS
RESPONDED CALL. FURTHER 200 BELIEVERS NEEDED NEXT FOUR SWIFTLY
PASSING MONTHS FILL REMAINING GOALS. FATE PIONEER PLAN HANGING
BALANCE PRAYING FERVENTLY HOLY SHRINES REQUIRED NUMBER HEROIC
SOULS PROMPTLY ARISE MEET CHALLENGE CRITICAL HOUR URGE
NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES NEEDING FUNDS EXECUTE ASSIGNMENTS APPLY
IMMEDIATELY INTERNATIONAL DEPUTIZATION FUND.
IMPERATIVE SETTLE ALL TERRITORIES ANNOUNCED RIDVAN EXCEPT
THOSE
DEPENDENT FAVORABLE CIRCUMSTANCES. VIRGIN AND RESETTLEMENT
TERRITORIES PRIORITY CONFIDENT SPIRIT DEVOTION FRIENDS
GLORIOUS FAITH ENSURE BRILLIANT VICTORY THIS PRIMARY OBJECTIVE
SO VITAL NINE YEAR PLAN.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+70
20 Observance of Holy Days 28 JANUARY 1966
To National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
29.1 From time to time questions have arisen about the
application of the law of the Kitab-i-Aqdas on the observance
of Bahá'í Holy Days. As you know, the recognition of Bahá'í
Holy Days in at least ninety-five countries of the world is
an important and highly significant objective of the Nine Year
Plan, and is directly linked with the recognition of the Faith
of Bahá'u'lláh by the civil authorities as an independent
religion enjoying its own rights and privileges.
29.2 The
attainment of this objective will be facilitated and enhanced
if the friends, motivated by their own realization of the
importance of the laws of Bahá'u'lláh, are obedient to them.
For the guidance of believers we repeat the instructions of
the beloved Guardian:
29.2a He wishes also to stress the fact
that, according to our Bahá'í laws, work is forbidden on our
nine Holy Days. Believers who have independent businesses or
shops should refrain from working on these days. Those who are
in government employ should, on religious grounds, make an
effort to be excused from work; all
believers, whoever their employers, should do likewise. If the
government, or other employers, refuse to grant them these
days off, they are not required to forfeit their employment,
but they should make every effort to have the independent
status of their Faith recognized and their right to hold their
own religious Holy Days acknowledged. (From letter written on
behalf of the Guardian to the American National Spiritual
Assembly, dated 7 July 1947-Bahá'í News, No. 198, page 3)
29.2b This distinction between institutions that are under
full or partial Bahá'í control is of a fundamental importance.
Institutions that are entirely managed by Bahá'ís are, for
reasons that are only too obvious, under the obligation of
enforcing all the laws and ordinances of the Faith, especially
those whose observance constitutes a matter of conscience.
There is no reason, no justification whatever, that they
should act otherwise . . . The point which should be always
remembered is that the issue in question is essentially a
matter of conscience, and as such is of a binding effect upon
all believers. . . . (From letter written on behalf of the
Guardian to the American National Spiritual Assembly, dated
2 October 1935-Bahá'í News, No. 97, page 9)
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In addition, steps should be taken to have Bahá'í children
excused, on religious grounds, from attending school on Bahá'í
Holy Days wherever possible. The Guardian has said:
Regarding children: at fifteen a Bahá'í is of age as far as
keeping the 29.3. laws of the Aqdas is concerned-prayer,
fasting, etc.
30.1 But children under fifteen should certainly
observe the Bahá'í Holy Days, and not go to school, if this
can be arranged, on these nine days. (From letter written on
behalf of the Guardian to the American National Spiritual
Assembly, dated 25 October 1947)
National Assemblies should give this subject their careful
consideration, 29.4 and should provide ways and means for
bringing this matter to the attention of the believers under
their jurisdiction so that, as a matter of conscience, the
mass of believers will uphold these laws and observe them.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
30 Further Thoughts about Mass Teaching 2 FEBRUARY 1966
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Engaged in Mass Teaching Work
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
Since writing to the National Spiritual Assemblies of the
world regarding the importance of teaching the masses,
we have received reports from all over the world indicating
the steady increase in the number of believers, the
concentration of the friends on the more receptive areas,
however remote these may have been, and the opening up of new
and challenging fields for expansion and service. In this
letter we wish once again to stress the importance of this
subject, share with you our thoughts regarding the supreme
need to preserve the victories you have already won and the
necessity to pursue the vital work in which you are engaged
and to which the eyes of your sister communities in East and
West are turned with admiration. It has been due to the
splendid victories in large-scale conversion that the
30.2
Faith of Bahá'u'lláh has entered a new phase in its
development and establishment throughout the world. It is
imperative, therefore, that the process of teaching the masses
be not only maintained but accelerated. The teaching committee
structure that each National Assembly may adopt to ensure best
results in the extension of its teaching work is a matter left
entirely to its discretion,
+72
but an efficient teaching structure there must be, so that the
tasks are carried out with dispatch and in accordance with the
administrative principles of our Faith. From among the
believers native to each country, competent traveling teachers
must be selected and teaching projects worked out. In the
words of our beloved Guardian, commenting upon the teaching
work in Latin America: 'strong and sustained support should
be given to the vitally needed and highly meritorious
activities started by the native . . . traveling teachers. .
. . who, as the mighty task progresses, must increasingly bear
the brunt of responsibility for the propagation of the Faith
in their homelands.",
30.3 While this vital teaching work is
progressing each National Assembly must ever bear in mind that
expansion and consolidation are inseparable processes that
must go hand in hand. The interdependence of these processes
is best elucidated in the following passage from the writings
of the beloved Guardian: "Every outward thrust into new
fields, every multiplication of Bahá'í institutions, must be
paralleled by a deeper thrust of the roots which sustain the
spiritual life of the community and ensure its sound
development. From this vital, this ever-present need attention
must, at no time, be diverted; nor must it be, under any
circumstances, neglected, or subordinated to the no less vital
and urgent task of ensuring the outer expansion of Bahá'í
administrative institutions. That this community . . . may
maintain a proper balance between these two essential aspects
of its development . . . is the ardent hope of my heart.", To
ensure that the spiritual life of the individual believer is
continuously enriched, that local communities are becoming
increasingly conscious of their collective duties, and that
the institutions of an evolving administration are operating
efficiently, is, therefore, as important as expanding into new
fields and bringing in the multitudes under the shadow of the
Cause.
30.4 These objectives can only be attained when each
National Spiritual Assembly makes proper arrangements for all
the friends to be deepened in the knowledge of the Faith. The
National Spiritual Assemblies in consultation with the Hands
of the Cause, who are the Standard-Bearers of the Nine Year
Plan, should avail themselves of the assistance of Auxiliary
Board members, who, together with the traveling teachers
selected by the Assembly or its Teaching Committees, should
be continuously encouraged to conduct deepening courses at
Teaching Institutes and to make regular visits to Local
Spiritual Assemblies. The visitors, whether Board members or
traveling teachers should meet on such occasions not only with
the Local Assembly but, of course, with the local community
members, collectively at general meetings and even, if
necessary, individually in their homes.
30-1. CF, p. 15. 30_2.
30.5 LFG, P. 76.
+73
The subjects to be discussed at such meetings with the Local
Assembly and the friends should include among others the
following points:
I. the extent of the spread and stature of the Faith today;
2. the importance of the daily obligatory prayers (at least
the short prayer);
3.the need to educate Bahá'í children in the Teachings of the
Faith and encourage them to memorize some of the prayers;
4. the stimulation of youth to participate in community life
by giving talks, etc. and having their own activities, if
possible;
5.the necessity to abide by the laws of marriage,
namely, the need to have a Bahá'í ceremony, to obtain the
consent of parents, to observe monogamy; faithfulness after
marriage; likewise the importance of abstinence from all
intoxicating drinks and drugs;
6. the local Fund and the need
for the friends to understand that the voluntary act of
contributing to the Fund is both a privilege and a spiritual
obligation. There should also be discussion of various methods
that could be followed by the friends to facilitate their
contributions and the ways open to the Local Assembly to
utilize its local Fund to serve the interests of its community
and the Cause;
7. the importance of the Nineteen Day Feast and the fact that
it should be a joyful occasion and rallying point of the
entire community;
8. the manner of election with as many workshops as required,
including teaching of simple methods of balloting for
illiterates, such as having one central home as the place for
balloting and arranging for one literate person, if only a
child, to be present at that home during the whole day, if
necessary;
9. last but not least, the all-important teaching work, both
in the locality and its neighboring centers, as well as the
need to continuously deepen the friends in the essentials of
the Faith.
30.6 The friends should be made to realize that in
teaching the Faith to others they should not only aim at
assisting the seeking soul to join the Faith, but also at
making him a teacher of the Faith and its active supporter.
All the above points should, of course, be stressed within the
framework of the importance of the Local Spiritual
Assembly, which should be encouraged to vigorously direct its
attention to these vital functions and become the very heart
of the community life of its own locality, even if its
meetings should become burdened with the problems of the
community. The local friends should understand the importance
of the law of consultation and realize that
+74
it is to the Local Spiritual Assembly that they should turn,
abide by its decisions, support its projects, cooperate
wholeheartedly with it in its task to promote the interests
of the Cause, and seek its advice and guidance in the solution
of personal problems and the adjudication of disputes, should
any arise amongst the members of the community.
30.7 As the
Universal House of Justice intends to have on file a full
record of the progress of the teaching work in large-scale
conversion areas, we request you to send us any published
material, such as forms, cards, pamphlets, pictures,
audiovisual aids, deepening booklets, etc. that you are
currently using, with adequate explanations by your Assembly
as to how they are being used, and any comments you may wish
to make about their usefulness. Your National Assembly should
also feel free to share with us your problems and needs as
well as any recommendations you may have. We are looking
forward to receiving a prompt reply to this letter, as we feel
that an early evaluation of the methods used in various fields
of teaching is vital and essential at this time.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
31 Call for Pioneers and Traveling Teachers 18 MARCH 1966
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
311 The message of the Universal House of Justice to the
Bahá'í world this Ridvan will raise a call for volunteers to
engage in traveling teaching in all parts of the world and for
whatever periods of time are possible. The purpose is to
develop a band of international teachers who will, by the very
fact of being visitors from other countries, stimulate
interest on the various homefronts which they visit.
31.2 The
Continental Pioneer Committees for Africa, the Americas, Asia,
Australasia and Europe have been given the additional function
of assisting National Assemblies to make the most efficient
use of any who may volunteer to travel and teach in countries
other than their own., The procedures to be followed are
attached to this letter. As you will note we are extending the
use of the International Deputization Fund to deserving
international teaching projects which cannot otherwise be
financed.
p.1.
31.3 See message no. 22.
+75
This advanced information is given to National Assemblies so
that they may be prepared to accept and utilize the
offers of traveling teachers as soon as they arise.
31.4 It is
requested that the subject of traveling teachers be placed on
the Agenda for consultation at the National Convention,
and that the friends be given every encouragement to respond
to this call. Since the announcement of this plan is a part
of the Ridvan message, your
31.5 Assembly should wait until
the Convention before announcing it to the friends.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
P.S. The locale of the Pioneer Committee for Africa is being
changed to
31.6 Uganda effective at Ridvan. For the time being
please contact the Committee in care of that National
Assembly.
32 Fiftieth Anniversary of the Revelation of the Tablets of
the Divine Plan 22 MARCH 1966
To the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the
United
States
JOYOUSLY HAIL FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY REVELATION FIRST OF TABLETS
DIVINE
32.1 PLAN CHARTER PROPAGATION FAITH THROUGHOUT WORLD.'
PRAYING
SHRINES OBSERVANCE OCCASION MAY BE SOURCE RENEWED ENTHUSIASM
DEDICATION FRIENDS ACCOMPLISH GOALS WIN FRESH LAURELS SHARE
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES CANADA ALASKA HAWAII.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
32-1. The Tablets of the Divine Plan are fourteen Tablets
'Abdu'l-Bahá revealed in 1916 and 1917 to the Bahá'ís of the
United States and Canada. In them He conveys His mandate for
the transmission of the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh throughout the
world.
+76
33 Passing of Jessie Revell, Member of the International
Bahá'í Council 15 APRIL 1966
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
33.1
WITH PROFOUND GRIEF ANNOUNCE PASSING JESSIE REVELL HER
TIRELESS STEADFAST DEVOTION FAITH SINCE BEFORE MASTER'S VISIT
AMERICAN CONTINENT EARNED LOVE TRUST ADMIRATION SHOGHI EFFENDI
CROWNED BY APPOINTMENT INTERNATIONAL BAHA'I COUNCIL
DISTINGUISHED BY SERVICE TREASURER BOTH APPOINTED ELECTED
COUNCILS.' URGE NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES HOLD MEMORIAL GATHERINGS
TRIBUTE UNFORGETTABLE EXEMPLARY SERVICES FAITH....
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
34 Ridvan Message 1966 RIDVAN 1966
The Bahá'ís of the World Dearly loved Friends,
34.1 The
Fiftieth Anniversary of the revelation by 'Abdu'l-Bahá, in
March and April 1916, of the first Tablets of the Divine Plan,
has witnessed the conclusion of a feat of pioneering
unparalleled in the annals of the Cause. A year ago the call
was raised for four-hundred-and-sixty-one pioneers to leave
their homes within twelve months and scatter
throughout the planet to broaden and strengthen the
foundations of the world community of Bahá'u'lláh. There is
every hope that with the exception of thirty-four posts whose
settlement is dependent upon favorable circumstances all the
pioneer goals will be filled by Ridvan or their settlement
will be assured by firm commitments. The gratitude and
admiration of the entire Bahá'í world go out to this noble
band of dedicated believers who have so gloriously responded
to the call. These pioneers, who have arisen for the specified
goals, have been reinforced by a further forty-five believers
who have
settled in the goal territories, while sixty-nine more have
left their homes to reside in twenty-six other countries
already opened to the Faith. All told, in the course of the
year, five-hundred-and-five Bahá'ís have arisen to pioneer
beyond their homelands, the largest number ever to do so in
any one year in the entire history of the Cause.
33-1. For an account of the life and services of Jessie
Revell, see BW 14:300-03.
34.2 For an explanation of the
International Bahá'í Council, see the glossary.
+77
This is a resounding victory, and in the light of the Master's
statement in the first of the Tablets of the Divine Plan,
"It has often happened that one blessed soul has become the
cause of the guidance of a nation," of wonderful portent for
the future., Its immediate results are the opening of
twenty-four new territories to the Faith, the resettlement of
four others, and the consolidation of ninety-three more. The
newly opened territories are: Chad and Niger in Africa;
Alaskan Peninsula, Barbuda, Cayman Islands, Chilo Island,
Providencia Island, Quintana Roo Territory, Saba, St. Andr6s
Island, St. Eustatius, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lawrence Island,
Tierra del Fuego, and Turks and Caicos Islands in the
Americas; Laccadive
Islands and Marmara Island in Asia; Niue Island in
Australasia; and Bornholm, Capri, Elba, Gotland, Inner
Hebrides, and Ischia in Europe.
34.3 The resettled territories are:
Corisco Island and Spanish Guinea in Africa and Maldive
Islands and Nicobar Islands in Asia.
34.4 As announced last Ridvan,
the first Convention of the Bahá'ís of Brunei will be
held this year, during the second weekend of the Ridvan
period, when the first National Spiritual Assembly of the
Bahá'ís of Brunei will be elected. Hand of the Cause Collis
Featherstone will represent the World Center of the Faith on
this historic occasion.
34.5 Formation of Nine National Assemblies
at Ridvan 1967 A further result of the confirmations which
have rewarded the tremendous teaching effort of the past
two years is the call now made by the House of justice for the
formation at Ridvan 1967 of the following nine National
Spiritual Assemblies: in Africa-the National Spiritual
Assembly of Algeria and Tunisia with its seat in Algiers; the
National Spiritual Assembly of Cameroon Republic with its seat
in Victoria and with Spanish Guinea, Fernando Po, Corisco and
Sao Tome and Principe Islands assigned to it; the National
Spiritual Assembly of Swaziland, Mozambique and Basutoland
with its seat in Mbabane; the National Spiritual Assembly of
Zambia with its seat in Lusaka. In the Americas-the National
Spiritual Assembly of the Leeward, Windward and Virgin Islands
with its seat in Charlotte Amalie. In Asia-the National
Spiritual Assembly of Cambodia with its seat in Phnom Penh;
the National Spiritual Assembly of Eastern and Southern Arabia
with its seat in Bahrayn;, the National Spiritual Assembly of
Taiwan with its seat in Taipei. In Australasia-the National
Spiritual Assembly of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands with its
seat in Tarawa. These nine new National Spiritual Assemblies
constituting, together with the new National Spiritual
Assembly of Brunei, ten additional pillars of the Universal
House of Justice, will bring to seventy-nine the number which
will take part during Ridvan 1968 in the second International
Convention for the election of that Institution.
34-1. TDP 10- 3.
+78
Tribute to the Hands of the Cause of God
34.6 This momentous year cannot be allowed to pass without
mention of the tireless and dedicated services of the beloved
Hands of the Cause, the Standard-Bearers of the Nine Year
Plan, and the able support rendered them by their Auxiliary
Boards. The special missions which they have discharged on
behalf of the Universal House of Justice, the teaching tours
they have undertaken, the conferences they have organized,
their constant work at the World Center, and above all their
never-ending encouragement of the friends and watchfulness
over the welfare of the Cause of God, have given distinction
and effective leadership to the work of the entire community.
The grievous loss which they sustained in the passing of Hand
of the Cause Leroy Ioas is shared by the whole Bahá'í world.
Threefold Purpose of the Intercontinental Conferences
34.7 The
splendid achievements in the pioneering and teaching fields,
together with the enthusiastic attention given to the
preparation of plans for the befitting celebration of the
centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's proclamation of His Message to the
kings and rulers of the world, have sealed with success the
first, and opened the way for the second phase of the Nine
Year Plan, a phase in which the Bahá'í world must prepare and
arm itself for the third phase, beginning in October 1967 when
the six intercontinental conferences will sound the 11 opening
notes" of a period of proclamation of the Cause of God
extending through the remaining years of the Nine Year Plan
to the centenary, in 1973, of the revelation of the
Kitab-i-Aqdas.2 The threefold purpose of these conferences is
to commemorate the centenary of the opening of Bahá'u'lláh's
Own proclamation of His Mission, to proclaim the Divine
Message, and to deliberate upon the tasks of the remaining
years of the Nine Year Plan. Five Tasks of the Second Phase
of the Nine Year Plan
34.8 Five specific tasks face the Bahá'í
world as it enters this second phase of the Plan: The first
is to complete the settlement of the pioneers, and the
dispatch of others wherever needed. The second is intensive
preparation for the third phase of the Plan through
development of new teaching measures and expansion of the
various Bahá'í funds at international, national and local
levels. The third is acceleration of the provision of Bahá'í
literature, particularly its translation and publication in
those languages in which, as yet, none has been published or
the supply is inadequate. 34-2. GPB, P. 212.
+79
The fourth is the acquisition of the remaining national
Haziratu'l-Quds, Temple sites, national endowments and
teaching institutes called for in the Plan, before the developing
inflation now affecting nearly the whole world adds too
greatly to the financial burden of acquiring these properties.
The fifth is development of the Panama Temple Fund. The
Universal House of Justice is initiating this Fund with a
contribution of $25,000, and now calls upon the believers and
Bahá'í communities to contribute liberally and continuously
until the funds for the completion of this historic structure
are assured. Such contributions should be sent directly to the
National Spiritual Assembly of Panama. More than fifty designs
have been received, and the House of Justice is now
considering the recommendations of the National Assembly. The
choice will be announced and the friends will be kept fully
informed of the progress of this highly significant and
inspiring project. Our Challenge-To Raise the Intensity of
Teaching Every individual follower of Bahá'u'lláh, as well as
the institutions of the
34.9 Faith, at local, national,
continental and world levels, must now meet the challenge to
raise the intensity of teaching to a pitch never before
attained, in order to realize that vast increase called for
in the Plan. For those believers living in countries where
they have freedom to teach their Faith, this challenge is the
more sharply pointed by the oppressive measures imposed on the
Faith elsewhere. In Persia the believers are denied their
elementary rights and the Faith is still largely proscribed.
In Iraq the national and one local Haziratu'l-Quds have been
seized and the activities of the friends severely restricted.
In Egypt Bahá'í properties are still confiscated and recently
several believers were imprisoned for a period, and are now
awaiting trial. New oppression has broken out in Indonesia
where the national Haziratu'l-Quds has been seized and
organized activities of the believers have been forbidden. In
yet other countries the believers are subject to restrictions
and surveillance. The friends in all cases are steadfast and
confident, looking forward to their emancipation and the
eventual triumph of the Cause. The challenge to the local and
national administrative institutions of the
34.10 Faith is to
organize and promote the teaching work through systematic
plans, involving not only the regular fireside meetings in the
homes of the believers, the public meetings, receptions and
conferences, the weekend, summer and winter schools, the youth
conferences and activities, all of which are so vigorously
upheld at present, but in addition through a constant stream
of visiting teachers to every locality. The forces released
by this latter process have been extolled by Bahá'u'lláh in
these words:
+80
34.10a The movement itself from place to place, when
undertaken for the sake of God, hath always exerted, and can
now exert, its influence in the world. In the Books of old the
station of them that have voyaged far and near in order to
guide the servants of God hath been set forth and written
down.3 while Abdu'l-Baha in the Tablets of the Divine Plan,
says:
34.10b Teachers must continually travel to all parts of the
continent, nay, rather, to all parts of the world ... 4
34.11 Such plans must be initiated and developed now, during
this period of preparation, so that they may be fully
operative by the beginning of the proclamation period from
which time they must be relentlessly pursued until the end of
the Plan.
34.12 The Universal House of Justice attaches such
importance to this principle of traveling teaching that it has
decided to develop it internationally, and now calls for
volunteers to offer their services in this field. By their
visits to lands other than their own, these friends will lend
a tremendous stimulus to the proclamation and teaching of the
Cause in all continents. It is hoped that such projects will
be self-supporting, since the International Deputization Fund
will still be needed for pioneering. However, when a proposal
which is considered to be of special benefit to the Faith
cannot be financed by the individual or the receiving National
Assemblies, the House of justice will consider a request for
assistance from the Deputization Fund. Offers, which may be
for any period, should be made to one's own National Spiritual
Assembly or to the Continental Pioneer Committees, which have
been given the additional task of assisting National
Assemblies to implement and coordinate this new enterprise.
Let those who arise recall the Master's injunction to "travel
like 'Abdu'l-Bahá ... sanctified and free from every
attachment and in the utmost severance."5
Consolidation-Coequal with Expansion 34.13
Simultaneous and coequal with this vast, ordered and
ever-growing teaching effort, the work of consolidation must
go hand in hand. In fact these two processes must be regarded
as inseparable parts of the expansion of the Faith. While the
work of teaching inevitably goes first, to pursue it alone
without consolidation would leave the community unprepared to
receive the masses who must sooner or later respond to the
life-giving message of the Cause. The guidance of our beloved
Guardian in this vital matter is, as ever, clear and
34-3. Quoted in ADJ, p. 84. 34-4. TDP 8.11. 34-5. TDP 8.11.
+81
unambiguous: "Every outward thrust into new fields, every
multiplication of Bahá'í institutions, must be paralleled by
a deeper thrust of the roots which sustain the spiritual life
of the community and ensure its sound development. From this
vital, this ever-present need attention must, at no time, be
diverted; nor must it be, under any circumstances, neglected,
or subordinated to the no less vital and urgent task of
ensuring the outer expansion of Bahá'í administrative
institutions." 6 A proper balance between these two essential
aspects of its development must, from now on, as we enter the
era of large-scale conversion, be maintained by the Bahá'í
Community. Consolidation must comprise not only the
establishment of Bahá'í administrative institutions, but a
true deepening in the fundamental verities of the Cause and
in its spiritual principles, understanding of its prime
purpose in the establishment of the unity of mankind,
instruction in its standards of behavior in all aspects of
private and public life, in the particular practice of Bahá'í
life in such things as daily prayer, education of children,
observance of the laws of Bahá'í marriage, abstention from
politics, the obligation to contribute to the Fund, the
importance of the Nineteen Day Feast and opportunity to
acquire a sound knowledge of the present-day practice of
Bahá'í administration.
The Urgent Need for an Increased Flow of Funds The onward
march of the Faith requires, and is indeed dependent upon,
34.14 a very great increase in contributions to the various
funds. All the goals assigned to the World Center of the
Faith, and particularly those dealing with the development and
beautification of the properties surrounding the Holy Shrines
and the extension of the gardens on Mount Carmel entail heavy
expenditures. The building of the two Temples called for in
the Plan will require further large SUMS,7 and the worldwide
process of teaching and consolidation now to be intensified
must be sustained by a greatly increased and uninterrupted
flow of funds. The International Deputization Fund must be
maintained and expanded, not only for further pioneering
needs, but in order to assist and develop the traveling
teacher program now called for. Since only those who have
openly proclaimed their recognition of BAYOU are permitted to
contribute financially to the establishment of His World
Order, it is apparent that more, much more is required from
the few now so privileged. Our responsibilities in this field
are very great, commensurate indeed with the bounty of being
the bearers of the Name of God in this day.
34- 6. LFG, p. 76. 34-7. The two Temples referred to are the
Houses of Worship that were to be built in Asia and Latin
America. Plans for the construction of a Temple in Asia, to
be located in Iran, had to be held in abeyance, due to
antagonism toward the Faith in that country. The Temple for
Latin America, completed in 1986, is in Panama.
+82
The Individual's Challenge
34.15 The challenge to the individual Bahá'í in every field
of service, but above all in teaching the Cause of God is
never-ending. With every fresh affliction visited upon mankind
our inescapable duty becomes more apparent, nor should we ever
forget that if we neglect this duty, "others" in the words of
Shoghi Effendi, "will be called upon to take up our task as
ministers to the crying needs of this afflicted world."' Now,
it seems, we may well be entering an era of the longed-for
expansion of our beloved Faith. Mankind's growing hunger for
spiritual truth is our opportunity. While reaching forth to
grasp it we would do well to ponder the following words of
Bahá'u'lláh:
34.15a Your behavior towards your neighbor should
be such as to manifest clearly the signs of the one true God,
for ye are the first among men to be recreated by His Spirit,
the first to adore and bow the knee before Him, the first to
circle round His throne of glory.9
34.16 As humanity plunges
deeper into that condition of which Bahá'u'lláh wrote, "to
disclose it now would not be meet and seemly," so must the
believers increasingly stand out as assured, orientated and
fundamentally happy beings, conforming to a standard which,
in direct contrast to the ignoble and amoral attitudes of
modern society, is the source of their honor, strength and
maturity.10 It is this marked contrast between the vigor,
unity and discipline of the Bahá'í community on the one hand,
and the increasing confusion, despair and feverish tempo of
a doomed society on the other, which, during the turbulent
years ahead will draw the eyes of humanity to the sanctuary
of Bahá'u'lláh's world-redeeming Faith.
34.17 The constant
progress of the Cause of God is a source of joy to us all and
a stimulus to further action. But not ordinary action. Heroic
deeds are now called for such as are performed only by
divinely sustained and detached souls. 'Abdu'l-Bahá, the
Commander of the hosts of the Lord, in one of the Tablets of
the Divine Plan, uttered this cry: "O that I could travel,
even though on foot and in the utmost poverty to these regions
and, raising the call of 'Ya Baha-El Abha' in cities,
villages, mountains, deserts and oceans, promote the Divine
teachings! This, alas, I cannot do. How intensely I deplore
it." And He concluded with this heart-shaking appeal, "Please
God, ye may achieve it.""
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
34-8. BA, p. 66. 34_9. GPB, P. 316-734-10. GWB, p. 118. 34-11.
TDP 7-8
+83
35 The Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice 27 MAY
1966
To an individual Bahá'í 1
Dear Bahá'í Friend,
35.1 ... You query the timing of the election of the Universal
House Of Justice in view of the Guardian's statement: ". . .
given favorable circumstances, under which the Bahá'ís of
Persia and of the adjoining countries under Soviet rule, may
be enabled to elect their national representatives ... the
only remaining obstacle in the way of the definite formation
of the International House of Justice will have been
removed.", On 19th April 1947 the Guardian, in a letter
written on his behalf by his secretary, replied to the inquiry
of an individual believer about this passage: "At the time he
referred to Russia there were Bahá'ís there, now the Community
has practically ceased to exist; therefore the formation of
the International House of Justice cannot depend on a Russian
National Spiritual Assembly. But other strong National
Spiritual Assemblies will have to be built up before it can
be established."
