Partial Inventory subject and topic list

alphabetical list of subjects in the Library thematic outline of all topics

1. Alphabetical list of subjects from the Inventory online at this site
(color-coded to the PDF)

661 results

Abraham; Isaac; Ishmael absolute freedom; independence of God accounts of dreams and visions acknowledgment of gift; of monetary contribution acquiescence and resignation; contentment acting according to the exigencies of the day; pragmatism Adam; Adam and Eve agriculture alchemy; the elixir alcohol and drugs; tobacco; opium all things are in motion; kinds of motion alteration of the divine will [bada] angels anthropomorphism apocalyptic imagery apostles; early disciples of Christ arcs of ascent and descent Ascension of Baha'u'llah assistance to the poor and lowly; the orphan; the sick astrology and numerology attaining good pleasure of God attaining the life of the spirit attainment to faith in the twinkling of an eye authentication; disposition of the Sacred Writings autobiographical account; narrative of Abdu'l-Baha avoidance of Covenant-Breakers Baha'u'llah Baha'u'llah in Sulaymaniyyih banishment to; life in 'Akka banishment to; life in Adrianople banishment to; life in Baghdad banishment to; life in Constantinople banishments of Baha'u'llah beauty; grace; aesthetics begging; mendicancy; idleness and sloth being a channel for the Holy Spirit in teaching the Cause being a source of light; guidance being a source of living waters in teaching the Cause belief and denial birth control; preventing procreation birth of Christ; purity; virginity of Mary blind imitation [taqlid] bribery and corruption bringing forth results; fruit bringing oneself to account each day Buddhism and Hinduism; religions of the East business; financial; property matters call to acquire knowledge; sciences call to action call to unity; prohibition of disunity categories of Prophets (major; minor; village) celestial spheres [aflak]; planets; astronomy challenging nature; abstruseness of the Word of God changing and unchanging parts of religion characteristics and conduct of true believers charitable associations; humanitarian activities chastisement and requital chastity and purity Christ; Christianity Christian doctrine and practice Christian rejection of Baha'u'llah and the Baha'i Faith church and state in the future civil courts cleanliness and refinement collection; ordering of the Sacred Writings coming-of-age; maturity of mankind compassion; kindness competition vs. cooperation; the struggle for existence composition and decomposition composure; tranquillity; serenity condition of search conduct in finance and business conference of Badasht confession of sins confidence; courage; faith in teaching the Cause confirmations and rewards in teaching the Cause connection between material and spiritual worlds consolation and comfort consorting with all; being kind; loving to all constitutional revolution in Iran consultation consumption of meat; vegetarianism; diet contemplation contention and conflict continual renewal of creation corruption and decline of Islam; of the Shi'ih corruption and renewal; abandoning religious dogmas corruption; misinterpretation of the Word of God courage courtesy; culture [adab] Covenant-breaking and Covenant-breakers creation of the world creativity in art Crimson Ark; the Ark of God criticism and its limits critique of Eastern values; culture critique of Western values; culture critiques of capitalism, communism, socialism crucifixion; ascension of Christ cycles in the physical and spiritual worlds da'iras and haykals day of rest day of Resurrection; Judgement Declaration of Baha'u'llah Declaration; advent of the Bab defending the Faith; protecting the Cause; apologetics definitions of a Baha'i; qualities of a Baha'i degrees of faith; certitude degrees of spirit and the kingdoms of existence demons and evil spirits destruction of books detachment in teaching the Cause detachment; severance; renunciation; patience development of capacity and readiness devotion; sacrifice; consecration in teaching the Cause differences between the Manifestations; station of distinction differences in human capacity disregarding bodily comfort disregarding individual capacity; weakness disregarding own capacity in teaching the Cause dissimulation [taqiyyih]; concealment or denial of Faith diversity an attribute; requirement of existence diversity of thought and belief divine attributes are within all things; every atom divine emanation is ceaseless; eternal divine grace, bounty, confirmations; spiritual capacity divine philosophy and natural philosophy divine unity [tawhid] and degrees of unity duration of the Baha'i cycle; future divine revelations early Christian persecutions; the Pharisees early years; early ministry of Baha'u'llah East and West; communication between East and West education and the development of capacity education of children; moral education educational curricula effort; striving elections elementary matter cannot be annihilated emanation vs. manifestation empty learning; false spirituality encouragement of individual understanding; interpretation entry by troops episodes from the early history of Islam equality of men and women essential distinction of Manifestation of God from others essential vs. actional attributes of God essential; necessary relationships eternal archetypes [a'yan-i-thabitah] eternality vs. origination; creation from nothingness ether; the phenomenon of light eulogies; reminiscences evanescence and eternality; fana and baqa events in the life and ministry of the Bab evolution; human evolution exalting the Word of God in teaching the Cause excellence; distinction executive government; power of execution exhortations and counsels existence and nonexistence; preexistence existence; immortality of the human soul expressions of grief; lamentation; sadness fairmindedness; personal justice [insaf] false claims to divine revelation or spiritual stations family of Muhammad; early figures in Islam fanaticism and hatred fellowship with the wayward and ungodly fewness of numbers not regarded in teaching the Cause fire and light; fire and water firmness in the Covenant forces of light and darkness; integration and disintegration forgiveness; a sin-covering eye; patience and forbearance forgiveness; grace; bounty; mercy; compassion of God four causes four elements four methods of acquiring knowledge four pillars four; five pathways of love free will and predestination; fate freedom of thought and action fulfillment of true potential future of Haifa; of the Holy Land gambling and games of chance generosity [kirama] genuine love and affection in teaching the Cause God as immanent vs. transcendent reality God as personal vs. impersonal reality God's attributes require the existence of objects God's knowledge God's love for His own Essence God's oneness [ahadiyyih and wahidiyyih] goodly deeds; actions grammar and orthography grammatical and other discrepancies in the Sacred Writings Greatest Name greatness and influence of the Cause; of this Day greed; envy; covetousness; attachment to the world Greek philosophers; Greek civilization growth and progress is gradual and according to capacity growth of the Cause Hands of the Cause happiness; joyfulness; joy and sorrow harmony of science and religion He Whom God Shall Make Manifest; the Bab and Baha'u'llah health and healing; material and spiritual healing heat and motion heaven and paradise; heaven and hell heedlessness and ignorance of the people Hermes; Balinus high station of learning high station of teachers of the Cause high station of the arts and sciences high station of the true believer higher encompasses the lower historical episodes and the lessons of the past holy and most holy outpouring [fayd-i-aqdas and fayd-i-muqaddas] Holy Days and the Baha'i calendar holy war [jihad]; violence in the name of God honesty; truthfulness; trustworthiness hospitality House of Justice House of Worship [Mashriqu'l-Adhkar]

human reality created in the image of God human soul as mirror; divine light, attributes within humility; meekness; lowliness humor; jokes hypocrisy identity; relationship of Manifestation of God to God idle fancies; lust and passion idle talk; backbiting; speaking ill of others idolatry imagery in the Qur'an Imam 'Ali Imam Husayn immateriality; ineffability of soul; spirit importance of authoritative interpretation importance of community building importance of prayer importance of reading the Sacred Writings impossibility of true worship of God inability of the Manifestation; Prophet to comprehend God incarceration of Baha'u'llah in Siyah Chal independent investigation of truth; reality infallibility; sinlessness ['ismat] infinity and eternity inmost heart [fu'ad] innateness; early self-awareness of the Manifestations of God intelligible vs. perceptible realities interconnectedness of the teachings interconnectedness; all things involved in all things; chain of being interpretation of dreams and visions interpretation of words and passages in scripture intuition; inspiration Islamic laws and jurisprudence Islamic rituals; holy days; practices; etc. Jabulqa and Jabarsa John the Baptist Judaism; the Torah; the Jewish people Judas justice and mercy justice and wrath of God justice ['adl]; social justice and divine justice kindliness; humility; self-effacement in teaching the Cause kindness to and rights of animals knowledge of attributes same as knowledge of God knowledge of self knowledge; recognition of God labor and management; labor relations; profit sharing lack of formal education of the Manifestation of God language and the structure of reality law of burial and cremation law of cause and effect law of divorce law of fasting law of Huququ'llah law of inheritance law of obligatory prayer law of pilgrimage law of repetition; recitation of the Greatest Name law of transformation and change laws of God; of the Kitab-i-Aqdas laws of marriage and dowry Letters of the Living life and death light and darkness limits of language limits of the intellect lists; enumerations of Baha'i principles literal interpretation literature; drama; humanities; the arts living waters; water of life love and unity love as fire love as fundamental; spiritual foundations of religion love of God love, unity, and fellowship among the friends; in the Cause loving community spirit in teaching the Cause loving one's enemies; returning hatred with love lying and deceit maintainance of degrees in society man is the sum; pinnacle; fruit of creation man's distinction from the animal Manifestation of God as divine physician Manifestation of God as educator Manifestation of God as gardener; cultivator Manifestation of God as mediator Manifestation of God as mirror Manifestation of God as pen Manifestation of God as recipient of divine revelation; Holy Spirit Manifestation of God as sun Manifestation of God as tree of life; sadratu'l-muntaha Manifestation of God does not act of own volition Manifestation of God speaking in the voice of Divinity Manifestation of God the only route to knowledge of God many are called but few are chosen marriage as means of spiritual progress martyrdom of the Bab martyrs and martyrdom Mary Magdalene material and spiritual existence; two books material world a reflection of the spiritual materialism; material vs. spiritual civilization matter; essence; substance and form meaning; importance of dreams and visions meanings of letters and numbers; jafr (gematria) means of establishment of future civilization meditation metallurgical metaphors methods of teaching the Cause microcosm and macrocosm ['alam-i-akbar and 'alam-i-asghar] mind as intermediary between soul and body mind as principle emanation; activity of the human spirit mindfulness; concentration; focus miracles and their interpretation mission of the Manifestation of God in the world moderation; frugality; simplicity modes; manner; speed; size of divine revelation monasticism; asceticism Mosaic imagery Moses Mount Carmel Muhammad; Islam multiple meanings; interpretations in scripture murder; causing physical harm music and singing mysteries and their discovery; the mystical vision mystery of the great reversal mystical themes names and attributes of God naming of children; of individuals nationalism; love of country nature and God's will nearness and remoteness nearness to God necessary and possible being need for an educator need for cooperation; solitary existence not possible newspapers and the media; publications Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) Nineteen-Day Feast Noah non-participation in politics nonexistence of evil; relativity of good and evil obedience to and respect for government authority obedience to; authority of the Manifestations of God occult