Dawn of a New Day
by Effendi Shoghi · English · Gutenberg #19271 · 439,275 chars · public domain (US)
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Title: Dawn of a New Day
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Dawn of a New Day
by Shoghi Effendi
Edition 1, (September 2006)
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CONTENTS
Baha'i Terms of Use
[Frontispiece]
PREFACE
LETTERS ADDRESSED TO THE N.S.A. OF INDIA
Letter to believers in India & Burmah
Excellent Field of Service
Position of Baha'i Women
The Baha'i News
An Era of Unprecedented Activity
Nothing Must Dampen Our Zeal
Unite in Promoting the Work of the Cause
Consolidation of the Foundations of the N.S.A.
The House of Baha'u'llah in Baghdad
Inaugurate a Fresh Campaign of Teaching
Increasing Activities
Bring Together the Hindus and Mohammedans
Cause Will Ultimately Conquer
Publication of Kaukab
The Baha'i News
Widen the Scope of Activities
Conduct of the Work of N.S.A.
Extend the Scope of Activities
[Letter of November 16, 1927]
[Letter of May 6, 1928]
[Letter of June 22, 1928]
[Letter of August 21, 1928]
Present the Teachings at Various Conventions & Gatherings
The Faith Publicized in Turkey
Maintain and Strengthen the Unity of the National Assembly
"Baha'i World"--Foremost Baha'i Publication
"Huquq"
Syed Jenab Ali--Distinguished Baha'i Leader
Martha Root Visits India
Baha'i Representation at the All-Asian Women's Conference
Publication of the "Dawn-Breakers"
Advertisements in Baha'i Periodicals
Mrs. Ransom Kehler Visits India
Translation of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
Mrs. Kehler Visits Calcutta
Translation of Baha'u'llah and the New Era
Need of Baha'i Teachers all over the World
Passing Away of the Greatest Holy Leaf
Publication of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
Baha'i Center in Calcutta
Teaching Among the Masses in India
Baha'i Magazine
Publication of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
Passing Away of Brilliant Teacher--Mrs. Kehler
Twentyfive Printed Versions of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
Registration of Bombay Assembly
Bedrock of Baha'i Administrative Order
Accept Justified Resignation
Revival of the Spirit of Fellowship
Changes in Membership of Baha'i Assemblies
Intensify Teaching Throughout India
Persecution of the Baha'is in Iran
Training of Baha'i Teachers
Registration of L.S.A. of Karachi
Formation of an Assembly in Lahore
Circulation of Abdu'l-Baha's Photographs
Splendid Initiative
Baha'i Holidays must be Observed
Effective Publicity Throughout India
Correspondence with the Guardian
"New-Era" in Sindhi & Bengali Printed
Union With Loved Ones in the Next World
Voting is Sacred Obligation
It is But a Beginning
Daidanaw Baha'i School
Two Main Principles to Follow
Visit of Mr. Schopflocher to India
Inflexible Determination Required
Welcome Extended to Mr. Schopflocher
Theosophists
Baha'i Holidays
Baha'i Administration
Obligatory Prayers
Progress of Teaching Most Gratifying
National Fund
Martha Root's Teaching Trip
Resting Place of Holy Mother
L.S.A. & Summer School in Simla
Six-Year Plan
First Indian Baha'i Summer School
Task Immense--Time Short
Splendid Work Accomplished by Miss Root
Baha'i Youth Groups
Summer School
David
Inheritance
Reason of Severe Laws Revealed by the Bab
Teaching--The Paramount Task
Meaning of Resurrection
Teaching--The Paramount Task
Martha Root's Arrival in Bombay
Paramount Task Facing the Believers
Passing Away of Dearest Martha
Sacred Task
Steady Extension of the Teaching Campaign
Financial Assistance to Baha'i Teachers
Translation of Baha'u'llah's Writings
Training of Children
Appearance of two Davids
Importance of the Teaching Campaign
Greatest Need of the Hour
Priceless Days
Refrain from Imposing New Rules
Every Obstacle Should Be Surmounted
Persecution of Baha'is of Kadwai
Use of A'rabs (Vowel Points)
Two Davids
He Whom God Will Make Manifest
The Holy Book--The Aqdas
Use of A'rabs (Vowel Points)
Writings of the Bab
The Universal House of Justice
Surmount Every Obstacle
Remarkable Evidence of Activity
Future is Blessed and Glorious
New Assemblies of Hyderabad & Kotah
Prizes to be Won
Passing of Abd'ul-Jalil Beg Saad
Painstaking and Fruitful Efforts
Placing of Burial Stone
Ensure the Triumphant Conclusion
Proper Administrative Headquarters
Passing Away of Mr. Vakil
Secretary of the N.S.A.
Election of L.S.A.'s
National Administrative Headquarters
Baha'is Can Undertake Philanthropic Work
Centenary Celebrations
Friends Should Unite
The Six-Year Plan Has Progressed Magnificently
Centenary Celebrations
Historic Achievements
Baha'u'llah and the New Era in Kanarese
Achieved Mighty Victories
Re-instate Assemblies in Burma
Teach a Wider Range of Indians
Passing Away of Siyyid Mustafa
Baha'i Marriage
Task Urgent, Vast and Sacred
Shoulder Heavy Responsibilities
Threefold Task
Baha'i Holy Days
Voting Rights
Responsibilities Immense
Answer to Various Matters
Unstinted Devotion Displayed
More Pioneers to Go Forth
Esslemont Book in Karen Language
Rules & Regulations Should Not Be Multiplied
Added Responsibility
Threshold of a New Epoch
Set the Highest Example of Tolerance
Greater Dedication to Service
Opportunity Which May Never Occur Again
Excommunication is a Spiritual Matter
Unite to Serve Him
Seeking to Purify the World
Stormy Yet Glorious Path of Service
Old and Tried Community
Arcade of the Shrine of the Bab
Grave Challenge
Superstructure of the Shrine of the Bab
Keep in Close Touch With Pioneers
End of Six-Year Plan Approaches
Arcade of the Shrine
Baha'is May Join Non-Partisan Organisations
A Baha'i Cannot be a Theosophist
Killing of a Believer in Kamarhatti
Convention Delegates
No Effort is Too Great
Photos of the Arcade of the Shrine
Inter-Assembly Conferences
Assembly in Moulmein, Burma
Centenary Pamphlet Excellent
Increase the Number of Delegates to 95
Pioneering to Siam
Registration of Assemblies
Contribution for the Shrine of the Bab
Baha'is Cannot Become Freemasons
Reviewing of Baha'i Books
Pioneers for Indonesia and Siam
Great Historic Enterprise
Increase of Believers in Benares
Teaching in South-East Asia
The 19-Month Plan
Pioneers to Settle in Africa
First Pilgrims from India
Inter-Continental Conference
No Harm in Taking Part in Dramas
Encouraging the Hindu Baha'is
The Work is Still Formidable
No Age Limit for Serving the Cause
Answer to Various Questions
Consolidation of the Manifold Institutions
The Most Important Thing is to Serve
Youth & the Ten-Year Crusade
Translation of Literature
Keynote of the Crusade
Consultation of Delegates
Concentrate on Home Front
Increase Number of Assemblies
Translation of Baha'i Books into Russian
Many Victories Won
Pioneering to Ceram
Baha'i Literature in Native Tongues
Pioneers in Sikkim
Pioneers to be Sent to Maldive Islands
Historic and Heart-Stirring
LETTERS ADDRESSED TO THE BAHA'I YOUTH OF INDIA
Letter of June 19, 1941
Letter of May 5, 1943
Letter of June 6, 1941
Letter of June 19, 1941
Letter of June 19, 1941
Letter of June 19, 1941
Letter of December 27, 1941
Letter of July 3, 1942
Letter of June 27, 1942
Letter of April 8, 1946
Letter of April 12, 1945
Letter of October 15, 1940
Letter of April 8, 1946
LETTERS ADDRESSED TO INDIVIDUAL BAHA'IS IN INDIA
Letter of June 20, 1923.
