Compilation on Youth Study

Table of Contents




0. Introductory Pages

I. Study, Training Institutes, and Study Classes p.

II. Proofs and Proofs in Study Classes p.

III. History and History in Study Classes and Training Institute p.

IV. Reciting/Meditating on Verses (including prayers) p.

V. Moral & Social Laws, Teaching, Administration p.

VI. Secular Subjects of Study p.




Sample Youth Class Introduction

Table of Contents



Three segments of each class p.
Subject Components of Youth Class (Detailed) p.

Youth class methods p.

Goals and expectations for each lesson and assignment p.
Evaluation p.

Homework p.

Required and Recommended Book and materials list p.

List of Books Writings encourage us to read p.

Three session cycle p.
Sample Timetable p.



#










Compilation on Youth Study















“I am waiting, eagerly waiting for these holy ones to appear;
and yet, how long will they delay their coming?
My prayer and ardent supplication, at eventide and at dawn,
is that these shining stars may soon shed their radiance
upon the world...”



Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 263









Vision




“You Bahá’í children and young people have both great privileges and great obligations ahead of you, for your generation will be the ones to help build up a new, better and more beautiful world after the dark years of this war are passed. You should prepare yourselves for this great task by trying to grasp the true meaning of the teachings and not just merely accepting them as something you are taught. They are like a wonderful new world of thought just beginning to be explored, and when we realize that Bahá’u’lláh has brought teachings and laws for a thousand years to come, we can readily see that each new generation may find some greater meaning in the writings than the ones gone before did.”

(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 99-100)



“It is evident that one of the reasons that the work on the home front in America is so seriously lagging is that the Bahá’ís themselves, though undoubtedly devoted, loyal and conscientious, are not always very deeply grounded in the spiritual fundamentals of their Faith. This produces a maladjustment, so to speak, in the nature of their service to the Cause; and only through a deeper understanding of their Faith and the inner spiritual strength that this understanding brings will they be able to reinforce themselves to meet their tasks, to see the joy of discharging their duties and grasping their privileges.”

(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 120)



I. Study, Training Institutes, and Study Classes


STUDY, TRAINING INSTITUTES, AND STUDY CLASSES (SUMMARIES)


1. PURPOSE, PREREQUISITES, NEED, AND JOY OF STUDY (p. )

2. NEED FOR TRAINING INSTITUTES/SPIRITUAL MEETINGS (p. )

3. WHAT IS TO BE COVERED IN INSTITUTE COURSES (p. )
4. WHAT SUBJECTS ARE TO BE TAUGHT IN INSTITUTES (p. )
5. WHAT OTHER SPECIFIC CONTENT IS TO BE COVERED? (p. )

6. PREREQUISITES AND NEED FOR STUDY CLASSES (p. )
7. SPECIFIC FOCUS IN STUDY CLASSES (p. )

8. WHAT METHODS ARE TO BE USED? (p. )

9. OBJECTIVES OR OUTCOMES OF STUDY CLASSES (p. )


STUDY, TRAINING INSTITUTES, AND STUDY CLASSES (DETAILED
SUMMARIES)

1. PURPOSE, PREREQUISITES, NEED, AND JOY OF STUDY
A. Purpose of study is unity (within and with others)
B. Prerequisites of Study

C. Need for Study
D. Can’t we just show good actions and give good advice?
E. Need to Make Time for Study in Free Time
F. Shouldn’t we be spending all our energy teaching and serving (and
not take time out to study to do this better)?

G. Joy Acquired and Struggle Required in Study

2. NEED FOR TRAINING INSTITUTES/SPIRITUAL MEETINGS
3. WHAT IS TO BE COVERED IN INSTITUTE COURSES?
4. WHAT SUBJECTS ARE TO BE TAUGHT IN INSTITUTES
5. WHAT OTHER SPECIFIC CONTENT IS TO BE COVERED?

6. PREREQUISITES AND NEED FOR STUDY CLASSES
A. Need for strict focus during meeting

B. Need for Dignified Conduct at meetings
C. Prerequisites of study classes include love among those present
D. Prerequisites/results of study classes include joy (because we are
active in God’s Will) and steadfastness
E. Need for Study classes
1. Form study classes reading the important books, especially
the Íqán.

2. Inquire of those having “custody of the Scriptures” if you do
not know

3. Need to teach the youth how to teach
4. Praise of meetings on studying the Scriptures
5. Study Classes important toward negating great harm little
knowledge can have on the teaching work
F. Ideally held as a weekly/”constant” activity


7. SPECIFIC FOCUS IN STUDY CLASSES

A. Study classes to cover proofs, history, prophecies
B. Study classes with focus of teaching to include proofs regarding
Bahá’u’lláh’s appearance, reading of Tablets and Communes, and to
begin with prayers and singing and may conclude with singing
C. Study classes to memorize incidents in Dawn-Breakers to use them
in teaching (in demonstrating the Faith’s motivating spirit)
D. Meetings to utter Word, set forth proofs and recount tribulations of
Abdu’l-Bahá.
E. Study classes are fully approved and the Íqán, “Some Answered
Questions” and “The Dawn-Breakers” are to be mastered and read
over and over again.
F. Study of Holy Scriptures
G. Special Focus for Women believers

8. WHAT METHODS ARE TO BE USED?
A. Overview of Methods
Quote 1: (pray, read, speak):
Quote 2: (read, lecture, study outlines):
Quote 3: (laboratory courses)
Quote 4: (spiritual preparation and study, teaching action and
reflection, and materials adoption/adaption/creation)

B. Lecture, study classes, and seminar work
C. Study outlines
D. Discussion, speeches, reading, and singing (see below)
E. Homework

9. OBJECTIVES OR OUTCOMES OF STUDY CLASSES
A. To deliver eloquent speeches at meeting
B. Speeches in public (as well as Feast)

C. Acquire speech
D. Give speeches in leisure time
E. Drama can be of great use
F. Meet people interested in lives and history of past prophets
1. Recommended Teaching audience include those interested
in lives and history of past prophets (as covered in the Íqán
or Some Answered Questions)

G. Give Firesides (as these meetings can prepare them for this)
1. Recommended Content of Firesides covered in study of Íqán
(though give Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era when
giving out literature as the latter is more of an overview
of the teachings)

2. Method of teaching praised which covers proofs (as in the Íqán)
H. Travel-Teach

I. Adopt, adapt, or create Materials for expansion
J. Bring other youth, Bahá’í or otherwise, to any of spectrum of
activities, including this class, according to their interest level

STUDY, TRAINING INSTITUTES, AND STUDY CLASSES (QUOTES AND

DETAILED SUMMARIES)

1. PURPOSE, PREREQUISITES, NEED, AND JOY OF STUDY

A. Purpose of study is unity (within and with others)


“Now is the moment in which to cleanse thyself with the waters of detachment that have flowed out from the Supreme Pen, and to ponder, wholly for the sake of God, those things which, time and again, have been sent down or manifested, and then to strive, as much as lieth in thee, to quench, through the power of wisdom and the force of thy utterance, the fire of enmity and hatred which smouldereth in the hearts of the peoples of the world. The Divine Messengers have been sent down, and their Books were revealed, for the purpose of promoting the knowledge of God, and of furthering unity and fellowship amongst men.” (Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 12 quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 10-11)


B. Prerequisites of Study


“The understanding of His words and the comprehension of the utterances of the Birds of Heaven are in no wise dependent upon human learning. They depend solely upon purity of heart, chastity of soul, and freedom of spirit.” (The Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 211, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 15)

“The wine of renunciation must needs be quaffed, the lofty heights of detachment must needs be attained, and the meditation referred to in the words “One hour’s reflection is preferable to seventy years of pious worship” must needs be observed, so that the secret of the wretched behaviour of the people be discovered, those people who, despite the love and yearning for truth which they profess, curse the followers of Truth when once He hath been made manifest. To this truth the above-mentioned tradition beareth witness.” (The Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 238 quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 15)

““A detailed and exact knowledge of the present structure of Bahá'í Administration, or of the By-laws of National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, or of the many and varied applications of Bahá'í law under the diverse conditions prevailing around the world, while valuable in itself, cannot be regarded as the sort of knowledge primarily intended by deepening. Rather is suggested a clearer apprehension of the purpose of God for man, and particularly of His immediate purpose as revealed and directed by Bahá'u'lláh, a purpose as far removed from current concepts of human well-being and happiness as is possible. We should constantly be on our guard lest the glitter and tinsel of an affluent society should lead us to think that such superficial adjustments to the modern world as are envisioned by humanitarian movements or are publicly proclaimed as the policy of enlightened statesmanship - such as an extension to all members of the human race of the benefits of a high standard of living, of education, medical care, technical knowledge - will of themselves fulfill the glorious mission of Bahá'u'lláh. Far otherwise. These are the things which shall be added unto us once we seek the Kingdom of God, and are not themselves the objectives for which the Bab gave His life, Bahá'u'lláh endured such sufferings as none before Him had ever endured, the Master and after Him the Guardian bore their trials and afflictions with such superhuman fortitude. Far deeper and more fundamental was their vision, penetrating to the very purpose of human life. We cannot do better, in this respect, than call to the attention of the friends certain themes pursued by Shoghi Effendi in his trenchant statement 'The Goal of a New World Order'. "The principle of the Oneness of Mankind" he writes, "implies an organic change in the structure of present day society, a change such as the world has not yet experienced." Referring to the ". . . epoch-making changes that constitute the greatest landmarks in the history of human civilization," he states that ". . . they cannot appear, when viewed in their proper perspective, except as subsidiary adjustments preluding that transformation of unparalleled majesty and scope which humanity is in this age bound to undergo". In a later document he refers to the civilization to be established by Bahá'u'lláh as one ". . . with a fullness of life such as the world has never seen nor can as yet conceive".

“Dearly-loved Friends. This is the theme we must pursue in our efforts to deepen in the Cause. What is Bahá'u'lláh's purpose for the human race? For what ends did He submit to the appalling cruelties and indignities heaped upon Him? What does He mean by 'a new race of men'? What are the profound changes which He will bring about? The answers are to be found in the Sacred Writings of our Faith and in their interpretation by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and our beloved Guardian. Let the friends immerse them-selves in this ocean, let them organize regular study classes for its constant consideration, and as reinforcement to their effort, let them remember conscientiously the requirements of daily prayer and reading of the Word of God enjoined upon all Bahá'ís by Bahá'u'lláh.”
      (From the Ridvan 1967 Message of the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá'ís of the World, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, 1st rev. ed. Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976, pp. 113-115, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

C. Need for Study

“He sincerely hopes that every one of those individuals who expressed his desire to join the Movement will gradually become so confirmed that no amount of trials and tribulations will deter him from sharing in the work of spreading the Faith throughout the world.”
Before undertaking such a task, however, it is necessary that they should deepen their knowledge of the teachings. They should learn to study the words for themselves and both grasp their significance and also become imbued with their spirit. The hope of Shoghi Effendi is not only to increase the number of the friends but also to have truer and more understanding Bahá’ís. The task of the teachers is to produce such efficient servants for our beloved Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 77-78)
“There are certain pillars which have been established as the unshakeable supports of the Faith of God. The mightiest of these is learning and the use of the mind, the expansion of consciousness, and insight into the realities of the universe and the hidden mysteries of Almighty God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 32)

“Day and night you must strive that you may attain to the significances of the heavenly kingdom, perceive the signs of divinity, acquire certainty of knowledge and realize that this world has a creator, a vivifier, a provider, an architect,–knowing this through proofs and evidences and not through susceptibilities,–nay, rather, through decisive arguments and real vision; that is to say, visualizing it as clearly as the outer eye beholds the sun. In this way you behold the presence of God and attain to the knowledge of the holy, divine Manifestations.” (From the utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Foundations of World Unity, p. 65, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 40)

“The first thing to do is to acquire a thirst for Spirituality, then Live the Life! Live the Life! Live the Life! The way to acquire this thirst is to meditate upon the future life. Study the Holy Words, read your Bible, read the Holy Books, especially study the Holy Utterances of Bahá’u’lláh; Prayer and Meditation, take much time for these two. Then will you know this Great Thirst, and then only can you begin to Live the Life!” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Star of the West, vol. 19, no. 3, p. 69 quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 44-45)

“The principles of the Teachings of Bahá’u’lláh should be carefully studied, one by one, until they are realized and understood by mind and heart–so will you become strong followers of the light, truly spiritual, heavenly soldiers of God, acquiring and spreading the true civilization in Persia, in Europe, and in the whole world.” (Paris Talks, no. 4.8, p. 9)

“Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your efforts first in deepening your own knowledge of the teachings and then strive to attract other people. You should form study classes and read the important books that have been published, especially the Íqán which contains the basic tenets of the Faith. The one who ponders over that book and grasps its full significance will obtain a clear insight into the old scriptures and appreciate the true mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 69-70)

“The beloved Guardian wrote, "To strive to obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá'u'lláh stupendous Revelation must, it is my unalterable conviction, remain the first obligation and the object of the constant endeavour of each one of its loyal adherents," a statement which places the obligation of deepening in the Cause firmly on every believer. It is therefore upon the nature of deepening, rather than upon the desirability of pursuing it, that we wish to comment.
      (From the Ridvan 1967 Message of the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá'ís of the World, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, 1st rev. ed. Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976, pp. 113-115, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


D. Can’t we just show good actions and give good advice?

“Promote ye the development of the cities of God and His countries, and glorify Him therein in the joyous accents of His well-favoured ones. In truth, the hearts of men are edified through the power of the tongue, even as houses and cities are built up by the hand and other means. We have assigned to every end a means for its accomplishment; avail yourselves thereof, and place your trust and confidence in God, the Omniscient, the All-Wise.” (The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, paragraph 160, p. 77).

“If their [the believers’] task is to be confined to good conduct and advice, nothing will be accomplished. They must speak out, expound the proofs, set forth clear arguments, draw irrefutable conclusions establishing the truth of the manifestation of the Sun of Reality.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Individual and Teaching p. 11, no. 22 (quoted on p. 204 Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory))

"To teach the Cause of God, to proclaim its truths, to defend its interests, to demonstrate, by words as well as by deeds, its indispensability, its potency, and universality, should at no time be regarded as the exclusive concern or sole privilege of Bahá'í administrative institutions, be they Assemblies, or committees."

“Guides are they, make them to speak out with arguments and proofs.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Prayers, p. 176)

Let some, at this very moment, gird up the loins of their endeavor, flee their native towns, cities, and states, forsake their country, and, "putting their whole trust in God as the best provision for their journey," set their faces, and direct their steps towards those distant climes, those virgin fields, those unsurrendered cities, and bend their energies to capture the citadels of men's hearts - hearts, which, as Baha'u'llah has written, "the hosts of Revelation and of utterance can subdue."
(Shoghi Effendi: The Advent of Divine Justice, Page: 59)

“Encourage ye the school children, from their earliest years, to deliver speeches of high quality, so that in their leisure time they will engage in giving cogent and effective talks, expressing themselves with clarity and eloquence.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 134)


“Verily, I implore God to gaze upon you with the eye of His mercy, to raise you through a godlike power, to move you by the breezes of His glory, to make you fluent in irrefutable and divine proofs and arguments, to sever you from the world and all therein, to purify and sanctify you from every material grade, and enable you to diffuse the bounties of the Divine Worlds.”
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 31)


E. Need to Make Time for Study in Free Time.

“Although the sole and fundamental purpose of all learning, and the toil and labour thereof, is attainment unto, and the recognition of, this station [of the Manifestation], yet they are all immersed in the pursuit of their material studies. They deny themselves every moment of leisure and utterly ignore Him, Who is the Essence of all learning, and the one Object of their quest!” (Bahá’u’lláh, The Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 145)

“It [a chaste and holy life] calls for the abandonment of a frivolous conduct, with its excessive attachment to trivial and often misdirected pleasures.” (Shoghi Effendi, Advent of Divine Justice, p. 25)

“I strongly urge you to devote, while you are pursuing your studies, as much time as you possibly can to a thorough study of the history and teachings of our beloved Cause. This is the prerequisite of a future successful career of service to the Bahá’í Faith in which I hope and pray you will distinguish yourself in the days to come.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 51)

“Regarding your question concerning your studies: as this is a purely personal matter that concerns your own future, the Guardian feels you should decide it yourself, in consultation with your parents. He urges you, however, to devote yourself as much as possible to studying and spreading the Bahá’í teachings, whatever your other occupations may be.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 100)

“We should also not let our studies detain us from deepening our knowledge of the literature of the Cause.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 71)
“Feel impelled appeal entire body American believers to henceforth regard Nabíl’s soul-stirring Narrative as essential adjunct to reconstructed Teaching program, as unchallengeable textbook in their Summer Schools, as source of inspiration in all literary and artistic pursuits, as an invaluable companion in times of leisure, as indispensable preliminary to future pilgrimage to Bahá’u’lláh’s native land, and as unfailing instrument to allay distress and resist attacks of critical, disillusioned humanity.” (Shoghi Effendi, cablegram dated June 21, 1932, Messages to America 1932-1946, p. 1)

“Frivolity palls and eventually leads to boredom and emptiness, but true happiness and joy and humor that are parts of a balanced life that includes serious thought, compassion and humble servitude to God are characteristics that enrich life and add to its radiance.” (Messages of the Universal House of Justice, p. 413)

“There is a desperate need for deepening the Bahá’ís themselves in their own faith. They do not study the teachings enough. They do not therefore either act as whole-heartedly as Bahá’ís as they should, or derive the spiritual strength from the Faith which studying, praying and meditating brings.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 118)


F. Shouldn’t we be spending all our energy teaching and serving (and not
take time out to study to do this better)?


“It is better to have one Bahá’í who understands the Teachings and is wholeheartedly convinced of their truth, than a number of Bahá’ís who are not well aware of the Cause, and deep-rooted in the Covenant.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 116-117)

“One consecrated soul is preferable to a thousand other souls.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 81)

“Wherever the mention of Baha'u'llah rises up, that is the paradise of Abha. Wherever purified, severed and illumined souls are found, that is the paradise of Baha. Tihran is the paradise of Baha'u'llah, for souls are found there you cannot call human; they are angels. In reality, the Baha'i friends in that city are of the heavenly host. Whenever I think of them, I become happy.
The Blessed Perfection suffered innumerable ordeals and calamities, but during His lifetime He trained in all regions many souls who were peerless. The purpose of the appearance of the Manifestations of God is the training of the people. That is the only result of Their mission, the real outcome. The outcome of the whole life of Jesus was the training of eleven disciples and two women. Why did He suffer troubles, ordeals and calamities? For the training of these few followers. That was the result of His life. The product of the life of Christ was not the churches but the illumined souls of those who believed in Him. Afterward, they spread His teachings.
It is my hope that you all may become the product of the life of Baha'u'llah and the outcomes of His heavenly training. When the people ask you, "What has Baha'u'llah accomplished?" say to them, "He has created these; He has trained us."
(`Abdu'l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 437)
“Just one mature soul, with spiritual understanding and a profound knowledge of the Faith, can set a whole country ablaze–so great is the power of the Cause to work through a pure and selfless channel."
      (From a letter dated November 6, 1949 to an individual believer)


G. Joy Acquired and Struggle Required in Study


“May your souls be illumined by the light of the Words of God, any may you become repositories of the mysteries of God, for no comfort is greater and no happiness is sweeter than spiritual comprehension of the divine teachings. If a man understands the real meaning of a poet’s verses such as those of Shakespeare, he is pleased and rejoiced. How much greater his joy and pleasure when he perceives the reality of the Holy Scriptures and becomes informed of the mysteries of the Kingdom!
“I pray that the divine blessings may descend upon you day by day, that your hearts may be opened to perceive the inner significances of the Word of God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 460)

“Praise be to God that the spirit of the Holy Writings and Tablets which have been revealed in this wondrous Dispensation concerning matters of major or minor importance, whether essential or otherwise, related to the sciences and the arts, to natural philosophy, literature, politics or economics, have so permeated the world that since the inception of the world in the course of past Dispensations and bygone ages nothing like it has ever been seen or heard. Indeed if an avowed follower of Bahá’u’lláh were to immerse himself in, and fathom the depths of, the ocean of these heavenly teachings, and with utmost care and attention deduce from each of them the subtle mysteries and consummate wisdom that lie enshrined therein, such a person’s life, materially, intellectually and spiritually, will be safe from toil and trouble, and unaffected by setbacks and perils, or any sadness or despondency.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 47-48)

As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated in a public talk (this cannot be wholly identified as authentic Text, however, because the original is missing), “Divine things are too deep to be expressed by common words. The heavenly teachings are expressed in parable in order to be understood and preserved for ages to come. When the spiritually minded dive deeply into the ocean of their meaning they bring to the surface the pearls of their inner significance. There is no greater pleasure than to study God’s word with a spiritual mind.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá in London, p. 78)

“Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your effort to deepen your knowledge of the literature of the Movement, until you become fully acquainted with its spirit and tenets. Unless you do obtain such a firm hold you will never be able to teach others and render real service to the promulgation of the Faith. Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society. Besides this there is Some Answered Questions of the Master and The Dawn-Breakers of Nabíl. Every Bahá’í should master these books and be able to explain their contents to others. Besides their importance, they are interesting and most absorbing.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Compilation of Compilations, vol. 1, p. 215)

Chapter 71 of Some Answered Questions, in mentioning that certain visions (or which seem to be visions) are “real” and “produce wonderful effects in the minds and thoughts of men, and cause their hearts to be attracted,” gives another rationale for the belief that the Holy Books are intentionally worded mysteriously, and not always clearly. This is further indication of God as the “Divine Charmer,” “the Best-Beloved”, (the latter two titles of God revealed after reference to man comprehending “the essence of these divine mysteries” and grasping “the purpose of God” in the Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 57) Who has not only provided these mysteries to test us for our own progress, but also that we may enjoy them, as the “waters of mercy.” (p. 57)

Though see Chapters 48, 51, 63, and 81 of Some Answered Questions for the need for struggle, exaltation, and suffering (in connection with our being forced to discover the divine mysteries, rather than them being automatically revealed clearly to us, except perhaps to greater degrees in successive Dispensations such as in this one in which the scroll has been “unsealed”).

“...it is essential to recall that, as we are told in the Writings, the comprehension of the Sacred Writings is not dependent upon scholarship or learning. This should encourage every believer, no matter what his attainments, to delve into the Revelation with determination and confidence....But in addition to needing the proper spirit, it requires concentration and meditation to unravel the proper spirit, it requires concentration and meditation to unravel the meanings which lie enshrined in the Revealed Word. Nowadays, however, the lives of most people are busy and crowded with distractions, so it requires great discipline to devote the time, attention and care necessary to study the Teachings in the way they deserve. Deepening is like a skill or art which must be acquired through effort. And, just as there are millions of Christians who would not trade the King James Version of the Holy Bible, once one has caught the flavor of the English translations done by Shoghi Effendi -- or done in the style he developed -- the beauty and power of expression become appealing and inspiring. Once comes to fall in love with that style.” (On behalf of the Universal House of Justice, in a letter dated 21 January 1993 to an individual believer)


2. NEED FOR TRAINING INSTITUTES/SPIRITUAL MEETINGS

“What the friends throughout the world are now being asked to do is to commit themselves, their material resources, their abilities and their time to the development of a network of training institutes on a scale never before attempted.” (Universal House of Justice, Four Year Plan, 3.29)

“The endeavor of individuals to conduct study classes in their homes, the sponsorship by the institutions of occasional courses of instruction, and the informal activities of the community, though important, are not adequate for the education and training of a rapidly expanding community. (Universal House of Justice, Four Year Plan, 3.27)

“It is therefore of paramount importance that systematic attention be given to devising methods for educating large numbers of believers in the fundamental verities of the Faith and for training and assisting them to serve the Cause as their God-given talents allow.” (Universal House of Justice, Four Year Plan, 3.27)


Need for Spiritual Meetings


“You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The foundation of the spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maidservants of the Merciful must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of the Beauty of Abhá–May my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become informed of the Divine Evidences and Proofs.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)

“O Company of God! To each created thing, the Ancient Sovereignty hath portioned out its own perfection, its particular virtue and special excellence, so that each in its degree may become a symbol denoting the sublimity of the true Educator of humankind, and that each, even as a crystalline mirror, may tell of the grace and splendor of the Sun of Truth.

“And from amongst all creatures He hath singled out man, to grant him His most wondrous gift, and hath made him to attain the bounties of the Company on High. That most precious of gifts is attainment unto His unfailing guidance, that the inner reality of humankind should become as a niche to hold this lamp; and when the scattering splendors of this light do beat against the bright glass of the heart, the heart’s purity maketh the beams to blaze out even stronger than before, and to shine in glory on the minds and souls of men.

“The attainment of the most great guidance is dependent upon knowledge and wisdom, and on being informed as to the mysteries of the Holy Words. Wherefore must the loved ones of God, be they young or old, be they men or women, each one according to his capabilities, strive to acquire the various branches of knowledge, and to increase his understanding of the mysteries of the Holy Books, and his skill in marshaling the divine proofs and evidences.

“The eminent Sadru’s-Sudúr, who hath verily attained a most exalted station in the the Retreats of Bliss, inaugurated the teaching meeting. He was the first blessed soul to lay the foundation of this momentous institution. God be praised, during the course of his life he educated persons who today are strong and eloquent advocates of the Lord God, disciples who are indeed pure and spiritual descendants of him who was so close to the Holy Threshold. After his passing, certain blessed individuals took steps to perpetuate his teaching work, and when He learned of it, this Captive’s heart rejoiced.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Education in Compilation of Compilations, p. 252)

("Beginning in approximately 1904, a learned Iranian believer known as Sadru's-Sudúr
established the first teacher-training class for Bahá'í youth in Tehran with 'Abdu'l-Bahá's
encouragement. The classes met daily, and the graduates, who had been trained in the
beliefs of other religions as well as various aspects of the Bahá'í Faith, contributed greatly
to the expansion and consolidation of the Cause in their native land." (Century of
Light
)

“O God, O Thou Who hast cast Thy splendor over the luminous realities of men, shedding upon them the resplendent lights of knowledge and guidance, and hast chosen them out of all created things for this supernal grace, and hast caused them to encompass all things, to understand their inmost essence, and to disclose their mysteries, bringing them forth out of darkness into the visible world! ‘He verily showeth His special mercy to whomsoever He will.’
“O Lord, help Thou Thy loved ones to acquire knowledge and the sciences and arts, and to unravel the secrets that are treasured up in the inmost reality of all created beings. Make them to hear the hidden truths that are written and embedded in the heart of all that is. Make them to be ensigns of guidance amongst all creatures, and piercing rays of the mind shedding forth their light in this, the ‘first life’. Make them to be leaders unto Thee, guides unto Thy path, runners urging men on to Thy Kingdom.

“Thou verily art the Powerful, the Protector, the Potent, the Defender, the Mighty, the Most Generous.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Education in Compilation of Compilations, pp. 251-252)


NOTE:

“Spiritual Meeting” May be Used to Refer to Assembly Meetings (see Bahá’í World Faith), or other Generic Meetings (though it also presaged the training institute)

"Concerning the members of this spiritual meeting, you suggested that they be selected from all the spiritual meetings of the other cities of America. I quite approve and am very much pleased with this plan. This will become the cause of harmony in the Word in all America. Therefore, ask every spiritual meeting in the other cities that they will each select one and send him, and from these selected ones and with those who are selected from the Chicago meeting, establish a new meeting for the provision of the needs of the Temple."
(`Abdu'l-Bahá, Baha'i World Faith, p. 417)

“It is God’s purpose that in the West union and harmony may day by day increase among the friends of God and the handmaids of the Merciful. Not until this is realized can any advance be achieved. And the greatest means for the union and harmony of all is the gathering of the friends in spiritual meetings. This matter is very important and is a magnet which will attract divine confirmations.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, new translation of Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 124-125, quoted in Peace: More than an End to War, p. 106)

“The Four Year Plan, which was a major advance on those that immediately preceded it, was designed to take advantage of the opportunities and insights thus offered. The goal of advancing the process of entry by troops became the single-minded aim of the enterprise. The lessons that had been learned during earlier Plans now placed the emphasis on developing the capacities of believers — wherever they might be — so that all could arise as confident protagonists of the Faith's mission. The instrument to accomplish this objective had been undergoing steady refinement during the earlier Plans and had demonstrated its efficacy.
As with most of the other methods and activities by which the Faith was advancing, this instrument had likewise been conceived decades earlier by the Master, who calls in the Tablets of the Divine Plan for deepened believers to "gather together the youths of the love of God in schools of instruction and teach them all the divine proofs and irrefragable arguments, explain and elucidate the history of the Cause, and interpret also the prophecies and proofs which are recorded and are extant in the divine books and epistles regarding the manifestation of the Promised One...."[126] Pioneering work and organized training of this nature had already been done in Iran, during the early years of the century, by the much-loved Sadru's-Sudúr.[127] As the years passed, winter and summer schools had multiplied, and successive Plans also encouraged experimentation in the development of Bahá'í institutes.


note 127
"Beginning in approximately 1904, a learned Iranian believer known as Sadru's-Sudúr established the first teacher-training class for Bahá'í youth in Tehran with 'Abdu'l-Bahá's encouragement. The classes met daily, and the graduates, who had been trained in the beliefs of other religions as well as various aspects of the Bahá'í Faith, contributed greatly to the expansion and consolidation of the Cause in their native land." (Century of Light)



3. WHAT IS TO BE COVERED IN INSTITUTE COURSES?

Quote 1:

“By ‘verities of the Faith’ he means the great teachings and fundamentals enshrined in our Bahá’í literature” (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, April 19, 1947)

Summary Outline:
1) the great teachings enshrined in our Bahá’í literature
2) the (great) fundamentals enshrined in our Bahá’í literature


Quote 2:
“The three fundamental verities animating and underlying the Bahá’í Faith--the Unity of God, the Unity of His Prophets, the Unity of mankind.” (Universal House of Justice, quoted in letter of National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States dated November 25, 1996.)