sciences; psychic phenomena one universal law; attractive power of love oneness or innumerability of the Manifestations of God oneness; unity of religion order; organization; tact; deliberation [tadbir] origin of the soul; the soul as emanation original sin Ottoman commissions of investigation outward and inward meanings pain of love; love as veil pairs in creation; male and female; B and E; agent and patient pantheism parents and children; youth; families parliaments; constitutional government passage of elementary matter through degrees of existence past, present and future of Iran Perfect Man [insan-i-kamil] perfection; imperfection of nature permission for visit; pilgrimage personal instructions petitions to authorities photographs and recordings physical limitations of the Manifestation of God piety; righteousness; fear of God [taqwa] pilgrimage [Hajj] in Islam pioneering; travel teaching plenitude; the pervasiveness of life in the cosmos poems and quotation from poetry power and sovereignty of God; omnipotence of God power of faith; power of the spirit power of imagination; thought; right intention power of love power of prayer power of the Manifestation of God power of the mind over nature power; greatness; centrality of the Covenant power; influence of a single soul in teaching the Cause praise and encouragement praise of Eastern values; culture praise of Western values; culture prayer for assistance; intercession prayer for children and youth prayer for detachment prayer for evening; night prayer for fasting prayer for firmness in the Covenant prayer for forgiveness prayer for gatherings; meetings; assemblies prayer for governments and rulers prayer for healing prayer for justice and fairmindedness prayer for married couples prayer for martyrs prayer for morning prayer for nearness to God prayer for opponents; enemies of the Faith prayer for parents prayer for peace and unity prayer for pilgrims prayer for pioneers and travel teachers prayer for praise and gratitude prayer for prosperity prayer for protection prayer for purity; chastity prayer for sacrifice prayer for service prayer for specific individuals; groups prayer for spiritual recognition prayer for steadfastness; obedience prayer for strength prayer for teaching prayer for tests and difficulties prayer for the Babis; people of the Bayan prayer for the departed prayer for the spiritual progress of others prayer for unity prayer for victory and requital; triumph of the Cause prayer for women

prayer to be recited at table prayers (general or uncategorized) predictions and prophecies preexistence of the Manifestation of God prejudice; racial prejudice; class distinction presence of; reunion with God presence [liqa'] of Manifestation of God is presence of God present and future calamities; war; universal convulsion present and future expansion of arts and sciences; of technology preservation; transcription of the Sacred Writings pride; vanity; laying claim to inner knowledge priestcraft Primal Will and the Word; Remembrance; Manifestation of God primordial Covenant; the day of alast principle of balance; moderation; equilibrium principles of the Faith adopted democratically; not imposed priority over other activities in teaching the Cause procession; appearance of the Word from God proclamation of the Cause (general or uncategorized) proclamation to Christians proclamation to divines; to religious leaders proclamation to Jews proclamation to kings; rulers; prominent individuals proclamation to Muslims proclamation to people of the Bayan proclamation to the people of the world progress and the continual ascent of material civilization progress only takes place within its own degree progressive revelation; renewal of religion promotion of commerce and industry proofs for the existence of God proofs for the existence; immortality of the soul proofs of the Manifestations of God prophecy and fulfillment pure intentions in teaching the Cause purity of heart; sincerity of intention; sanctity purpose of religion in the world (personal and social) purpose; goal of creation Quddus quotation from or interpretation of the Bible Qur'an and Hadith quotation and interpretation race unity; racial issues radiant countenance; bearing the divine fragrance rational arguments realm of similitudes ['alam-i-mithal] realms of being; three realms; five realms rebellion and misdeeds of Mirza Yahya; the Azalis rebellion and sedition; disobedience recompense; reward for belief; right action regarding the receptivity of the hearer in teaching the Cause reincarnation rejection by the people of the Bayan rejection of Muhammad rejection, opposition and persecution relationship between government and people relationship of the soul to the body relativity and complementary truths relativity of religious truth religion as basis of morality; of divine civilization religion as reality; definitions of religion religion as source of love and unity religion as source; stimulus of knowledge and science religious rituals minimized or eliminated rendering assistance to God; victory [nusrat] resurrection of Christ return of Christ; second coming of Christ return of the Manifestations of God review of publications reward and punishment rights of the eldest son; primogeniture ringstone symbol role and station of women role of the Covenant in preserving unity sacred remains; burial of the Bab sacrifice of self; mystery of sacrifice sacrifice of the Manifestation of God redeems the world saddening another soul Saint Peter and Saint Paul Satan; the Evil One scarcity of receptive souls Seal of the Prophets second birth secret societies self-concealment of the Manifestation of God self-description of God; God's self-remembrance self-improvement; self-perfection; discipline selfishness; self-love; egotism; self-indulgence service to others; to the Cause of God serving humanity; working for progress, betterment of the world serving humanity; working for progress; betterment of the world servitude; submission to God; repentance seven stages of creation Shaykhis Shoghi Effendi and the Guardianship Shrines and Holy places silence; fewness of words slavery smoking soul is the essential reality of man soul; spirit after death special knowledge of the Manifestation of God spirit and form in the administration spirit of faith [ruh-i-'iman] spiritual assemblies; administrative matters spiritual baptism spiritual communication; connections of the heart spiritual emotions and susceptibilities spiritual foundations of true knowledge spiritual meetings; gatherings; devotional gatherings; feasts spiritual prerequisites of teaching the Cause spiritual springtime spiritual transformation spiritual warfare; struggle spiritualization of humanity in the future; a new race of men station of the Manifestation of God station; mission; authority of Abdu'l-Baha status of kings; future of monarchy status of material wealth; wealth and poverty steadfastness; perseverance; faithfulness stories; anecdotes study; deepening suffering and imprisonment suffering; rejection of Christ suicide superiority; incomparability of the Word of God superstition supreme tribunal symbolism symbolism of color and light Tahirih [Qurratu'l-'Ayn] teaching one's self first in teaching the Cause teaching the Cause; call to teach teachings as spirit of the age teleology; goal-directed motion testing God tests and trials; sacrifice and suffering thankfulness; gratitude the Adamic cycle and the Baha'i cycle the animal kingdom the Bab; the Primal Point; station and claims of the Bab the Bayan, its laws and their abrogation the Christian clergy the cloud ['ama] the concourse on high the cross and the trinity the divine emanation; the all-pervading bounty of God the economic problem and its solution; voluntary giving the ephemeral and the eternal the first and the last; the seen and the hidden the golden rule; regard for one's neighbor; doing unto others The Holy Spirit the human body the human soul the human soul at midpoint of creation; the isthmus [barzakh] the Imamate; the Caliphate the Kingdom of God [Malakut] the Lesser Peace and the Most Great Peace the lower is unable to comprehend the higher the mind's power of discovery the power of example the power of words; of speech The Primal Will The self-generation of the Primal Will the soul as soil; cultivation of the soul the state of enkindlement in teaching the state of prayer; dynamics of prayer the truth of past religions and sacred scriptures the Twelfth Imam; the Qa'im the Word of God; influence and centrality of theft; seizing the properties of others theodicy; the mystery of evil; of suffering Theosophy things are known by their opposites transcendence; unknowability of God transcending the material condition transience; worthlessness of the physical world translation; publication of the Sacred Writings transmutation of the soul by the divine elixir travels to Egypt by Abdu'l-Baha travels to the West by Abdu'l-Baha true liberty; freedom trust and reliance in God; turning to Him at all times twin duties of recognition and obedience twin Manifestations Twin pillars; interpretation and legislation two aspects of the human soul; the higher and lower natures two kinds of civilization; material and spiritual civilization two kinds of knowledge [ilm and irfan]; sight and insight twofold; threefold station of the Manifestation of God unchastity and adultery uncompounded reality [basitu'l-haqiqah] unity in diversity unity of existence [wahdatu'l-wujud] unity of governments; political unity unity of thought and belief unity; oneness of humanity universal education universal human capacity for spiritual recognition universal language universal peace; world unity universality of the Cause useful occupation; acquisition of a craft; trade; profession veiling [hijab] visitation Tablets walking the spiritual path; spiritual wayfaring; the virtuous life war and peace wealth inequality and its moderation wine as symbol of spiritual transformation wisdom [hikmat] Word of God and human limitations Word of God is its own standard Word of God sanctified from time and place Word of God the cause of creation words vs deeds work as worship worldliness vs. other-worldliness youth and pre-ministry of Abdu'l-Baha zeal and fervor in teaching the Cause Zoroastrianism; Mahabad and Zoroaster

2. Outline of Topics

(only topics with a corresponding entry in the Library are linked below)

Jump to: Degrees and Conditions of Existence Knowledge, Language and Symbol Individual reality and development Collective reality and development Past, Present, and Future

Degrees and Conditions of Existence A. God and the Realm of the Divine Will Two levels of God's reality: essence and attributes; ahadiyyih and wahidiyyih God in His essence God as transcendent and unknowable reality The essence of the Divinity is impersonal God is independent of His creation; good works do not profit Him God is exempt from time [see also The Word of God is sanctified from time] No causal linkage between God and creation Every conception of God is sheer imagination self-description of God; God's self-remembrance [see also The lower is powerless to comprehend the higher] Positive attributes cannot describe the Essence God's perfections are affirmed only to deny imperfections God's attributes are His Own creation God's essence transcends "oneness", "being", "existence" as we understand them God's "understanding" and "freedom" are not at the level of the essence The purpose of worship of God is is self knowledge and transformation God is not a proper "object" of worship Attempt to understand the Essence using the categories of existence is an error No "thinking" or "activity" by the One Essential attributes are unknowable and inseparable from the Essence Actional attributes vs. essential attributes Traditional concepts related to God in His Essence The "Hidden Treasure" The "cloud of unknowing" The "uncompounded reality"; "true indivisible being" [see also First degree: The Most Holy Outpouring (Fayd-i-Aqdas)] [see also First pathway of love: God's love for His own Essence] God in His attributes God as immanent and personal reality The personal God is at the level of the Manifestation, not the Essence God's attributes are the inmost reality of all things: All things are signs of God [see also The bounty of God pervades all things] The attributes of God require the existence of beings God the creator [see also The divine bounty is ceaseless/eternal] [see also Spirit requires matter to act] Knowledge of the attributes is equated with knowledge of God God's knowledge God's knowledge is identical with the realities of things God's knowledge does not require objects God's knowledge does not include particulars God's knowledge surrounds all things without causing them to happen God's knowledge