Note: "Local Spiritual Assembly" and "National Spiritual Assembly," rather than abbreviations, are normally used to denote the dignity and station of the local, national, and international administrative bodies of the Bahá'í Faith. Because the institutions are referred to so many times in the index, the abbreviations "LSA" and "NSA" are employed to save space.

acquainting youth with example of, 11.10
Ascension of, 9.1, 9.4-9.5, 9.6, 9.7
birthday of, 9.4
Covenant and, 9.4
      Day of the Covenant, 9.4
as defender of Spiritual Assemblies, 1.2
Funds established by, 10.1
method of, for conveying spiritual truths, 11.14-11.15
pattern for future civilization laid by, 1.2
pictures and portraits of, 5.9, 12.24
records and films of, 5.9-5.10
and social and economic development, 13.1-13.2
Tablets of the Divine Plan of, 10.45
Will of, 10.45

burial of naturally aborted fetus, 18.5

Bahá'í World Center and, 10.44-10.47
consummation of, 1.1
distinguishing features of, 1.15-1.16
embryonic state of, 1.3-1.4
Feast links community to, 9.15
freedom of expression in, 4.17-4.20
functioning of
      hostile criticism can undermine, 4.18-4.19
      in communities cut off from World Center, 1.16
      quality of membership raised through elections, 2.8
generating impulse of, 10.45
LSA as basic unit of, 1.3, 8.6
maturation of, 1.3-1.5, 7.27-7.28
      as pattern for future society, 1.2
      patience required for, 2.9

minority representation in, 4.20
organization of, not an end in itself, 3.1
purposes of, 1.1-1.2, 1.4
scope and authority of, 1.2
spiritual foundation of, 10.13-10.14
strength of, 1.2
strengthening of
      dependent on individual participation, 10.13-10.14
      through teaching, 7.12
uniqueness of, 1.1-1.2
and unit convention, 3.44-3.45
world's equilibrium upset by, 10.44

area of LSA jurisdiction for, 2.25
believers without, attitude of community toward, 7.65, 15.12, 15.13
removal of, 3.11-3.12, 6.1-6.2, 15.8-18.18. See also Law(s), violations of
      actions subject to, 12.8, 15.16-15.30, 16.24-16.26
      appeals concerning, 15.13-15.14
      applied to youth, 15.10
      education and counsel preferable to, 3.11-3.12
      as greatest punishment, 15.8
      limited sanctions possible, 3.14, 15.9
      meaning of, 15.11-15.12
      no further sanctions during period of, 15.11
      recommendations concerning, made by LSA to NSA, 15.10-15.11
      refusal to participate in joint declaration, 2.21
      refusal to serve when elected, 3.11-3.12
      restrictions and privileges involved in, 6.1-6.2, 10.9, 15.11-15.12
      role of LSA in, 15.3-15.16
      role of NSA in, 15.9
      use of warnings before, 15.7-15.8, 16.25
restoration of, 15.14-15.16, 16.26-16.29
      considering each case on own merits, 15.15
      when deprived because of marriage violation, 15.14, 16.26-16.29
      repentance necessary for, 15.14

for annual meeting, 2.3, 2.4
for LSA meetings, 3.22-3.23

individual use of, 15.16
sale or use of, on Bahá'í property, 14.18
serving, when entertaining, 9.32, 15.22-15.23, 16.22

as Cradle of Administrative Order, 10.6
as melting pot, 7.50

agenda for, 2.3, 2.4
attendance at, 2.18
fifteen days' notice of, 2.2
minutes of, 2.3
no minimum for attendance at, 2.18
preparation for, 2.3-2.4

as component of Hazíratu'l-Quds, 3.28
importance of, 3.28-3.29
items to be included in, 3.22, 3.38
retrieving, from persons leaving LSA, 3.22

at committee meetings, 3.10
at Nineteen Day Feasts, 9.25-9.31, 15.11-15.12
at LSA meetings, 3.10-3.11, 3.12-3.13

delegation of, by LSA, 3.18
expression of, 1.9
suspicion toward, 1.11-1.12
temperament of, 1.8-1.9

annual report of LSA, sharing with, 2.5
assistants to, 1.23-1.25, 4.15-4.16
consultation with, by LSAs, 4.13
consultation with, 15.5
and Continental Funds, 10.5
members of, 1.19-1.23
      election of, to other institutions, 2.10
      may serve temporarily as Assembly members, 2.10
for Propagation, 7.42
for Protection, 5.16-5.17
referring matters to, 1.21-1.22, 5.17
relationship of, to Continental Boards of Counselors, 1.18, 7.33
role of, in protecting Faith, 5.16-5.17
role of, in teaching and deepening, 1.21, 7.33, 7.41-7.44
services of, 1.24

Birth of, 9.1, 9.4
Declaration of, 9.1, 9.2-9.3
interment of, 10.46
Martyrdom of, 9.1, 9.3
suspension of work on Holy days pertaining to, 9.9

acquisition of, 14.6-14.16
alcohol consumption at, 14.18
community center in addition to, 14.4

dancing in, 14.18-14.19
financing of, 14.8-14.10
      earmarked contributions for, 14.16
      endowments for, 14.5
      maintenance costs, 14.9, 14.12-14.13
      pledges, 14.10
      saving funds for, 14.6, 14.13
functions held in, 8.2, 8.3, 8.6, 14.6-14.7, 14.18-14.19
as embryonic Hazíratu'l-Quds, 14.4-14.5
Hazíratu'l-Quds may serve as, 14.4
land for, 14.5
legal considerations, 14.13-14.16
      building codes and zoning ordinances, 14.15
      liability and insurance, 14.15
      ownership and leases,14.13-14.14
      tax exemption,14.14
LSA jurisdiction over, not to be shared, 14.16
maintenance of, 14.12-14.13
management of, 14.11-14.12
physical aspects of
      appearance, 14.10
      interior decoration, 14.11
      location, 14.10
      protection, 14.15-14.16
purpose of, 14.6-14.7

activities of, 8.2, 8.3. See also Feast, Nineteen Day; Holy days and special events; Prayer(s); Social and economic development; Teaching
      believers without administrative rights and, 15.11-15.13
      cultural traditions, observing, 8.5
      dawn prayers, 8.5
      deepening classes, 11.11-11.12
      devotional meetings, 7.18-7.19, 8.2
      goals suggested by Universal House of Justice, 7.23-7.25
      holding of, in rented church, 14.19
      intercommunity, 1.14, 3.21, 9.30-9.31
      at national level, 1.12
      participation in observances of previous Dispensations, 9.31-9.32
      supplementing official functions with social, 8.13
Bahá'u'lláh's power to organize human affairs and, 8.3
character and identity of, 3.16, 7.19, 8.1, 8.2, 8.14-8.15
children in. See Children and youth
consolidation of, 8.2, 8.11
distinctive qualities of, 8.1, 8.2-8.10
      assured, orientated, happy, 8.14
      chaste and holy life, 8.15
      contrast between doomed society and, 8.3, 8.14
      individual freedom tempered by moderation and wisdom, 4.16-4.18
      stable and spiritually dynamic, 8.1
      true love and unity, 7.19, 8.3
      unity and fellowship, 8.2, 8.3
      worldwide way of life, 8.14-8.15
financial strongholds of, 10.6
growth of. See also Teaching
      depends on LSAs, 8.4
      distinctiveness attracts, 7.19, 8.2-8.3, 8.4
      problems solved by,13.3
      social and economic development projects, natural stage of, 13.4
illiteracy, elimination of, from, 13.3, 13.12

indigenous believers as bedrock of, 7.30
involvement of, with society, 7.54, 8.12. See also Bahá'í Faith, relationship of, to world at large
LSA and. See Local Spiritual Assembly
loyalty of, to government, 12.6-12.7
Mashriqu'l-Adhkár as spiritual center of, 13.1
masses attracted by, 8.2-8.3
membership in. See Membership
possibilities of
      dependent on individual initiative, 8.1
      influence of, transform society, 8.2-8.3
      offer refuge, 1.5
      spiritual development of, 8.2-8.3, 8.11
      unity of, 4.20-4.21, 7.19, 8.2, 8.3-8.5, 8.12-8.13. See also Unity