Summary Outline:
1) Unity of God
2) Unity of His Prophets
3) Unity of mankind

“The Supreme Body cautions that there is no absolute list of fundamental verities and the friends should not make an issue of this matter by attempting to codify them.” (National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, November 25, 1996.)

4. WHAT SUBJECTS ARE TO BE TAUGHT IN INSTITUTES

Quote 1:
“The subjects taught usually consist of Bahá’í History, Laws and Teachings, and the Administrative Order.” (From “Suggestions on Operation of Teaching Institutes”, enclosure in a letter dated December 24, 1964 from the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala: Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 19)
Summary Outline:
1) Bahá’í History
2) Laws and Teachings
3) The Administrative Order



5. WHAT OTHER SPECIFIC CONTENT IS TO BE COVERED?

Quote 1:
“Consolidation must comprise not only the establishment of Bahá’í administrative institutions, but a true deepening in the fundamental verities of the Cause and in its spiritual principles, understanding of its prime purpose in the establishment of the unity of mankind, instruction in its standards of behaviour in all aspects of private and public life, in the particular practice of Bahá’í life in such things as daily prayer, education of children, observance of the laws of Bahá’í marriage, abstention from politics, the obligation to contribute to the Fund, the importance of the Nineteen Day Feast and opportunity to acquire a sound knowledge of the present-day practice of Bahá’í administration. (Universal House of Justice, Messages from the Universal House of Justice. 34.13, p. 81)

Summary Outline: (Consolidation)

1) the establishment of Bahá’í administrative institutions
2) a true deepening in the fundamental verities of the Cause and in its
spiritual principles
3) understanding of its prime purpose in the establishment of the unity of
mankind
4) instruction in its standards of behaviour in all aspects of private and
public life
a) in the particular practice of Bahá’í life in such things as
i) daily prayer
ii) education of children
iii) observance of the laws of Bahá’í marriage
iv) abstention from politics
v) the obligation to contribute to the Fund
vi) the importance of the Nineteen Day Feast
5) opportunity to acquire a sound knowledge of the present-day practice of
Bahá’í administration

Quote 2:

“...sustained educational programs which create in the believers the awareness of the importance of the Teachings in every area of their individual and social lives and which engender in them the desire and determination to elect and support their Local Spiritual Assemblies.” (1.29)

Summary Outline: (sustained educational programs which:)

1) create the awareness of the importance of the Teachings in every area of
the believers’
a) individual lives
b) social lives
2) engender in them the
a) desire to:
i) elect their Local Spiritual Assemblies
ii) support their Local Spiritual Assemblies
b) determination to:
i) elect their Local Spiritual Assemblies
ii) support their Local Spiritual Assemblies
Quote 3:

“Special emphasis is laid upon living the Bahá’í life, the importance of teaching, prayer, fasting, Nineteen Day Feasts, Bahá’í elections and contribution to the Fund.”
(From “Suggestions on Operation of Teaching Institutes”, enclosure in a letter dated December 24, 1964 from the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala: Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 19)

Summary Outline:
1) living the Bahá’í life
2) the importance of teaching
3) prayer
4) fasting
5) Nineteen Day Feasts
6) Bahá’í elections
7) contribution to the Fund


6. PREREQUISITES AND NEED FOR STUDY CLASSES

A. Need for strict focus during meeting (and in general)

(However, don’t be shy about asking to cover topics on a tangent (for fear you should know it already or only read it at home or that the Writings wouldn’t shed light on such subjects.)

“This gathering must be completely spiritual. That is, the discussion must be confined to marshaling clear and conclusive proofs that the Sun of Truth hath indeed arisen.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 130-131, no. 94.1-94.4)

“At these meetings, there should be no extraneous conversation whatever. Rather, the assemblage should confine itself to reading and reciting the Holy Words, and to the discussion of matters relating to the Cause of God, expounding, for example, conclusive proofs and arguments, and the Writings of the Best Beloved of mankind.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings: The Nineteen Day Feast, p. 9)

“Verily, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá inhaleth the fragrance of the love of God from every meeting place where the Word of God is uttered, and proofs and arguments set forth, that shed their rays across the world; and where they recount the tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the evil hands of those who have violated the Covenant of God. O handmaid of the Lord: Speak thou no word of politics; thy task concerneth the life of the soul, for this verily leadeth to man’s joy in the world of God. Except to speak well of them, make thou no mention of the earth’s kings, and the worldly governments thereof. Rather, confine thine utterance to spreading the blissful tidings of the Kingdom of God, and demonstrating the influence of the Word of God, and the holiness of the Cause of God. Tell thou of abiding joy and spiritual delights, and godlike qualities, and of how the Sun of Truth hath risen above the earth’s horizons; tell of the blowing of the spirit of life into the body of the world. ” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 8)

“At these meetings, there should be no extraneous conversation whatever. Rather, the assemblage should confine itself to reading and reciting the Holy Words, and to the discussion of matters relating to the Cause of God, expounding, for example, conclusive proofs and arguments, and the Writings of the Best Beloved of mankind. Those who present themselves at these gatherings must first array themselves in spotless clothing, turn their faces toward the Kingdom of Abhá, and then with lowliness and submissiveness enter in. During the readings they must maintain complete silence. Should anyone wish to speak, he should say in all humility, with exactitude and eloquence. Salutations be unto you, and praise.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast )

“Today it behooveth one and all to forgo the mention of all else, and to disregard all things. Let their speaking, let their inner state be summed up thus: “Keep all my words of prayer and praise confined to one refrain; make all my life but servitude to Thee.” That is, let them concentrate all their thoughts, all their words, on teaching the Cause of God and spreading the Faith of God, and inspiring all to characterize themselves with the characteristics of God; on loving mankind; on being pure and holy in all things, and spotless in their public and private life; on being upright and detached, and fervent, and afire. All is to be yielded up, save only the remembrance of God; all is to be dispraised, except His praise. Today, to this melody of the Company on high, the world will leap and dance: “Glory be to my Lord, the All-Glorious!” But know ye this: save for this song of God, no song will stir the world, and save for this nightingale-cry of truth from the Garden of God, no melody will lure away the heart. “Whence cometh this Singer Who speaketh the Beloved’s name?” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, no. 54.1-54.2, p. 99)

"Let the loved ones of God, whether young or old, whether male or female, each according to his capabilities, bestir themselves and spare no efforts to acquire the various current branches of knowledge, both spiritual and secular, and of the arts. Whensoever they gather in their meetings let their conversation be confined to learned subjects and to information on the knowledge of the day.
If they do thus, they will flood the world with the Manifest Light, and change this dusty earth into gardens of the Realm of Glory."
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Education, p. 253)


B. Need for Dignified Conduct at meetings (written in context of Feasts)

“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)


C. Prerequisites of study classes include love among those present


“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)
D. Prerequisites/results of study classes include joy (because we are active in
God’s Will) and steadfastness

“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)

“Promote ye the development of the cities of God and His countries, and glorify Him therein in the joyous accents of His well-favoured ones. In truth, the hearts of men are edified through the power of the tongue, even as houses and cities are built up by the hand and other means. We have assigned to every end a means for its accomplishment; avail yourselves thereof, and place your trust and confidence in God, the Omniscient, the All-Wise.” (The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, paragraph 160, p. 77).

“Verily, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá inhaleth the fragrance of the love of God from every meeting place where the Word of God is uttered, and proofs and arguments set forth, that shed their rays across the world; and where they recount the tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the evil hands of those who have violated the Covenant of God. O handmaid of the Lord: Speak thou no word of politics; thy task concerneth the life of the soul, for this verily leadeth to man’s joy in the world of God. Except to speak well of them, make thou no mention of the earth’s kings, and the worldly governments thereof. Rather, confine thine utterance to spreading the blissful tidings of the Kingdom of God, and demonstrating the influence of the Word of God, and the holiness of the Cause of God. Tell thou of abiding joy and spiritual delights, and godlike qualities, and of how the Sun of Truth hath risen above the earth’s horizons; tell of the blowing of the spirit of life into the body of the world. ” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 8)

“It is evident that one of the reasons that the work on the home front in America is so seriously lagging is that the Bahá’ís themselves, though undoubtedly devoted, loyal and conscientious, are not always very deeply grounded in the spiritual fundamentals of their Faith. This produces a maladjustment, so to speak, in the nature of their service to the Cause; and only through a deeper understanding of their Faith and the inner spiritual strength that this understanding brings will they be able to reinforce themselves to meet their tasks, to see the joy of discharging their duties and grasping their privileges.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 120)

Ye have written as to the meetings of the friends, and how filled they are with peace and joy. Of course this is so; for wherever the spiritually minded are gathered together, there in His beauty reigneth Bahá’u’lláh. Thus it is certain that such reunions will yield boundless happiness and peace.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 7)

Gather ye together with the utmost joy and fellowship and recite the verses revealed by the merciful Lord. By so doing the doors to true knowledge will be opened to your inner beings, and ye will then feel your souls endowed with steadfastness and your hearts filled with radiant joy.” (Pearls of Wisdom: The Importance of Deepening our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 4)
E. Need for Study classes


1. Form study classes reading the important books, especially the Íqán.

“Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your efforts first in deepening your own knowledge of the teachings and then strive to attract other people. You should form study classes and read the important books that have been published, especially the Íqán which contains the basic tenets of the Faith. The one who ponders over that book and grasps its full significance will obtain a clear insight into the old scriptures and appreciate the true mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 69-70)

“Dearly-loved Friends. This is the theme we must pursue in our efforts to deepen in the Cause. What is Bahá'u'lláh's purpose for the human race? For what ends did He submit to the appalling cruelties and indignities heaped upon Him? What does He mean by 'a new race of men'? What are the profound changes which He will bring about? The answers are to be found in the Sacred Writings of our Faith and in their interpretation by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and our beloved Guardian. Let the friends immerse them-selves in this ocean, let them organize regular study classes for its constant consideration, and as reinforcement to their effort, let them remember conscientiously the requirements of daily prayer and reading of the Word of God enjoined upon all Bahá'ís by Bahá'u'lláh.”
      (From the Ridvan 1967 Message of the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá'ís of the World, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, 1st rev. ed. Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976, pp. 113-115, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


2. Inquire of those having “custody of the Scriptures” if you do not know
“Inasmuch as it hath been clearly shown that only those who are initiated into the divine mysteries can comprehend the melodies uttered by the Bird of Heaven, it is therefore incumbent upon every one to seek enlightenment from the illumined in heart and from the Treasuries of divine mysteries regarding the intricacies of God’s Faith and the abstruse allusions in the utterances of the Daysprings of Holiness. Thus will these mysteries be unravelled, not by the aid of acquired learning, but solely through the assistance of God and the outpourings of His grace. “Ask ye, therefore, of them that have the custody of the Scriptures, if ye know it not.”” (Kitáb-i-Íqán, pp. 191-192, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 13)


3. Need to teach the youth how to teach

“The Bahá’í youth must be taught how to teach the Cause of God. Their knowledge of the fundamentals of the Faith must be deepened and the standard of their education in science and literature enhanced. They must become thoroughly familiar with the language used and the example set by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His public addresses throughout the West. They must also be acquainted with those essential prerequisites of teaching as recorded in the Holy Books and Tablets.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 50-51)

"For the last twenty years I have repeatedly emphasized the matter of spreading the Cause of God. In every city there must be organised assemblies of teaching-classes to teach the young how to teach the Cause and prepare them for this most important service.

"Every Bahá'í must acquire the lessons of teaching. This will yield results. No other service is as important as this. This service of the promotion of the Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh is the most confirmed service. Every time, one service holds the most supreme importance.

"There is one season to harrow the ground, another season to scatter the seeds, still another season to irrigate the fields and still another to harvest the crop. We must attend to these various kinds of activities in their proper seasons in order to become successful. Now is the time of seed-sowing, but it seems to me some of the believers are thinking about crop-getting. This will give them no results. Whosoever is thinking of any other thing, is wasting his time.

"The promotion of the principles of Bahá'u'lláh is the most dominant issue before the believers of God."

(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “China Tablet”????)


4. Praise of meetings on studying the Scriptures

“I have been informed that the purpose of your class meeting is to study the significances and mysteries of the Holy Scriptures and understand the meaning of the divine Testaments. It is a cause of great happiness to me that you are turning unto the Kingdom of God, that you desire to approach the presence of God and to become informed of the realities and precepts of God. It is my hope that you may put forth your most earnest endeavor to accomplish this end, that you may investigate and study the Holy Scriptures word by word so that you may attain knowledge of the mysteries hidden therein. Be not satisfied with words, but seek to understand the spiritual meanings hidden in the heart of the words.” (Utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 458-459, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 40-41)


5. Study Classes important toward negating great harm little knowledge
can have on the teaching work


“It is also very important to hold study classes and go deep in the teachings. A great harm is done by starting to teach without being firmly grounded in the literature. “Little knowledge is dangerous” fully applies to the teaching work. (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 76)


F. Ideally held as a weekly/”constant” activity (might even be daily)


Once in every week, gather ye the steadfast friends together in a meeting place, and there let them engage in praising and glorifying the Lord.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 6)

"Likewise the public meetings in which one day during the week the believers gather to be engaged in the commemoration of God, to read Communes and deliver effective speeches is acceptable and beloved."
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith, p. 411)

(In a letter giving suggested goals for Local Spiritual Assemblies, the following is mentioned in a letter from the Universal House of Justice:)
“9. Can regular meetings for the benefit of the local friends be held? If so, how often and when?...’Abdu’l-Bahá exhorts the friends to hold such meetings as a “constant” activity, and praises weekly meetings. He repeatedly counsels the believers to read and recite the Holy Word in such meetings and deliver speeches on the teachings, the proofs and the history of the Faith.” (Universal House of Justice, letter dated December 24, 1975 to a National Spiritual Assembly)

"Beginning in approximately 1904, a learned Iranian believer known as Sadru's-Sudúr established the first teacher-training class for Bahá'í youth in Tehran with 'Abdu'l-Bahá's encouragement. The classes met daily, and the graduates, who had been trained in the beliefs of other religions as well as various aspects of the Bahá'í Faith, contributed greatly to the expansion and consolidation of the Cause in their native land." (Century of Light)


7. SPECIFIC FOCUS IN STUDY CLASSES

A. Study classes to cover proofs, history, prophecies


“Amongst other things is the holding of meetings for teaching so that blessed souls and the old ones from amongst the believers may gather together the youths of the love of God in schools of instruction and
1) “teach them all the divine proofs and irrefragable arguments,
2) “explain and elucidate the history of the Cause,
3) ”and interpret also the prophecies and proofs which are recorded
and are extant in the divine Books and Epistles regarding the
manifestation of the Promised One,
“so that the young ones may go in perfect knowledge in all these degrees.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, no. 8:15, p. 54, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast, p. 10)


B. Study classes with focus of teaching to include proofs regarding
Bahá’u’lláh’s appearance, reading of Tablets and Communes, and to
begin with prayers and singing and may conclude with singing

“You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The foundation of the spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maidservants of the Merciful must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of the Beauty of Abhá–May my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become informed of the Divine Evidences and Proofs.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)


"Likewise the public meetings in which one day during the week the believers gather to be engaged in the commemoration of God, to read Communes and deliver effective speeches is acceptable and beloved."
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith, p. 411)



C. Study classes to memorize incidents in Dawn-Breakers to use them in
teaching (in demonstrating the Faith’s motivating spirit)

“Shoghi Effendi would advise the friends in Rostock to hold regular study classes and read that book with great care, committing its salient facts to memory, so that while teaching the Cause, they may be able to show the motivating spirit of the Faith by referring to some incidents of those early days.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Divine Guidance, vol. ii, p. 24)


D. Meetings to utter Word, set forth proofs and recount tribulations of
Abdu’l-Bahá. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá recounts some of the latter in Tablets in
Bahá’í World Faith; the Guardian discusses some of these in God Passes
By
)

“Verily, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá inhaleth the fragrance of the love of God from every meeting place where the Word of God is uttered, and proofs and arguments set forth, that shed their rays across the world; and where they recount the tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the evil hands of those who have violated the Covenant of God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 8)


E. Study classes are fully approved and the Íqán, “Some Answered
Questions” and “The Dawn-Breakers” are to be mastered and read over
and over again.

“He fully approves the idea of holding study classes, for the deeper the friends go in their understanding of the teaching the more firm and steadfast they will become and the more unwavering in their support of the institutions of the Faith. Books such as the Íqán, “Some Answered Questions” and “The Dawn-Breakers” should be mastered by every Bahá’í. They should read these books over and over again. The first two books will reveal to them the significance of this divine revelation as well as the unity of all the Prophets of old. The last book will show how the Faith was ushered into the world and how its early adherents heroically faced martyrdom and suffering in their desire to establish the Cause throughout the world. Knowing the life of those heroes will create in us the urge to follow their footsteps and achieve the same.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 76-77)


F. Study of Holy Scriptures

“I have been informed that the purpose of your class meeting is to study the significances and mysteries of the Holy Scriptures and understand the meaning of the divine Testaments. It is a cause of great happiness to me that you are turning unto the Kingdom of God, that you desire to approach the presence of God and to become informed of the realities and precepts of God. It is my hope that you may put forth your most earnest endeavor to accomplish this end, that you may investigate and study the Holy Scriptures word by word so that you may attain knowledge of the mysteries hidden therein. Be not satisfied with words, but seek to understand the spiritual meanings hidden in the heart of the words.” (Utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 458-459, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 40-41)


G. Special Focus for Women believers (see also section 2.E. on proofs)

Quote 1 on meetings of women believers:


(As boys and girls are to have the same curriculum, is this an extra emphasis for women or for those who had already congregated to focus on the education of children?)

“O handmaids of the beauty of Abhá! Your letter hath come, and its perusal brought great joy. Praised be God, the women believers have organized meetings where they
1. “will learn how to teach the Faith,
2. “will spread the sweet savors of the Teachings and
3. “(will) make plans for training the children.”
A. “This gathering must be completely spiritual.
1. “That is, the discussion must be confined to marshaling clear and
conclusive proofs that the Sun of Truth hath indeed arisen.
B. “And further, those present should concern themselves
1. “with every means of training the girl children;
2. “with teaching
a. “the various branches of knowledge,
b. “good behavior,
c. “a proper way of life,
d. “the cultivation of a good character,
e. “chastity and constancy,
f. “perseverance,
g. “strength,
h. “determination,
i. “firmness of purpose;
3. “with
a. “household management,
b. “the education of children, and
c. “whatever especially applieth to the needs of girls
“to the end that these girls, reared in the stronghold of all perfections,
and with the protection of a goodly character, will, when they themselves
become mothers, bring up their children from earliest infancy to have a
good character and conduct themselves well.”

C. “Let them also study
1. “whatever will nurture
a. “the health of the body and
b. “its physical soundness, and
2. “how to guard their children from disease.”
“When matters are thus well arranged, every child will become a peerless
plant in the gardens of the Abhá Paradise.”

(Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 130-131, no. 94.1-94.4)
Quote 2 on meetings of women believers:

“O handmaids of the Lord! The spiritual assemblage that ye established in that illumined city is most propitious. Ye have made great strides; ye have surpassed the others, have arisen to serve the Holy Threshold, and have won heavenly bestowals.

A. “Now with all spiritual zeal must ye:
1. ”gather in that enlightened assemblage and recite the Holy Writings
2. “and engage in remembering the Lord.
B. “Set ye forth His arguments and proofs.
C. “Work ye for the guidance of the women in that land,
“teach the young girls and the children, so that the mothers may
a. “educate their little ones from their earliest days,
b. “thoroughly train them,
c. “rear them to have a goodly character and good morals,
d. “guide them to all the virtues of humankind,
e. “prevent the development of any behavior that would be
worthy of blame, and
f. “foster them in the embrace of Bahá’í education.

A. “Thus shall these tender infants
1. “be nurtured at the breast of the knowledge of God and His love.
B. “Thus shall they
2. “grow and flourish, and
3. “be taught
a. “righteousness and the dignity of humankind,
b. “resolution and the will to strive and to endure.
C. “Thus shall they learn
4. “perseverance in all things,
5. “the will to advance,
6. “high-mindedness and high resolve,
7. “chastity and purity of life.
D. “Thus shall they be enabled to
8. “carry to a successful conclusion whatsoever they undertake.”
(Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 131-132, no. 95.1)


Quote 3 on the importance of the spiritual education of girls:

“Certainly, the women teachers from Europe give instruction in language and scripts, and housekeeping, and embroidery and sewing; but their pupils’ character is completely altered, to such a point that the girls no longer care for their mothers, their disposition is spoiled, they misbehave, they become self-satisfied and proud.”
“Rather, girls ought to be trained in such a manner that from day to day they will become more self-effacing, more humble, and will defer to and obey their parents and forebears, and be a comfort and a solace to all.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Education, p. 47)



Quote 4 on the importance of the spiritual education of girls:

“Consider that if the mother is a believer, the children will become believers too, even if the father denieth the Faith; while, if the mother is not a believer, the chidlren are deprived of faith, even if the father be a believer convinced and firm. Such is the usual outcome, except in rare cases.”
“For this reason both fathers and mothers must carefully watch over their little daughters and have them thoroughly taught in the schools by highly qualified women teachers, so that they may familiarize themselves with all the sciences and arts and become acquainted with and reared in all that is necessary for human living, and will provide a family with comfort and joy.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Education, pp. 47-48)


Quote 5 on education for girls:

"The individual women should, today, follow a course of action which will be the cause of eternal glory to all womankind, so that all women will be illumined. And that lieth in gathering to learn how to teach, in holding meetings to recite the verses, to offer supplications to the kingdom of the Lord of evident signs, and to institute education for the girls."
(From a Tablet -- translated from Persian)


Quote 6 on the advisability of separate meetings for women:

"The Universal House of Justice has considered your email message of 16 July 1997 inquiring whether it is advisable for the friends to organize meetings that are only for women and has provided the following response.

"On more than one occasion, `Abdu'l-Baha praised meetings and other activities that had been organized for women, as shown by the following excerpts from His Writings, all of which are cited in the January 1986 Compilation on Women, prepared by the Research Department.
...
"The establishment of a women's assemblage for the promotion of knowledge is entirely acceptable, but discussions must be confined to educational matters. It should be done in such a way that differences will, day by day, be entirely wiped out, not that, God forbid, it will end in argumentation between men and women. As in the question of the veil, nothing should be done contrary to wisdom. The individual women should, today, follow a course of action which will be the cause of eternal glory to all womankind, so that all women will be illumined. And that lieth in gathering to learn how to teach, in holding meetings to recite the verses, to offer supplications to the kingdom of the Lord of evident signs, and to institute education for the girls.
(From a Tablet -- translated from Persian)

“While the following excerpt from a letter written on our behalf to an individual believer indicates that wisdom is needed in the holding of any meetings that are exclusive to one identifiable group, it also acknowledges that such meetings are sometimes necessary:

"The ideal perhaps would be for such apparently exclusive meetings to be unnecessary and for peculiar problems, no matter what group was affected by them, to be resolved in an atmosphere in which universal understanding could be achieved and all involved, despite their diverse backgrounds, would behave with sufficient sensitivity and wisdom. But it appears that there will always be the demand for some measure of specialization in different areas of social and spiritual development. There will continue, for example, to be a need for special activities related to youth, children, women and men, and to those of any grouping which is or has been pointedly disadvantaged. But such specialized activities as may be called for should surely not supersede, but rather fall within, the context of the process towards the goal of world unity." (underlining added)


Quote 7 on meetings for women focusing on motherhood


"The House of Justice regards the need to educate and guide women in their primary responsibility as mothers as an excellent opportunity for organizing women's activities. Your efforts should focus on helping them in their function as educators of the rising generation. Women should also be encouraged to attract their husbands and male members of their families to the Faith so that the Baha'i community will be representative of the society of which it forms a part. Gradually the spirit of unity and fellowship, as set forth in our teachings, will be reflected in the life of Baha'i families."
(????, Lights of Guidance, p. 617)




8. WHAT METHODS ARE TO BE USED?

A. Overview of Methods

Quote 1 (pray, read, speak):
“Thou hast written concerning the meetings and gathering places of the believers of God. Such assemblies and gatherings will greatly aid the promotion of the Word and all the audience, whether friends or not, will become affected. But when the friends have the intention of entering into these meetings they must disengage the heart from all other reflections, ask the Inexhaustible Divine Confirmation, and with the utmost devotion and humility set their feet in the gathering place. Let them not introduce any topic in the meeting except the mentioning of the True One, neither must they confuse that merciful assembly with complex outside questions. They must...either commune or supplicate and pray to God, either read Tablets or give out advices and exhortations.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)



Quote 2 (read, lecture, study outlines):

“By ‘verities of the Faith’ he means the great teachings and fundamentals enshrined in our Bahá’í literature; these we can find by reading the books, studying under Bahá’í scholars at summer schools and in classes, and through the aid of study outlines.” (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, April 19, 1947)

Summary Outline:
1) reading the books (study)
2) studying under Bahá’í scholars at summer schools and in classes (lecture
and discussion)
3) through the aid of study outlines (study)


Quote 3 (laboratory courses):

“...through laboratory courses designed to familiarize the participants with the processes of the Bahá’í Administrative Order...these schools, open to Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike, have set so noble an example as to inspire other Bahá’í communities...to undertake the initial measures designed to enable them to build along the same lines institutions that bid fair to evolve into the Bahá’í universities of the future.” (Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 12)


Quote 4: (spiritual preparation and study, teaching action and reflection,
and materials adoption/adaption/creation)

“Spiritual preparation could include
1. “prayer
2. “memorization of passages from the Writings
3. “study of the Writings about teaching, and
4. “deepening
“The time devoted to teaching should focus on
1. “an ongoing process of action and reflection:
a. “action,
i. “which is teaching between meetings, and
b. “reflection,
i. “which is consultation on
a. “what worked
b. “what still needs to be done, and
c. “what course of action to follow in the future.”
“Materials for expansion can involve
1. “use of the Word of God and
2. (use)“of” a. “other materials
b. “adaptation of existing materials or
c. “development of new materials based on the needs of
the group of people the institute is trying to teach.”
(An Evolutionary Approach to Teaching Institutes, prepared by National Teaching Committee, pp. 6-7)



B. Lecture, study classes, and seminar work


“Shoghi Effendi feels that the real purpose of these Summer Schools is to deepen the knowledge of the friends. Lectures are very essential for they give a wonderful picture of the subject matter. But it is not sufficient to have a picture; the friends should deepen their knowledge and this can be achieved if, together with the lectures, there are study classes and seminar work carried on by the same lecturer.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 71-72)

“There is a real lack in the Cause of people who know the teachings thoroughly, especially their deeper truths, and who can consequently teach the souls properly and lay a permanent foundation, one that tests and trials will not shake down.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 115)

“Inasmuch as it hath been clearly shown that only those who are initiated into the divine mysteries can comprehend the melodies uttered by the Bird of Heaven, it is therefore incumbent upon every one to seek enlightenment from the illumined in heart and from the Treasuries of divine mysteries regarding the intricacies of God’s Faith and the abstruse allusions in the utterances of the Daysprings of Holiness. Thus will these mysteries be unravelled, not by the aid of acquired learning, but solely through the assistance of God and the outpourings of His grace. “Ask ye, therefore, of them that have the custody of the Scriptures, if ye know it not.”” (Kitáb-i-Íqán, pp. 191-192, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 13)

“The friends need only read the Writings; the answers are all in them; we have no priests in this Faith to interpret or answer for us.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 120)

“You Bahá’í children and young people have both great privileges and great obligations ahead of you, for your generation will be the ones to help build up a new, better and more beautiful world after the dark years of this war are passed. You should prepare yourselves for this great task by trying to grasp the true meaning of the teachings and not just merely accepting them as something you are taught. They are like a wonderful new world of thought just beginning to be explored, and when we realize that Bahá’u’lláh has brought teachings and laws for a thousand years to come, we can readily see that each new generation may find some greater meaning in the writings than the ones gone before did.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Bahá’í Education, p. 306)

“By ‘verities of the Faith’ he means the great teachings and fundamentals enshrined in our Bahá’í literature; these we can find by reading the books, studying under Bahá’í scholars at summer schools and in classes, and through the aid of study outlines.” (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, April 19, 1947)

“Amongst other things is the holding of meetings for teaching so that blessed souls and the old ones from amongst the believers may gather together the youths of the love of God in schools of instruction.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings, p. 10)



C. Study outlines

By ‘verities of the Faith’ he means the great teachings and fundamentals enshrined in our Bahá’í literature; these we can find by reading the books, studying under Bahá’í scholars at summer schools and in classes, and through the aid of study outlines.” (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi, April 19, 1947 quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 107)


D. Discussion, speeches, reading, and singing

1. Read articles and give speeches

“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)

"Likewise the public meetings in which one day during the week the believers gather to be engaged in the commemoration of God, to read Communes and deliver effective speeches is acceptable and beloved."
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith, p. 411)


(see also sections I.9.A,B and pp. 91-92)


E. Homework


“Definite courses should be given along the different phases of the Bahá’í Faith and in a manner that will stimulate the students to proceed in their studies privately once they return home, for the period of a few days is not sufficient to learn everything. They have to be taught the habit of studying the Cause constantly, for the more we read the Words the more will the truth they contain be revealed to us.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 79)

“Although still young in age, you should endeavor from now, through close association with your fellow-believers, and through your faithful application, and through your faithful application to your Bahá’í studies, to prepare yourself for that day when you will be called upon, as a grown-up and responsible member of the Community, to take full part in the activities of the Cause, and thus prove yourself worthy of being a member of this world-wide Fellowship created by Bahá’u’lláh.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 95)

See also section “E. Need to Make Time for Study in Free Time.”