35.2 The Provisions of 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will You suggest the
possibility that, for the good of the Cause, certain
information concerning the succession to Shoghi Effendi is
being withheld from the believers. We assure you that nothing
whatsoever is being withheld from the friends for whatever
reason. There is no doubt at all that in the Will and
Testament of Abdu'l-Baha Shoghi Effendi was the authority
designated to appoint his successor, but he had no children
and all the surviving Aghsan had broken the Covenant.3 Thus,
as the Hands of the Cause stated in 1957, it is clear that
there was no one he could have appointed in accordance with
the provisions of the Will. To have made an appointment
outside the clear and specific provisions of the Master's Will
and Testament would obviously have been an impossible and
unthinkable course of action for the Guardian, the divinely
appointed upholder and defender of the Covenant. Moreover,
that same Will had provided a clear means for the confirmation
of the
___ 35-1. Passages from a letter written by the Universal
House of justice on 27 May 1966 in response to questions asked
by an individual believer on the relationship between the
Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice. 35-2. WOB,
P. 735-3. Aghsan (Branches) are the sons and male descendants
of Bahá'u'lláh. In His Will and Testament 'Abdu'l-Bahá wrote,
'should the firstborn of the Guardian of the Cause of God not
manifest in himself the truth of the words: 'The child is the
secret essence of its sire,' that is, should he not inherit
of the spiritual within him (the Guardian of the Cause of God)
and his glorious lineage not be matched with a goodly
character, then must he (the Guardian of the Cause of God)
choose another branch [Aghsan] to succeed him" (WT, p. 12).
+84
Guardian's appointment of his successor, as you are aware. The
nine Hands to be elected by the body of the Hands were to give
their assent by secret ballot to the Guardian's choice. In
1957 the entire body of the Hands, after fully investigating
the matter, announced that Shoghi Effendi had appointed no
successor and left no will. This is documented and
established. A Sign of Infallible Guidance
35.3 The fact that
Shoghi Effendi did not leave a will cannot be adduced as
evidence of his failure to obey Bahá'u'lláh -- rather should
we acknowledge that in his very silence there is a wisdom and
a sign of his infallible guidance. We should ponder deeply the
writings that we have, and seek to understand the
multitudinous significances that they contain. Do not forget
that Shoghi Effendi said two things were necessary for a
growing understanding of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh: the
passage of time and the guidance of the Universal House of
Justice. The Infallibility of the Universal House of Justice
35.4 The infallibility of the Universal House of Justice,
operating within its ordained sphere, has not been made
dependent upon the presence in its membership of the Guardian
of the Cause. Although in the realm of interpretation the
Guardian's pronouncements are always binding, in the area of
the Guardian's participation in legislation it is always the
decision of the House itself which must prevail. This is
supported by the words of the Guardian: "The interpretation
of the Guardian, functioning within his own sphere, is as
authoritative and binding as the enactments of the
International House of Justice, whose exclusive right and
prerogative is to pronounce upon and deliver the final
judgment on such laws and
ordinances as Bahá'u'lláh has not expressly revealed. Neither
can, nor will ever, infringe upon the sacred and prescribed
domain of the other. Neither will seek to curtail the specific
and undoubted
authority with which both have been divinely invested. 35.5
"Though the Guardian of the Faith has been made the permanent
head of so august a body he can never, even temporarily,
assume the right of exclusive legislation. He cannot override
the decision of the majority of his fellow members, but is
bound to insist upon a reconsideration by them of any
enactment he conscientiously believes to conflict with the
meaning and to depart from the spirit of Bahá'u'lláh's
revealed utterances."4
35.6 However, quite apart from his
function as a member and sacred head for life of the Universal
House of Justice, the Guardian, functioning within his own
sphere, had the right and duty "to define the sphere of the
legislative action" of the Universal House of JUStiCe.5 In
other words, he had the authority
___ 35-4- WOB, p. 150 35-5. WOB, P. 148.
+85
to state whether a matter was or was not already covered by
the Sacred Texts and therefore whether it was within the
authority of the Universal House of Justice to legislate upon
it. No other person, apart from the Guardian, has the right
or authority to make such definitions. The question therefore
arises: In the absence of the Guardian, is the Universal House
of Justice in danger of straying outside its proper sphere and
thus falling into error? Here we must remember three things:
First, Shoghi Effendi, during the thirty-six years of his
Guardianship, has already made innumerable such definitions,
supplementing those made by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and by Bahá'u'lláh
Himself As already announced to the friends, a careful study
of the Writings and interpretations on any subject on which
the House of Justice proposes to legislate always precedes its
act of legislation.
35.7 Second, the Universal House of Justice,
itself assured of divine guidance, is well aware of the
absence of the Guardian and will approach all matters of
legislation only when certain of its sphere of jurisdiction,
a sphere which the Guardian has confidently described as
"clearly defined." Third, we must not forget the Guardian's
written statement about these two Institutions: "Neither can,
nor will ever, infringe upon the sacred and prescribed domain
of the other.'16 As regards the need to have deductions made
from the Writings to help in the formulation of the
enactments of the House of Justice, there is the following
text from the pen of `Abdu'l-Baha:
Those matters of major importance which constitute the
foundation 35.7a of the Law of God are explicitly recorded in
the Text, but subsidiary laws are left to the House of
Justice. The wisdom of this is that the times never remain the
same, for change is a necessary quality and an essential
attribute of this world, and of time and place. Therefore the
House of Justice will take action accordingly. Let it not be
imagined that the House of Justice will take any decision
according to its own concepts and opinions. God forbid! The
Supreme House of Justice will take decisions and establish
laws through the inspiration and confirmation of the Holy
Spirit, because it is in the safekeeping and under the shelter
and protection of the Ancient Beauty, and obedience to its
decisions is a bounden and essential duty and an absolute
obligation, and there is no escape for anyone. Say, O people:
Verily the Supreme House of Justice is under the wings 35.7c
of your Lord, the Compassionate, the All-Merciful, 'that is,
under His protection, His care, and His shelter; for He has
commanded the firm believers to obey that blessed, sanctified
and all-subduing body, whose sovereignty is divinely ordained
and of the Kingdom of Heaven and whose laws are inspired and
spiritual.
35-6. WOB, P. 148, 150.
+86
35.7d Briefly, this is the wisdom of referring the laws of
society to the House of Justice. In the religion of Islam,
similarly, not every ordinance was explicitly revealed; nay
not a tenth part of a tenth part was included in the Text;
although all matters of major importance were specifically
referred to, there were undoubtedly thousands of laws which
were unspecified. These were devised by the divines of a later
age according to the laws of Islamic jurisprudence, and
individual divines made conflicting deductions from the
original revealed ordinances. All these were enforced. Today
this process of deduction is the right of the body of the
House of Justice, and the deductions and conclusions of
individual learned men have no authority unless they are
endorsed by the House of Justice. The difference is precisely
this, that from the conclusions and endorsements of the body
of the House of Justice whose members are elected by and known
to the worldwide Bahá'í community, no differences will arise;
whereas the conclusions of individual divines and scholars
would definitely lead to differences, and result in schism,
division, and dispersion. The oneness of the Word would be
destroyed, the unity of the Faith would disappear, and the
edifice of the Faith of God would be shaken.7 The Continuity
of Authority
35.8 In the Order of Bahá'u'lláh there are
certain functions which are reserved to certain institutions,
and others which are shared in common, even though they may
be more in the special province of one or the other.' For
example, although the Hands of the Cause of God have the
specific functions of protection and propagation, and are
specialized for these functions, it is also the duty of the
Universal House of Justice and the Spiritual Assemblies to
protect and teach the Cause-indeed teaching is a sacred
obligation placed upon every believer by Bahá'u'lláh.
Similarly, although after the Master authoritative
interpretation was exclusively vested in the Guardian, and
although legislation is exclusively the function of the
Universal House of Justice, these two Institutions are, in
Shoghi Effendi's words, "complementary in their aim and
purpose." "Their common, their fundamental object is to ensure
the continuity of that divinely
appointed authority which flows from the Source of our Faith,
to safeguard the unity of its followers and to maintain the
integrity and flexibility of its teachings."' Whereas the
Universal House of Justice cannot undertake any function which
exclusively appertained to the Guardian, it must continue to
pursue the object which it shares in common with the
Guardianship.
35-7. Rahiq-i-Mqkht11m 1:302-04; BN, no-426 (Sept. x966): 2.
35-8.
35.9 WOB, p. 148.
+87
The Principle of Inseparability
As you point out with many quotations, Shoghi Effendi
repeatedly stressed the inseparability of these two
institutions. Whereas he obviously envisaged their functioning
together, it cannot logically be deduced from this that one
is unable to function in the absence of the other. During the
whole thirty-six years of his Guardianship Shoghi Effendi
functioned without the Universal House of Justice. Now the
Universal House of Justice must function without the Guardian,
but the principle of inseparability remains. The Guardianship
does not lose its significance nor position in the Order of
Bahá'u'lláh merely because there is no living Guardian.
35.10 We
must guard against two extremes: one is to argue that because
there is no Guardian all that was written about the
Guardianship and its position in the Bahá'í World Order is a
dead letter and was unimportant; the other is to be so
overwhelmed by the significance of the Guardianship as to
underestimate the strength of the Covenant, or to be tempted
to compromise with the clear texts in order to find somehow,
in some way, a Guardian."
Our Part -- Fidelity, Integrity, and Faith
Service to the Cause of God requires absolute fidelity and
integrity and unwavering faith in Him. No good but only
evil can come from taking the responsibility for the future
of God's Cause into our own hands and trying to force it into
ways that we wish it to go regardless of the clear texts and
our own limitations. It ' is His Cause. He has promised that
its light will not fail. Our part is to cling tenaciously to
the revealed
Word and to the Institutions that He has created to preserve
His Covenant.
35.11 It is precisely in this connection that the
believers must recognize the importance of intellectual
honesty and humility. In past dispensations many errors arose
because the believers in God's Revelation were overanxious to
encompass the Divine Message within the framework of their
limited understanding, to define
doctrines where definition was beyond their power, to explain
mysteries which only the wisdom and experience of a later age
would make comprehensible, to argue that something was true
because it appeared desirable and necessary. Such compromises
with essential truth, such intellectual pride, we must
scrupulously avoid.
35.12 If some of the statements of the Universal
House of Justice are not detailed the friends should
realize that the cause of this is not
secretiveness, but rather the determination of this body to
refrain from interpreting the teachings and to preserve the
truth of the Guardian's statement that "Leaders of religion,
exponents of political theories, governors of human
institutions . . . need have no doubt or anxiety regarding the
nature, the origin, or validity of the institutions which the
adherents of the Faith are building up throughout the world.
For these lie embedded in the teachings themselves,
unadulterated and
+88
unobscured by unwarrantable inferences, or unauthorized
interpretations of His Word."9 Authoritative Interpretation
and Individual Understanding
35.13 A clear distinction is made
in our Faith between authoritative interpretation and the
interpretation or understanding that each individual arrives
at for himself from his study of its teachings. While the
former is confined to the Guardian, the latter, according to
the guidance given to us by the Guardian himself, should by
no means be suppressed. In fact such individual interpretation
is considered the fruit of mar's rational power and conducive
to a better understanding of the teachings, provided that no
disputes or arguments arise among the friends and the
individual himself understands and makes it clear that his
views are merely his own. Individual interpretations
continually change as one grows in comprehension of the
teachings. As Shoghi Effendi explained: "To deepen in the
Cause means to read the writings of Bahá'u'lláh and the Master
so thoroughly as to be able to give it to others in its pure
form. There are many who have some superficial idea of what
the Cause stands for. They, therefore, present it together
with all sorts of ideas that are their own. As the Cause is
still in its early days we must be most careful lest we fall
under this error and injure the Movement we so much adore.
There is no limit to the study of the Cause. The more we read
the Writings, the more truths we can find in them and the more
we will see that our previous notions were erroneous."10 So,
although individual insights can be enlightening and helpful,
they can also be misleading. The friends must therefore learn
to listen to the views of others without being overawed or
allowing their faith to be shaken, and to express their own
views without pressing them on their fellow Bahá'ís. The
Covenant -- The Cord to which All Must Cling
35.14 The Cause
of God is organic, growing and developing like a living being.
Time and again it has faced crises which have perplexed the
believers, but each time the Cause, impelled by the immutable
purpose of God, overcame the crisis and went on to greater
heights.
35.15 However great may be our inability to
understand the mystery and the implications of the passing of
Shoghi Effendi, the strong cord to which all must cling with
assurance is the Covenant. The emphatic and vigorous language
of Abdu'l-Baha's Will and Testament is at this time, as at the
time of His own passing, the safeguard of the Cause:
35-9. WOB, p. 24. 35-10. Written by the Guardian's secretary
on his behalf to an individual believer, on 25 August 1926.
+89
Unto the Most Holy Book every one must turn and all that is
not expressly recorded therein must be referred to the
Universal House of Justice. That which this body, whether
unanimously or by a majority doth carry, that is verily the
truth and the purpose of God Himself. Whose, doth deviate
therefrom is verily of them that love discord, hath shown
forth malice and turned away from the Lord of the Covenant And
again: ". . . All must seek guidance and turn unto the Center
of the Cause and the House of Justice.
35.17 And he that turneth
unto whatsoever else is indeed in grievous error.,
The Universal House of Justice: Recipient of Divine Guidance
The Universal House of Justice, which the Guardian said would
be regarded by posterity as "the last refuge of a
tottering civilization," is now, in the absence of the
Guardian, the sole infallibly guided institution in the world
to which all must turn, and on it rests the responsibility for
ensuring the unity and progress of the Cause of God in
accordance with the revealed Word. There are statements from
the Master and the Guardian indicating that the Universal
House of Justice, in addition to being the Highest Legislative
Body of the Faith, is also the body to which all must turn,
and is the "apex" of the Bahá'í Administrative Order, as well
as the 'supreme organ of the Bahá'í Commonwealth."13 The
Guardian has in his writings specified for the House of
Justice such fundamental functions as the formulation of
future worldwide teaching plans, the conduct of the
administrative affairs of the Faith, and the guidance,
organization and unification of the affairs of the Cause
throughout the world. Furthermore in God Passes By the
Guardian makes the following statement: "the Kitab-i-Aqdas ...
not only preserves for posterity the basic laws and ordinances
on which the fabric of His future World Order must rest, but
ordains, in addition to the function of interpretation which
it confers upon His Successor, the necessary institutions
through which the integrity and unity of His Faith can alone
be safeguarded."14 He has also, in "The Dispensation of
Bahá'u'lláh," written that the members of the Universal House
of Justice "and not the body of those who either directly or
indirectly elect them, have thus been made the recipients of
the divine guidance which is at once the lifeblood and
ultimate safeguard of this Revelation. 1115 As the Universal
House of Justice has already
announced, it cannot legislate to make possible the
appointment of a successor to Shoghi Effendi, nor can it
legislate to make possible the appointment of any more Hands
of the Cause, but it must do everything within its power to
ensure the performance 35-11 WT, pp. 19-20, 26. 35-12. WOB,
p. 89. 35-13. GPB, p-332; WOB, p. 735-14. GPB, Pp. 213-14.
35-15. WOB, P. 153.
+90
of all those functions which it shares with these two mighty
Institutions. It must make provision for the proper discharge
in future of the functions of protection and propagation,
which the administrative bodies share with the Guardianship
and the Hands of the Cause; it must, in the absence of the
Guardian, receive and disburse the Huququ'llah, in accordance
with the following statement of Abdu'l-Baha: "Disposition of
the Huquq, wholly or partly, is permissible, but this should
be done by permission of the authority in the Cause to whom
all must turn";,6 it must make provision in its Constitution
for the removal of any of its members who commits a sin
"injurious to the common Weal."17 Above all, it must, with
perfect faith in Bahá'u'lláh, proclaim His Cause and enforce
His Law so that the Most Great Peace shall be firmly
established in this world and the foundation of the Kingdom
of God on earth shall be accomplished.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
36 Pioneering and a Program of Consolidation 5 JUNE 1966 To
all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
36.1 The historic and dazzling accomplishment last year of a
feat in pioneering unparalleled in the annals of our Faith
should not blind us either to the need of filling the
remaining gaps which are still open, or to the ever-present
necessity of reinforcing the settled territories with a
well-conceived program of consolidation.
36.2 The tasks that
lie ahead of us in this particular field of Bahá'í activity
are as follows: I. As pointed out in the Ridvan Message, the
settlement of the minimum number of pioneers called for under
last year's goals should be completed. A recent letter has
been sent to all National Assemblies responsible for supplying
manpower, calling on them to find and dispatch as soon as
possible the pioneers to the few remaining territories for
which no offers have as yet been received and to expedite the
completion of those projects which are in process.
35-16. See CC 1:512. For information on Huqdqu'llah, see the
glossary. 35-7. WT, P. 14. See also CUHJ, p. 12.
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2. The pioneers who have already settled or are settling in
their posts, particularly in virgin and unoccupied territories
must be reminded that their movement to their goals is far
from being a short stay designed to class a particular
territory or island as opened, or label it as having received
one or more pioneers, even if, in some cases, new believers
native to the land have been enrolled. It is basically and
clearly intended to establish the Faith of God securely and
firmly in the hearts of people of the area and to ensure that
its divinely ordained institutions are understood, adopted and
operated by them. The perseverance of the pioneers in their
posts, however great the sacrifices involved, is an act of
devoted service, which, as attested by our teachings, will
have an assured reward in both worlds. The admonitions of the
Guardian on this subject are too numerous to cite and amply
demonstrate the vital nature of this clear policy.
3.The pioneers and settlers, as well as the National
Assemblies
responsible for the administration of the Faith in areas
assigned to them, should ever bear in mind that in the initial
stages of the establishment of the Faith in any territory, the
obscurity surrounding the work of the pioneer or the local
Bahá'ís is in itself a protection to the Faith. Patience, tact
and wisdom should be exercised. Public attention should not
be attracted to the Faith until such time as the believers see
the Faith touch more and more of the hearts of receptive souls
responding to its Divine Call.
4. As the numbers fixed last year for settlers in goal areas
were minimum figures, each National Assembly should carefully
assess the needs of the territories assigned to its
jurisdiction. If more pioneers are needed for any of these
territories, a full report
should at once be sent to the House of Justice, including
recommendations as to numbers required and preferred
nationalities of the prospective pioneers.
5.The practical aspects of these pioneering projects are of
vital importance. The financial responsibilities assigned
under last year's goals do not end because the pioneer has
arrived at his post. These responsibilities continue until the
objectives are permanently and securely attained.
36.3 In any case
where the National Assembly assigned the responsibility is
unable to meet its obligation, application to fill the
ascertained need should at once be made to the House of
justice for assistance from the Deputization Fund.
We assure you of our prayers at the Holy Shrines that the
friends in every land may rise above their local and
personal problems, realize the needs of the
+92
Cause of God at this juncture of its inexorable onward
development, and offer on the altar of sacrifice their measure
of service and assistance with complete self-abnegation and
wholehearted devotion to His infinitely precious Cause.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
37 Message to Youth-Three Fields of Service 10 JUNE 1966
To the Bahá'í Youth in every Land
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
37.1 In country after country the achievements of Bahá'í youth
are increasingly advancing the work of the Nine Year Plan and
arousing the admiration of their fellow believers. From the
very beginning of the Bahá'í Era, youth have played a vital
part in the promulgation of God's Revelation. The Bab Himself
was but twenty-five years old when He declared His Mission,
while many of the Letters of the Living were even younger. The
Master, as a very young man, was called upon to shoulder heavy
responsibilities in the service of His Father in Iraq and
Turkey, and His brother, the Purest Branch, yielded up his
life to God in the Most Great Prison at the age of twenty-two
that the servants of God might "be quickened, and all that
dwell on earth be united.", Shoghi Effendi was a student at
Oxford when called to the throne of his guardianship, and many
of the Knights of Bahá'u'lláh, who won imperishable fame
during the Ten Year Crusade, were young people. Let it,
therefore, never be imagined that youth must await their years
of maturity before they can render invaluable services to the
Cause of God. A Time of Decision
37.2 For any person, whether
Bahá'í or not, his youthful years are those in which he will
make many decisions which will set the course of his life. In
these years he is most likely to choose his life's work,
complete his education, begin to earn his own living, marry
and start to raise his own family. Most important of all, it
is during this period that the mind is most questing and that
the spiritual values that will guide the person's future
behavior are adopted. These factors present Bahá'í youth with
their greatest opportunities, their greatest
challenges, and their greatest tests opportunities to truly
apprehend
37-1. GPB, p. 188. See also NIA, P. 34. 37-2. At the time of
Abdu'l-Baha's passing in 1921, Shoghi Effendi was twenty-four
years old.
+93
the Teachings of their Faith and to give them to their
contemporaries, challenges to overcome the pressures of the
world and to provide leadership for their and succeeding
generations, and tests enabling them to exemplify in their
lives the high moral standards set forth in the Bahá'í
Writings. Indeed the Guardian wrote of the Bahá'í youth that
it is they "who can contribute so decisively to the virility,
the purity, and the driving force of the life of the Bahá'í
community, and upon whom must depend the future orientation
of its destiny, and the complete unfoldment of the
potentialities with which God has endowed it."3
An Opportunity Unique in Human History Those who now are in
their teens and twenties are faced with a special 37.3
challenge and can seize an opportunity that is unique in human
history. During the Ten Year Crusade-the ninth part of that
majestic process described so vividly by our beloved
Guardian-the Community of the Most Great name spread with the
speed of lightning over the major territories and islands of
the globe, increased manifoldly its manpower and resources,
saw the beginning of the entry of the peoples by troops into
the Cause of God, and completed the structure of the
Administrative Order of Bahá'u'lláh. Now, firmly established
in the world, the Cause, in the opening years of the tenth
part of that same process, is perceptibly emerging from the
obscurity that has, for the most part, shrouded it since its
inception, and is arising to challenge the outworn concepts
of a corrupt society and proclaim the solution for the
agonizing problems of a disordered humanity.
37.4 During the
lifetime of those who are now young the condition of the
world, and the place of the Bahá'í Cause in it, will change
immeasurably, for we are entering a highly critical phase in
this era of transition.
Three Fields of Service Three great fields of service lie open
before young Bahá'ís, in which they will simultaneously
be remaking the character of human society and preparing
themselves for the work that they can undertake later in their
lives.
37.5 First, the foundation of all their other
accomplishments is their study Of the teachings, the
spiritualization of their lives and the forming of their
characters in accordance with the standards of Bahá'u'lláh.
As the moral standards, of the people around us collapse and
decay, whether of the centuries-old civilizations of the East,
the more recent cultures of Christendom and Islam; or of the
rapidly changing tribal societies of the world, the Bahá'ís
must increasingly stand out as pillars of righteousness and
forbearance. The life of a Bahá'í
37-3. ADJ, p. 22. 37-4. For Shoghi Effendi's description of
the vast and "majestic" ten-part process that began at the
dawn of the Adamic Cycle and will continue into the Golden Age
of the Faith, see the entry on Ten Part Process in the
glossary.
+94
will be characterized by truthfulness and decency; he will
walk
uprightly among his fellowmen, dependent upon none save God,
yet linked by bonds of love and brotherhood with all mankind;
he will be entirely detached from the loose standards, the
decadent theories, the frenetic experimentation, the
desperation of present-day society, will look upon his
neighbors with a bright and friendly face and be a beacon
light and a haven for all those who would emulate his
strength of character and assurance of soul.
37.6 The second
field of service, which is linked intimately with the first,
is teaching the Faith, particularly to their fellow-youth,
among whom are some of the most open and seeking minds in the
world. Not yet having acquired all the responsibilities of a
family or a long-established home and job, youth can the more
easily choose where they will live and study or work. In the
world at large young people travel hither and thither seeking
amusement, education and experiences. Bahá'í youth, bearing
the incomparable treasure of the Word of God for this Day, can
harness this mobility into service for mankind and can choose
their places of residence, their areas of travel and their
types of work with the goal in mind of how they can best serve
the Faith.
37.7 The third field of service is the preparation
by youth for their later years. It is the obligation of a
Bahá'í to educate his children; likewise it is the duty of the
children to acquire knowledge of the arts and sciences and to
learn a trade or a profession whereby they, in turn, can earn
their living and support their families. This, for a Bahá'í
youth, is in itself a service to God, a service, moreover,
which can be combined with teaching the Faith and often with
pioneering. The Bahá'í community will need men and women of
many skills and qualifications; for, as it grows in size the
sphere of its activities in the life of society will increase
and diversify. Let Bahá'í youth, therefore, consider the best
ways in which they can use and develop their native abilities
for the service of mankind and the Cause of God, whether this
be as farmers, teachers, doctors, artisans, musicians or any
one of the multitude of livelihoods that are open to them.
37.8 When studying at school or university Bahá'í youth will
often find themselves in the unusual and slightly embarrassing
position of having a more profound insight into a subject than
their instructors. The Teachings of Bahá'u'lláh throw light
on so many aspects of human life and knowledge that a Bahá'í
must learn, earlier than most, to weigh the information that
is given to him rather than to accept it blindly.
37.9 A Bahá'í has
the advantage of the divine Revelation for this Age, which
shines like a searchlight on so many problems that baffle
modern thinkers; he must therefore develop the ability to
learn everything from those around him, showing proper
humility before his teachers, but always relating what he
hears to the Bahá'í teachings, for they will enable him to
sort out the gold from the dross of human error.
+95
Bahá'í Consultation
Tracing New Paths of Human Corporate Action
Paralleling the growth of his inner life through prayer,
meditation, service and study of the teachings, Bahá'í
youth have the opportunity to learn in practice the very
functioning of the Order of Bahá'u'lláh. Through taking part
in conferences and summer schools as well as Nineteen Day
Feasts, and in service on committees, they can develop the
wonderful skill of Bahá'í consultation, thus tracing new paths
of human corporate action.
Consultation is no easy skill to learn, requiring as it does
the subjugation of all egotism and unruly passions, the
cultivation of frankness and freedom of thought as well as
courtesy, openness of mind and wholehearted acquiescence in
a majority decision. In this field Bahá'í youth may
demonstrate the efficiency, the vigor, the access of unity
which arise from true consultation and, by contrast,
demonstrate the futility of partisanship, lobbying, debate,
secret diplomacy and unilateral action which characterize
modern affairs. Youth also take part in the life of the Bahá'í
community as a whole and promote a society in which all
generations-elderly, middle-aged, youth, children-are fully
integrated and make up an organic whole. By refusing to carry
over the antagonisms and mistrust between the generations
which perplex and bedevil modern society they will again
demonstrate the heating and life-giving nature of their
religion. The Nine Year Plan has just entered its third year.
The youth have
already 37m played a vital part in winning its goals. We now
call upon them, with great love and highest hopes and the
assurance of our fervent prayers, to consider, individually
and in consultation,
wherever they live and whatever their circumstances, those
steps which they should take now to deepen themselves in their
knowledge of the divine message, to develop their characters
after the pattern of the Master, to acquire those skills,
trades and professions in which they can best serve God and
man, to intensify their service to the Cause of Bahá'u'lláh
and to radiate its message to the seekers among their
contemporaries.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+96
38 Formation of Three More National Spiritual Assemblies at
Ridvan 1967 1 SEPTEMBER 1966
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
38.1 JOYFULLY ANNOUNCE FORMATION AT RIDVAN 1967 ADDITIONAL NEW
NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES BELIZE SEAT BELIZE, LAOS SEAT VIENTIANE,
SIKKIM SEAT GANGTOK, CALLING UPON NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES
GUATEMALA, THAILAND, INDIA RESPECTIVELY CALL FIRST CONVENTIONS
ELECTION NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES. SIKKIM ASSEMBLY SUPPLEMENTARY
ACHIEVEMENT NINE YEAR PLAN. CHANGED SITUATION CAMBODIA
REQUIRES POSTPONEMENT FORMATION NATIONAL ASSEMBLY THAT
COUNTRY. ADDITION ABOVE NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES RAISES TOTAL
THROUGHOUT THE WORLD TO EIGHTY-ONE WHOSE MEMBERS WILL
PARTICIPATE SECOND INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION. OFFERING PRAYERS
OF GRATITUDE BAHA'U'LLAH SUPPLICATING DIVINE CONFIRMATIONS
EXPANSION CONSOLIDATION THESE TERRITORIES ASSURING SOLID
FOUNDATION FUTURE PILLARS UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE.,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
39 Incorporation of the National Spiritual Assembly of Italy
22 DECEMBER 1966
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
39.1 JOYFULLY ANNOUNCE INCORPORATION ITALIAN NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE PROCESS RECOGNITION FAITH HEART
CHRISTENDOM.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
38-1. The pillars referred to are the National Spiritual
Assemblies.