Letter of November 5, 1924
Letter of May 17, 1926
Letter of March 2, 1929
Letter of December 17, 1929
Letter of January 14, 1931
Letter of July 10, 1931
Letter of October 27, 1933
Letter of November 3, 1934
Letter of October 15, 1940
Letter of October 12, 1932
Letter of May 2, 1947
Letter of May 8, 1942
Letter of February 2, 1957
Letter of September 19, 1929
Letter of December 1, 1944
Letter of July 29, 1942
Letter of March 28, 1945
Letter of December 19, 1949
Letter of May 14, 1932
Letter of June 6, 1933
Letter of December 27, 1933
Letter of January 7, 1934
Letter of September 25, 1934
Letter of September 4, 1935
Letter of April 17, 1936
Letter of May 7, 1941
Letter of April 7, 1952
Letter of January 27, 1957
Letter of February 7, 1937
Letter of March 31, 1937
Letter of March 27, 1938
Letter of October 29, 1938
Letter of November 16, 1939
Letter of April 27, 1946
LETTERS ADDRESSED TO BURMESE BAHA'IS
Letter of June 1, 1923
Letter of June 2, 1923
CABLEGRAMS
Cablegram of 18.11.1935
Cablegram of 29.4.1937
Cablegram of 27.6.1937
Cablegram of 2.9.1937
Cablegram of 22.9.1938
Cablegram of 27.6.1942
Cablegram of 8.7.1942
Cablegram of 3.1.1943
Cablegram of 15.1.1943
Cablegram of 28.1.1943
Cablegram of 5.3.1943
Cablegram of 12.3.1943
Cablegram of 23.4.1943
Cablegram of 2.5.1943
Cablegram of 6.5.1943
Cablegram of 10.5.1943
Cablegram of 27.7.1943
Cablegram of 6.8.1943
Cablegram of 9.10.1943
Cablegram of 17.10.1943
Cablegram of 15.2.1944
Cablegram of 24.4.1944
Cablegram of 22.5.1944
Cablegram of 24.5.1944
Cablegram of 24.8.1944
Cablegram of 31.10.1944
Cablegram of 26.11.1944
Cablegram of 15.12.1944
Cablegram of 15.2.1945
Cablegram of 13.3.1945
Cablegram of 4.4.1945
Cablegram of 30.4.1945
Cablegram of 9.1.1946
Cablegram of 10.1.1946
Cablegram of 16.7.1946
Cablegram of 11.11.1946
Cablegram of 18.11.1946
Cablegram of 14.1.1947
Cablegram of 4.4.1947
Cablegram of 5.4.1947
Cablegram of 11.4.1947
Cablegram of 24.4.1947
Cablegram of 30.4.1947
Cablegram of 28.5.1947
Cablegram of 5.6.1947
Cablegram of 9.7.1947
Cablegram of 7.8.1947
Cablegram of 23.10.1947
Cablegram of 11.11.1947
Cablegram of 21.11.1947
Cablegram of 27.12.1947
Cablegram of 5.5.1948
Cablegram of 19.6.1948
Cablegram of 9.1.1949
Cablegram of 23.3.1949
Cablegram of 29.4.1949
Cablegram of 26.11.1949
Cablegram of 9.4.1950
Cablegram of 29.4.1950
Cablegram of 13.6.1950
Cablegram of 29.4.1951
Cablegram of 6.5.1951
Cablegram of 31.8.1951
Cablegram of 7.10.1953
Cablegram of 12.10.1953
Cablegram of 15.10.1953
Cablegram of 13.4.1954
Cablegram of 26.4.1955
Cablegram of 29.4.1955
[FRONTISPIECE]
DAWN OF A NEW DAY
SHOGHI EFFENDI
"...the dawn of a New Day shall break upon that land and the Rays of this
Divine Revelation shall make of India a spiritually-quickened, peaceful
and united country."--Shoghi Effendi, Jan. 9, 1923
BAHA'I PUBLISHING TRUST
POST BOX 19
NEW DELHI (India)
Note: The passages marked with a * are in Guardian's own handwriting.
(C) BAHA'I PUBLISHING TRUST, INDIA
Reprinted by
K.L. Sachdeva - for Skylark Printers,
479, Matia Mahal, Jama Masjid, Delhi-6
PREFACE
The sub-continent of India, favoured by special mention in the
Qayyumu'l-Asma, on the Day of the Declaration of the Bab, is a land of the
greatest spiritual potentialities. During the life time of Abdu'l-Baha a
steady stream of teachers from East and West arrived to establish the
Faith, and at the time of His passing, there was a sizeable community of
Baha'is in India. This was the community that grew into spiritual
maturity, expanded and developed under the unerring guidance of our
beloved Guardian who fostered its growth, ever beckoning it forward.
The Guardian summoned the believers to achieve great victories, local
movements and limited projects would not be commensurate with the
greatness of the Revelation of Baha'u'llah; he led them to self-sacrifice,
to big undertakings, and to bold ventures. Gradually, he brought to light
the vastness of the realm of service, pointing out the many races and
tribes that inhabited this land of ancient civilization and cradle of
important world religions. He gave instructions and plans to this
Community to take the healing Message of God to all these peoples and
tribes. Step by step, Shoghi Effendi guided the Community on how to plan
and organize a comprehensive teaching plan.
As far back as 1933, the beloved Guardian summoned the Baha'is of India to
teach among the masses, and to reach persons of capacity in every strata
of society. He guided us in every accomplishment, pointing out the
objectives, counselling and urging the completion of goals set for the
Community.
The reader will find for himself what great victories still remain to be
won and what great potentialities still remain hidden in India--"a vast
country and an excellent field of service". This book is for those,
anywhere in the world, who wish to arise individually and collectively to
establish the World Order of Baha'u'llah and the Kingdom of God on earth.
Dr. R. Muhajir
New Delhi,
March 9, 1970
LETTERS ADDRESSED TO THE N.S.A. OF INDIA
Letter to believers in India & Burmah
The beloved of the Lord and the handmaids of the
Merciful throughout India and Burmah,
Care of the members of the Spiritual Assembly.
Beloved co-workers in the Vineyard of God!
It has been my great pleasure and privilege to send you, since my return
to the Holy Land, first my general message of confidence and of love
addressed to all believers throughout the East, and later another letter
wherein I appeal in particular to those faithful lovers of His Cause in
that vast and distant dominion to labour whole-heartedly and to the very
end for the diffusion of His Light and the spread of His Cause.
Remembering, however, the few among my friends in that land who are as yet
unfamiliar with the Persian Tongue, I have thought of sending these few
lines to them in particular and through them to the rest of my brethren
and sisters in those regions who, despite the diversity of tongue, of race
and custom are all united at heart and animated by one common desire to
uplift humanity and carry out His Divine Purpose for this world.