9. OBJECTIVES OR OUTCOMES OF STUDY CLASSES

A. To deliver eloquent speeches at meeting

“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)

"Likewise the public meetings in which one day during the week the believers gather to be engaged in the commemoration of God, to read Communes and deliver effective speeches is acceptable and beloved."
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith, p. 411)



B. Speeches in public (as well as Feast)

“We had heard through various channels the wonderful way your children had grown to speak about the Cause in public. Shoghi Effendi’s hope is that they will...become able and devoted speakers on the Cause and subjects akin to it. To do this properly they will need a firm foundation of scientific and literary training which fortunately they are obtaining. It is just as important for the Bahá’í young boys and girls to become properly educated in colleges of high standing as it is to be spiritually developed. The mental as well as the spiritual side of the youth has to be developed before he can serve the Cause efficiently.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Bahá’í Education, pp. 59)

As to the Nineteen Day festivity, it is of the utmost importance that the friends should gather at a meeting where, in complete attunement and love, they should engage in the remembrance of God and His praise, and converse as to the glad tidings of God, and proofs of the Advent of Baha'u'llah, and should recount the high deeds and sacrifices of the lovers of God in Persia, and tell of the martyrs' detachment from the world, and their ecstasy, and of how the believers there stood by one another and gave up everything they had.
The Nineteen Day festivity is, therefore, of very great importance.”
(From a Tablet to an individual believer - translated from the
Persian)
(`Abdu'l-Baha, The Nineteen Day Feast, p. 428)

“Even though the observance of the Feast requires strict adherence to the threefold aspects in the sequence in which they have been defined, there is much room for variety in the total experience. For example...’Abdu’l-Bahá recommends that eloquent, uplifting talks be given...” (On behalf of the Universal House of Justice, August 27, 1989 quoted in Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities, pp. 9.16-9.17)



C. Acquire speech

“Every child without exception must from his earliest years make a thorough study of the art of reading and writing, and according to his own tastes and inclinations and the degree of his capacity and powers, devote extreme diligence to the acquisition of learning, beneficial arts and skills, various languages, speech and contemporary technology.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Bahá’í Education, pp. 58)

“I wish to urge the necessity of concentrating, at your next summer session...on public speaking, and on a thorough discussion, both formally and informally, of various aspects of the Cause.” (Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 14)


D. Give speeches in leisure time

“Encourage ye the school children, from their earliest years, to deliver speeches of high quality, so that in their leisure time they will engage in giving cogent and effective talks, expressing themselves with clarity and eloquence.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 134)

“An effort should be made to raise the standard of studies, so as to provide the Bahá’í student with a thorough knowledge of the Cause that would enable him to expound it befittingly to the educated public.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 93)

“The Bahá’í youth must be taught how to teach the Cause of God. Their knowledge of the fundamentals of the Faith must be deepened and the standard of their education in science and literature enhanced. They must become thoroughly familiar with the language used and the example set by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His public addresses throughout the West. They must also be acquainted with those essential prerequisites of teaching as recorded in the Holy Books and Tablets.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 50-51)

“The Cause has the remedy for all the world’s ills. The reason why more people don’t accept it is because the Bahá’ís are not always capable of presenting it to them in a way that meets the immediate needs of their minds. Young Bahá’ís like yourself must prepare themselves to really bring the Message to their generation who needs it so desperately and who can understand the language it speaks so well.”
“He would advise you among other books to study the Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as His method of approaching the mind of the public cannot be surpassed.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 101)


E. Drama can be of great use

“The drama is of the utmost importance. It has been a great educational power in the past; it will be so again.” (Attributed to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in London, p. 93)

(Perhaps role-plays might be used for teaching the youth and others how to teach the Bahá’í Faith (e.g., teaching the proof of God’s existence to atheists, etc. or other proofs and the history, etc.).)


F. Meet people interested in lives and history of past prophets

1. Recommended Teaching audience include those interested in lives and history of past prophets (as covered in the Íqán)


“Whenever you teach in Yazd you should first speak to those interested in the lives and history of the prophets of the past, and then, little by little, discuss this Revelation with them.” (In Furútan, ‘A. Stories of Bahá’u’lláh, quoted in Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory, p. 149).


G. Give Firesides (as these meetings can prepare them for this)


1. Recommended Content of Firesides covered in study of Íqán (though
give Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era when giving out literature
as the latter is more of an overview of the teachings)


Note this next quote is not authentic text:
“In one Tablet ‘Abdu’l-Bahá recommends these topics:
1. “Bahá’u’lláh’s greatness,
2. “the profound influence of His Cause,
3. “His wondrous works, and
4. “His Tablets to the kings.
“All this means that we should talk more about the life of Bahá’u’lláh. Such a practice is not usually followed. All the points advocated by the Master are covered in His treatment of Bahá’u’lláh’s life in Some Answered Questions. Bahá’u’lláh asks us to compare the early history of our Faith with that of other Faiths. He provides us with an example in His Book of Certitude. His description is brief and basic. At the early stages, details should be left out. These are Bahá’u’lláh’s instructions to a believer:
“...begin teaching with the account of the history of the religions of the past and their Founders, similar to the accounts given in the Kitáb-i-Íqán. This would enable the inquirer to gain an insight into his own religion that he might recognize the truth and the reality of the Founder of his own Faith. When this state was reached, the individual would be ready to appreciate and understand the Cause of God for this day.”
(p. 92 Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory (quotation from The American Bahá’í, October 1986, p. 11))

See Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 431-433, for an excellent example of how ‘Abdu’l-Bahá proclaims the greatness of Bahá'u'lláh (in proclaiming His mission to the kings, etc.)


“As to the Esperantists, associate with them. Whenever you find one with capacity, convey to him the fragrances of Life. In all the meetings converse about the teachings of Baha'u'llah, because this will be effective today in the western countries. And if they ask regarding your belief in Baha'u'llah, you should reply that we consider Him as the foremost Teacher and Educator of the world in this age, and make clear, explaining in detail, that these teachings regarding universal peace and other subjects were revealed by the pen of Baha'u'llah fifty years ago and have already been published in Persia and India and spread abroad throughout the whole world. In the beginning all were incredulous about the idea of universal peace, considering it an impossibility. Further, speak of the greatness of Baha'u'llah, of the events that took place in Persia and Turkey, of the astonishing influence that He exerted, of the contents of the Epistles which He addressed to all the sovereigns, and of their fulfilment. Also speak of the spread of the Baha'i Cause. Associate with the Committee of Universal Peace at The Hague as much as possible, showing them every courtesy.”
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of `Abdu'l-Baha, p. 308)


a. Share literature of The Kitáb-i-Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era

From a letter to a believer in India: “Even though the book [Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era] was written by a Christian [Dr. Esslemont] and was meant to be for people of that Faith to read, yet it is a very fine presentation of the teachings as a whole and might prove interesting to other people as well. Shoghi Effendi surely hopes that before long the Cause may produce scholars that would write books which would be far deeper and more universal in scope, but for the present this is the best we possess to give a general idea as to the history and teachings of the Faith to new seekers. After reading this they get the necessary introduction to delve more deeply into the fundamental tenets such as are explained in the Íqán. Shoghi Effendi hopes that these books will greatly stimulate the teaching work in India and become the cause of guidance to many sincere souls.” (Messages of Shoghi Effendi to the Indian Subcontinent, October 19, 1932, p. 88)


2. Method of teaching praised which covers proofs (as in the Íqán)

“The method of instruction you have devised, namely, to begin by
1. “proving the existence and oneness of God, the Lord of Eternity,
2. “then to establish the validity of the mission proclaimed by the
prophets and messengers, and
3. “finally to explain the
a. “signs,
b. “the marvels and
c. “wonders of the universe,
“is highly acceptable and you should proceed accordingly. Confirmations from the Lord of Glory will assuredly be vouchsafed. Memorizing the texts of the holy Tablets, and of perspicuous words and statements is highly praiseworthy. You should exert the utmost endeavour in your efforts to educate, to expound, and to instruct.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 23)


H. Travel-Teach

“Praise be to God that through the divine bounty and providence, in that region the field of service is vast, the minds are in the utmost degree of intelligence and progress, sciences and arts are being promoted, the hearts like unto mirrors are in the utmost state of purity and translucency, and the friends of God are in perfect attraction. Therefore it is hoped that meetings for teaching will be organized and instituted, and for the diffusion of the fragrances of God wise teachers may be sent to cities, even to villages.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, 12:9, p. 88)



I. Adopt, adapt, or create Materials for expansion

“Materials for expansion can involve
1. “use of the Word of God and
2. (use)“of” a. “other materials
b. “adaptation of existing materials or
c. “development of new materials based on the needs of
the group of people the institute is trying to teach.”
(An Evolutionary Approach to Teaching Institutes, prepared by National Teaching Committee, pp. 6-7)


J. Bring other youth, Bahá’í or otherwise, to any of spectrum of activities,
including this class, according to their interest level

“...the institution of the Summer School constitutes a vital and inseparable part of any teaching campaign and as such ought to be given the full importance it deserves in the teaching plans and activities of the believers.” (The Guardian, quoted in The American Bahá’í, December 1980, p. 18)

“The Summer Schools provide a splendid setting and environment to which the best element among the colored race should be specially attracted. Through such association prejudice can be gradually eradicated, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s ardent wish fully realized.
“The Guardian finds it impossible to overestimate the importance and urgency of this sacred duty that confronts both the local and the national assemblies.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 12)

“The courses, lectures and general activities conducted by the friends should be arranged in such a way as to attract the attention of the outside public to the Cause. The Summer School is a high occasion for teaching the Message. Through daily association with the believers, non-Bahá’ís will come to see the Cause functioning as an active and living community entirely dedicated to the service of what is best and highest in the world. The lectures will familiarize them with the principles underlying the New World Order, while their participation in the social field of the believers will enable them to see the way in which these very same principles are put into operation.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 13)


II. Proofs and Proofs in Study Classes



PROOFS AND PROOFS IN STUDY CLASSES (SUMMARIES)

1. PROOFS ARE IMPORTANT TO STUDY (p. )
2. STUDY KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS (p. )
3. WHAT IS COVERED IN THE ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS
(p. )
4. ASPECTS OF KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS TO
STUDY (p. )

5. COVER PROOFS IN MEETING (p. )
6. USE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS IN MEETINGS
(p. )
7. FIND SEEKERS INTERESTED IN AND ARRANGE MEETINGS ABOUT
THE PROOFS AND PROPHETS (p. )
8. FURTHER ACTIVITIES WITH THE PROOFS (p. )
9. USE EXAMPLE AND METHODS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ IN TALKS (p. )


PROOFS AND PROOFS IN STUDY CLASSES (DETAILED SUMMARIES)

1. PROOFS ARE IMPORTANT TO STUDY
A. Memorize logical points and proofs of Holy Books establishing
Bahá’u’lláh as fulfillment of Promises

1. “evidences that the Most Great Name hath dawned”
2. Proofs and evidences which establish the fact that
Bahá’u’lláh is the fulfillment of the Promises of the Holy
Book

B. Memorize proofs which are collected
C. Most vital aspect spiritual Crusade in South duty enlighten re:
relationship of Faith with Dispensations preceding it
D. Instruction in Proofs - Nothing more important
E. Special Emphasis on Proofs for Bahá’í women (the “leaves”) and
why
2. STUDY KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS
3. WHAT IS COVERED IN THE ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS
4. USE ÍQÁN TO TEACH

5. COVER PROOFS IN MEETING
6. USE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS IN STUDY
MEETINGS
7. FIND SEEKERS INTERESTED IN AND ARRANGE MEETINGS ABOUT
THE PROOFS AND PROPHETS
A. Meet people interested in lives and history of past prophets
1. Recommended Teaching audience include those interested
in lives and history of past prophets (as covered in the Íqán
or Some Answered Questions)

B. Give Firesides (as these meetings can prepare them for this)
1. Recommended Content of Firesides covered in study of Íqán
(though give Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era when
giving out literature as the latter is more of an overview of
the teachings)

a. Share literature of The Kitáb-i-Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh
and the New Era

2. Method of teaching praised which covers proofs (as in the Íqán)

8. FURTHER ACTIVITIES WITH THE PROOFS

A. Collect proofs
B. Study the Bible, Qur’án, and other Holy Books (and proofs for the
religionists following these Holy Books) (in meetings also)
C. Hold courses on Islám (especially regarding the early history of the
Faith, but also to show its progression over Christianity, its bringing
about the (good) fruits of modern Western civilization and
indirectly bringing about the Reformation, etc.


9. USE EXAMPLE AND METHODS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ IN TALKS


PROOFS AND PROOFS IN STUDY CLASSES (QUOTES AND DETAILED
SUMMARIES)

1. PROOFS ARE IMPORTANT TO STUDY

A. Memorize logical points and proofs of Holy Books establishing
Bahá’u’lláh as fulfillment of Promises

1. “evidences that the Most Great Name hath dawned”

“...O ye illumined youth, strive by night and by day to unravel the mysteries of the mind and spirit, and to grasp the secrets of the Day of God. Inform yourselves of the evidences that the Most Great Name hath dawned. Open your lips in praise. Adduce convincing arguments and proofs. Lead those who thirst to the fountain of life.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 25-26)

2. Proofs and evidences which establish the fact that Bahá’u’lláh is the
fulfillment of the Promises of the Holy Book


“It is very good to memorize the logical points and the proofs of the Holy Books. Those proofs and evidences which establish the fact that Bahá’u’lláh is the fulfillment of the Promises of the Holy Book. These proofs ought to be collected and memorized.”
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Star of the West, vol. 3, no. 11, Sept. 27, 1912, (quoted on p. 201 Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory))

B. Memorize proofs which are collected

“These proofs ought to be collected and memorized. As soon as someone will ask you–What are your proofs?–you may cry out at the top of your voice and say: “Here they are!”” (Utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 43)

C. Most vital aspect spiritual Crusade in South duty enlighten re:
relationship of Faith with Dispensations preceding it

“The paramount duty of deepening the spiritual life of these newly fledged, these precious and highly esteemed co-workers, and of enlightening their minds regarding...the salient events of the Heroic and Formative Ages of the Faith, and its relationship with the Dispensations that have preceded it...must continue to constitute the most vital aspect of the great spiritual Crusade launched by the champions of the Faith from among the peoples of their sister republics in the South.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 59-60)


D. Instruction in Proofs - Nothing more important

“In this day there is nothing more important than the instruction and study of clear proofs and convincing, heavenly arguments, for therein lie the source of life and the path of salvation” ('Abdu’l-Bahá, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith , p. 22).

In this age peoples of the world need the arguments of reason” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Some Answered Questions, Chapter 3).

“As that Light of Reality (Bahá’u’lláh) has set, all are in need of proofs of the truth of His claim” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Some Answered Questions, Chapter 10).

"It is imperative to acquire the knowledge of divine proofs and evidences...This matter is highly important. It is binding on everyone and must be regarded as an obligation." ('Abdu’l-Bahá, from a newly translated Tablet, Pearls of Wisdom : The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith , p. 21)

Every subject presented to a thoughtful audience must be supported by rational proofs and logical arguments.” (`Abdu'l-Baha, Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 253)

“If thou wishest the divine knowledge and recognition, purify thy heart from all beside God, be wholly attracted to the ideal, beloved One; search for and choose Him and apply thyself to rational and authoritative arguments. For arguments are a guide to the path and by this the heart will be turned unto the Sun of Truth. And when the heart is turned unto the Sun, then the eye will be opened and will recognize the Sun through the Sun itself. Then (man) will be in no need of arguments (or proofs), for the sun is altogether independent, and absolute independence is in need of nothing, and proofs are one of the things (of which absolute independence has no need). Be not like Thomas; be thou like Peter.” (Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 168, quoted in Divine Art of Living, pp. 51-52)

“First of all, let us determine whether these Prophets were valid or not by using rational proofs and shining arguments, not simply by quoting traditionary evidences, because traditions are divergent and the source of dissension.” (`Abdu'l-Baha, Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 345)

“But now, as that Light of Reality has set, all are in need of proofs; so we have undertaken to demonstrate rational proofs of the truth of His claim.

(`Abdu'l-Baha: Some Answered Questions, Page: 36)


“If thou wishest the divine knowledge and recognition, purify thy heart from all beside God, be wholly attracted to the ideal, beloved One; search for and choose Him and apply thyself to rational and authoritative arguments. For arguments are a guide to the path and by this the heart will be turned unto the Sun of Truth. And when the heart is turned unto the Sun, then the eye will be opened and will recognize the Sun through the Sun itself. Then (man) will be in no need of arguments (or proofs), for the sun is altogether independent, and absolute independence is in need of nothing, and proofs are one of the things (of which absolute independence has no need). Be not like Thomas; be thou like Peter.” (Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 168, quoted in Divine Art of Living, pp. 51-52)



E. Special Emphasis on Proofs for Bahá’í women (the “leaves”) and why:

“O ye handmaidens who are attracted to the divine fragrances!... Confirmations from the kingdom of God will assuredly be received, enabling some radiant leaves to appear resplendent in the assemblage of this world with clear proofs and convincing reasons, which will adorn the cause of womanhood. They will prove that in this cycle women are equal to men, nay in certain respects they will excel. Ponder ye: in this wonderful Cause numerous were the men who scaled the heights of knowledge; they had a brilliant utterance, a convincing proof, an eloquent tongue and magnificent speech, but the blessed leaf, Jináb-i-Táhirih, because she was a woman, emerged with immense splendour and dumbfounded all the people. If she were a man, this would not have been so at all. Therefore, ye should know that the greatness of the Cause hath penetrated the nerves and veins of the world in such wise that if one of the leaves is attracted and gains mastery in demonstrating reasons and proofs and in uttering convincing evidences, she will shine resplendently. O radiant leaves, I swear by the Beauty of the Desired One and the Mystery of Existence that if ye work actively in this realm, the outpourings of the Blessed Beauty will reflect as the sun in the mirrors of the hearts. Your progress will astonish all.”
“The attracted leaves should not, when associating with each other, talk merely about the temperature of the weather, the coldness of the water, the beauty of the flowers and gardens, the freshness of the grass and the flowing water. They should rather restrict their discussions to glorification and praise and the uttering of proofs and reasons, to quoting verses and traditions and putting forth clear testimonies, so that all the homes of the loved ones will be converted into gathering places for lessons on teaching the Cause.”
“If ye do so, in a short while the outpourings of the Kingdom will be so manifested that each one of the handmaidens of the Merciful will become a perspicuous book revealing the mysteries of the Lord of Mercy. Upon you be the glory of glories.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Women compilation, pp. 48-49)

“I swear by that Peerless Beauty, Who is in the Unseen Kingdom, that when the leaves loose their tongues in praise and glorification of the All-Loving Lord, and in teaching the Cause of the Kind Lord, the concourse of the Kingdom and the inmates of the Unseen Realms will give ear, and cry out with exclamations of extreme joy and jubilation.” The Compilation of Compilations, vol. 2, p. 398 (quoted on p. 201 Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory)

“O ye pure and esteemed leaves who are nigh to the Court of Glory! Blessed, blessed are ye for ye have arranged spiritual meetings and engaged in propounding divine proofs and evidences. Ye are intent on vindicating truth in support of the manifest Light of the Cause, through conclusive arguments and proofs based on the sacred scriptures of the past. This is a very noble aim, and this cherished hope a cause of the illumination of all peoples and nations.
“From the beginning of existence until the present day, in any of the past cycles and dispensations, no assemblies for women have ever been established and classes for the purpose of spreading the teachings were never held by them. This is one of the characteristics of this glorious Dispensations and this great century. Ye should, most certainly, strive to perfect this assemblage and increase your knowledge of the realities of heavenly mysteries, so that, God willing, in a short time, women will become the same as men; they will take a leading position amongst the learned, will each have a fluent tongue and eloquent speech, and shine like unto lamps of guidance throughout the world. In some respects, women have astonishing capacities; they hasten in their attraction to God, and are intense in their fiery ardour for Him. In brief, spend your nights and days in the study of the holy Utterances and in acquiring perfections. Occupy yourselves always in discussing these matters. When ye meet each other, convey the glad-tidings and impart hope to one another because of the confirmations and bounties of the Ancient and Ever-Living Lord. Let each set forth proofs and evidences, and talk about the mysteries of the Kingdom, so that the true and divine Spirit may permeate the body of the contingent world and the secrets of all things, whether of the past or of the future, may become openly manifest and resplendent.”
“O loved handmaidens of God! Consider not your present merits and capacities, rather fix your gaze on the favours and confirmations of the Blessed Beauty, because His everlasting grace will make of the insignificant plant a blessed tree, will turn the mirage into cool water and wine; will cause the forsaken atom to become the very essence of being, the puny one erudite in the school of knowledge. It enableth a thorny bush to give forth blossoms, and the dark earth to produce fragrant and rich hyacinths. It will transmute the stone into a ruby of great price, and fill the sea shells with brilliant pearls. It will assist a fledgling school child to become a learned teacher and enable a frail embryo to reveal the reality of the verse: “Hallowed be the Lord, the Most Excellent of all creators.” {Qur’án 23:14} Verily, my Lord is powerful over things.”
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Women compilation, pp. 49-50)

to the "leaves":

"Verily, I implore God to gaze upon you with the eye of His mercy, to raise you through a godlike power, to move you by the breezes of His glory, to make you fluent in irrefutable and divine proofs and arguments, to sever you from the world and all therein, to purify and sanctify you from every material grade, and enable you to diffuse the bounties of the Divine Worlds." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, 31)

“'Abdu'l-Bahá's supreme joy is in observing that a number of leaves from among the handmaidens of the Blessed Beauty have been educated, that they are the essence of detachment, and are well-informed of the mysteries of the world of being; that they raise such a call in their glorification and praise of the Greatest Name as to cause the inmates of the Fanes of the Kingdom to become attracted and overjoyed, and that they recite prayers in prose and poetry, and melodiously chant the divine verses. I cherish the hope that thou wilt be one of them, wilt cast forth pearls, wilt be constantly engaged in singing His praise and wilt intone celestial strains in glorification of His attributes....” (From a Tablet - translated from the Persian, Women Compilation #40)


F. Influence of Holy Spirit on Giving Proofs

to the "leaves": "Verily, I implore God to gaze upon you with the eye of His mercy, to raise you through a godlike power, to move you by the breezes of His glory, to make you fluent in irrefutable and divine proofs and arguments, to sever you from the world and all therein, to purify and sanctify you from every material grade, and enable you to diffuse the bounties of the Divine Worlds." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, 31)

"I now assure thee, O servant of God, that, if thy mind become empty and pure from every mention and thought and thy heart attracted wholly to the Kingdom of God, forgetting all else besides God and coming into communion with the Spirit of God, then the Holy Spirit will assist thee with a power which will enable thee to penetrate all things, and a Dazzling Spark which enlightens all sides; a Brilliant Flame in the zenith of the heavens, will teach thee that which thou dost not know of the facts of the universe and of the divine doctrine. Verily, I say unto thee, every soul that ariseth today to guide others to the path of safety and infuse into them the Spirit of Life, the Holy Spirit will inspire that soul with evidences, proofs and facts, and the lights will shine upon it from the Kingdom of God. Do not forget what I have conveyed unto thee from the breath of the Spirit. Verily it is the shining morn and the rosy dawn which will impart unto thee the lights, reveal the mysteries and make thee competent in science, and through it the pictures of the Supreme World will be printed in thy heart and the facts of the secrets of the Kingdom of God will shine before thee." ('Abdu'l-Bahá????, Bahá'í World Faith, p. 369)


2. STUDY KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS

A. Importance of the Íqán

“...it is the most fundamental book on the Bahá’í Revelation.” (From a postscript in the hand of Shoghi Effendi on a letter written on his behalf to an individual believer, 25 August 1932)

“unique repository of inestimable treasures...of unsurpassed preeminence among the doctrinal...writings of the Author of the Bahá’í Dispensation” (Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, pp. 138, 139)

“Foremost among the priceless treasures cast forth from the billowing ocean of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation ranks the Kitáb-i-Íqán (Book of Certitude)...” (Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, pp. 138-139)

“The Íqán has been described by Bahá’u’lláh in one of His Tablets at the World Centre as the ‘Siyyid-i-Kutúb’ - the Lord of Books.” (Hooper Dunbar, A Companion to the Study of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 3)

“A model of Persian prose, of a style at once original, chaste and vigorous, and remarkably lucid, both cogent in argument and matchless in its irresistible eloquence, this Book, setting forth in outline the Grand Redemptive Scheme of God, occupies a position unequalled by any work in the entire range of Bahá’í literature, except the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Bahá’u’lláh’s Most Holy Book. Revealed on the eve of the declaration of His Mission, it proffered to mankind the ‘Choice Sealed Wine’, whose seal is of ‘musk’, and broke the ‘seals’ of the ‘Book’ referred to by Daniel, and disclosed the meaning of the ‘words’ destined to remain ‘closed up’ till the ‘time of the end’.” (Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, pp. 138-139)

“...this [the Íqán] is a very important and fundamental book...” (Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, vol. ii, pp. 121-122)

“The Íqán is the most important book written on the spiritual significance of the Cause. I do not believe any person can consider himself well versed in the teachings unless he has studied it thoroughly.” (Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, vol. i., p. 37)


B. Íqán and works of Mírzá Abu’l-Fadl to be read


“Thou didst ask as to acquiring knowledge: read thou the Books and Tablets of God, and the articles written to demonstrate the truth of this Faith. Included among them are the “Íqán”, which hath been translated into English, the works of Mírzá Abu’l-Fadl, and those of some others among the believers. In the days to come a great number of holy Tablets and other sacred writings will be translated, and thou shouldst read these as well. Likewise, ask thou of God that the magnet of His love should draw unto thee the knowledge of Him. Once a soul becometh holy in all things, purified, sanctified, the gates of the knowledge of God will open wide before his eyes.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 32-33)


C. Young Bahá’ís to study “Íqán” and “Some Answered Questions”

“as to what subjects within the Faith you should concentrate on he feels that the young Bahá’ís should gain a mastery of such books as the “Gleanings”, the “Dawn-breakers”, “God Passes By”, the “Íqán”, “Some Answered Questions” and the more important Tablets. All aspects of the Faith should be deeply studied.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 105)

“Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society. Besides this there is Some Answered Questions of the Master and The Dawn-Breakers of Nabíl. Every Bahá’í should master these books and be able to explain their contents to others. Besides their importance, they are interesting and most absorbing.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Compilation of Compilations, vol. 1, p. 215)


3. WHAT IS COVERED IN THE ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS

A. The Íqán, “Some Answered Questions” reveal:
1) significance of this revelation
2) unity of all the Prophets of old


“The...books will reveal to them the significance of this divine revelation as well as the unity of all the Prophets of old.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 77)


B. What is covered in the Íqán


“The Íqán is the most important book written on the spiritual significance of the Cause.” (Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, vol. i., p. 37)

“...the Íqán is the most important book wherein Bahá’u’lláh explains the basic beliefs of the Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 28 June 1930)

“He is very eager to have this wonderful book translated well, for it is the best means of grounding those who become interested in the fundamental teachings of the Faith. The Íqán and Dr Esslemont’s book will be sufficient to make any seeker a true believer in the divine nature of the Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in A Companion to the Study of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 2)

“...‘the Book of Certitude’ by Bahá’u’lláh...contains the very essence of the Teachings, and because of its clarity and its relative simplicity can greatly appeal to every thoughtful reader...the Íqán deepens the knowledge of the reader by acquainting him with some of the basic theological problems of the Faith. It is, therefore, indispensable for every student of the Movement...” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in A Companion to the Study of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, pp. 2-3)

“Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your effort to deepen your knowledge of the literature of the Movement, until you become fully acquainted with its spirit and tenets. Unless you do obtain such a firm hold you will never be able to teach others and render real service to the promulgation of the Faith. Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society. Besides this there is Some Answered Questions of the Master and The Dawn-Breakers of Nabíl. Every Bahá’í should master these books and be able to explain their contents to others. Besides their importance, they are interesting and most absorbing.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Compilation of Compilations, vol. 1, p. 215)

“Although We did not intend to make mention of the traditions of a bygone age, yet, because of Our love for thee, We will cite a few which are applicable to Our argument. We do not feel their necessity, however, inasmuch as the things We have already mentioned suffice the world and all that is therein. In fact, all the Scriptures and the mysteries thereof are condensed into this brief account. So much so, that were a person to ponder it awhile in his heart, he would discover from all that hath been said the mysteries of the Words of God, and would apprehend the meaning of whatever hath been manifested by that ideal King.” (Bahá’u’lláh, The Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 237)

“The Báb specified that the "Bayán" is not completed and that "He Whom God would manifest" (Bahá'u'lláh) would complete it, though not in its actual form, but only spiritually in the form of another book. The "Íqán” is believed to be its continuation.” (Shoghi Effendi, Dawn of a New Day, February 17, 1939, p. 78)

“A model of Persian prose, of a style at once original, chaste and vigorous, and remarkably lucid, both cogent in argument and matchless in its irresistible eloquence, this Book, setting forth in outline the Grand Redemptive Scheme of God, occupies a position unequalled by any work in the entire range of Bahá’í literature, except the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Bahá’u’lláh’s Most Holy Book. Revealed on the eve of the declaration of His Mission, it proffered to mankind the ‘Choice Sealed Wine’, whose seal is of ‘musk’, and broke the ‘seals’ of the ‘Book’ referred to by Daniel, and disclosed the meaning of the ‘words’ destined to remain ‘closed up’ till the ‘time of the end’.” (Shoghi Effendi, God Passes By, pp. 138-139)
SEE GOD PASSES BY, PP. 138-139 FOR A MORE DETAILED SYNOPSIS OF ITS CONTENTS OR A COMPANION TO THE STUDY OF THE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN, PP. 8-14 AND 24-27 FOR NOTES AND AN OUTLINE VERSION RESPECTIVELY OF THE THEMES DESCRIBED IN GOD PASSES BY


4. USE ÍQÁN TO TEACH

“He was particularly gratified to learn of your intention to make a thorough study of the ‘Kitáb-i-Íqán’ during this summer...The friends, and particularly those who wish to become competent and useful teachers, should indeed consider it to be their first duty to acquaint themselves, as thoroughly as they can, with each and every detail contained in this Holy Book, so that they may be able to present the Message in a befitting manner.
“It is the Guardian’s hope, therefore, that those among the believers who have thus far and for some reason or another, failed to make a serious study of this important work will be stimulated to do so, and will as a result deepen their comprehension of the essentials of the Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in A Companion to the Study of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 3)

“Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your effort to deepen your knowledge of the literature of the Movement, until you become fully acquainted with its spirit and tenets. Unless you do obtain such a firm hold you will never be able to teach others and render real service to the promulgation of the Faith. Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society. Besides this there is Some Answered Questions of the Master and The Dawn-Breakers of Nabíl. Every Bahá’í should master these books and be able to explain their contents to others. Besides their importance, they are interesting and most absorbing.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Compilation of Compilations, vol. 1, p. 215)

“The Sacred Books are full of allusions to this new dispensation. In the Book of Íqán, Bahá’u’lláh gives the key-note and explains some of the outstanding passages hoping that the friends will continue to study the Sacred Books by themselves and unfold the mysteries found therein.