embraces all the doings of men Two levels in the divine knowledge: essential and actional God's unity [tawhid] and the unity of His Messengers Existential oneness and manifestational oneness: Tawhid-i-Wujidi vs. Tawhid-i-Shuhudi [see also The oneness of the Prophets; station of "pure abstraction and essential unity"; tawhid] power and sovereignty of God; omnipotence of God justice and wrath of God The eternal archetypes as primordial names and attributes [see also Second pathway of love: God's love for man] [see also Second degree: The Holy Outpouring (Fayd-i-Muqaddas)] [see also The names and attributes of God are revealed in the Manifestations] Traditional proofs of God's existence The possibility of a rational proof of the existence of God [see also Knowledge and learning, rational argument a path to God] The inadequacy/impossibility of rational proofs of God's existence [see also Limitations of the mind; of human knowledge] The cosmological proof (the unmoved mover) The principle of prior simplicity [see also The universal law of cause and effect] The teleological proof (argument from final causes; from design) Deducing the existence of things from their signs [see also Proof: No effect without a cause] Proof from "voluntary composition" [see also Different kinds of composition: accidental, necessary, voluntary] The pseudo-ontological proof (proof from existence of opposites) The Primal Will The Primal Will/Intellect in relation to God The Primal Will/Intellect is the first emanation of God The Primal Will is non-existent compared to God The self-generation of the Primal Will Traditional conception of God refers to the Primal Will The Primal Will and the Realm of Command The Primal Will identified with the Logos/the Word of God; the source of the Word The Primal Will/Intellect appears in the Manifestations [see also The Manifestation as incarnation of the Primal Will / Primal Point / Primal Word] The Primal Will identified with the First Remembrance [see also The Manifestation as Remembrance of God] The Primal Will in the Realm of Creation The Primal Will is the immediate/efficient cause of creation Relationship of Primal Will to the world is like that of fire to heat [see also The Word of Command=Primal Will is the the cause of creation] Manifestation of the Will of God identical to the manifestation of divine law The Primal Will is the inner reality of all things/pervades all things The Primal Will is a universal reality resolved into infinite forms [see also The bounty of God pervades all things] [see also God's attributes are the inmost reality of all things: All things are signs of God] Sign of the Primal Will in the world is the ether (both active force and recipient) [see also Nature is God's Will] [see also The Manifestations of God] The divine emanation All things emanate from God [see also The three degrees of divine emanation] [see also The Primal Will is the inner reality of all things/pervades all things] [see also The human soul is an emanation from God] The divine emanation/bounty is a necessary condition of existence The first principle does not begrudge to give of itself: plenitude [see also The attributes of God require the existence of beings] The bounty of God pervades all things Every atom reflects God's reality/attributes The divine emanation encompasses visible and invisible reality The infinite power of the dewdrop/the ray/the breath [see also The Primal Will is the inner reality of all things/pervades all things] The divine bestowals encompass believer and denier alike [see also God's attributes are the inmost reality of all things: All things are signs of God] The divine bounty is ceaseless/eternal [see also Revelation has no beginning and no end] [see also The universe is eternal; has no beginning and no end] The divine emanation continually re-creates/regenerates all things [see also Cycles in the spiritual world; the divine springtime] [see also The arcs of descent and ascent] Emanation vs. manifestation Procession/appearance through emanation Procession/appearance through manifestation: as sun in mirror Procession/appearance through manifestation: as tree from seed Limitations/qualifications on the emanation metaphor The Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit is the divine bounty/emanation The Holy Spirit is present everywhere and at all times Holy Spirit "generated" by the Most Great Spirit [see also The Word of God identified with the Holy Spirit] [see also The Primal Will/Intellect is the first emanation of God] [see also The procession of the Logos/Word from God] [see also Love is the breath of the Holy Spirit; illumines the hearts] The Holy Spirit is the mediator between God and the creatures Holy Spirit compared to the rays of the sun [see also The Manifestations are the recipients of divine revelation and conveyors of the Holy Spirit] The Holy Spirit is the fifth and highest degree of spirit [see also The resolution of spirit into finite degrees and stations] Humanity's need of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit's effect upon the human soul and upon humanity The gift of the Holy Spirit; successive descent The Holy Spirit is the cause of quickening/attaining eternal life The Holy Spirit bestows spiritual power; influence The Holy Spirit as source of true knowledge Love is the breath of the Holy Spirit; illumines the hearts The Holy Spirit is the cause of unity/brotherhood [see also The Word of God is the binding force in the world] The Holy Spirit is the cause of collective progress; education; arts and sciences The Holy Spirit bestows confirmations in teaching [see also Teaching and divine confirmations] The Holy Spirit is the source of physical and spiritual healing [see also Heals the spiritually sick] [see also The Word of God transforms/quickens with the spirit of faith; with the living waters] [see also Entrance to the Kingdom; spiritual transformation] Various personifications of the Holy Spirit Personified as a dove Personified as the Maid of Heaven B. The Manifestations of God The exalted spiritual station, sovereignty and authority of the Manifestations The Manifestation as incarnation of the Primal Will / Primal Point / Primal Word [see also The Primal Will/Intellect appears in the Manifestations] [see also The Word of God identified with the Manifestation of God] The Manifestations are qualitatively different from others Their dust is just dust: its importance lies in the association The innateness of the prophethood/knowledge of the Manifestations The infallibility of the Manifestations The sinlessness of the Manifestations Acquired infallibility granted "to sanctified souls" The reality of Manifestationhood has neither beginning nor end; preexistence [see also The Word of God is sanctified from time] The Manifestations are the most perfect among men: unrivaled The "Perfect Man" The complete independence of the Manifestations Their reality surrounds and therefore comprehends all things The Manifestations are the possessors of extraordinary power/knowledge The reality of the Manifestation is beyond human comprehension The Manifestations cannot express all the truth to which they have access The authority of the Manifestations The Manifestations have a physical, a human and a divine station They are educators at three different levels: They create a social order - material education They expand the human mind - human education They are agents of spiritual development and transformation - spiritual education [see also The Holy Spirit is the cause of quickening/attaining eternal life] Their high station reflected in the prohibition on representing/dramatizing their persons The twin stations of unity and distinction in the Manifestations The oneness of the Prophets; station of "pure abstraction and essential unity"; tawhid They are each endowed with all the attributes of God The identity of the Manifestations with God Identity with God not the identity of essence Identity with God refers to their complete self-effacement The "return" of the Prophets understood from the perspective of their unity [see also God's unity and the unity of His Messengers] [see also The Manifestations are representatives of the Godhead] [see also Religion is one in its essence] Differences between the Prophets; station of "distinction" Their differences are due to our limitations, not theirs The two/three types of Prophets They are subject to human frailties and limitations They themselves are unable to comprehend God Station of servitude to God Foreordained measure of revelation Varying perspectives in this station are possible Concealment of own station [see also The greatness of this Revelation; of this Day] The Manifestations as source of divine grace The Manifestations are like the sun in the world of being The Manifestations are the cause of creation; all others receive life through them The Manifestations are divine cultivators/gardeners The Manifestations are divine physicians The Manifestations are divine educators/teachers The Manifestation as Tree of Life; the "Sadratu’l-Muntahá" [see also The Word of God identified with the Manifestation of God] The Manifestations as mediators of divine grace; of the "divine presence" The Manifestations are necessary because there can be no direct route to God The Manifestations are representatives of the Godhead The Manifestation is the uttermost limit of human understanding of God The Manifestations are signs of the love of God [see also The identity of the Manifestations with God] Manifestation of God speaking in the voice of Divinity The Manifestations are the only route to the knowledge of God Knowledge of the Manifestations is equivalent to knowledge of God presence [liqa'] of Manifestation of God is presence of God The Manifestations alone are able to comprehend the Word of God The Manifestations are mediators even in the next world cf: we cannot be sure that this is the only way to contact God The Manifestations are as mirrors reflecting the divine light This reflection is nevertheless only a "mere emblem" [see also The human reality is a mirror for the divine reflection] [see also The Holy Spirit is the mediator between God and the creatures] The Manifestations are the recipients of divine revelation and conveyors of the Holy Spirit Divine revelation is the supreme gift of God special knowledge of the Manifestation of God The personal encounter of the Manifestations with the Holy Spirit The pulsating nature of divine revelation [see also Various personifications of the Holy Spirit] The process of divine revelation The names and attributes of God are revealed in the Manifestations [see also Knowledge of the Manifestations is equivalent to knowledge of God] The Manifestations are pure channels; hollow reeds; do not act of their own volition The Manifestation as Remembrance of God The Manifestation as the Pen of God The living waters flow from their pen; their presence Proofs of the Manifestations Proofs based on who they are Their own selves Their lack of worldly education Proofs based on what they say and how they say it Their revelation; their words Their verses, their Book Their teachings Proofs based on what they do and how they do it Their acting unaided and alone; their deeds Appearance of a single Soul renews God's Revelation Successful proclamation from prison a proof Their proclamations to the kings and rulers Their constancy and openness in proclaiming their Cause [see also The suffering and rejection of the Manifestations] Proofs based on signs and portents attending their appearance Appearance of a herald Signs in the visible world; in the heavens; literal fulfillment of prophecy Fulfilment of prophecy, literally or symbolically; prediction of future events Oppression: inability of seeking souls to find the truth Day of Resurrection not visibly different from any other day Proofs based on their influence in the world; their "fruits" The transformation/transmutation of the souls The sacrifice/martyrdom of those who have recognized The acceptance of illumined religious leaders Their rejection is itself a proof Contrast between their message and the people they were raised up from Non-proofs Miracles are not a proof The believers themselves are not a proof The true criteria with which to judge the truth of the Cause The suffering and rejection of the Manifestations Their ways and words, changes they bring about, are contrary to the desires of men [see also Badá (divine nonfulfillment/alteration)] Leaders of religion are a cause of the rejection of the people The people actually cause the leaders of religion to deny Literal interpretation; misunderstanding of scripture a cause of their rejection The heedlessness of the people The veil of names; of vain imaginations The past is a mirror of the future The Prophets