What an alluring field of service India with all its possibilities unfolds
to our eyes at the present time and how vast are the opportunities of
sowing the seeds of unity and loving kindness in the hearts of its divers
peoples!
True, that land seems now unhappily to be plunged in the darkness of
prejudice, hate and mistrust, yet however dark the immediate prospect may
appear, our confidence remains unshaken that ere long these mists shall
clear away, the dawn of a New Day shall break upon that land and the Rays
of this Divine Revelation shall make of India a spiritually-quickened,
peaceful and united country.
The universal Teachings of Baha'u'llah if declared and propounded with
wisdom and judgement, determination, selflessness and sincerity, and above
all if exemplified in our lives and dealings with our fellow-men, cannot
fail to inspire and stimulate the mind of the enlightened seeker and win
the admiration and allegiance of all mankind. Ours then is the duty and
privilege to bring to the attention of this distressed and war-weary world
this Message of Eternal Salvation and help to establish the Era of Peace
and Brotherhood as purposed and foretold by Baha'u'llah.
The welcome news of the progress of the Third All-India Baha'i Convention
as well as the favourable comment made upon it by the Press of that
country have been fully shared with the pilgrims and resident friends in
the Holy Land and we have all admired and rejoiced at the efforts you are
exerting for the consolidation of the Movement in that ancient land.
May your endeavours in every sphere of your spiritual activities be
crowned with brilliant success, that His glorious Promise regarding the
future of that land may be speedily fulfilled!
It is my earnest hope that "The Baha'i News", the representative organ of
the Baha'i Community in India, may expand and develop, may widen the
sphere of its correspondence, add to the number and quality of its
articles in Persian as well as in English, report regularly in its columns
the news of the spiritual activities of all Baha'i centres in India and
elsewhere, and in general provide for the full, correct and dignified
presentation of the Cause to the general public.
Assuring every one of you of my constant prayers on your behalf and
wishing you success in your noble task,
I am your brother and co-worker,
SHOGHI
January 9, 1923
Excellent Field of Service
As you mentioned India is a vast country and an excellent field of
service. If the younger Baha'i generation, in whom Shoghi Effendi has
great hopes, take the pain 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. May we all
hope and earnestly pray that through God's infinite grace, through the
Master's spiritual guidance and through Shoghi Effendi's tender care we
may do justice to this tremendous work and not fail to do the Master's
bidding.
As Shoghi Effendi has not yet taken up the tremendous work and
responsibility of attending to the correspondence of the individual
friends, he asked me to write you this note, acknowledge the receipt of
your letter, and ask you to do the following things: (1) Change the name
of your Executive Committee to "The National Spiritual Assembly", because
the corresponding Assembly in England and America bear the same name, and
uniformity in such matters is most advisable. (2) He likes to receive
regular and detailed reports of the position of the Cause as well as the
activities of the friends in India drafted as well as sent by the
Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly. So as to be informed of the
conditions there and administer to your needs. (3) He wishes to have the
postal as well as telegraphic address of the secretary so as to send his
communications to him.
Shoghi Effendi earnestly hopes and prays that this National Spiritual
Assembly will be able to achieve a great deal and herald a new era of
spiritual awakening in that land.
April 26, 1923
Position of Baha'i Women
[From the Guardian:]
Regarding the position of the Baha'i women in India and Burma, and their
future collaboration with the men in the administrative work of the Cause,
I feel that the time is now ripe that those women who have already
conformed to the prevailing custom in India and Burma by discarding the
veil should not only be given the right to vote for the election of their
local and national representatives, but should themselves be eligible to
the membership of all Baha'i Assemblies throughout India and Burma, be
they local or national.
This definite and most important step, however, should be taken with the
greatest care and caution, prudence and thoughtfulness. Due regard must be
paid to their actual capacity and present attainments, and only those who
are best qualified for membership, be they men or women, and irrespective
of social standing, should be elected to the extremely responsible
position of a member of the Baha'i Assembly.
This momentous decision, I trust, will prove to be a great incentive to
the women Baha'is throughout India and Burma who, I hope, will now bestir
themselves and endeavour to the best of their ability to acquire a better
and more profound knowledge of the Cause, to take a more active and
systematic part in the general affairs of the Movement, and prove
themselves in every way enlightened, responsible and efficient co-workers
to their fellow-men in their common task for the advancement of the Cause
throughout their country.
May they fully realise their high responsibilities in this day, may they
do all in their power to justify the high hopes we cherish for their
future, and may they prove themselves in every respect worthy of the noble
mission which the Baha'i world is now entrusting to their charge.
December 27, 1923
The Baha'i News
[From the Guardian:]
Your long-awaited letter, penned by our dear and devoted brother, Mr. N.
R. Vakil, has been received and read with profound interest. I note with
deep satisfaction the vigour and earnestness with which you are conducting
the affairs of the Movement throughout the length and breadth of that vast
and distant land, and ardently pray that you may achieve, individually and
collectively, the highest success in all your endeavours.
Regarding the Baha'i News, I strongly urge those responsible for its
publication, and in particular, our beloved friends, Prof. Pritam Singh,
Mr. Vakil, ... Mr. M. U. Abasi, Mirza Niku, Mr. Ardeshir Khodadad, and
Haji Ahmad, to do their utmost that this Baha'i organ may increase in
volume, widen in scope, broaden in its outlook, improve in style and
general presentation, and reflect more extensively the activities of the
friends in India, Burma, and elsewhere. As a magazine that has been
established in the days of our departed Master, and been the recipient of
His special favours and blessings, it ought, and I have no doubt it will,
with your active support and under your constant and general supervision,
carry out the great plan it is destined to fulfill in this world.
With regard to Burma and its Baha'i activities, I trust you realise that
that province falls directly within the sphere of your activities, and
although a Central Council for all Burma is in the process of
establishment, that Council as well as all local Assemblies throughout
Burma will have to be under the protection, care and direction of the
All-India Spiritual Assembly.
I would indeed welcome regular, frequent and comprehensive reports from
the National Assembly on the various branches of its manifold activities,
and will spare no effort to contribute my humble share in consolidating
and extending the Teaching Campaign throughout that vast Dominion.
I would be pleased to receive the permanent postal and telegraphic address
of the Secretary of the National Assembly, and am confident that by the
grace of Baha'u'llah and under the guiding Hand of our beloved Master, we
shall all carry triumphantly the noble task entrusted to our charge to a
speedy and successful conclusion.
June 1, 1923
An Era of Unprecedented Activity
[From the Guardian:]
It is a great pleasure and privilege for me to renew the bonds of
fellowship and affection that have always united our hearts in the service
of our beloved Master. I need not recall to your minds the warm and
abiding place which that gifted Dominion has always occupied in our
Beloved's heart, and the high hopes he cherished for its future
contribution towards the triumph of the Movement in those distant regions
of the earth.
I am sure the hour has struck when those dearly-beloved pioneers of the
Master's Cause, scattered throughout the length and breadth of that vast
and promising land, should unite, consolidate their forces, and
effectively combine for the laying of a firm foundation for the future
progress of their noble task. It is my earnest hope and my most cherished
desire that at the forthcoming Convention the vigour and enlightened
efforts of the Baha'i youth of India, coupled with the generous support
and devotion of the old beloved Parsee friends, and reinforced by the vast
numbers of the ardent followers of the Faith in Burma, may, by imparting
power and brilliancy to its proceedings, herald an era of unprecedented
activity for the ultimate recognition of the Cause by the peoples of that
country.