"Bahá'í World Faith," use of term, 12.24
cannot be confined to mere system of organization, 3.1
countries sensitive to, 7.49, 7.62
defending, 12.2
denial of faith not permitted in, 12.7
emergence of, from obscurity, 5.3, 10.46, 12.3, 12.15, 12.22
future of, as state religion, 1.3
growth of, dependent on LSA members' grasp of significance of institution, 1.7
laws and principles of, needed by people, 8.1
non-partisan character of, 12.7-12.10
opposition to, 5.17-5.23, 12.3
      administration, assailing of, 5.20
      Covenant-breaking, 5.12-5.16
      exposure and observation will lead to, 5.17
      inevitability of, 5.17-5.18
      intensification of, 5.16
      by ministers, will spread message, 5.18
      overcoming, as in past, 5.22-5.23
      and the Plan of God, 5.18-5.19
      press, supervision of, 5.22
      response of believers to, 5.20-5.21
      response of LSA and NSA to, 5.22, 12.3
      severe mental tests in West, 5.20
      sources of, 5.19
      spread of Cause linked to, 5.21
      steadfastness in face of, 5.20-5.21
      triumph in spite of, 5.22-5.23
public image of, 12.22-12.23
relationship of, to world at large, 7.54, 8.12, 12.2-12.6
      in association with other organizations, 12.14-12.16
      in contact with government officials, 12.2-12.3, 12.3-12.6
      ever-increasing, 12.5
      in loyalty to government, 12.6-12.7
      individual views may not reflect official Bahá'í positions, 12.5-12.6, 12.10-12.11, 12.13-12.14
      involvement in moral development, 8.12
      leaders of world must be informed, 12.3-12.4
      letters to editor, 12.23
      media and, 12.5, 12.21-12.24
      Office of External Affairs, 12.1-12.29. See also External Affairs
            Office of Public Information, 12.2

                  public information representatives/committees, 3.21, 3.36-3.37, 12.29
      Office of Social and Economic Development, 8.12
      participation in clubs, exhibits, societies, etc., 12.14
      petitions and letter-writing campaigns, 12.11
      politics. See Politics
      prominent people, contacts with, 12.4-12.5, 12.11-12.14
      in promoting human rights, 8.12
      United Nations, 12.2, 12.5
      United Nations Representative, 12.28-12.29
study of. See Consolidation; Deepening; Education; Scholarship, Bahá'í terms and symbols associated with, registered trademarks, 5.11
a way of life, 8.14-8.15
and World Religion Day, 9.33-9.34
worldwide growth of, 1.7, 5.23

balancing adherence to Cause and role in society, 9.32
behaviors subject to administrative sanction, 15.16-15.30
participating in cultural and religious traditions and festivals, 9.31-9.33
praying, fighting spiritual battles, contributing to Fund, 10.12

Ascension of, 9.1, 9.3, 9.6, 9.7
Birth of, 9.1, 9.4
Covenant of. See Covenant
Declaration of, 9.1, 9.2
Law of, 8.4. See also Law(s), Bahá'í
mission of, to lift burden of humanity, 10.36
Revelation of, influences peace and unity, 12.15
suspension of work on holy days pertaining to, 9.9
teachings of, lay pattern for civilization, 1.2

changes in, 2.11
recognizing, 2.24

administrative rights and, 15.12, 18.9
in Bahá'í cemeteries, 18.9
      deprivation of rights and, 18.9
      of non-Bahá'ís in, 18.9
of naturally aborted fetus, 18.5
financial assistance for, 18.2
gravestones, 18.9-18.10
military service and, 18.11-18.12
position of body in grave at, 18.10
requirements for, that are binding in West, 18.3-18.7
requirements for, that are not binding in West, 18.7-18.8
responsibilities of LSA toward, 18.1-18.2, 18.5-18.6
at sea, 18.12
specifics of, 18.1-18.8
      burial, not cremation, 18.1, 18.3, 18.4-18.6

      coffin, 18.7-18.8
      embalming of body, 18.6
      position of body in grave, 18.10
      preparation of body, 18.7
      recital of Prayer for the Dead, 18.1, 18.3-18.4
      if relatives not Bahá'í, 18.2
      ring, 18.4, 18.7-18.8
      simple and dignified funeral, 18.1, 18.3
      time and travel limit, 18.1, 18.3, 18.6-18.7
      wills can mention procedure for, 18.10, 18.14

advertising of, in Bahá'í publications, 3.31
conducting, during Feast, 10.32
disputes, settling of, 19.5-19.6
establishing Bahá'í, 13.15-13.16, 19.6
promotion of, at Bahá'í gatherings, 10.32
as social and economic development project, 13.15-13.16
membership lists, use of, for, 6.23
suspension of work on holy days, 9.1, 9.6, 9.8-9.11

declaring a vacancy before, 2.19, 3.13
reporting results of, 2.19, 2.22-2.23
when a quorum is impossible, 2.22
when to hold, 2.22-2.23, 3.13
written notice of, required, 2.22

gravestones, 18.9-18.10

duties of, 3.6-3.7, 3.22
may chair Feast, 9.24

chaste and holy life, 8.15

accustoming, to hardship, 11.8
abuse or neglect of, 15.26-15.27, 16.17-16.18, 17.10-17.11
of Bahá'ís regarded as Bahá'ís, 6.11
birth of, to be registered, 6.11, 6.21
burial of naturally aborted fetus, 18.5
chaste and holy life, 8.15
contributions to Fund by, 10.9
development of consultation skills by, 9.27
education of. See Education
enrollment of
      when one parent is Bahá'í, 6.11
      when parents are Bahá'í, 6.11-6.14
      when parents are non-Bahá'í, 3.20, 6.10-6.11
excusing, from school for Holy day observance, 9.12, 9.36

fifteen, age of, 6.13-6.14, 9.12
      fasting begins at, 6.13, 9.12
      formal declaration at, not mandatory, 6.14
      NSA letter to children at, 6.14
Holy day preparations with, 9.6
at Nineteen Day Feast, 9.26-9.27
relationship of, with parents, 11.5
role of
      this generation, 7.20
      in teaching, 7.20-7.22, 8.9
service, period of, 7.21, 8.10
service of, on committees, 3.19-3.20, 8.2, 8.3
status of, if parents are Bahá'í, 6.11-6.14
youth, administrative rights of, 3.19-3.20
      removal of, 15.10
youth, involvement of, in social and economic development, 13.12, 13.16, 13.22
youth, participation of, 3.19-3.20
youth, training of, 11.10

enrollment of, 6.6-6.7, 7.57
teaching, 7.50, 7.53, 7.56-7.57

relationship of Bahá'ís to, 15.27
rental of, for Bahá'í functions, 14.19
wedding at, 16.19-16.20

contrast between Bahá'ís and society, 8.3, 8.15
disintegration of, 8.1
materialism of, 8.1
moribund present order of, 1.5
world's equilibrium upset, 1.1

assigning goals and activities to, 7.25
authority of, 3.2-3.4, 3.18
children and youth on, 3.19-3.20, 8.2, 8.3
decisions of, subject to Assembly approval, 3.3
functioning of, as corporate body, corporate spirit, 3.20
meetings of, attendance at, 3.10
officers of, 3.20
refusal to serve on, 3.11-3.12
reports of, 3.23
      submitted annually, 2.5
responsible to LSA, 3.19
supervision of, 3.19
temporary committees, 3.3-3.4
terms of appointment of, 3.20
treasurer can be assisted by, 10.23
types of
      administrative, for sub-units of city, 3.20-3.21
      administrative, temporary, 3.3-3.4
      emergency, 3.2-3.3
      intercommunity, 3.21

      long-range projects, 3.21
      personal problems, 4.12, 15.6
      public information, 3.21, 3.36-3.37
      temporary administrative, 3.3-3.4

and avoiding secrecy when possible, 4.15
of certain information, 3.22
      civil law pertaining to, 3.27-3.28
      financial records, 10.12-10.13, 10.16
      reconciliation of, with upholding government regulations, 3.27-3.28, 15.25-15.26
of contributions to Fund, 3.9, 10.12-10.13, 10.16
of membership lists, 6.23
reminding believers of, 3.27
of Spiritual Assemblies' consultations, 1.24, 4.13-4.14, 4.15

experimentation in, 7.31

at annual meeting, 2.4
application and use of, 4.1-4.2, 7.54
      to activities affecting collective interests, 4.1-4.2
      in all things, 4.1
      at Nineteen Day Feast. See Feast, Nineteen Day
conditions for effective, 4.2-4.5
confession and, are different, 4.14-4.15
confidentiality of. See Confidentiality
divine assistance in, 4.3, 4.7
      praying for, 4.2, 4.3
fact-gathering stage of, 4.7, 4.10-4.11
      advice from experts,4.10-4.11
with individuals,4.10-4.12, 4.13
      personal consultation with LSA member, 4.12
      referring to other individuals, groups, or committees, 4.14
in LSAs, 4.1-4.21
      chairman's role in, 3.6-3.7
      decision must be accepted, 4.8-4.9
      interpreter may be used in, 4.14
      members only, present during, 4.13
      reconsideration of decision possible in, 4.10
      teaching accorded precedence in, 3.14-3.15
with LSA other than own discouraged, 17.11
nature and purpose of, 4.1-4.4
      to investigate truth, 4.4
      to settle differences without confrontation, 12.15
process of, 4.4-4.8
reaching a decision in
      motion not required for, 4.8
      no abstention or dissenting votes, 4.8
      "Robert's Rules" have no authority, 3.7
      unanimity is ideal, 4.7-4.8
      voting can be used, 4.7-4.8
use of spiritual principles in, 4.4, 4.7
youth must become skilled at, 9.27

involvement of, in social and economic development, 13.2
collaboration of, with Spiritual Assemblies, 1.4, 7.3, 7.41-7.44
relationship of, to administrative work, 1.21, 4.13, 7.41-7.44

legal aspects relating to, 3.32-3.33
letterhead for, 3.25
retaining copies of outgoing, 3.25
responsibility for review of, 3.26
tone of, 3.26

list of, 7.62

'Abdu'l-Bahá and, 5.1
continuity of, 5.1-5.2
Day of the, 9.1, 9.4
firmness in, 8.10
Greater and Lesser, 5.1
power of, 5.1, 8.10
protection of, 1.22
uniqueness of, 1.2

as illness, 5.14, 5.15
meaning of, 5.12-5.13
nature of, 5.13-5.14
reporting, 5.16
response to, 5.12-5.17