redeem the world through their sacrifice Their tests/suffering are meant to educate us [see also Opposition to the Cause; to the Covenant] C. Metaphysics and Natural Philosophy Natural philosophy and divine philosophy Divine philosophy contrasted with material/natural philosophy Baha'i natural philosophy is shared with the Sufis [see also Two kinds of knowledge: mind and heart; 'ilm and 'irfan; sight and insight] Purpose of divine philosophy: To establish the oneness of humanity Purpose of divine philosophy: To discover reality and to reflect the light of the spirit Purpose of divine philosophy: To unfold the intrinsic oneness of phenomena Purpose of divine philosophy: To prove the existence and immortality of the spirit Purpose of divine philosophy: To free the soul from the chains of the body The Baha'i Cause is not a philosophy or a belief system, but a way of life [see also Religion has a twofold purpose in the world] [see also The spiritual purpose of human existence (descriptive statements)] Regarding the three realms of being; overlapping hierarchies realms of being; three realms; five realms The three realms: God, Command, creation Revelation and creation; earth and heaven; book of creation and written Book The greatest name and the ringstone symbol The three degrees of divine emanation First degree: The Most Holy Outpouring (Fayd-i-Aqdas) Second degree: The Holy Outpouring (Fayd-i-Muqaddas) Third degree: The Universal Revelation (Tajalliy-i-'Amm) [see also The divine emanation] The "Hidden Treasure" tradition: God, love, creation, knowledge [see also The "Hidden Treasure"] The four (five) pathways of love Love defined as attraction to one's own beauty in one of two modes First pathway of love: God's love for His own Essence Second pathway of love: God's love for man Apprehension of God's love for man leads to love of man for man God's love identical to the divine effulgence The Logos is God's overflowing love God's love is the cause of man's creation; of the creation of the universe The love of God sends the Prophets Love manifested throughout the kingdoms of existence: the ground of all things [see also Love is the binding power between the elements] Manifested in Baha'u'llah's mission for world order Third pathway of love: Man's love for God Man's love for/knowledge of God the purpose of creation [see also Knowledge/recognition/'irfan/love/remembrance of God] Knowledge of God equated with the love of God Love as veil Man's love for man a necessary consequence of this [see also Love for God (the third station of love)] Fourth pathway of love: Man's love for man Love people for the sake of God Depends on love for God Fifth pathway of love: Man's love for the light of God within [see also Four kinds of spiritual wayfarers] [see also The divine light/love of God is deposited within the reality of man] [see also Love is the binding power between the elements] Nasut, Malakut, Jabarut, Lahut, (Hahut) Hahut - the paradise of Ahadiyyah Lahut - realm of the Manifestation Jabarut - the Empyrean Dominion Jabarut and Malakut Malakut - the Kingdom of God [see also Entrance to the Kingdom; spiritual transformation] [see also 'Alam-i-Mithal (the realm of similitudes) and the barzakh] Nasut - the mortal world The arcs of descent and ascent The procession from and returning to God The creation of the universe; being, existence, time Existence from nonexistence Absolute nonexistence cannot become existence [see also The relativity of existence and nonexistence, life and death] The universe could not have created itself The universe was called into being from nothingness Creation from nothingness and eternal creation are reconcilable The universe has a cause outside time Essential and temporal preexistence [see also The divine emanation continually re-creates/regenerates all things] Being and existence; necessary and possible being; preexistence Existence itself is an attribute of things Created and uncreated existence/phenomena The unity of existence [wahdatu'l-wujud] Two kinds of being: material and spiritual [see also The relativity of the material and the spiritual] Realities of the intellect/spirit have no outward existence Being vs. existence Genera and categories of existence Infinity and eternity The universe is infinite The universe is eternal; has no beginning and no end Creation is continual and not a one-time event [see also The arcs of descent and ascent] [see also The divine emanation continually re-creates/regenerates all things] [see also The divine bounty is ceaseless/eternal] [see also Revelation has no beginning and no end] [see also The attributes of God require the existence of beings] [see also The reality of Manifestationhood has neither beginning nor end; preexistence] Infinity and eternity are inseparable concepts notes on space and time purpose; goal of creation Traditional concepts related to the process of creation The four causes The seven stages Division and rotation The celestial spheres Nature and its laws; perfection and imperfection of nature Nature defined Nature is God's Will Nature is an intellectual reality; not sensible itself Clinging to Nature "as it is in itself" is an error [see also Nature defined as necessary connections proceeding from the realities of things] [see also Nature defined as composition and decomposition] The universal law of Nature; cause and effect; miracles Nature is subject to one law [see also Evolutionary teleology; motion is progressive, directed by spiritual "forces"] Nature is compelled; has no will or reason All physical things must conform to Nature's laws The universal law of cause and effect [see also All things are involved in all things; the chain of being] [see also The four causes] Condition of causation is resemblance/relation between cause and effect The violation/suspension of natural law through miracles The virgin birth and immaculate conception The perfection of creation / of Nature [see also Infinite diversity a requirement/attribute of perfect existence] The imperfection of Nature, relative to higher degrees Imperfection, death, and sin [see also All things need an educator] Motion, cycles All things are in motion The law of transformation and change [see also Superannuation/abrogation; religious laws change with changing times] [see also The relativity of stasis and change] Kinds of motion Motion towards perfection - the arc of ascent [see also The arcs of descent and ascent] [see also Evolutionary teleology; motion is progressive, directed by spiritual "forces"] Motion around a center Other kinds of motion Motion generated by "heat" Cycles in the physical world; the seasons [see also Composition and decomposition throughout creation] Cycles in the spiritual world; the divine springtime [see also Revelation is progressive, organic, cyclical] "Matter" and substance Origin and foundation of matter is spiritual forces Causal closure of the material Rational soul the substance through which the body subsists Complexity evolves from a single matter in the beginning Elementary matter cannot be annihilated; conservation of existence [see also Proof: Simple/uncomposed elements are eternal] [see also The relativity of existence and nonexistence, life and death] Essence and substance Knowledge of the essence of a thing is not possible: only through its attributes The essence of existence is immutable Universal substance identified with the Divine Breath Agent and patient: dualities in creation Kaf (B) and Nun (E); Mashiyyat (Will) and Iradih (Purpose) The active force and its recipient (fa'il/ayn and munfa'il/ayn) The lord of the species (rabbu'l-naw') Substance and form Male and female; Adam and Eve things are known by their opposites The four elements and the four natures The four humors Spiritual analogies of the four elements Fire and water Ethereal matter The ether as substrate / primary matter The ether an intellectual substance; perceived only by the mind The ether responsible for light Positive and negative powers/charges The mineral spirit: attraction/cohesion; the life of the mineral Alchemy: The transmutation of elements "Spirit": Progressive unfoldment; kingdoms of existence; hierarchy of spirit Spirit is the greatest power; pervades all things Unfoldment and contemplation: the work of the mind [see also The bounty of God pervades all things] The resolution of spirit into finite degrees and stations Differing stations in creation are intrinsic The kingdoms of existence [see also The Primal Will is the inner reality of all things/pervades all things] the animal kingdom The degrees are finite but the perfections are not Spirit requires matter to act The ascent of the atom through the kingdoms of existence [see also Every atom reflects God's reality/attributes] [see also Love manifested throughout the kingdoms of existence: the ground of all things] [see also The law of transformation and change] [see also Evolution and teleology; plenitude] Powers and capacities of higher degrees are cumulative Below the human degree, spirit depends on the composition of the elements Perfections acquired in one kingdom are only manifested in the kingdom above The lower is powerless to comprehend the higher [see also Humanity encompasses the lower kingdoms; is the sum of creation] Transformation across kingdoms is possible only through bounty Perfection within a given kingdom the highest goal: its paradise Transformation across kingdoms is true felicity [see also The grace/good-pleasure of God] Composition and decomposition Composition and decomposition throughout creation Nature defined as composition and decomposition Composition/decomposition an inherent feature of existence [see also Cycles in the physical world; the seasons] [see also The power of unity in all the degrees of existence] Infinite diversity a requirement/attribute of perfect existence Repetition of the same appearance is forbidden Behind the diversity there is a unity of essence Different kinds of composition: accidental, necessary, voluntary [see also Proof from "voluntary composition"] An artificial composition cannot produce life Causes of composition and decomposition All composition must be preceded by a cause Composition not accidental; a divine creative power [see also The law of transformation and change] [see also Love manifested throughout the kingdoms of existence: the ground of all things] Love is the binding power between the elements [see also Love manifested throughout the kingdoms of existence: the ground of all things] [see also Second pathway of love: God's love for man] Composition, affinity, unity give rise to existence, life The principle of balance/equilibrium in nature [see also The importance of balance/moderation] Composition is life, decomposition is death Composition is existence, decomposition is nonexistence [see also The relativity of existence and nonexistence, life and death] [see also The power of unity in all the degrees of existence] All compositions must eventually decompose Decomposition should be gradual to preserve the universal relationships Evolution and teleology; plenitude Evolutionary themes in the Baha'i Writings; the gradual development of the physical world Statements on evolution must be understood in context Left to science to investigate details of man's appearance The origin of all material life is one Physical growth, development and evolution are gradual The appearance of spirit is also gradual Species are phenomenal upon the earth competition vs. cooperation; the struggle for existence Evolution and teleology/potentiality; plenitude Cosmic plenitude: life is pervasive throughout the universe The universe itself is a living thing Evolutionary teleology; motion is progressive, directed by spiritual "forces" [see also Proof from "voluntary composition"] [see also The law of transformation and change] Man potentially existed from the beginning Man's appearance/faith in God is a requirement of nature/purpose of creation Human evolution The gradual evolution of the human form; man emerged from the animal kingdom [see also Two aspects of human reality; the higher and the lower natures in man] Evolution "ends" with man Humanity encompasses the lower kingdoms; is the sum of creation [see also Powers and capacities of higher degrees are cumulative] [see also The human reality is a "lesser world" (microcosm) containing the "greater world" (macrocosm)] [see also All the attributes of God are potentially manifested in man] [see also The "Perfect Man"] Man was always man, not an animal; "species" are conserved Comparison to the embryo Abdu'l-Baha's concept of species Platonic, not biological [see also Transformation across kingdoms is possible only through bounty] Vegetable "species" are also conserved Progress and decline take place only within a species Humanity is the