+97
40 Development of the Bahá'í World Center and the Needs of the
Bahá'í International Fund 7 MARCH 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Beloved Friends, The time has now come in the progress of the
Nine Year Plan when the
40.1 Bahá'í world must devote a
greater effort towards the development of the Faith at its
World Center. Nearly all the accessible unsettled territories
of the Plan have now been Settled, bases have been established
throughout the world for the future expansion of the Faith;
a program of progressive consolidation is being pursued
hand-in-hand with continued expansion; plans for the
construction of the Panama Temple are well advanced; the
Haziratu'l-Quds, Temple sites and endowments called for in the
Plan are being steadily acquired; by the end of the next
Ridvan period 81 out of the i08 National Spiritual Assemblies
called for by 1973 will have been established; and the opening
of the period of the proclamation of the Faith is fast
approaching.
40.3 Since the Universal House of Justice came into
being in 1963, its primary concern at the World Center
of the Faith has been with the basic, minimum essentials of
undertaking repairs to the Holy Places; establishing its
administrative offices; reorganizing the accommodation of
pilgrims; gathering its staff, developing a suitable housing
program for the Hands of the Cause and their families, the
members of the House of justice and their families, and all
other believers serving at the World Center; formulating plans
for the expansion of the Gardens and taking the first steps
in their initiation; collating the Sacred Texts and the
letters of Shoghi Effendi and indexing them; and fostering
relations with the Government of the State of Israel and with
the United Nations. The increased burden which these essential
steps have imposed upon the
40.4 International Fund we have
endeavored to keep at a minimum so that, in the early stages
of the Plan, the maximum resources could be utilized in the
teaching work throughout the world.
40.5 However, we must now
embark upon certain major undertakings vital to the
future progress of the Cause. Extensive beautification of the
sacred endowments surrounding the Holy Shrines in Bahji and
Haifa, as well as at the site of the future Mashriqu'l-Adhkar
on Mount Carmel must be undertaken, both for its own sake and
for the protection of these lands which are situated within
the boundaries of rapidly expanding cities; the work of
classifying and codifying the Holy Texts must be urgently
prosecuted; the arrangements for pilgrimage
+98
may have to be greatly expanded to provide for the
ever-increasing number of applications from East and West; the
Intercontinental Conferences and the International Convention
must be held and paid for; and the auxiliary institutions of
the Universal House of Justice must begin to unfold so that
the ever-growing and increasingly complex work of the World
Center of the Faith may continue to be efficiently discharged.
Moreover, the vital assistance given by the International Fund
to the work of the Hands of the Cause and National Spiritual
Assemblies must be maintained.
40.6 The
minimum budget requirements of the International Fund have
nearly doubled since 1963, and if in addition we are to be
enabled to undertake these developments, a much greater flow
of funds will be needed than is now available.
40.7 We call
upon every National Spiritual Assembly to consider now the
amount that it can allocate as a contribution to the
International Fund in its budget for the coming year. In some
cases this may mean that contributions made hitherto will be
doubled, trebled, or even more greatly increased. Please write
as soon as your decision has been made, and not later than
21st April, telling us the estimated amount of your
allocation.
40.8 This is a vitally important matter, and we
shall pray in the Holy Shrines that the friends throughout the
world will respond wholeheartedly to this call.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
41 Commemoration of the Revelation of the Suriy-i-Muluk 17
MARCH 1967 To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
41.1 In the 1965 Ridvan Message from the Universal House of
Justice we announced that in September 1967, on the Feast of
Mashiyyat, a few appointed representatives of the Bahá'í world
would visit the site of the House of Bahá'u'lláh in Adrianople
where the Suriy-i-Muluk was revealed. We have decided that the
six Hands of the Cause of God who will represent the Universal
House of Justice at the Intercontinental Conferences in
October are the ones to make this visit. Immediately following
this historic act they will proceed to their respective
Conferences.,
41-1.
42.1 The Hands of the Cause of God Amatu'l-Baha Ruhiyyih
Khanum, Ugo Giachery, Tarazu'llah Samandari, Ali-Akbar
Furutan, Paul Haney, and Abul-Qasim Faizi visited Adrianople
+99
For the protection of the Faith it is essential that no one,
except the Hands, 41.2 travel to Turkey on this occasion.
National Spiritual Assemblies are requested to make this
announcement at 41.3 the National Convention this year, and
to repeat it in their newsletters and at other times and
places as may be appropriate.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
42 Ridvan Message 1967 Ridvan 1967
The Bahá'ís of the World
Dearly loved Friends, At the conclusion of the third year of
the Nine Year Plan we acknowledge with thankful hearts
the evidences of Divine favor with which Bahá'u'lláh
unfailingly sustains and confirms the dedicated efforts of His
servants everywhere, and we unhesitatingly affirm our
confidence that the community of the Most Great Name can and
will, by its determination and sacrificial efforts, achieve
complete victory.
Worldwide Achievements Last year the call was raised for the
formation, in 1967, of eleven new
42.2 National Spiritual
Assemblies. All will be elected during the Ridvan period. We
welcome with great joy the National Spiritual Assemblies of
the Bahá'ís of Algeria and Tunisia with its seat in Algiers;
Cameroon Republic with its seat in Victoria; Swaziland,
Lesotho and Mozambique with its seat in Mbabane; Zambia with
its seat in Lusaka; Belize with its seat in Belize; the
Leeward, Windward and Virgin Islands with its seat in
Charlotte Amalie; Eastern and Southern Arabia with its seat
in Bahrayn; Laos with its seat in Vientiane; Sikkim with its
seat in Gangtok; Taiwan with its seat in Taipei; the Gilbert
and Ellice Islands with its seat in Tarawa. The World Center
of the Faith will be represented at each National Convention
by a Hand of the Cause of God, who will present a message from
the Universal House of Justice welcoming the new national
community and assigning it its share of the goals of the Nine
Year Plan.
on 27 September 1967 (the Feast of Will) to mark Bahá'u'lláh's
revelation of His Tablet to the Kings (Suriy-i-Muluk),
referred to by Shoghi Effendi as "the most momentous Tablet
revealed by Bahá'u'lláh" (GPB, P. 171). See PB, pp. 7-12,
47-54, and 102-03, for passages from the Suriy-i-Muluk that
have been translated into
English.
+100
42.3 At this Ridvan eighty-one of the i08 National Spiritual
Assemblies, and more than six thousand of the 13,737 Local
Spiritual Assemblies called for by 1973 will have been
established; of a required 54,102. localities where Bahá'ís
reside, 28,27 are reported; fifteen of the sixty-five National
Incorporations called for have been achieved; seventeen of
fifty-two National Haziratu'l-Quds, seven of sixty-two Temple
sites, thirteen of fifty-four National Endowments, fourteen
of thirty-two Teaching Institutes, have been acquired; of the
973 Local Incorporations called for in the Plan, 123 have been
completed; Local Haziratu'l-Quds acquired are, twenty-four in
India, seventeen in Kenya, nine in Uganda, two in South
Africa, two in Turkey and a number in Congo (Kinshasa), while
land for eight others has been acquired in Kenya, for four in
Cameroon, for two in Pakistan and for one in Mauritius; in
eight countries Local Endowments supplementary to those called
for in the Plan have been acquired.
42.4 Iceland, Korea,
Liberia, Luxembourg and Rhodesia now recognize the Bahá'í
Marriage Certificate; the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Hawaii,
Iceland, Italy, Kenya and Luxembourg recognize Bahá'í Holy
Days. A Summer School has been established in Liberia, and
one, beyond the requirements of the Plan, in Canada, while
land for others has been acquired in Argentina, Ethiopia and
Samoa. Twenty-five new languages have been added to the list
of those in which Bahá'í literature is available, bringing the
total number to 397. The number of territories now opened to
the Faith has reached 311, including the recently settled
virgin areas of Chil Archipelago, Bonaire, Phoenix Islands and
St. Martin, and two territories in addition to those called
for in the Plan, namely Melville Island in Australasia and
Montserrat in the Windward Islands.
42.5 After protracted
frustration the National Spiritual Assembly of Persia has
finally gained possession of the historic fortress of Chihriq,
that bleak and lonely citadel which was the last earthly
residence of the blessed Bab, and from which He was led forth
to His martyrdom in Tabriz., Realization of the long-sought
recognition of the Faith in Italy is a wonderful victory,
resulting not only in the incorporation of the National
Spiritual Assembly, but also of all Local Spiritual Assemblies
in Italy and the ability to establish that National Spiritual
Assembly's Publishing Trust. In Iceland the Faith has been
recognized as one of the island's religions. This provides not
only for incorporation of the Local Spiritual Assembly of
Reykjavik but authorizes the chairman of that Assembly to
perform Bahá'í marriages and Bahá'í burials, exempts the Faith
from certain taxes, permits the observance of Bahá'í Holy Days
and paves the
42-1. Chihriq, designated the "Grievous Mountain' by the Bab,
is the remote fortress to which He was transferred on to April
1848. Tabriz is the town in northwestern Iran where the Bab
was martyred 9 July 1850.
+101
way for incorporation of the National Spiritual Assembly of
that country when it will be formed. The full number of Local
Spiritual Assemblies, Groups and Localities called for in the
Plan has been established in fifty-three territories and
islands under the direction of twenty-six National Spiritual
Assemblies; five territories have formed the required number
of Local Spiritual
Assemblies and seven have reached the specified number of
Localities. Since the call was raised a year ago,
international traveling-teaching, ranging over the five
continents and affecting nearly all national communities, has
been undertaken.
Seventy-eight projects have been completed in Europe,
forty-three in America, twenty-seven in Asia, twenty-five in
Australasia which, with those in Africa brings the total
number to about two hundred. It is greatly hoped that this
stimulating activity, so dear to the beloved Master's heart,
will be constantly expanded.
42.7 Sustaining all these visible
achievements is a constant activity throughout the world
of teaching and administration-a perpetual movement, like the
ceaseless surge of the sea, within the Bahá'í community, which
is the real cause of its growth. National and Local Spiritual
Assemblies facing difficult problems, devising new plans,
shouldering responsibility for a community growing in numbers
and consciousness, Committees striving to accomplish
objectives, Bahá'í Youth in eager and dedicated activity,
individual Bahá'ís and families making efforts for the Cause,
to give the Message, or hold a fireside, these constant
services attract the confirmation of Bahá'u'lláh, and the more
they are supported by prayers and intense dedication and the
more extensive they become, the more they release into the
world a spiritual charge which no force on earth can resist,
and which must eventually bring about the complete triumph of
the Cause.
42.8 It is this organic vitality of the Faith, so
readily felt at the World Center, whose exhilaration we wish
every believer to share.
Work at the World Center At the World Center of the Faith
codification of the Kitab-i-Aqdas and collation of other
important Texts has continued. Work on the highly important
task of formulating the Constitution of the Universal House
of Justice is well advanced. Development and extension of the
gardens surrounding the sacred Shrines in both Haifa and Bahji
is continuing. Publication of The Bahá'í World, Volume 13 has
been undertaken; this book covers nine years, from 1954 to
1963, almost the entire period of the Ten Year Crusade, and
includes a comprehensive article on the beloved Guardian by
Amatu'l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum. A planned development of
relationships with the United Nations is being actively
pursued. An important supplementary achievement is the
establishment of an International Bahá'í Audio-Visual Center
whose function is to provide teaching and deepening aids to
all National Spiritual Assemblies, as well as to store and
index audiovisual records.
+102
Service of the Hands of the Cause of God
42.9 Throughout the
year the services of the beloved Hands of the Cause have shone
with an unfailing light. Their constant encouragement of
National Spiritual Assemblies and of believers everywhere to
pursue the goals of the Plan and to obtain a deeper
understanding of the true meaning of Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation
is contributing in no small measure to the progress of that
Plan and must exercise a lasting effect on the development of
the Bahá'í community. These few gallant and dedicated
believers, whose place in history is forever assured by virtue
of their appointment to their high office, are indeed a
precious legacy left to us by our beloved Guardian, and as the
years go by there is increasingly added to the honor and
respect which is their due by reason of their exalted rank,
the love and admiration of the friends evoked by their
constant services.
42.10 In response to special needs two
changes have been made in the disposition of the Hands during
the year, Hand of the Cause John Robarts returning to the
Western Hemisphere with a special assignment to his native
Canada, and Hand of the Cause William Sears returning to
Africa. In addition we are delighted to announce that Hand of
the Cause Tarazu'llah Samandari, whose eyes were blessed by
beholding Bahá'u'lláh, will represent the Universal House of
Justice at the Intercontinental Conference in Chicago,
replacing the late Hand of the Cause Leroy Ioas. The Panama
Temple
42.11 In the international sphere the great project of
raising the Panama Temple has begun with choice of a design
submitted by Mr. Peter Tillotson, an English architect. Mr.
Robert McLaughlin, sometime member of the National Spiritual
Assembly of the United States and Dean Emeritus of the School
of Architecture of Princeton University, who served as a
member of the Technical Advisory Board for the construction
of the interior of the Mother Temple of the West in Wilmette,
has been appointed Architectural Consultant to the Universal
House of Justice for the building of the Temple. He and Mr.
Tillotson have visited the site together, and are working in
close cooperation. Pictures and drawings of the new Temple
will be published shortly, and the friends will be kept
informed of the progress of construction of this House of
Worship 'situated between the two great oceans," a location
which 'Abdu'l-Bahá indicated would become very important in
the future and whence the Teachings, once established, "will
unite the East and the West, the North and the South."2
42-2. TDP 14.8.
42.12 For the message announcing the laying of the
foundation stone of the Panama Temple, see letter no. 50; for
the message sent on the occasion of its dedication, see letter
no. i08.
+103
Pioneer Goals The brilliant pioneering feat of the second year
of the Plan is beginning to reveal its beneficent
effects, but pioneers are still urgently needed and will
continue to be needed in all parts of the world for
consolidation and development of the Faith in the newly won
territories as well as for those resettled during the opening
years of the Plan. The immediate requirement is for 209
pioneers to settle in eighty-seven territories named on the
attached list, and the call is now raised for the speedy
achievement of this task.3 Service in this highly meritorious
field is open to every believer and all those who are moved
to respond to this particular call are asked to consult the
list of territories and to make their offers to their own
National Spiritual Assembly. Full details of the requirements
in each territory have been sent to the National Spiritual
Assemblies concerned and to the Pioneer Committees.
The Homefronts-Solid Bases for Expansion The constant need for
pioneers no less than the approaching worldwide 42.13
proclamation render it imperative to pay special attention,
in every continent, to the homefronts, for they are the
sources of manpower and of administrative experience, the
solid bases from which all expansion begins, both at home and
abroad. The largest increases in numbers of Local Spiritual
Assemblies, of Groups, and of believers, are called for on the
homefronts, and these tasks must be vigorously pursued. Some
National Spiritual Assemblies have phased these important
goals, assigning a specified number for achievement each year,
thus ensuring a planned and flexible approach to the total
requirements.
42.14 Such a systematic and determined prosecution of
the homefront goals is highly recommended.
The Fund-Our Honor and Challenge The pressing and ever-growing
needs of the Bahá'í Fund are called to the attention of
all believers. There are great projects already under way or
lying ahead which require very large amounts of money for
their realization. The Panama Temple-the first only of the two
called for in the Nine Year Plan the beautification and
development of the World Center itself, involving a necessary
and inevitable increase in facilities to serve the growing
needs of the Faith; support of the vital teaching program in
many parts of the world; establishment and development of new
National Spiritual Assemblies-all these urgently require the
support of the friends everywhere through sustained and
sacrificial contributions. As inflation spreads around the
world, the consequent increase in the cost of living is
balanced, at least in the more affluent countries, by a
corresponding increase in personal incomes. The expenses of
the Bahá'í Fund are inevitably and seriously affected by this
inflationary condition
42-3. The list is too lengthy to include.
+104
which can only be relieved by contributions, both of larger
amounts and from a larger number of contributors. The House
of justice believes that the financial needs of the Cause
should be met by universal participation in giving and urges
National and Local Spiritual Assemblies to pursue this goal
with vigor and imagination, recalling to the friends the plea
of the beloved Guardian to every believer "unhesitatingly, to
place, each according to his circumstances, his share on the
altar of Bahá'í sacrifice."4 The fact that only we, the
Bahá'ís, can contribute financially to the Cause is both our
honor and our challenge. Centenary of Bahá'u'lláh Summons to
the Kings
42.15 As we approach the third phase of the Nine
Year Plan there opens before us a prospect of enthralling
opportunities such as to thrill the heart of every ardent
follower of Bahá'u'lláh. For more than a century we have
toiled to teach the Cause; heroic sacrifices, dedicated
services, prodigious efforts have been made in order to
establish the outposts of the Faith in the chief countries,
territories and islands of the earth and to raise the
framework of the Administrative Order around the planet. But
the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh remains, as yet, unknown to the
generality of men. Now at last, at long last, the worldwide
community of the Most Great Name is called upon to launch, on
a global scale and to every stratum of human society, an
enduring and intensive proclamation of the healing message
that the Promised One has come and that the unity and
well-being of the human race is the purpose of His Revelation.
This long-to-be-sustained campaign, commencing next October
in commemoration of the centenary of the sounding of the
"opening notes" of Bahá'u'lláh's own proclamation,5 and
gathering momentum throughout the remainder of the Nine Year
Plan, may well become the spearhead of other plans to be
launched continually until humanity has recognized and
gratefully acclaimed its Redeemer and its Lord.
42.16 A
hundred years ago Bahá'u'lláh Himself addressed the kings,
rulers, religious leaders and peoples of the world. The
Universal House of Justice feels it its bounden duty to bring
that Message to the attention of the world's leaders today.
It is therefore presenting to them, in the form of a book, the
essence of Bahá'u'lláh's announcement. Entitled The
Proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh, a special edition will be
presented to Heads of State during the opening of the
proclamation period and a general edition will be available
to the friends in English, French, German, Italian and
Spanish. '
42.17 The Hands of the Cause of God, Amatu'l-Baha
Ruhiyyih Khanum, Ugo Giachery, Tarazu'llah Samandari,
'Ali-Akbar Furutan, Paul Haney, Abu'l-Qasim Faizi, who will
represent the Universal House of Justice at the Inter 42-4.
CF, P. 131. 42-5- GPB, P. M.
+105
continental Conferences in October to be held in Panama,
Sydney, Chicago, Kampala, Frankfurt and New Delhi
respectively, will gather at the World Center in September,
a few days before the Feast of Mashiyyat. The members of the
House of Justice will join these Hands in supplication at the
Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh in Bahji and will meet with them for
consultation in the Mansion. From that Holy Spot these Hands
of the Cause will make a special pilgrimage on behalf of the
entire Bahá'í world to Adrianople where the Suriy-Muluk was
revealed.6 One hundred years after the historic event which
it is their purpose to commemorate, they will, on September
27th gather in the House of Bahá'u'lláh for prayer and
meditation, while the members of the Universal House of
Justice will, in the Most Holy Shrine at Bahji, share in the
same commemoration and pray for the success of the Conferences
and of the Proclamation program. The entire Bahá'í world will,
between the Conferences and Ridvan 1968, commemorate the
centenary of the opening of that wonderful period in human
history when the clouds of Divine bounty showered in lavish
profusion their treasures upon men and the portals of the
Kingdom were thrown open, disclosing to all who had eyes to
see, a new heaven and a new earth, and the new Jerusalem
coming down from God.
42.18 Immediately after the Feast of Mashiyyat
the Hands of the Cause will travel from Adrianople to
their Conferences, each bearing the precious trust of a
photograph of the Blessed Beauty, which it will be the
privilege of those attending the Conferences to view. These
distinguished Hands will, on their own behalf, each address
the Conference which they attend, and will bear a message to
each Conference from the Universal House of Justice whom they
represent.
42.19 These six Conferences, convened to commemorate the
opening of Bahá'u'lláh's own Proclamation and to
inaugurate a period of proclamation of His message by the
entire company of His followers, will doubtless demonstrate
yet again the spirit of joy which pervades such gatherings of
the friends and will reinforce them in their determination to
seize whatever means and opportunities they may find to raise
the Divine call. Honored by the presence of Hands of the
Cause, these Conferences, focal points of the love and prayers
42-6. The occasion marked the centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's
revelation of His Suriy-i-Muluk (Tablet to the Kings), which
Shoghi Effendi describes as "the most momentous Tablet
revealed by Bahá'u'lláh ... in which He, for the first time,
directs His words collectively to the entire company of the
monarchs of East and West, and in which the Sultan of Turkey,
and his ministers, the kings of Christendom, the French and
Persian Ambassadors accredited to the Sublime Porte, the
Muslim ecclesiastical leaders in Constantinople, its wise men
and inhabitants, the people of Persia and the philosophers of
the world are separately addressed . . . ... (GPB, pp. IT-72).
For a brief account of the proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh to the
kings and rulers of the world, see BW 14:195-204. For a full
and detailed account and for a depiction of the fate of the
recipients in the wake of their neglect of Bahá'u'lláh's
summons, see Shoghi Effendi, Promised Day Is Come.
+106
of the friends everywhere, magnets to attract the spiritual
powers which alone can confirm their work, will, it is
confidently hoped, be potent sources of unity spiritual
enthusiasm and realistic planning. National Spiritual
Assemblies are called upon to ensure that they are represented
at the Conference held in their continent so that they may
share their plans for proclamation with other National
Spiritual Assemblies as well as discuss with them the
remaining goals of the Nine Year Plan.
42.20 To all those
friends in so many countries, suffering in varying degrees
from restrictions and oppression which will either prevent
altogether, or greatly inhibit their public commemoration and
subsequent proclamation programs, we send a special message
of love and assurance. To them we convey the love and
admiration of their fellow believers, who, in gratitude for
their greater freedom, are determined to blaze abroad such a
proclamation of the Divine Message as may well pave the way
for the eventual emancipation of the entire body of the Faith.
Proclamation, Expansion, and Consolidation-interrelated
Processes
42.21 Worldwide proclamation, the unknown sea on
which we must soon sail, will add another dimension to our
work, a dimension which will, as it develops, complement and
reinforce the twin processes of expansion and consolidation.
This pattern of teaching, emerging so soon after the
completion of the framework of the Administrative Order, may
well be the means of advancing the vital work of consolidation
and of rendering more effective the teaching wisdom which has
been gained in a hundred years, and more particularly since
the beloved Guardian called us to systematic and planned
activity. Therefore, in those countries where we are free to
publicize our religion, this activity must become part of our
regular work, included in budgets, assigned to National and
Local Committees for study and implementation and above all
for coordination with the programs operating to achieve the
goals of the Nine Year Plan. Every effort of proclamation must
be sustained by teaching, particularly locally where public
announcements should be related to such efforts. This
coordination is essential, for nothing will be more
disheartening than for thousands to hear of the Faith and have
nowhere to turn for further information. The Nature of
Deepening
42.22 The beloved Guardian wrote, "To strive to
obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of
Bahá'u'lláh's stupendous Revelation must, it is my unalterable
conviction, remain the first obligation and the object of the
constant endeavor of each one of its loyal adherents," a
statement which places the obligation of deepening in the
Cause firmly on every believer.7 It is therefore ___ 42-7-
WOB, p.100.
+107
upon the nature of deepening, rather than upon the
desirability
of pursuing it, that we wish to comment. A detailed and exact
knowledge of the present structure of Bahá'í Administration
- 42-23 or of the By-laws of National and Local Spiritual
Assemblies, or of the many and varied applications of Bahá'í
law under the diverse conditions prevailing around the world,
while valuable in itself, cannot be regarded as the sort of
knowledge primarily intended by deepening. Rather is suggested
a clearer apprehension of the purpose of God for man, and
particularly of His immediate purpose as revealed and directed
by Bahá'u'lláh, a purpose as far removed from current concepts
of human well-being and happiness as is possible. We should
constantly be on our guard lest the glitter and tinsel of an
affluent society should lead us to think that such superficial
adjustments to the modern world as are envisioned by
humanitarian movements or are publicly proclaimed as the
policy of enlightened statesmanship-such as an extension to
all members of the human race of the benefits of a high
standard of living, of education, medical care, technical
knowledge-will of themselves fulfill the glorious mission of
Bahá'u'lláh. Far otherwise. These are the things which shall
be added unto us once we seek the Kingdom of God, and are not
themselves the objectives for which the Bab gave His life,
Bahá'u'lláh endured such sufferings as none before Him had
ever endured, the Master and after Him the Guardian bore their
trials and afflictions with such superhuman fortitude. Far
deeper and more fundamental was their
vision, penetrating to the very purpose of human life. We
cannot do better, in this respect, than call to the attention
of the friends certain themes pursued by Shoghi Effendi in his
trenchant statement "The Goal of a New World Order." "The
principle of the Oneness of Mankind" he writes, "implies an
organic change in the structure of present-day society, a
change such as the world has not yet experienced." Referring
to the "epoch-making changes that constitute the greatest
landmarks in the history of human civilization," he states
that ". . . they cannot but appear, when viewed in their
proper perspective, except as subsidiary adjustments
precluding that transformation of unparalleled majesty and
scope which humanity is in this age bound to undergo."' In a
later document he refers to the civilization to be established
by Bahá'u'lláh as one "with a fullness of life such as the
world has never seen nor can as yet conceive."9 Dearly loved
Friends, this is the theme we must pursue in our efforts to
42.24 deepen in the Cause. What is Bahá'u'lláh's purpose for
the human race? For what ends did He submit to the appalling
cruelties and indignities heaped upon Him? What does He mean
by "a new race of men'? What are the profound changes which
He will bring about? The answers are to be found in
___ 42-8. WOB, pp. 42-43, 45, 46. 42-9. PDIC, 302
+108
the Sacred Writings of our Faith and in their interpretation
by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and our beloved Guardian. Let the friends
immerse
themselves in this ocean, let them organize regular study
classes for its constant consideration, and as reinforcement
to their effort, let them remember conscientiously the
requirements of daily prayer and reading of the Word of God
enjoined upon all Bahá'ís by Bahá'u'lláh.
42.25 Such dedicated
striving on the part of all the friends to deepen in the Cause
becomes imperative with the approach of the proclamation
program. As this becomes effective more and more attention
will be directed to the claims of Bahá'u'lláh and opposition
must be expected. "HOW GREAT, HOW VERY GREAT IS THE CAUSE!"
wrote the Master; "HOW VERY FIERCE THE ONSLAUGHT OF ALL THE
PEOPLES AND KINDREDS OF THE EARTH! ERELONG SHALL THE CLAMOR
OF THE MULTITUDE THROUGHOUT AFRICA, THROUGHOUT AMERICA, THE
CRY OF THE EUROPEAN AND OF THE TURK, THE GROANING OF INDIA AND
CHINA BE HEARD FROM FAR AND NEAR. ONE AND ALL THEY SHALL ARISE
WITH ALL THEIR POWER TO RESIST HIS CAUSE. THEN SHALL THE
KNIGHTS OF THE LORD, ASSISTED BY HIS GRACE FROM ON HIGH,
STRENGTHENED BY FAITH, AIDED BY THE POWER OF UNDERSTANDING AND
REINFORCED BY THE LEGIONS OF THE COVENANT, ARISE AND MAKE
MANIFEST THE TRUTH OF THE VERSE: 'BEHOLD THE CONFUSION THAT
HATH BEFALLEN THE TRIBES OF THE DEFEATED -10
42.26 Mindful of
the countless expressions of Divine love found in our
Scriptures and aware of the extraordinary nature of the crisis
facing humanity, we call the friends to a new realization of
the very great things which are expected from us in this Day.
We recall that the Blessed Beauty, Bahá'u'lláh, as well as His
"Best-Beloved", before Him and Abdu'l-Baha after Him bore
Their sufferings in this world in order that mankind might be
freed from material fetters and "attain unto true liberty,"
"Might prosper and flourish," "attain unto abiding joy, and
be filled with gladness,", and we pray that the endeavors of
the friends may be the means by which this glory and felicity
will speedily come to pass.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
___ 42-10. WOB, p. 17. 42-11. The Bab. 42-12.
43.1 GWB, pp. 99,
100, 99.