I shall welcome with genuine satisfaction every effort which that talented
and untiring servant of Baha'u'llah, our highly-esteemed sister Mrs.
Stannard, may exert in this connection, and would feel truly gratified to
learn of her determination to play a conspicuous part in the presentation
of the Cause to the eyes of the enlightened public. May the sustaining
grace of God, the power of Baha'u'llah, and the loving counsels of our
beloved 'Abdu'l-Baha guide you and aid you in your mighty endeavours for
the accomplishment of your task.
I shall eagerly await any particulars you might wish to send me regarding
your various activities in the service of the Cause, and I trust that
during the interval between now and Ridvan a complete and careful
arrangement for the successful conduct of the coming Convention will have
been drawn by all the friends and assemblies of India and Burma, and to
which, I assure you, I shall be most pleased to contribute my humble share
of cooperation and advice.
Hoping to hear from you, individually and collectively, and assuring you
of my constant prayers on your behalf.
December 5, 1923
Nothing Must Dampen Our Zeal
Nothing, I dare say, can be more encouraging and gladsome to Shoghi
Effendi than the news of the activities of the friends in such a vast and
promising field as India. In the last few years the harvest of the
friends' endeavours was not as rich and abundant as we all would wish and
undoubtedly the political throes through which India has been passing and
the general unrest which such conditions have brought about, account to a
large measure for this comparative unfruitfulness in the self-sacrificing
efforts of the Indian Baha'is. Yet nothing must damp our zeal and we
cannot for a moment doubt the remarkable change that the Master said would
take place in that country.
We have been all very much interested in the first-hand information which
Mrs. Stannard has given us and we lament the formidable difficulties and
obstacles with which the Baha'is must cope in their effort to imbue the
individual with a new spirit and to bring new measures of reform in the
social order. We shall, however, pray for you all and eagerly await every
good news you have to share with us.
[From the Guardian:]
I always eagerly await detailed and frequent reports from the National
Assembly and desire strongly its members to meet as often as possible and
actively, efficiently and constantly direct, co-ordinate and reinforce the
activities of the individuals and Local Assemblies throughout India and
Burma. I thirst for more specific information and urge its secretary to
ensure that every communication from the Holy Land or from any other
Baha'i centre is promptly and widely distributed. I assure you of my
loving prayers.
March 5, 1925
Unite in Promoting the Work of the Cause
We were sorry to know of the state of tension that exists between India
and Burma. Let us hope that Shoghi Effendi's letter will draw both parties
nearer together and so ease up the matter. It is very sad to see two
sections of such a continent though closely connected together, unable to
work in harmony. Let us pray and also try our best that all petty
misunderstandings should be forgotten and that the work should start on a
new basis firmer than before.
[From the Guardian:]
I do hope and pray that the Indians and Burmese friends will once the new
N.S.A. is elected support their representatives and whole-heartedly unite
in promoting the work of the Cause. An earnest, capable, energetic, loyal
and experienced soul must discharge the responsible and arduous duties of
a National Secretary. So much depends upon him. You will have my fullest
and unqualified support in impressing upon the friends the supreme
necessity of establishing forthwith and maintaining to the best of their
ability the institution of the National Fund. I will pray for you all and
assure you personally of my great affection.
April 1, 1925
Consolidation of the Foundations of the N.S.A.
By now the election of the new National Spiritual Assembly and of its
office-bearers will probably be completed. The office of Secretary of the
National Spiritual Assembly is most important and the smooth and efficient
working of the Baha'i organisation in India and Burmah will depend to a
large extent on him. Shoghi Effendi hopes that the new Secretary of the
National Assembly will send him as soon as possible a full list of the
members and office-bearers of the Assembly with his own postal address. He
would like him also, as soon as possible, to procure from each of the
local assemblies in India and Burmah a full list of the members and
office-bearers of the Local Spiritual Assembly with the address of the
Secretary, and to transmit a copy of that list to Shoghi Effendi. This is
to be done every year immediately after the election of the National
Spiritual Assembly.
Further it is desirable that each local Assembly should have a register of
the names and addresses of all declared Baha'is in their district and
should be careful to keep the register up-to-date, promptly noting any
changes in the address or number of the believers. It is also desirable
that the National Secretary should have a list of all believers in India
and Burmah who are living in districts where there is no Local Spiritual
Assembly, with full postal address in each case, so that these believers
may be kept in touch with the body of believers by letters, literature
etc., and travelling Baha'is visiting these districts may be put in touch
with the believers there. Shoghi Effendi would like to have a copy of this
list also.
The National Secretary should keep in as close touch as possible with the
Local Spiritual Assemblies, should urge the secretaries of these Local
Assemblies to furnish regular reports of the progress of the movement in
their respective localities, and should, by means of circular letters
etc., keep these local assemblies and isolated believers informed of all
matters of importance affecting the Cause, remind them of the importance
of contributing as regularly and generously as possible to the National
Fund, and so on.
It is obvious that to carry out these manifold duties efficiently,
thoroughly and tactfully is no easy task and Shoghi Effendi greatly hopes
that some one may be found who will be able to devote the necessary
ability, time and energy to carry them out satisfactorily.
A Baha'i Year Book is now in course of preparation and Shoghi Effendi
wishes to include in this Year-Book a complete list of the local Spiritual
Assemblies throughout the world, with the address of the Secretary in each
case, also a complete list of those localities where there are resident
Baha'is but where no local Spiritual Assembly exists. It will probably be
impracticable to include the addresses of all isolated believers, but
these should be known to the Secretary of the National Spiritual Assembly
in each country, so that they may be available on application to him.
It will interest you to know that the Baha'is of Egypt have just elected
their first National Spiritual Assembly.
[From the Guardian:]
Your past and present efforts are indeed worthy of the deepest admiration
and the highest praise. Concentrate as much as you can at present on the
consolidation of the foundations of the N.S.A. of India and Burma. This is
the first and most essential step to further expansion in any direction.
The institution of the National Fund is of vital importance and should be
greatly stressed and emphasized in every circular or communication
addressed to the friends. I will continue to pray for you from all my
heart and assure you of my support and brotherly love.
May 12, 1925
The House of Baha'u'llah in Baghdad
Yesterday he ordered me to write a few words and acknowledge the receipt
of your letter, conveying to you his love and greeting. He was much
pleased to see that you have followed his telegraphic instructions
concerning the Baghdad House promptly.
From other centres also telegraphic communications have been done to both
the High Commissioner and to His Majesty King Faisal. We are hoping for a
desirable result. Up to this time no definite information has reached us.
We shall keep you informed as soon as we receive any.
[From the Guardian:]
The prompt and effective measures you have taken are worthy of the highest
praise. I will inform you if further action is deemed necessary. I hope
and pray your devoted efforts will yield abundant fruit in the near
future.
November 18, 1925
Inaugurate a Fresh Campaign of Teaching
Shoghi Effendi prays for all of you and hopes that through your practical
devotion, you will all attract divine assistance more and more day by day
and so this coming year the Cause of God will make unprecedented progress
in that country. He sends you and all the members of the National
Spiritual Assembly his affectionate greeting and expects your good news
regularly.
[From the Guardian:]
I pray that your newly constituted National Spiritual Assembly may grow
from strength to strength, may co-ordinate and consolidate the
ever-expanding activities of the friends in India and Burma and inaugurate
a fresh campaign of Teaching that will redound to the glory and power of
the Most Great Name.