Auxiliary Boards for protection and, 5.16-5.17
disowning, 16.16
expulsion of, 5.13, 6.2
on the Internet, 5.16
LSA response to, 5.16
mail from, 5.16
reading literature by, 5.15
response of believers to, 5.14-5.15, 5.16, 15.13
shunning, 5.12, 5.13, 5.14-5.15, 15.13

importance of checking, 6.15

election of prisoners to LSAs, 2.12, 7.63-7.64
referring matters of, to civil authorities, 3.28
teaching prisoners, 7.63-7.66

offering, 4.18-4.21
suppressing, 8.14

participation in, 9.31
participation in abrogated practices, 9.31

body, donation of, to medical science, 18.10
euthanasia, 18.11
gifts and deeds in memory of deceased, 18.13
life after, 18.15-18.16
memorial gatherings, 18.12-18.13
registration of, 6.21-6.22
at sea, 18.12
suicide, 18.10-18.11

charitable
      contributions to charity, 10.35-10.36
      LSA's obligation toward, 3.16
      participation in charitable organizations, 12.14-12.16
      raising funds for, with non-Bahá'ís, 10.32-10.33
demonstrating belief in peace by, 8.16
demonstrating independence of Faith through, 9.32
establishment of institutions and good works on holy days, 9.7-9.8
humanitarian activities and service, 8.11-8.12
spiritual progress and, 10.4-10.5, 10.8, 10.28

importance of, 1.6-1.7, 7.4-7.5, 7.6, 7.10, 7.20, 7.29-7.30, 7.36-7.37, 8.2, 11.11-11.12
meaning of, 11.17

avoiding, 8.8
remedy for, 1.9-1.10, 3.13

administrative rights, loss of, affects procedure for, 15.12, 16.24-16.26, 17.4-17.5
annulment, 17.5, 17.24
application of only one party required for, 17.4
civil and Bahá'í, relationship between, 16.21, 17.16-17.22
discouraged, 17.1-17.2, 17.3, 17.9
divorce agreement, 17.18-17.20
      financial support after, 17.18-17.21
      LSA can help reach, 17.18-17.20
      obligation to obey, 17.19, 17.21
effects of, 17.1
grounds for, 17.2-17.3, 17.9
patience, year of. See Waiting
permissibility of, 17.1-17.2
remarriage after, 16.21, 17.22
responsibility of couple toward, 17.12-17.16
role of LSA in, 17.5-17.12, 17.22-17.24
      assisting in arrangement of terms, 17.5-17.6
      counseling, 17.5-17.6
      deepening believers in understanding of marriage, 17.1, 17.9
      determining if antipathy exists, 17.2, 17.5
      jurisdictional questions, 17.11-17.12

      notifying authorities of abuse or neglect, 17.10-17.11
      obligation to consider application, 17.l6
      reporting to NSA, 17.23
      setting date for beginning of year of waiting, 17.7-17.12
      trying to reconcile couple, 17.7, 17.9, 17.10
waiting (patience), year of, 17.3-17.4, 17.12
      conditions for establishing, 17.2, 17.3-17.5
      dating or romantic involvement during, 17.14-17.15
      extension of, not permitted, 17.23
      financial support during, 17.10, 17.12-17.13
      infidelity during, 17.13-17.14
      initiation of civil divorce during, 16.21
      period of, cannot be shortened, 17.9, 17.16
      period of, unnecessary in some circumstances, 17.4-17.5, 17.13-17.14, 17.24
      period of separation may be set first, 17.7-17.8
      physical separation required, 17.4
      purpose of, 17.3
      reconciliation to be attempted during, 17.3, 17.12
      setting dates of, 17.2, 17.7-17.12
      termination of, 17.16
      voiding of, through sexual relations, reconciliation, etc., 17.15

portrayal of Manifestations of God in, 5.8-5.9
workshops, 7.21

of adults, 11.11-11.12
age to begin, 11.3, 11.5, 11.12
Bahá'í scholarship, 11.14-11.17
      review of, 5.2-5.3
of children, 8.9, 11.3-11.6, 11.7, 11.8, 11.9-11.10, 11.12
definition of, 11.1
of daughters, more necessary than that of sons, 11.4
duties of fathers toward, 11.4-11.5
and elimination of illiteracy, 3.12
instructional methods, 11.6-11.7, 11.18-11.19, 13.26-13.27
      Bahá'í curriculum, 11.6-11.7, 11.18-11.19, 13.26-13.27
      groups taught according to capacity, 11.7
      parables, 11.8
LSA obligations toward, 9.12, 11.3-11.6
men and women to follow same curriculum, 11.2, 11.4
nature of, 11.1-11.3, 11.10
parental obligations toward, 9.12, 11.4-11.5
purpose and results of, 11.1-11.3
spiritual, Core Curriculum for, 11.22-11.23
subjects to be studied, 11.13-11.14
      arts, crafts, and sciences, 11.2, 11.3, 11.5, 11.10
      basic subjects, 11.2
      drama, 11.13
      Funds, Bahá'í, 10.27-10.28

      history of the Faith, 11.3, 11.11
      languages, 11.3, 11.5
      morals and conduct, 11.5, 11.9
      music, 11.13
      prayers, memorization of, 11.9, 11.12
      reading Sacred Writings, 11.3
      reading and writing, 11.4, 11.5
      religion, 11.8
      teaching the Cause, 11.3, 11.10, 11.11
      teachings of the Faith, 11.4
      technology, 11.5
      useful knowledge and sciences, 11.2, 11.8
      world citizenship, 11.10
of three kinds, 11.1
of youth, 7.21, 7.56, 8.9, 11.3, 11.5-11.6, 11.10-11.11

acceptance of election to LSA, 3.10-3.11
      importance of, 3.10
      refusal to serve, 3.11-3.12
annual, 2.8
by-elections for vacancies, 2.22-2.23, 3.13
      to replace absent member, 3.13
      to replace one who has resigned, 2.19
counting ballots in, 2.17
date of. 2.1-2.2
      fifteen days' notice of, 2.2, 2.3
      First Day of Ridván, 2.1-2.2, 9.10
      for first formation, 2.1-2.2
      for lapsed LSAs, 2.1-2.2
declaring ballots invalid in, 2.17
eligibility to participate in, 2.3, 2.10-2.13
      age of voters, 2.10
      Auxiliary Board members and assistants, 2.10
      Hands of the Cause, 2.10
      mentally ill, 2.13
      newly enrolled Bahá'ís, 2.11
      newly transferred Bahá'ís, 2.12, 6.16-6.17
      prisoners, 2.12, 6.7
      residency requirements and, 2.10-2.11
      students, 2.11
      withdrawals and reinstatements and, 2.13
joint declaration, 2.20-2.21
      re-formation by, 2.21
of Local Spiritual Assembly
      importance of participation in, 1.9
      preservation of ballots from, 2.17-2.18
      must occur on first day of Ridván, 2.1-2.2
      reporting results of, to NSA, 2.3, 2.19-2.20
      validation of, by NSA, 2.18
      without a quorum, 2.18
NSA reviews results of, 2.19-2.20
number of members to be elected, 1.1, 2.1, 2.14
obligatory, 2.1
officers, election of, 2.18, 3.5-3.6
participation in
      by community, 2.6-2.7, 8.2
      not an obligation, 2.13
      sacred responsibility of, 2.13

process of, 2.6-2.24
of Regional Bahá'í Councils, 1.13-1.14
residency requirements for voting in, 2.10-2.12
spirit and character of, 2.6-2.7
tellers in, 2.3-2.4, 2.6
voting rights. See Law(s), Bahá'í
voting and tallying, 2.4
      ballots, absentee, 2.14-2.15
      ballots, counting, 2.17
      ballots, invalid, 2.17
      ballots from non-English-speaking Bahá'ís, 2.15
      ballots, preservation of, 2.17-2.18
      confidentiality of votes, 2.7
      deciding for whom to vote, 2.6-2.7
      number of votes to cast, 2.14
      plurality of votes, 2.3
      results, acceptance of, 2.18
      tellers, appointment of, 2.3-2.4
      tellers, duties of, 2.6
      tellers' report, 2.4, 2.17
      ties, breaking, 2.15
      voting for self, 2.14
      voting or membership list to be provided, 2.4

relationship of, to Assembly development, 1.4-1.5, 3.16, 7.27-7.28

collaborative efforts of, 12.2-12.3
contacting prominent organizations/people in, 12.11-12.16
diplomatic work of, 12.2
international initiatives in, 12.21
new stage in work of, 12.1
obtaining NSA permission to contact federal government in, 12.10-12.11
obtaining Regional Council's permission to contact state legislatures and governors, 12.10-12.11
Office of Public Information, 12.29
Office of the Secretariat for, 12.26-12.27
purpose of efforts in, 12.2
UN Office, 12.28-12.29
U.S. Bahá'í Refugee Office, 12.27-12.28

family as nation in miniature, 8.16
prayer for, 7.20
responsibility of husband to support wife and children in, 17.13
teaching and, 7.19-7.20

age when responsible for, 6.13

exemptions from, 15.35-15.36
ordinances concerning, 15.34
ordinances not yet binding in West, 15.35
smoking during, 15.35