+109
43 Release of a Compilation on Teaching the Masses 11 MAY 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
We have recently made a compilation from the writings of the
Guardian and from letters written on his behalf regarding
the importance and nature of the teaching work among the
masses. Attached is a copy of this compilation, which we
sincerely recommend to you for your earnest study., The
extracts have been arranged chronologically. It is our hope
and belief that this compilation will guide and assist you in
43.2 better appreciating the manner of the presentation of the
teachings of the Faith; the attitude that must govern those
responsible for enrolling new believers; the need to educate
the newly enrolled Bahá'ís, to deepen them in the teachings
and to wean them gradually away from their old allegiances;
the necessity of keeping a proper balance between expansion
and consolidation; the significance of the participation of
the native believers of each country in the teaching work and
in the administration of the affairs of the community; the
formulation of budgets within the financial capabilities of
the community; the importance of fostering the spirit of
self-sacrifice in the hearts of the friends; the worthy goal
for each national community to become self-supporting; the
perdurability of individuality of expression to absolute
uniformity, within the framework of the Administrative Order;
and the lasting value of dedication and devotion when engaged
in the teaching work.
43.3 We are confident that the implementation
of these principles as set forth in the writings of the
Guardian will aid you in your teaching work.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
43-1. See CC 2:61- 71.
+110
44 Sesquicentennial of the Birth of Bahá'u'lláh 25 JUNE 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
44.1 November 12, 1967, will mark the 150th anniversary of
Bahá'u'lláh's birth. We call the entire Bahá'í world to joyful
celebration, befitting an event so momentous to the fortunes
of humanity.
44.2 The Universal House of Justice feels that
the coincidence of this great occasion with the opening of the
proclamation period provides a splendid opportunity for
bringing to public attention both the spiritual and social
import of the Cause. Not only its message, but the historical
fact of a new Revelation, with all its implications of a new
and worldwide civilization, should be made clear.
44.3 Let the
friends not hesitate to welcome to their observances, even to
those of a devotional character, the non-Bahá'í public, many
of whom may well be attracted by the prayers and expressions
of gratitude of the believers, no less than by the exalted
tone of passages from Bahá'í writings.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
45 The Nature and Purpose of Proclamation 2 JULY 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
45.1 In just over three months the period of the worldwide
proclamation of the Faith will be opened at the six
Intercontinental Conferences called to celebrate the centenary
of the revelation of the Suriy-i-Muluk., Those conferences
will provide an opportunity for representatives of the
National Spiritual Assemblies to exchange ideas and coordinate
plans for the proclamation which will continue throughout the
remaining four and a half years of the Plan.
45.2 The
stimulating effect of this interchange of ideas will produce
greatly increased momentum throughout the world, but inasmuch
as many projects
45-1. The Suriy-i-Muluk is Bahá'u'lláh's Tablet to the Kings.
For further information about its significance, see messages
no. 24, 41, and 42. See also PB, pp. 7-12, 47-54, and 102-03
for the passages of the Suriy-i-Muluk that have been
translated into English.
+111
must be worked out before that date, we feel a few additional
comments on the nature and purpose of proclamation will be
helpful now.
45.3 Proclamation comprises a number of activities,
of which publicity is only one. The Universal House of
Justice itself will be conveying the Message of Bahá'u'lláh
to the heads of all states, but, in addition to this, one of
the most important duties of each National Spiritual Assembly
is to acquaint leaders of thought and prominent men and women
in its country with the fundamental aims, the history and the
present status and achievements of the Cause. Such an activity
must be carried out with the utmost wisdom, discretion and
dignity.
45.4 Publicity connected with such approaches must be
weighed very carefully, as it may be unwise or discourteous.
This is, of course, a long-range program, for such things
cannot be rushed, but it must be given constant attention.
Another aspect of proclamation is a series of teaching
programs designed to reach every stratum of human
society-programs that should be pursued diligently and wisely,
using every available resource. Publicity itself should be
well-conceived, dignified and reverent. A flamboyant approach
which may succeed in drawing much initial attention to the
Cause, may ultimately prove to have produced a revulsion which
would require great effort to overcome. The standard of
dignity and reverence set by the beloved Guardian should
always be upheld, particularly in musical and dramatic items;
and photographs of the Master should not be used
indiscriminately. This does not mean that activities of the
youth, for example, should be stultified; one can be exuberant
without being irreverent or undermining the dignity of the
Cause.
45.6 Every land has its own conditions, thus the kind of
proclamation activity to be followed in each country
should be decided by its National Spiritual Assembly. National
Spiritual
Assemblies need not follow or copy programs initiated in other
countries. In all proclamation activities, follow-up is of
supreme importance. Proclamation, expansion and consolidation
are mutually helpful activities which must be carefully
interrelated. In some places it is desirable to open a
teaching campaign with publicity-in others it is wiser to
establish first a solid local community before publicizing the
Faith or encouraging contacts with prominent people. Here,
again, wisdom is needed.
45.8 We have been elated by the enthusiasm
with which the Bahá'í community is preparing for the
challenging months and years ahead, and we eagerly await those
days but a few short months away which will open a period of
such promise for the diffusion of God's Word.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+112
46 Message to the Six Intercontinental Conferences OCTOBER
1967 To the Six Intercontinental Conferences,
Dearly loved Friends,
46.1 On this, the hundredth anniversary of the sounding in
Adrianople of the opening notes of Bahá'u'lláh's proclamation
to the rulers, leaders and peoples of the world, we recall
with profound emotion the circumstances surrounding the Faith
of God at that time. In a land termed by Him the "Land of
Mystery," the Bearer of God's Revelation had arisen to carry
that Faith a stage further in its divinely ordained destiny.2
46.2 Internally, the infant Cause of God was convulsed by a
crisis from whose shadows emerged the majestic figure of
Bahá'u'lláh, the visible Center and Head of a newly
established Faith.3 The first pilgrimages were made to His
Residence, a further stage in the transfer of the remains of
the Bab was achieved, and above all the first intimations were
given of the future station of 'Abdu'l-Bahá as the Center of
the Covenant and of the revelation of the new laws for the New
Day. Externally, the full significance of the new Revelation
___ 46-1. For an account of the six conferences, see BW
14:223-28. 46-2. Bahá'u'lláh was exiled to Adrianople in
December 1863, some eight months after pro claiming His
mission to His followers, friends, and companions in the
Garden of Ridvan out side of Baghdad, Iraq. Shoghi Effendi
explains that toward the latter part of His stay in Adrianople
"a period of prodigious activity ensued. . . ." 'such are the
outpourings ... from the clouds of Divine Bounty," Bahá'u'lláh
Himself wrote, "that within the space of an hour the
equivalent of a thousand verses hath been revealed." "I swear
by God! In those days the equivalent of all that hath been
sent down aforetime unto the Prophets hath been revealed"
(GPB, pp. 170-70. Among the Tablets revealed during this
period is the Suriy-i-Muluk (Tablet to the Kings), "the most
momentous Tablet revealed by Bahá'u'lláh in which He, for the
first time, directs his words collectively to the entire
company of the monarchs of East and West. . . ." (GPB, p.
171). For further information on the Suriy-i-Muluk, see
messages no. 24, 41, and 42. 46-3. The crisis was caused by
Mirza Yahya, Bahá'u'lláh's half-brother, whose covetousness
and jealousy of Bahá'u'lláh prompted him to openly challenge
Bahá'u'lláh's authority and to issue his own claim to be the
Promised One. Mirza Yahya went so far as to attempt to murder
Bahá'u'lláh by serving Him tea in a cup smeared with poison
while Bahá'u'lláh was a guest in his home. The poison induced
an illness that lasted over a month and was accompanied by
severe pains and a high fever and left Bahá'u'lláh with a
shaking hand for the rest of His life. This incident and other
actions of Mirza Yahya's led to his separation from
Bahá'u'lláh's family and companions. "This supreme crisis,"
Shoghi Effendi wrote, was designated by Bahá'u'lláh as the
"Days of Stress," "during which 'the most grievous veil' was
torn asunder, and the 'most great separation was irrevocably
effected. It immensely gratified and emboldened its [the
Bahá'í Faith's] external enemies, both civil and
ecclesiastical, played into their hands, and evoked their
unconcealed derision. It perplexed and confused the friends
and supporters of Bahá'u'lláh, and seriously damaged the
prestige of the Faith in the eyes of its
western admirers.... It brought incalculable sorrow to
Bahá'u'lláh, visibly aged Him, and inflicted, through its
repercussions, the heaviest blow ever sustained by Him in His
lifetime" (GPB, pp. 163- 64).
+113
was proclaimed by no one less than its Divine Bearer, His
followers began openly to identify themselves with the Most
Great Name, the independent character of the Faith became
established and its fearless exponents took up their pens in
defense of its fair name.4 Now, a hundred years later, the
friends gathered in the six Intercontinental Conferences to
commemorate the events of the past, privileged to gaze upon
the portrait of their Beloved, must consider the urgent needs
of the Cause today. As the Bahá'í world enters the third phase
of the Nine Year Plan we are called upon to proclaim once
again that Divine Message to the leaders and masses of the
world, to aid the Faith of God to emerge from obscurity into
the arena of public attention, to demonstrate through
steadfast adherence to its laws the independent character of
its mission and to brace ourselves in preparation for the
attacks that are bound to be directed against its victorious
onward march. Upon our efforts depends in very large measure
the fate of humanity. The hundred years' respite having ended,
the struggle between the forces of darkness-man's lower
nature-and the rising sun of the Divine teachings which draw
him on to his true station, intensifies day by day. The
Centenary campaign has been opened by the Universal House Of
Justice presenting to IV Heads of State a compilation of
Bahá'u'lláh's Own proclamation. The friends must now take the
Message to the rest of humanity. The time is ripe and the
opportunities
illimitable. We are not alone nor helpless. Sustained by our
love for each other and given power through the Administrative
Order-so
laboriously erected by our beloved Guardian-the Army of Light
can achieve such victories as will astonish posterity.
46.5 We pray
at the Holy Shrines that these Intercontinental Conferences
Will be centers of spiritual illumination inspiring the
friends to redouble their efforts in further expanding and
consolidating the Faith of God, to arise to
46-4. GPB, pp. 176-77. The first pilgrimages were made to the
House of Amru'llah (the House of God's Command) and
foreshadowed later pilgrimages made by Bahá'ís from the East
and the West to 'Akka. The remains of the Bab were moved
secretly at Bahá'u'lláh's instruction by two Bahá'ís from
Tehran from the Shrine of the Imam-Zadih Mds6m to some other
place of safety, an act that proved providential when the
shrine later underwent reconstruction. Concerning the station
of Abdu'l-Baha, Bahá'u'lláh revealed the Tablet of the Branch
in which 'Abdu'l-Bahá is extolled as the "Branch of Holiness,
the "Limb of the Law of God," and the "Trust of God, I'll sent
down in the form of a human temple" (quoted in WOB, pp.
134-35). The new laws Bahá'u'lláh revealed were those of
pilgrimage and fasting, later set forth in the Kitab-i-Aqdas.
With respect to external developments, during the days in
Adrianople Bahá'u'lláh revealed Tablets to the kings and
rulers of the world; the terms "Bab" and "the people of the
Bayan gave way to "Bahá'u'lláh and "the people of Baha"; the
greeting "Allah-u-Abha" (God is Most Glorious) replaced
'Allah-u-Akbar" (God is Most Great); and certain disciples of
Bahá'u'lláh arose to defend the Faith by refuting "in numerous
and detailed apologies" the arguments of its opponents and "to
expose their odious deeds." See GPB, pp. 176-77, and Hasan
Balyuzi, Bahá'u'lláh: The King of Glory, P. 250.
+114
fill the remaining pioneer goals, to undertake traveling
teaching projects, and to offer generously of their substance
to the various funds, particularly to the vital project of
erecting the Panama Temple, the foundation stone of which is
being laid by Amatu'l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum during the course
of these Conferences.
46.6 As humanity enters the dark heart
of this age of transition our course is clear-the achievement
of the assigned goals and the proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh's
healing Message. It is our ardent hope that from these
Conferences valiant souls may arise with noble resolve and in
loving service to ensure the successful and early
accomplishment of the sacred tasks that lie ahead.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
47 Inauguration of the Third Phase of the Nine Year Plan 15
OCTOBER 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
47.1 The following cable has just been sent to the United
States National Spiritual Assembly for publication in Bahá'í
News. Please share it with all friends in your jurisdiction.
47.2 HEARTS FILLED PROFOUND GRATITUDE REJOICE ANNOUNCE
INAUGURATION THIRD PHASE NINE YEAR PLAN THROUGH SUCCESSFUL
CONSUMMATION SIX INTERCONTINENTAL CONFERENCES ATTENDED BY
9,200 BELIEVERS INCLUDING NEARLY ALL HANDS CAUSE LARGE NUMBER
BOARD MEMBERS REPRESENTATIVES ALMOST ALL NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES
BAHA'I WORLD OVER 140 TERRITORIES AND HOST OF ASIAN AFRICAN
AMERINDIAN TRIBES. INESTIMABLE PRIVILEGE CONFERRED
PARTICIPANTS
THROUGH VIEWING PORTRAIT ABHA BEAUTY! SPIRIT HOLY LAND AND
ADRIANOPLE CONVEYED SIX DISTINGUISHED REPRESE11TTATIVES HOUSE
JUSTICE. FIRST PRESENTATIONS BEHALF HOUSE JUSTICE PROCLAMATION
BOOK HEADS OF STATE MADE BEFORE AND DURING CONFERENCE.
FRUITFUL DELIBERATIONS HELD PROCLAMATION EXECUTION REMAINING
GOALS PLAN. SOLIDARITY BAHA'I WORLD FURTHER EVINCED THROUGH
INGENIOUS SCHEME TELEPHONIC EXCHANGE GREETINGS ALL SIX
CONFERENCES. SPIRITUAL POTENCIES THIS NEW PHASE REINFORCED
THROUGH FORMAL LAYING BY AMATUL-BAHA OF CORNERSTONE MOTHER
TEMPLE LATIN AMERICA. OVER 230 OFFERS MADE AT CONFERENCES JOIN
RANKS VALIANT PIONEERS CAUSE. RAISE
47-1. Bahá'u'lláh.
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SUPPLIANT HANDS BAHA'U'LLAH ENDOW FRIENDS EVERY LAND FRESH
MEASURE CELESTIAL STRENGTH ENABLE THEM PURSUE WITH INCREASED
VISION UNABATED RESOLVE GLORIOUS GOALS AHEAD UNTIL THIS NEW
PERIOD PROCLAMATION YIELDS ITS SHARE IN DIVINELY PROPELLED
PROCESS ESTABLISHMENT KINGDOM GOD HEARTS MEN.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
48 Announcement of the Resignation of Dr. Lutfu'llah Hakim
from the Universal House of Justice 15 OCTOBER 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
After a lifetime of devoted and self-sacrificing service to
the Cause of God
48.1 Dr. Lutfu'llah Hakim has asked the
Universal House of Justice to accept his resignation from that
Institution because his health and advancing age make it
increasingly difficult for him to participate as effectively
as he would wish in its work. The Universal House of Justice
has regretfully accepted Dr. Hakim's resignation, but in view
of the imminence of the next election, has asked him to
continue to serve as a member until that time, and Dr. Hakim
has kindly consented to do so. Having served the Master
Himself in the Holy Land, as well as accompanying Him during
His historic visits in England and Scotland, and been
intimately associated with Shoghi Effendi in his youth, Dr.
Hakim was called again to the World Center by the beloved
Guardian in 1950 for important service at the World Center and
was later appointed to the first International Bahá'í Council,
of which he was the Eastern
Assistant Secretary., He continued to serve on that body and
then on the Universal House of Justice with undiminished
devotion but with increasing difficulty during the subsequent
sixteen years, earning the love and admiration of his
co-workers. Please share this announcement with the friends
in your area. 48.4
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
48-1. For an explanation of the International Bahá'í Council,
see the glossary.
+116
49 Assumption by the Universal House of Justice of
Representation of the Bahá'í International Community at the
United Nations 17 OCTOBER 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
49.1 MORROW SIX INTERCONTINENTAL CONFERENCES INAUGURATING
PROCLAMATION PERIOD ANNOUNCE BAHA'I WORLD SIGNIFICANT STEP
DEVELOPMENT RELATIONS UNITED NATIONS THROUGH ASSUMPTION BY
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE FUNCTION REPRESENTATION BAHA'I
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CAPACITY NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION
AT UNITED NATIONS. TAKE THIS OCCASION EXPRESS NATIONAL
ASSEMBLY UNITED STATES AND MILDRED MOTTAHEDEH GRATEFUL LOVING
APPRECIATION MANY YEARS DEVOTED TIRELESS SUCCESSFUL SERVICES
AS REPRESENTATIVE AND OBSERVER RESPECTIVELY'
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
so Laying of the Foundation Stone of the Panama Temple 23
OCTOBER 1967
To National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
50.1 We are happy to share with you the joyous news that the
Foundation Stone of the Mother Temple of Latin America has
been laid by Amatu'l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum on behalf of the
Universal House of Justice.
49-1. In 1947 the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís
of the United States and Canada was accredited to the United
Nations as a national nongovernmental organization qualified
to be represented at United Nations Conferences through a
designated observer. One year later the eight existing
National Spiritual Assemblies were recognized collectively as
an international nongovernmental organization under the title
"The Bahá'í International Community." Each National Spiritual
Assembly designated the National Spiritual Assembly of the
United States as its representative at the United Nations.
Mrs. Mildred Mottahedeh, who also served as a member of the
International Bahá'í Council from 1961 to 1963, was the
observer for the Bahá'í International Community for nearly
twenty years. The Bahá'í International Community, which now
includes at least five million believers, 165 National
Spiritual Assemblies, and
approximately twenty thousand Local Spiritual Assemblies,
maintains offices in New York and Geneva that are responsible
for relations between the Bahá'í International Community and
the United Nations.
50.2 For more information about the development
of the relationship between the Bahá'í International Community
and the United Nations during the years x963-73, see BW
15:364-73.
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This inaugurates the next phase in the planning and
construction of this important edifice which will
culminate in the commencement of the erection of the Temple
itself in January, 1969. During the current phase the final
working plans and specifications will be drafted, bids will
be obtained and contracts for construction will be placed. All
this will call for funds in ever-increasing amounts. We
therefore call upon all National Spiritual Assemblies to: 50.3
1. Inform the National Spiritual Assembly of Panama of the
amount of your budget allocation for the Panama temple during
this year and when they may expect contributions to be
received.
2. Transmit as soon as possible all available funds,
either accumulated or earmarked, directly to the National
Spiritual Assembly of Panama.
3.Encourage all Local Spiritual
Assemblies and individuals to contribute to this project.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
51 Selection of Traveling Teachers 26 OCTOBER 1967
To National Spiritual Assemblies Engaged in Mass Teaching Dear
Bahá'í Friends, We have been watching with keen interest the
development of the teaching work among the masses, and from
time to time have
offered suggestions to guide and assist the efforts of
National
Spiritual Assemblies engaged in this highly meritorious
activity. Many National Spiritual Assemblies in carrying out
their plans for expansion and consolidation have found it
necessary to select a number of believers for service as
traveling teachers. While we appreciate the valuable services
these traveling teachers have already rendered we are
nevertheless deeply conscious of the problems facing your
National Assemblies in your desire to carry out your teaching
programs with as much dispatch as possible. The purpose of
this letter is to draw your attention to the fact that these
problems could well be minimized if the selection of such
teachers were done with great care and discretion. It must be
realized that people who are mostly illiterate cannot have the
51.3 benefit of reading for themselves the written word and
of deriving directly from it the spiritual sustenance they
need for the enrichment of their Bahá'í lives. They become
dependent, therefore, to a large extent on their contacts
+118
with visiting teachers. The spiritual caliber or moral quality
of these teachers assumes, therefore, great importance. The
National Spiritual Assembly or the Teaching Committees
responsible for the selection of these teachers should bear
in mind that their choice must depend, not only on the
knowledge or grasp of the teachings on the part of the
teachers, but primarily upon their pure spirit and their true
love for the Cause, and their capacity to convey that spirit
and love to others.
51.4 We are enclosing some extracts from
the writings which will no doubt assist you in your
deliberations on this vital subject.' What wonderful results
will soon be witnessed in the areas under your jurisdiction
if you devise ways and means to ensure, as far as
circumstances permit, that the traveling teachers you are
encouraging to circulate among the friends will all be of the
standard called for in these quotations-pure and sanctified
souls, with nothing but true devotion and self-sacrifice
motivating them in their services to God's Holy Cause. We also
suggest that the study of quotations such as these should form
part of the courses offered at your Teaching Institutes for
the deepening of the friends.
51.5 We wish to assure you once
again of our fervent prayers at the Holy Shrines for the
solution of your problems and the removal of all obstacles
from the path you are so valiantly pursuing.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
52 Extracts on Teaching the Masses 31 OCTOBER 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
52.1 We have recently sent to those National Spiritual
Assemblies which are engaged in mass teaching the enclosed
extracts from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá and
from the letters of Shoghi Effendi. We feel that they will
also be of great assistance to all other National Spiritual
Assemblies.
52.2 The paramount goal of the teaching work at
the present time is to carry the message of Bahá'u'lláh to
every stratum of human society and every walk of life. An
eager response to the teachings will often be found in the
most unexpected quarters, and any such response should be
quickly followed up,
51-1. The same extracts were also included in the Universal
House of Justice's letter dated P October 1967 (message no.
52).
+119
for success in a fertile area awakens a response in those who
were at first uninterested.
52.3 The same presentation of the
teachings will not appeal to everybody; the method of
expression and the approach must be varied in accordance with
the outlook and interests of the hearer. An approach which is
designed to appeal to everybody will usually result in
attracting the middle section, leaving both extremes
untouched. No effort must be spared to ensure that the healing
Word of God reaches the rich and the poor, the learned and the
illiterate, the old and the young, the devout and the atheist,
the dweller in the remote hills and islands, the inhabitant
of the teeming cities, the suburban businessman, the laborer
in the slums, the nomadic tribesman, the farmer, the
university student; all must be brought consciously within the
teaching plans of the Bahá'í Community.
52.6 Whereas plans must be
carefully made, and every useful means adopted in 52.4 the
furtherance of this work, your Assemblies must never let such
plans eclipse the shining truth expounded in the enclosed
quotations: that it is the purity of heart, detachment,
uprightness, devotion and love of the teacher that attracts
the divine confirmations and enables him, however ignorant he
be in this world's learning, to win the hearts of his
fellowmen to the Cause of God.
With loving greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
Teaching the Masses Annex
Whoso ariseth, in this Day, to aid Our Cause, and summoneth
to his assistance the hosts of a praiseworthy character and
upright conduct, the influence flowing from such an action
will, most certainly, be diffused throughout the whole world.
(Bahá'u'lláh, Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, Rev.
ed. [Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 19831, sec. 131, P.
287)
Whoso ariseth to teach Our Cause must needs detach himself
from all earthly things, and regard, at all times, the
triumph of Our Faith as his supreme objective.... And when he
determineth to leave his home, for the sake of the Cause of
his Lord, let him put his whole trust in God, as the best
provision for his journey, and array himself with the robe of
virtue....
52.8 If he be kindled with the fire of His love, if he
forgoeth all created things, 52.7 the words he uttereth shall
set on fire them that hear him.... (Bahá'u'lláh, Gleanings
from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, sec. 157, pp. 334-35) 1
swear by Him Who is the Most Great Ocean! Within the very
breath of such souls as are pure and sanctified
far-reaching potentialities are hidden.
+120
So great are these potentialities that they exercise their
influence upon all created things. (Bahá'u'lláh, cited in
Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice [Wilmette: Bahá'í
Publishing Trust, 19841, P. 23)
52.9He is the true servant of God, who, in this day, were he
to pass through cities of silver and gold, would not deign to
look upon them, and whose heart would remain pure and
undefiled from whatever things can be seen in this world, be
they its goods or its treasures. I swear by the Sun of Truth!
The breath of such a man is endowed with potency, and his
words with attraction. (Bahá'u'lláh, cited in Shoghi Effendi,
The Advent of Divine Justice, P. 23)
52.10 The most vital duty, in this day, is to purify your
characters, to correct your manners, and improve your conduct.
The beloved of the Merciful must show forth such character and
conduct among His creatures, that the fragrance of their
holiness may be shed upon the whole world, and may quicken the
dead, inasmuch as the purpose of the Manifestation of God and
the dawning of the limitless lights of the Invisible is to
educate the souls of men, and refine the character of every
living man . . . (Abdu'l-Baha, cited in Shoghi Effendi, The
Advent of Divine Justice, p. 26)
52.11 Whensoever ye behold a person whose entire attention is
directed toward the Cause of God; whose only aim is this, to
make the Word of God to take effect; who, day and night, with
pure intent, is rendering service to the Cause; from whose
behavior not the
slightest trace of egotism or private motives is
discerned-who,
rather, wandereth distracted in the wilderness of the love of
God, and drinketh only from the cup of the knowledge of God,
and is utterly engrossed in spreading the sweet savours of
God, and is enamored of the holy verses of the Kingdom of
God-know ye for a certainty that this individual will be
supported and reinforced by heaven; that like unto the morning
star, he will forever gleam brightly out of the skies of
eternal grace. But if he show the
slightest taint of selfish desires and self love, his efforts
will lead to nothing and he will be destroyed and left
hopeless at the last. (Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the
Writings of Abdu'l-Baha, [Rev. ed.] [Haifa: Bahá'í World
Center, 19821, pp. 71-72)
52.12 The aim is this: The intention of the teacher must be
pure, his heart independent, his spirit attracted, his thought
at peace, his resolution firm, his magnanimity exalted and in
the love of God a shining torch. Should he become as such, his
sanctified breath will even affect the rock; otherwise there
will be no result whatsoever. As long as a soul is not
perfected, how can he efface the
+121
defects of others.
52.14 Unless he is detached from aught else save
God, how can he teach severance to others! ('Abdu'l-Bahá,
Tablets of the Divine Plan: Revealed by Abdu'l-Baha to the
North American Bahá'ís, Rev. ed. [Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing
Trust, 1980], p. 51)
One thing and only one thing will unfailingly and alone secure
the undoubted 52.13 triumph of this sacred Cause, namely the
extent to which our own inner life and private character
mirror forth in their manifold aspects the splendor of those
eternal principles proclaimed by Bahá'u'lláh. (Shoghi Effendi,
from a letter dated 24 September 1924 to the Bahá'ís of
America, published in Bahá'í Administration: Selected
Messages, IR22--TR32 [Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust,
1980], p. 66)
having attained sufficiently that individual regeneration -the
essential requisite of teaching-let us arise to teach
His Cause with righteousness, conviction, understanding and
vigor.
52.15 Let this be the paramount and most urgent duty of every
Bahá'í. . . . (Shoghi Effendi, from a letter dated 24 November
1924 to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States
and Canada, published in Bahá'í Administration, p. 67)
The first and most important qualification of a Bahá'í teacher
is, indeed, unqualified loyalty and attachment to the
Cause. Knowledge is, of course, essential, but compared to
devotion it is secondary in importance.
52.18 What the Cause now
requires is not so much a group of highly cultured 52.16 and
intellectual people who can adequately present its Teachings,
but a number of devoted, sincere and loyal supporters who, in
utter disregard of their own weaknesses and limitations, and
with hearts afire with the love of God, forsake their all for
the sake of spreading and establishing His Faith.... (From a
letter dated 14 November 1935 written on behalf of Shoghi
Effendi to the National Teaching Committee of the United
States and Canada, published in Bahá'í News, No. i02 [August
19361, P. 2)
They must remember the glorious history of the Cause, which
... was established by dedicated souls who, for the most part,
were neither rich, famous, nor well educated, but whose
devotion, zeal and self-sacrifice overcame every obstacle and
won miraculous victories for the Faith of God.... (From a
letter dated 29 June 1941 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi
to the National Spiritual Assembly of India and Burma,
published in Dawn of a New Day [New Delhi: Bahá'í Publishing
Trust, n.d. (1970)], p. 89)
. . . what raised aloft the banner of Bahá'u'lláh was the
love,
sacrifice, and devotion of His humble followers and the
change that His teachings wrought in their hearts and lives.