May the projected Congress at Cawnpore attract widespread interest and
stimulate the work undertaken by the friends in that promising country. I
assure you of my best wishes for your success.
November 24, 1925
Increasing Activities
It is always a source of immeasurable joy and encouragement to our dear
Guardian to learn of your increasing activities in serving our dear Cause
and also of the growing measure of success which you are meeting with in
all your endeavours. The unity of the friends in India and Burma, the
spread of the Cause in that vast country and especially among the real
natives, intelligent connections with the universities and schools and the
direction of the thoughts of the students to a proper understanding of the
Cause and its great mission on earth, will not only be real accomplishment
on the part of our dear fellow-workers but will relieve to a very large
extent our dear Guardian of the stupendous task that he shoulders, and
will give him the deepest joy and confidence. We earnestly trust that
through the help of our dear Master from on high all your efforts will be
crowned with success.
Shoghi Effendi is always interested to hear from you on the work in India
and to help you in every possible way.
You are, I am sure, in touch with Mr. Horace Holley in America and you
would be interested to know that they are publishing soon a Baha'i Year
Book which will be of widespread interest not only to the Baha'is but also
to many interested men and women in our dear Cause.
Mrs. Stannard is very successful in her work in Geneva and she has already
started a fine center there. She is able to make many connections with
influential men and learned people and this is in itself a great work.
[From the Guardian:]
I am very pleased and gratified to learn of your persistent efforts in
advancing and consolidating the Cause. The establishment of a Central
Office in Delhi is a great step forward and I await very eagerly the first
issue of the publication of the National Spiritual Assembly of India &
Burma. The Burmese friends are very satisfied and pleased with the
consideration shown and the activity displayed by your Assembly and my
prayer is that the relations of the National Body with the local
Assemblies will grow firmer everyday. I will specially remember the
friends who are promoting the Cause among the Qadiyani community whenever
I visit the Shrines. I wish them the fullest success.
March 27, 1926
Bring Together the Hindus and Mohammedans
Shoghi Effendi received your letter dated June 11th and was very glad to
see the result of the election of the National Spiritual Assembly. He
sincerely hopes that this year will witness a great change and progress
for the Cause in India. As the friends are sincere in their love and
devotion, the members of the Assembly strong in their faith and unfailing
in their services, there is full assurance of an ultimate victory and
final settlement of the existing difficulties. Shoghi Effendi has great
hopes in you personally and trusts in your wise judgment, watchful
attentiveness and absolute assurance in the Cause you serve. He wants me
to assure you of his prayers.
He also hopes that the friends in India will do their very best to bring
together the Hindus and Mohammedans. In such cases the friends can show
their good-will, devotion to humanity, and disinterestedness in the
material result obtained. He will pray that ... Prof. Pritam Singh will be
guided in this undertaking and ably represent the spirit of the Cause as
well as its teachings. Being competent themselves and having the necessary
divine blessing and guidance it is sure that they will achieve much. May
be this will be a good chance for attracting the attention of some of the
prominent leaders to the reality of the Cause.
[From the Guardian:]
I have written in person to the Bombay Assembly and urged them most
emphatically to support morally and financially the National Assembly and
the National Fund. ...We have to repeat and repeat over and over again
until the truth, the necessity and the urgency of our Beloved's
instructions sink in the hearts and minds of the believers. I am sure you
will continue to remind the friends of their primary obligations. Assuring
you again of my prayers for your success in your high endeavours.
July 10, 1926
Cause Will Ultimately Conquer
'Abdu'l-Baha used often to say that the difference between a prophet and
an ordinary person is that the latter looks only to the present. He does
not try to imagine the future victories and thereby forget the present
trivial obstructions. The prophet, however, having a deep insight in the
future condition of things sees his ultimate victory and does not get
disheartened even though he sees a whole-sale massacre of his followers.
As Baha'is we should follow the prophet's method. We know that the Cause
will ultimately conquer and its ranks be fully united. We know that the
Master's promises will ultimately be realized, therefore why be
discouraged by trivial oppositions we see on our way. We should rather add
to our zeal and persist in our prayers and endeavours... It always takes
time for a people to change from one administration to another. Up to the
present they have been accustomed to think of the local assemblies as next
only to the Center of the Cause, and it will take some time and training
before they can admit another superior.
[From the Guardian:]
I have cabled to Bombay and will soon confirm it by letter. I have urged
them to support consistently and whole-heartedly the very essential and
vital institutions of the National Fund and the National Assembly. It must
be made clear to them all that continuous support to these twin
institutions is the corner-stone of all future achievements, the
mainspring from which all future blessings will flow. Persevere in your
heroic effort and remember that the end is glorious and bright.
September 7, 1926
I take pleasure in thanking you on behalf of our dear Guardian, Shoghi
Effendi, for your letter...
As it announced the election of a new body to take up the responsible but
lofty work of supervising and guiding the promulgation of the Baha'i Cause
throughout India and Burma, Shoghi Effendi wishes me to take this
opportunity and assure each and every member of that distinguished body
not only of his heartfelt congratulations and prayers but also of the high
hopes that he cherishes for you all. It is from you and through you that
he expects to see emanating that glorious spirit for which our departed
Master gave his entire life; and with your earnest endeavours, your
consummate wisdom and your unflinching faith he awaits to see you lead the
humble workers of that great country to an ultimate victory.
May I also take this opportunity and express the great desire of Shoghi
Effendi that the National Assembly should try to be in close communication
with him. To him it is a joy beyond words to try to do all in his power to
help you in the noble work you have undertaken.
[From the Guardian:]
Now that the N.S.A. has been properly constituted and its officers duly
appointed, it is incumbent upon each and all to introduce and promote such
measures as will consolidate the work that you have so well begun. The
institution of the National Fund, a Baha'i Bulletin similar to the News
Letter issued by the American N.S.A., a rigorous and well-conceived
campaign of Teaching, a continuous and purposeful endeavour to coordinate
the activities of the local Assemblies and groups throughout India and
Burma and the sending of detailed and frequent reports to the Holy Land
are among the most primary and urgent requirements of the new day that has
dawned upon India. I eagerly await your reports and assure you of my
continued prayers for the success of your arduous labours.
October 28, 1926
Publication of Kaukab
The news that the difficulties, which for a time prevailed and threatened
grave disturbances between the N.S.A. and the Local Assemblies, have
vanished, was a source of great satisfaction and gratification to him. We
were quite sure that it was all due to misunderstandings and that they
would be easily overcome...
In a letter which I have lately written to Seyed Jenabe Ali on behalf of
Shoghi Effendi, I intimated his desire that a special committee of the
N.S.A. should be created to undertake the management of everything
pertaining to the Kaukab. Furthermore, if a certain sum is offered to the
National Fund with the expressed desire that it should be spent for the
Kaukab, i.e., if the offer is labelled, then the N.S.A. should take into
consideration the wish of the giver and spend it only for that purpose.
Though the friends are advised to give unlabelled contributions they
cannot in any way be prevented from using their choice in the way it
should be spent.
Though the Local Assemblies should give the N.S.A. all the moral and
financial support the latter needs, it is the duty of the N.S.A. to
inspire the necessary confidence in keeping the management of its work as
efficiently as possible.