administrative portion of, 9.14, 9.23-9.25
      chairperson for, 9.24
      consultation, quality of, critical, 9.23-9.24
      sharing of messages during, 3.25, 9.14
      as time for constructive criticism and deliberation, 9.23
      LSA treatment of suggestions from, 3.25, 9.23
      recommendations from, 3.25
      sharing of teaching tips during, 7.17
      treasurer's duties during, 10.19
attendance at, 9.25-9.31
      by Bahá'í visitors, 6.15, 9.26, 9.27
      by Bahá'í children and youth, 9.26-9.27
      improvement of, 7.24
      by non-Bahá'ís, 9.26, 9.29-9.30
      by one who has lost voting rights, 15.11-15.12
behavior of children during, 9.27-9.28
dates of, 9.13
devotional portion of, 9.14, 9.15, 9.22-9.23
      music during, 9.28
evolution of, 9.14-9.15, 9.17
as institution, 9.15
language(s) used during, 8.8, 9.24-9.25
as link to entire Administrative Order, 9.15
music, use of, during, 9.14, 9.17, 9.28
observance of, 8.9
      business promotion during, 10.32
      division into districts or subunits for, 9.20
      by groups or isolated believers, 9.19-9.20
      reception or supper before, 9.21-9.22
      sale of items during, 9.28, 10.32
      three portions of, 9.14, 9.21-9.25
      variety in, 9.14
preparation for, 9.15-9.16
places appropriate for holding, 9.20-9.21, 14.4
prevention of segregation in, 9.20, 9.24-9.25
purpose and significance of, 8.11, 9.13-9.14, 9.15, 9.16, 9.17-9.19
scheduling, 9.13, 9.19-9.20
separate observances for Naw-Rúz and, 9.1
smoking during, 9.29
social portion of, 9.14, 9.25
      cultural diversity reflected in, 9.14
      hospitality during, 9.15-9.17
      refreshments beforehand do not replace, 9.22
      speeches and talks during, 9.14

accounting system, 10.18. 10.25-10.26
annual report, 10.18
Arc Projects Fund, 10.6
audit, 10.17, 10.26
Bahá'í Center and. See Bahá'í Center
budget, 10.18, 10.19, 10.25
      submission of, to NSA, 10.20

budgeting, accounting, and auditing procedures, 10.24-10.25
business ventures, 19.6
charity
      contributions to, 10.9-10.10, 10.32-10.33
      local, not usually a national responsibility, 10.3
      raising funds for, 10.32-10.33
confidentiality of records of, 10.12-10.13, 10.26
contributions. See Funds, Bahá'í
debts, individual, 10.14
earmarked funds, 10.14-10.15, 14.16
education about, 10.7, 10.19-10.20, 10.22
endowments, establishment of, 10.26, 14.5
expenses, reimbursement for, 10.34
Huqúqu'lláh, 10.2, 15.39
investment of funds, 10.21
land grants or gifts, 10.26-10.27, 14.16-14.17
misuse of, 10.22-10.23
personal and Bahá'í, commingling of, 10.22
relationship of non-Bahá'ís to, 10.7, 10.8-10.9
social and economic development and, 13.5, 13.8-13.9, 13.12, 13.14-13.16
tax-exemption, 3.33, 10.39-10.40, 14.14
      Federal tax ID number, 3.33, 10.40-10.43
      and quid pro quo contributions, 10.42-10.43
      and receipting contributions, 10.41-10.42
      unrelated business income, 10.40
treasurer, duties of. See Treasurer; Treasury

consultation and, 4.5-4.6, 4.11
hostile criticism and, 4.19
review and, 5.2-5.3
tempered by moderation, wisdom, 4.16, 4.17

commingling personal funds and, 10.22
contributions to
      anonymous, 10.33-10.34
      appeals for, 10.12, 10.28-10.33
      Automatic Contribution System, 10.35
      Bahá'ís in good standing may make, 10.8-10.10
      Bahá'u'lláh's attitude toward, 10.10-10.11
      borrowing to make, discouraged, 10.14
      children may make, 10.9
      confidentiality of, 10.12-10.13
      earmarking, 10.14-10.15, 10.21-10.22, 10.38-10.39
      every believer can make, 10.8, 10.9, 10.13
      education about spiritual principles related to, 10.16-10.17
      as element in devotional life, 10.28
      fountain, be like, 10.11
      gifts and, in kind, 10.33
      of insurance and securities, 10.35
      of memorials for special occasions, 10.34-10.35
      from non-Bahá'ís, 10.9-10.10, 13.15, 14.17
      personal items, sale or donation of, for, 10.31-10.32
      receipts for, 10.16, 10.41-10.43
      regularity of, 10.4, 10.13

      responsibility, obligation to make, 10.7, 10.13, 10.28
      rewards for making, 10.7, 10.11
      as sacred obligation, 10.7
      sacrificial spirit of, 10.7, 10.13, 10.29-10.30
      spiritual privilege of making, 10.7, 10.9, 10.29
      surest way to lift burden of humanity is, 10.3
      trusts, wills, and planned gifts, 10.35
      universal participation in, 10.8, 10.12, 10.13-10.14
      voluntary nature of, 10.10-10.11, 10.12
      withholding privilege of making, 10.9
education about, 10.7, 10.19-10.20, 10.22, 10.26-10.28
established by 'Abdu'l-Bahá, 10.1
fund-raising efforts, 10.27, 10.29-10.33
      appeal but do not coerce, 10.12, 10.29
      auctions, 10.30-10.31
      charity, raising funds for, 10.32-10.33
      lotteries and games of chance, 10.31
      pledges, 10.24, 10.29
      sale of personal items, 10.31
misuse of, 10.22-10.23
nature and purpose of, 10.1-10.6, 10.10-10.15
necessity of, 10.1
specific
      Arc Projects, 10.6, 10.44
      Continental, 10.3, 10.5
      International, 10.3, 10.5-10.6
      Local, 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4
      National, 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4-10.5, 10.10, 10.11, 10.12
            as bedrock, 10.4, 10.5
            education about, 10.4
            precedence of, 3.31, 10.3, 10.4
            responsibilities of NSA toward, 10.16
            support of, 10.2, 10.4, 10.11, 10.12, 10.13-10.15
      Persian Relief Fund, 10.10
support of, 10.2-10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, 10.8, 10.13
universal participation in giving to, 10.8, 10.12
use of, 10.2, 10.3, 10.9-10.10

attending non-Bahá'í service for Bahá'í, 18.2
memorial gatherings, 18.12-18.13
official Bahá'í service
      for Bahá'ís only, 18.2
      for believers deprived of administrative rights, 18.2

fund-raising with lotteries, etc., 10.31

contacts with, 3.28, 12.10-12.16
land grants from, 14.17
loyalty to, 12.6-12.7
obedience to, 19.8-19.9

as registered trademark, 5.11
use of, 5.10-5.11

on gravestones, 18.9-18.10
in music, 5.8

electing officers of, 2.22
functioning of, 2.22
      guidelines for, 2.22
      observance of Feast by, 9.18-9.19
      registration of, 2.22
      relationship of, to Auxiliary Boards, 1.20-1.21

effect of Shoghi Effendi's passing on, 5.2
Universal House of Justice and, as twin institutions, 5.2

and eligibility for Assembly membership, 2.9

and Continental Funds, 10.5
and decision to expel or reinstate Covenant-breaker, 5.13
functions of, 1.16
eligibility of, for election or other appointments, 2.10
as members of International Teaching Center, 1.18
obligations of, 1.16, 5.1-5.2
relationship of, to Continental Boards of Counselors, 1.18
works of, reviewed in Holy Land, 5.5

calling for pledges to finance building of, 10.29
endowment of land for, 14.5
relationship of, with Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, 14.3-14.4
rental of, 14.17-14.18
income from, 14.17

administrative rights and attendance at, 15.12
dates of, 9.1, 9.7
list of, 9.1, 9.33
non-Bahá'í, attitude toward, 9.7
observance of, 9.5, 9.7-9.8, 9.36
      Bahá'í administrative activities and, 9.6, 9.11-9.12
      Bahá'í day, definition of, 9.1, 9.6, 9.13, 9.19
      Bahá'í institutions and, 9.5, 9.6, 9.9-9.10
      Bahá'í-owned businesses and, 9.11
      daylight savings time and, 9.6
      establishing institutions and doing good works on, 9.6, 9.8
      law of Kitáb-i-Aqdas on, 9.7
      operation of Radio Bahá'í during, 9.11
      school, excusing from, for, 9.12, 9.36
      suspension of work for, 9.1, 9.6, 9.8-9.11
preparations for, 9.6
specific Holy days
      Ascension of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, 9.1
      Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh, 9.1, 9.3, 9.9
      Ayyám-i-Há, 9.1, 9.5

      Birth of the Báb, 9.1, 9.4
      Birth of Bahá'u'lláh, 9.1, 9.4
      Day of the Covenant, 9.1, 9.4
      Declaration of the Báb, 9.1, 9.2-9.3
      the Fast, 9.1, 9.5
      Martyrdom of the Báb, 9.1, 9.3, 9.9
      Naw-Rúz, 9.1, 9.6, 9.7, 9.31-9.32
      Ridván Festival, 9.1, 9.2
specific special events
      International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination, 9.33
      International Literacy Day, 9.33
      International Day of Peace, 9.33
      Race Unity Day, 9.33
      UN day for Women's Rights and International Peace, 9.33
      World Environment Day, 9.33
      World Habitat Day, 9.33
      World Health Day, 9.33
      World Religion Day, 9.33