(From a letter dated 20 June 1942 written on behalf of Shoghi
Effendi to the National Spiritual Assembly of the British
Isles, published in Unfolding Destiny, [London: Bahá'í
Publishing Trust, 19811, P. 152)
+122
52.19 It is the quality of devotion and self-sacrifice that
brings rewards in the service of this Faith rather than means,
ability or financial backing. (From a letter dated ii May 1948
written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the National Spiritual
Assembly of Australia and New Zealand)
52.20 One wise and dedicated soul can so often give life to
an inactive community, bring in new people and inspire to
greater
sacrifice. He hopes that whatever else you are able to ' do
during the coming months, you will be able to keep in
circulation a few really good Bahá'í teachers. (From a letter
dated 30 June 1952 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to the
National Spiritual Assembly of Central America)
53 Plans for Commemorating the Sesquicentennial of the Birth
of Bahá'u'lláh at the First Oceanic Conference, Palermo,
Sicily 12 NOVEMBER 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
53.1 OCCASION HUNDRED FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY BIRTH BLESSED
BEAUTY WE CONTEMPLATE WITH HEARTS OVERFLOWING GRATITUDE
INESTIMABLE BOUNTIES CONFERRED BY GOD THROUGH HIS SUPREME
MANIFESTATION ENSURING FULFILLMENT GLORIOUS LONG PROMISED
KINGDOM NOW EVOLVING WOMB TRAVAILING AGE DESTINED CONFER PEACE
UNDREAMT FELICITY MANKIND., ANNOUNCE CONVOCATION TWENTY-THIRD
TO TWENTY-FIFTH AUGUST 1968 FIRST OCEANIC CONFERENCE Bahá'í
WORLD PALERMO SICILY HEART SEA TRAVERSED GOD'S MANIFESTATION
CENTURY AGO PROCEEDING INCARCERATION MOST GREAT PRISON.2
TWOFOLD PURPOSE CONFERENCE CONSIDER MOMENTOUS FULFILLMENT
AGE-OLD PROPHECIES Bahá'u'lláh GOD'S MESSENGER OVER EVERY
GRIEVOUS CALAMITY AND CONSULT PLANS PROPAGATION CAUSE ISLANDS
LANDS BORDERING MEDITERRANEAN SEA. PARTICIPANTS INVITED HOLY
LAND IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING CONFERENCE ATTEND COMMEMORATION
ARRIVAL LORD HOSTS THESE SACRED SHORES RECONSECRATE THEMSELVES
THRESHOLD HIS SHRINE PROSECUTION GLORIOUS TASKS AHEAD.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
___
53-1. The Blessed Beauty, Bahá'u'lláh, was born on 12.
November 1817.
53-2. On 12, August 1868 Bahá'u'lláh left Adrianople and
journeyed four days to Gallipoli, a city in Turkey on the
north side of the Dardenelles at the mouth of the Sea of
Marmara. After a few days in Gallipoli, Bahá'u'lláh sailed in
an Austrian steamer for Alexandria, where He was transferred
to another ship. He arrived in Akka on 31 August 1868. For a
fuller account of the journey, see GPB, pp. 178-82, and H.
54.2 M.
Balyuzi, Bahá'u'lláh: The King of Glory, pp. 255-79.
+123
54 Safeguarding the Letters of Shoghi Effendi DECEMBER 1967
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
As the friends are already aware, one of the goals of the Nine
Year Plan is 54.1 continued collation and classification of
the Bahá'í Sacred Scriptures, as well as the writings of
Shoghi Effendi.' We have already pointed out to the friends
on several occasions that the application of Bahá'í laws,
the elucidation and extension of basic administrative
principles, and the all-important function of legislating on
matters not explicitly recorded in our teachings are dependent
upon a careful study by the Universal House of Justice of the
revealed and pertinent words of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá,
as well as the illuminating interpretations and directions of
Shoghi Effendi. Through the labors of the beloved Guardian
himself, and the collaboration of the National Spiritual
Assembly of Persia, great strides have already been taken to
collate the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá. Even up
to the present time, a special National Committee in Persia
is assiduously and regularly engaged in classifying the Holy
Texts of the Founder of our Faith, and the Center of the
Covenant in fulfillment of the goal of the Nine Year Plan
referred to above. The writings of the Guardian, however,
apart from his general communications already published, which
consist to a large extent of letters written by him or on his
behalf to various National Spiritual Assemblies, Local
Spiritual Assemblies, groups of believers and individual
Bahá'ís, have only been partly collated. Although many
National Spiritual Assemblies and individual believers have
already sent the originals or copies of their letters from the
Guardian to the Holy Land, and quite a number of these have
been published at different times in Bahá'í News and other
news bulletins, it is our confirmed opinion that there are
many such letters that have still not been shared with us
which may contain a new application of a principle, an already
enunciated guideline rephrased to apply in a new situation,
a further elucidation of a Bahá'í law, a fresh light thrown
on a many-sided issue or some wise counsel in a personal
problem.
54.4 Your National Spiritual Assembly is requested,
therefore, to check carefully first in its own archives
or files of correspondence with the Guardian, for any letters
addressed to its body or to its subsidiary institutions,
written by Shoghi Effendi or on his behalf, and not yet
forwarded to the Holy Land. At the end 54-1. For additional
letters on the topic, see messages no. 161 and 40g.
+124
of this letter we indicate the number and description of
Shoghi
Effendi's letters falling into this category and pertaining
to your area, which we have in our archival files, so that you
need to take action in sending us only the text of letters not
included in this listing.
54.5 You are also requested to
appeal to the friends under your jurisdiction, calling on
those who were privileged to have received letters from the
Guardian but have not as yet sent their texts to the Holy Land
to take immediate steps to do so. In assisting the friends and
your National Spiritual Assembly in carrying out this
important project we offer the following points for your
consideration: 54.5aI. Recipients of letters from the Guardian
have the inherent right of deciding to keep the letters
themselves, or to have them preserved for the future in their
families. To assist the Universal House of Justice, how ever,
in its efforts to study and compile the letters of the
Guardian, the friends are urged to provide, for dispatch to
the Holy Land, photostatic copies of their communications from
the Guardian if they wish to keep the originals themselves.
54.5b2. If they are not in a position to provide such copies,
they should kindly allow National Spiritual Assemblies to
undertake this project on our behalf 54.5c3. If facilities for
obtaining clear photostatic or Xerox copies are not avail able
in any area, National Spiritual Assemblies are requested to
make carefully typed or handwritten copies of such letters,
with a certification on behalf of the National Spiritual
Assembly concerned that the copies are true and exact. 54.5d4.
Should any believer possess
letters so personal and confidential that he does not wish to
disclose their contents to any institution other than the
Universal House of Justice, he is invited to send either the
originals or copies of such letters, marked confidential,
directly to the Universal House of Justice, by registered
mail, with any instructions he wishes to be followed. 54.6We
hope these guidelines will help you in promoting a project
directly linked with the vital functions of the Universal
House of Justice.
55.1 You are free to quote from this letter as
you wish, in any appeal you address to the believers.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
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55 Relationship of Bahá'í's to Politics 8 DECEMBER 1967
To an individual Believer,
Dear Bahá'í Friend,
... we will gladly attempt to clarify some of the points
which bewilder YOU in the relationship of Bahá'ís to
politics.
55.3 This is a matter of very great importance,
particularly in these days when the world situation is so
confused; an unwise act or statement by a Bahá'í in one
country could result in a grave setback for the Faith there
or elsewhere-and even loss of the lives of fellow believers.
Viewing the World's Problems in the Light of God's Purpose for
Man The whole conduct of a Bahá'í in relation to the problems,
sufferings and 55.2 bewilderment of his fellowmen should be
viewed in the light of God's purpose for mankind in this age
and the processes He has set in motion for its achievement.
When Bahá'u'lláh proclaimed His
Message to the world in the nineteenth century He made
it abundantly clear that the first step essential for the
peace and progress of mankind was its unification. As He says,
"The well-being of mankind, its peace and security are
unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly
established." (The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, P. 203) To this
day, however, you will find most people take the opposite
point of view: they look upon unity as an ultimate almost
unattainable goal and concentrate first on remedying all the
other ills of mankind. If they did but know it, these other
ills are but various symptoms and side effects of the basic
disease-disunity.
55.4 Bahá'u'lláh has, furthermore, stated that
the revivification of mankind and the curing of all its
ills can be achieved only through the instrumentality of His
Faith. "The vitality of men's belief in God is dying out in
every land; nothing short of His wholesome medicine can ever
restore it. The corrosion of ungodliness is eating into the
vitals of human society; what else but the Elixir of His
potent Revelation can cleanse and revive it?" (Gleanings,
XCIX) "That which the Lord hath ordained as the sovereign
remedy and mightiest instrument for the healing of all the
world is the union of all its peoples in one universal Cause,
one common Faith. This can in no wise be achieved
55-1. The Universal House of Justice permitted publication of
portions of this letter to an individual who asked about the
relationship of Bahá'ís to the social and political forces
presently operating in the world, as it felt the explanation
had general
application in many parts of the world.
+126
except through the power of a skilled, an all-powerful and
inspired Physician. This, verily, is the truth, and all else
naught but error." (Gleanings, CXX) In similar vein, the
beloved Guardian wrote:
55.4a Humanity, whether viewed in the light of man's
individual
conduct or in the existing relationships between organized
communities and nations, has, alas, strayed too far and
suffered too great a decline to be redeemed through the
unaided efforts of the best among its recognized rulers and
statesmen-however disinterested their motives, however
concerted their action, however unsparing in their zeal and
devotion to its cause. No scheme which the calculations of the
highest statesmanship may yet devise, no doctrine which the
most distinguished exponents of economic theory may hope to
advance, no principle which the most ardent of moralists may
strive to inculcate, can provide, in the last resort, adequate
foundations upon which the future of a distracted world can
be built. No appeal for mutual tolerance which the
worldly-wise might raise, however compelling and insistent,
can calm its passions or help restore its vigor. Nor would any
general scheme of mere organized international cooperation,
in whatever sphere of human activity, however ingenious in
conception or extensive in scope, succeed in removing the root
cause of the evil that has so rudely upset the equilibrium of
present-day society. Not even, I venture to assert, would the
very act of devising the machinery required for the political
and economic unification of the world-a principle that has
been increasingly advocated in recent times-provide in itself
the antidote against the poison that is steadily undermining
the vigor of organized peoples and nations. What else, might
we not confidently affirm, but the unreserved acceptance of
the Divine Program enunciated, with such simplicity and force
as far back as sixty years ago, by Balli'll'11A, embodying in
its essentials God's divinely appointed scheme for the
unification of mankind in this age, coupled with an
indomitable conviction in the unfailing efficacy of each and
all of its provisions, is eventually capable of withstanding
the forces of internal disintegration which, if unchecked,
must needs continue to eat into the vitals of a despairing
society. (The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, pp. 33-34) Two
Processes at Work
55.5 We are told by Shoghi Effendi that two
great processes are at work in title world: the great Plan of
God, tumultuous in its progress, working through mankind as
a whole, tearing down barriers to world unity and forging
humankind into a unified body in the fires of suffering and
experience. This process will produce in God's due time, the
Lesser Peace, the political unification
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of the world., Mankind at that time can be likened to a body
that is unified but without life.
55.6 The second process, the task
of breathing life into this unified body-of creating true
unity and spirituality culminating in the Most Great Peace-is
that of the Bahá'ís, who are laboring consciously, with
detailed instructions and continuing divine guidance, to erect
the fabric of the Kingdom of God on earth, into which they
call their fellowmen, thus conferring upon them eternal life.3
The working out of God's Major Plan proceeds mysteriously in
ways directed by Him alone, but the Minor Plan that He
has given us to execute, as our part in His grand design for
the redemption of mankind, is clearly delineated.4 It is to
this work that we must devote all our energies, for there is
no one else to do it. So vital is this function of the Bahá'ís
that Bahá'u'lláh has written: "O friends! Be not careless of
the virtues with which ye have been endowed, neither be
neglectful of your high destiny. Suffer not your labors to be
wasted through the vain imaginations which certain hearts have
devised. Ye are the stars of the heaven of understanding, the
breeze that stirreth at the break of day, the soft-flowing
waters upon which must depend the very life of all men, the
letters inscribed upon His sacred scroll.
55.7 With the utmost
unity and in a spirit of perfect fellowship, exert yourselves,
that ye may be enabled to achieve that which beseemeth this
Day of God." (Gleanings, XCVI) Because love for our fellowmen
and anguish at their plight are essential parts of a true
Bahá'í's life, we are continually drawn to do what we can to
help them. It is vitally important that we do so whenever the
occasion presents itself, for our actions must say the same
thing as our words-but this compassion for our fellows must
not be allowed to divert our energies into channels which are
ultimately doomed to failure, causing us to neglect the most
important and fundamental work of all. There are hundreds of
thousands of well-wishers of mankind who devote their lives
to works of relief and charity, but a pitiful few to do the
work which God Himself most wants done: the spiritual
awakening and regeneration of mankind.
Our Task- Building Up the Bahá'í System It is often through
our misguided feeling that we can somehow aid our fellows
better by some activity outside the Faith, that Bahá'ís are
led to indulge 55-2. For an explanation of the Lesser Peace,
see the glossary. 55-3. For an explanation of the Most Great
Peace, see the glossary. 55-4. The Major Plan is God's plan
for humanity that Bahá'ís believe He Himself operates, which
is tumultuous in its progress, which works through humanity
as a whole, and which forges mankind into a unified body
through the fires of suffering and tribulation. Its ultimate
object is the Kingdom of God on earth. The Minor Plan is that
part of God's plan which the Bahá'ís are called upon to carry
out. It is clear and orderly and operates in the world through
the plans,
instructions, and guidance given by Abdu'l-Baha, Shoghi
Effendi, and now by the Universal House of Justice.
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in politics. This is a dangerous delusion. As Shoghi Effendi's
secretary wrote on his behalf. "What we Bahá'ís must face is
the fact that society is rapidly disintegrating-so rapidly
that moral issues which were clear a half century ago are now
hopelessly confused, and what is more, thoroughly mixed up
with battling political interests. That is why the Bahá'ís
must turn all their forces into the channel of building up the
Bahá'í Cause and its administration. They can neither change
nor help the world in any other way at present. If they become
involved in the issues the governments of the world are
struggling over, they will be lost. But if they build up the
Bahá'í pattern they can offer it as a remedy when all else has
failed." (Bahá'í News, No. 241, p. 14) "We must build up our
Bahá'í system, and leave the faulty systems of the world to
go their own way. We cannot change them through becoming
involved in them; on the contrary they will destroy us."
(Bahá'í News, No. 215, p.1)
55.9 Other instructions from the
Guardian, covering the same theme in more detail, can be found
on pages 24 and 29 to 32 of Principles of Bahá'í
Administration (1963 edition); you are no doubt already
familiar with these.5
55.10 The key to a true understanding
of these principles seems to be in these words of Bahá'u'lláh:
"O people of God! Do not busy yourselves in your own concerns;
let your thoughts be fixed upon that which will rehabilitate
the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts and souls of
men. This can best be achieved through pure and holy deeds,
through a virtuous life and a goodly behavior. Valiant acts
will ensure the triumph of this Cause, and a saintly character
will reinforce its power. Cleave unto righteousness, O people
of Baha! This' verily, is the commandment which this wronged
One hath given unto you, and the first choice of His
unrestrained Will for every one of you." (Gleanings, XLIII).
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
55-5. In the 1982 edition see pp. 24, 29-33.
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56 Election of the Universal House of Justice -- Ridvan 1968
22 APRIL 1968
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
ANNOUNCE BAHA'I WORLD NEWLY ELECTED MEMBERS UNIVERSAL HOUSE
OF JUSTICE AMOZ GIBSON ALI NAKHJAVANI HUSHMAND FATHEAZAM IAN
SEMPLE CHARLES WOLCOTT DAVID HOFMAN H. BORRAH KAVELIN HUGH
CHANCE DAVID RUHE.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
57 Message to National Conventions-1968 9 MAY 1968
To all National Bahá'í Conventions
WITH JOYFUL MEMORY OF DEDICATED SPIRIT MATURE DELIBERATIONS
SECOND
57.1 INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION HAIL GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY
NATIONAL CONVENTIONS AS CRUCIAL MIDWAY POINT NINE YEAR PLAN
APPROACHES GALVANIZE BELIEVERS DIRECT ALL EFFORTS ACHIEVEMENT
EVERY REMAINING GOAL AND SIMULTANEOUSLY EXTEND ACCELERATE
UNIVERSAL PROCLAMATION DIVINE MESSAGE. WITH UTMOST LOVE CALL
UPON ALL BAHA'IS FOR SACRIFICIAL OUTPOURING ENERGIES RESOURCES
ADVANCEMENT REDEEMING ORDER BAHA'U'LLAH SOLE REFUGE
MISDIRECTED HEEDLESS MILLIONS. WORLD CENTER FAITH SCENE
PROLONGED PRAYERFUL CONSULTATION WITH ASSEMBLED HANDS CAUSE
GOALS PLAN INCLUDING FUNDAMENTAL OBJECTIVE DEVELOPMENT
INSTITUTION HANDS VIEW EXTENSION FUTURE GOD-GIVEN DUTIES
PROTECTION PROPAGATION. SUPPLICATING CONTINUALLY HOLY SHRINES
LORD HOSTS BOUNTIFULLY REWARD DEDICATED ARDENT LOVERS COMPLETE
GLORIOUS VICTORY.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
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58 Announcement of Decision to Establish Eleven Continental
Boards of Counselors 21 JUNE 1968
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
58.1 REJOICE ANNOUNCE MOMENTOUS DECISION ESTABLISH ELEVEN
CONTINENTAL BOARDS COUNSELORS PROTECTION PROPAGATION FAITH
THREE EACH FOR AFRICA AMERICAS ASIA ONE EACH FOR AUSTRALASIA
EUROPE. ADOPTION THIS SIGNIFICANT STEP FOLLOWING CONSULTATION
WITH HANDS CAUSE GOD ENSURES EXTENSION FUTURE APPOINTED
FUNCTIONS THEIR INSTITUTION. CONTINENTAL BOARDS ENTRUSTED IN
CLOSE COLLABORATION HANDS CAUSE WITH RESPONSIBILITY DIRECTION
AUXILIARY BOARDS AND CONSULTATION NATIONAL SPIRITUAL
ASSEMBLIES. HANDS CAUSE GOD WILL HENCEFORTH INCREASE
INTERCONTINENTAL SERVICES ASSUMING WORLDWIDE ROLE PROTECTION
PROPAGATION FAITH. MEMBERS AUXILIARY BOARDS WILL REPORT BE
RESPONSIBLE TO CONTINENTAL BOARDS COUNSELORS. HANDS CAUSE
RESIDING HOLY LAND IN ADDITION SERVING Bahá'u'lláh BETWEEN
UNIVERSAL HOUSE JUSTICE AND CONTINENTAL BOARDS COUNSELORS WILL
ASSIST FUTURE ESTABLISHMENT INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER HOLY
LAND FORESHADOWED WRITINGS BELOVED GUARDIAN. DETAILS NEW
DEVELOPMENTS BEING CONVEYED BY LETTER. FERVENTLY SUPPLICATING
HOLY THRESHOLD DIVINE CONFIRMATIONS FURTHER STEP IRRESISTIBLE
UNFOLDMENT MIGHTY ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER BAHA'U'LLAH.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
S9 Establishment of Continental Boards of Counselors 24 JUNE
1968 To the Bahá'ís of the World
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
59.1 The majestic unfoldment of Bahá'u'lláh's world-redeeming
administrative system has been marked by the successive
establishment of the various institutions and agencies which
constitute the framework of that divinely created Order. Thus,
more than a quarter of a century after the emergence of the
first National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'í world the
Institution of the Hands of the Cause of God was formally
established, with the appointment by the beloved Guardian, in
conformity with the provisions of 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will and
Testament, of the first contingent of these high-ranking
officers of the
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Faith. Following the passing of the Guardian of the Cause of
God, it fell to the House of Justice to devise a way, within
the Administrative Order, of developing "the Institution of
the Hands of the Cause with a view to extension into the
future of its appointed functions of protection and
propagation," and this was made a goal of the Nine Year Plan.,
Much thought and study has been given to the question over the
past four years, and the texts have been collected and
reviewed. During the last two months, this goal, as announced
in our cable to the National Conventions, has been the object
of prolonged and prayerful consultation between the Universal
House of Justice and the Hands of the Cause of God. All this
made evident the framework within which this goal was to be
achieved, namely:
The Universal House of Justice sees no way in which additional
Hands 59.1. of the Cause of God can be appointed.
59.1 The absence
of the
Guardian of the Faith brought about an entirely new b
relationship between the Universal House of Justice and the
Hands of the Cause and called for the progressive unfoldment
by the Universal House of Justice of the manner in which the
Hands of the Cause would carry out their divinely conferred
functions of protection and propagation. Whatever new
development or institution is initiated should come into 59.1c
operation as soon as possible in order to reinforce and
supplement the work of the Hands of the Cause while at the
same time taking full advantage of the opportunity of having
the Hands themselves assist in launching and guiding the new
procedures.
59.2 Any such institution must grow and operate in
harmony with the principles governing the functioning of the
Institution of the Hands of the Cause of God.
In the light of these considerations the Universal House of
Justice decided, as announced in its recent cable, to
establish Continental Boards of Counselors for the protection
and propagation of the Faith. Their duties will include
directing the Auxiliary Boards in their respective areas,
consulting and collaborating with National Spiritual
Assemblies, and keeping the Hands of the Cause and the
Universal House of Justice informed concerning the conditions
of the Cause in their areas.
59.3 Initially eleven Boards of
Counselors have been appointed, one for each Of the
following areas: Northwestern Africa, Central and East Africa,
Southern Africa, North America, Central America, South
America, Western Asia, Southeastern Asia, Northeastern Asia,
Australasia and Europe.
59-1. See message no. 14.
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59.4 The members of these Boards of Counselors will serve for
a term, or terms, the length of which will be determined and
announced at a later date, and while serving in this capacity,
will not be eligible for membership on national or local
administrative bodies. One member of each Continental Board
of Counselors has been designated as Trustee of the
Continental Fund for its area.
59.5 The Auxiliary Boards for
Protection and Propagation will henceforth report to the
Continental Boards of Counselors who will appoint or replace
members of the Auxiliary Boards as circumstances may require.
Such appointments and replacements as may be necessary in the
initial stages will take place after consultation with the
Hand or Hands previously assigned to the continent or zone.
59.6 The Hands of the Cause of God have the prerogative and
obligation to consult with the Continental Boards of
Counselors and National Spiritual Assemblies on any subject
which, in their view, affects the interests of the Cause. The
Hands residing in the Holy Land will act as liaison between
the Universal House of Justice and the Continental Boards of
Counselors, and will also assist the Universal House of
Justice in setting up, at a propitious time, an international
teaching center in the Holy Land, as anticipated in the
Guardian's writings.
59.7 The Hands of the Cause of God are
one of the most precious assets the Bahá'í world possesses.
Released from administration of the Auxiliary Boards, they
will be able to concentrate their energies on the more primary
responsibilities of general protection and propagation,
PRESERVATION [of the] SPIRITUAL HEALTH [of the] BAHA'I
COMMUNITIES" and the "VITALITY [of the] FAITH" of the Bahá'ís
throughout the world.2 The House of Justice will call upon
them to undertake special missions on its behalf, to represent
it on both Bahá'í and other occasions and to keep it informed
of the welfare of the Cause. While the Hands of the Cause
will, naturally, have special concern for the affairs of the
Cause in the areas in which they reside, they will operate
increasingly on an intercontinental level, a factor which will
lend tremendous impetus to the diffusion throughout the Bahá'í
world of the spiritual inspiration channeled through them-the
Chief Stewards of Bahá'u'lláh's embryonic World Commonwealth.
59.8 With joyful hearts we proclaim this further unfoldment
of the Administrative Order of Bahá'u'lláh and join our
prayers to those of the friends throughout the East and the
West that Bahá'u'lláh may continue to shower His confirmations
upon the efforts of His servants in the safeguarding and
promotion of His Faith.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
59-2. MBW, p. 123
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60 First Appointments to Continental Boards of Counselors 24
JUNE 1968
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
We list below the names of those who have been appointed to
the first
60.1 Continental Boards of Counselors for the
Protection and Propagation of the Faith:
Northwestern Africa Husayn Ardikani (Trustee, Continental
Fund), Muhammad Kebdani, William Maxwell.
Central and East Africa Oloro, Epyeru, Kolonario Oule, Isobel
Sabri, Mihdi Samandari, Aziz Yazdi (Trustee, Continental
Fund).
Southern Africa Seewoosumbur-Jeehoba Appa, Shidan Fat'he-Azam
(Trustee, Continental Fund), Bahiyyih Ford.
North America Lloyd Gardner, Florence Mayberry, Edna True
(Trustee, Continental Fund).
Central America Carmen de Burafato, Artemus Lamb, Alfred
Osborne (Trustee, Continental Fund).
South America Athos Costas, Hooper Dunbar (Trustee,
Continental
Fund), Donald Witzel.
Western Asia Masih Farhangi, Mas'ud Khamsi, Hadi Rahmani
(Trustee, Continental Fund), Manuchihr Salanpur, Sankaran-Nair
Vasudevan.
Southeast Asia Yan Kee Leong, Khudarahm Payman (Trustee,
Continental Fund), Chellie Sundram. Northeast Asia Ruhu'llah
Mumtazi (Trustee, Continental Fund), Vicente Samaniego.
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Australasia Suhayl 'Ali'i, Howard Harwood, Thelma Perks
(Trustee, Continental Fund).
Europe Erik Blumenthal, Dorothy Ferraby (Trustee, Continental
Fund), Louis Henuzet.
60.2 Please share this list with the friends.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
61 Message to First National Youth Conference in the United
States 26 JUNE 1968
To the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the
United
States
61.1
WARMLY ACKNOWLEDGE CONFIDENT JOYOUS MESSAGE FROM BAHA'I YOUTH
GATHERED PRECINCTS MOTHER TEMPLE WEST. MOVED THEIR
DETERMINATION SEIZE OPPORTUNITIES SERVE BELOVED FAITH CALL ON
THEM BOLDLY C14ALLENGE INVITE CONFUSED CONTEMPORARIES
ENTRAPPED MORASS MATERIALISM TO EXAMINE PARTAKE LIFEGIVING
POWER CAUSE JOIN ARMY
BAHA'U'LLAH CONFRONT NEGATIVE FORCES OF A SOCIETY SADLY
LACKING
SPIRITUAL VALUES. ASSURE YOUTH ARDENT PRAYERS HOLY SHRINES
GUIDANCE CONFIRMATION THEIR COURAGEOUS EFFORTS.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+135
62 Passing of the Hand of the Cause of God Hermann Grossmann
9 JULY 1968
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
62.1 DEEPLY REGRET ANNOUNCE PASSING HAND CAUSE HERMANN
GROSSMANN.1 GREATLY ADMIRED BELOVED GUARDIAN HIS GRIEVOUS LOSS
DEPRIVES COMPANY HANDS CAUSE OUTSTANDING COLLABORATOR AND
BAHA'I WORLD COMMUNITY STAUNCH DEFENDER PROMOTER FAITH. HIS
COURAGEOUS LOYALTY DURING
CHALLENGING YEARS TESTS PERSECUTIONS GERMANY OUTSTANDING
SERVICES SOUTH AMERICA IMMORTALIZED ANNALS FAITH. INVITE ALL
NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES HOLD MEMORIAL GATHERINGS
BEFITTING HIS EXALTED RANK EXEMPLARY SERVICES.
63.1 REQUEST THOSE
RESPONSIBLE MOTHER TEMPLES ARRANGE SERVICES AUDITORIUM.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
63 Message to the First Oceanic Conference, Palermo, Sicily
AUGUST 1968
To the Hands of the Cause of God and the Bahá'í Friends
assembled in, Palermo, Sicily, at the First Bahá'í Oceanic
Conference Dearly loved Friends, The event which we
commemorate at this first Bahá'í Oceanic Conference is
unique. Neither the migration of Abraham from Ur of the
Chaldees to the region of Aleppo, nor the journey of Moses
towards the Promised Land, nor the flight into Egypt of Mary
and Joseph with the infant Jesus, nor yet the Hegira of
Muhammad can compare with the voyage made by God's Supreme
Manifestation one hundred years ago from Gallipoli to the Most
Great Prison., Bahá'u'lláh's voyage was forced upon Him by the
two despots who were His chief
62-1. For an account of the life and services of Hermann
Grossmann, see BW 15:416-21. 63-1. Shoghi Effendi explains
that during the stay in Gallipoli, which lasted three nights,
"no one knew what Bahá'u'lláh's destination would be. Some
believed that He and His brothers would be banished to one
place, and the remainder dispersed, and sent into exile.