“The people, failing to comprehend the meaning of the symbols and the truth of the Sacred Verses, thought them to be myths and unrealizable dreams. It is the duty of the friends who have been endowed by Bahá’u’lláh with the power of discernment to study these Sacred Books, ponder upon their passages and teach the disheartened people of the earth the treasures of knowledge they enclose.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 65)


5. COVER PROOFS IN STUDY CLASSES

“Amongst other things is the holding of meetings for teaching so that blessed souls and the old ones from amongst the believers may gather together the youths of the love of God in schools of instruction and
1) “teach them all the divine proofs and irrefragable arguments,
2) “explain and elucidate the history of the Cause, and
3) ”interpret also the prophecies and proofs which are recorded and
are extant in the divine Books and Epistles regarding the
manifestation of the Promised One,
so that the young ones may go in perfect knowledge in all these degrees.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, no. 8:15, p. 54, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 10)

“Verily, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá inhaleth the fragrance of the love of God from every meeting place where the Word of God is uttered, and proofs and arguments set forth, that shed their rays across the world; and where they recount the tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the evil hands of those who have violated the Covenant of God...Tell thou of abiding joy and spiritual delights, and godlike qualities, and of how the Sun of Truth hath risen above the earth’s horizons; tell of the blowing of the spirit of life into the body of the world. ” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 8)

“Verily, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá inhaleth the fragrance of the love of God from every meeting place where the Word of God is uttered, and proofs and arguments set forth, that shed their rays across the world; and where they recount the tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the evil hands of those who have violated the Covenant of God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 8)

“It is my hope that from day to day your gatherings will grow and flourish, and that those who are seeking after truth will hearken therein to reasoned arguments and conclusive proofs. I am with you heart and soul at every meeting; be sure of this.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 9)

“At these meetings, there should be no extraneous conversation whatever. Rather, the assemblage should confine itself to reading and reciting the Holy Words, and to the discussion of matters relating to the Cause of God, expounding, for example, conclusive proofs and arguments, and the Writings of the Best Beloved of mankind.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'í Meetings, p. 9)

"It is imperative to acquire the knowledge of divine proofs and evidences, and to acquaint oneself with convincing testimonies which demonstrate the revelation of God’s resplendent Light. The study group thou didst organize hath imparted much joy and happiness to the heart of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Thou must exert much effort and show forth perseverance and constancy that, God willing, through the reviving breaths of His mercy, souls may be so educated as to become like radiant candles shining in the assemblage of divine knowledge and understanding. This matter is highly important. It is binding on everyone and must be regarded as an obligation." ('Abdu’l-Bahá, from a newly translated Tablet, Pearls of Wisdom : The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith , p. 21)

“I beseech God that within a short time thou mayest be able to acquaint the children of the Abhá Paradise with the divine mysteries and truths and to rend asunder the veils of idle imaginings, that each one of them may become a fluent speaker and be able to guide many others to the Cause of God. Then will the outpourings of the heavenly bounties become manifest and the invisible hosts of the Kingdom, armed with conclusive proofs and evidences, will conquer the realms of the inner realities and domains of the hearts of men, even as a single seed developing into seven ears of grain. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 22)

“You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The foundation of the spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maidservants of the Merciful must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of the Beauty of Abhá–May my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become informed of the Divine Evidences and Proofs.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)

“The attainment of the most great guidance is dependent upon knowledge and wisdom, and on being informed as to the mysteries of the Holy Words. Wherefore must the loved ones of God, be they young or old, be they men or women, each one according to his capabilities, strive
1. “to acquire the various branches of knowledge, and
2. “to increase his
a. “understanding of the mysteries of the Holy Books, and
b. “his skill in marshaling the divine proofs and evidences.”
“Praise be to God that through the divine bounty and providence, in that region the field of service is vast, the minds are in the utmost degree of intelligence and progress, sciences and arts are being promoted, the hearts like unto mirrors are in the utmost state of purity and translucency, and the friends of God are in perfect attraction. Therefore it is hoped that meetings for teaching will be organized and instituted, and for the diffusion of the fragrances of God wise teachers may be sent to cities, even to villages.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, 12:9, p. 88)

“Whatever meeting is held to celebrate the memory of the Abhá Beauty and to listen to the recital of the divine utterances is indeed a rose garden of the Kingdom and that gathering is strengthened by the reviving breaths of holiness that waft from the unseen world, inasmuch as the outpourings of divine grace are the light of that gathering and in it the effulgent splendours of His mercy are made manifest.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 23-24)

“When your hearts are wholly attracted to the one true God you will acquire divine knowledge, will become attentive to the proofs and testimonies and will commit to memory the glad-tidings concerning the Manifestation of the Beauty of the All-Merciful, as mentioned in the heavenly Scriptures. Then ye shall behold how wondrous are His confirmations and how gracious is His assistance. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 20)

“Amongst other things is the holding of the meetings for teaching–so that blessed souls and the old ones from amongst the believers may gather together the youths of the love of God in schools of instruction and teach them all the divine proofs and irrefragable arguments, explain and elucidate the history of the Cause, and interpret also the prophecies and proofs which are recorded and are extant in the divine Books and Epistles regarding the Manifestation of the Promised One, so that the young ones may go in perfect knowledge in all these degrees.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast, p. 10)

“If it were possible that in every city a few of the awakened ones, when opportunity is offered, could hold a meeting, and therein habitually present the proofs and arguments of God, this would do much to expand the consciousness of man; provided, however, that the discourse be kept to this one theme.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 7)

“Once in every week, gather ye the steadfast friends together in a meeting place, and there let them engage in praising and glorifying the Lord.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 6)

“At these meetings, there should be no extraneous conversation whatever. Rather, the assemblage should confine itself to reading and reciting the Holy Words, and to the discussion of matters relating to the Cause of God, expounding, for example, conclusive proofs and arguments, and the Writings of the Best Beloved of mankind. Those who present themselves at these gatherings must first array themselves in spotless clothing, turn their faces toward the Kingdom of Abhá, and then with lowliness and submissiveness enter in. During the readings they must maintain complete silence. Should anyone wish to speak, he should say in all humility, with exactitude and eloquence. Salutations be unto you, and praise.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 9)

(In a letter giving suggested goals for Local Spiritual Assemblies, the following is mentioned in a letter from the Universal House of Justice:)
“9. Can regular meetings for the benefit of the local friends be held? If so, how often and when?...’Abdu’l-Bahá exhorts the friends to hold such meetings as a “constant” activity, and praises weekly meetings. He repeatedly counsels the believers to read and recite the Holy Word in such meetings and deliver speeches on the teachings, the proofs and the history of the Faith.” (Universal House of Justice, letter dated December 24, 1975 to a National Spiritual Assembly)
Quote 1 on meetings of women believers:

(As boys and girls are to have the same curriculum, are boys not to be included in these meetings, or is this an extra emphasis for women or for those who had already congregated for focusing on the education of children?)

“O handmaids of the beauty of Abhá! Your letter hath come, and its perusal brought great joy. Praised be God, the women believers have organized meetings where they
1. “will learn how to teach the Faith,
2. “will spread the sweet savors of the Teachings and
3. “(will) make plans for training the children.”
A. “This gathering must be completely spiritual.
1. “That is, the discussion must be confined to marshaling clear and
conclusive proofs that the Sun of Truth hath indeed arisen.
B. “And further, those present should concern themselves
1. “with every means of training the girl children;
2. “with teaching
a. “the various branches of knowledge,
b. “good behavior,
c. “a proper way of life,
d. “the cultivation of a good character,
e. “chastity and constancy,
f. “perseverance,
g. “strength,
h. “determination,
i. “firmness of purpose;
3. “with
a. “household management,
b. “the education of children, and
c. “whatever especially applieth to the needs of girls
“to the end that these girls, reared in the stronghold of all perfections,
and with the protection of a goodly character, will, when they themselves
become mothers, bring up their children from earliest infancy to have a
good character and conduct themselves well.”
C. “Let them also study
1. “whatever will nurture
a. “the health of the body and
b. “its physical soundness, and
2. “how to guard their children from disease.”
“When matters are thus well arranged, every child will become a peerless
plant in the gardens of the Abhá Paradise.”
(Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 130-131, no. 94.1-94.4)


Quote 2 on meetings of women believers:

“O handmaids of the Lord! The spiritual assemblage that ye established in that illumined city is most propitious. Ye have made great strides; ye have surpassed the others, have arisen to serve the Holy Threshold, and have won heavenly bestowals.

A. “Now with all spiritual zeal must ye:
1. ”gather in that enlightened assemblage and recite the Holy Writings
2. “and engage in remembering the Lord.
B. “Set ye forth His arguments and proofs.
C. “Work ye for the guidance of the women in that land,
“teach the young girls and the children, so that the mothers may
a. “educate their little ones from their earliest days,
b. “thoroughly train them,
c. “rear them to have a goodly character and good morals,
d. “guide them to all the virtues of humankind,
e. “prevent the development of any behavior that would be
worthy of blame, and
f. “foster them in the embrace of Bahá’í education.

A. “Thus shall these tender infants
1. “be nurtured at the breast of the knowledge of God and His love.
B. “Thus shall they
2. “grow and flourish, and
3. “be taught
a. “righteousness and the dignity of humankind,
b. “resolution and the will to strive and to endure.
C. “Thus shall they learn
4. “perseverance in all things,
5. “the will to advance,
6. “high-mindedness and high resolve,
7. “chastity and purity of life.
D. “Thus shall they be enabled to
8. “carry to a successful conclusion whatsoever they undertake.”
(Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 131-132, no. 95.1)


6. USE KITÁB-I-ÍQÁN AND SOME ANSWERED QUESTIONS IN STUDY
MEETINGS

You should form study classes and read the important books that have been published, especially the ‘Íqán’, which contains the basic tenets of the Faith. The one who ponders that book and grasps its full significance will obtain a clear insight into the old scriptures and appreciate the true Mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh.”
(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 69-70)

7. FIND SEEKERS INTERESTED IN AND ARRANGE MEETINGS ABOUT
THE PROOFS AND PROPHETS

A. Meet people interested in lives and history of past prophets

1. Recommended Teaching audience include those interested in lives and history of past prophets (as covered in the Íqán)


“Whenever you teach in Yazd you should first speak to those interested in the lives and history of the prophets of the past, and then, little by little, discuss this Revelation with them.” (in Furútan, ‘A. Stories of Bahá’u’lláh, quoted in Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory, p. 149).
B. Give Firesides (as these meetings can prepare them for this)


1. Recommended Content of Firesides covered in study of Íqán (though
give Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era when giving out literature
as the latter is more of an overview of the teachings)


Note this next quote is not authentic text:
“In one Tablet ‘Abdu’l-Bahá recommends these topics:
1. “Bahá’u’lláh’s greatness,
2. “the profound influence of His Cause,
3. “His wondrous works, and
4. “His Tablets to the kings.
“All this means that we should talk more about the life of Bahá’u’lláh. Such a practice is not usually followed. All the points advocated by the Master are covered in His treatment of Bahá’u’lláh’s life in Some Answered Questions. Bahá’u’lláh asks us to compare the early history of our Faith with that of other Faiths. He provides us with an example in His Book of Certitude. His description is brief and basic. At the early stages, details should be left out. These are Bahá’u’lláh’s instructions to a believer:
“...begin teaching with the account of the history of the religions of the past and their Founders, similar to the accounts given in the Kitáb-i-Íqán. This would enable the inquirer to gain an insight into his own religion that he might recognize the truth and the reality of the Founder of his own Faith. When this state was reached, the individual would be ready to appreciate and understand the Cause of God for this day.”
(Teaching, the Crown of Immortal Glory, p. 92 (quote from The American Bahá’í, October 1986, p. 11))

See Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 431-433, for an excellent example of how ‘Abdu’l-Bahá proclaims the greatness of Bahá'u'lláh (in proclaiming His mission to the kings, etc.)

a. Share literature of The Kitáb-i-Íqán after Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era

From a letter to a believer in India: “Even though the book [Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era] was written by a Christian [Dr. Esslemont] and was meant to be for people of that Faith to read, yet it is a very fine presentation of the teachings as a whole and might prove interesting to other people as well. Shoghi Effendi surely hopes that before long the Cause may produce scholars that would write books which would be far deeper and more universal in scope, but for the present this is the best we possess to give a general idea as to the history and teachings of the Faith to new seekers. After reading this they get the necessary introduction to delve more deeply into the fundamental tenets such as are explained in the Íqán. Shoghi Effendi hopes that these books will greatly stimulate the teaching work in India and become the cause of guidance to many sincere souls.” (Messages of Shoghi Effendi to the Indian Subcontinent, October 19, 1932, p. 88)


2. Method of teaching praised which covers proofs (as in the Íqán)

“The method of instruction you have devised, namely, to begin by
1. “proving the existence and oneness of God, the Lord of Eternity,
2. “then to establish the validity of the mission proclaimed by the
prophets and messengers, and
3. “finally to explain the
a. “signs,
b. “the marvels and
c. “wonders of the universe,
“is highly acceptable and you should proceed accordingly. Confirmations from the Lord of Glory will assuredly be vouchsafed. Memorizing the texts of the holy Tablets, and of perspicuous words and statements is highly praiseworthy. You should exert the utmost endeavour in your efforts to educate, to expound, and to instruct.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 23)


a. Teach Jews about Christ (and Muhammad) as well as Bahá’u’lláh

“It was not possible to make the subject completely plain to the rabbi last night, as he was very much pressed for time, but today the opportunity was sufficient for a reconsideration of the statements in detail. I wish you to understand them thoroughly and memorize them in order that you may discourse with the Jews and thus, perchance, become instrumental in leading them aright.”
(`Abdu'l-Bahá, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 411)

(See The Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 411-415 and also pp.
402-410 for these elements to memorize (e.g., that Jesus spread the
Torah, lack of harm to a nation’s people in praising even an atheist
from their country, let alone a Manifestation of God, etc.))


b. Teach Christians about Islám

(See also section 8.B. and 8.C.)

"The friends should uphold Islám as a revealed Religion in teaching the Cause but need not make, at present, any particular attempt to teach it solely and directly to non-Baha'is at this time.

"The mission of the American Baha'is is, no doubt, to eventually establish the truth of Islam in the West.”
(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 497)


(The Kitáb-i-Íqán indicates Muhammad was the Return of Christ – see p. 26 for example, though it is not in the same glory as Bahá’u’lláh (especially as Bahá’u’lláh as the Return of Christ in the Glory of the Father will become more complete as more of the world comes to recognize Him–see a letter on behalf of the Guardian, quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 493)




8. FURTHER ACTIVITIES WITH THE PROOFS

A. Collect proofs


“These proofs ought to be collected and memorized. As soon as someone will ask you–What are your proofs?–you may cry out at the top of your voice and say: “Here they are!”” (Utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, 43)

B. Study the Bible, Qur’án, and other Holy Books (and proofs for the
religionists following these Holy Books) (in meetings also) (in order to
teach it to others also)

See also 7.B.2 above on establishing the validity of the prior Manifestations of God (e.g., Muhammad to the Christians, Jesus to the Jews, etc.).

“It is very good to memorize the logical points and the proofs of the Holy Books. Those proofs and evidences which establish the fact that Bahá’u’lláh is the fulfillment of the Promises of the Holy Books.” (Utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, 43)

“The first thing to do is to acquire a thirst for Spirituality, then Live the Life! Live the Life! Live the Life! The way to acquire this thirst is to meditate upon the future life. Study the Holy Words, read your Bible, read the Holy Books, especially study the Holy Utterances of Bahá’u’lláh; Prayer and Meditation, take much time for these two. Then will you know this Great Thirst, and then only can you begin to Live the Life!” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Star of the West, vol. 19, no. 3, p. 69 quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 44-45)

The attainment of the most great guidance is dependent upon knowledge and wisdom, and on being informed as to the mysteries of the Holy Words. Wherefore must the loved ones of God, be they young or old, be they men or women, each one according to his capabilities, strive to acquire the various branches of knowledge, and to increase his understanding of the mysteries of the Holy Books, and his skill in marshaling the divine proofs and evidences.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, 12:9, p. 88)

“If for example a spiritually learned Muslim is conducting a debate with a Christian and he knows nothing of the glorious melodies of the Gospel, he will, no matter how much he imparts of the Qur’án and its truths, be unable to convince the Christian, and his words will fall on deaf ears. Should, however, the Christian observe that the Muslim is better versed in the fundamentals of Christianity than the Christian priests themselves, and understands the purport of the Scriptures even better than they, he will gladly accept the Muslim’s arguments, and he would indeed have no other recourse.”
“When the Chief of the Exile [The Resh Galuta, a prince or ruler of the exiles in Babylon, to whom Jews, wherever they were, paid tribute] came into the presence of that Luminary of divine wisdom, of salvation and certitude, the Imám Ridá [the 8th Imám]–had the Imám, that mine of knowledge, failed in the course of their interview to base his arguments on authority appropriate and familiar to the Exilarch [“one of a line of Jewish civil and judicial rulers of the exiles in Babylon from about the third to the tenth centuries A.D.” (Webster's Third New International Dictionary, p. 796)], the latter would never have acknowledged the greatness of His Holiness.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, The Secret of Divine Civilization, p. 36)


“I have been informed that the purpose of your class meeting is to study the significances and mysteries of the Holy Scriptures and understand the meaning of the divine Testaments. It is a cause of great happiness to me that you are turning unto the Kingdom of God, that you desire to approach the presence of God and to become informed of the realities and precepts of God. It is my hope that you may put forth your most earnest endeavor to accomplish this end, that you may investigate and study the Holy Scriptures word by word so that you may attain knowledge of the mysteries hidden therein. Be not satisfied with words, but seek to understand the spiritual meanings hidden in the heart of the words.” (Utterances of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Promulgation of Universal Peace, pp. 458-459, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 40-41)

“Shoghi Effendi wishes me also to express his deepfelt appreciation of your intention to study the Qur’án. The knowledge of this revealed holy Book is, indeed, indispensable to every Bahá’í who wishes to adequately understand the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. And in view of that the Guardian has been invariably encouraging the friends to make as thorough a study of this Book as possible, particularly in their summer schools.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 88-89)

“The Sacred Books are full of allusions to this new dispensation. In the Book of Íqán, Bahá’u’lláh gives the key-note and explains some of the outstanding passages hoping that the friends will continue to study the Sacred Books by themselves and unfold the mysteries found therein.
“The people, failing to comprehend the meaning of the symbols and the truth of the Sacred Verses, thought them to be myths and unrealizable dreams. It is the duty of the friends who have been endowed by Bahá’u’lláh with the power of discernment to study these Sacred Books, ponder upon their passages and teach the disheartened people of the earth the treasures of knowledge they enclose.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 65-66)

Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your efforts first in deepening your own knowledge of the teachings and then strive to attract other people. You should form study classes and read the important books that have been published, especially the Íqán which contains the basic tenets of the Faith. The one who ponders over that book and grasps its full significance will obtain a clear insight into the old scriptures and appreciate the true mission of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 69-70)

"The mission of the American Baha'is is, no doubt, to eventually establish the truth of Islam in the West.”
(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 497)

“Child education is a matter of the utmost importance. The infant, while yet a suckling, must receive Baha'i training, and the loving spirit of Christ and Baha'u'llah must be breathed into him, that he may be reared in accord with the verities of the Gospel and the Most Holy Book. (`Abdu'l-Baha, Education, p. 266)

“I, therefore, beseech Thee by Him and by Them Who are the Day-Springs of Thy Divinity, and the Manifestations of Thy Lordship, and the Treasuries of Thy Revelation, and the Depositories of Thine inspiration, to enable us to serve and obey Him, and to empower us to become the helpers of His Cause and the dispersers of His adversaries.” (Baha'u'llah, Prayers and Meditations, p. 86)

"The truth is that Western historians have for many centuries distorted the facts to suit their religious and ancestral prejudices. The Baha'is should try to study history anew, and to base all their investigations first and foremost on the written Scriptures of Islam and Christianity."
(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 497)

"The truth is that Western historians have for many centuries distorted the facts to suit their religious and ancestral prejudices. The Baha'is should try to study history anew, and to base all their investigations first and foremost on the written Scriptures of Islam and Christianity."
(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 497)

"Although," Abdu'l-Baha, in the Tablets of the Divine Plan, has written, "in most of the states and cities of the United States, praise be to God, His fragrances are diffused, and souls unnumbered are turning their faces and advancing toward the Kingdom of God, yet in some of the states the Standard of Unity is not yet upraised as it should be, nor are the mysteries of the Holy Books, such as the Bible, the Gospel, and the Qur'an, unraveled. Through the concerted efforts of all the friends the Standard of Unity must needs be unfurled in those states, and the Divine teachings promoted, so that these states may also receive their portion of the heavenly bestowals and a share of the Most Great Guidance."
(Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, pp. 57-58)


C. Hold courses on Islám (especially regarding the early history of the Faith,
but also to show its progression over Christianity, its bringing about the
(good) fruits of modern Western civilization and indirectly bringing
about the Reformation, etc.


“As regards the courses, he would advise you to continue laying emphasis on the history and teachings of Islám, and in particular on the Islamic origins of the Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, pp. 13-14)

With regard to the school’s program for the next summer; the Guardian would certainly advise, and even urge the friends to make a thorough study of the Qur’án, as the knowledge of this Sacred Scripture is absolutely indispensable for every believer who wishes to adequately understand, and intelligently read the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh. Although there are very few persons among our Western Bahá’ís who are capable of handling such a course in a scholarly way yet, the mere lack of such competent teachers should encourage and stimulate the believers to get better acquainted with the Sacred Scriptures of Islám. In this way, there will gradually appear some distinguished Bahá’ís who will be so well versed in the teachings of Islám as to be able to guide the believers in their study of that religion.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 90-91)

“As regards the study courses for the next year’s session; the Guardian wishes you to cover the same subjects, namely the Administrative Order and Islám, but feels that these should be studied through more detailed and concentrated examination of all their aspects. An effort should be done to raise the standard of studies, so as to provide the Bahá’í student with a thorough knowledge of the Cause that would enable him to expound it befittingly to the educated public.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 9)

“...through the organization of courses on the teachings and history of Islám ...these schools, open to Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike, have set so noble an example as to inspire other Bahá’í communities...to undertake the initial measures designed to enable them to build along the same lines institutions that bid fair to evolve into the Bahá’í universities of the future.” (Shoghi Effendi, quoted in Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 12)

As to the fruits of Western Civilization brought about by Islám, see Secret of Divine Civilization (as well as another book perhaps which is apparently referred to in The Secret of Divine Civilization, The History of the Intellectual Development of Europe by John William Draper) and a letter on behalf of Shoghi Effendi quoted in Lights of Guidance, pp. 496-497)

The above quotations refer to the advance of Islám over Christianity. Another quotation elaborates on a specific element to include in study in summer schools (or presumably any Centers of Bahá’í Learning) regarding Islám (though it cannot be considered as verifiably authentic since it is from a pilgrim’s note) (namely that whereas Christianity did not only not prohibit polygamy (which Islám indirectly did) but actually its priests added their own corrupt invention of celibacy over marriage (as the Qur’án itself confirms):

“Jesus abrogated two laws of Moses, Sabbath and prohibited divorce. The Master explains - Tablet to Miss Rosenberg - that monogamy was not taught by Jesus. The Gospel prohibits divorce but says nothing about monogamy. The Fathers of the Church made it a law, but Christ never did. There was polygamy in His days, and it was not prohibited among the early Christians. Then they not only established monogamy, but said that celibacy should be the rule. When Jesus had not even enjoined monogamy, and had tolerated polygamy, the Church Fathers went so far as to establish celibacy.

“The Qur'an prohibited polygamy, but the commentators misinterpreted the text. The text says polygamy is conditioned upon Justice, in another passage Muhammad says Justice in these circumstances (i.e. polygamy) is impossible. So we see that Islam is a step in advance of Christianity. The mission of the Baha'is in proving Islam is a further step in Revelation than Christianity, must cite this evidence.

“These things should be taught in the summer schools in relation to comparative religion and Islam.

“We have to consider the Aqdas in the light of the authorized interpreter, the Master. Baha'u'llah in a passage says marriage with two wives is conditioned upon Justice. The Master says in a Tablet to Miss Rosenberg, that Justice is impossible, (to be just to two wives). It is just like the Qur'an. Both the Qur'an and the Baha'i teachings are a step further than the Gospels. The missionaries, the enemies of the Cause will quote the Aqdas and claim we do not advocate monogamy. Then we must quote the Master's Tablet. Baha'u'llah says in the Aqdas, "Refer ye to what is not in the Aqdas to the Most Great Branch;" and in the "Tablet of the Covenant, (Kitab-i-Ahd) He quotes this passage of His and says the Master is that Branch. The Church Fathers had no right to prohibit what Christ had not prohibited, and yet they went a step further and established celibacy.”

(See also Some Answered Questions in resolving the issue of polygamy as it pertains to Muhammad’s Holy Life (Chapter 7).)

As to the Reformation, see a letter on behalf of the Guardian, quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 494.


9. USE EXAMPLE AND METHODS OF ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ IN TALKS

“The Bahá’í youth must be taught how to teach the Cause of God. Their knowledge of the fundamentals of the Faith must be deepened and the standard of their education in science and literature enhanced. They must become thoroughly familiar with the language used and the example set by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His public addresses throughout the West. They must also be acquainted with those essential prerequisites of teaching as recorded in the Holy Books and Tablets.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 50-51)

“He would advise you among other books to study the Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as His method of approaching the mind of the public cannot be surpassed.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 101)

See God Passes By, p. 282 and Bahá’í Administration, pp. 69-70 for Shoghi Effendi’s description of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s method of teaching.