In a cable recently sent to the N.S.A. Shoghi Effendi recommended the
publication of the Kaukab. He desires this paper to play an important role
in drawing the attention of the more thoughtful and seeking people to the
potency of this divine Cause. I herein enclose a cheque for L19 which
Shoghi Effendi desires to be spent for this all important organ of the
Cause in India.
[From the Guardian:]
I am enclosing a general message, clearly worded, emphatically expressed,
and vitally important in all its bearings, conveyed through Mirza Mahmood
to the National Assembly for the information of all Baha'is in India and
Burma. I am sure you will promptly and effectively take all necessary
measures for its dissemination throughout India and Burma. The 'Kaukab'
must, at all costs be continued, and I feel that its two editors ... are
the most suitable to form a committee which will conduct its affairs under
the direct supervision of the National Assembly. Whatever is contributed
to the National Assembly for a specific purpose should be expended for
that purpose only, but I would encourage the friends to send unlabelled
contributions in order not to tie the hands of the National Assembly
although I do not in the least require them to do so. I will pray for your
success from all my heart.
November 16, 1926
The Baha'i News
It is most gratifying to him to hear that the difficulties that darkened
the horizon of the Cause in India have vanished and the National as well
as Local Assemblies are united to further the interests of the Cause. He
hopes that Kaukab will become a Baha'i organ administered even better than
before.
Shoghi Effendi hopes that Aqa Mirza Moneer will cause another stir in
India and draw many individuals into a full understanding of the movement.
His zeal as well as knowledge of the Cause stand to his credit and are
sure to win him success wherever he goes. Please convey to him Shoghi
Effendi's loving greetings and assure him of his prayers.
[From the Guardian:]
I hope to hear soon of the re-establishment and circulation of the Kaukab.
The matter of the publication of a Baha'i News Letter issued by the
National Assembly is also of utmost importance. May the support to the
National Fund be such as to render it a truly worthy and representative
Baha'i periodical. Persevere in your splendid efforts and do not lose
heart for I will continue to pray for you from the depth of my heart.
December 21, 1926
Widen the Scope of Activities
With the opening of this new Baha'i year our Guardian trusts that it will
be marked by a new and greater effort, by a more intense cooperation among
the friends in India and Burma and by an unsurpassed record of success.
Now that Mrs. Schopflocker has in many places broken the ground, it
devolves upon the faithful workers in India to follow up the work, to
seize every opportunity and to give to her hasty and in many places
insufficient services a more permanent and lasting character.
I express the hopes of our Guardian without disregard to your many
problems and difficulties, but the field is so vast and the ground so
fresh and fertile that it cannot but evoke almost unreasonable
expectations. This feeling and yearning, I am sure, is much more yours
than ours could be.
[From the Guardian:]
I urge you to take every means at your disposal ... to follow up the work
that has been so splendidly begun by Mrs. Schopflocker. I would also urge
you to arrange for the preparation of an annual report by the National
Assembly of the activities of the friends in India and Burma, to be
forwarded to the American National Spiritual Assembly for insertion in the
next issue of the Annual Baha'i Year Book. A representative group
photograph of the Baha'is of divers races and creeds in that land would
also greatly enhance the Year Book, if such a thing is possible.
April 25, 1927
He is very glad to learn of the good work of Nabilzadeh and Mrs.
Schopflocker and hopes that the friends will follow up their work in order
to obtain some definite and permanent results. For a teacher to fly from
one end of India to another is not sufficient, there must be somebody who
can stay long enough in one place and start regular gatherings.
The latter function naturally falls upon the friends in India and he
earnestly hopes that the new year may bring fresh and lasting
achievements.
Shoghi Effendi awaits eagerly the results of the election of the N.S.A.
and he should like to see that body accomplish something more than routine
work. They should take new steps and carry out a regular campaign in India
and Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
It is my hope and prayer that the newly-elected National and Local
Assemblies may widen the scope of their activities, initiate new and
valuable measures, extend the circle of their correspondence with foreign
Baha'i centres, and promote the independence and distinctiveness of the
Baha'i Faith. I would urge you to inform the Year Book Committee through
Mr. Holley of the results of all elections in India and to send if
possible an annual report to that Committee. Wishing you success and
happiness.
May 24, 1927
In the midst of his work and many responsibilities, it is a source of
comfort for him to feel that the initiative and guidance of the Cause in
India is in such able hands and he trusts to see in the near future
greater and fuller results.
True, the minds of many are turned away from all that sounds religious,
but it is only because they are ill-advised as to the meaning of true
religion and it is just that mission that devolves upon us--to give a new
viewpoint, to revive fresh hopes and to guide by the sacred utterances the
thoughts and actions of mankind.
Perhaps India has not yet reached the high mark which our hopes have made
us expect, but the time still remains and the hopes of our Guardian are
anxiously turned to the educated, sincere and zealous fellow-brothers he
so much loves in India and Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
I have received lately your second letter dated June 10th enclosing the
list of the members of the newly-elected Indian Assemblies as well as the
report of the receipts and expenditures of the National Fund. Your loyal
and untiring attention to the pressing manifold requirements of our
beloved and steadily expanding Cause is a thing never-to-be forgotten and
worthy of unqualified praise. I trust you will continue to keep in touch
with the American National Assembly whose Secretary is only too anxious to
incorporate in the newsletter and the Year Book every bit of news
regarding the progress of the Faith in India & Burma.
July 14, 1927
Conduct of the Work of N.S.A.
He is very glad indeed to hear of the interview of Mr. Nabilzadeh with the
Governor of Burma. He will pray that the seeds he has sown will germinate
in the course of time and will prove of great benefit to our beloved
Cause.
Our Guardian hopes that henceforth the secretaries of all local and
national Assemblies will immediately upon their election inform the
American National Assembly of their membership and the address, that the
results may without delay be published in the Baha'i Year Book.
Our Guardian will not cease to pray for you all that the Beloved may guide
you to achieve that which will conduce to the consolidation and extension
of the influence of the Cause.
[From the Guardian:]
I trust the newly-elected Assembly will endeavour to follow the example of
the American National Assembly in method, action, and procedure. The
American Newsletter will indicate clearly the lines along which Baha'i
National Assemblies are to conduct their work in future and I earnestly
urge you to encourage the friends to follow and adopt the method outlined
in its columns.
August 19, 1927
Extend the Scope of Activities
For a country like India and also Burma where the Baha'i communities are
so much scattered and are of varied extraction a common centre to
coordinate the different efforts and to link up together both the
Assemblies within India and in the various parts of the world, is also ...
necessary, and our Guardian hopes and trusts to see in time great results
from this new measure. Of course much depends upon how well this organ
functions.
Shoghi Effendi is in good health having taken a good rest during the
summer. He awaits as much as ever the good news of the friends in India
and above all news of real accomplishment.
[From the Guardian:]
I hope that nothing has transpired of late that might have in any manner
affected the expansion of the work in those regions. I fully realize your
single-handedness in such a vast and varied field, but I assure you,
dearest friend, that your reward is proportionately great, for He that
watches over you is aware of the great devotion which animates you in the
pursuit of your arduous and noble task.
November 1, 1927
[Letter of November 16, 1927]
Your frequent communications keeping him in close touch with your
activities and the work in India, are deeply appreciated, and he relies
much upon your efforts to coordinate the work in India and to have more
direct and material results than we have been accustomed to lately. When
compared to some other countries and remembering the many years since the
Cause was first known there, India, I am afraid, does not come up to
expectations. Are we going to accept this secondary position or has the
future a surprise in store? At any rate we patiently wait.