Bahá'í teachings on, 15.18-15.19
enrollment of homosexuals, 6.8-6.9
subject to administrative sanctions, 15.16

Spiritual Assemblies to evolve into, 2.1, 6.21

cohabitation, 15.16, 15.17-15.18
during year of waiting, 17.15-17.16

maintaining corporate status, 3.33-3.34

distinction between institution and, 2.8-2.9, 15.4-15.5
freedom of, to follow dictates of conscience, 10.36
initiative of, 1.10-1.11, 7.13-7.15, 7.26, 8.1
isolated, 3.36
relationships of
      to Auxiliary Board members and their assistants, 1.20, 15.5
      to Continental Counselors, 1.18
      to LSA, 1.7-1.12, 15.5
      to NSA, 1.10
role of, in social and economic development, 13.3
solicitation of funds by, 10.30

permanent, 11.26-11.27

joint Feasts, 9.30-9.31
obtaining permission to hold, 3.21
purpose of, 3.21
sponsorship of, 3.21

of LSA, 2.24-2.25, 14.16
of NSA, 2.25
in relation to extension teaching goals, 7.26
requesting clarification and/or guidelines for establishing, 2.24

administration of, 15.4-15.8
      advisory function distinct from enforcement, 15.10
      approach to, 15.4-15.5
      civil authorities and, 15.25-15.26
      considering each case on own merits, 15.7, 15.8
      due process, 15.6-15.7
      no fixed procedures for, 15.6
application of, 15.1-15.40
      to citizens of China, 15.30
      gradual, 15.3
      as highest means for maintenance of order, 15.2
Covenant-breakers. See Covenant
      disobedience, effect of, 6.1, 15.32
fasting, 15.33-15.35
Huqúqu'lláh, 15.35-15.36
ignorance of, 15.8-15.9
laws not yet binding in West, 15.38-15.40
nature and purpose of, 8.4, 15.1-15.3
obedience to, 15.31-15.32

      disobedience, effect of, 6.1, 15.32
      demonstrating faith by, 15.1
      effect of, 15.31-15.32
      importance of, after law made binding, 15.31
      as source of true liberty, 15.2
      between individual and God, 15.7, 15.33-15.37
prayer, 15.33
progressive application of, 15.3
reading sacred writings daily, 15.33
role of LSA in upholding, 15.3-15.16
violations of
      alcohol, use, sale, or serving of, 15.16, 15.19-15.23
      attitude toward, 15.5-15.6
      civil and criminal offenses, 15.16, 15.24-15.26
      cohabitation, 15.16, 15.17-15.18
      consequences of violating, 6.1-6.2
      consultation regarding, 4.11-4.12
      denial or concealment of faith, 12.7, 16.29
      disunifying behavior, 15.16, 15.29
      drug use, 15.16, 15.28
      flagrant, LSA must not ignore, 15.4
      fraudulent or irresponsible behavior, 15.16, 15.29
      gambling, 15.16, 15.28
      homosexuality, 15.16, 1518-15.19
      immorality, blatant and flagrant, 15.8, 15.16-15.17
      list of, 15.16
      by LSA members, 3.14
      membership in other religious organizations, 15.8, 15.16, 15.27
      membership in secret societies, 15.16, 15.27-15.28
      mental illness and, 15.29-15.30
      physical or sexual abuse, 15.26-15.27
      political activity, 15.16, 15.23-15.24
      refusal to serve when elected, 3.11-3.12
      reporting of, by individuals, 15.5
      withdrawing in order to evade law, 6.20-6.21, 15.9

eligibility of members of, to vote and hold office, 2.10
role of, in teaching, 7.41-7.44

"Bahá'í World Faith," use of term, 12.24
copyright information, 5.11, 5.25-5.27
Greatest Name, use of, in, 5.10-5.11
inaccurate information in, 5.2-5.3
newsletters and bulletins, 3.30-3.31, 15.12
      promotion of private business in, 3.31
      publication of, by individuals, 3.30
Persian, 5.5
publication of, at local level, 3.30
review and supervision of, 3.30, 5.3-5.4
      through channels of Administrative Order, 5.3-5.4

      criteria for, 5.4
      emergence from obscurity calls for greater care in, 5.3
      misunderstanding/misrepresentation prevented by, 5.3
      responsibilities of LSA and NSA in, 5.3-5.5
sale and distribution of, 5.12
stimulation and encouragement of, 3.16
written by Covenant-breakers, 5.15-5.16

aided by Spirit of God, 1.2
appealing decisions of, 15.13-15.14
association of, with other organizations, 12.15-12.16
authority of, 1.20, 7.42
      delegation of, 3.18-3.19
      divinely conferred, 1.10
Bahá'í community and, relationship between, 8.6
      as child to parents, 1.9
      cooperation, 4.11
      criticism of LSA, 4.10
      importance of understanding, 1.9
      obedience, 1.7, 1.11, 4.10
      shepherds and flock, 8.6, 8.8
cannot be formed in prisons, 2.12
challenging/criticizing decisions of, 1.9-1.10, 4.9-4.10, 4.18-4.21
as channels of divine guidance, 7.3
committees of, 4.12
      emergency, 3.22-3.3
      temporary, 3.3-3.4
communications of, 3.22-3.31, 9.36
      "privileged," 3.27-3.28
      tone of, 3.25-3.26
consultation of. See Consultation
cooperation with other LSAs. See Intercommunity activities
correspondence of, 3.24-3.28
delegation of tasks by, 4.12
dissolution of, 2.23-2.24
declaring a vacancy in, 2.9
duties, goals, responsibilities, and objectives of, 1.4, 1.5, 1.9, 3.14-3.17, 8.4
      according precedence to teaching, 3.14-3.15, 7.12
      arranging meetings, 3.16, 7.22, 8.2
      capitalizing on talents of all, 3.17-3.18
      consultation on Fund, 10.19
      developing Bahá'í community, 8.7
      education, 3.16, 7.37, 11.3-11.6, 11.22-11.23, 18.15
      ensuring observance of Holy days, 9.12
      ensuring officers carry out responsibilities, 3.6
      foster love, unity, concord, 8.4, 8.7-8.8
      goals suggested by Universal House of Justice, 7.23-7.25
      handling violations of Bahá'í law, 14.6-15.8
      helping the less fortunate, 3.16
      making and executing plans, 7.42
      protection, 3.15, 8.6
      registering marriages, births, burials, 6.21-6.22
      supervising publication of Bahá'í literature, 3.16, 5.3-5.4
      teaching, 7.3, 7.12, 7.17, 7.22-7.26, 7.41-7.42. See also Teaching
      treasury, 3.9

      upholding Bahá'í law, 15.3-15.16
      winning confidence, affection of those served, 3.15
efficiency of, 8.7
election of. See Election/formation process (LSA)
eligibility for election to, 2.3
evolving nature of, 1.3-1.5
      embryos of institutions ordained by Bahá'u'lláh, 1.3
finances of. See Finances
formation of, for first time, 2.20-2.21
functioning of, 8.2, 8.3, 8.6
functioning when difficulty getting quorum. See temporary committee
the Fund and, 10.16-10.23
as House of Justice, 2.1, 6.21
importance of, 2.1, 8.6
      appointed of God, 2.7
      basic administrative unit, 1.3, 8.6
      to growth of worldwide community, 1.7
      as an institution, 1.10
      ordained by God, 1.1
      as source of progress, 1.2, 8.6
incorporation of, 2.6, 3.31-3.34
insurance coverage of, 3.34
involvement of, in social and economic development, 13.2-13.3
jeopardized, 2.23-2.24
jurisdiction of, 1.12
      boundary changes to be approved by NSA, 2.11
      civil or criminal matters and, 15.25-15.26
      consultation by believers with other LSAs discouraged, 17.11-17.12
      divorce and, 17.11-17.12
      in intercommunity activities, 3.21
      over properties and activities in own area, 14.16
      in relation to literature review, 5.4
      over subunits or districts, 9.20
Local fund as adjunct to, 10.1
maturity of, 8.6, 8.7
meetings of
      agenda for, 3.22-3.23
      attendance at, 3.2, 2.10-3.11, 3.12-3.13
      convening, 1.3
      delegation of authority between, 3.2
      emergency committee, 3.2-3.3
      first, 3.1
      frequency of, 1.3, 3.3, 3.6
      majority vote of quorum sufficient, 3.2
      quorum needed to convene, 3.2
      smoking during, 3.4-3.5
members of
      attendance of, 3.10-3.13
      attitudes and role of, 1.5-1.7, 1.9, 3.11, 8.7
      deepening of, 1.6
      individual members not important, 1.8
      love among, 8.7
      number of, 1.1
      qualifications of, 2.7-2.10
      qualities and conduct of, 2.7-2.8, 8.6-8.7
      removal of, 3.14
      resignation of, 2.19
      as Trustees of the Merciful, 1.6, 3.26
      violation of Bahá'í laws by, 3.14
obligation to form, 2.1