fruit on the tree of existence Capacity and its development; the need for an educator All things need an educator The human world is in need of education [see also The development of capacity] [see also The Manifestations are divine educators/teachers] Without development man is the lowest of creatures The root cause of wrongdoing is ignorance The existence of capacity; differences in capacity All things reflect the attributes of God according to their capacity All human beings possess the latent capacity to recognize God [see also To bring forth those forces latent within the human reality] [see also The purpose of life - in relation to God] Individual capacities/stations differ All have equal rank/station initially Difference in capacity/rank a requirement of the world; of society [see also Infinite diversity a requirement/attribute of perfect existence] Different kinds of human capacity: innate, inherited, acquired The development of capacity The educator must be superior to the one educated Three kinds of education: physical, intellectual, spiritual [see also They are educators at three different levels:] Two kinds of spiritual education; subjective and objective faith Result of material education: arts and sciences, new discoveries [see also Discovery of the arts and sciences through the power of the mind/intellect] [see also Effort increases capacity] Interconnectedness and correspondence; necessary relationships All things are involved in all things; the chain of being The intrinsic oneness of all phenomena Oneness of humanity in spirit; unitive consciousness Interconnectedness is an attribute of perfection The universe is fashioned after the human body Mutual ties are stronger along the arc of ascent As letters and words [see also The universal law of cause and effect] Essential relationships proceeding from the realities of things Religion defined as necessary connections proceeding from the realities of things Nature defined as necessary connections proceeding from the realities of things Fate defined as necessary connections proceeding from the realities of things Love as vital bond inherent within the realities of things True laws of society derived from necessary relationships; from reason [see also The interconnectedness of the Teachings; the Teachings as sphere] Natural law The material and spiritual worlds are connected Example: man and the environment Example: physical cleanliness, health and healing Example: the power of prayer Example: music [see also Origin and foundation of matter is spiritual forces] [see also The soul in the body] The material world is a reflection of the spiritual The material world is only an imperfect reflection; a shadowy image of the spirtual The world unveils the book of its own self Structure of language parallels the structure of creation The physical world is not mute or inert; it tells out spiritual significances The symbolic nature of the physical world The human reality is a "lesser world" (microcosm) containing the "greater world" (macrocosm) The four states (first, last, seen, hidden) are within the reality of man/Man [see also Humanity encompasses the lower kingdoms; is the sum of creation] Relativity [see also Religious truth is relative] The relativity of the immanence and transcendence of God The relativity of subject and object The relativity of cause and effect The relativity of monism and dualism The relativity of the natural and supernatural The relativity of the material and the spiritual The relativity of essential and temporal preexistence The relativity of universal and particular The relativity of existence and nonexistence, life and death [see also Composition is existence, decomposition is nonexistence] The relativity of perfection and imperfection The relativity of stasis and change The relativity of good and evil [see also Imperfection, death, and sin] The relativity of free will and predestination The relativity of the forbidden and the permissible Only route through the extremes is the gaze of the inmost heart [see also The relativity of knowledge; of spiritual perspective] D. Soul, Mind, Spirit Definitions and issues of terminology regarding the human soul, mind and spirit The three aspects of the human reality: body, mind, spirit/soul/(heart) [see also Mind is the intermediary between soul and body] Human spirit = rational soul Lack of clarity in present translations "spirit" and "soul" can be meant in more than one sense There is one single reality, which manifests different powers Proofs of the existence/immortality of the human soul The importance of belief in immortality The possibility of a proof for the soul's existence Proof: Simple/uncomposed elements are eternal Animal spirit is not immortal Proof: Changes to the body do not affect the soul Proof: The world of dreams [see also The dream state: spirit acting apart from matter] Proof: The soul acts/imagines independently of the body Proof: No effect without a cause [see also Man's distinction from the animal kingdom; resists nature; has power beyond nature] [see also The universal law of cause and effect] Proof: The soul is beyond change and form; can conceive multiple forms simultaneously Proof: An intellectual reality; has no place Proof: The part cannot possess what the whole lacks Proof: Proof from existence of consciousness Proof: The self-abnegating behavior of the Prophets Proof from opposites Essential properties of the soul The soul/spirit is the essential reality of man The soul is an intelligible reality; a non-material substance The essence of the soul cannot be comprehended [see also Proof: Simple/uncomposed elements are eternal] The soul's relationship to God The human soul is an emanation from God The human soul is the divine self-description; self-remembrance The divine light/love of God is deposited within the reality of man Man is made in the image of God - imago dei The human heart is God's throne; a divine trust The innate nobility of man The human reality is a mirror for the divine reflection The Holy Spirit is reflected in man's heart like the sun in a mirror All the attributes of God are potentially manifested in man [see also Every atom reflects God's reality/attributes] [see also Appearance of the Word is like the image of the sun in a mirror] The soul in the body; homo duplex Two aspects of human reality; the higher and the lower natures in man Not two realities but two tendencies of one reality The human spirit at the "barzakh": the midpoint of the arcs of ascent and descent [see also 'Alam-i-Mithal (the realm of similitudes) and the barzakh] The relationship between soul/spirit and body/matter The body depends on the soul/mind; the latter is its motive power The rational soul is the substance upon which the body depends The soul appears at conception The spirit surrounds the body The soul does not literally enter/penetrate the body The powers of the spirit appear in the body in a gradual manner The spirit is in the body as the sun shines in a mirror Soul is to body as fruit is to seed/tree The body must be sound for the mind to manifest itself with full effect The physical heart is the link between spirit and matter[?] The body is like the net and the soul like the ocean Body as word and spirit as meaning [see also Mind is the intermediary between soul and body] The dream state: spirit acting apart from matter [see also 'Alam-i-Mithal (the realm of similitudes) and the barzakh] [see also Proof: The world of dreams] No authority for dreams vs. revealed ordinances Three kinds of dreams; interpretation of dreams The wisdom of the soul's connection to the body The soul must traverse all conditions Perfections of God must appear in the world The body is a magnet for the spirit; spirit appears through composition of elements Two kinds of knowledge: mind and heart; 'ilm and 'irfan; sight and insight [see also Divine philosophy contrasted with material/natural philosophy] The human mind/intellect: its station, powers and limitations Mind is principle emanation/activity of the human spirit Mind is the intermediary between soul and body The connection of the mind with the brain Outward and inward powers; the "common faculty" The power of the mind: discovers the realities, mysteries of things power of the mind over nature Understanding through encompassing Understanding through reflection Understanding through similarity/likeness Understanding through simile and metaphor Discovery of the arts and sciences through the power of the mind/intellect Thoughts are a boundless sea The mind must be focused on a single point to achieve results Examination of premises key to investigation of a subject Example: Astronomy The high station of knowledge and learning; of arts, crafts and sciences Exhortations to acquire knowledge and the sciences Knowledge and learning, rational argument a path to God Philosophy a sound branch of learning The learned; requirements of the spiritually learned Linked to prohibition on alcohol and drugs The role of experts [see also The Holy Spirit is the cause of collective progress; education; arts and sciences] Limitations of the mind; of reason; of human knowledge Knowledge as veil True recognition transcends rational proof; human learning Book learning must be joined to the love of God [see also The acquisition of knowledge should have a spiritual foundation] Intuitive powers are also fallible Man-made arts and sciences are not the true standard The mind needs assistance from a higher power to make discoveries Useless theologizing; knowledge that begins and ends in words Purely materialistic description inadequate Classical structures of logic inadequate [see also Knowledge of the essence of a thing is not possible: only through its attributes] [see also God as transcendent and unknowable reality] Free will and fate Man's distinction from the animal kingdom; resists nature; has power beyond nature [see also Proof: No effect without a cause] Man has free will Fate and predestination Defined as interconnectedness All things are a result of God's will The foreknowledge of God does not cause the realization of a thing Nothing is accidental Decreed vs. conditional fate Man is compelled in certain things Whatever comes to pass benefits the faithful Apparent conflict between free will and fate is due to the limitations of reason The "middle way"; fate and free will as warp and weft The soul after death Impossible to comprehend the nature of life after death The importance of the moment of death The continuing influence of the soul after death A perpetual and unchanging world No gender in the next world Free will after death Judgement before God; being asked of one's doings The chastisement/punishment of God One's spiritual punishment is self-inflicted The souls of the deniers Mercy and chastisement of God exist in all the worlds of God Eternal existence, but not eternal life Respect for the body after death Death as cause of joy [see also The procession from and returning to God] Status of parents, kin The hereafter as idea to be transcended Perspectives on the afterlife Knowledge, Language and Symbol A. Regarding human knowledge: divine philosophy defined; the investigation of reality The independent investigation of reality [see also Limitations of the mind; of human knowledge] [see also Knowledge and learning, rational argument a path to God] [see also Justice, fairmindedness] [see also The condition of search/striving] The harmony of science/reason and religion/revelation Religion is founded in reality Reconciliation will require new understanding of both science and religion [see also Religion defined as necessary connections proceeding from the realities of things] Science as source of spirituality Revelation as source/stimulus of knowledge, philosophy The acquisition of knowledge should have a spiritual foundation The standard of true knowledge is not the standard of the world [see also Their own selves] The Greek philosophers and the Jewish sages The importance of the study of Islam; Islam as stimulus to European civilization Hermes and Balinus; the Corpus Hermeticum [see also Their reality surrounds and therefore comprehends all things] The four (five) methods of acquiring knowledge Combining principles of research with love for the Faith [see also Limitations of the mind; of human knowledge] The method of "dialectic" - identifying the underlying forms The relativity of knowledge; of spiritual perspective [see also Relativity] The interconnectedness of the Teachings; the Teachings as sphere [see also All things are involved in all things; the chain of being] B. The Word of God; the Logos The Word of God in relation to God The procession of the Logos/Word from God The Word is the first bestowal of God; the dewdrop from the ocean The Word/Logos is the breath of God The