III. History and History in Study Classes and Training Institutes




SUMMARY OF QUOTES ON HISTORY OF FAITH

1) NEED TO READ AND STUDY HISTORY OF FAITH TO BE INSPIRED AND
BECOME ABLE TO SERVE (WHILE PURSUING SCHOOL STUDIES) (p.
)

2) SPECIFIC ASPECTS OF HISTORY VITAL TO STUDY FOR GUIDANCE,
INSPIRATION, AND TO USHER IN BLISSFUL ERA (p. )
a. lives of the Founders of Cause
b. salient events Heroic and Formative Ages Faith
c. genesis, significance, workings, present status, achievements
embryonic World Order & Covenant
d. To know tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at evil hands of Covenant
violators (and pray for Him)
e. To know and teach the high deeds, sacrifices, detachment, ecstasy,
and unity with each other, of the lovers of God/martyrs in Persia (at
Feast)
f. Study the history (God Passes By) to see how persistently the Faith
has been attacked by those in high positions


3) READ AND MASTER “DAWN-BREAKERS” & “GOD PASSES BY” (p. )


4) READ AND MASTER “DAWN-BREAKERS” & “GOD PASSES BY” TO
TEACH AND BE SUSTAINED IN LIFE AND ACTIVITIES (p. )

5) WHAT DAWN-BREAKERS SHOWS (p. )
a) how Faith was ushered into world
b) how early adherents heroically faced martyrdom and suffering to
establish Cause throughout world
c) spirit of true sacrifice (which we need in order to teach and
travel-teach with more dedication)

6) STUDY CLASSES TO INCLUDE HISTORY AND DAWN-BREAKERS (p. )

7) FURTHER PROJECTS USING DAWN-BREAKERS AND HISTORY (p. )

8) READ BOOK OF COVENANT, WILL AND TESTAMENT, AND
DISPENSATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH FOR APPRECIATION OF STATIONS
AND COVENANTS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH AND ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ (p. )


DETAILED SUMMARIES ON HISTORY OF FAITH

1) NEED TO READ AND STUDY HISTORY OF FAITH TO BE INSPIRED AND
BECOME ABLE TO SERVE (WHILE PURSUING SCHOOL STUDIES)

A. Thorough study of history prerequisite successful career service to
Faith

B. Younger Bahá’í generation to read history in order to teach
C. Advice to young believers to deepen knowledge of history with careful
and thorough study (and then practice what it inspires in community)
D. A more profound study of its history among rock bottom requirements


2) SPECIFIC ASPECTS OF HISTORY VITAL TO STUDY FOR GUIDANCE,
INSPIRATION, AND TO USHER IN BLISSFUL ERA

A. To teachings & lives Founders of Cause believers to strictly seek
guidance inspiration–Only way to weather tests

B. Most vital aspect spiritual Crusade (in South) duty of enlightening
friends re: salient events Heroic and Formative Ages Faith
C. Rock bottom requirements to open and hasten blissful era include:

1) More profound study of history
2) Deeper understanding genesis, significance, workings, present
status, achievements embryonic World Order & Covenant
D. To know tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at evil hands of Covenant violators
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá recounts some of these in Tablets in Bahá’í World Faith;
the Guardian discusses some of these in God Passes By) (and pray for
Him)
E. To know and teach the high deeds, sacrifices, detachment, ecstasy, and
unity with each other, of the lovers of God/martyrs in Persia (at Feast)
F. Study the history (God Passes By) to see how persistently the Faith has
been attacked by those in high positions

3) READ AND MASTER “DAWN-BREAKERS” & “GOD PASSES BY”

A. Young Bahá’ís to MASTER “Dawn-breakers”, “God Passes By”
B. Dawn-Breakers to be mastered by every Bahá’í & read over and over
again
C. Should master and be able to explain contents of Dawn-Breakers
D. Should read and read over again Dawn-Breakers by every soul desiring
to serve Movement or consider self an active member


4) READ AND MASTER “DAWN-BREAKERS” & “GOD PASSES BY” TO
TEACH AND BE SUSTAINED IN LIFE AND ACTIVITIES

A. Youth to master and digest facts in Dawn-Breakers for:
1) teaching
2) sustenance to their spiritual life and activities in service of Cause
B. Publication of Dawn-Breakers promised to the arouse friends to:
1) greater self-sacrifice
2) more determined way of teaching
C. Young people to be encouraged to read–rather study–Dawn-Breakers.

D. Life of individuals in Dawn-Breakers to affect every one who reads and
impel them to follow in their footsteps of sacrifice in path of the
Faith.
E. Dawn-Breakers to be studied by especially youth to inspire & carry
them
F. Knowing life of heroes in “The Dawn-Breakers” to create urge to follow
footsteps and achieve same

G. The Dawn-Breakers to inspire greater activity and energy in serving
Cause and teaching
H. Dawn-Breakers to be used as companion and for strength against
distress and attacks
I. Study classes to memorize incidents in Dawn-Breakers to use them in
teaching (in demonstrating the Faith’s motivating spirit)
J. The life of heroes of Faith (in Dawn-Breakers) to teach us of true
sacrifice in order to teach and travel-teach with more dedication
K. The Dawn-Breakers mentioned in connection with inspiring vision,
capacity, and understanding

L. Master God Passes By and bring its subjects and facts to the attention of
other Bahá’ís for their developing a proper perspective


5) WHAT DAWN-BREAKERS SHOWS

A. “The Dawn-Breakers” to show:
1) how Faith was ushered into world
2) how early adherents heroically faced martyrdom and suffering to
establish Cause throughout world
B. The life of heroes of Faith (in Dawn-Breakers) to teach us of true
sacrifice in order to teach and travel-teach with more dedication


6) STUDY CLASSES TO INCLUDE HISTORY (INCLUDING DAWN-BREAKERS
AND GOD PASSES BY)


A. Study classes to explain and elucidate history
B. Institutes to cover Bahá’í history

C. Study classes to memorize incidents in Dawn-Breakers to use them in
teaching (in demonstrating the Faith’s motivating spirit)
D. Dawn-Breakers to be used in teaching, as textbook, arts inspiration,
and preliminary to pilgrimage
E. Use “God Passes By” in study classes


7) FURTHER PROJECTS USING DAWN-BREAKERS AND HISTORY


A. Drama can be of great use
B. Use Dawn-Breakers to arrange stories for children

C. Use of history in a film
D. Use of motifs in Dawn-Breakers in dance

8) READ BOOK OF COVENANT, WILL AND TESTAMENT, AND
DISPENSATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH FOR APPRECIATION OF STATIONS
AND COVENANTS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH AND ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ


A. Covenants of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
B. “Book of My Covenant”, Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh

C. Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
D. Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh (to understand Guardianship and inspire vision
and efforts)

DETAILED QUOTES AND SUMMARIES ON HISTORY OF FAITH

1) NEED TO READ AND STUDY HISTORY OF FAITH TO BE INSPIRED AND
BECOME ABLE TO SERVE (WHILE PURSUING SCHOOL STUDIES)

A. Thorough study of history prerequisite successful career service to
Faith


“I strongly urge you to devote, while you are pursuing your studies, as much time as you possibly can to a thorough study of the history and teachings of our Beloved Cause. This is the prerequisite of a future successful career of service to the Bahá’í Faith in which I hope and pray you will distinguish yourself in the days to come.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom: The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 51)

B. Younger Bahá’í generation to read history in order to teach

“If the younger Bahá’í generation, in whom Shoghi Effendi has great hopes, take the pains of studying the Cause deeply and thoroughly, read its history, find its underlying principles and become both well informed and energetic, they surely can achieve a great deal. It is upon their shoulders that the Master has laid the tremendous work of teaching. They are the ones to raise the call of the Kingdom and arouse the people from slumber. If they fail the Cause is doomed to stagnation.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Dawn of a New Day, p. 3)

C. Advice to young believers to deepen knowledge of history with careful
and thorough study (and then practice what it inspires in community)

“His brotherly advice to you, and to all loyal and ardent young believers like you, is that you should deepen your knowledge of the history and of the tenets of the Faith, not merely by means of careful and thorough study, but also through active, whole-hearted and continue participation in all the activities, whether administrative or otherwise, of your community.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Youth, p. 424)

“Much stress should be laid on the thorough study of the history and teachings of the Cause.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 17)

“Special stress, however, should be put on the history of the Movement...” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 7)

“I wish to urge the necessity of concentrating, at your next summer session, on the systematic study of the early history and principles of the Faith...” (Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 14)


D. A more profound study of its history among rock bottom requirements

“a more profound study of its history...remain the rock bottom requirements which alone can guarantee the opening, and hasten the advent, of that blissful era which every British Bahá’í heart so eagerly anticipates, and the glories of which can, at present, be but dimly discerned.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 64)

2) SPECIFIC ASPECTS OF HISTORY VITAL TO STUDY FOR GUIDANCE,
INSPIRATION, AND TO USHER IN BLISSFUL ERA

A. To teachings & lives Founders of Cause believers to strictly seek
guidance inspiration–Only way to weather tests


“It is to the teachings themselves, and to the lives of the Founders of the Cause that the believers should look for their guidance and inspiration, and only by keeping strictly to such true attitude can they hope to establish their loyalty to Bahá’u’lláh upon an enduring and unassailable basis.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, 79)

B. Most vital aspect spiritual Crusade (in South) duty of enlightening
friends re: salient events Heroic and Formative Ages Faith

“The paramount duty of deepening the spiritual life of these newly fledged, these precious and highly esteemed co-workers, and of enlightening their minds regarding...the salient events of the Heroic and Formative Ages of the Faith, and its relationship with the Dispensations that have preceded it...must continue to constitute the most vital aspect of the great spiritual Crusade launched by the champions of the Faith from among the peoples of their sister republics in the South.” (Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith, 76)

C. Rock bottom requirements to open and hasten blissful era include:

1) More profound study of history
2) Deeper understanding genesis, significance, workings, present
status, achievements embryonic World Order and Covenant
underlying it

“A firmer grasp of the essential verities of the Faith; a more profound study of its history and a deeper understanding of the genesis, the significance, the workings, and the present status and achievements of its embryonic World Order and of the Covenant to which it owes its birth and vitality–these remain the rock bottom requirements which alone can guarantee the opening, and hasten the advent, of that blissful era which every British Bahá’í heart so eagerly anticipates, and the glories of which can, at present, be but dimly discerned.” (Shoghi Effendi, Unfolding Destiny, p. 385)

D. To know tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at evil hands of Covenant violators
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá recounts some of these in Tablets in Bahá’í World Faith;
the Guardian discusses some of these in God Passes By) (and pray for
Him)

“Verily, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá inhaleth the fragrance of the love of God from every meeting place where the Word of God is uttered, and proofs and arguments set forth, that shed their rays across the world; and where they recount the tribulations of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the evil hands of those who have violated the Covenant of God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast, p. 8)


"O thou who art assuredly believing in God!
“Verily, I read thy brilliant letter and thanked God for that He hath created a maid-servant for Baha', who prays for Abdul-Baha and beg the confirmation and assistance of God in his behalf, because I am earnestly fond of the prayer of the maid-servants of God in my behalf and of their asking the blessing of God for this servant!
“I begged of God to ordain all good unto thee for thy praying for Abdul-Baha." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, 113)


E. To know and teach the high deeds, sacrifices, detachment, ecstasy, and
unity with each other, of the lovers of God/martyrs in Persia (at Feast)

As to the Nineteen Day festivity, it is of the utmost importance that the friends should gather at a meeting where, in complete attunement and love, they should engage in the remembrance of God and His praise, and converse as to the glad tidings of God, and proofs of the Advent of Baha'u'llah, and should recount the high deeds and sacrifices of the lovers of God in Persia, and tell of the martyrs' detachment from the world, and their ecstasy, and of how the believers there stood by one another and gave up everything they had.
The Nineteen Day festivity is, therefore, of very great importance.”
(From a Tablet to an individual believer - translated from the
Persian)
(`Abdu'l-Baha, The Nineteen Day Feast, p. 428)


F. Study the history (God Passes By) to see how persistently the Faith has
been attacked by those in high positions

“He is pleased to hear that the friends are intensively studying 'God Passes By', as it is most essential for them to gain not only a fuller knowledge of their Faith's history but also to see how persistently it has been attacked by enemies who once held high positions in its ranks. Indeed he hopes a perusal of this book will help not only friends and observers of the Cause to see Ahmad Sohrab in his proper colours, but also believers who are not familiar with the defections of those who were far more highly placed and who turned against the Faith in the days of Bahá'u'lláh and the Master.” (16 October 1944, to participants at Louhelen Summer School, August 1944, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

3) READ AND MASTER “DAWN-BREAKERS” & “GOD PASSES BY”

A. Young Bahá’ís to MASTER “Dawn-breakers”, “God Passes By”

“...as to what subjects within the Faith you should concentrate on he feels that the young Bahá’ís should gain a mastery of such books as the “Dawn-breakers”, “God Passes By”, the “Íqán”, “Some Answered Questions” and the more important Tablets. All aspects of the Faith should be deeply studied.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom: The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 105)


B. Dawn-Breakers to be mastered by every Bahá’í & read over and over
again


“Books such as...“The Dawn-Breakers” should be mastered by every Bahá’í.
They should read these books over and over again.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 216)

C. Should master and be able to explain contents of Dawn-Breakers

“Shoghi Effendi hopes that you will exert all your effort to deepen your knowledge of the literature of the Movement, until you become fully acquainted with its spirit and tenets. Unless you do obtain such a firm hold you will never be able to teach others and render real service to the promulgation of the Faith. Of special importance is the Book of the Íqán which explains the attitude of the Cause towards the prophets of God and their mission in the history of society. Besides this there is Some Answered Questions of the Master and The Dawn-Breakers of Nabíl. Every Bahá’í should master these books and be able to explain their contents to others. Besides their importance, they are interesting and most absorbing.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Compilation of Compilations, vol. 1, p. 215)


D. Should read and read over again Dawn-Breakers by every soul desiring
to serve Movement or consider self an active member

“Books such as the Íqán, Some Answered Questions, the Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, Nabíl’s Narrative and Dr. Esslemont’s book should be read and read over again by every soul who desires to serve the Movement or considers himself an active member of the group.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom., p. 79)




4) READ AND MASTER “DAWN-BREAKERS” & “GOD PASSES BY” TO
TEACH AND BE SUSTAINED IN LIFE AND ACTIVITIES

A. Youth to master and digest facts in Dawn-Breakers for:
1) teaching
2) sustenance to their spiritual life and activities in service of Cause
“I would strongly urge you to utilize, to the utmost possible extent, the wealth of authentic material gathered in Nabíl’s stirring narrative and to encourage the youth to master and digest the facts recorded therein as a basis for their future work in the teaching field, and as a sustenance to their spiritual life and activities in the service of the Cause.” (Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, 207)


B. Publication of Dawn-Breakers promised to the arouse friends to:
1) greater self-sacrifice
2) more determined way of teaching
“Shoghi Effendi undertook the translation of the Dawn-Breakers only after being convinced that its publication will arouse the friends to greater self-sacrifice and a more determined way of teaching. Otherwise he would not have devoted so much time to it.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, 216)


C. Young people to be encouraged to read–rather study–Dawn-Breakers.


“Reading about the life and activities of those heroic souls is bound to influence our mode of living and of the importance we attach to our services in the Cause. Shoghi Effendi therefore hopes that the friends will read, nay rather study that book, and encourage their young people to do that as well.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith., 216)


D. Life of individuals in Dawn-Breakers to affect every one who reads and
impel them to follow in their footsteps of sacrifice in path of the Faith.

“Shoghi Effendi found great pleasure and spiritual upliftment while working on the translation of Nabíl’s Narrative. The life of those who figure in it is so stirring that every one who reads those accounts is bound to be affected and impelled to follow their footsteps of sacrifice in the path of the Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, 218)

"The reading of the Dawn-Breakers is sure to arouse the friends to renewed zeal and added perseverance in spreading the Cause of Baha'u'llah. Consider to what extent the Bab and those early leaders of the Faith suffered. It was not through a blind religious zeal but because they desired to bring about for the future generations that promised era that the Faith of the Bab promised to start - an era of peace, good-will and full realization of the spiritual significance of the life of man upon the earth. They suffered that we may be happy. They died that we may live in perfect bliss. What a sacred debt, therefore, we owe to them! How much we ought to labour to repay them for their sacrifices, and how willing and earnest we should be in consecrating our life in the path they trod!"
(On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 569)

E. Dawn-Breakers to be studied by the friends, especially the youth, to
inspire and carry them through troubled days

“The Guardian believes, therefore, that it should be studied by the friends, especially the youth who need some inspiration to carry them through these troubled days.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, 218)


F. Knowing life of heroes in “The Dawn-Breakers” to create urge to follow
footsteps and achieve same

“Knowing the life of those heroes will create in us the urge to follow their footsteps and achieve the same.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith., 216)


G. The Dawn-Breakers to inspire greater activity and energy in serving
Cause and teaching

“The Guardian sincerely hopes and prays that the study of the Dawn-Breakers will inspire the friends to greater activity and more exerted energy in serving the Cause and spreading its message in that town.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, p. 24)

H. Dawn-Breakers to be used as companion and for strength against
distress and attacks

“Feel impelled appeal entire body American believers to henceforth regard Nabíl’s soul-stirring Narrative as essential adjunct to reconstructed Teaching program, as unchallengeable textbook in their Summer Schools, as source of inspiration in all literary and artistic pursuits, as an invaluable companion in times of leisure, as indispensable preliminary to future pilgrimage to Bahá’u’lláh’s native land, and as unfailing instrument to allay distress and resist attacks of critical, disillusioned humanity.” (Shoghi Effendi, cablegram dated June 21, 1932, Messages to America 1932-1946, p. 1)

I. Study classes to memorize incidents in Dawn-Breakers to use them in
teaching (in demonstrating the Faith’s motivating spirit)

“Shoghi Effendi would advise the friends in Rostock to hold regular study classes and read that book with great care, committing its salient facts to memory, so that while teaching the Cause, they may be able to show the motivating spirit of the Faith by referring to some incidents of those early days.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, p. 24)

J. The life of heroes of Faith (in Dawn-Breakers) to teach us of true
sacrifice (in order to teach and travel-teach with more dedication)

“The life of those heroes of the Faith should teach us what true sacrifice is, and to what extent we should forego our personal and worldly interests while endeavoring to carry the divine message to the four corners of the earth.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, p. 24)

K. The Dawn-Breakers mentioned in connection with inspiring vision,
capacity, and understanding

I certainly advise you to concentrate next year on the “Dawn-Breakers”, as well as on the needs, the principles and the purpose of Bahá’í Administration. The Cause in your land is still in its formative period. It needs men and women of vision, of capacity and understanding. May your newly-established school render inestimable services in this as well as in other fields of activity. I will pray for your high endeavours from the depths of my heart. Rest assured and persevere.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 54)


L. Master God Passes By and bring its subjects and facts to the attention of
other Bahá’ís for their developing a proper perspective

“He feels that you will benefit greatly by the history of the Cause as outlined in 'God Passes By', and he hopes you will master the subjects and facts it contains and help to bring them to the attention of the Bahá'ís, as there is a need in the Cause to see our Holy Faith in its proper perspective, and he feels you can be of great help in this connection.”
(August 1944, to an individual believer, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


5) WHAT DAWN-BREAKERS SHOWS

A. “The Dawn-Breakers” to show:
1) how Faith was ushered into world
2) how early adherents heroically faced martyrdom and suffering to
establish Cause throughout world

“The...book will show you how the Faith was ushered into the world and how its early adherents heroically faced martyrdom and suffering in their desire to establish the Cause throughout the world.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Importance of Deepening Our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, 216)

"If you study the history of Nabil you will see how the Faith has been fed by the constant sacrifices of the friends. Under hardships, persecutions and constant worries has the Message of Baha'u'llah been established throughout the world."
(From a letter dated 30 November 1932 written on behalf of Shoghi
Effendi to an individual believer)
(Shoghi Effendi: Living the Life, Page: 5)


B. The life of heroes of Faith (in Dawn-Breakers) to teach us of true
sacrifice in order to teach and travel-teach with more dedication

“The life of those heroes of the Faith should teach us what true sacrifice is, and to what extent we should forego our personal and worldly interests while endeavoring to carry the divine message to the four corners of the earth.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, p. 24)

6) STUDY CLASSES TO INCLUDE HISTORY (INCLUDING DAWN-BREAKERS
AND GOD PASSES BY)


A. Study classes to explain and elucidate history

“Amongst other things is the holding of meetings for teaching so that blessed souls and the old ones from amongst the believers may gather together the youths of the love of God in schools of instruction and
1) “teach them all the divine proofs and irrefragable arguments,
2) “explain and elucidate the history of the Cause,
3) ”and interpret also the prophecies and proofs which are recorded
and are extant in the divine Books and Epistles regarding the
manifestation of the Promised One,
so that the young ones may go in perfect knowledge in all these degrees.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Tablets of the Divine Plan, no. 8:15, p. 54 or Bahá’í Meetings, p. 10)

B. Institutes to cover Bahá’í history

The subjects taught usually consist of Bahá’í History, Laws and Teachings, and the Administrative Order.”(From “Suggestions on Operation of Teaching Institutes”, enclosure in a letter dated December 24, 1964 from the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of Guatemala: Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 19)


C. Study classes to memorize incidents in Dawn-Breakers to use them in
teaching (in demonstrating the Faith’s motivating spirit)

“Shoghi Effendi would advise the friends in Rostock to hold regular study classes and read that book with great care, committing its salient facts to memory, so that while teaching the Cause, they may be able to show the motivating spirit of the Faith by referring to some incidents of those early days.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 24)


D. Dawn-Breakers to be used in teaching, as textbook, arts inspiration,
and preliminary to pilgrimage

“Feel impelled appeal entire body American believers to henceforth regard Nabíl’s soul-stirring Narrative as essential adjunct to reconstructed Teaching program, as unchallengeable textbook in their Summer Schools, as source of inspiration in all literary and artistic pursuits, as an invaluable companion in times of leisure, as indispensable preliminary to future pilgrimage to Bahá’u’lláh’s native land, and as unfailing instrument to allay distress and resist attacks of critical, disillusioned humanity.” (Shoghi Effendi, cablegram dated June 21, 1932, Messages to America 1932-1946, p. 1)

Note:
“Certainly, the Guardian cannot have intended, when he commended Nabil’s Narrative to the friends as a source of inspiration, that there were not other sources by which their imagination could be stimulated.” (On behalf of the Universal House of Justice, email dated 10 February 1998 to an individual believer)


E. Use “God Passes By” in study classes

He is pleased to hear that the friends are intensively studying 'God Passes By', as it is most essential for them to gain not only a fuller knowledge of their Faith's history but also to see how persistently it has been attacked by enemies who once held high positions in its ranks. Indeed he hopes a perusal of this book will help not only friends and observers of the Cause to see Ahmad Sohrab in his proper colours, but also believers who are not familiar with the defections of those who were far more highly placed and who turned against the Faith in the days of Bahá'u'lláh and the Master.” (16 October 1944, to participants at Louhelen Summer School, August 1944, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


7) FURTHER PROJECTS USING DAWN-BREAKERS AND HISTORY

A. Drama can be of great use
“The drama is of the utmost importance. It has been a great educational power in the past; it will be so again.” (Attributed to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in London, p. 93)

B. Use Dawn-Breakers to arrange stories for children

“With ‘The Dawn-Breakers’ in your possession you could also arrange interesting stories about the early days of the movement which the children would like to hear.” (From a letter dated October 19, 1932, written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, quoted in Bahá’í Education, p. 61)

C. Use of history in a film
“As you are no doubt aware, it is not permissible to portray the Manifestations of God in dramatic works and it can be understood that great skill will be needed to produce an effective film about the history of the Faith in which neither the Báb nor Bahá’u’lláh could actually appear. Because of the overwhelming significance of the Bahá’í message and the Bahá’í Revelation, any such film produced under the aegis of the Bahá’í community would have to be of the very highest quality in all respects.” (On behalf of the Universal House of Justice, quoted in Lights of Guidance, vol. iii., no. 345)

D. Use of motifs in Dawn-Breakers in dance

“Mark Tobey reports [of his second pilgrimage, in 1932] that the Guardian said he has translated The Dawn-Breakers so that dancers would have Bahá’í motifs for the dance, as he believed that this art would be first to be developed along Bahá’í lines.” (Excerpt from a pilgrim note by Mark Tobey (painter) contained in the “In Memoriam” submitted for The Bahá’í World, XVII, 1976-79) (note: pilgrim’s notes cannot be considered as necessarily authentic, though they may be of interest)


8) READ BOOK OF COVENANT, WILL AND TESTAMENT, AND
DISPENSATION OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH FOR APPRECIATION OF STATIONS
AND COVENANTS OF BAHÁ’U’LLÁH AND ‘ABDU’L-BAHÁ


A. Covenants of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

“As he has cabled the N.S.A. a few days ago, he feels that the difficulties which have arisen...are mainly due to the fact that the believers need to be deepened in their knowledge and appreciation of the Covenants of both Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. This is the stronghold of the faith of every Bahá’í, and that which enables him to withstand every test and the attacks of the enemies outside the Faith, and the far more dangerous, insidious, lukewarm people inside the Faith who have no real attachment to the Covenant, and consequently uphold the intellectual aspect of the teachings while at the same time undermining the spiritual foundation upon which the whole Cause of God rests.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 110-111)

“The paramount duty of deepening the spiritual life of these newly fledged, these precious and highly esteemed co-workers, and of enlightening their minds regarding the essential verities enshrined in their Faith, its fundamental institutions, its history and genesis–the twin Covenants of Bahá’u’lláh and of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the present Administrative Order, the future World Order, the Laws of the Most Holy Book, the inseparable institutions of the Guardianship and of the Universal House of Justice, the salient events of the Heroic and Formative Ages of the Faith, and its relationship with the Dispensations that have preceded it, its attitude toward the social and political organizations by which it is surrounded–must continue to constitute the most vital aspect of the great spiritual Crusade launched by the champions of the Faith from among the peoples of their sister republics in the South.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 59-60)

“Above all the utmost endeavour should be exerted by your Assembly to familiarize the newly enrolled believers with the fundamental and spiritual verities of the Faith, and with the origins, the aims and purposes, as well as the processes of a divinely appointed Administrative Order, to acquaint them more fully with the history of the Faith, to instil in them a deeper understanding of the Covenants of both Bahá’u’lláh and of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to enrich their spiritual life, to rouse them to a greater effort and a closer participation in both the teaching of the Faith and the administration of its activities, and to inspire them to make the necessary sacrifices for the furtherance of its vital interests.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 62-63)

“A firmer grasp of the essential verities of the Faith; a more profound study of its history and a deeper understanding of its genesis, the significance, the workings, and the present status and achievements of its embryonic World Order and of the Covenant to which it owes its birth and vitality–these remain the rock bottom requirements which alone can guarantee the opening, and hasten the advent, of that blissful era which every British Bahá’í heart so eagerly anticipates, and the glories of which can, at present, be but dimly discerned.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 64)

“It is better to have one Bahá’í who understands the Teachings and is wholeheartedly convinced of their truth, than a number of Bahá’ís who are not well aware of the Cause, and deep-rooted in the Covenant.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 116-117)

“The deepening and enrichment of the spiritual life of the individual believer, his increasing comprehension of the essential verities underlying his Faith, his training in its administrative processes, his understanding of the fundamentals of the Covenants established by its Author and the authorized Interpreter of its teachings should be made the supreme objectives of the national representatives responsible for the edification, the progress and consolidation of these communities.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 60-61)

“. . .it is one of the important duties of the Bahá'í institutions . . , to educate Bahá'ís in the Covenant, and to encourage them to study carefully the writings of the beloved Guardian which provide lasting guidance for the establishment of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh.”
      (From a letter dated 24 December 1984 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html ))



B. “Book of My Covenant”, Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá,
Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh


“He feels, indeed, that the time has come for the German believers to acquire a thorough knowledge as well as a full understanding of such important Tablets as Bahá’u’lláh’s “Book of My Covenant” and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Will and Testament, both of which constitute the very bedrock upon which the entire administrative system of the Faith has been raised and established. As to the “Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh” it also constitutes an invaluable supplement to these afore-mentioned Tablets.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 10 January 1935, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 89 )

“He has noted, in particular, with genuine satisfaction the recommendations issued by the National Youth Committee to the members of our Bahá’í youth to make a deeper study of the Master’s Will and to ponder more carefully on its manifold and far-reaching implications. He hopes that the Regional Youth Conferences...have devoted all the time necessary for the study and discussion of this all-important subject, and have given it the full emphasis it deserves. He will pray that the results obtained may be such as to give all the attendants a clear and wider vision of the tasks, responsibilities and obligations they will be called upon to discharge during this year, and a renewed stimulus to contribute their full share to the success and complete fulfilment of the Seven-Year Plan.”
“The Guardian would advise that in their studies of the Will and Testament the young believers should use the “Dispensation”, which will undoubtedly help them considerably to grasp the full implications of that sacred and historic Document which he has described as the “Charter of the New World Order”. (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 93-94)

“A profound study of the Faith which they have espoused, its history, its spiritual as well as administrative principles; a thorough understanding of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh and of the Will of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá...these constitute, I feel convinced, the urgent need of the members of this rapidly expanding community.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 58)


C. Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

“Shoghi Effendi is especially delighted to know that the younger group are studying the Will and Testament as this document is indispensable for a complete understanding of the spirit, of the mission and of the future state of the Bahá’í Cause. It would be well to have a competent friend explain to them some of the passages.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 68)

“Some of the younger believers, from letters and reports received here, seem to lack a firm grounding on such matters as the Will and Testament and the deeper spiritual teachings of the Faith. Whenever the grasp of these fundamentals is weak, the friends are almost sure to pay undue attention to secondary procedures, to quibble over details, to lose themselves in personalities, and to founder in a sea of unnecessary inharmony. This has nothing to do with their devotion, their loyalty, their zeal, their eagerness to serve. It is merely a question of not having received, perhaps through lack of sufficient teachers to carry on the all-important work of deepening the friends in their own faith, a strong enough education in the Covenant before the duties and responsibilities of the Administrative Order were thrust upon them.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 119)

“He feels that in your contact with the believers and in teaching new souls, you should help them obtain a full knowledge and understanding of the Covenant and the Will and Testament. This will strengthen them to meet every test, and to understand the nature of the spiritual disease which afflicts those who turn against the Institutions of the Faith. These are, indeed, times of testing and of trial, for the whole world and for the believers, too.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 103)

“As he has cabled the N.S.A. a few days ago, he feels that the difficulties which have arisen in Germany, and which called forth the letter you rightly felt was likely to cause more harm than good, are mainly due to the fact that the believers need to be deepened in their knowledge and appreciation of the Covenants of both Baha'u'llah and Abdu'l-Baha. This is the stronghold of the Faith of every Baha'i, and that which enables him to withstand every test and the attacks of the enemies outside the Faith, and the far more dangerous, insidious, lukewarm people inside the Faith who have no real attachment to the Covenant, and consequently uphold the intellectual aspect of the teachings while at the same time undermining the spiritual foundation upon which the whole Cause of God rests.
He feels you and your dear family should do all you can to teach the believers the Will and Testament to strengthen their understanding of its important provisions; for all the authority of the administrative bodies, as well as of the Guardian himself, is mainly derived from this tremendous document.”
(Shoghi Effendi: Light of Divine Guidance Vol.2, Page: 84)


D. Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh (to understand Guardianship and inspire vision
and efforts of others)

“Shoghi Effendi was also pleased to learn of the response which his last general communication [“The Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh] addressed to the friends in the West has awakened in your community. It is his hope that the believers will, through their careful and continued study of this important communication, acquire a new vision of the Cause, and will be stimulated to redouble their efforts for the expansion and consolidation of their work for the Faith. (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 88)


“Concerning the institution of the Guardianship and its true position in the Administrative Order of the Cause, the Guardian would urge you to make a careful study of the subject in his last general letter addressed to the West and published under the title of 'The Dispensation of Bahá'u'lláh'. In the last part of this important treatise you will find an adequate and authoritative analysis of the origins, nature and function of that institution, and of its unique significance in the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh. You should also recommend your fellow-believers to better acquaint themselves with the contents of that same letter, so that their vision of the Cause and their understanding of its present-day administration may acquire in strength and in depth.”
      (2 May 1934, to two believers, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html ) )
IV. RECITING/MEDITATING ON VERSES (INCLUDING PRAYERS)


1) PURPOSE AND METHODS OF RECITING/MEDITATING (p. )

A. Joy in Reciting
B. Mysteries to be Unravelled (through reading, memorization, being
meditated upon, action)

C. Observe Silence
D. Recite melodiously
E. Read Tablets (and Scriptures) on and for Teaching (and memorize)

2) WHAT TO READ/RECITE (IN GENERAL) (p. )

A. Recite (and memorize and act upon) The Hidden Words
B. What is Covered in The Hidden Words

C. Read Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

D. Read Tablets of Tarázát, Kalimát, Tajallíyyát, Ishráqát, Bishárát,
others?
E. What is covered in Tablets

F. Read The Kitáb-i-Aqdas

G. Significance of The Kitáb-i-Aqdas (and importance of it being read)

H. Read Prayers and Meditations (and memorize)


3) WHEN, HOW, AND WHAT TO RECITE (ON ONE’S OWN) (p. )

A. Recite daily (esp. Hidden Words)
B. Recite melodiously


4) WHEN, HOW, AND WHAT TO RECITE (IN MEETINGS) (p. )

A. Chant and Sing at Meetings
B. Reciting verses in Meeting
C. Read Tablets and Communes (Prayers) at Meetings (including those of
‘Abdu’l-Bahá)
D. Recite melodiously in Meeting


1) PURPOSE AND METHODS OF RECITING/MEDITATING

A. Joy in Reciting
B. Mysteries to be Unravelled (through reading, memorization, being
meditated upon, action)

C. Observe Silence in Contemplation
D. Recite melodiously
E. Read Tablets (and Scriptures) on and for Teaching (and memorize)

A. Joy in Reciting


“Peruse My verses with joy and radiance. Verily they will attract you unto God and will enable you to detach yourselves from all else save Him. Thus have ye been admonished in God’s Holy Writ and in this resplendent Tablet.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 4).