officers of, 3.1, 3.5-3.10. See also Officers (LSA)
as overall coordinator of decentralized system, 3.21
recognition of, by NSA, 2.18
records of, 3.22, 3.38
re-formation of, 2.21, 3.34
refusal to serve on, 3.11-3.12
relationships of
      to Auxiliary Board members, 1.20, 1.22, 1.24-1.25, 7.3, 7.41
      to community, 10.27
      to Continental Counselors, 1.20, 7.3, 7.32, 7.41
      to government, 12.10-12.11
      to individual believers, 1.5, 1.7-1.12, 7.17, 8.6, 8.7, 12.13-12.14, 15.5
      to other LSAs, 1.14
      to NSA, 1.12, 1.14-1.15, 7.22, 12.10-12.11, 12.14, 12.16, 15.4, 15.9
            activities of LSA subordinated to those of NSA, 1.15, 3.31
removal from, 3.14
representation of minorities on, 2.9
respect for, 1.10, 4.11-4.12
responsibility of Bahá'ís in locality to elect, 2.2
spiritual foundation of
      'Abdu'l-Bahá assists, 1.2
      under guidance and protection of God, 2.8
systematic planning by, 3.17
tax-exempt status of, 3.33, 10.39-10.40
      Federal ID number, 3.33, 10.40
      unrelated business income, 10.40
uniqueness of, 1.1
unity within, 8.7

principle of oneness of, 11.10, 13.1, 13.19
transformation of, 11.22
unity of, 8.3-8.5

administrative rights, possession of, required for, 15.16, 16.27-16.28
annulment of, 17.5, 17.24
ceremony(ies), 16.6, 16.18-16.23
      attending, when marriage is contrary to Bahá'í law, 16.29
      for Bahá'í and non-Bahá'í, 16.19-16.20
      civil, may also be required, 16.21
      holding in place of worship of another religion, 16.19
      nature of, 16.21-16.22
      of non-Bahá'ís, participation in, 9.32-9.33
      not required of new believers already married, 16.18
      for two Bahá'ís, 16.18-16.19
      for two non-Bahá'ís, 16.20
      witnesses to, 16.5, 16.6
companionate, 6.9
      cohabitation, 15.16, 15.17-15.18
      enrollment of persons engaged in, 6.9
consummation of, 16.22-16.23

desirable but not required, 16.1
engagement, 16.1-16.3
      breaking of, 16.3
      period of, 16.2-16.3
      Persian believers and, 16.2-16.3
      purpose of, 16.1-16.2
laws of, that are not yet binding in West, 15.38-15.39, 16.2
responsibilities of LSA toward, 16.3-16.7
      checklist of, 16.6-16.7
      choosing witnesses, 16.5
      counseling and guidance, 16.4
      deepening believers in understanding of, 16.3-16.4, 17.1
      ensuring civil and Bahá'í requirements are met, 16.5
      notifying civil authorities of marital abuse or child neglect, 15.26
      registration of marriages, 6.21-6.22
      reporting violations of Bahá'í marriage laws, 16.5
parental consent for, 16.6, 16.7-16.18
      adopted children and, 16.13
      foster parents and, 16.13-16.14
      locating or contacting distant or missing parents and, 16.10-16.14
      must be freely given, 16.6, 16.8, 16.10
      not required in some circumstances, 16.11, 16.13, 16.16-16.18
      parents can change their mind, 16.10-16.11
      oral or written, 16.8-16.9
      purpose of, 16.7
      remarriage requires, 16.9
      removal of parental rights and, 16.17-16.18
      spiritual importance of, 16.7
      verification of, 16.6, 16.9
      withholding of, 16.14-16.16
purpose of, 16.1
reaffirmation vows of, 16.20-16.21
reception, prohibition of alcohol at, 16.22
remarriage after divorce, 16.21, 17.22
sanctity of, 16.1, 17.2, 17.3
soul mates, idea of, 18.16
violation of laws of, 16.23-16.30
      administrative rights and, 15.11, 15.12, 16.5, 16.24-16.29
      correction of, with belated ceremony, 16.23-16.24, 16.26-16.28
      correction of, with civil divorce, 16.23-16.24, 16.28-16.29
      ignorance may excuse, 16.23
      by parents of bride or groom, 16.25-16.26
      reporting of, to NSA, 16.5-16.6
      withdrawing to evade law, 6.21, 15.9, 16.26
vow of, 16.22

institutions auxiliary to, 14.1-14.3
land for
      donation of, 10.26-10.27
      non-Bahá'í gifts of, not permitted, 14.17
relationship of, to Hazíratu'l-Quds, 14.3-14.4
as spiritual center of Bahá'í community, 13.1, 13.5, 14.2

"Bahá'í World Faith," use of, 12.24
letters to editor, 12.22
national, 12.21-12.22

Office of External Affairs, 12.21-12.24
Office of Public Information, 3.36, 3.37, 12.21
Persian language, 12.22
public information representatives and committees, 3.36-3.37
publicity should be dignified, 12.23-12.24
references to the Faith as offshoot of Islam, 12.24
relationship with
      at local level, 12.22
      at national, international, and state levels, 12.21-12.22
scrutiny by, to be expected, 12.22-12.23
use of Bahá'í terms with, 12.23
use of pictures of 'Abdu'l-Bahá in, 12.24

administrative rights. See Law(s), Bahá'í
of Bahá'ís with unknown addresses, 2.12
boundary changes may affect, 2.11
declaration and enrollment, 6.2-6.14
      basic conditions for, 6.3, 7.34-7.36
      of children of Bahá'ís, 6.11-6.12
      of children and youth of non-Bahá'ís, 6.9-6.11
      of Chinese, 6.6-6.7
      of homosexuals, 6.8-6.9
      of Iranians and other Middle Easterners, 6.4-6.5
      of Israelis, 6.5-6.6
      of members of secret organizations, 6.9-6.10
      of members of other religious organizations, 6.9-6.10
      of mentally ill or mentally handicapped, 6.7-6.8
      of persons engaged in politics, 6.9-6.10
      of persons whose behavior is contrary to Bahá'í law, 6.1-6.2, 6.8-6.10
      postponement of, 6.10
      of prisoners, 2.12, 6.7, 7.63-7.66
      recording of, 6.4
      of southeast Asians, 6.4
directories and list(s) of
      confidentiality of, 6.23
      mail returns, verifying addresses of, 2.12, 6.22, 6.24
      maintenance of, 6.22-6.24
      protection of, 6.23
      removal of names from, 2.12, 6.23
      sharing of, with other Bahá'í institutions, 6.23
      use of, for business purposes not permitted, 6.23
      expulsion from, for Covenant-breaking, 6.2. See also Covenant-breakers; Covenant-breaking
      identification cards, 6.3-6.4, 6.14-6.15
      visitors without, must have status confirmed, 6.3, 6.15
reinstatement of, 2.13, 6.21
transfers of, 2.12, 6.15-6.18
      of Persians or other Middle Easterners, 6.16-6.18
      of Southeast Asians, 6.16
withdrawal from, 6.18-6.21
      to avoid Bahá'í law, 6.20-6.21
      inactivity not grounds for, 6.18, 6.19, 6.20
      must be approved by NSA, 6.18

effect of, on administrative rights, 15.29-15.30
and administrative service, 2.13, 15.29-15.30
effect of, on enrollment, 6.7-6.8
and eligibility for LSA election, 2.13

and parental consent for marriage, 16.16-16.17

definition of, for election purposes, 2.16
desirability of participation of, 2.9, 7.50, 8.8-8.9
discrimination in favor of, 2.15
Hispanics regarded as, 2.16
integration of, into Bahá'í community, 8.8-8.9
Persians not regarded as, 2.16
pioneers not regarded as, 2.16
representation of, in Bahá'í institutions, 2.9, 8.8-8.9
sex not regarded as, 2.16
teaching, 7.50-7.53
      African Americans, 7.50, 7.52-7.53
      Chinese, 7.50, 7.53, 7.56-7.57
      Eskimos, 7.50
      Indians, 7.50, 7.51-7.52
      Japanese, 7.50
      Jewish people, 7.50
      Muslims in the West, 7.59-7.61
      Southeast Asians, 7.58-7.59
      Spanish-speaking people, 7.50
ties in voting can be broken by, 2.15-2.16

access to, 3.22
of annual meeting, 2.3
approval of, 3.24
of confidential matters, 3.24, 4.13
confidentiality of, 4.13
Feast recommendations and decisions reported in, 3.25
format of, 3.23-3.24
preservation of, 3.22
privileged communications, 3.27-3.28

copyright information, 5.11
not setting obligatory prayers to, 5.8
standards for Bahá'í, 5.8
use of, 11.13
      during Feast, 9.14, 9.17, 9.28
      in teaching and deepening, 7.41

appealing decisions of, 15.13-15.14
authority of, 1.12-1.13, 3.3-3.4, 7.42
benefits of electing new members to, 2.9
collaboration of, with other NGOs at United Nations, 12.26-12.27
criticism of, 3.31, 4.18-4.21
as custodians of God's trust, 10.17