Word/Logos is God's overflowing love The Word of God and the Realm of Command [see also The Primal Will identified with the Logos/the Word of God; the source of the Word] The Word of God identified with the Holy Spirit The Word of God identified with the Manifestation of God Christ as Word of God; letter and word The Word of God is exalted above creation The Word of God is sanctified from time [see also God is exempt from time] [see also The reality of Manifestationhood has neither beginning nor end; preexistence] The Word of Command=Primal Will is the the cause of creation [see also The Primal Will is the immediate/efficient cause of creation] Appearance of the Word is like the image of the sun in a mirror The Word of God in the Realm of Creation The perfection/completeness of the revealed Word in every Dispensation The Word of God is abstruse; exalted above ordinary comprehension Comprehension of the Word of God not a function of human learning Interplay of form and meaning: da'iras and haykals The Word of God must be interpreted symbolically/metaphorically/in parables [see also Literal interpretation; misunderstanding of scripture a cause of their rejection] symbolism: angels symbolism: colors symbolism: nine-, five-pointed star symbolism: satan The Word as its own veil; veils of light [see also Limitations of the mind; of human knowledge] Grammatical discrepancies in Science of letters; abjad reckoning The Word of God is the repository of truths, mysteries Exoteric and esoteric aspects of the Word of God The Word of God contains inexhaustible meanings The inability of words to convey all truth; words not the final truth The Word of God cannot be compared to the words of men The Word of God as potent force; revolutionizes the world The Word encompasses/comprehends/pervades all things [see also The Primal Will is the inner reality of all things/pervades all things] The Word of God is effective in both spirit and body Heals the spiritually sick [see also The Holy Spirit is the source of physical and spiritual healing] Effect of the Word is like the penetration of spirit in the body The Word of God is the cause of progress in the world [see also The Holy Spirit is the cause of collective progress; education; arts and sciences] The Word of God is the agent of separation and unification The Word of God transforms/quickens with the spirit of faith; with the living waters [see also The Holy Spirit is the cause of quickening/attaining eternal life] [see also Entrance to the Kingdom; spiritual transformation] The Word of God is the binding force in the world [see also The Holy Spirit is the cause of unity/brotherhood] [see also To promote peace and unity; the betterment of the world: the need for unity] The corruption and misinterpretation of the Word of God C. Language, Symbol and Interpretation grammar and orthography importance of authoritative interpretation encouragement of individual understanding; interpretation interpretation of words and passages in scripture accounts of dreams and visions interpretation of dreams and visions symbolism Crimson Ark; the Ark of God ringstone symbol four pillars apocalyptic imagery metallurgical metaphors Jabulqa and Jabarsa mystery of the great reversal spiritual warfare/struggle heaven and paradise; heaven and hell the concourse on high belief and denial nearness and remoteness light and darkness the ephemeral and the eternal worldliness vs. other-worldliness life and death D. Sacred Writings: General themes; disposition of Revelation is sent down in various styles, modes praise and encouragement exhortations and counsels predictions and prophecies humor; jokes stories; anecdotes poems and quotation from poetry suffering and imprisonment consolation and comfort expressions of grief; lamentation; sadness eulogies; reminiscences visitation Tablets naming of children; of individuals photographs and recordings petitions to authorities personal instructions permission for visit; pilgrimage da'iras and haykals acknowledgment of gift; of monetary contribution proclamation of the Cause (general or uncategorized) proclamation to divines; to religious leaders proclamation to Jews proclamation to Muslims proclamation to Christians proclamation to people of the Bayan proclamation to the people of the world proclamation to kings; rulers; prominent individuals preservation; transcription of the Sacred Writings authentication; disposition of the Sacred Writings collection; ordering of the Sacred Writings translation/publication of the Sacred Writings The Sacred Texts are intended for all Individual reality and development A. Spiritual life and practice in relation to self The purpose of life - in relation to one's self Knowing one's true self [see also The divine light/love of God is deposited within the reality of man] [see also Knowledge of self] Becoming spiritually transformed To prepare for the next life Progressing to a higher condition beyond the material Attaining true life; the life of faith; living in the spirit Development of consciousness Acquiring virtues; sublimation of character Fulfilling one's inner potential vs. happiness Only one passage through life needed to accomplish this purpose attainment of form; for the soul form = virtue [see also Humanity's need of the Holy Spirit] [see also The purpose of religion in relation to the individual: transformation] [see also Knowledge of self] The life of virtue in relation to one's self (virtues of the path) The condition of search/striving Effort increases capacity Open doors and the guidance of God Striving for excellence, perfection, distinction Four kinds of spiritual wayfarers [see also Knowledge of self] [see also Knowledge of the Manifestations is equivalent to knowledge of God] [see also Third pathway of love: Man's love for God] [see also Attainment to the throne of the inmost heart (fu'ad)] [see also The independent investigation of reality] Purity of heart; sincerity of intention Worshiping without fear of fire or hope of paradise Repentance Purity of heart through spiritual baptism A chaste and holy life Knowledge of self [see also The divine light/love of God is deposited within the reality of man] [see also The purpose of life - in relation to one's self] Detachment/severance/self-renunciation/patience Detachment from the things of the next world, from reward/punishment The ephemerality and intrinsic worthlessness of the material world [see also Fana/annihilation] Denial of desire Sacrifice of self Practical limits of self-sacrifice; self-defence courage Prayer, meditation, fasting, study [see also Prayer] Meditation, contemplation [see also Obligatory prayer] [see also Fasting] Study/deepening; engagement with the Word [see also Exhortations to acquire knowledge and the sciences] importance of reading the Sacred Writings [see also Goodly deeds/actions (vs. words), individually and collectively] Bringing oneself to account each day; mindfulness development of capacity and readiness disregarding individual capacity; weakness Happiness; joyfulness Humorous statements Three keys to happiness The countenance Cleanliness and refinement beauty; grace; aesthetics Refinement connected to bringing a thing to its paradise Choice of clothing and cut of beard silence; fewness of words composure; tranquillity; serenity disregarding bodily comfort excellence; distinction self-improvement; self-perfection; discipline power of imagination; thought; right intention acquiescence and resignation; contentment The Spirit of Faith defined: the bounty of God Spiritual emotions and susceptibilities The spirit (of faith) illumines the soul (=human spirit) Faith as defined by action Entrance to the Kingdom; spiritual transformation Spiritual transformation is the passage from self- to other-centeredness Attainment in the twinkling of an eye The city of certitude; stages of certitude The gnat into the eagle Traditional stages of the soul; degrees of spiritual ascent Imagery of transformation: The three baptisms Symbol of baptism no longer needed in this Cycle Imagery of transformation: The second birth; spiritual rebirth Spiritual birth not without difficulties Imagery of transformation: The soul as soil and the analogy of cultivation Imagery of transformation: Transmutation of souls through the divine Elixir The rarity/scarcity of true spiritual transformation A change in essence or an awakening from sleep? [see also The Word of God transforms/quickens with the spirit of faith; with the living waters] The life of the Kingdom The exalted station of the true believer Heroes and saints The Kingdom of God is not a place; it is within this world; a single world Paradise defined as the good pleasure/presence of God The rewards of this life and the afterlife Spiritual life not a goal but a process No tests and trials in the world of the Kingdom Spiritual advancement has inherent limits The delicacy of inner vision The choice sealed wine Attainment to the throne of the inmost heart (fu'ad) Fana/annihilation [see also Sacrifice of self] 'Alam-i-Mithal (the realm of similitudes) and the barzakh The living waters of everlasting life: water as life Beyond the world of the intellect Renunion with the Good [see also Malakút – the Kingdom of God] [see also The Holy Spirit's effect upon the human soul and upon humanity] The mysteries and their discovery Broadened spiritual perception; ability to discern truth from error Perceives with both outer and inner senses Awareness of the station of others Active pursuit of mystical experiences discouraged Forbidden to disclose the mysteries to the unready The "mysterious" as source of both religion and science mystical themes [see also Religion has a mystical foundation] B. Spiritual life and practice in relation to God The purpose of life - in relation to God Knowledge/recognition/'irfan/love/remembrance of God Knowledge of God is the beginning of all things [see also The acquisition of knowledge should have a spiritual foundation] [see also The twofold obligation of recognition and obedience] Attainment to the divine presence; reunion with God Becoming the recipient of divine bounties; the grace of the Holy Spirit Knowing God and reflecting His glory a twofold distinction [see also The twofold obligation of recognition and obedience] [see also God's love is the cause of man's creation] [see also Love for God (the third station of love)] The life of virtue in relation to God (theocentric virtues) The twofold obligation of recognition and obedience Knowledge (irfán) of God / Recognition of the Manifestation [see also Knowledge of God is the beginning of all things] Obedience/submission to God; to the Laws of God The precedence of knowledge/recognition over obedience/deeds Spiritual capacity/receptivity One's own limited capacity should not be be regarded [see also Individual capacities/stations differ] [see also Effort increases capacity] Capacity and worthiness are identical to grace The grace/good-pleasure of God Many are called but few are chosen Divine grace bestows capacity The living waters of mercy and grace The power of divine assistance [see also Humanity's need of the Holy Spirit] [see also Divine grace bestows capacity] [see also The Spirit of Faith defined: the bounty of God] [see also Teaching and divine confirmations] Piety, righteousness, fear of God (taqwa) Love for God (the third station of love) The fire of love Love includes all other attributes Love is greater than knowledge/wisdom Love is greater than peace/unity [see also Third pathway of love: Man's love for God] Humility and meekness before God (and others) Submission to the will of God; radiant acquiescence [see also Obedience/submission to God; to the Laws of God] [see also Spirit of kindliness and humility; self-effacement] Steadfastness/perseverance/trust/reliance/hope/faithfulness [see also The importance of steadfastness and obedience to the Covenant] Asking/knocking Tests and trials of God; suffering; the wisdom of divine tests Badá (divine nonfulfillment/alteration) Tests as means of distinguishing the pure in heart The mystery of evil, of suffering: theodicy [see also Their ways and words, changes they bring about, are contrary to the desires of men] No soul is tested beyond its power Thankfulness to God under all conditions trust and reliance in God; turning to Him at all times Prayer prayer for assistance; intercession prayer for children and youth prayer for detachment prayer for evening; night prayer for fasting prayer for firmness in the Covenant prayer for forgiveness prayer for gatherings; meetings; assemblies prayer for governments and rulers prayer for healing prayer for justice and fairmindedness prayer for married couples prayer for martyrs prayer for morning prayer for nearness to God prayer for opponents; enemies of the Faith prayer for parents