“The words of Bahá’u’lláh and the Master...have a creative power and are sure to awaken in the reader the undying fire of the love of God.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 80)

“Gather ye together with the utmost joy and fellowship and recite the verses revealed by the merciful Lord. By so doing the doors to true knowledge will be opened to your inner beings, and ye will then feel your souls endowed with steadfastness and your hearts filled with radiant joy.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pearls of Wisdom: The Importance of Deepening our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 4)


B. Mysteries to be Unravelled (through reading, memorization, being
meditated upon, action)


“Immerse yourselves in the ocean of My words, that ye may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie hid in its depths.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 85, paragraph 182)

“With fixed and steady gaze, born of the unerring eye of God, scan for a while the horizon of divine knowledge, and contemplate those words of perfection which the Eternal hath revealed, that haply the mysteries of divine wisdom, hidden ere now beneath the veil of glory and treasured within the tabernacle of His grace, may be made manifest unto you.” (Bahá’u’lláh, The Kitáb-i-Íqán, pp. 16-17)

“Whoso hath searched the depths of the oceans that lie hid within these exalted words and fathomed their import, can be said to have discovered a glimmer of the unspeakable glory with which this mighty, this sublime, and most holy Revelation hath been endowed.” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, VI)

“O My servants! Through the might of God and His power, and out of the treasury of His knowledge and wisdom, I have brought forth and revealed unto you the pearls that lay concealed in the depths of His everlasting ocean. I have summoned the Maids of Heaven to emerge from behind the veil of concealment, and have clothed them with these words of Mine–words of consummate power and wisdom. I have, moreover, with the hand of divine power, unsealed the choice wine of My Revelation, and have wafted its holy, its hidden, and musk-laden fragrance upon all created things. Who else but yourselves is to be blamed if ye choose to remain unendowed with so great an outpouring of God’s transcendent and all-encompassing grace, with so bright a revelation of His resplendent mercy?...(Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, CLIII)

“Incline your ears to the words of this unlettered One, wherewith He summoneth you unto God, the Ever-Abiding. Better is this for you than all the treasures of the earth, could ye but comprehend it.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 129)

“Meditate upon that which hath streamed forth from the heaven of the Will of thy Lord, He Who is the Source of all grace, that thou mayest grasp the intended meaning which is enshrined in the sacred depths of the Holy Writings.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 143)

“Inspire then my soul, O my God, with Thy wondrous remembrance, that I may glorify Thy name. Number me not with them who read Thy words and fail to find Thy hidden gift which, as decreed by Thee, is contained therein, and which quickeneth the souls of Thy creatures and the hearts of Thy servants.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Prayers and Meditations, p. 83)

“O thou true friend! Read, in the school of God, the lessons of the spirit, and learn from love’s Teacher the innermost truths. Seek out the secrets of Heaven, and tell of the overflowing grace and favour of God.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 110)

“There are certain pillars which have been established as the unshakeable supports of the Faith of God. The mightiest of these is learning and the use of the mind, the expansion of consciousness, and insight into the realities of the universe and the hidden mysteries of Almighty God.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 126)

“...The Báb hath said: “Should a tiny ant desire in this day to be possessed of such power as to be able to unravel the abstrusest and most bewildering passages of the Qur’án, its wish will no doubt be fulfilled, inasmuch as the mystery of eternal might vibrates within the innermost being of all created things.” If so helpless a creature can be endowed wish so subtle a capacity, how much more efficacious must be the power released through the liberal effusions of grace of Bahá’u’lláh!

...Wherefore, O ye illumined youth, strive by night and by day to unravel the mysteries of the mind and spirit, and to grasp the secrets of the Day of God. Inform yourselves of the evidences that the Most Great Name hath dawned.”
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 25-26)

“If you read the utterances of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá with selflessness and care and concentrate upon them, you will discover truths unknown to you before and will obtain an insight into the problems that have baffled the great thinkers of the world. God in His essence can not be comprehended nor assume bodily form. We can only approach Him through the knowledge of His Manifestations. I pray that you may drink deep of the fountain-head of Their Sacred Teachings. I assure you of my prayers for your recovery and success.” (Shoghi Effendi, 30 January 1925, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 50)

“Bahá’u’lláh says there is a sign [from God] in every phenomenon: the sign of the intellect is contemplation and the sign of contemplation is silence, because it is impossible for a man to do two things at one time–he cannot both speak and meditate....You cannot apply the name “man” to any being void of this faculty of meditation; without it he would be a mere animal, lower than the beasts. Through the faculty of meditation man attains to eternal life; through it he receives the breath of the Holy Spirit–the bestowal of the Spirit is given in reflection and meditation....Meditation is the key for opening the doors of mysteries. In that state man abstracts himself: in that state man withdraws himself from all outside objects; in that subjective mood he is immersed in the ocean of spiritual life and can unfold the secrets of things-in-themselves. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Paris Talks, pp. 174-175)

“Knowledge is love. Study, listen to exhortations, think, try to understand the wisdom and greatness of God. The soil must be fertilized before the seed can be sown.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Star of the West, vol. 20, no. 10, p. 314, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 45)

He does not ask us to follow Him blindly; as He says in one of His Tablets, God had endowed man with a mind to operate as a torchlight and guide him to truth. Read His words, consider His teachings, and measure their value in the light of contemporary problems and the truth will surely be revealed to you.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 26 February 1933, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 80)

“The students must show forth the results of their study in their deportment and deeds; otherwise they have wasted their lives.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Star of the West, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 44)

C. Observe Silence in Contemplation

“Bahá’u’lláh says there is a sign [from God] in every phenomenon: the sign of the intellect is contemplation and the sign of contemplation is silence, because it is impossible for a man to do two things at one time–he cannot both speak and meditate....You cannot apply the name “man” to any being void of this faculty of meditation; without it he would be a mere animal, lower than the beasts. Through the faculty of meditation man attains to eternal life; through it he receives the breath of the Holy Spirit–the bestowal of the Spirit is given in reflection and meditation....Meditation is the key for opening the doors of mysteries. In that state man abstracts himself: in that state man withdraws himself from all outside objects; in that subjective mood he is immersed in the ocean of spiritual life and can unfold the secrets of things-in-themselves. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Paris Talks, pp. 174-175)

“The essence of true safety is to observe silence, to look at the end of things and to renounce the world.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 156)

D. Recite melodiously

(see sections 3.b and 4.a below)

E. Read Tablets (and Scriptures) on and for Teaching (and memorize)

“They [the Bahá’í youth] must be acquainted with those essential prerequisites of teaching as recorded in the Holy Books and Tablets.” (Shoghi Effendi, translated from a letter dated 9 June 1925 to the Spiritual Assembly of the East, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 50-51)

“The sanctified souls should ponder and meditate in their hearts regarding the methods of teaching. From the texts of the wondrous heavenly Scriptures they should memorize phrases and passages bearing on various instances, so that in the course of their speech they may recite divine verses whenever the occasion demandeth it, inasmuch as these holy verses are the most potent elixir, the greatest and mightiest talisman. So potent is their influence that the hearer will have no cause for vacillation. I swear by My life! This Revelation is endowed with such a power that it will act as the lodestone for all nations and kindreds of the earth. Should one pause to meditate attentively he would recognize that no place is there, nor can there be, for anyone to flee to.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 200)

“The friends should read the Writings and be able to quote from the Tablets when discussing subjects pertaining to the Faith.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 9 May 1932, quoted in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 76)

“The Master used to attach much importance to the learning by heart of the Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh and the Báb. During His days, it was a usual work of the children of the household to learn Tablets by heart...” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 19 October 1932, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 78)

Surely the ideal way of teaching is to prove our points by constant reference to the actual words of Bahá’u’lláh and the Master. This will save the Cause from being misinterpreted by individuals. It is what these divine Lights say that is truth and therefore They should be the authorities of our statements. This, however, does not mean that our freedom of expression is limited. We can always finds new ways of approach to that truth or explain how they influence our life and condition. The more deep our studies the more we can understanding the significance of the teachings. In the Cause we cannot divorce the letter from the spirit of the words. As Bahá’u’lláh says we should take the outward significance and super-impose upon it the inner. Either without the other is wrong and defective.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 74)

2) WHAT TO READ/RECITE (IN GENERAL)

A. Recite (and memorize and act upon) The Hidden Words
B. What is Covered in The Hidden Words

C. Read Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

D. Read Tablets of Tarázát, Kalimát, Tajallíyyát, Ishráqát, Bishárát,
others?
E. What is covered in Tablets

F. Read The Kitáb-i-Aqdas

G. Significance of The Kitáb-i-Aqdas (and importance of it being read)

H. Read Prayers and Meditations (and memorize)


A. Recite (and memorize and act upon) The Hidden Words

“He is the Glory of Glories! This is that which hath descended from the realm of glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old. We have taken the inner essence thereof and clothed it in the garment of brevity, as a token of race unto the righteous, that they may stand faithful unto the Covenant of God, may fulfill in their lives His trust, and in the realm of spirit, obtain the gem of divine virtue.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Hidden Words from the Arabic preamble)

”It is incumbent upon every man of insight and understanding to strive to translate that which hath been written into reality and action...” (Gleanings cxvii, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 6)

“It behoveth us one and all to recite day and night both the Persian and Arabic “Hidden Words”, to pray fervently and supplicate tearfully that we may be enabled to conduct ourselves in accordance with these divine counsels. These holy Words have not been revealed to be heard but to be practiced.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 26-27).

“We should memorize “The Hidden Words”, follow the exhortations of the Incomparable Lord, and conduct ourselves in a manner which befitteth our servitude at the threshold of the One True God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 27)

“Be assured in thyself that if you dost conduct thyself in accordance with “The Hidden Words” revealed in Persian and in Arabic, thou shalt become a torch of the fire of the love of God, an embodiment of humility, of lowliness, of evanescence and of selflessness.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 27)

““The Hidden Words” is a treasury of divine mysteries. When thou ponderest its contents, the doors of the mysteries will open.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 28)

Read ye “The Hidden Words”, ponder the inner meanings thereof, act in accord therewith. Read, with close attention, the Tablets of Tarázát (Ornaments), Kalimát (Words of Paradise), Tajallíyyát (Effulgences), Ishráqát (Splendours), and Bishárát (Glad Tidings), and rise up as ye are bidden in the heavenly teachings. Thus may each one of you be even as a candle casting its light, the centre of attraction wherever people come together; and from you, as from a bed of flowers, may sweet scents be shed.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 28-29)

“In this present age the world of humanity is afflicted with severe sicknesses and grave disorders which threaten death. Therefore, Bahá’u’lláh has appeared. He is the real Physician, bringing divine remedy and healing to the world of man. He has brought teachings for all ailments--the Hidden Words, Ishraqat, Tarazat, Tajalliyat, Words of Paradise, Glad Tidings, etc. These Holy Words and teachings are the remedy for the body politic, the divine prescription and real cure for the disorders which afflict the world. Therefore, we must accept and partake of this healing remedy in order that complete recovery may be assured. Every soul who lives according to the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh is free from the ailments and indispositions which prevail throughout the world of humanity; otherwise, selfish disorders, intellectual maladies, spiritual sicknesses, imperfections and vices will surround him, and he will not receive the life-giving bounties of God.” (Promulgation of Universal Peace)

“Live thou in accord with the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. Do not only read them. There is a vast difference between the soul who merely reads the words of Bahá’u’lláh and the one who tries to live them. Read thou the “Hidden Words”. Ponder over their meanings and embody the behests into thy life.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Star of the West, vol. 7, no. 18, p. 178, in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 43)

“O thou who gazest upon the Kingdom of God! Thy letter was received and we note that thou art engaged in teaching the children of the believers, that these tender little ones have been learning The Hidden Words and the prayers and what it meaneth to be a Bahá’í.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 143)



B. What is Covered in The Hidden Words

“He is the Glory of Glories! This is that which hath descended from the realm of glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old. We have taken the inner essence thereof and clothed it in the garment of brevity, as a token of race unto the righteous, that they may stand faithful unto the Covenant of God, may fulfill in their lives His trust, and in the realm of spirit, obtain the gem of divine virtue.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Hidden Words from the Arabic preamble)

C. Read Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

“The Guardian feels particularly appreciative of the emphasis your [National Youth] Committee has laid on the study of the “Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh”, which book, he believers, should be the continued guide and companion of every believer, specially those who are actively engaged in teaching the Cause. It is his fervent hope that this book will kindle in the heart of all the friends a new light, whereby they will receive a fuller guidance and a greater measure of inspiration in their labours for the Cause.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 28 January 1936, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 91-92)

“...A true and adequate knowledge of the Cause is, indeed, indispensable to everyone who wishes to successfully teach the Message. The book of ‘Gleanings’ gives the friends a splendid opportunity to acquire this necessary knowledge and understanding. It gives them, in addition, that inspiration and spiritual fervor which the reading of the Holy Words can alone impart.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, quoted in The Individual and Teaching, p. 22)

D. Read Tablets of Tarázát, Kalimát, Tajallíyyát, Ishráqát, Bishárát,
others?

“Read ye “The Hidden Words”, ponder the inner meanings thereof, act in accord therewith. Read, with close attention, the Tablets of Tarázát (Ornaments), Kalimát (Words of Paradise), Tajallíyyát (Effulgences), Ishráqát (Splendours), and Bishárát (Glad Tidings), and rise up as ye are bidden in the heavenly teachings. Thus may each one of you be even as a candle casting its light, the centre of attraction wherever people come together; and from you, as from a bed of flowers, may sweet scents be shed.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 61)

Direct thine attention to the holy Tablets; read thou the Ishráqát, Tajallíyyát, the Words of Paradise, the Glad Tidings, the Tarázát, the Most Holy Book. Then wilt thou see that today these heavenly Teachings are the remedy for a sick and suffering world, and a healing balm for the sores on the body of mankind. They are the spirit of life, the ark of salvation, the magnet to draw down eternal glory, the dynamic power to motivate the inner self of man.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 61)

We hear that the Tablets of Ishráqát (Splendours), Tarázát (Ornaments), Bishárát (Glad Tidings), Tajallíyyát (Effulgences), and Kalimát (Words of Paradise) have been translated and published in those regions. In these Tablets will ye have a model of how to be and how to live.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 79)

“The Tablets of Israghat, Tarazat, Bescharat, Tajaliat and Kalamat,1 according to what is heard have been translated and printed in those regions. Hasten to become imbued with the qualifications and attributes set forth therein. (TAB, 25-26)
1. Ishrakat, i.e., Effulgences. Tarazat, i.e. Spiritual Ornaments. Bescharat,
i.e., Glad-tidings. Tajalliat, i.e., Spiritual Splendors. Kalamat,
i.e., Word of Paradise.

“Thou didst ask as to acquiring knowledge: read thou the Books and Tablets of God, and the articles written to demonstrate the truth of this Faith. Included among them are the “Íqán”, which hath been translated into English, the works of Mírzá Abu’l-Fadl, and those of some others among the believers. In the days to come a great number of holy Tablets and other sacred writings will be translated, and thou shouldst read these as well. Likewise, ask thou of God that the magnet of His love should draw unto thee the knowledge of Him. Once a soul becometh holy in all things, purified, sanctified, the gates of the knowledge of God will open wide before his eyes.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 32-33)

“In this present age the world of humanity is afflicted with severe sicknesses and grave disorders which threaten death. Therefore, Bahá’u’lláh has appeared. He is the real Physician, bringing divine remedy and healing to the world of man. He has brought teachings for all ailments--the Hidden Words, Ishraqat, Tarazat, Tajalliyat, Words of Paradise, Glad Tidings, etc. These Holy Words and teachings are the remedy for the body politic, the divine prescription and real cure for the disorders which afflict the world. Therefore, we must accept and partake of this healing remedy in order that complete recovery may be assured. Every soul who lives according to the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh is free from the ailments and indispositions which prevail throughout the world of humanity; otherwise, selfish disorders, intellectual maladies, spiritual sicknesses, imperfections and vices will surround him, and he will not receive the life-giving bounties of God.” (Promulgation of Universal Peace)


E. What is covered in Tablets

“We hear that the Tablets of Ishráqát (Splendours), Tarázát (Ornaments), Bishárát (Glad Tidings), Tajallíyyát (Effulgences), and Kalimát (Words of Paradise) have been translated and published in those regions. In these Tablets will ye have a model of how to be and how to live.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 79)

“Direct thine attention to the holy Tablets; read thou the Ishráqát, Tajallíyyát, the Words of Paradise, the Glad Tidings, the Tarázát, the Most Holy Book. Then wilt thou see that today these heavenly Teachings are the remedy for a sick and suffering world, and a healing balm for the sores on the body of mankind. They are the spirit of life, the ark of salvation, the magnet to draw down eternal glory, the dynamic power to motivate the inner self of man.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 61)

“In this present age the world of humanity is afflicted with severe sicknesses and grave disorders which threaten death. Therefore, Bahá’u’lláh has appeared. He is the real Physician, bringing divine remedy and healing to the world of man. He has brought teachings for all ailments--the Hidden Words, Ishraqat, Tarazat, Tajalliyat, Words of Paradise, Glad Tidings, etc. These Holy Words and teachings are the remedy for the body politic, the divine prescription and real cure for the disorders which afflict the world. Therefore, we must accept and partake of this healing remedy in order that complete recovery may be assured. Every soul who lives according to the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh is free from the ailments and indispositions which prevail throughout the world of humanity; otherwise, selfish disorders, intellectual maladies, spiritual sicknesses, imperfections and vices will surround him, and he will not receive the life-giving bounties of God.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Promulgation of Universal Peace)

F. Read The Kitáb-i-Aqdas

Direct thine attention to the holy Tablets; read thou the Ishráqát, Tajallíyyát, the Words of Paradise, the Glad Tidings, the Tarázát, the Most Holy Book. Then wilt thou see that today these heavenly Teachings are the remedy for a sick and suffering world, and a healing balm for the sores on the body of mankind. They are the spirit of life, the ark of salvation, the magnet to draw down eternal glory, the dynamic power to motivate the inner self of man.” (Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 61)

The paramount duty of deepening the spiritual life of these newly fledged, these precious and highly esteemed co-workers, and of enlightening their minds regarding the essential verities enshrined in their Faith, its fundamental institutions, its history and genesis–the twin Covenants of Bahá’u’lláh and of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the present Administrative Order, the future World Order, the Laws of the Most Holy Book, the inseparable institutions of the Guardianship and of the Universal House of Justice, the salient events of the Heroic and Formative Ages of the Faith, and its relationship with the Dispensations that have preceded it, its attitude toward the social and political organizations by which it is surrounded–must continue to constitute the most vital aspect of the great spiritual Crusade launched by the champions of the Faith from among the peoples of their sister republics in the South.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 59-60)

G. Significance of The Kitáb-i-Aqdas (and importance of it being read)

”This Book”, He Himself testifies, “is a heaven which We have adorned with the stars of Our commandments and prohibitions.

Blessed the man”, He, moreover, has stated, “who will read it, and ponder the verses sent down in it by God, the Lord of Power, the Almighty. Say, O men! Take hold of it with the hand of resignation...By My life! It hath been sent down in a manner that amazeth the minds of men. Verily, it is My weightiest testimony unto all people, and the proof of the All-Merciful unto all who are in heaven and all who are on earth.”

And again: “Blessed the palate that savoureth its sweetness, and the perceiving eye that recognizeth that which is treasured therein, and the understanding heart that comprehendeth its allusions and mysteries. By God! Such is the majesty of what hath been revealed therein, and so tremendous the revelation of its veiled allusions that the loins of utterance shake when attempting their description.”

And finally: “In such a manner hath the Kitáb-i-Aqdas been revealed that it attracteth and embraceth all the divinely appointed Dispensations. Blessed those who peruse it! Blessed those who apprehend it! Blessed those who meditate upon it! Blessed those who ponder its meaning! So vast is its range that it hath encompassed all men ere their recognition of it. Erelong will its sovereign power, its pervasive influence and the greatness of its might be manifested on earth.” (Universal House of Justice, The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 16)


H. Read Prayers and Meditations (and memorize)

“There is no objection to the friends memorizing prayers; on the contrary it is excellent for them to do so.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 106)

“He is indeed pleased to know that the book of “Prayers and Meditations” by Bahá’u’lláh has been out in time to enable the friends to read it during the Fast, and he has every hope that the perusal of such a precious volume will help to deepen, more than any other publication, the spirit of devotion and faith in the friends, and thus charge them with all the spiritual power they require for the accomplishment of their tremendous duties towards the Cause.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 108-109)

“The first thing to do is to acquire a thirst for Spirituality, then Live the Life! Live the Life! Live the Life! The way to acquire this thirst is to meditate upon the future life. Study the Holy Words, read your Bible, read the Holy Books, especially study the Holy Utterances of Bahá’u’lláh; Prayer and Meditation, take much time for these two. Then will you know this Great Thirst, and then only can you begin to Live the Life! (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, 44-45)

“When a person becomes a Bahá’í, actually what takes place is that the seed of the spirit starts to grow in the human soul. This seed must be watered by the outpourings of the Holy Spirit. These gifts of the spirit are received through prayer, meditation, study of the Holy Utterances and service to the Cause of God.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 116)

“Success will crown the efforts of the friends on the home front, when they meditate on the teachings, pray fervently for divine confirmations for their work, study the teachings so they may carry their spirit to the seeker, and then act; and above all persevere in action. When these steps are followed, and the teaching work carried on sacrificially and with devoted enthusiasm, the Faith will spread rapidly.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 117-118)

“There is a desperate need for deepening the Bahá’ís themselves in their own faith. They do not study the teachings enough. They do not therefore either act as whole-heartedly as Bahá’ís as they should, or derive the spiritual strength from the Faith which studying, praying and meditating brings.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 118)


3) WHEN, HOW, AND WHAT TO RECITE (ON ONE’S OWN)

A. Recite daily (esp. Hidden Words)
B. Recite melodiously

A. Recite daily (esp. Hidden Words)

“Recite ye the verses of God every morn and eventide. Whoso faileth to recite them hath not been faithful to the Covenant of God and His Testament, and whoso turneth away from these holy verses in this Day is of those who throughout eternity have turned away from God. Fear ye God, O My servants, one and all. Fear ye God, O My servants one and all. Pride not yourselves on much reading of the verses or on a multitude of pious acts by night and day; for were a man to read a single verse with joy and radiance it would be better for him than to read with lassitude all the Holy Books of God, the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsisting. Read ye the sacred verses in such measure that ye be not overcome by languor and despondency. Lay not upon your souls that which will lighten and uplift them, so that they may soar on the wings of the Divine verses towards the Dawning-place of His manifest signs; this will draw you nearer to God, did ye but comprehend.” (Bahá’u’lláh, The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, pp. 73-74, paragraph 149)

“He is the Glory of Glories! This is that which hath descended from the realm of glory, uttered by the tongue of power and might, and revealed unto the Prophets of old. We have taken the inner essence thereof and clothed it in the garment of brevity, as a token of grace unto the righteous, that they may stand faithful unto the Covenant of God, may fulfill in their lives His trust, and in the realm of spirit, obtain the gem of divine virtue.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Hidden Words from the Arabic preamble)

“Peruse ye every day the verses revealed by God. Blessed is the man who reciteth them and reflecteth upon them. He truly is of them with whom it shall be well.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pearls of Wisdom: The Importance of Deepening our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 3)

“It behoveth us one and all to recite day and night both the Persian and Arabic “Hidden Words”, to pray fervently and supplicate tearfully that we may be enabled to conduct ourselves in accordance with these divine counsels. These holy Words have not been revealed to be heard but to be practiced.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 26-27).

