66. Aghsan # 42"Aghsan" (plural of Ghusn) is the Arabic word for "Branches". This term is used by Baha'u'llah to designate His male descendants. It has particular implications not only for the disposition of endowments but also for the succession of authority following the passing of Baha'u'llah (see note 145) and of Abdu'l-Baha. Baha'u'llah, in the Book of His Covenant, appointed Abdu'l-Baha, His eldest son, as the Centre of His Covenant and the Head of the Faith. Abdu'l-Baha, in His Will and Testament, appointed Shoghi Effendi, His eldest grandson, as the Guardian and Head of the Faith.
This passage of the Aqdas, therefore, anticipates the succession of chosen Aghsan and thus the institution of the Guardianship and envisages the possibility of a break in their line. The passing of Shoghi Effendi in 1957 precipitated the very situation provided for in this passage, in that the line of Aghsan ended before the Universal House of Justice had been established (see note 67).
3. The religious endowments are to be controlled by Baha'u'llah as long as he lives. At his death the "command" or control of them goes to the "Branches", that is, the sons of Baha'u'llah. When
they die the House of Justice will assume control.