Others thought that His companions would be sent back to
Persia, while still others expected their immediate
extermination. . . ." 'so grievous were the dangers and trials
confronting Bahá'u'lláh at the hour of His departure from
Gallipoli that He warned His companions that 'this journey
will be unlike any of the previous journeys,' and that whoever
did not feel himself 'man enough to face the future' had
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adversaries in a determined attempt to extirpate once and for
all His Cause, and the decree of His fourth banishment came
when the tide of His prophetic utterance was in full flood.2
The proclamation of His Message to mankind had begun; the sun
of His majesty had reached its zenith and, as attested by the
devotion of His followers, the respect of the population and
the esteem of officials and the representatives of foreign
powers, His ascendancy had become manifest. At such a time He
was confronted with the decree of final exile to a remote,
obscure and pestilential outpost of the decrepit Turkish
empire.
63.2 Bahá'u'lláh knew, better than His royal
persecutors, the magnitude of the crisis, with all its
potentiality for disaster, which confronted Him. Consigned to
a prison cell, debarred from access to those to whom His
Message must be addressed, cut off from His followers save for
the handful who were to accompany Him, and deprived even of
association with them, it was apparent that by all earthly
standards the ship of His Cause must founder, His mission
wither and die.
63.3 But it was the Lord of Hosts with Whom
they were dealing. Knowing the sufferings which faced Him His
one thought was to instill confidence and fortitude into His
followers, to whom He immediately dispatched sublime Tablets
asserting the power of His Cause to overcome all opposition.
'should they attempt to conceal its light on the continent,"
is one of His powerful
utterances on this theme, "it will assuredly rear its head in
the midmost heart of the ocean, and, raising its voice,
proclaim 'I am the lifegiver of the world!3 All the
afflictions which men could heap upon Him were thrown back
from the rock of His adamantine will like spray from the
ocean. His patient submission to the affronts of men, His
fortitude, His divine genius transformed the somber notes of
disaster into the diapason of triumph. At the nadir of His
worldly fortunes He raised His standard of victory above the
Prison City and poured forth upon mankind the healing balm of
His laws and ordinances revealed in His Most Holy Book.4
"Until our time," comments Abdu'l-Baha, "no such thing has
ever occurred."5
best depart to whatever place he pleaseth, and be preserved
from tests, for hereafter he will find himself unable to leave
-- a warning which His companions unanimously chose to
disregard" (GPB, pp.
181-82). For a fuller account of Bahá'u'lláh's journey from
Adrianople to the Most Great Prison in AW, see GPB, pp.
178-82, and H. M. Balyuzi, Bahá'u'lláh: The King of Glory, pp.
255-6863-2. Bahá'u'lláh's chief adversaries were Sultan
'Abdu'l-Aziz of Turkey and Nasiri'd-Din Shah of Persia.
Bahá'u'lláh's banishments were to Baghdad, Iraq, January
1853-April 1863; to Constantinople (now Istanbul), Turkey,
August-December 1863; to Adrianople (now Edirne), Turkey,
December 1863-August 1868; and to 'Akka, Palestine, August
1868. The "full flood" of Bahá'u'lláh's utterances refers to,
among other things, His letters to the kings and rulers of the
world. 63-3. GPB, P. 253. 63_4. Bahá'u'lláh revealed the
Kitab-i-Aqdas, the chief repository of His laws and the Mother
Book of His Revelation, in Akka circa 1873. 63-5.
63.4 GPB, p. 196.
+137
Our Part-Building Bahá'u'lláh's Order
Contemplating this awe-inspiring, supernal episode, we may
obtain a clearer understanding of our own times, a more
confident view of their outcome and a deeper apprehension of
the part we are called upon to play. That the violent
disruption which has seized the entire planet is beyond the
ability of men to assuage, unaided by God's revelation, is a
truth repeatedly and forcibly set forth in our Writings. The
old order cannot be repaired; it is being rolled up before our
eyes. The moral decay and disorder convulsing human society
must run their course; we can neither arrest nor divert them.
Our task is to build the Order of Bahá'u'lláh. Undeflected by
the desperate expedients of those who seek to subdue the storm
convulsing human life by political, economic, social or
educational programs, let us, with single-minded devotion and
concentrating all our efforts on our objective, raise His
Divine System and sheltered within its impregnable stronghold,
safe from the darts of doubtfulness, demonstrate the Bahá'í
way of life. Wherever a Bahá'í community
exists, whether large or small, let it be distinguished for
its abiding sense of security and faith, its high standard of
rectitude, its complete freedom from all forms of prejudice,
the spirit of love among its members and for the closely knit
fabric of its social life.
63.6 The acute distinction between this
and present-day society will
inevitably arouse the interest of the more enlightened, and
as the world's gloom deepens the light of Bahá'í life will
shine brighter and brighter until its brilliance must
eventually attract the disillusioned masses and cause them to
enter the haven of the Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh, Who alone can
bring them peace and justice and an ordered life.
The Mediterranean-Past History and Spiritual Potential The
great sea, on one of whose chief islands you are now gathered,
within whose hinterland and islands have flourished the
Jewish, the Christian and Islamic civilizations is a befitting
scene for the first Oceanic Bahá'í Conference. Two millenniums
ago, in this arena, the disciples of Christ performed such
deeds of heroism and self-sacrifice as are remembered to this
day and are forever enshrined in the annals of His Cause.
63.7 A
thousand years later the lands, bordering the southern and
western shores of this sea witnessed the glory of Islam's
Golden Age.6 In the day of the Promised One this same sea
achieved eternal fame through its association with the
Heroic and Formative Ages of His Cause. It bore upon its bosom
the King of kings Himself, the Center of His Covenant crossed
and recrossed it in the course of His epoch-making journeys
to the West, during which He left the indelible imprint of His
presence upon European and African lands; the Sign of God on
earth frequently journeyed upon it.7 It
63-6. The classical age of Islamic civilization, the eighth
through thirteenth centuries. 63-7. Bahá'u'lláh sailed upon
the Mediterranean Sea in 1868 during His journey from
Gallipoli to AW. 'Abdu'l-Bahá, the Center of Bahá'u'lláh's
Covenant, accompanied Bahá'u'lláh on
+138
enshrines within its depths the mortal remains of the Hand of
the Cause of God Dorothy Baker and around its shores lies the
dust of apostles, martyrs and pioneers. Forty-six Knights of
Bahá'u'lláh are identified with seven of its islands and five
of its territories. Through such and many other episodes,
Mediterranean lands-ancient home of civilizations-have been
endowed with spiritual potentiality to dissolve the
encrustations of those once glorious but now moribund social
orders and to radiate once again the light of Divine guidance.
63.8 Through dedicated, heroic and sacrificial deeds during
the course of the beloved Guardian's ministry, the Faith of
Bahá'u'lláh was established in this area. Eight pillars of the
Universal House of Justice were raised, the first of an even
larger number to be established now and during the course of
future plans, to include, as envisioned by Shoghi Effendi,
National Spiritual Assemblies in major islands of that
historic sea. The Need for a Dramatic Upsurge in Effective
Teaching
63.9 The timing of such exciting developments is
dependent upon the outcome of the Nine Year Plan. At this
midway point of that Plan, although great strides have been
made, more than half the goals are still to be won. The
greatest deficiencies are in the opening of new centers where
Bahá'ís reside and the formation of Local Spiritual
Assemblies, which inevitably affects the ability to establish
National Spiritual Assemblies. A dramatic upsurge of
teaching-effective teaching-is necessary to make up the
leeway;
pioneers are needed, teachers must travel, funds must be
provided. It is our hope that there will be engendered at this
Conference, through your enthusiasm, prayers and spirit of
devotion, a great spiritual dynamic to reinforce that grand
momentum which, mounting steadily during the next four years,
must carry the community of the Most Great Name to
overwhelming victory in 1973.
63.10 Dear friends, within a few
short days the observance of the Centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's
arrival in the Holy Land will take place. The hearts and minds
of the entire Bahá'í world will be focused on the Most Holy
Shrine, where those privileged to attend this commemoration
will circumambulate that Holy Spot and raise their prayers to
the Lord of the Age.' Let them remember their fellow-believers
at home and supplicate from the depths of their souls for such
bounties and favors to descend upon the friends of God
everywhere
that journey and later sailed upon the Mediterranean in the
course of His travels to Egypt, Europe, and North America,
1910-13. Shoghi Effendi, the Sign of God on earth, traversed
the Mediterranean in his travels to England to study at Oxford
University and in the course of later visits to Europe. 63-8.
The Centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's arrival in the Holy Land was
observed at the Bahá'í World Center 26-31 August 1968. About
1,500 Bahá'ís who attended the First Oceanic Conference in
Palermo, Sicily, 23-25 August 1968, went to Israel to
participate in the commemoration. For an account of the
commemoration, see BW 15:81-86.
+139
as to cause them to rise as one man to demonstrate their love
for Him Who suffered for them, by such deeds of sacrifice and
devotion as shall outshine the deeds of the past and sweep
away every obstacle from, the onward march of the Cause of
God.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
64 Passing of Dr. Lotfullah Hakim, Member of the Universal
House of Justice 12 AUGUST 1968
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
We share with you the following cable which we have just sent
to the
64.1 National Spiritual Assembly of Persia: i
GRIEVE ANNOUNCE PASSING LUTFU'LLAH HAKIM DEDICATED SERVANT
CAUSE GOD SPECIAL MISSIONS ENTRUSTED HIM FULL CONFIDENCE
REPOSED IN HIM BY MASTER AND GUARDIAN HIS CLOSE ASSOCIATION
WITH EARLY DISTINGUISHED BELIEVERS EAST WEST INCLUDING HIS
COLLABORATION ESSLEMONT HIS SERVICES PERSIA BRITISH ISLES HOLY
LAND HIS MEMBERSHIP APPOINTED AND ELECTED INTERNATIONAL BAHA'I
COUNCIL HIS ELECTION UNIVERSAL HOUSE JUSTICE WILL ALWAYS BE
REMEMBERED IMMORTAL ANNALS FAITH BAHA'U'LLAH. INFORM BELIEVERS
HOLD BEFITTING MEMORIAL MEETINGS ALL CENTERS. CONVEY ALL
MEMBERS HIS FAMILY EXPRESSIONS LOVING SYMPATHY ASSURANCE
PRAYERS PROGRESS HIS RADIANT SOUL ABHA KINGDOM.
In view of Dr.
64.2 Hakim's long and devoted record of services to
the Faith other National Spiritual Assemblies are
requested to hold memorial gatherings. Special commemorative
services should also be held in the four Mother Temples of the
Bahá'í World.2
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
64-1. For an account of the life and services of Lotfullah
Hakim, see BW 15:430-34. See also message no. 48. 64-2.
Wilmette, near Chicago, U.S.A.; Ingleside, near Sydney,
Australia; Kampala, Uganda; Langenhain, near Frankfurt am
Main, Germany.
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65 Passing of the Hand of the Cause of God Tarazu'llah
Samandari 4 SEPTEMBER 1968
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
65.1 WITH SORROWFUL HEARTS ANNOUNCE PASSING HAND CAUSE GOD
SHIELD HIS FAITH DEARLY LOVED TARAZU'LLAH SAMANDARI
NINETY-THIRD YEAR HIS LIFE ON MORROW COMMEMORATION CENTENARY
BAHA'U'LLAH'S ARRIVAL HOLY LAND.1 FAITHFUL TO LAST BREATH
INSTRUCTIONS HIS LORD HIS MASTER HIS GUARDIAN HE CONTINUED
SELFLESS DEVOTED SERVICE UNABATED UNTIL FALLING ILL DURING
RECENT TEACHING MISSION. UNMINDFUL ILLNESS HE PROCEEDED HOLY
LAND PARTICIPATE CENTENARY. EVER REMEMBERED HEARTS BELIEVERS
FAST WEST TO WHOSE LANDS HE TRAVELED BEARING MESSAGE HIS LORD
WHOSE COMMUNITIES HE FAITHFULLY SERVED THIS PRECIOUS REMNANT
HEROIC AGE WHO ATTAINED PRESENCE BLESSED BEAUTY YEAR HIS
ASCENSION NOW LAID REST FOOT MOUNTAIN GOD AMIDST THRONG
BELIEVERS ASSEMBLED VICINITY VERY SPOT BAHA'U'LLAH FIRST TROD
THESE SACRED SHORES. REQUEST ALL NATIONAL ASSEMBLIES HOLD
MEMORIAL SERVICES INCLUDING FOUR MOTHER TEMPLES BAHA'I WORLD
BEFITTING LONG LIFE DEDICATED EXEMPLARY SERVICE LORD HOSTS BY
ONE ASSURED CENTER COVENANT LOVING WELCOME PRESENCE
BAHA'U'LLAH ABHA KINGDOM.2 EXTEND LOVING SYMPATHY ASSURANCE
PRAYERS MEMBERS DISTINGUISHED FAMILY. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF
JUSTICE
66 Results of the Palermo Conference 8 SEPTEMBER 1968
To the Bahá'ís of the World
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
66.1 The glorious Conference in Palermo concluded with a burst
of eager enthusiasm of determined and dedicated believers who
have pledged to do their part in winning the remaining goals
of the Nine Year Plan. More than 125 offered to pioneer and
more than 100 volunteered to do travel teaching. In addition,
there was a generous outpouring of material resources to
finance
65-1. For an account of the life and services of Tarazu'llah
Samandari, see BW 15:4io-i6. 65-2. Memorial services were held
in the Houses of Worship in Wilmette, near Chicago, U.S.A.;
Ingleside, near Sydney, Australia; Kampala, Uganda; and
Langenhain, near Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
+141
teaching projects. Had the entire Bahá'í world been able to
participate in the Mediterranean Conference we have no doubt
that all the goals would be quickly won.
66.2 With this in mind we
wish to impress upon the friends who could not attend the
Conference, and who will surely-through reports and personal
contact with those who did-sense the enthusiasm generated
there, that all believers have the privilege to share in the
pioneering work, in the travel teaching program and in
contributing to the Fund. We announced at the Conference that
the International Deputization
66.3 Fund, so far used to aid
pioneering and travel teaching on an international level, will
henceforth be available to assist such projects on the
national level in those areas where support is vitally
important to the
winning of the goals of the Nine Year Plan. We are concerned
that, although we are now approaching the midway point of the
Plan we must yet form an additional 6,997 Local Spiritual
Assemblies (76% of the goal), and take the Faith to over
22,800 new localities (59% of the goal). Obviously, hundreds
of pioneers and traveling teachers will be required, many of
whom will serve in their own countries. Those who cannot
pioneer or do travel teaching will want to participate 66.4
by contributing to the International Deputization Fund. Let
them remember Bahá'u'lláh's injunction: "Center your energies
in the propagation of the Faith of God. Whoso is worthy of so
high a calling, let him arise and promote it. Whoso is unable,
it is his duty to appoint him who will, in his stead, proclaim
this Revelation . . .", Let the Bahá'ís of the world join in
the true spirit of universal participation and win all the
victories while there is yet time. Let each assume his full
measure of responsibility that all may share the laurels of
accomplishment at the end of the Plan. Our fervent prayer is
that this one-hundredth anniversary of the final banishment
of Bahá'u'lláh will mark a significant turning-point in the
fortunes of the Nine Year Plan.2
With loving Bahá'í greetings, THE Universal HOUSE OF JUSTICE
66-1. GWB, pp. 196-9766-2. See the August 1968 message to the
First Oceanic Conference-Palermo, Sicily, (no. 63) for an
explanation of the final banishment of Bahá'u'lláh and its
significance.
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67 Letter to Youth-Pioneering and Education 9 OCTOBER 1968 To
the Bahá'í Youth in Every Land
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
67.1
In the two years since we last addressed the youth of the
Bahá'í world many remarkable advances have been made in the
fortunes of the Faith. Not the least of these is the
enrollment under the banner of Bahá'u'lláh of a growing army
of young men and women eager to serve His Cause. The zeal, the
enthusiasm, the steadfastness and the devotion of the youth
in every land has brought great joy and assurance to our
hearts. 67.2During the last days of August and the first days
of September, when nearly two thousand believers from all over
the world gathered in the Holy Land to commemorate the
Centenary of Bahá'u'lláh's arrival on these sacred shores, we
had an opportunity to observe at first hand those qualities
of good character, selfless service and determined effort
exemplified in the youth who served as volunteer helpers, and
we wish to express our gratitude for their loving assistance
and for their example. 67.3Many of them offered to pioneer,
but one perplexing question recurred: Shall I continue my
education, or should I pioneer, now? Undoubtedly this same
question is in the mind of every young Bahá'í wishing to
dedicate his life to the advancement of the Faith. There is
no stock answer which applies to all situations; the beloved
Guardian gave different answers to different individuals on
this question. Obviously circumstances vary with each
individual case. Each individual must decide how he can best
serve the Cause. In making this decision, it will be helpful
to weigh the following factors: 67.3aUpon becoming a Bahá'í
ones whole life is, or should become devoted to the progress
of the Cause of God, and every talent or faculty he possesses
is ultimately committed to this overriding life objective.
Within this framework he must consider, among other things,
whether by continuing his education now he can be a more
effective pioneer later, or alternatively whether the urgent
need for pioneers, while possibilities for teaching are still
open, outweighs an anticipated increase in effectiveness. This
is not an easy decision, since oftentimes the spirit which
prompts the pioneering offer is more important than one's
academic attainments.
67.3b
One's liability for military service may be a factor in timing
the offer of pioneer service.
+143
One may have outstanding obligations to others, including
those who 67.3c may be dependent on him for support.
It may be possible to combine a pioneer project with a
continuing educational program. Consideration may also be
given to the possibility that a pioneering experience, even
though it interrupts the formal educational program, may prove
beneficial in the long run in that studies would later be
resumed with a more mature outlook.
- The urgency of a particular goal which one is especially
qualified to fill 67.3e and for which there are no other
offers.
- The fact that the need for pioneers will undoubtedly be with
us for 67.3f many generations to come, and that therefore
there will be many calls in future for pioneering service.
- The principle of consultation also applies. One may have the
obligation 67.3g to consult others, such as one's parents,
one's Local and National Assemblies, and the pioneering
committees.
- Finally, bearing in mind the principle of sacrificial
service and the unfailing promises Bahá'u'lláh ordained for
those who arise to serve His Cause, one should pray and
meditate on what his course of action will be.
67.4 Indeed, it
often happens that the answer will be found in no other way.
We assure the youth that we are mindful of the many important
decisions they must make as they tread the path of
service to Bahá'u'lláh. We will offer our ardent supplications
at the Holy Threshold that all will be divinely guided and
that they will attract the blessings of the All-Merciful.
Deepest Bahá'í love, THE Universal HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+144
68 Ridvan Message 1969 RIDVAN 126 [1969 A.D.]
To the Bahá'ís of the World
Dearly loved Friends,
68.1 The continued progress of the Cause of God stands in
vivid contrast to the chronic unrest afflicting human society,
a contrast which the events of the past year, both within and
without the Faith, have only served to intensify. Amidst the
disintegration of the old order the Cause of God has pursued
its majestic course, extending the range of its activities and
influence and accomplishing a further development of its
administrative system. A Year of Remarkable Activity
68.2
Opening with the convening, in the Holy Land, of the Second
International Convention for the election of the Universal
House of Justice, the year has witnessed a remarkable
activity in the Cause. The most significant and far-reaching
development was undoubtedly the appointment of the eleven
Continental Boards of Counselors, which fulfilled the goal of
the Nine Year Plan calling for the development of the
Institution of the Hands of the Cause of God with a view to
the extension into the future of its appointed functions of
protection and propagation. This step, taken after full
consultation with the Hands of the Cause, has, at one and the
same time, strongly reinforced the activities of that
Institution and made it possible for the Hands themselves to
extend the range of their individual set-vices beyond the
continental sphere, thereby making universally available to
the friends the love, the wisdom and the spirit of dedication
animating the Guardian's appointees. We wish to pay tribute
at this time to the exemplary manner in which the Counselors,
under the guidance of the Hands, have embarked upon their high
duties. The Palermo Conference
68.3 In August, the first
Oceanic Bahá'í Conference, held in Palermo, commemorated
Bahá'u'lláh's voyage on the Mediterranean Sea on His way to
the Most Great Prison. Attendants at this Conference came
immediately afterwards to the Qiblih of their Faith to pay
homage at the Shrine of its Founder, and to commemorate with
deep awareness of its spiritual import the long prophesied
arrival of the Lord of Hosts on the shores of the Holy Land.
This gathering of more than two thousand believers presented
an inexpressibly poignant contrast to the actual arrival of
Bahá'u'lláh one hundred years before,
68-1. The Qiblih (point of adoration) is the place toward
which the faithful turn in prayer. The Qiblih for Bahá'ís is
the Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh at Bahji, outside of Akka.
+145
rejected by the rulers of this earth and derided by the local
populace. Such is the conquering power of His Message, such
is the undefeatable might of the King of Kings. That same
message is now being proclaimed by His followers from end to
68.4 end of the world. Already one hundred and twenty-two
Heads of State have been presented with the special edition
of The Proclamation Bahá'u'lláh, and copies have been received
by thousands more officials and leaders., Taking full
advantage of the designation of 1968 as Human Rights Year by
68.5 the United Nations, Bahá'í communities throughout the
world have not only strengthened the ties between the Bahá'í
International
Community and the United Nations, but have at the same time
proclaimed the Faith and its healing message. In country after
country the Cause has been featured for the first time in
modern mass communications media. The volume of this call to
the peoples of the world is increasing day by day and must so
continue, penetrating every stratum of society, until the
conclusion of the Plan and beyond.
Eight Oceanic and Continental Conferences As a stimulus and
aid to this vital work as well as to the promotion of all 68.6
the goals of the Plan, we announce the holding between August
1970 and September 1971 of a series of eight Oceanic and
Continental Conferences, as follows: La Paz, Bolivia, and Rose
Hill, Mauritius, in August 1970; Monrovia, Liberia, and
Djakarta, Indonesia, in January 1971; Suva, Fiji, and
Kingston, Jamaica, in May 1971; Sapporo, Japan, and Reykjavik,
Iceland, in September 1971.
Areas of Progress in the Nine Year Plan A review of the
progress of the Nine Year Plan discloses that great strides
68.7 have been made in the acquisition of Haziratu'l-Quds,
Temple sites and Teaching Institutes, in translation of Bahá'í
literature into more languages and in the incorporation of
Local and National Spiritual Assemblies. The site of the
Panama Temple has been prepared for construction which will
begin as soon as final plans and specifications and the
placing of the contract have been approved.
Formation of Twelve National Spiritual Assemblies As a result
of the accelerated pace of expansion and consolidation which
68.8 has been initiated, and which, if fostered and fed, will
become a full tide of victorious achievement, we joyfully
announce the formation of twelve more National Spiritual
Assemblies, two during Ridvan 1969: the National Spiritual
68-2. The Bahá'í World Center published Bahá'u'lláh's messages
to the kings, rulers, religious leaders, and peoples; of the
world under the title The Proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh; a
special edition. It was presented to heads of state. See the
Ridvan 1967 message (no. 42) for more details. For an account
of the delivery of The Proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh to heads
of state and to humanity in general, see BW 14:204-20.
+146
Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Burundi and Rwanda with its seat
in Bujumbura and the National Spiritual Assembly of the
Bahá'ís of Papua and New Guinea with its seat in Lae, and ten
during Ridvan 1970: six in Africa, the National Spiritual
Assemblies of the Bahá'ís of the Congo Republic (Kinshasa);
Ghana; Dahomey, Togo and Niger; Malawi; Botswana; and Gambia,
Senegal, Portuguese Guinea and the Cape Verde Islands; one in
the Americas, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís
of the Guianas; one in Asia, the National Spiritual Assembly
of the Bahá'ís of the Near East; and two in Australasia, the
National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'ís of Tonga and the
Cook Islands; and Samoa. Thus at Ridvan 1970 the number of
National Spiritual Assemblies will be raised to ninety-three.
Opening the Door of Pilgrimage
68.9 In harmony with the
worldwide growth of the Cause the World Center of the Faith
is also developing rapidly. The pilgrims, the beloved Guardian
has said, are the lifeblood of this World Center and it has
long been our cherished hope and desire to be able to grant
the bounty of pilgrimage to the Holy Land to all who can avail
themselves of it. It is therefore with great joy that we now
find it possible to open the door of pilgrimage to a much
greater number of believers. Beginning in October of this year
the size of each group of friends to be invited will be
quadrupled and the number of groups each year will be
increased so that nearly six times the present number of
pilgrims will have the opportunity each year to pray in the
Shrines of the Central Figures of their Faith, to visit the
places hallowed by the footsteps, sufferings and triumphs of
Bahá'u'lláh and 'Abdu'l-Bahá, and to meditate in the
tranquillity of these sacred precincts, beautified with so
much loving care by our beloved Guardian.
68.10 This increased
flow of pilgrims will greatly augment the spiritual
development of the Bahá'í World Community which now, after
five years of strenuous labor and bearing the laurels of
outstanding victories, is entering the fourth phase of the
Nine Year Plan. The Great Need for More Believers, Localities,
Assemblies
68.11 The great, the most pressing need, at this
stage of the Plan, is a rapid increase in the number of
believers, and a major advance in the opening of the
additional localities as well as in the formation of the
well-grounded Local Spiritual Assemblies called for in the
Plan. This worldwide activity, the hallmark of the fourth
phase of the Plan, answering the tremendous opportunities
offered by the present condition of mankind, will be strongly
reinforced by the continuance of proclamation, is the
essential foundation for the erection of the remaining
National Spiritual Assemblies, and will increasingly
witness to the benefits of international traveling teaching
and inter-Assembly cooperation. Above all, it requires a
sacrificial outpouring by the friends of
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contributions in support of the Funds of the Faith, and the
raising up of a mighty host of pioneers. During the second
year of the Plan the Bahá'í world achieved its greatest 68.12
feat of organized pioneering when a total of five hundred and
five believers arose to settle in the unopened and weakly held
territories of the earth.3 This magnificent achievement must
now be surpassed. The call is raised for seven hundred and
thirty-three believers to leave their homes and settle in
territories of the globe in dire need of pioneer support or
as yet unopened to the Faith. These devoted believers, who
should arise without delay, are needed to settle, during the
fourth phase of the Plan, in 184 specified territories of the
globe: 48 in Africa, 40 in the Americas, 40 in Asia, 18 in
Australasia and 38 in Europe. Although primary responsibility
has been assigned to those national Bahá'í communities most
able to provide pioneers, all should ponder in their hearts
whether they too cannot respond to this call, either by going
themselves or by deputizing, in response to Bahá'u'lláh's
injunction, those who can go in their stead.
68.13 Detailed
information is being sent to National Spiritual Assemblies to
ensure that this vital mobilization of Bahá'í warriors is
accomplished as quickly as possible.
Our Commitment to Complete Victory Beloved Friends, the Nine
Year Plan is well advanced, our work is blessed by the
never-ceasing confirmations of Bahá'u'lláh, and the entire
Bahá'í World Community is committed to complete victory. That
happy consummation, now faintly discernible on the far
horizon, will be reached through hard work, realistic
planning, sacrificial deeds, intensification of the teaching
work and, above all, through constant endeavor on the part of
every single Bahá'í to conform his inner life to that glorious
ideal set for mankind by Bahá'u'lláh and exemplified by
'Abdu'l-Bahá. In contemplating the Master's divine example we
may well reflect that His life and deeds were not acted to a
pattern of expediency, but were the inevitable and spontaneous
expression of His inner self. We, likewise, shall act
according to His example only as our inward
spirits, growing and maturing through the disciplines of
prayer and practice of the Teachings, become the wellsprings
of all our attitudes and actions. This will promote the
accomplishment of God's purpose; this will ensure the triumph
of His Faith and enable us to build up the present motion of
the Cause into a grand momentum whose force will carry the
community of the Most Great Name to glorious victory in 1973
and onwards to the as yet unapprehended vistas of the Most
Great Peace.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
68-3. April 1965-April 1966.
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69 Guidance on Self-Defense 26 MAY 1969
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Canada
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
69.1 We have reviewed your letter of April 11th, asking about
the teachings of the Faith on self-defense and any guidance
on individual conduct in the face of increasing civil disorder
in North American cities.
69.2 From the texts you already have
available it is clear that BAYOU has stated that it is
preferable to be killed in the path of God's good pleasure
than to kill, and that organized religious attack against
Bahá'ís should never turn into any kind of warfare, as this
is strictly prohibited in our Writings.
69.3 A hitherto
untranslated Tablet from Abdu'l-Baha, however, points out that
in the case of attack by robbers and highwaymen, a Bahá'í
should not surrender himself, but should try, as far as
circumstances permit, to defend himself, and later on lodge
a complaint with the government authorities. In a letter
written on behalf of the Guardian, he also indicates that in
an emergency when there is no legal force at hand to appeal
to, a Bahá'í is justified in defending his life. In another
letter the Guardian has further pointed out that the assault
of an irresponsible assailant upon a Bahá'í should be resisted
by the Bahá'í, who would be justified, under such
circumstances, in protecting his life.