November 16, 1927
[Letter of May 6, 1928]
He was greatly pleased with the news of the work of Prof. Pritam Singh in
Karachi and Lahore and he read his well-worded lectures with interest. It
gives him immense pleasure to keep in touch with his activities and he
prays for the success of his efforts from the bottom of his heart. He is
confident that when his plans are carried out and he does travel
throughout the whole of India in the interests of the Cause, he will show
a record of constant progress and would have rendered valuable services to
the Baha'i Faith. Please assure him of our Guardian's unfailing prayers
and good wishes and also kindly convey to the Amritsar Baha'is the loving
greetings of Shoghi Effendi...
I am sure it will interest you to know that we have had during the Ridwan
festivals the first Baha'i pilgrim from Tunis. The representative of the
Tunis Assembly is a young man full of hopes and schemes for the future.
[From the Guardian:]
I will specially supplicate, on behalf of my dear brethren in India &
Burma, at the Beloved's Shrine, that they may arise with heart and soul
and in perfect harmony and understanding to extend the scope of their
activities, to consolidate the foundations of their work, to deepen their
knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of the Faith, and to carry
out the Beloved's explicit instructions for the establishment of
Baha'u'llah's undisputed sovereignty on this earth. May they be richly
blessed and guided in their endeavours.
May 6, 1928
[Letter of June 22, 1928]
Among the subjects that the Guardian would expect your body to take are a
coordination of the various efforts and endeavours throughout India and
Burma, an acceleration and increase in the number of Baha'is and
fellow-workers, ways and means to attract the attention of Indians from
every class and creed to the message and vital dynamic spirit of the
Baha'i Faith and as a cumulative and culminating step the final
recognition of the Baha'i Community as a separate religious organization
similar to what has been already achieved in America.
June 22, 1928
[Letter of August 21, 1928]
The news that we obtain from the various parts of the world are most
gratifying, for though there are some great problems to solve, yet no one
can fail to see the constant realization of those ideals we cherish. May
that day soon dawn when the source of this spiritual power, which is
permeating the whole of society, will be appreciated and venerated.
August 21, 1928
Present the Teachings at Various Conventions & Gatherings
This is to acknowledge the receipt of your letter ... reporting the events
of the Brahmo Samaj Centenary gathering to Shoghi Effendi. Such meetings
are wonderful occasions for showing the spirit and teachings of the
Cause.... Shoghi Effendi's hope is that at such Conventions and gatherings
the friends would present the teachings to persons otherwise inaccessible
for individual contact.
[From the Guardian:]
I heartily approve the project of a Baha'i Convention and would leave the
choice of the site and other arrangements to the National Assembly. The
Cause in various countries is making a great headway and the reference of
the case of the Baghdad House to the Mandates Commission of the League of
Nations is a great step forward.
October 10, 1928
The Faith Publicized in Turkey
He was glad to hear from you and he has read with deep satisfaction the
account of the good work of Syed Ilmi in Burma. Shoghi Effendi has always
wondered as to the reasons why despite so many years of effort and
activity, the Cause has not spread more rapidly either in India or Burma,
perhaps the latter can be more proud of its results. He would in fact
appreciate your own personal opinion, although God's ways are often hard
to understand. We have lately had a remarkable illustration in Turkey
where the Baha'is were an insignificant little group. Suddenly accused of
constituting a secret political society the members of the N.S.A. in
Constantinople and the S.A. in Smyrna were dragged to the police and kept
for one night pending the formation of the Board of Inquiry. The next day
the court sat and the president of the N.S.A. was cross-examined for eight
consecutive hours. The result was that they were all dismissed, with the
members of the Court deeply influenced and impressed by the teachings and
principles which the President boldly and eloquently described. They asked
for literature and many of them carried from that session much food for
thought. Furthermore every paper in Turkey filled its front pages with the
incident and a repetition of the teachings and good many a Turk heard of
the Cause in a way that Baha'is could never bring about.
[From the Guardian:]
I trust and pray that circumstances will be favourable and the means
provided for the holding of a Baha'i convention this year representative
of India and Burma. A closer touch and more frequent interchange of
thought among the Baha'i Centres in those lands are absolutely essential.
I am sending you a copy of the recently issued "Baha'i World", and wish
you to urge the National and Local Assemblies in India & Burma to order as
many copies as they possibly can from America for distribution among the
enlightened public as well as a means for the assistance and encouragement
of the Baha'i Publishing Committee in New York which is doing excellent
service at the present time.
November 15, 1928 Assemblies Must Endeavour to Inspire Confidence
Although I had never meant that my enquiry from you as to the reasons of
lack of progress of the Cause in India, should be asked from every
individual Baha'i, yet I am sure, our Guardian will be interested to know
the ideas and opinions of various sections of the friends both in India
and Burma.
The expression of our views in written form sometimes helps us to think
better and deeper and often brings various matters into proper
perspective, enabling us thereby to disregard what is extraneous and
unimportant. The answers to the question put forth, would, I feel, be
extremely valuable to the N.S.A. in India, and with the proper backing,
respect and support of the entire friends, they should not lose a minute
in an endeavour to remedy and inspire what ought not and what should be
done, in an effort to spread the Cause.
[From the Guardian:]
I trust that the forthcoming Convention will remedy most if not all the
present deficiencies in the Cause and lend an unprecedented impetus to the
progress of the Faith. The Teaching work should be stressed as it is the
Fountain-head from which all future blessings will flow. We must first and
foremost add to our small numbers, and introduce fresh blood into the
organic life of the community. I will specially supplicate this bounty for
the representative delegates to be assembled at Convention this year.
December 19, 1928
Maintain and Strengthen the Unity of the National Assembly
He was very glad to hear of the success of the Convention. He hopes that
such gatherings will become yearly and, like in other countries, lead to a
better understanding among the friends. It is surely true that as the
Cause progresses differences will more and more arise. So unless there be
a meeting place where the different views are thrashed, true unity of
purpose and activity will not be obtained.
Just as much as the result of the Convention made him happy he was sorry
to hear of the differences that exist between the N.S.A. members. The real
source of the difficulty is, I believe, the lack of constant intercourse
between the different members. As the country is so very vast meetings
cannot be very frequent and well attended, and this ultimately leads to
misunderstandings and lack of faith in each other. Shoghi Effendi knows
the different individuals involved, he knows their integrity and faith in
the Cause and its spirit. He is sure that they, each and all, have no
other purpose but to serve the progress of the movement and uphold its
interests. And they will surely not commit an act that would retard the
very Cause they are serving. What the solution is, I do not know. What
Shoghi Effendi has been hoping during the last two or three years is a
spirit of mutual trust that would overcome physical handicaps. But that
seems to be impossible. A lurking dissatisfaction is sure to appear at the
end.
[From the Guardian:]
Your subsequent letter dated Jan. 24 has also reached me. I will specially
remember our dear and valued co-worker Prof. Pritam Singh when I visit the
sacred Shrine that the spirit of Baha'u'llah may inspire, guide and
sustain him in his great task. Regarding your last convention and the
non-participation of the Burma delegates, I feel that the utmost effort
must be exerted during the coming elections in April to elect those who
are best fitted for this supreme and responsible position, and once
elected, resignation is not to be accepted. The members must meet and
consult in person. Persia is preparing for the holding of national
elections, and for India and Burma to revert to a system that is being
abandoned by the Persian believers would be a decidedly retrograde step.