decentralization of, 1.13
diplomatic work of, 12.26
election of, 3.44-3.46
fiscal year of, 10.25
functions and powers of, 1.12, 1.14-1.15, 6.13, 7.42
importance of, as an institution, 1.12
insurance of, 3.34, 3.39-3.43
involvement of, in social and economic development, 13.2-13.3
jurisdiction of, 1.12, 1.14
role of, in literature review, 5.3-5.4
members of, must be elected properly, 2.9
National Fund as adjunct to, 10.1
obedience to, 1.12-1.13
Office of External Affairs, 12.26-12.29
      Office of the Secretary for, 12.26-12.27
      U.S. Bahá'í Refugee Office, 12.27-12.28
      United Nations Office, 12.28-12.29
Office of Public Information, 3.36, 12.29
opposition, response of, to, 12.3
qualifications for membership on, 2.7-2.9
relations of, with government, 12.3, 12.5-12.6
relationship of Aux. Board members to, 1.22-1.23, 7.41
relationship of, to individual believer, 1.10, 10.17-10.18
relationship of, to Continental Boards of Counselors, 1.18-1.19, 7.32, 7.41
relationship of, to LSAs, 1.12-1.13, 1.14-1.15, 3.31, 7.32-7.33, 10.4, 10.17-10.18, 15.9
relationship of, to Regional Bahá'í Councils, 1.13-1.14
respect for, 1.10
right of, to postpone LSA formation in certain cases, 2.1
tax-exempt status of, 10.39-10.40
teaching projects of, 7.33, 7.42
      contacting prominent people, 7.2, 12.3
and United Nations International Day of Peace, 9.34
treasury of, 10.4

chairman, 3.5, 3.6-3.7, 3.22, 9.24
dismissal of, 3.10
dissatisfaction with, 3.10
duties of, 3.6-3.9
election of, 2.20, 3.5-3.6
      duties may be discussed before, 3.5
      ballots cast by mail and telephone, 3.6

      by majority vote, 3.5
      result of each vote to be reported, 3.6
      vice-chair does not inherit chair, 3.7
may ask not to be elected, 3.5, 3.13-3.14
resignation, 3.13
secretary, 3.5, 3.7-3.9, 3.24, 3.26. See also Correspondence (LSA); Minutes
      assistance for, 3.8-3.9
      duties of, 3.7-3.9, 3.24, 3.26
      temporary, after annual election, 3.1
treasurer, 3.5, 3.9, 10.16, 10.17-10.19. See also Treasurer
vice-chairman, 3.5, 3.7

Bahá'í promotion of, 8.12, 12.16-12.21
demonstrating belief in, 8.16
influencing processes towards, 12.2
Lesser, 12.1, 12.16-12.18
Most Great
      enforcement of Bahá'í laws will result in, 12.16-12.17
      establishment of, 12.16-12.17
relation of oneness of mankind to, 11.10
Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh and, 12.15
UN International Day of, 9.33, 9.34
Women
      war will cease due to, 11.2

enrollment of, 6.4-6.5
Iranian believers
      integration of, into community, 8.8
      marriage laws and, 16.2-16.3, 16.21
      social and economic progress of, 13.2
Muslims in the West, 7.59-7.61
membership transfers of, 2.12, 6.4-6.5

consultation on, 4.10-4.12. See also Consultation
      with groups, committees, or individuals rather than LSA, 4.14

and loss of administrative rights, 15.2

deputization and, 7.47-7.48
homefront, 7.45-7.46
international, 7.46-7.47
obtaining funding for, 7.48
in sensitive countries, 7.49
traveling teaching, 7.48-7.49

enrollment of those engaged in, 6.9-6.10
non-involvement in, 12.5-12.6, 12.7-12.8, 12.9-12.10
      does not imply non-association with world, 12.10
      sanctions for violating principle of, 12.8, 15.16, 15.23-15.24

consultation, turning to God during, 4.3
dawn or morning sessions, 8.5
for the Dead, 18.3-18.4
in LSA meetings, 4.3
in Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, 14.1
memorization of, 11.12
preferability of revealed Word to made up, 11.12
obligatory, 15.33
reciting Tablets of Visitation, 9.8-9.9
setting of, to music, 5.8

freedom from, 7.52, 8.9, 8.13 12.5
racial, elimination of, 7.52

Auxiliary Boards for, 7.42
role of Auxiliary Boards in, 1.19-1.20, 7.42
role of Continental Boards of Counselors in, 1.19

alcohol consumption on Bahá'í-owned, 14.18
annual reports on, 14.19
income production from, 14.17
land for, 14.5, 14.15-14.16
providing for care and maintenance of, 10.18
rental of, to other organizations, 14.14, 14.17-14.18

Auxiliary boards for, 5.16-5.17
through review of Bahá'í literature and materials, 5.2-5.12
LSA's obligation toward, 15.4
role of Auxiliary Board members in, 1.19, 1.21, 5.16-5.17
role of Continental Boards of Counselors in, 1.19
role of Hands of the Cause in, 1.16-1.17

Office of Public Information, 12.29
public information representative, local, 3.21, 3.36-3.37, 12.29

definition of, 3.2
not required for election of LSA or for by-election, 2.18, 2.22
sufficiency of, to conduct LSA business, 3.2

characteristics of, 1.13
duties and responsibilities of, 3.45
election of, 1.13-1.14
obtaining permission of to contact state legislators and governors, 12.10-12.11
relationship of, to NSA, 1.13-1.14, 3.45

approval notices and, 5.7
authors should welcome, 5.6
committees for, 5.4
materials subject to, 5.4-5.5
necessity of, 5.3
purpose of, 5.2-5.3, 5.4
in relation to publisher's prerogatives, 5.4
standards and criteria for, 5.4

members of, 1.15
functions of, 1.15-1.16

attitude toward errors in, 5.3, 11.16
difficulties to be avoided in
      distortion of religious truth, 11.14-11.15
      disunity due to differences of opinion, 11.16
      extremes, 11.16
      fomenting discord, 11.16
      intellectual pride, 11.15
perfect understanding of Revelation impossible, 11.11, 11.16
qualities necessary for
      determination to grow in comprehension, 11.15
      loyalty, 11.16
      love for Faith, 11.15
      moderation, kindliness, tact, and wisdom, 11.16

      willingness to hear other views, 11.16
and teaching, 7.54
value of
      for development and consolidation, 11.14, 11.15-11.16
      potential to solve societal problems, 11.14

establishing, 3.32, 11.3-11.4, 11.6, 11.27, 13.3
government land grants for, 14.17
permanent, 11.26-11.27
primary and secondary, 11.17-11.19
regional, 11.26
rental of, to other organizations, 14.17
summer and winter, 7.6, 7.53, 11.19-11.20
      importance and purpose of, 11.19-11.20
      location of, 11.20

duties of, 3.7-3.9, 3.24, 3.26
      agenda, 3.22-3.23
      assistance in, 3.8-3.9, 3.26
      recording recommendations from Feast, 3.25
      watching for periodic committee reports, 3.23
temporary, after annual election, 3.1

list of, 7.62

during the Fast, 15.35
during meetings, 3.4-3.5, 9.29, 19.4-19.5

incorporating Bahá'í standards and values in, 13.1-13.2
basis for, 13.7
Continental Boards of Counselors, involvement of, in, 13.2, 13.5, 13.7, 13.14, 13.25
each community will be different, 13.8
development of human resources and, 13.22
direction of, 13.19-13.27
evaluation and monitoring of, 13.10, 13.13-13.14
evolution of, 13.20
      projects built on strong local communities, 13.4, 13.7
      spiritual precedes material, 13.5
      will benefit all society, 13.4
financing, 13.8, 13.20, 13.14-13.16
guidelines for, list of, 13.11-13.12
ideas and suggestions for, 13.3, 13.8, 13.16-13.18
      education, 13.18
      food, 13.17
      housing, 13.17-13.18
      illiteracy, elimination of, 13.3, 13.12
      supporting projects of other organizations, 13.12
      volunteerism, 13.17
integration of, 13.22-13.24
Iranian believers and, 13.2
LSAs, involvement of, in, 13.2-13.3, 13.5-13.6, 13.9, 13.10, 13.11, 13.13, 13.15

mandate for projects in, 13.1-13.5
NSAs, involvement of, in, 13.2-13.3, 13.5, 13.9, 13.14-13.15, 13.16, 13.25
Office of, 8.12, 13.2-13.3, 3.11, 13.24-13.25
relationship of, to community development, 13.23-13.24
relationship of, to teaching and consolidation, 8.11, 13.3-13.4, 13.20
requirements for
      aiming at self-sufficiency, 13.2, 13.4, 13.5, 13.19, 13.20-13.21
      appointing manager or director, 13.10, 13.11, 13.13
      approval of authorities, 13.6, 13.12
      beginning with modest, achievable goals, 13.8-13.10
      consulting with those to be served, 13.10, 13.11
      external assistance permitted, 13.5, 13.11
      grassroots stirrings, based on, 13.2, 13.5, 13.7-13.8, 13.10, 13.19-13.20, 13.22
      measurable goals, 13.9, 13.13
      service, not business, as primary objective, 13.6-13.7
      spiritual aspects precede material, 13.5
      study community through maps, census, etc., 13.5-13.12
      unity, 13.3, 13.20
role of individuals in, 13.3, 13.11-13.12, 12.15-13.16
role of women and youth in,13.12, 13.16
Third World, importance of, in, 13.2
Universal House of Justice, involvement of, in, 13.14-13.15, 13.24