69.4 The House of
Justice does not wish at the present time to go beyond the
guidelines given in the above-mentioned statements. The
question is basically a matter of conscience, and in each case
the Bahá'í involved must use his judgment in determining when
to stop in self-defense lest his action deteriorate into
retaliation.
69.5 Of course the above principles apply also
in cases when a Bahá'í finds himself involved in situations
of civil disorder.
70.1 We have, however, advised the National
Spiritual Assembly of the United States that under the present
circumstances in that country it is preferable that Bahá'ís
do not buy nor own arms for their protection or the protection
of their families.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
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70 New Appointments to Continental Boards of Counselors 10
JULY 1969
To National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
With great joy we announce that we have decided to increase
the total number of members of the Continental Boards of
Counselors for the Protection and Propagation of the Faith to
thirty-eight by adding John McHenry III to the Continental
Board of Counselors in North East Asia and Mas'ud Khamsi to
the Continental Board of Counselors in South America, raising
the number of Counselors on each Board to three and four,
respectively. We also rejoice to announce the appointment of
Mrs. Shirin Boman to the
70.2 Continental Board of Counselors
of Western Asia to fill a vacancy on that Board. The devoted
efforts of all eleven Continental Boards of Counselors during
70.3 the first year of their service to the Faith of
Bahá'u'lláh have been most exemplary and praiseworthy. We are
deeply grateful for the loyalty, steadfastness and devotion
which have characterized the activities of all members in
reinforcing the vitally important work of the Hands of the
Cause of God.
71.1 Please share these glad tidings with the
friends. 70.4
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
71 Formation of an Additional National Spiritual Assembly
during Ridvan 1970 ii AUGUST 1969
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
In the brief space of time following the announcement of the
formation of six new National Spiritual Assemblies in
Africa next Ridvan, the succession of victories, resulting
from the prodigious efforts
exerted by the devoted friends, impels us to announce that a
seventh National Spiritual Assembly will be formed in Africa
at Ridvan, 1970. The new National Spiritual Assembly including
Congo (Brazzaville), Chad, Central African Republic and Gabon,
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will have its seat in Bangui. This will leave Uganda with its
own separate National Spiritual Assembly.
71.2 Please share
this joyous news with the believers. We know the friends
throughout the world join us in our supplications for the
continued, uninterrupted prosecution and speedy fulfillment
of the goals, terminating in the ultimate triumph of the Cause
of Bahá'u'lláh.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
72 Work of Continental Boards of Counselors and Their
Auxiliary Board Members I OCTOBER 1969 To the Continental
Boards of Counselors and National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
72.1 A number of questions have been raised concerning the
work of the Counselors and Auxiliary Board members, and it has
been suggested that Auxiliary Board members be permitted to
work regularly with National Spiritual Assemblies and national
committees. We have carefully considered again the various
factors involved and have decided that we must uphold the
principle that such direct consultations should be exceptional
rather than the rule. Spiritual Assemblies and Auxiliary Board
Members: A Clarification of Roles
72.2 It is the
responsibility of Spiritual Assemblies, assisted by their
committees, to organize and direct the teaching work, and in
doing so they must, naturally, also do all they can to
stimulate and inspire the friends. It is, however, inevitable
that the Assemblies and committees, being burdened with the
administration of the teaching work as well as with all other
aspects of Bahá'í community life, will be unable to spend as
much time as they would wish on stimulating the believers.
72.3 Authority and direction flow from the Assemblies, whereas
the power to accomplish the tasks resides primarily in the
entire body of the believers. It is the principal task of the
Auxiliary Boards to assist in arousing and releasing this
power. This is a vital activity, and if they are to be able
to perform it adequately they must avoid becoming involved in
the work of administration. For example, when Auxiliary Board
members arouse believers to pioneer, any believer who
expresses his desire to do so should be referred to the
appropriate committee which will then organize the project.
Counselors and Auxiliary
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Board members should not, themselves, organize pioneering or
travel teaching projects. Thus it is seen that the Auxiliary
Boards should work closely with the grass roots of the
community: the individual believers, groups and Local
Spiritual Assemblies, advising, stimulating and assisting
them. The Counselors are responsible for stimulating,
counseling and assisting National Spiritual Assemblies, and
also work with individuals, groups and Local Assemblies.
72.4 It
is always possible, of course, for Counselors to depute an
Auxiliary Board member to meet with a National Spiritual
Assembly for a particular purpose, but this should not become
a regular practice. Similarly, if the National Spiritual
Assembly agrees, it may be advisable for an Auxiliary Board
member to meet occasionally with a national committee to
clarify the situation in the area and share information and
ideas thoroughly. But this also should not become regular.
Were it to do so there would be grave danger of inhibiting the
proper working of these two institutions, vitiating and
undermining the collaboration that must essentially exist
between the Continental Boards of Counselors and National
Spiritual Assemblies. It would diffuse the energies and time
of the Auxiliary Board members through their becoming involved
in the administration of teaching.
72.5 It could lead to the
Auxiliary Board member's gradually taking over the direction
of the national committee, usurping the function of the
National Assembly, or to his becoming merely a traveling
teacher sent hither and thither at the direction of the
committee or National Assembly.
Sharing Information, Reports, and Recommendations It is, of
course vital that information be shared fully and promptly,
as has been explained in the compilation on the work of
Auxiliary Board members that was circulated on March 25, 1969.
The ways of ensuring this should be worked out by the
Counselors and National Spiritual Assemblies and methods may
vary from area to area. Reports and recommendations for
action, however, are quite different. Auxiliary Board members
should send theirs to the Counselors and not, to National
Assemblies or national committees directly. It is possible
that the Counselors may reject or modify the recommendation;
or, if they accept it and pass it on to the National Spiritual
Assembly, the National Assembly may decide to refuse it.
72.7 For
an Auxiliary Board member to make recommendations directly to
a national committee would lose the benefit of knowledge and
experience in a wider field than that of which the Auxiliary
Board member is aware, and would short-circuit and undermine
the authority of both the Counselors and the National
Assembly.
Advice-The Province of Counselors and Auxiliary Board
Similarly, although an Auxiliary Board member can and should
receive information from the National Assemblies and
national committees, his primary source of information about
the community should be his own direct
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contacts with Local Spiritual Assemblies, groups and
individual
believers. In this way the Counselors as well as the National
Spiritual Assemblies have the benefit of two independent
sources of information about the community: through the
Auxiliary Board members on the one hand, and through the
national committees on the other.
72.8 Assemblies sometimes
misunderstand what is meant by the statement that Counselors
and Auxiliary Board members are concerned with the teaching
work and not with administration. It is taken to mean that
they may not give advice on administrative matters. This is
quite wrong. One of the things that Counselors and Auxiliary
Board members should watch and report on is the proper working
of administrative institutions. The statement that they do not
have anything to do with administration means, simply, that
they do not administer. They do not direct or organize the
teaching work nor do they adjudicate in matters of personal
conflict or personal problems. All these activities fall
within the sphere of responsibility of the Spiritual
Assemblies. But if an Auxiliary Board member finds a Local
Spiritual Assembly functioning incorrectly he should call its
attention to the appropriate Texts; likewise if, in his work
with the community, an Auxiliary Board member finds that the
teaching work is being held up by inefficiency of national
committees, he should
report this in detail to the Counselors who will then decide
whether to refer it to the National Spiritual Assembly
concerned. Similarly, if the Counselors find that a National
Spiritual Assembly is not functioning properly, they should
not hesitate to consult with the National Spiritual Assembly
about this in a frank and loving way.
72.9 It is the Spiritual
Assemblies who plan and direct the work, but these plans
should be well known to the Counselors and Auxiliary Board
members, because one of the ways in which they can assist the
Assemblies is by urging the believers continually to support
the plans of the Assemblies. If a National Spiritual Assembly
has adopted one goal as preeminent in a year, the Auxiliary
Board members should bear this in mind in all their contacts
with the believers and should direct their attention to the
plans of the National Assembly, and stimulate them to
enthusiastically support them.
72.10 The Counselors in each
continental zone have wide latitude in the carrying out of
their work. Likewise they should give to each Auxiliary Board
member considerable freedom of action within his own allocated
area. Although the Counselors should regularly direct the work
of the Auxiliary Board members, the latter should realize that
they need not wait for direction; the nature of their work is
such that they should be continually engaged in it according
to their own best judgment, even if they are given no specific
tasks to perform. Above all the Auxiliary Board members should
build up a warm and loving relationship between themselves and
the believers in their
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area so that the Local Spiritual Assemblies will spontaneously
turn to them for advice and assistance. We assure you all of
our fervent prayers in the Holy Shrines for the blessings of
Bahá'u'lláh upon the strenuous and highly meritorious services
that you are performing with such devotion in His path.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
73 Appeal to Increase Teaching Efforts amidst Catastrophic
Events of the Day 16 NOVEMBER 1969
To the Bahá'ís of the World
Dear Friends,
In the worsening world situation, fraught with pain of war,
violence and the sudden uprooting of long-established
institutions, can be seen the fulfillment of the prophecies
of Bahá'u'lláh and the oft-repeated warnings of the Master and
the beloved Guardian about the inevitable fate of a lamentably
defective social system, an unenlightened
leadership and a rebellious and unbelieving humanity.,
Governments and peoples of both the developed and developing
nations, and other human institutions, secular and religious,
finding themselves helpless to reverse the trend of the
catastrophic events of the day, stand bewildered and
overpowered by the magnitude and complexity of the problems
facing them. At this fateful hour in human history many,
unfortunately, seem content to stand aside and wring their
hands in despair or else join in the babel of shouting and
protestation which loudly objects, but offers no solution to
the woes and afflictions plaguing our age. Nevertheless a
greater and greater number of thoughtful and fair-minded 73.2
men and women are recognizing in the clamor of contention,
grief and
73-1. The years 1968 and 1969 were racked with war, violence,
terrorism, and civil unrest around the world. Wars raged in
Vietnam and Nigeria; Soviet and Chinese troops skirmished in
a continuing border dispute; Soviet troops entered
Czechoslovakia to quell a movement toward liberalization; and
El Salvador invaded Honduras. Coups de tat toppled governments
in Iraq, Syria, Sierra Leone, Dahomey, the Congo, Mali, the
Sudan, Libya, the Netherlands Antilles, Peru, Panama, and
Bolivia; states of emergency were declared in Spain, Malaysia,
and Chile; violent unrest occurred in West Germany, Spain,
Bombay, Pakistan, Argentina, Kenya, and the United States; and
student protests erupted in Paris, Mexico City,
Czechoslovakia,
Argentina, and the United States. United States and Israeli
airliners were hijacked, and two Israeli airliners were
attacked by terrorists. Moreover, a number of leaders were
assassinated, including Somalian president Abdirascid Ali
Scermarche; U.S. civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr.;
U.S. presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy; U.S. ambassador
to Guatemala John Gordon Mein; and Mozambique Liberation Front
leader Eduardo Chivambo Mondlane.
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destruction, now reaching such horrendous proportions, the
evidences of Divine chastisement, and turning their faces
towards God are becoming increasingly receptive to His Word.
Doubtless the present circumstances, though tragic and awful
in their immediate consequences, are serving to sharpen the
focus on the indispensability of the Teachings of Bahá'u'lláh
to the needs of the present age, and will provide many
opportunities to reach countless waiting souls, hungry and
thirsty for Divine guidance.
73.3 It is these opportunities
which we must seize before it is too late. What is needed now
is the awakening of all believers to the immediacy of the
challenge so that each may assume his share of the
responsibility for taking the Teachings to all humanity.
Universal participation, a salient objective of the Nine Year
Plan, must be pressed toward attainment in every continent,
country and island of the globe. Every Bahá'í, however humble
or inarticulate, must become intent on fulfilling his role as
a bearer of the Divine Message. Indeed, how can a true
believer remain silent while around us men cry out in anguish
for truth, love and unity to descend upon this world?
73.4 We
all know how often the Master and the beloved Guardian called
upon the friends to consciously strive to be more loving, more
united, more dedicated and prayerful than ever before in order
to overcome the atmosphere of present-day society which is
unloving, disunited, careless of right and wrong and heedless
of God. ". . . when we see the increasing darkness in the
world today," the Guardian's secretary wrote on his behalf,
"we can fully realize that unless the Message of Bahá'u'lláh
reaches into the hearts of men and transforms them, there can
be no peace and no spiritual progress in the future."2 The
Necessity of individual Teaching Goals
73.5 The Nine Year Plan
is the current stage in the achievement of that sublime
objective. It is now imperative for every Bahá'í to set for
himself individual teaching goals. The admonition of
'Abdu'l-Bahá to lead at least one new soul to the Faith each
year and the exhortation of Shoghi Effendi to hold a Bahá'í
fireside in one's home every Bahá'í month are examples of
individual goals. Many have capacities to do even more, but
this alone will assure final and complete victory for the
Plan.
73.6 We call upon the friends to join with us in prayer
during the Feast of Sultan that we will all become so imbued
with zeal, courage and enthusiasm that from this day to the
end of the Nine Year Plan
nothing will be able to stay the victorious onward march of
the followers of the Most Great Name.3 May our efforts be
worthy of the blessings and confirmations of Bahá'u'lláh.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
73-2. From a letter that was later published in the
compilation
"Living the Life." 73-3. The Feast of Sultan is the Feast of
Sovereignty, 19 January.
+155
74 Acquisition of Property Adjacent to Bahji 18 NOVEMBER 1969
To National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
Enclosed please find our letter of 16 November 1969 addressed
to the
74.1 Bahá'ís of the World.' Please share this letter
with all believers in your
jurisdiction as soon as possible. After several years of
protracted negotiations with agencies of the Israel
74.2
Government both in Jerusalem and Haifa, an important property
adjacent to Bahji and embracing the Master's tea house has
been acquired. On 17 November we cabled the National Spiritual
Assembly of the United States as follows:
WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS ANNOUNCE SUCCESSFUL CONCLUSION FORMAL
NEGOTIATIONS INITIATED NEARLY TWO DECADES AGO BY BELOVED
GUARDIAN WITH AUTHORITIES STATE ISRAEL RESULTING OWNERSHIP
VITALLY NEEDED PROPERTY SURROUNDING Abdu'l-Baha's TEAHOUSE
IMMEDIATE NEIGHBORHOOD MOST HOLY TOMB FOUNDER FAITH.
ACQUISITION MUCH DESIRED LAND EXTENDING GARDENS BAHJI
FACILITATED THROUGH EXCHANGE PROPERTY DEDICATED SOME
THIRTY-SIX YEARS AGO TO HOLY TOMB BAHA'U'LLAH BY DEVOTED
SERVANT CAUSE HAJI ALI YAZDI. UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
The successful conclusion of these negotiations initiated
during the lifetime of the beloved Guardian was made possible
through the
acceptance by the Government, as even exchange, of an
endowment
property given to the Faith in 1933 by the late Haji Ali
Yazdi. The significance of the specific piece of land donated
by this venerable soul becomes apparent when reading the
following quotation from the IN MEMORIAM article about him in
The Bahá'í World, Volume 9 [624-251:
He will forever be remembered, amongst other things, as the
establisher 74.3a of Bahá'í endowments in the vicinity of Akka
through his gift of a tract of land dedicated to Bahá'u'lláh's
Holy Tomb in Bahji
It is a glowing tribute to the memory of this devoted servant
of the Blessed
74.4 Beauty that his gift should play such an
important part in securing this valuable additional safeguard
for the Most Holy Tomb. Please also convey the news of this
victory to the friends. 74.5
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
74-1. See message no. 73.
+156
75 Comments on the Guardianship and the Universal House of
Justice 7 DECEMBER 1969
To an individual Bahá'í
Dear Bahá'í Friend,
75.1 Your recent letter, in which you share with us the
questions that have occurred to some of the youth in studying
"The Dispensation of Bahá'u'lláh," has been carefully
considered, and we feel that we should comment both on the
particular passage you mention and on a related passage in the
same work, because both bear on the relationship between the
Guardianship and the Universal House of Justice.
75.2 The
first passage concerns the Guardian's duty to insist upon a
reconsideration by his fellow members in the Universal House
of Justice of any enactment which he believes conflicts with
the meaning and departs from the spirit of the Sacred
Writings.
75.4 The second passage concerns the infallibility of the
Universal House of Justice without the Guardian, namely Shoghi
Effendi's statement that "Without such an institution [the
Guardianship] ... the necessary guidance to define the sphere
of the legislative action of its elected representatives would
be totally withdrawn.",
75.3 Some of the youth, you indicate,
were puzzled as to how to reconcile the former of these two
passages with such statements as that in the Will of
Abdu'l-Baha which affirms that the Universal House of Justice
is "freed from all error."2 Seeking the Writings' Unity of
Meaning just as the Will and Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahi
does not in any way contradict the Kitab-i-Aqdas but, in the
Guardian's words, "confirms, supplements, and correlates the
provisions of the Aqdas," so the writings of the Guardian
contradict neither the revealed Word nor the interpretations
of the Master.3 In attempting to understand the Writings,
therefore, one must first realize that there is and can be no
real contradiction in them, and in the light of this we can
confidently seek the unity of meaning which they contain.
75.5
The Guardian and the Universal House of Justice have certain
duties and functions in common; each also operates within a
separate and distinct sphere. As Shoghi Effendi explained, ".
. . it is made indubitably clear and evident that the Guardian
of the Faith has been made the Interpreter of the Word 75-1
WOB, p. 14875-2. WT, p. 14. 75-3. WOB, p. 19.
+157
and that the Universal House of Justice has been invested with
the function of legislating on matters not expressly revealed
in the teachings. The interpretation of the Guardian,
functioning within his own sphere, is as authoritative and
binding as the enactments of the International House of
Justice, whose exclusive right and prerogative is to pronounce
upon and deliver the final judgment on such laws and
ordinances as Bahá'u'lláh has not expressly revealed." He goes
on to affirm, "Neither can, nor will ever, infringe upon the
sacred and prescribed domain of the other. Neither will seek
to curtail the specific and undoubted authority with which
both have been divinely invested." It is impossible to
conceive that two centers of authority, which the Master has
stated "are both under the care and protection of the Abha
Beauty, under the shelter and unerring guidance of His
Holiness, the Exalted One, could conflict with one another,
because both are vehicles of the same Divine Guidance.4 The
Universal House of Justice, beyond its function as the enactor
of legislation, has been invested with the more general
functions of protecting and administering the Cause, solving
obscure questions and deciding upon matters that have caused
difference. Nowhere is it stated that the infallibility of the
Universal House of Justice is by virtue of the Guardian's
membership or presence on that body. Indeed, 'Abdu'l-Bahá in
His Will and Shoghi Effendi in his "Dispensation of
Bahá'u'lláh have both explicitly stated that the elected
members of the Universal House of Justice in consultation are
recipients of unfailing Divine Guidance. Furthermore the
Guardian himself in The World Order Bahá'u'lláh asserted that
"It must be also clearly understood by every believer that the
institution of Guardianship does not under any circumstances
abrogate, or even in the slightest degree detract from, the
powers granted to the Universal House of Justice by
Bahá'u'lláh in the Kitabu'l-Aqdas, and repeatedly and solemnly
confirmed by Abdu'l-Baha in His Will.
75.7 It does not constitute
in any manner a contradiction to the Will and Writings of
Bahá'u'lláh, nor does it nullify any of His revealed
instructions."5 While the specific responsibility of the
Guardian is the interpretation Of the Word, he is also
invested with all the powers and prerogatives necessary to
discharge his function as Guardian of the Cause, its Head and
supreme protector. He is, furthermore, made the irremovable
head and member for life of the supreme legislative body of
the Faith. It is as the head of the Universal House of
Justice, and as a member of that body, that the Guardian takes
part in the process of legislation. If the following passage,
which gave rise to your query, is considered as referring to
this last relationship, you will see that there is no
contradiction between it and the other texts: "Though the
75-4. WOB, pp. 149-50; WT p. ii. 75-5. WOB, p. 8.
+158
Guardian of the Faith has been made the permanent head of so
august a body he can never, even temporarily, assume the right
of exclusive legislation. He cannot override the decision of
the majority of his fellow members, but is bound to insist
upon a reconsideration by them of any enactment he
conscientiously believes to conflict with the meaning and to
depart from the spirit of Bahá'u'lláh revealed utterances.116
75.8 Although the Guardian, in relation to his fellow members
within the Universal House of Justice, cannot override the
decision of the majority, it is inconceivable that the other
members would ignore any objection he raised in the course of
consultation or pass legislation contrary to what he expressed
as being in harmony with the spirit of the Cause. It is, after
all, the final act of judgment delivered by the Universal
House of Justice that is vouchsafed infallibility, not any
views expressed in the course of the process of enactment.
75.9 It can be seen, therefore, that there is no conflict
between the Master's statements concerning the unfailing
divine guidance conferred upon the Universal House of justice
and the above passage from "The Dispensation of Bahá'u'lláh."
The Process of Legislation
75.10 It may help the friends to
understand this relationship if they are aware of some of the
processes that the Universal House of Justice follows when
legislating. First, of course, it observes the greatest tare
in studying the Sacred Texts and the interpretations of the
Guardian as well as considering the views of all the members.
After long consultation the process of drafting a
pronouncement is put into effect. During this process the
whole matter may well be reconsidered. As a result of such
reconsideration the final judgment may be significantly
different from the conclusion earlier favored, or possibly it
may be decided not to legislate at all on that subject at that
time. One can understand how great would be the attention paid
to the views of the Guardian during the above process were he
alive. The Universal House of Justice in the Absence of the
Guardian
75.11 In considering the second passage we must once
more hold fast to the principle that the teachings do not
contradict themselves.
75.12 Future Guardians are clearly
envisaged and referred to in the Writings, but there is
nowhere any promise or guarantee that the line of Guardians
would endure forever; on the contrary there are clear
indications that the line could be broken. Yet, in spite of
this, there is a repeated insistence in the Writings on the
indestructibility of the Covenant and the immutability of
God's
Purpose for this Day.
75-6.
75.13 WOB, P. 150.
+159
One of the most striking passages which envisage the
possibility of such a break in the line of Guardians is
in the Kitab-i-Aqdas itself:
The endowments dedicated to charity revert to God, the
Revealer of Signs. No one has the right to lay hold on them
without leave from the Dawning-Place of Revelation.7 After Him
the decision rests with the Aghsan [Branches] and after them
with the House of Justice-should it be established in the
world by then-so that they may use these endowments for the
benefit of the Sites exalted in this Cause, and for that which
they have been commanded by God, the Almighty, the
All-Powerful. Otherwise the endowments should be referred to
the people of Baha, who speak not without His leave and who
pass no judgment but in accordance with that which God has
ordained in this Tablet, they who are the champions of victory
betwixt heaven and earth, so that they may spend them on that
which has been decreed in the Holy Book by God, the Mighty,
the Bountiful.9
The passing of Shoghi Effendi in 1957 precipitated the very
situation provided for in this passage, in that the line of
Aghsan ended before the House of Justice had been elected.
Although, as is seen, the ending of the line of Aghsan at some
stage was provided for, we must never underestimate the
grievous loss that the Faith has suffered. God's purpose for
mankind remains unchanged, however, and the mighty Covenant
of Bahá'u'lláh remains impregnable. Has not Bahá'u'lláh stated
categorically, "The Hand of Omnipotence hath established His
Revelation upon an unassailable, an enduring foundation."10
While 'Abdu'l-Bahá confirms: "Verily, God effecteth that which
He pleaseth; naught can annul His Covenant; naught can
obstruct His favor nor oppose His Cause!" "Everything is
subject to corruption; but the Covenant of thy Lord shall
continue to pervade all regions." "The tests of every
dispensation are in direct proportion to the greatness of the
Cause, and as heretofore such a manifest Covenant, written by
the Supreme Pen, hath not been entered upon, the tests are
proportionately severe .... These agitations of the violators
are no more than the foam of the ocean .... This foam of the
ocean shall not endure and shall soon disperse and vanish,
while the ocean of the Covenant shall eternally surge and
roar.", And Shoghi Effendi has clearly stated: "The bedrock
on which this Administrative Order is founded is God's
immutable Purpose for
mankind in this day." ". . . this priceless gem of Divine
75-7. "The Dawning-Place of Revelation' is a reference to the
Manifestation of God; here, a specific reference to
Bahá'u'lláh. 75-8. Aghsan (Branches) denotes the sons and male
descendants of Bahá'u'lláh. 75-9. See KA T42. 75-10. WOB, p.
109. 75-Il. TABA 2:598; Star of the West, vol. 4, no. 10, P.
170; SWAB, pp. 210-11.
+160
Revelation, now still in its embryonic state, shall evolve
within the shell of His law, and shall forge ahead, undivided
and unimpaired, till it embraces the whole of mankind."12 Two
Authoritative Centers
75.15 In the Bahá'í Faith there are two
authoritative centers appointed to which the believers must
turn, for in reality the Interpreter of the Word is an
extension of that center which is the Word itself. The Book
is the record of the utterance of Bahá'u'lláh, while the
divinely inspired Interpreter is the living Mouth of that
Book-it is he and he alone who can authoritatively state what
the Book means. Thus one center is the Book with its
Interpreter, and the other is the Universal House of Justice
guided by God to decide on whatever is not explicitly revealed
in the Book. This pattern of centers and their relationships
is apparent at every stage in the unfoldment of the Cause. In
the Kitab-i-Aqdas Bahá'u'lláh tells the believers to refer
after His passing to the Book, and to "Him Whom God hath
purposed, Who hath branched from this Ancient Root."13 In the
Kitab-i-Aqdas (the Book of Bahá'u'lláh's Covenant), He makes
it clear that this reference is to 'Abdu'l-Bahá.14 In the
Aqdas Bahá'u'lláh also ordains the institution of the
Universal House of Justice, and confers upon it the powers
necessary for it to discharge its ordained functions. The
Master in His Will and Testament explicitly institutes the
Guardianship, which Shoghi Effendi states was clearly
anticipated in the verses of the Kitab-i-Aqdas, reaffirms and
elucidates the authority of the Universal House of Justice,
and refers the believers once again to the Book: "Unto the
Most Holy Book everyone must turn, and all that is not
expressly recorded therein must be referred to the Universal
House of Justice," and at the very end of the Will He says:
"All must seek guidance and turn unto the Center of the Cause
and the House of Justice. And he that turneth unto whatsoever
else is indeed in grievous error."15
75.16 As the sphere of
jurisdiction of the Universal House of Justice in matters of
legislation extends to whatever is not explicitly revealed in
the Sacred Text, it is clear that the Book itself is the
highest authority and delimits the sphere of action of the
House of Justice. Likewise, the Interpreter of the Book must
also have the authority to define the sphere of the
legislative action of the elected representatives of the
Cause. The writings of the Guardian and the advice given by
him over the thirty-six years of his Guardianship show the way
in which he exercised this function in relation to the
Universal House of Justice as well as to National and Local
Spiritual Assemblies.
75-12- WOB, p. 156, 23. 75-13. KA Ji2i. 75-14. TB, Pp. 217-23.
75-15.
75.17 WT, Pp. 19, 26.
+161
The fact that the Guardian has the authority to define the
sphere of the legislative action of the Universal House
of Justice does not carry with it the corollary that without
such guidance the Universal House of Justice might stray
beyond the limits of its proper authority; such a deduction
would conflict with all the other texts referring to its
infallibility, and specifically with the Guardian's own clear
assertion that the Universal House of Justice never can or
will infringe on the sacred and prescribed domain of the
Guardianship. It should be remembered, however, that although
National and Local Spiritual Assemblies can receive divine
guidance if they consult in the manner and spirit described
by Abdu'l-Baha, they do not share in the explicit guarantees
of infallibility conferred upon the Universal House of
Justice. Any careful student of the Cause can see with what
care the Guardian, after the passing of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, guided
these elected representatives of the believers in the
painstaking erection. of the Administrative Order and in the
formulation of Local and National Bahá'í Constitutions.