B. Recite melodiously

“Intone, O My servant, the verses of God that have been received by thee, as intoned by them who have drawn nigh unto Him, that the sweetness of thy melody may kindle thine own soul, and attract the hearts of all men. Whoso reciteth, in the privacy of his chamber, the verses revealed by God, the scattering angels of the Almighty shall scatter abroad the fragrance of the words uttered by his mouth, and shall cause the heart of every righteous man to throb. Though he may, at first, remain unaware of its effect, yet the virtue of the grace vouchsafed unto him must needs sooner or later exercise its influence upon his soul. Thus have the mysteries of the Revelation of God been decreed by virtue of the Will of Him Who is the Source of power and wisdom.” (Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, CXXXVI)

Miscellaneous Exhortations: k. To recite the holy verses melodiously
(The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 160)

“They who recite the verses of the All-Merciful in the most melodious of tones will perceive in them that with which the sovereignty of earth and heaven can never be compared. From them they will inhale the divine fragrance of My worlds–worlds which today none can discern save those who have been endowed with vision through this sublime, this beauteous Revelation. Say: These verses draw hearts that are pure unto those spiritual worlds that can neither be expressed in words nor intimated by allusion. Blessed be those who hearken.” (The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, paragraph 116, p. 61)


4) WHEN, HOW, AND WHAT TO RECITE (IN MEETINGS)

A. Chant and Sing at meetings
B. Reciting verses in Meeting
C. Read Tablets and Communes (Prayers) at Meetings (including those of
‘Abdu’l-Bahá)

A. Chant and Sing at meetings

Hold meetings and read and chant the heavenly teachings, so that city may be illumined with the light of reality and that country become a veritable paradise by the strength of the Holy Spirit, for this cycle is the cycle of the Glorious Lord and the melody of oneness and solidarity of the world of mankind must reach the ears of the East and West.” (Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 631)

“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)

“You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The foundation of the spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maidservants of the Merciful must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of the Beauty of Abhá–May my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become informed of the Divine Evidences and Proofs.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)

Miscellaneous Exhortations: l. To teach one’s children to chant the holy
verses in the Mashriqu’l-Adhkár” (The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, p. 160)

“Teach your children the verses revealed from the heaven of majesty and power, so that, in most melodious tones, they may recite the Tablets of the All-Merciful in the alcoves within the Mashriqu’l-Adhkárs. Whoever hath been transported by the rapture born of adoration for My Name, the Most Compassionate, will recite the verses of God in such wise as to captivate the hearts of those yet wrapped in slumber. Well is it with him who hath quaffed the Mystic Wine of everlasting life from the utterance of his merciful Lord in My Name–a Name through which every lofty and majestic mountain hath been reduced to dust.” (The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, paragraph 150, p. 74)

"Regarding arrangements for the Bahai Sunday meeting for the purpose of worship, this is very suitable. But, in a meeting for worship, first, prayer should be chanted and supplication made until all gather; then communion should be made. After praying, sacred readings with melodious voices should be read by all together. As this is the commencement of holding meetings, this is sufficient." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, pp. 15-16)


B. Reciting verses in Meeting

"Regarding arrangements for the Bahai Sunday meeting for the purpose of worship, this is very suitable. But, in a meeting for worship, first, prayer should be chanted and supplication made until all gather; then communion should be made. After praying, sacred readings with melodious voices should be read by all together. As this is the commencement of holding meetings, this is sufficient." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, pp. 15-16)

Gather ye together with the utmost joy and fellowship and recite the verses revealed by the merciful Lord. By so doing the doors to true knowledge will be opened to your inner beings, and ye will then feel your souls endowed with steadfastness and your hearts filled with radiant joy.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pearls of Wisdom: The Importance of Deepening our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, p. 4)

"The individual women should, today, follow a course of action which will be the cause of eternal glory to all womankind, so that all women will be illumined. And that lieth in gathering to learn how to teach, in holding meetings to recite the verses, to offer supplications to the kingdom of the Lord of evident signs, and to institute education for the girls."
(From a Tablet -- translated from Persian)


C. Read Tablets and Communes (Prayers) at Meetings (including those of
‘Abdu’l-Bahá)

"Regarding arrangements for the Bahai Sunday meeting for the purpose of worship, this is very suitable. But, in a meeting for worship, first, prayer should be chanted and supplication made until all gather; then communion should be made. After praying, sacred readings with melodious voices should be read by all together. As this is the commencement of holding meetings, this is sufficient." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, pp. 15-16)

“You have written concerning the spiritual meetings. The foundation of the spiritual meetings must be the teaching and delivering of the Cause of God. In these meetings the believers and maidservants of the Merciful must proclaim the proofs and arguments and explain the signs of the appearance of the Beauty of Abhá–May my life be a sacrifice to the beloved ones! Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable. But the fundamental principle of the establishment of spiritual meetings is for the sake of teaching and delivering the Truth so that those souls who are present may become informed of the Divine Evidences and Proofs.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)

“They must...either commune or supplicate and pray to God, either read Tablets or give out advices and exhortations.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , p. 11)

“The believers of God must assemble and associate with each other in the utmost love, joy and fragrance. They must conduct themselves (in the meetings) with the greatest dignity and consideration, chant divine verses, peruse instructive articles, read the Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, encourage and inspire each other with love for the whole human race, invoke God with perfect joy and fragrance, read the verses of glorification and praises of the Self-Subsistent Lord and deliver eloquent speeches.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Meetings/The Nineteen Day Feast , pp. 11-12)

"The individual women should, today, follow a course of action which will be the cause of eternal glory to all womankind, so that all women will be illumined. And that lieth in gathering to learn how to teach, in holding meetings to recite the verses, to offer supplications to the kingdom of the Lord of evident signs, and to institute education for the girls."
(From a Tablet -- translated from Persian)





V. MORAL & SOCIAL LAWS, TEACHING, ADMINISTRATION, WORLD


0) INTRODUCTORY MATERIALS

1) MORAL/SOCIAL (p. )

2) TEACHING METHODS & GOALS (p. )

3) COMMUNITY (p. )

4) ADMINISTRATION/NEWS (p. )

5) RELATIONSHIP OF BAHÁ’Í FAITH WITH FORCES IN THE WORLD, PAST
AND PRESENT

V. MORAL & SOCIAL LAWS, TEACHING, ADMINISTRATION, WORLD


0) INTRODUCTORY MATERIALS


1) MORAL/SOCIAL (p. )

(See also section IV. above on reciting/meditating and I.5. above on
specific content)

A. Character and “The Advent of Divine Justice”
1. Chaste, pure, and holy life for youth especially (per The Advent of
Divine
Justice)

2. Freedom from Racial Prejudice (for all including youth)


2) TEACHING METHODS & GOALS (p. )

(See also section IV.1.E. above on Tablets on Teaching)

A. Importance of learning about teaching
B. Read the Writings about Teaching
C. Study Example and Methods of ‘Abdu’l-bahá in Talks
D. (Regarding study and teaching,) read Tablets of the Divine Plan, The Advent
of Divine Justice
, and Citadel of Faith (especially “The Challenging
Requirements of the Present Hour,” “American Bahá’ís in time of World
Peril.”


3) COMMUNITY (p. )

A. Participation in Community



4) ADMINISTRATION/NEWS (p. )

A. News and Goals
B. Administration (and correlate with secular knowledge–see next section)

1. Administration
2. Administration, Scholarship, and Correlating Teachings to Modern
Problems

3. “Bahá’í Administration” important to read (for National Assembly
members) (and “Messages to America” is a part of primary Bahá’í
literature also)


5) RELATIONSHIP OF BAHÁ’Í FAITH WITH FORCES IN THE WORLD, PAST
AND PRESENT

A. Acquire knowledge of forces of decline and growth leading mankind toward
glorious destiny. (For decline and growth within the Faith alone, see History
section, particularly God Passes By)

B. World Order of Bahá’u’lláh (including “Goal of a New World Order”) (see
History section 8A and 8D for references to “Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh”)
1. Study the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh

2. Present concepts from or akin to “The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh” to
the public without descending into politics
C. Promised Day is Come (which refers to spiritual forces leading to decline of
prior religion’s institutions and coming establishment of the Bahá’í Faith) is
part of primary Bahá’í literature.
V. MORAL & SOCIAL LAWS, TEACHING, ADMINISTRATION, WORLD

0) INTRODUCTORY MATERIALS

Books such as the Íqán, Some Answered Questions, the Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, Nabíl’s Narrative and Dr. Esslemont’s book should be read and read over again by every soul who desires to serve the Movement or considers himself an active member of the group.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom., p. 79)

From a letter to a believer in India: “Even though the book [Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era] was written by a Christian [Dr. Esslemont] and was meant to be for people of that Faith to read, yet it is a very fine presentation of the teachings as a whole and might prove interesting to other people as well. Shoghi Effendi surely hopes that before long the Cause may produce scholars that would write books which would be far deeper and more universal in scope, but for the present this is the best we possess to give a general idea as to the history and teachings of the Faith to new seekers. After reading this they get the necessary introduction to delve more deeply into the fundamental tenets such as are explained in the Íqán. Shoghi Effendi hopes that these books will greatly stimulate the teaching work in India and become the cause of guidance to many sincere souls.” (Messages of Shoghi Effendi to the Indian Subcontinent, October 19, 1932, p. 88)

(Gleanings and perhaps even Epistle to the Son of the Wolf may be good as overviews, from the Sacred Texts themselves.)


1) MORAL/SOCIAL
(See also section IV. above on reciting/meditating)

A. Character and “The Advent of Divine Justice”
1. Chaste, pure, and holy life for youth especially (per The Advent of
Divine
Justice)

2. Freedom from Racial Prejudice (for all including youth)


A. Character and “The Advent of Divine Justice”

“Being a Bahá’í you are certainly aware of the fact that Bahá’u’lláh considered education as one of the most fundamental factors of a true civilization. This education, however, in order to be adequate and fruitful, should be comprehensive in nature and should take into consideration not only the physical and the intellectual side of man but also his spiritual and ethical aspects. This should be the program of the Bahá’í youth all over the world.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 70)

The responsibility of young believers is very great, as they must not only fit themselves to inherit the work of the older Bahá’ís and carry on the affairs of the Cause in general, but the world which lies ahead of them–as promised by Bahá’u’lláh–will be a world chastened by its sufferings, ready to listen to His Divine Message at last; and consequently a very high character will be expected of the exponents of such a religion. To deepen their knowledge, to perfect themselves in the Bahá’í standards of virtue and upright conduct, should be the paramount duty of every Bahá’í.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 98-99)

The course on character building...the Guardian feels, is particularly important and should be given due emphasis and studied carefully and thoroughly specially by the young believers in attendance at the school. Those standards of Bahá’í conduct, which he himself has set forth in his last general epistle, ‘The Advent of Divine Justice’, and which it should be the paramount duty of every loyal and conscientious believer to endeavor to uphold and promote, deserve serious study and meditation, and should constitute the main central theme of this year’s program....”
“The principles and methods laid down by the Guardian in his ‘Advent of Divine Justice’ on this vital subject of Bahá’í ethics, should indeed prove of invaluable inspiration and guidance to all the students and friends attending the Summer-School classes, and thus prepare them to better appreciate the privileges, and more adequately discharge the responsibilities, of their citizenship in the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.” (From a letter written on behalf of the Guardian to an individual believer, May 20, 1939: Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 10)


1. Chaste, pure, and holy life for youth especially (per The Advent of
Divine
Justice)


The second [prerequisite of success for security of all teaching plans, Temple projects, and financial schemes: a chaste, pure, and holy life, unsullied and unclouded by the indecencies, the vices, the false standards, which an inherently deficient moral code tolerates, perpetuates, and fosters] is mainly and directly concerned with the Bahá’í youth, who can contribute so decisively to the virility, the purity, and the driving force of the life of the Bahá’í community, and upon whom must depend the future orientation of its destiny, and the complete unfoldment of the potentialities with which God has endowed it.” (Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 18)

“The Bahá’í youth should study the teachings on chastity and, with these in mind, should avoid any behavior which would arouse passions which would tempt them to violate them...If Bahá’í youth combine such personal purity with an attitude of uncensorious forbearance towards others they will find that those who may have criticized or even mocked them will come, in time, to respect them. They will, moreover, be laying a firm foundation for future married happiness.” (Messages from the Universal House of Justice, p. 253)

2. Freedom from Racial Prejudice (for all including youth)

“White and negro, high and low, young and old, whether newly converted to the Faith or not, all who stand identified with it must participate in, and lend their assistance, each according to his or her capacity, experience, and opportunities, to the common task of fulfilling the instructions, realizing the hopes, and following the example, of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá [regarding freedom from racial prejudice.” (Shoghi Effendi, The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 28)


2) TEACHING METHODS & GOALS
(See also section IV.1.E. above on Tablets on Teaching)

A. Importance of learning about teaching

"The individual women should, today, follow a course of action which will be the cause of eternal glory to all womankind, so that all women will be illumined. And that lieth in gathering to learn how to teach, in holding meetings to recite the verses, to offer supplications to the kingdom of the Lord of evident signs, and to institute education for the girls."
(From a Tablet -- translated from Persian)

“Praised be God, the women believers have organized meetings where they will learn how to teach the Faith...”(Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, pp. 130-131, no. 94.1-94.4)

"For the last twenty years I have repeatedly emphasized the matter of spreading the Cause of God. In every city there must be organised assemblies of teaching-classes to teach the young how to teach the Cause and prepare them for this most important service.

"Every Bahá'í must acquire the lessons of teaching. This will yield results. No other service is as important as this. This service of the promotion of the Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh is the most confirmed service. Every time, one service holds the most supreme importance.

"There is one season to harrow the ground, another season to scatter the seeds, still another season to irrigate the fields and still another to harvest the crop. We must attend to these various kinds of activities in their proper seasons in order to become successful. Now is the time of seed-sowing, but it seems to me some of the believers are thinking about crop-getting. This will give them no results. Whosoever is thinking of any other thing, is wasting his time.

"The promotion of the principles of Bahá'u'lláh is the most dominant issue before the believers of God."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “China Tablet”????)


B. Read the Writings about Teaching


“Spiritual preparation could include...study of the Writings about teaching...”
(An Evolutionary Approach to Teaching Institutes, prepared by National Teaching Committee, pp. 6-7)


C. Study Example and Methods of ‘Abdu’l-bahá in Talks

“The Bahá’í youth must be taught how to teach the Cause of God. Their knowledge of the fundamentals of the Faith must be deepened and the standard of their education in science and literature enhanced. They must become thoroughly familiar with the language used and the example set by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His public addresses throughout the West. They must also be acquainted with those essential prerequisites of teaching as recorded in the Holy Books and Tablets.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 50-51)

“He would advise you among other books to study the Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, as His method of approaching the mind of the public cannot be surpassed.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 101)

See God Passes By, p. 282 and Bahá’í Administration, pp. 69-70 for Shoghi Effendi’s description of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s method of teaching.


D. (Regarding study and teaching,) read Tablets of the Divine Plan, The Advent
of Divine Justice
, and Citadel of Faith (especially “The Challenging
Requirements of the Present Hour,” “American Bahá’ís in time of World
Peril.”

“In the arena of teaching, your indispensable terms of reference and the unerring resource to which you have ready access are the Master’s Tablets of the Divine Plan. They invest your community with extraordinary powers shared by your sister community in Canada. It is in reacquainting the American friends with the special mission, both at home and abroad, assigned to them in these seminal and timeless documents, and in relating their contents to current conditions that you will find the key to the revitalization of the teaching work and the winning of outstanding victories on the home front. In this effort you will be powerfully aided by the explanations provided in the letters of our dear Guardian, such as “The Advent of Divine Justice,” “The Challenging Requirements of the Present Hour,” [in Citadel of Faith, p. 4] “American Bahá’ís in time of World Peril.” [in Citadel of Faith, p. 122] We have every confidence that, together with the Continental Counsellors and the Auxiliary Board members, you can discover the way further to release the enormous energies of the friends and to intensify the zeal which they have so splendidly displayed in the teaching field on so many occasions in the past.” (Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States, May 19, 1994)

“Concerning your request for advice about a systematic deepening plan, you are referred to 'The Advent of Divine Justice' (page 41) and 'Citadel of Faith' (pages 76-77). There, the beloved Guardian outlined areas of study which aim to deepen the spiritual life of the believers and prepare them for teaching and service to the Faith.”
      (From a letter dated 18 July 1984 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

“The collected messages of Shoghi Effendi to the American community published in such well-read and familiar titles as 'Bahá'í Administration', 'The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh', 'The Advent of Divine Justice', 'Messages to America', 'The Promised Day is Come' and 'Citadel of Faith', form part of the primary literature of the Faith.”
      (From a letter dated 1 October 1987 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a Bahá'í Publishing Trust, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


3) COMMUNITY

A. Participation in Community

“His brotherly advice to you, and to all loyal and ardent young believers like you, is that you should deepen your knowledge of the history and of the tenets of the Faith, not merely by means of careful and thorough study, but also through active, whole-hearted and continue participation in all the activities, whether administrative or otherwise, of your community. The Bahá’í community life provides you with an indispensable laboratory where you can translate into living and constructive action, the principles which you imbibe from the teachings. By becoming a real part of that living organism you can catch the real spirit which runs throughout the Bahá’í teachings.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 84)

“His advice to you is to continue deepening your knowledge and understanding of this Revelation, both by means of patient and thorough study of Bahá’í writings, and through active association with your fellow-believers and close participation in the activities of your local Bahá’í community.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 98)

“By promoting the vital interests of the Faith’s institutions the Guardian means, amongst other things, that we should help our assemblies by electing wise and capable members, upholding their decisions, making suggestions for the work at Feasts, and consulting properly on the affairs of the Cause; contributing to the Fund; deepening our knowledge of the administrative order, etc.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 104-105)

The basic purpose of all Bahá’í summer schools, whether in East or West, is to give the believers the opportunity to fully acquaint themselves, not only by mere study but through whole-hearted and active collaboration in various Bahá’í activities, with the essentials of the Administration and in this way enable them to become efficient and able promoters of the Cause. (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 8)


4) ADMINISTRATION/NEWS

A. News and Goals
B. Administration (and correlate with secular knowledge–see next
section), including book Bahá’í Administration

1. Administration
2. Administration, Scholarship, and Correlating Teachings to Modern
Problems
3. “Bahá’í Administration” important to read (for National Assembly
members)


A. News and Goals

“A firmer grasp of the essential verities of the Faith; a more profound study of its history and a deeper understanding of its genesis, the significance, the workings, and the present status and achievements of its embryonic World Order and of the Covenant to which it owes its birth and vitality–these remain the rock bottom requirements which alone can guarantee the opening, and hasten the advent, of that blissful era which every British Bahá’í heart so eagerly anticipates, and the glories of which can, at present, be but dimly discerned.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 64)

“In their efforts...they must...master the essentials of its administration, and keep abreast of its current affairs and latest developments.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 57)

“...besides deepening your knowledge of the basic tenets of the Faith and of keeping you in close contact with its administrative developments it gives you an opportunity to prepare yourself for the teaching of the Cause.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 82)

“A detailed and exact knowledge of the present structure of Bahá'í Administration, or of the By-laws of National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, or of the many and varied applications of Bahá'í law under the diverse conditions prevailing around the world, while valuable in itself, cannot be regarded as the sort of knowledge primarily intended by deepening.”   (From the Ridvan 1967 Message of the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá'ís of the World, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, 1st rev. ed. Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976, pp. 113-115, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

“The friends should concentrate on deepening their grasp of the Teachings, particularly on studying what has already been done, and what must be done to fulfil the goals....” (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, May 11, 1954, quoted in Lights of Guidance, vol. iii., no. 1900)

B. Administration (and correlate with secular knowledge–see next
section), including book Bahá’í Administration


1. Administration

The basic purpose of all Bahá’í summer schools, whether in East or West, is to give the believers the opportunity to fully acquaint themselves, not only by mere study but through whole-hearted and active collaboration in various Bahá’í activities, with the essentials of the Administration and in this way enable them to become efficient and able promoters of the Cause. The teaching of the Administration is, therefore, an indispensable feature of every Bahá’í summer school and its special significance can be better understood if we realize the great need of every believer today for a more adequate understanding of the social principles and laws of the Faith. It is now, when the Cause is passing through some of the most difficult stages of its development, that the friends should equip themselves with the necessary knowledge of the Administration. The Guardian wishes you, therefore, to stress again, in all the coming summer schools, this vital point and in this way add to the effectiveness and success of your efforts along this line.
In his own hand the Guardian adds: “I certainly advise you to concentrate next year on the “Dawn-Breakers”, as well as on the needs, the principles and the purpose of Bahá’í Administration. The Cause in your land is still in its formative period. It needs men and women of vision, of capacity and understanding.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 8)

“...through laboratory courses designed to familiarize the participants with the processes of the Bahá’í Administrative Order...these schools, open to Bahá’ís and non-Bahá’ís alike, have set so noble an example as to inspire other Bahá’í communities...to undertake the initial measures designed to enable them to build along the same lines institutions that bid fair to evolve into the Bahá’í universities of the future.” (Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 12)

“As regards the study courses for the next year’s session; the Guardian wishes you to cover the same subjects, namely the Administrative Order and Islám, but feels that these should be studied through more detailed and concentrated examination of all their aspects. An effort should be done to raise the standard of studies, so as to provide the Bahá’í student with a thorough knowledge of the Cause that would enable him to expound it befittingly to the educated public.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 9)

“The wide range of topics that are to be discussed and studied by the friends cover most of the important aspects of the Cause and such a plan will undoubtedly give them a broad and a sound knowledge of the essentials of the Faith. Special stress, however, should be put on the history of the Movement as well as on the guiding principles of Bahá’í Administration–for on these two points most of the believers are not adequately informed. It is, therefore, a great opportunity for them to strengthen the basis of their beliefs and to try to deepen their understanding of the basis of the present-day Bahá’í administrative system.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 7)

“He feels that in your next summer meetings continued emphasis should be laid upon the teaching of the Administration, especially in its relation to the outside world, so as to impress the non-Bahá’í attendants at the School with the nature, character and world-significance of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. The teaching of the Administration should, indeed, be considered as forming a permanent and vital feature of every Bahá’í summer school. For upon its thorough and intelligent understanding by the entire community of the believers must inevitably depend the effectiveness and continued expansion of Bahá’í activities throughout the world.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Centers of Bahá’í Learning, p. 9)

“The Guardian would..strongly urge you to get increasingly familiar with the literature of the Cause, to study and investigate all its aspects, whether spiritual, social or administrative, so that you may, in a not distant future, be able to rank among the distinguished and outstanding teachers and exponents of the Movement.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 83-84)

“Your emphasis on the study of the Administration, he feels, is most timely and of a vital practical importance, inasmuch as it serves to consolidate and direct towards a definite objective your general teaching work. Without the study and application of the Administration the teaching of the Cause becomes not only meaningless, but loses in effectiveness and in scope.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 90)

“I grieve to learn of the situation which the disharmony of the believers has created. Emphasis should be laid by all members, and with increasing force and determination, upon the essentials of the Administrative Order as explained in the book entitled “Bahá’í Administration”. Whatever is not provided, should be referred to your national assembly. The decision of the majority must, under all circumstances be upheld and enforced. Persevere and never lose heart and courage.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 56)

“The beloved Guardian wrote, "To strive to obtain a more adequate understanding of the significance of Bahá'u'lláh stupendous Revelation must, it is my unalterable conviction, remain the first obligation and the object of the constant endeavour of each one of its loyal adherents," a statement which places the obligation of deepening in the Cause firmly on every believer. It is therefore upon the nature of deepening, rather than upon the desirability of pursuing it, that we wish to comment.

“A detailed and exact knowledge of the present structure of Bahá'í Administration, or of the By-laws of National and Local Spiritual Assemblies, or of the many and varied applications of Bahá'í law under the diverse conditions prevailing around the world, while valuable in itself, cannot be regarded as the sort of knowledge primarily intended by deepening.”   (From the Ridvan 1967 Message of the Universal House of Justice to the Bahá'ís of the World, published in Wellspring of Guidance: Messages 1963-1968, 1st rev. ed. Wilmette: Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976, pp. 113-115, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


2. Administration, Scholarship, and Correlating Teachings to Modern
Problems


“Young men and women in the Faith must be deep and thoughtful scholars of its teachings, so that they can teach in a way that will convince people that all the problems facing them have a remedy. They must grasp the Administration, so that they can wisely and efficiently administer the ever-growing affairs of the Cause; and they must exemplify the Bahá’í way of living.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 102)

“The Cause needs more Bahá’í scholars, people who not only are devoted to tell others about it, but also who have a deep grasp of the teachings and their significance, and who can correlate its beliefs with the current thoughts and problems of the people of the world.
“The Cause has the remedy for all the world’s ills. The reason why more people don’t accept it is because the Bahá’ís are not always capable of presenting it to them in a way that meets the immediate needs of their minds. Young Bahá’ís like yourself must prepare themselves to really bring the Message to their generation who needs it so desperately and who can understand the language it speaks so well.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 101)

“It seems what we need now is a more profound and co-ordinated Bahá’í scholarship in order to attract such men as you are contacting. The world has–at least the thinking world–caught up by now with all the great and universal principles enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh over 70 years ago, and so of course it does not sound “new” to them. But we know that the deeper teachings, the capacity of His projected world order to re-create society, are new and dynamic. It is these we must learn to present intelligently and enticingly to such men!” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 111)


3. “Bahá’í Administration” important to read (for National Assembly members) (and “Messages to America” is a part of primary Bahá’í literature also)

“I grieve to learn of the situation which the disharmony of the believers has created. Emphasis should be laid by all members, and with increasing force and determination, upon the essentials of the Administrative Order as explained in the book entitled “Bahá’í Administration”. Whatever is not provided, should be referred to your national assembly. The decision of the majority must, under all circumstances be upheld and enforced. Persevere and never lose heart and courage.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 56)

“The Guardian would strongly urge each and every member of the National Spiritual Assembly to carefully peruse, and to quietly ponder upon the outer meaning and upon the inner spirit as well, of all his communications on the subject of the origin, nature and present-day functioning of the administrative order of the Faith. A compilation of these letters has been lately published in the States under the title 'Bahá'í Administration', and a complete knowledge of that book seems to be quite essential to the right handling of the administrative problems facing your National Spiritual Assembly at present.”
(9 May 1934, to a National Spiritual Assembly)

“The collected messages of Shoghi Effendi to the American community published in such well-read and familiar titles as 'Bahá'í Administration', 'The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh', 'The Advent of Divine Justice', 'Messages to America', 'The Promised Day is Come' and 'Citadel of Faith', form part of the primary literature of the Faith.”
(From a letter dated 1 October 1987 written on behalf of the Universal House of
Justice to a Bahá'í Publishing Trust)



5) RELATIONSHIP OF BAHÁ’Í FAITH WITH FORCES IN THE WORLD, PAST
AND PRESENT

A. Acquire knowledge of forces of decline and growth leading mankind toward
glorious destiny. (For decline and growth within the Faith alone, see History
section, particularly God Passes By)


“ESSENTIAL THAT YOUTH THROUGH PROLONGED SYSTEMATIC STUDY WRITINGS BELOVED GUARDIAN ACQUIRE PROFOUND UNDERSTANDING OPERATION OF FORCES OF DECLINE AND GROWTH CREATING UNIVERSAL FERMENT IN WORLD TODAY AND LEADING MANKIND FORWARD TO GLORIOUS DESTINY.”
      (From a telex dated 4 August 1987 from the Universal House of Justice to the participants of the Youth Conference in Manchester, U.K., quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

See also Century of Light.



B. World Order of Bahá’u’lláh (including “Goal of a New World Order”) (see
History section 8A and 8D for references to “Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh”)

1. Study the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh


. . .it is one of the important duties of the Bahá'í institutions . . , to educate Bahá'ís in the Covenant, and to encourage them to study carefully the writings of the beloved Guardian which provide lasting guidance for the establishment of the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh.
      (From a letter dated 24 December 1984 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual believer, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

“The collected messages of Shoghi Effendi to the American community published in such well-read and familiar titles as 'Bahá'í Administration', 'The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh', 'The Advent of Divine Justice', 'Messages to America', 'The Promised Day is Come' and 'Citadel of Faith', form part of the primary literature of the Faith.”
      (From a letter dated 1 October 1987 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a Bahá'í Publishing Trust, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


2. Present concepts from or akin to “The World Order of Bahá’u’lláh” to the
public without descending into politics

      Concerning the general letter ['The Goal of a New World Order', 28 November 1931 (in 'The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh'. PP. 29-51)] he has sent lately to the Western friends, to which you refer in your letter: Shoghi Effendi thinks that the friends should spread the message it conveys to the public. It should undoubtedly be done in a very judicious way lest the people think that we have entered the arena of politics with rather drastic program of reform. But we should at the same time show the lead that the teachings take towards the realization of the international ideal. The primary importance of the Cause among the existing religions of the world is that, whereas the others have no coherent program upon which they are united, the Movement is rich with the very spirit and teachings the world needs for solving its present international problems. It is a wonderful chance for the Cause to absorb the interest of the intelligent elements in the public.
      (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 14 January 1932, to an individual believer, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )

"There is, however, one case in which one can criticize the present social and political order without being necessarily forced to side with or oppose any existing regime. And this is the method adopted by the Guardian in his `Goal of a New World Order'. His criticisms of the world conditions beside being very general in character are abstract; that is, instead of condemning existing institutional organizations it goes deeper and analyzes the basic ideas and conceptions which have been responsible for their establishment. This being a mere intellectual and philosophical approach to the problem of world political crisis, there is no objection if you wish to try such a method, which immediately carries you from the field of practical politics to that of political theory. But in view of the fact that no clear-cut line can be drawn between theory and practice you should be extremely careful not to make too free a use of such a method." (On behalf of the Guardian, Lights of Guidance, p. 452)


“In connection with your teaching work; what the Guardian wishes you to particularly emphasize in all your talks is the supreme necessity for all individuals and nations in this day to adopt in its entirety the social program given by Bahá'u'lláh for the reconstruction of the religious, economic and political life of mankind. He wishes you to explain and analyze the elements that help in raising this Divine World Order in the light of the present-day events and conditions in the world. Special stress, he feels, should be laid on the impending necessity of establishing a super-national, and sovereign world-state, as the one described by Bahá'u'lláh. With the world becoming increasingly subject to tumults and convulsions never experienced before, the realization of such a necessity is entering into the consciousness of not only the wise and learned, but of the common people as well. The believers should, therefore, seize this opportunity and make a supreme effort to present, in a convincing and eloquent language, those social and humanitarian teachings of the Faith which we believe to constitute the sole panacea for the innumerable ills afflicting our present-day world.
      Concerning the essential qualifications of a Bahá'í teacher; these have been repeatedly stated by the Guardian in both his general and private communications to the friends, Besides many others, there are two most essential qualifications: first is unqualified devotion and loyalty to everything the Cause stands for; next is thorough knowledge and comprehension of the Teachings.
      (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, 15 November 1935, to two individuals, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )


C. Promised Day is Come (which refers to spiritual forces leading to decline of
prior religion’s institutions and coming establishment of the Bahá’í Faith) is
part of primary Bahá’í literature.