prayer for peace and unity prayer for pilgrims prayer for pioneers and travel teachers prayer for praise and gratitude prayer for prosperity prayer for protection prayer for purity; chastity prayer for sacrifice prayer for service prayer for specific individuals; groups prayer for spiritual recognition prayer for steadfastness; obedience prayer for strength prayer for teaching prayer for tests and difficulties prayer for the Babis; people of the Bayan prayer for the departed prayer for unity prayer for women prayer to be recited at table prayers (general or uncategorized) Who to turn in prayer We should not pray for things but to align our will with God's Prayers can only be answered through action; prayer as action rendering assistance to God/victory [nusrat] nearness to God C. Spiritual life and practice in relation to others The purpose of life - in relation to others Carrying forward an ever-advancing civilization Serving the Cause of God Living in unity Being a source of light/guidance in the world Bringing forth fruit [see also The purpose of religion in relation to society: unity through justice] The life of virtue in relation to others (worldly virtues) Solitary existence not possible for man; cooperation needed The golden rule; regard for one's neighbor Act towards others as God has acted Consorting with all; being a wellwisher of all; kindness to all Exceptions: the tyrant, the deceiver, the thief spiritual communication; connections of the heart Loving one's enemies; returning hatred for love; regarding none as strangers Concealing the sins of others; forgiveness Tolerance, forbearance compassion; kindness generosity [kirama] Being adorned with divine virtues; upright character and praiseworthy deeds The "foundation of all virtue" Being recognized by one's bearing and conduct as a believer Courtesy Goodly deeds/actions (vs. words), individually and collectively Abandoning frivolous conduct Acceptability of deeds depends on knowledge and love of God, right intention Acceptability of deeds depends upon the good pleasure of God Honesty, truthfulness, trustworthiness, sincerity Service to others, to the Cause, to humanity Assistance to the poor and the orphan; generosity; charity Visiting the sick Striving for others; making a mighty effort; ceaseless labor Defending the Faith hospitality Acting for the betterment of the world; useful work; active engagement in society Having a trade/profession; engaging in useful work Not a quixotic effort of attacking society's evils one by one Teaching the Cause; being a giver of light The importance and reponsibility of teaching Anyone can potentially teach The high station of teachers [see also The exalted station of the true believer] Teaching should be the focus of the individual Exalting the Word of God Irrelevance of numbers; the power of a single individual Urgency of teaching in light of world turmoil Purpose of teaching: to transform the world Considerations regarding the teacher The teacher must teach one's self first knowledge secondary to devotion The teacher must be enkindled; reborn The teacher should be a like a reed for the Holy Spirit The teacher should be a source of living waters The teacher should have pure intentions The teacher should possess genuine love and affection The teacher should have zeal and fervor; dominating passion loyalty and devotion; sacrifice; consecration The teacher must possess a praiseworthy character [see also Being adorned with divine virtues; upright character and praiseworthy deeds] Spirit of kindliness and humility; self-effacement The teacher should have confidence, courage; faith The teacher should be detached; unrestrained The teacher should disregard his own incapacity [see also One's own limited capacity should not be be regarded] fewness of numbers not regarded in teaching the Cause Deeds should match the words, beliefs Words should match the deeds Importance of loving community spirit [see also virtues of the path] the power of words; of speech Considerations regarding the method Role of the individual is crucial Wisdom and utterance; the power of utterance in teaching A moderate approach; wisdom Following the example of 'Abdu'l-Baha Setting forth reasoned proofs Avoiding controversy and argument Must be flexible; avoid rigidity of method Should adopt a systematic approach Using the revealed Word; sowing the word in the hearts Focus should be on one or a few persons Teaching by example [see also Possessing a praiseworthy character] Superiority of the fireside method The role of music and the arts Proclamation vs. teaching Praying to be guided to ready souls Teaching and travelling; pioneering Revisiting areas; follow-up Coordinating individual efforts with the institutions Deputizing another to teach Door to door distribution of pamphlets undignified Proselytizing forbidden Considerations regarding the one being taught Must eliminate estrangement first Must teach only those who are ready scarcity of receptive souls The importance of reaching people of capacity All are welcome The majority is not ready Imparting the Word according to capacity and need Apparent lack of receptivity not necessarily a barrier Confirming the new believer Gradual introduction to laws; to the community of believers Teaching and the promise of divine confirmations [see also The Holy Spirit bestows confirmations in teaching] Fellowship with the righteous; spiritual gatherings Avoiding the wayward and ungodly Conversation should be spiritualized [see also The Nineteen-day Feast] fairmindedness; personal justice [insaf] Marriage as means of spiritual progress [see also Marriage and family life] Kindness to animals [see also Fourth pathway of love: Man's love for man] Collective reality and development A. Religion and the Covenant Religion is one in its essence Cannot call one superior to another The changeless Faith; transcending sectarian organizations This Faith embraces all others This Faith reconciles; widens the basis of past religions Truth is found everywhere An attitude toward divinity [see also The oneness of the Prophets; station of "pure abstraction and essential unity"; tawhid] Religion has a changing part and a changeless part The changeless part Not possible to rigidly classify the fundamentals Religious truth is relative Revelation is progressive, organic, cyclical Measure of revelation is proportional to capacity/requirements of the day Differences between religions are due to varying types of minds Superannuation/abrogation; religious laws change with changing times Succession of prophets through the descendants of Abraham Former religions are affirmed; their divine origin upheld Progressive unfoldment of claims within a Dispensation The Manifestation, if slain, can be replaced by another [see also Future divine revelations] [see also Cycles in the spiritual world; the divine springtime] Revelation has no beginning and no end The Prophets of old were sent to the cities of all nations [see also The divine bounty is ceaseless/eternal] [see also Man potentially existed from the beginning] Religion has a mystical foundation The core of religious faith is the mystical feeling uniting us with God The foundation of religion is love Does not belong to the physical world: Spirit unalloyed The law of God as choice wine; living waters; keys of mercy Religion not a set of beliefs but a means of transforming character The mystic path is to the Prophet (and not directly to God) There are no "esoteric teachings" in the Faith Religion is not just for the mystically inclined [see also The mysteries and their discovery] Religion has a twofold purpose in the world The purpose of religion in relation to the individual: transformation To draw us closer to God; teach us the knowledge of God To illumine/transform/refine/spiritualize the souls To foster human virtues To bring forth those forces latent within the human reality To enable us to reflect and transmit the light of the Spirit [see also The purpose of life - in relation to one's self] The purpose of religion in relation to society: unity through justice To promote peace and unity; the betterment of the world: the need for unity Religion the greatest tool to establish virtue, justice and unity Unity paramount; the ultimate solution to all other problems The power of unity in all the degrees of existence If religion is the cause of disunity then irreligion is preferable Unity of conscience a prerequisite to peace Unity brings the confirmations of the Holy Spirit To secure general happiness, welfare of material civilization To secure justice for all Purpose of justice is the appearance of unity To regenerate/quicken/revive humanity To promote an ever-advancing civilization; divine civilization To call into being a new race of men [see also A new race of men] To establish the basis of morality To convey the Word of God; the Cause of God [see also The purpose of life - in relation to other people] religion as source/stimulus of knowledge and science [see also The Word of God is the binding force in the world] The Covenant; faiths and beliefs of the past The Greater and Lesser Covenants; major and minor Plans The Covenant is the dynamic force in the world The Covenant directs and canalizes the forces of the Revelation The greatness/uniqueness of this Covenant The inviolability of the Covenant Explicitness of succession of authority its distinguishing feature The importance of firmness, steadfastness and obedience to the Covenant [see also Obedience/submission] The Covenant preserves the unity of the Faith Will and Testament as child of the Covenant Covenant-breaking and its consequences avoidance of Covenant-Breakers B. Laws and ordinances Prayer and fasting Obligatory prayer Fasting Marriage Consent of both parties and their parents Monogamy vs bigamy Misc. laws: age limit, annulment, betrothal, dowry, consanguinity Birth control and abortion law of repetition; recitation of the Greatest Name Divorce Inheritance Misc. laws and ordinances Pilgrimage Huququ'llah Age of maturity Endowments Burial of the dead Hunting The writing of a will/testament Zakat/tithes/alms tax The day of rest C. Prohibitions and admonitions Bigamy blind imitation [taqlid] hypocrisy Bribery, corruption, fraud Burning/destruction of books Contention and conflict; disunity anthropomorphism idolatry superstition astrology and numerology demons and evil spirits original sin pantheism occult sciences; psychic phenomena reincarnation fanaticism and hatred holy war [jihad]; violence in the name of God Hatred of the light Injustice/tyranny Prejudice; racial prejudice; class distinction Secret societies, membership in Slavery Selfishness/self-love/egotism/self-indulgence Greed, envy, covetousness, passion/desire, attachment to the world Pride testing God Idle talk/backbiting/speaking ill of others Laying claim to inner knowledge Murder; causing physical harm Use of pulpits False spirituality; insincerity in matters of faith false claims to divine revelation or spiritual stations Suicide Theft; seizing the properties of others saddening another soul Lying Lust Gambling, games of chance Carrying arms unless essential Alcohol and drugs; opium Smoking; tobacco (discouraged) Adultery Pederasty; homosexual acts Confession of sins Monasticism; asceticism Priestcraft Begging; mendicancy; idleness and sloth Congregational prayer Dissimulation of one's faith [taqiyyih] religious rituals minimized or eliminated D. Social teachings Lists of principles; the "12 principles" call to unity; prohibition of disunity race unity; racial issues Justice; reward and punishment [see also To secure justice for all] Punishment as motivation True liberty, freedom The equality of men and women Prerequisite to abolition of war role and station of women Universal language Merits of Persian and Arabic Universal education; education of children High station of teaching children Children's schools Must include moral/spiritual education Punishment should be verbal, never corporal Teaching children prayers and verses Crimes to be reduced in the future through education [see also The human world is in need of education] [see also Exhortations to acquire knowledge and the sciences] Future economy; spiritual solution to the economic problem The status of wealth and possessions Elimination of extremes of wealth and poverty Complete and forced equality not desirable Intervention of government in labor-management disputes is justified conduct in finance and business Future economy based on voluntary sharing promotion of commerce and industry charitable associations; humanitarian activities Details to be determined as the need arises Debts and interest on loans Community storehouse and profit sharing Importance of agriculture Present and future expansion of the arts and sciences The synthesis/correlation