teaching, 7.58-7.59

      connected to giving to Fund, 10.4-10.5, 10.8, 10.28, 15.2
      as result of obedience to Bahá'í laws, 15.31-15.32

administrative rights and, 15.12
arts and drama in, 7.21, 7.41
Bahá'í Funds and, 10.2
and consolidation (deepening), 7.4-7.8, 7.23-7.25, 7.29-7.30, 7.43-7.44, 8.11, 10.27-10.28
      balancing expansion and, 7.7-7.8, 8.11
      deepening classes for adults, 11.11-11.12
      role of scholarship in, 7.6
      as slow nurturing process, 7.4, 7.35-7.37
      role of summer and winter schools in, 7.6
      as subject to be discussed with community, 7.42
      systematic efforts needed in, 7.1, 7.26
disappointments in, 7.15-7.16, 7.34
divine assistance in, 7.9, 7.10-7.12, 7.16-7.18

and enrollments. See also Membership
      basic conditions for, 7.34-7.36
and entry by troops, 7.3-7.4, 7.10, 7.27-7.30
      numerical goals, 7.23, 7.25-7.26
      in U.S., 7.29
to every stratum, 7.4, 7.27
      minorities, 7.50-7.53
and expansion, 7.3-7.4
extension goals for, 7.23, 7.26
guarding against extremes in, 7.33-7.34
importance of, 7.9
      as spiritual obligation, 7.9, 7.13
      as source of divine assistance, 7.9, 7.10-7.12, 7.16-7.18
      in U.S., 7.29
indigenous believers and, 7.30, 7.51
in prisons, 2.12, 7.63-7.66
mass, and conversion, 7.27-7.34. See also Entry by troops
      in America, 7.32
      entry by troops as prelude to, 7.28-7.29
      not the only method, 7.40-7.41
      occurs in vast surges, 7.28
media contact and, 7.2
methods of, 7.31-7.32, 7.37-7.41
      choosing own, 7.37-7.38
      consultation on, 7.31, 7.32, 7.40
      contrast between Bahá'í community and doomed society, 8.3
      door-to-door, 7.39-7.40
      by example, 7.40, 8.16
      experimentation in, 7.13, 7.38-7.39
      firesides, 7.15, 7.39
      friendship, 7.13, 7.38-7.39
      living Bahá'í life, 12.7
      practicing love and unity, 7.19, 8.2
      participation in clubs, exhibitions, societies, etc., 7.40
      presenting The Promise of World Peace, 12.19
      self-sacrifice, courage, hope, and confidence, 8.16
      service, 8.11-8.12
      sharing about, at Feast, 7.17
      summer and winter schools, 7.53
      teaching institutes, 7.6
      youth must be taught, 11.10
minorities. See Minority(ies)
nature of, 7.9-7.12
need for systematic efforts in, 7.26
as obligation, 7.13
obstacles to, 7.45
online, 5.16
prominent people and national organizations, 7.2, 12.11-12.16
      handled by institutions, not individuals, 12.10-12.11
proselytizing forbidden, 7.8-7.9
publicity and, 3.36, 7.2
purpose of, 7.35
reinforcement of, with social and economic development, 13.3
role of Auxiliary Board members in, 1.21, 7.33, 7.41-7.44
role of Bahá'í scholars in, 11.14-11.16
role of community in, 7.18-7.19
role of family in, 7.19-7.20
role of individual in, 7.2, 7.11-7.18
      both new and old Bahá'ís to teach, 7.19
      leading other family members to Faith, 7.19

      setting goals, 7.15, 7.25-7.26
      taking initiative regardless of distractions, 7.13, 7.26
role of learned in, 7.41-7.44
role of LSA in, 7.12, 7.17
      adopting plan, 7.22-7.26
      balancing NSA and LSA projects, 7.32-7.33
      consultation, 7.12
      considering goals suggested by Universal House of Justice, 7.23-7.25
      encouraging believers, 7.16-7.18
      primary obligation, 3.14-3.15, 7.12
role of NSA in, 7.5, 7.17, 7.32-7.33, 7.41-7.44
role of youth in, 7.3, 7.20-7.22, 7.52, 8.9-8.10
plans for, 7.4, 7.22, 7.23-7.26, 8.2
steps in process of, 7.13
three aspects of (proclamation, expansion, consolidation), 7.1-7.9
and transformation of character, 7.10, 7.20
traveling teachers, 7.6, 7.21, 7.30, 7.33, 7.43

Chief Teller, responsibilities of, 2.6

capacity of Bahá'ís to endure, 15.32
intellectual, 11.14
mental, in West, 5.20
worth of, 5.22

assistance for, 3.9, 10.17, 10.23-10.24
auditing records of, 10.17
care of, in handling Funds, 10.20-10.23
duties and responsibilities of, 10.15, 10.17-10.19
      accounting system, 10.18, 10.19
      annual report to NSA, 10.18, 10.20
      budget, 10.18, 10.19
      educating community about Funds, 10.19
      entire LSA responsible for, 3.9
      at local level, 10.19
      at national level, 10.16, 10.17-10.19
      paying bills, 10.19
      receiving contributions, 10.19
      reporting financial progress, 10.19
presentations and reports by, 10.19-10.20
trustworthiness of, 3.9, 10.17
      commingling of personal and Bahá'í funds, 10.22
      misuse of funds, 10.22-10.23

importance of, 3.44-3.45
purpose of, 3.44
role of individual in, 3.46
role of NSA in relation to, 3.45
role of Regional Bahá'í Councils in relation to, 3.45

Bahá'í representative to, 12.28-12.29
initiatives of, 12.21
and International Day of Peace, 9.34
representatives of NSA at, 12.28-12.29
status of Bahá'í Faith at, 12.28-12.29

in Bahá'í community, 7.19, 8.2, 8.3, 8.4, 8.11, 8.12-8.13
      accepting election results to maintain, 2.18
      affected by attitudes toward authority, 1.11, 1.12-1.13
      and freedom from prejudice, 8.14
      in spite of differing views of Faith, 11.16
      importance of, in Bahá'í elections, 2.6
      integration of Persians and, 8.8
      LSA to foster and promote, 1.5, 3.26, 8.5
      LSA to prevent segregation at Feasts, 8.8
      as main key to success, 1.14
      and minority participation, 7.50, 8.8-8.9
      obeying LSA for the sake of, 1.10
      spiritual bonds of, 8.13
      suppressing critical thoughts, harsh words to achieve, 8.14
      and using talents of all, 3.17
in diversity, 1.7-1.8, 8.4, 8.8-8.10, 8.13, 9.31
      cultural diversity, 8.5, 9.13-9.17, 9.31-9.33
      uniformity in principle but diversity in detail and procedure, 4.7
establishment of
      aloofness from hatreds and recriminations, 8.16
      dissidence is contrary to, 4.21
      ignoring faults of others, 15.32
      LSAs as most effective instruments for, 8.7
      Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh influences efforts toward, 12.15
of family (nation in miniature), 8.16
through freedom from prejudice, 8.14
of mankind, 8.3-8.5
and Nineteen Day Feast, 8.11
of the sexes, 11.2
of Spiritual Assembly, 1.5, 4.7-4.8, 8.7

authority of, 5.2, 5.13
      delineated in 'Abdu'l-Bahá's Will, 5.2
election of, 3.44
Hands of the Cause as representatives of, 1.17
humanitarian projects to be launched under aegis of, 12.4
relationship of Hands of the Cause to, 1.16-1.17
Seat of, 10.46
Guardianship and, as twin institutions, 5.2

absentee, 2.2, 2.3, 2.14
administrative sanctions and, 15.9, 15.11-15.12
breaking a tie, 2.15-2.16
in civil elections, 12.8-12.9
confidentiality of, 2.7
counting ballots, 2.17
for oneself, 2.14
invalid ballots, 2.17
procedures for, 2.4, 2.14-2.20
as sacred responsibility, 2.13

to avoid Bahá'í law, 6.21, 15.9, 16.26
criteria for, 6.19-6.21
election of believer who has withdrawn, 2.19
reinstatement after, 2.13

equality of men and, 8.10, 11.2
      in education, 11.2
      war will cease due to, 11.2
role of, in social and economic development, 13.12, 13.16
status of, 8.12

equilibrium of, upset, 1.1

Office of Social and Economic Development at, 13.2-13.3

bases of
      awakening masses, 7.27
      Bahá'í community, 7.18-7.19
establishment of, 10.44-10.45
      pattern laid by Bahá'u'lláh, 1.1, 1.2
      reconstruction of society, 7.20
      transformation of human life, 8.2
family is nation in miniature, 8.16
Feast as foundation of new World Order, 9.15
world government, 1.3, 12.4
      pattern for administration of, offered by Bahá'í community, 12.4
      transition to, 12.4

administrative rights of, 15.10
declaration and enrollment of, 6.10-6.14
education of, 7.21, 7.56, 8.9, 11.3, 11.5-11.6, 11.10-11.11
mission of, 8.15
participation of, 3.19-3.20, 8.10

      in unit convention, 3.46
reaching age of maturity, 6.13-6.14
rights and privileges of, 3.46
role of
      in consultation, 9.27
      in social and economic development, 13.12, 13.16, 13.22
      in teaching, 7.20-7.22, 7.52, 7.56, 8.9-8.10, 12.4
service of, on committees, 3.19-3.20, 8.2, 8.3