“The collected messages of Shoghi Effendi to the American community published in such well-read and familiar titles as 'Bahá'í Administration', 'The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh', 'The Advent of Divine Justice', 'Messages to America', 'The Promised Day is Come' and 'Citadel of Faith', form part of the primary literature of the Faith.”
      (From a letter dated 1 October 1987 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to a Bahá'í Publishing Trust, quoted in the compilation “Studying the Writings of Shoghi Effendi” on-line at http://bahai-library.org/compilations/writings.guardian.html )




VI. Secular Subjects of Study




I. IMPORTANCE OF SCIENCES AND CRAFTS (to teaching and service) (p.
102)
II. DON’T NEED TO FIND “TRUTH” ELSEWHERE (though it is reflected
elsewhere and one must observe its manifestations in the world to
understand as well as teach the Writings)


III. LEARN SCIENCE AND LITERATURE (on own) (p. 102)

IV. STUDY HISTORY (including religious), ECONOMICS, SOCIOLOGY, ETC.
(on own) (p. 102)
V. FIND HARMONY IN TRUE SCIENCE AND RELIGION (p. 103)
VI. STUDY LANGUAGES FOR TEACHING (AND UNDERSTANDING) FAITH
(AND TRANSLATING THE WRITINGS)
VII. (STUDY THE WRITINGS ON PROFESSIONS: AGRICULTURE,
ECONOMICS/BUSINESS, EDUCATION, MEDIA, GOVERNANCE, ETC.)

VII. DON’T LET MATERIAL STUDIES ECLIPSE SPIRITUAL STUDIES (p.
103)
VIII. GIVEN LIMITED TIME IN BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL, DON’T GET INTO
SCIENTIFIC TANGENTS (p. 103)


I. IMPORTANCE OF SCIENCES AND CRAFTS (to teaching and service)

“The third Tajallí is concerning arts, crafts and sciences. Knowledge is as wings to man’s life, and a ladder for his ascent. Its acquisition is incumbent upon everyone. The knowledge of such sciences, however, should be acquired as can profit the peoples of the earth, and not those which begin with words and end with words. Great indeed is the claim of scientists and craftsmen on the peoples of the world...In truth, knowledge is a veritable treasure for man, and a source of glory, of bounty, of joy, of exaltation, of cheer and gladness unto him.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 51-52)

“The fifth Taráz concerneth the protection and preservation of the stations of God’s servants. One should not ignore the truth of any matter, rather should one give expression to that which is right and true. The people of Bahá should not deny any soul the reward due to him, should treat craftsmen with deference, and, unlike the people aforetime, should not defile their tongues with abuse. In this Day the sun of craftsmanship shineth above the horizon of the occident and the river of arts is flowing out of the sea of that region. One must speak with fairness and appreciate such bounty.” (Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 38-39)

“Therefore science, education and civilization are most important necessities for the full religious life.”
(Attributed to `Abdu'l-Baha, Abdu'l-Baha in London, p. 29)

“whatever science and reason cannot support must be rejected as imitation and not reality. Then differences of belief will disappear. All will become as one family, one people, and the same susceptibility to the divine bounty and education will be witnessed among mankind.”
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 176)

“On the shoulders of the youth today rests the future of the Faith. Therefore they should be well educated and trained not only in the Teachings of the Faith, but also in secular matters.”
(Shoghi Effendi: Youth, Page: 438)

While attributing a lesson of the Titanic disaster as overreliance of man on material means and failure to rely on God, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said:
"Let no one imagine that these words imply that man should not be thorough and careful in his undertakings. God has endowed man with intelligence so that he may safeguard and protect himself. Therefore, he must provide and surround himself with all that scientific skill can produce. He must be deliberate, thoughtful and thorough in his purposes, build the best ship and provide the most experienced captain; yet, withal, let him rely upon God and consider God as the one Keeper. If God protects, nothing can imperil man's safety; and if it be not His will to safeguard, no amount of preparation and precaution will avail."
(`Abdu'l-Baha: Promulgation of Universal Peace*, Page: 48)

"Let the loved ones of God, whether young or old, whether male or female, each according to his capabilities, bestir themselves and spare no efforts to acquire the various current branches of knowledge, both spiritual and secular, and of the arts. Whensoever they gather in their meetings let their conversation be confined to learned subjects and to information on the knowledge of the day.
If they do thus, they will flood the world with the Manifest Light, and change this dusty earth into gardens of the Realm of Glory."
(`Abdu'l-Baha, Education, p. 253)


II. DON’T NEED TO FIND “TRUTH” ELSEWHERE (though it is reflected
elsewhere and one must observe its manifestations in the world to
understand as well as teach the Writings)

“The friends need only read the Writings; the answers are all in them....” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 53)

"...the solution given to the world's problems by Bahá'u'lláh is the only solution-being Divine in origin-and most desperately needed; therefore we, the few who have caught the vision, should not waste our energies beating up and down the paths pursued by humanity, and which are not solving its ghastly present-day problems. We should concentrate on the Cause, because it is what is needed to cure the world. This is a sound attitude, for if we don't devote ourselves to the Bahá'í work and teaching, who will?

"On the other hand there is a big difference between this and learning. If the Bahá'ís want to be really effective in teaching the Cause they need to be much better informed and able to discuss intelligently, intellectually, the present condition of the world and its problems. We need Bahá'í scholars, not only people far, far more deeply aware of what our teachings really are, but also well-read and well-educated people, capable of correlating our teachings to the current thoughts of the leaders of society.

"We Bahá'ís should, in other words, arm our minds with knowledge in order to better demonstrate to, especially, the educated classes, the truths enshrined in our Faith. What the Guardian, however, does not advise the friends to do is to dissipate their time and energies in serving movements that are akin to our principles but not, we believe, capable of solving the present spiritual crisis the world finds itself in. We can co-operate with such movements and their promoters to good effect, while at the same time openly standing forth as Bahá'ís with a specific programme to offer society." (5 July 1949 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)



III. LEARN SCIENCE AND LITERATURE (on own)

“The Bahá’í youth must be taught how to teach the Cause of God. Their knowledge of the fundamentals of the Faith must be deepened and the standard of their education in science and literature enhanced. They must become thoroughly familiar with the language used and the example set by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His public addresses throughout the West. They must also be acquainted with those essential prerequisites of teaching as recorded in the Holy Books and Tablets.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, pp. 50-51)

"Women must go on advancing; they must extend their knowledge of science, literature, history, for the perfection of humanity. Erelong they will receive their rights. ('Abdu'l-Bahá quoted in Bahá'u'lláh and the New Era, pp. 148-149)



IV. STUDY HISTORY (including religious), ECONOMICS, SOCIOLOGY, ETC.
(on own) (p. 102)

“The Guardian has always advised young people to study deeply such subjects as History, Economics and Sociology as they are all related to the teachings and aid in understanding the Faith...” (From a letter dated 12 March 1944 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)

“Shoghi Effendi has for years urged the Bahá’ís (who asked his advice, and in general also), to study history, economics, sociology, etc., in order to be au courant with all the progressive movements and thoughts being put forth today, and so that they could correlate these to the Bahá’í teachings. What he wants the Bahá’ís to do is to study more, not to study less. The more general knowledge they possess, the better. Likewise he is constantly urging them to really study the Bahá’í teachings more deeply. One might liken Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings to a sphere; there are points poles apart, and in between the thoughts and doctrines that unite them.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, p. 108)

The Guardian feels that a sound knowledge of history, including religious history, and also of social and economic subjects, is of great help in teaching the Cause to intelligent people; as to what subjects within the Faith you should concentrate on he feels that the young Bahá’ís should gain a mastery of such books as the “Gleanings”, the “Dawn-breakers”, “God Passes By”, the “Íqán”, “Some Answered Questions” and the more important Tablets. All aspects of the Faith should be deeply studied....” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Pearls of Wisdom, p. 105)

“As regards your future: he feels that if you specialize in the Social Sciences this would be of assistance in teaching the Cause.” (From a letter dated 24 June 1947 written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer)

"Women must go on advancing; they must extend their knowledge of science, literature, history, for the perfection of humanity. Erelong they will receive their rights. ('Abdu'l-Bahá quoted in Bahá'u'lláh and the New Era, pp. 148-149)

(See History section for study of Bahá’í history and see Moral/Social/Administrative/World section for references in the Writings which provide an understanding of history and current events outside of the Bahá’í community.)


V. FIND HARMONY IN TRUE SCIENCE AND RELIGION

“Strive to extend the sphere of your activities and seek to understand and promote the harmony that must exist between true science and Divine Revelation.” (Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 49)



VI. STUDY LANGUAGES FOR TEACHING (AND UNDERSTANDING) FAITH
(AND TRANSLATING THE WRITINGS)

“...the Bahá’í parents from an Iranian background should endeavor to teach their children the Persian language, for Persian is one of the two languages of revelation in this glorious Dispensation. Bahá’u’lláh says: “In this Day when the sun of knowledge hath appeared and is resplendent from the firmament of Iran, whatever is said in praise of this language is meet and seemly.” He also says: “The Beloved of the world speaks in the Persian language. It would be praiseworthy in His eyes if His loved ones also converse and write in this language.”
It would be a great service if, in every city and region where a number of Iranian Bahá’ís reside, some Persian friends would exert a special effort to teach this language to the children and youth, study together the Writings in Persian, and drink their fill from the billowing source of the Creative Word and the Sacred Writings. We praise God for having enabled some Bahá’í institutions abroad to devise ways and develop programs to teach the Persian language to those Iranians who live outside their homeland. Such programs can be put to good use for the achievement of this blessed service.” (Universal House of Justice, to the Iránian believers throughout the world, 154 B.E.)

"Acquire the Persian tongue, so as to learn of the meanings of the divine words and to know the divine mysteries, to develop an eloquent speech and to translate the blessed Tablets of Baha'u'llah. The Persian language shall become noteworthy in this cycle; nay, rather, the people shall study it in all the world." (‘Abdu’l-Bahá quoted in Lights of Guidance, p. 341)

“With regard to Arabic, in several Tablets Baha'u'llah praises the
vastness and eloquence of the Arabic language, but in none of His Writings does He state that His followers are required to learn that language. In a number of instances `Abdu'l-Baha and the Guardian have both encouraged the believers in the West to learn Persian. Similarly, `Abdu'l-Baha and Shoghi Effendi on occasion encouraged believers in Europe and Asia to study English. And, as you are no doubt aware, the involvement of the friends in the study of Esperanto has also been deemed praiseworthy. However, the choice as to which language will ultimately be selected as the international auxiliary language has been left by Baha'u'llah, in His Book of Laws, to the leaders of the nations or possibly to the House of Justice to decide.” (On behalf of the Universal House of Justice, an email dated 10 February 1998 to an individual)

“Such testimonies bearing on this theme [inestimable wealth which Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá bequeathed to posterity (in the greatness of this Day)] are impregnated with such power and reveal such beauty as only those who are versed in the languages in which they were originally revealed can claim to have sufficiently appreciated.” (Shoghi Effendi, World Order of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 103)

“Shoghi Effendi was very glad to hear that you are planning to study Persian very seriously. Should you do it you will obtain ample reward for your labours, for you will then be able to go straight to the writings themselves.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, The Light of Divine Guidance, p. 21)

Every child without exception must from his earliest years make a thorough study of the art of reading and writing, and according to his own tastes and inclinations and the degree of his capacity and powers, devote extreme diligence to the acquisition of learning, beneficial arts and skills, various languages, speech and contemporary technology.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, in Bahá’í Education, pp. 58)

“And further, as well as in the ideals of character, instruction in such arts and sciences as are of benefit, and in foreign tongues.” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá’í Education, p. 42)

(Study language and culture of greatest needs for teaching. Insert re: Chinese language...????)

Regarding 'Abdu'l-Bahá praying to learn Arabic, see Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh, p. ????


VII. (STUDY THE WRITINGS ON PROFESSIONS: AGRICULTURE,
ECONOMICS/BUSINESS, EDUCATION, MEDIA, GOVERNANCE, ETC.)

"When deciding what course of training to follow, youth can consider acquiring those skills and professions that will be of benefit in education, rural development, agriculture, economics, technology, health, radio and in many other areas of endeavour that are so urgently needed in the developing countries of the world. You can also devote time in the midst of your studies, or other activities, to travel teaching or service projects in the Third World."
(Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 636)

“Regarding your question about what courses would be most useful for you to study: He feels that both radio and journalistic work are fields in which the Baha'is could well learn to express themselves for the sake of helping their teaching work, and advises you, if you have the time, to study these subjects.”
(Shoghi Effendi: Writers and Writing, Page: 413)


VIII. DON’T LET MATERIAL STUDIES ECLIPSE SPIRITUAL STUDIES


“We should also not let our studies detain us from deepening our knowledge of the literature of the Cause.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 71)

“He urges you, however, to devote yourself as much as possible to studying and spreading the Bahá’í teachings, whatever your other occupations may be.” (On behalf of Shoghi Effendi, Pearls of Wisdom, 100)


IX. GIVEN LIMITED TIME IN BAHÁ’Í SCHOOL, DON’T GET INTO
SCIENTIFIC TANGENTS

“He feels...that some of the courses are not sufficiently Bahá’í in nature, but carry the student off into an unnecessary study of special techniques–history, psychology or whatever it may be, which however valuable these topics may be in training the human mind and fitting the individual for contact with others, are a waste of time, in view of the very limited period that most of the Bahá’ís spend at a Bahá’í summer school.
“The friends should concentrate on deepening their grasp of the Teachings, particularly on studying what has already been done, and what must be done to fulfil the goals....” (From a letter written on behalf of Shoghi Effendi to an individual believer, May 11, 1954, quoted in Lights of Guidance, vol. iii., no. 1900)


The following is a sample course of study attempting to incorporate all of the elements included in the compilation.



Three Basic Segments of Each Class


1. Proofs (of God’s existence and oneness, of need for religion, and of prior
Prophets–also tie into other religions and Scriptures) (see p. )
2. History (Stations & Covenants of Central Figures, and history from pre-
Bábí/Islámic days through present day Administrative Order
(see p. )

3. Personal, social, and administrative development (Laws, Teachings,
Administrative Order, and reading of Tablets and Prayers) (see p. ,)
a. Obligatory prayer (learn in groups according to level)
at least the short
genuflections
medium, long, in Arabic, as possible & desired
prayer workbook
b. Recital each morning & evening of verses
c. Meditation on teachings to understand, fulfill, convey
Virtue/Hidden Word
Reciting/Deepening workbook
d. Behave in accordance
Advent of Divine Justice
Nutrition, health, finances, planning
e. Teach Cause (nature, methods, goals)
f. Serve
Cause
Community goals
Administrative goals
profession
Understand history, sociology, economics
Understand Faith’s perspective on sciences
Homemaking and Parenting


Subject Components of Youth Class (Detailed)

(All the following, with the exception of role-play and drama, are mentioned in the Writings or materials prepared by the International or National Institutions or Committees for teaching as potential components for study or teaching groups. Drama, however, which could presumably include role-play, is a recommended teaching method and fits well as a technique to develop teaching skills in a comfortable yet simulated environment and/or as one component of materials creation.)

Our class is finding it useful to have:
1) one class for #2 (and #6) (with reference to prior religions and
Scriptures, some reference to teaching methods, goals, and
planning) (i.e., the Proofs)
2) one class for #3 (and #6) (also covering the Stations and Covenants
of the Central Figures, and Islámic origins of Faith) (i.e., the
history)
3) one other class for #1, 4-8 (using the 6 essential prerequisites for
spiritual growth as a framework, and then drawing in other
potential subjects–e.g., the reading of Tablets falls logically under
reciting the verses every morning and evening. (i.e., laws and
teachings, Administration, and reciting the Tablets)

#0 and #9 would usually occur out of class, though #9 could be a logical outgrowth of any of the sections including study of the proofs, discussion of the moral, social, professional/educational, administrative, etc. teachings, and especially the history. One may videotape any talks given in class for later editing, etc., toward materials creation.

Subject Components (Summary)
(note 4, 5, and 6 could support 1, 2, and 3)

0) Prepare ahead of time with spiritual and physical readiness for meeting

1) Read/Chant/Memorize Tablets, Communes, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
(including those on teaching) (see p. )

2) Proofs, arguments, and prophecies (see p. )
3) History (see p. )
4) a) Laws and Teachings, (see p. )
b) Administrative Order (see p. )

5) Read instructive articles (see p. )
6) Give eloquent speeches (including those created by youth) (see p. )

7) Consult and make plans for implementing study and action (see pp. )
8) Sing meekly at end (see pp. )

9) Materials creation (out of meeting, but for use in meeting or for related
firesides, socials, service projects, devotionals, etc., conducted by the
group–use of arts and/or media, etc.) (see pp. )



Subject Components (detailed)
(see summary above for page numbers)

0) Prepare ahead of time with spiritual and physical readiness for meeting
1) Read/Chant prayers then read Writings; might read/memorize Tablets,
Communes, Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
a. prayer
b. (reading and) memorization of passages from the Writings
c. study of the Writings about teaching, and
d. deepening

"...first, prayer should be chanted and supplication made until all gather; then communion should be made. After praying, sacred readings with melodious voices should be read by all together..." (Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha Abbas, pp. 15-16)

2) Proofs, arguments, and prophecies (with reference to prior religions and
Scriptures, some reference to teaching methods, goals, and planning)
3) History (also covering the Stations and Covenants of the Central Figures)
4) a) Laws and Teachings,
the following moral qualities are mentioned as of particular
importance for girls (though, as boys and girls are to have the
same school curriculum, there would seem no reason this would
not be applicable to boys as well), and as to be covered in such
study meetings:
i. good behavior, a proper way of life, the cultivation of a good
character, chastity and purity of life,
ii. high-mindedness, righteousness and the dignity of
humankind, the will to advance, the will to strive,
determination, firmness of purpose, resolution, high resolve,
strength, the will to endure, perseverance, constancy, learn
to carry to a successful conclusion whatsoever they
undertake
b) Administrative Order (genesis, significance, workings, and present
status and achievements)
5) Read instructive articles
(Though the following could include talks, arts, etc., they are grouped under articles for clarity. As the meeting is to focus on teaching, this would be its primary purpose. However, the following are particularly recommended for the women believers (in a Tablet to those holding a meeting on learning the proofs and how to teach the Faith as well as make plans for training the children) to study and in turn to teach their children. Though, as curriculum is to be the same for girl and boys, it would seem relevant also to the boys to know (while they could also dwell on the financial responsibilities of parenting). Though mentioned in connection with the adult women, it could conceivably be referred to in the youth class. (It is conceivable, perhaps, that these classes may take place only where such knowledge is not otherwise readily disseminated.)
a. whatever will nurture the health of the body and its physical
soundness
b. how to guard their children from disease
c. household management
d. whatever especially applieth to the needs of girls
6) Give eloquent speeches (including those created by youth)
(role plays might allow this to be integrated with the next goal:)
7) Consult and make plans for implementing study and action
a. reflection (i.e., consultation on
i. what worked
ii. what still needs to be done, and
iii. what course of action to follow in the future.)
a. (comprehensive list/specific immediate lines of action)
b. (Planning would conceivably revolve around homework and activities,
perhaps also those of subgroups or of institutes as described in 9.
below, if this would not take too much time.)

(As mentioned in 5. above, the following are recommended content of
meetings of adult women believers studying the proofs, though might
conceivably be a part of the youth class:)
b. make plans for:
i. training the children
ii. teaching the various branches of knowledge


8) Sing meekly at end

9) Given the fullness of the above course of action, the last component of
teaching institutes–which could involve the practice and performance/
display components of a Workshop–might be best done outside of class
by those interested in either focusing on a target population and/or a
particular form of material (though the materials created could be used
or shared in the study class meeting and/or, if not too lengthy, could be
created during the class meeting–such as brief skits on The Dawn-
Breakers to consolidate what had been learned):
1. use of the Word of God and
2. use of a. other materials
b. adaptation of existing materials or
c. development of new materials based on the needs of
the group of people the institute is trying to teach.
Such materials could conceivably include the creating and/or sharing of literature, children’s books, compilations, outlines, scripts, etc., and/or arts or music for external affairs, devotional, proclamation, fireside, or Bahá’í gatherings (Feasts can include talks and arts, music, etc.). Polished speeches, skits, songs, etc., created during the study class, could also conceivably be recorded for self and peer evaluation and/or for such outside use.

This materials creation component could include the preparation and holding of devotional, external affairs, and/or social gatherings (including networking) (supplemented by any artistic creations), the devotional gatherings being currently called for by the Universal House of Justice, and mentioned as being an activity which a “study circle” (a group of students facilitated by a tutor undergoing programs developed by a regional training institute–a concept which we may develop into as the regional training institute evolves) could implement.



Youth Class Methods

1. lecture (see pp. )
2. study, including use of study outlines (see p. )
3. discussion (see p. )
a. discussion for understanding
b. discussion for planning to implement or teach

c. role-play teaching
d. discussion on experiences in teaching

e. role-play history (or other artistic creations)

f. role-play administration

4. homework required and optional (see p. )
a. Further Reading
b. Reread/Study Book/Outline for Reinforcement for Talk
c. Perform talk/arts in Feast, fireside, individual teaching opportunity
(guiding, at school, etc.), or media
d. Create Extended Artistic/literary creation
e. Implement personal goals
f. Implement family, community, social, administrative goals
individually or collectively
Goals and Expectations of Each Lesson and Assignment

1. KNOWLEDGE
(WISDOM)
(SPIRITUAL PERCEPTION)
A. “understand more deeply”
2. VOLITION
3. ACTION
A. “fulfill more faithfully” (if applicable)
(ELOQUENT SPEECH)
B. “convey more accurately to others”

“Then, so much as capacity and capability allow, ye needs must deck the tree of being with fruits such as knowledge, wisdom, spiritual perception and eloquent speech.” (Bahá’u’lláh, in Bahá’í Education, p. 3, no. 9)

“Prayerful meditation on the Teachings, so that we may understand them more deeply, fulfill them more faithfully, and convey them more accurately to others.” (“essential requisites for our spiritual growth”) (Messages from the Universal House of Justice, p. 589)


Evaluation
(feedback from self, peer, instructors)

1) Meet basic requirements as set forth in Writings
2) Effort and faithfulness toward meeting requirements and if able
surpassing them
3) Any videotaped talks or skits

Homework


Proofs (see p. )
1. Required assignment:
a. Prepare talk/reread/study Some Answered Questions and
outline
b. Give talk for role-play at 2nd session, evaluated on criteria
c. Be prepared with same talk at House of Worship fireside
2. Optional assignment:
a. Further readings
b. Record one’s talk/write paper/give talk at Feast or fireside
History (see p. )
1. Required assignment:
a. Prepare talk/enact/reread/study God Passes By and outline
2. Optional assignment:
b. Further reading of God Passes By and The Dawn-Breakers

Personal, social, and administrative (see p. )
1. Required Assignment
a. Memorize or Discuss Prayer
b. Memorize or Discuss Hidden Word(s), or Tablets
c. Discuss and implement prejudice-free, chastity, moral
rectitude
d. Teach Cause - methods, goals
e. Service to Cause and profession (including Funds and
administration)
2. Optional assignment


Required Book and materials list


God Passes By
Some Answered Questions
Hidden Words

Prayer Book
Notebooks and binders for copied workbooks we are to distribute for each
subject area (sketch pad, and general scratch pad for to-dos and other,
contact list)


Recommended but not required


Writings of Bahá’u’lláh (which has all the currently translated and published
works of Bahá’u’lláh besides the entirety of The Kitáb-i-Aqdas)
The Kitáb-i-Íqán
The Dawn-Breakers
(The Ocean of His Words and A Companion to the Kitáb-i-Íqán have nice study outlines),


List of Books the Writings Encourage Us to Read


+ Works the Writings enjoin should be read over and over and mastered.
ra Works which are to be read (and applied)
ru Works which are to be read, understood, and communicated

Unmarked works are recommended to be read, particularly in connection
with those interested in the subject matter it covers
Parenthetical works are my own recommendation, though to my knowledge,
the Writings do not require the believers to read these.

Overview of Literature

+Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era (introduction-though may be surpassed
in future)

Proofs (see p. )
+Kitáb-i-Íqán
+Some Answered Questions
Book should be created to compile the proofs (might read existing
ones) for reference for those who ask for them
(ru) Works of Mírzá Abu'l-Fadl and other believers
(ru) Christ and Bahá'u'lláh
(ru) Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (The Promulgation of Universal Peace, Paris
Talks, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in London–though original in Persian is not
obtainable)
(ru) Qur’án/Islám
(ru) Bible

Theology/Basic Teachings

+Gleanings (use for teaching) (see pp. )

History (see p. )
+Dawn-Breakers (use for comfort, teaching, arts, pilgrimage)
+God Passes By

(A Traveler’s Narrative)
(Memorials of the Faithful)
(Secret of Divine Civilization)
Martha Root's book on Táhirih in reference to Táhirih
(Promised Day is Come)

History of the Intellectual Development of Europe
(re: Islám)
Cry from the Heart (martyrs in Írán)
To Move the World (Louis Gregory) (esp. re: race relations)


On Central Figures, Covenants, and Stations (see pp. )

(ru) “Book of My Covenant” (in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh)
(ru) Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh (included in World Order of Bahá’u’lláh)
(ru) Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá

Morality/Character

+Hidden Words (recite in morning and evening, and apply) (see pp. )
(ru) Advent of Divine Justice (character education work for youth) (see
pp. )
inspire them to follow Bahá'í way of life
morality, chastity esp. for youth
foster obedience to laws as against alcohol & drugs
on prejudice
moral rectitude in conduct (esp. for representatives of Faith)
+ The Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh – Bishárát, Ishráqát, Tajallíyyát, Tarázát,
Kalimát & other important Tablets when they are published (Book
of the Covenant), presumably the Most Holy Tablet and Tablet of
Carmel, the Tablet of Wisdom, Tablet of the World? (see pp. )

Laws
(ra) Kitáb-i-Aqdas (see pp. )

For Pilgrimage
Dawn-Breakers, see pilgrimage reading sheet for others (see p. )

World Order and Economy
(ru) World Order of Bahá'u'lláh (includes Dispensation of Bahá’u’lláh)
(Turning Point for all Nations)
(ru) Prosperity of Humankind
(ru) Who’s Writing the Future?
(Foundations of World Unity)
(Lights of Guidance,
vol. iii. re: economic sections)

Spiritual Sustenance
(+)Prayers and Meditations (see pp. )
Listed as most important for development of youth
Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to be read at meetings (Selections from the
Writings of
’Abdu’l-Bahá?)

Teaching Goals (and Methods) (pp. )

(ra)Tablets of the Divine Plan
(as noted by National Spiritual Assembly as relevant to the time, toward unlocking teaching potential)
supplemented by:
(ra) Advent of Divine Justice
(ra) Citadel of Faith (“America in Time of World Peril”, “Challenging Requirements of the
Present Hour”)
Tablets

There will of course be overlap between the above works and is not a wholly complete list. You may wish to add to this and inform us if you wish.


Three Session Cycle for each of Three Subjects
(Proofs, History, Moral/Social/Administrative/Spiritual)

(Each cycle has two classes except for the one beginning 11/14/99.)

1st of 3 class cycle: read/review, discuss, study
2nd of 3 class cycle: review and present (assign new reading)
3rd of 3 class cycle: practice at House of Worship (guiding) and/or hold
fireside on topic studied


Sample Timetable

(The classes in question will most likely be extended over more than the meetings scheduled into the next semester, so it will be necessary to call for homework if a session or sessions have been missed. When in class, you will be expected to take notes and keep track of assignments for yourself.)

Note to teacher: while having some advantages to give students an overview by such a fast coverage of the materials, it is likely better to have instead or supplement this with an ongoing study. The topics in any of the sections could take far longer than 3 weeks of classes to cover, especially given these topics’ fundamental importance as stressed in the Writings. Nevertheless, as the teacher cannot cover it all alone (the students would need to prepare), and as students should be given a sense of progress (especially the ones who do do the homework and make the preparations), the topics should not be extended indefinitely.


9/12/99 Introduction - Discuss Spiritual Meetings (go through this
course outline and following compilation) and Books for Youth
to Read
9/19/99 a) Introduce proof sequence, Chapters 1&2 (proofs and oneness
of God)
b) Introduction to importance of Day (Dispensation of
Bahá’u’lláh
), Central Figures’ stations, Covenants, and
timings, Introduction/Foreword to God Passes By, immediate
historical context (Islám, state of Persia, Shaykh Ahmad,
Siyyid Kázim), Introduction to The Dawn-Breakers
c) Obligatory Prayer
9/26/99 (all sessions continued from prior weeks)
9/31/99 Presentation/Visit House of Worship (at publicized, and friend
invited fireside)
10/03/99 a) Chapters 3 (84) (need for religion, suffering)
b) the Báb (pp. 3-85)
Further reading: The Dawn-Breakers & God Passes By
c) Recital every morning and evening
Meditate to understand, fulfill, and convey
10/10/99 (all sessions continued from prior weeks)
10/17/99 Presentation/Visit House of Worship (at publicized, and friend
invited fireside)
10/24/99 a) Chapter 4 & 5 (Judaism, influence on Greeks)
b) Bahá’u’lláh (pp. 89-233)
c) Behave in Accordance with laws and responsibilities
10/31/99 (all sessions continued from prior weeks)
11/07/99 Presentation/Visit House of Worship (at publicized, and friend
invited fireside)
11/14/99 a) Chapter 6 (Christianity influence in charity, proofs to Jews)
b) ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (pp. 237-320)
c) Teach Cause
11/21/99 (all sessions continued from prior weeks)
11/28/99 Presentation/Visit House of Worship (at publicized, and friend
invited fireside)
12/05/99 a) Chapter 7 (Islám, influence on Enlightenment, proofs to
Jews, Christians)
b) The Formative Age (The Administrative Order) (pp. 321-412)
c) Serve Cause and Profession (including parenting)
12/12/99 (all sessions continued from prior weeks)
12/19/99 Presentation/Visit House of Worship (at publicized and friend
invited fireside) & Closing