75.18 We
hope that these elucidations will assist the friends in
understanding these relationships more clearly, but we
must all remember, that we stand too close to the beginnings
of the System ordained by Bahá'u'lláh to be able fully to
understand its potentialities or the interrelationships of its
component parts. As Shoghi Effendi's secretary wrote on his
behalf to an individual
believer on 25 March 1930, "The contents of the Will of the
Master are far too much for the present generation to
comprehend. It needs at least a century of actual working
before the treasures of wisdom hidden in it can be revealed.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+162
76 Release of a Compilation on Bahá'í Funds 1 JANUARY 1970
National Spiritual Assemblies of the Bahá'ís of the World
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
76.1 In order to assist the friends everywhere in the proper
appreciation of the importance and meaning of contributing to
Bahá'í Funds, and to remind them as well as all Assemblies of
the underlying principles that must govern the offering and
administration of these funds, we have made a compilation of
extracts from the Guardian's letters on this subject which we
are now sharing with you.'
76.2 You may use these extracts in
any manner you deem advisable, at conferences, in summer
schools, in deepening classes, and in your newsletters and
circular letters.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
77 Noninterference in Political Affairs 8 FEBRUARY 1970
To National Spiritual Assemblies in Africa
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
77.1 For long centuries the African Continent, or rather that
great part of it which lies south of the Sahara, remained
relatively isolated from the rest of the world, untroubled and
scarcely touched by the surging conflicts of the nations to
the north and east. Now, rapidly emerging into the main stream
of international interest, the African peoples, who were
compared by Bahá'u'lláh to the black pupil of the eye through
which "the light of the spirit shineth forth,", are being
swept by the heady enthusiasms of new-found independence, torn
by the conflicting forces of divergent political interests,
their vision obscured by the haze of materialism and the dust
of nationalistic passions and age-old tribal rivalries.
77.2
In the midst of the storm and stress of the battles of selfish
interests being waged about them, stand the followers of the
Most Great Name, their sight attracted to the rising Sun of
God's Holy Cause, their hearts welded together
76-1. See CC 1:529-50. 77-1. ADJ, P. 37. |bUHJ_MSGS_1965-1986
+163
in a bond of true unity with all the children of men, and
their voices raised in a universal song of praise to the Glory
of God and the oneness of mankind, calling on their fellowmen
to forget and forgo their differences and join them in
obedience and service to God's Holy Command in this Day.
77.3 The
Army of the Cause, advancing at the bidding of the Lord, to
conquer the hearts of men, can never be defeated, but
its rate of advance can be slowed down by acts of unwisdom and
ignorance on the part of its supporters. We are writing you
this letter to help in clarifying some of the issues that
have, in the past, blurred the vision of some of the
believers, and caused them to commit errors of judgment which
have retarded the progress of the Faith in their countries.
The Principle of Noninterference in Political Affairs One of
these issues, and by far the most important, is a lack of
appreciation of the implications of the Bahá'í principle of
noninterference in political affairs. We find that
'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi have given us clear and
convincing reasons why we must uphold this principle. These
reasons are summarized below for the study and deepening of
the friends. It is our hope that these observations will not
only help the friends to intelligently and radiantly follow
the holy teachings on this matter, but will help them to
explain the Bahá'í attitude to those who may question its
wisdom and usefulness:
I The Faith of God is the sole source of salvation for mankind
today.
77.4a The true cause of the ills of humanity is its
disunity. No matter how perfect may be the machinery devised
by the leaders of men for the political unity of the world,
it will still not provide the antidote to the poison sapping
the vigor of present-day society. These ills can be cured only
through the instrumentality of God's Faith. There are many
well-wishers of mankind who devote their efforts to relief
work and charity and to the material well-being of man, but
only Bahá'ís can do the work which God most wants done. When
we devote ourselves to the work of the Faith we are doing a
work which is the greatest aid and only refuge for a needy and
divided world. The Bahá'í Community is a worldwide
organization seeking to establish true and universal peace on
earth. If a Bahá'í works for one political party to overcome
another it is a negation of the very spirit of the Faith.
Membership in any political party, therefore, necessarily
entails repudiation of some or all of the principles of peace
and unity proclaimed by Bahá'u'lláh. As 'Abdu'l-Bahá stated:
"Our party is God's party-we don't belong to any party.",
77-2. Quoted in Shoghi Effendi, letter dated 15 July 1955 to
the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Central
America.
+164
77.4c If a Bahá'í were to insist on his right to support a
certain political party, he could not deny the same degree of
freedom to other believers. This would mean that within the
ranks of the Faith, whose primary mission is to unite all men
as one great family under God, there would be Bahá'ís opposed
to each other. Where, then, would be the example of unity and
harmony which the world is seeking?
77.4d If the institutions
of the Faith, God forbid, became involved in politics, the
Bahá'ís would find themselves arousing antagonism instead of
love. If they took one stand in one country, they would be
bound to change the views of the people in another country
about the aims and purposes of the Faith. By becoming involved
in political disputes, the Bahá'ís instead of changing the
world or helping it, would themselves be lost and destroyed.
The world situation is so confused and moral issues which were
once clear have become so mixed up with selfish and battling
factions, that the best way Bahá'ís can serve the highest
interests of their country and the cause of true salvation for
the world, is to sacrifice their political pursuits and
affiliations and wholeheartedly and fully support the divine
system of Bahá'u'lláh.
77.4e The Faith is not opposed to the
true interests of any nation, nor is it against any party or
faction. It holds aloof from all controversies and transcends
them all, while enjoining upon its followers loyalty to
government and a sane patriotism. This love for their country
the Bahá'ís show by serving its well-being in their daily
activity, or by working in the administrative channels of the
government instead of through party politics or in diplomatic
or political posts. The Bahá'ís may, indeed are encouraged to,
mix with all strata of society, with the highest authorities
and with leading personalities as well as with the mass of the
people, and should bring the knowledge of the Faith to them;
but in so doing they should strictly avoid becoming
identified, or identifying the Faith, with political pursuits
and party programs.
77.5 So vital is this principle of
noninterference in political matters, which must govern the
acts and words of Bahá'ís in every land, that Shoghi Effendi
has written that "Neither the charges which the uninformed and
the
malicious may be led to bring against them, nor the
allurements of honors and rewards" would ever induce the true
believers to deviate from this path, and that their words and
conduct must proclaim that the followers of Bahá'u'lláh "are
actuated by no selfish ambition, that they neither thirst for
power, nor mind any wave of unpopularity, of distrust or
criticism, which a strict adherence to their standards might
provoke."3
77-3.
77.6 WOB, pp. 66-67
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"Difficult and delicate though be our task," he continues, 11
the sustaining power of Bahá'u'lláh and of His Divine
guidance will assuredly assist us if we follow steadfastly in
His way, and strive to uphold the integrity of His laws.
77.7 The
light of His redeeming grace, which no earthly power can
obscure, will if we persevere, illuminate our path, as we
steer our course amid the snares and pitfalls of a troubled
age, and will enable us to discharge our duties in a manner
that would redound to the glory and the honor of His blessed
Name."4
The Problem of Tribalism The second issue which causes
difficulties for the African friends in these days is the
matter of tribalism. As Bahá'ís they are convinced that
mankind is one and must be viewed as one entity, yet, as
members of their respective tribes, they find themselves
expected by their non-Bahá'í brothers to give their first
loyalty to, and even aggressively pursue the interests of
their tribe. They live, moreover, in an atmosphere which is
only too often one of mistrust, fear and even hatred against
the members of other tribes. The Bahá'í attitude in such a
situation is clearly set forth in the Writings.
77.8 As
Bahá'ís we are attached to our tribes and clans, just as we
are to our families and, on a larger scale, to our nations,
but we do not allow this attachment to conflict with our wider
loyalty to humanity. The followers of the Faith, the Guardian
has clearly stated, will not hesitate to subordinate every
particular interest, be it personal, regional or national, to
the overriding interests of the generality of mankind, knowing
full well that in a world of interdependent peoples and
nations the advantage of the part is best to be reached by the
advantage of the whole, and that no lasting result can be
achieved by any of the component parts if the general
interests of the entity itself are neglected."5 In further
elucidating this theme he has written: "Let there be no
Misgivings as to the animating purpose of the worldwide Law
of Bahá'u'lláh.... It does not ignore nor does it attempt to
suppress the diversity of ethnical origins, of climate, of
history, of language and tradition, of thought and habit, that
differentiate the peoples and nations of the world. It calls
for a wider loyalty, for a larger aspiration than any that has
animated the human race. It insists upon the subordination of
national impulses and interests to the imperative claims of
a unified world. It repudiates excessive centralization on one
hand, and disclaims all attempts at uniformity on the other.
Its watchword is unity in diversity ... 116
77-4. WOB, p. 67. 77-5- PDIC, v. 77-6. WOB, pp. 41-42
+166
The Example of a Unified Community
77.10 In these days when tribal tensions are increasing in
Africa the friends should be vigilant lest any trace of
prejudice or hatred, God forbid, may enter their midst. On the
contrary, they should endeavor to bring into the Faith an ever
larger representation of the various tribes in each country,
and through complete lack of prejudice as well as through the
love that Bahá'ís have for each other and for their non-Bahá'í
neighbors, demonstrate to their countrymen what the Word of
God can do. They will thus provide, for the scrutiny of the
leaders and rulers of their countries, a shining example of
a unified community, working together in full concord and
harmony, demonstrating a hope that is attainable, and a
pattern worthy to be emulated.
77.11 To discriminate against
any tribes because they are in a minority is a violation of
the spirit that animates the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh. As
followers of God's Holy Faith it is our obligation to protect
the just interests of any minority element within the Bahá'í
community. In fact in the administration of our Bahá'í
affairs, representatives of minority groups are not only
enabled to enjoy equal rights and privileges, but they are
even favored and accorded priority. Bahá'ís should be careful
never to deviate from this noble standard, even if the course
of events or public opinion should bring pressure to bear upon
them.
77.12 The principles in the Writings are clear, but
usually it is when these principles are applied that questions
arise. In all cases where the correct course of action is not
clear believers should consult their National Spiritual
Assembly who will exercise their judgment in advising the
friends on the best course to follow.
77.13 It is the hope and
prayer of the Universal House of justice that National
Spiritual Assemblies in Africa will, in full collaboration
with the Continental Boards of Counselors and Auxiliary Boards
in their areas, act as loving shepherds to the divine flock
in that mighty Continent, protect the friends from the evil
influences surrounding them, guide them in the true and right
path, and assist them to attain a continuously deeper
understanding, a firmer conviction and a more consuming love'
for the Cause they are so devotedly seeking to promote and
serve.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
+167
78 Attainment of Consultative Status with the United Nations
Economic and Social Council 18 FEBRUARY 1970
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
JOYFULLY ANNOUNCE BAHA'I WORLD ATTAINMENT CONSULTATIVE STATUS
UNITED
78.1 NATIONS ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COUNCIL THEREBY
FULFILLING LONG CHERISHED HOPE BELOVED GUARDIAN AND WORLD
CENTER GOAL NINE YEAR PLAN.1 SUSTAINED PERSISTENT EFFORTS MORE
THAN TWENTY YEARS ACCREDITED REPRESENTATIVES BAHA'I
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY UNITED NATIONS DEVOTED SUPPORT BAHA'I
COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT WORLD FINALLY REWARDED. SIGNIFICANT
ACHIEVEMENT ADDS PRESTIGE INFLUENCE RECOGNITION EVER ADVANCING
FAITH BAHA'U'LLAH. OFFERING PRAYERS GRATITUDE HOLY SHRINES.
UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
79 The Spirit of Bahá'í Consultation 6 MARCH 1970
The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Canada Dear
Bahá'í Friends, We have your letter Of 14 January 1970 asking
questions about the decision-making process of Spiritual
Assemblies. It is important to realize that the spirit of
Bahá'í consultation is very different from that current in the
decision-making processes of non-Bahá'í bodies. The ideal of
Bahá'í consultation is to arrive at a unanimous decision. When
79.3 this is not possible a vote must be taken. In the words
of the beloved Guardian: ". . . when they are called upon to
arrive at a certain decision, they should, after
dispassionate, anxious, and cordial consultation, turn to God
in prayer, and with earnestness and conviction and courage
record their vote and abide by the voice of the majority,
which we are told by our Master to be the voice of truth,
never to be challenged, and always to be wholeheartedly
enforced.",
78-1. In a meeting on 12 February 1970 the Committee on
Non-Governmental Organizations, the functional committee of
the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) responsible for its
relationship with nongovernmental organizations, had
unanimously recommended that the Bahá'í International
Community's application for consultative status be approved.
ECOSOC formally accepted that recommendation on 27 May 1970.
79-1. BA, p. 64.
+168
79.4 As soon as a decision is reached it becomes the decision
of the whole Assembly, not merely of those members who
happened to be among the majority.
79.5 When it is proposed
to put a matter to the vote, a member of the Assembly may feel
that there are additional facts or views which must be sought
before he can make up his mind and intelligently vote on the
proposition. He should express this feeling to the Assembly,
and it is for the Assembly to decide whether or not further
consultation is needed before voting.
79.6 Whenever it is
decided to vote on a proposition all that is required is to
ascertain how many of the members are in favor of it; if this
is a majority of those present, the motion is carried; if it
is a minority, the motion
is defeated. Thus the whole question of "abstaining" does not
arise in Bahá'í voting. A member who does not vote in favor
of a proposition is, in effect, voting against it, even if at
that moment he himself feels that he has been unable to make
up his mind on the matter.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
80 Commemoration of the Centenary of the Martyrdom of Mirza
Mihdi, the Purest Branch 25 MARCH 1970 To all National
Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
80.1 In commemoration of the centenary of the martyrdom of the
Purest Branch, which falls on June 23, 1970, we call upon the
Bahá'ís of the world to unite in prayer for "the regeneration
of the world and the unification of its peoples.",
80.2 During
those days one hundred years ago Bahá'u'lláh was enduring His
imprisonment in the Barracks of 'Akka. Upon the tribulations
which weighed Him down was heaped the fatal accident which
befell His young son, His companion and amanuensis, Mirza
Mihdi, the Purest Branch, whose dying supplication to his
Father was to accept his life "as a ransom for those of His
loved ones who yearned for, but were unable to attain, His
presence. "2 In a Tablet revealed in that grievous hour
Bahá'u'lláh sorrows that "This is the day whereon he that was
created of the light of Baha has suffered martyrdom, at
80-i. GPB, P, 348. For an account of the commemoration of the
passing of the Purest Branch, see BW 15:163. 80-2. NIA, P. 31.
+169
a time when he lay imprisoned at the hands of his enemies."
Yet He makes clear that the youth's passing has a far
profounder meaning than His acceptance of the simple request,
declaring that "Thou art, verily, the trust of God and His
treasure in this' land. Erelong will God reveal through thee
that which He hath desired." In a prayer revealed for His son
He proclaims the purpose underlying the tragedy: "I have, 0
my Lord, offered up that which Thou hast given Me, that Thy
servants may be quickened, and all that dwell on earth be
united."3 Thus upon a youth of consummate devotion who
demonstrated such beauty of spirit and total dedication was
conferred a unique station in the Cause of God.
80.3 In your
recalling the bereavement of Bahá'u'lláh upon the loss of His
loved son, and honoring a highly significant event in the
Faith, we leave it to the discretion of the Assemblies whether
they choose to hold special gatherings of prayer. In the Holy
Land at the World Center on Mount Carmel there will be an
observance at the grave of Mirza Mihdi, at which time his pure
example and sacrifice for all mankind will be remembered
through the words of his glorious Father.
With loving Bahá'í greetings, THE Universal HOUSE OF JUSTICE
For your background and appreciation of the nature of the
martyrdom of the
80.4 Purest Branch, we refer you to God
Passes By, pp. 188-89, and to Bahá'í Holy Places at the World
Center, pp. 60, and 70-74, from which the several quotations
above are derived.
81 Ridvan Message 1970 Ridvan 1970
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
BAHA'I WORLD COMMUNITY ENTERING SEVENTH YEAR NINE YEAR PLAN
HAS AMPLY
81.1 DEMONSTRATED ABILITY SCALE HEIGHTS DEVOTION
SACRIFICE WIN ASTONISHING VICTORIES WORLD-REDEEMING
WORLD-HEALING WORLD-UNITING FAITH. AT THIS RIDVAN EXTEND
LOVING
WELCOME ELEVEN NEW NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES NOW FORMING
SEVEN IN AFRICA ONE IN AMERICAS ONE IN ASIA TWO IN AUSTRALASIA
RAISING TO NINETY-FOUR NUMBER SUPPORTING PILLARS UNIVERSAL
HOUSE JUSTICE. MOVED PAY LOVING TRIBUTE HANDS CAUSE GOD THEIR
BRILLIANT SERVICES BLAZING TEACHING TRAILS SURFACE PLANET
UPLIFTING ADVISING ASSEMBLIES FRIENDS ALL CONTINENTS. IN VIEW
EFFECTIVE REINFORCEMENT THIS
80-3- MA, pp. 33, 34.
+170
NOBLE WORK BY ABLE DEDICATED CONTINENTAL BOARDS COUNSELORS
THEIR AUXILIARY BOARDS TOGETHER WITH GROWING NEED AND
EXPANSION WORLD COMMUNITY ANNOUNCE AUGMENTATION VITAL
INSTITUTION THROUGH APPOINTMENT THREE ADDITIONAL COUNSELORS
IRAJ AYMAN WESTERN ASIA ANNELIESE BOPP BETTY REED EUROPE AND
AUTHORIZATION APPOINTMENT FORTY-FIVE ADDITIONAL AUXILIARY
BOARD MEMBERS NINE AFRICA SIXTEEN ASIA TWO AUSTRALASIA
EIGHTEEN WESTERN HEMISPHERE. CALLING FORMATION FOUR NATIONAL
SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES RIDVAN 1971 LESOTHO SEAT MASERU IVORY
COAST MALI AND UPPER VOLTA SEAT ABIDJAN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
SEAT PORT OF SPAIN SOLOMON ISLANDS SEAT HONIARA. NINE YEAR
PLAN ALREADY MARKED GREAT ACHIEVEMENTS PIONEERING PROCLAMATION
RECOGNITION FAITH UPSURGE YOUTH ACQUISITION PROPERTIES
COMMENCEMENT CONSTRUCTION PANAMA TEMPLE DEVELOPMENTS WORLD
CENTER URGENT IMMEDIATE VITAL NEED CONCENTRATE ATTENTION
INCREASE NUMBER LOCALITIES LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES
BELIEVERS FILL REMAINING PIONEER POSTS. LAST RIDVAN CALL
RAISED SEVEN HUNDRED AND THIRTY-THREE PIONEERS MINIMUM
REQUIREMENT. FOUR HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-NINE SPECIFIC POSTS
STILL UNFILLED. TOTAL VICTORY REQUIRES MORE PIONEERS MORE
FUNDS MORE NEW BELIEVERS. HANDS CAUSE COUNSELORS BOARD MEMBERS
NATIONAL LOCAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES EVERY SINGLE FOLLOWER
BAHA'U'LLAH SUMMONED UTMOST EFFORT REMAINING YEARS NINE YEAR
PLAN. ACHIEVEMENT THIS STEP MASTER'S DIVINE PLAN WILL ENDOW
COMMUNITY CAPACITY ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCIES UNDERTAKE NEXT
STAGE IMPLEMENTATION SUPREME PURPOSE BAHA'U'LLAH'S REVELATION
UNIFICATION MANKIND ESTABLISHMENT LONG PROMISED KINGDOM GOD
THIS EARTH. ASSURE ARDENT LOVING PRAYERS HOLY SHRINES.
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
82
Message to Bolivia and Mauritius Conferences-August 1970
AUGUST 1970
To the Continental Conference in La Paz, Bolivia, and the
Oceanic Conference in Rose-Hill, Mauritius Beloved Friends,
82.1 Our hearts turn with eager expectancy to the twin
Conferences now in session in the southern hemisphere. Their
convocation so shortly after the worldwide commemoration of
the Centenary of the Martyrdom of the Purest Branch, calls to
mind that the promotion and establishment of the Faith of
+171
God have always been through sacrifice and dedicated service.,
Indeed, these very Conferences testify to the creative power,
the fruitfulness, the invocation of Divine confirmations which
result from sacrificial service to the Cause of God. Although
both Bolivia and Mauritius are mentioned specifically in the
Tablets of the Divine Plan, the Cause, even thirty-five years
ago, was virtually unknown in those areas; today we witness
the holding of these historic Conferences .2 Little wonder
that South America, whose rulers and presidents were 82.2
addressed by Bahá'u'lláh in His Kitab-i-Aqdas, of whose
indigenous believers the Master, in those Tablets already
referred to, wrote 'should they be educated and guided, there
can be no doubt that they will become so illumined as to
enlighten the whole world,"3 should have exerted a magnetic
attraction upon a number of ardent souls in the northern
continent, eager to serve in so promising a field.4 A band of
heroic pioneers, bearing the Message of Bahá'u'lláh, gradually
penetrated its wide territories, its jungles and mountains.
They were followed by others under systematic crusades of two
Seven Year Plans and the beloved Guardian's Ten Year Plan and
together they became the spiritual conquerors of that
continent.5 The Latin American communities which arose as a
result of their pioneer efforts were described by the beloved
Guardian as "associates in the execution" of 'Abdu'l-Bahá's
Divine Plan .6 May Maxwell, one of the great heroines of the
Faith, attained her longed-for crown of martyrdom in Buenos
Aires; Panama became the site of the sixth Mashriqu'l-Adhkar
of the Bahá'í world, and La Paz,
Bolivia, is now the scene of this Continental Conference.
82.3 The
Indian Ocean, whose furthermost waves lap the shores of the
Cradle of our Faith, upon whose waters the Divine Bab
traveled in the course of His pilgrimage to Mecca, the heart
of Islam, where He openly announced His Mission; whose mighty
subcontinent from which it derives its name was the home and
assigned province of the ninth Letter of the Living; whose
major islands were severally mentioned by Abdu'l-Baha in the
seventh of His Tablets of the Divine Plan, lay, for most of
a century, fallow to the Word of God, a 82-1. The Purest
Branch is Mirza Mihdi, youngest son of Bahá'u'lláh. See
message no. go regarding the 23 June 1970 commemoration of the
centenary of his martyrdom. 52-2. See TDP 6.11, 7-11, 14-7.
82-3. TDP 6.8. 82-4. TDP 6.8. 82-5. One of the goals of the
first Seven Year Plan (1937-44) was to establish a center in
each republic in Latin America and the Caribbean; an objective
of the second Seven Year Plan (1946-53) was the consolidation
and expansion of the Faith throughout the Americas. The two
plans were pursued by the Bahá'ís of the United States and
Canada under Shoghi Effendi's direction. At the beginning of
the Ten Year Crusade (1953-63) regional National Spiritual
Assemblies had formed in both Central America and South
America. 82-6. MBW, P. 146.
+172
challenge to the promotion of His Faith.7 This challenge was
answered by half a hundred Knights of Bahá'u'lláh who, in
response to the beloved Guardian's call left their homes and
wholeheartedly gave themselves to the establishment of the
Cause in those parts. They implanted the banner of Bahá'u'lláh
upon its atolls, its great islands and bordering territories.
Now, in the midmost heart of that huge expanse of sea,
Mauritius, an island whose name was enshrined in Bahá'í
history during the Heroic Age of our Faith as the source, two
years before 'Abdu'l-Bahá's arrival in America, of a
contribution to the purchase of the site of the Mother Temple
of the West, has been chosen as the venue of this oceanic
Conference.
82.4 Not only have the institutions of the Faith
been established in this ocean and this continent, but the
spirit of the New Day, brilliant even at this early dawn with
the light of Bahá'u'lláh's gifts to man, is apparent in the
diversity of the attendants, in the brotherhood of erstwhile
strangers-even enemies and above all in the noble purposes for
which you have gathered.
82.5 Your aim is the redemption of
mankind from its godlessness, its ignorance, its confusion and
conflict. You will succeed, as those before you succeeded, by
sacrifice to the Cause of God. The deeds and services required
of you now, will shine in the future, even as those of your
spiritual predecessors shine today and will forever shine in
the annals of the Cause.
82.6 We share with you the spiritual
delight of these occasions and assure you of our constant and
ardent prayers that your deliberations upon the objectives of
the Cause in your areas and the spiritual fellowship which you
will enjoy will result in immediate and determined plans to
complete the tasks assigned to you ere the rapidly approaching
end of the Nine Year Plan. This Plan is the current stage of
the Master's Divine Plan and its success must precede those
greater triumphs when, as the result of your labors, the
divine outpourings will raise up a vast concourse of radiant
and devoted servants of Bahá'u'lláh who will establish His
Kingdom in this world.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
82-7. TDP 7-10
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83 Call for Pioneers 2 AUGUST 1970
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends, All National Spiritual Assemblies have
been aware of the urgency of our
83.1 Ridvan 1969 message to
the Bahá'ís of the world when the call was raised for pioneers
to settle in territories in need of pioneer support or as yet
unopened to the Faith, and have been cognizant of the emphasis
which was placed on the need for the believers to arise
quickly to ensure the success of the Nine Year Plan in the
pioneer field.
83.2 Since that call was raised, no less than 330
of the pioneer posts in the 184 specified territories in
the globe have been filled, and in a few of those territories
additional pioneers have arrived to supplement the ranks of
Bahá'u'lláh's followers at those posts. As you will note from
the attached list I showing the current status of pioneer
goals, some 417 pioneers must yet arise and settle in the
posts previously assigned. After a recent review of pioneer
needs we find it is necessary to call upon the valiant,
constantly swelling community of believers throughout all
continents to fill yet another 204 pioneer posts where
manpower is desperately needed, in some territories in order
to win the minimum number of Assemblies or localities called
for in the Plan, and in others where vast new mass teaching
areas have been opened to the Faith, thus necessitating
additional reinforcements who must arrive soon if the precious
gains are to be retained.
83.4 These 204 new pioneer goals have
been assigned to specific National Spiritual Assemblies.
Despite the magnitude of this undertaking and the grave
challenge which your communities face in ensuring the
homefront goals, we are compelled to point out that each of
those goals assigned must be considered as a minimum
requirement. Pioneers unable to go to the goals assigned by
their own National Spiritual Assembly should be encouraged to
fill goals assigned to other National Assemblies. Of course
a self-supporting believer is free to settle as a pioneer in
any
country he chooses. We call upon the friends to act promptly
and decisively in this vital international undertaking in
which the followers of Bahá'u'lláh are, in all continents of
the globe, summoned to participate. The time is short and the
effort required is truly formidable.
83-1. The list is too lengthy to include in this volume.
+174
83.6 We shall offer ardent prayers at the Holy Shrines,
supplicating
that the waves of pioneers required to complete this urgent
task of the present hour shall arise and quickly rush forth
into the arena of service.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
84 Release of a Compilation on the Local Spiritual Assembly
ii AUGUST 1970 To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
84.1 As the Bahá'í Administrative Order rapidly expands
throughout the world it behooves everyone associated with it
to familiarize himself with its principles, to understand its
import and to put its precepts into practice. Only as
individual members of Local Spiritual Assemblies deepen
themselves in the fundamental verities of the Faith and in the
proper application of the principles governing the operation
of the Assembly will this institution grow and develop toward
its full potential.
84.2 It is because the principles of
Bahá'í Administration are new to so many who are now being
called upon to serve as members of Local Spiritual Assemblies
that we felt the need to make available in brief form some of
the texts and instructions which apply., No attempt has been
made to put together a complete compilation of all texts from
the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi,
but it is hoped that the enclosed extracts will suffice as an
introduction to a more profound study of the subject, and lead
to a more efficient functioning of Local
Spiritual Assemblies everywhere.
84.3 We call upon you to
consider ways and means of sharing this material with the
friends, and especially members of Local Spiritual Assemblies,
as quickly as possible. In many instances, of course, the
material will need to be translated; in other instances many
of the quotations included in the compilation may already be
available to the friends in their own language.
With loving Bahá'í greetings,
THE UNIVERSAL HOUSE OF JUSTICE
84-1. See CC 2:39- 60.
+175
85 Formation of Seven National Spiritual Assemblies during
Ridvan 1971 1-2 AUGUST 1970
To all National Spiritual Assemblies
Dear Bahá'í Friends,
The following cable has just been sent to Hands of the Cause
Ruhiyyih
85.1 Khanum and William Sears representing the
Universal House of Justice at Conferences in Bolivia and
Mauritius:
PLEASE ANNOUNCE TO PARTICIPANTS CONFERENCE JOYOUS NEWS
DECISION CALL THREE ADDITIONAL NATIONAL CONVENTIONS NEXT
RIDVAN NAMELY SUDAN CHAD AND CONGO BRAZZAVILLE GABON BRINGING
TO SEVEN NEW NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLIES BEING FORMED AT
CLOSE OF SEVENTH YEAR NINE YEAR PLAN. FERVENTLY PRAYING HOLY