of knowledge True religion is the promoter of truth, science, civilization [see also Revelation as source/stimulus of knowledge, philosophy] Knowledge of the transmutation of elements educational curricula parents and children; families rights of the eldest son; primogeniture work as worship creativity in art Role of newspapers, the press justice and mercy Human rights protected; rights of minorities preserved Preservation of diversity; intersectionalism and politics of identity consumption of meat; vegetarianism; diet E. The Administrative Order and the Baha'i community The twin pillars of the Administrative Order; interpretation vs. legislation The elected branch, the "rulers"; the House of Justice The Universal House of Justice Election of the House of Justice Authority and infallibility of the Universal House of Justice Purpose of infallibility is preservation of unity Possibility of ruling contrary to spirit of the Cause Infallibility attributed more generally to the Administrative Order Sphere of authority: laws not mentioned in the book Cannot define its own sphere of legislation Power to repeal own legislation Responsibilities of A legislative, not executive body Service of women on National Spiritual Assemblies Regional Councils Local Spiritual Assemblies/Houses of Justice Purpose and duties of Local Assemblies Importance of horizontal communication between Assemblies The appointed branch, the "learned"; the Guardianship The Guardianship Appointment by 'Abdu'l-Baha Infallibility of the Guardian Provision for future Guardians Future Guardians cannot abrogate previous interpretation Limited status of letters to individuals Provisional nature of guidance The Guardian not a perfect exemplar Huququllah offered through the Guardian The principle of inseparability and the absence of a living Guardian Status of translations by the Guardian The Hands of the Cause International Teaching Centre, Counsellors and Auxiliary Boards The three ages of the Faith and the unfolding Divine Plan The ages of the Faith: heroic, formative, golden Universal participation needed Two essential movements Balancing expansion and consolidation Entry by troops and its preconditions Future growth and evolution of the administrative order The invincibility of the Cause in the face of opposition Purpose and processes of the Administrative Order; community functioning Administrative Order the nucleus and pattern of future World Order Threefold purpose: continuity, unity, integrity/flexibility Twofold purpose: expansion and consolidation Consultation Requisites of consultation Consultation the source of inspiration Should support decisions in unity, even if wrong Reflects shift away from individual authority The conduct and character of Baha'i elections No nominations or canvassing in Baha'i elections Prayerful atmosphere The need for the electors to be informed Conventions Qualifications of members of Assemblies The individual and the community; freedom and authority; criticism the individual, the community, and the institutions The importance of freedom of thought, expression, and action [see also The Independent Investigation of Reality] Closely connected to the principles of consultation Freedom of personal interpretation and conscious upheld Obedience through love, not coersion Unity in diversity of action needed Individual freedom and development; encouraging initiative There is room for all in the Cause Latitude and limits in the expression of criticism Balance/cooperation between institutions and individuals Requires true Baha'i spirit to balance The principle of obedience to the institutions Administrators must be humble; avoid dictatorial authority Non-involvement in political matters; partisan politics Guidance regarding voting Rebellion against authority a characteristic of the present age Prepublication review Intellectual pride to be avoided Administrators must work to win confidence of community members No "liberals" and "conservatives" in the Cause Reponse to community failings should be to lead by personal example Formation of constituencies is antithetical to the spirit of the Cause The system is perfect but the human instruments are not Growing pains will be overcome Affiliation with like-minded groups [see also Role of the individual is crucial] The Faith should be in the forefront of progressive movements Spirit and form: the need for and limits of organization The need for organization The spirit of the Cause must be embodied in a visible order Systematic action Institutions are a crystallization of the forces of Revelation Requirements and boundaries of Baha'i membership; enrolments Cannot separate the Cause from the administration Centralization of authority (vs. decentralization) The limits of organization; of outward forms Can remain member of other societies Over-occupation with rules stifles the spirit; grey areas to remain The importance of fluidity/flexibility Administrative machinery a means, not an end Any agency capable of misuse The teachings are the organization of the Kingdom Unity in diversity vs. unity in uniformity Community progress measured by love and unity, functioning administration Spirit more important than structure, numbers Baha'i identity not dependent on fixed patterns The importance of balance/moderation In economic policies [see also The principle of balance/equilibrium in nature] The rhythms of community life Importance and dimensions of community building The Nineteen-Day Feast The global Plan and core activities Training institutes; study circles Participation in Ruhi not a requirement Devotional gatherings Children's classes Junior youth The role and importance of youth Family life [see also Universal education; education of children] Respect for parents Health and healing consulting competent physicians role of balance/equilibrium [see also The principle of balance/equilibrium in nature] The institution of the House of Worship (Mashriqu'l-Adhkar) dependencies The Haziratu'l-Quds The fund Holy Days and the Baha'i calendar Shrines and Holy places Social and economic development projects Deepenings and firesides Summer schools Past, Present, and Future A. Beliefs and Dispensations of the past History and its unreliability Hermes; Balinus Buddhism and Hinduism; religions of the East Zoroastrianism; Mahabad and Zoroaster Judaism Moses Judaism; the Torah; the Jewish people Abraham/Isaac/Ishmael Adam; Adam and Eve Noah Mosaic imagery Christianity John the Baptist Christ; Christianity Christian doctrine and practice Superannuation and need for renewal quotation from or interpretation of the Bible birth of Christ; purity/virginity of Mary suffering; rejection of Christ crucifixion; ascension of Christ resurrection of Christ return of Christ; second coming of Christ Judas Mary Magdalene Saint Peter and Saint Paul the cross and the trinity the Christian clergy early Christian persecutions; the Pharisees apostles; early disciples of Christ Christian rejection of Baha’u’llah and the Baha'i Faith Islam Muhammad; Islam family of Muhammad; early figures in Islam rejection of Muhammad episodes from the early history of Islam Qur’an and Hadith quotation and interpretation Islamic laws and jurisprudence Islamic rituals; holy days; practices; etc. veiling [hijab] pilgrimage [Hajj] in Islam Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) imagery in the Qur'an Imam 'Ali Imam Husayn the Imamate; the Caliphate the Twelfth Imam; the Qa'im Seal of the Prophets Sunnis and Shi'is Shaykhis Theosophy B. The Central Figures; events of their ministries The Bab the Bab; the Primal Point; station and claims of the Bab Revelation of the Bab was a preparation for Baha'u'llah events in the life and ministry of the Bab Declaration; advent of the Bab Letters of the Living Quddus Tahirih [Qurratu'l-'Ayn] conference of Badasht martyrdom of the Bab sacred remains; burial of the Bab the Bayan, its laws and their abrogation Baha'u'llah early years; early ministry of Baha'u'llah incarceration of Baha'u'llah in Siyah Chal banishments of Baha'u'llah Baha'u'llah in Sulaymaniyyih banishment to; life in Baghdad Declaration of Baha'u'llah banishment to; life in Constantinople banishment to; life in Adrianople rebellion and misdeeds of Mirza Yahya; the Azalis rejection by the people of the Bayan banishment to; life in 'Akka Mount Carmel Ascension of Baha'u'llah 'Abdu'l-Baha youth and pre-ministry of Abdu'l-Baha Appointment and station of Abdu'l-Baha Infallibility of Abdu'l-Baha autobiographical account; narrative of Abdu'l-Baha constitutional revolution in Iran Ottoman commissions of investigation travels to Egypt by Abdu'l-Baha travels to the West by Abdu'l-Baha C. Present and future order; crisis and victory The greatness of this Revelation; of this Day The spirit of the age; a new life infused into all things This revelation unprecedented; revolutionary; highest stage of life on this planet This Faith fulfills the promises of past religions [see also Fulfilment of prophecy, literally or symbolically; prediction of future events] Twin Manifestations a sign of the greatness of this Revelation Cannot estimate its merit now The path to world civilization; greater and lesser peace East and West; communication between East and West praise of Western values; culture praise of Eastern values; culture critique of Eastern values; culture critique of Western values; culture Elements in the path to adoption of world civilization Not possible to predict in detail Adoption will be gradual; by degrees Social teachings already largely adopted The decline of old religious institutions Wave of secularism will clear the way The Cause will be adopted as a practical measure Adoption cannot be purely practical; must be based on principle Adopted democratically; through deliberation; not imposed Stages of obscurity, repression, etc. Peace inevitable, but realization can be delayed through inaction corruption and renewal; abandoning religious dogmas Forces of integration and disintegration; crisis and victory Future convulsions; war; calamities; the "Day of Judgement"; immediate future dark New Order disturbs the world's equilibrium; old order to be rolled up The possible severing of the part for the sake of the whole Opposition to the Cause; to the Covenant [see also The suffering and rejection of the Manifestations] Period of turbulent adolescence No time to lose The goal is far off Should continue to live normal lives Deferred destiny and the possibility of failure Humanity's capacity to recognize has waned; further veils, immaturity [see also The heedlessness of the people] The Lesser Peace Reduction of armaments World Parliament Military action possibly a feature of this stage Will lead to the spiritualization of the masses The Most Great Peace, oneness of mankind; world unity; golden age [see also To promote peace and unity; the betterment of the world: the need for unity] [see also Unity in diversity vs. unity in uniformity] The coming of age of mankind; attainment of collective maturity Unfolding stages/circles of unity The wellbeing of mankind depends on its unity Unity an expression of God's love Most Great Peace the practical consequence of spiritualization of mankind Peace among nations based on peace between individuals The world civilization Organizational features of future world order: the future government of humanity Uniqueness: Not to be identified with existing systems; a new social form Church and state in the future Critiques of capitalism, communism, socialism The future world superstate and its components International executive World Legislature Supreme Tribunal To be merged into the Universal House of Justice Headed by the Universal House of Justice Relationship between government and people should be like honey and milk World Commonwealth Representative government endorsed civil courts Keys to future government: capable and sincere leaders, engaged populace Kingship: continuance of; position and responsibility of kings Obedience to authority; to just kings Executive, legislative, judicial Limits of nationalism; of the nation-state The spiritualization of humanity Material civilization alone insufficient Secular morality insufficient; only religion can ensure civilized behavior Material and spiritual civilization will progress hand in hand Progressive manifestation of the effulgences of divinity Promise of victory; spirituality will triumph A "new race of men" A new way of life; reconstructed society; new culture Future explication of the Baha'i teachings; scholarship The Kingdom of God on earth past, present and future of Iran future of Haifa; of the Holy Land Future divine revelations No new divine revelation for at least one thousand years Revelation after Baha'u'llah; the Baha'i cycle

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