We must at all costs maintain and strengthen the unity of the National
Assembly. Everything must be subordinated to this end. I will supplicate
our Beloved to enable you to achieve His purpose.
February 12, 1929
It is his sincere hope and desire to see the newly-elected National
Assembly during its term of office, infuse a new and fresh spirit into
every Baha'i activity both in India and Burma, and while establishing
perfect unity and harmony within its own ranks and the entire body of the
believers, should take vigorous steps to teach the Cause and to establish
a progressive and representative Baha'i community in both countries.
June 20, 1929
With regard to your proposal that the N.S.A. should meet once in Burma and
once in India, the Guardian wishes me to record his hearty approval and to
even suggest that if it should be feasible they should meet even more
often than that in both places.
It is his sincere hope that in this manner and through the individual
effort of every member the misunderstandings existing between India and
Burma will be wiped out altogether and that a fresh start will be made in
a spirit of true and whole-hearted accord.
July 8, 1929
He hopes that the new National Assembly will do its utmost to bring about
unity in its group and among the friends. For, as he has often stated, the
work of the Cause will remain cramped unless that unity is obtained. The
petty differences that do exist are the result of misunderstandings and
these can surely be eliminated.
August 20, 1929
"Baha'i World"--Foremost Baha'i Publication
I write on behalf of the Guardian to remind you that the next issue of the
'Baha'i World' will soon appear and its editors are already busy compiling
material.
He has been asked by the editors in America to request you please to make
a special effort to contribute as much material as you possibly can in the
form of photographs, reports, accounts, and individual articles; and to
send them as soon as possible to America in order that a work which the
Guardian considers our foremost Baha'i publication in the world, may be as
representative of the many countries and especially Eastern peoples as we
would all wish it to be.
December 15, 1929
"Huquq"
...As regards "Huquq", it is really 19 per cent of one's income payable to
the Guardian. But it is not obligatory now.
December 19, 1929
Syed Jenab Ali--Distinguished Baha'i Leader
He was very sorry to learn of the illness of Syed Jenab Ali and since the
receipt of your letter, he has been extremely grieved to learn of his
passing. His sudden departure throws a shadow of gloom upon all of us here
and in India and while Burma loses a distinguished and truly earnest
Baha'i leader, it must be especially unfortunate to you that just at a
time when you were considering and preparing the ground for Government
Recognition and a temporary consideration of Baha'i laws, you were
deprived of his valued cooperation. The Cause in India is as yet in such a
tender age that we can ill afford the loss of those few that keep the
torch aflame.
[From the Guardian:]
The news of the passing of our dear and able friend and collaborator Syed
Jenab Ali has brought profound sorrow to our hearts. He leaves a great gap
behind him. I hope that the friends far from feeling disheartened and
discouraged at such a great loss will arise and redouble their efforts in
order to compensate for the loss which they have sustained. Kindly assure
his relatives of my deep grief, and my prayers for his departed soul.
January 6, 1930
Martha Root Visits India
...Miss Root is at present in Tehran and she does not know just how long
she will stay, but surely before leaving for India she would inform you of
her plans in time.
It is such a pity that Mr. Vakil is unwell. He is a man we cannot spare
just as the passing of Syed Jenab Ali leaves a serious gap in Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
Miss Root will soon be with you, and I trust her visit may lend a fresh
impetus to your work of consolidation and spread of the Cause. I will
continue to pray for your efforts and activities from the depths of my
heart. Be not disheartened. Persevere in your labours and rest assured
that the Beloved will richly reward those who stand firm in the Faith, and
those who persevere in their endeavours.
March 1, 1930
Miss Root has been delayed by the enthusiastic reception she has received
in Persia and she is now planning to visit southern and eastern Persia
where she has not yet been. We hope her visit to India will prove of some
value in attracting the attention of the intelligent classes among the
non-Baha'is, but perhaps the political agitation will entirely defeat that
purpose at the present time.
April 26, 1930
He was very glad to hear of the activities of Miss Martha Root in India
and hopes that they will all bear some wonderful fruits for the progress
of the Cause in India. It is sure that with the existence of the present
political unrest in that country few are ready to pay any attention to
religious matters, but among the very intelligent people there are
undoubtedly people whose vision extends further than the present
difficulties and desire a spiritual rebirth for that much divided and
troubled nation. To these the Baha'i teachings should undoubtedly present
a much desired reform movement. Anyhow Shoghi Effendi hopes that with the
help of Miss Root you have been able to approach such eminent persons and
have sown in their heart the seed of faith.
July 4, 1930
Concerning the trip of Miss Martha Root, we have already heard about her
activities from many sources. Shoghi Effendi sincerely hopes that the
National Assembly will undertake such measures as would keep up the work
and produce some tangible result from her visit. It is very important to
follow up the work that she started and keep in touch with the people she
has been able to interest.
[From the Guardian:]
With the assurance of my deep appreciation of your many and highly
successful endeavours in connection with the visit of Miss Root and of my
fervent and loving prayers for your own happiness and spiritual
advancement.
September 19, 1930
Baha'i Representation at the All-Asian Women's Conference
Concerning Baha'i representation at the All-Asian Women's Conference; this
is undoubtedly a most commendable thing to do especially as the Cause has
so much concerning the position of women in society. Shoghi Effendi hopes
that the National Assembly will do its best to win the admiration of all
the assembled delegates for the teachings of the Cause along that line. We
should always take such opportunities that present themselves. May be we
would succeed to render some service to society and alleviate its ills.
November 10, 1930
Shoghi Effendi hopes that with the combined efforts of the friends and the
Master's infinite mercy a great success will be achieved at both of the
conferences. While visiting the Blessed Shrines he will remember the
delegates and ask for them divine guidance. If presented properly the
position of women in the Baha'i teachings will surely attract much
attention, for it is not only legal but also spiritual and educational.
Our ideals are so high and at the same time so practicable that all other
views will fall short if compared to them.
Shoghi Effendi hopes that many will be able to attend these conferences
and render all the assistance they possibly can.
[From the Guardian:]
I trust that the message sent on behalf of the Greatest Holy Leaf and
myself has reached in time and been conveyed to the members of the
conference. May the Almighty Hand of Baha'u'llah guide your steps and
sustain your efforts in the manifold services you are rendering to the
Cause. I will continue to pray for you from the depths of my heart.
January 7, 1931
Publication of the "Dawn-Breakers"
The Guardian has also received the account of the National Fund of the
National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of India & Burma and he read it
with careful attention and deep interest.
He was very pleased to learn with what self-sacrificing efforts our Indian
brothers are toiling and he fervently prays that the Almighty may
continually shower His blessings upon them that they may be able to spread
the Cause in the most rapid and in the most efficient way.
Shoghi Effendi was particularly rejoiced at the perseverance with which
our talented Baha'i brother, Dr. Pritam Singh, is carrying on his work in
connection with the publication of the "Baha'i Weekly", copies of which he
has received and read with deepest interest.
You may have heard of the projected publication by the Baha'i Publishing
Committee of the book entitled "The Dawn-Breakers" being Nabil's narrative
of the early days of the Baha'i revelation, recently translated by the
Guardian. It is hoped that the Indian friends will order a few copies of
this highly valuable book and that they will send a few others to some of
the leading libraries in India and Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
My prayers will continue to be offered on behalf of the loyal and
self-sacrificing friends in India and Burma. Prof. Pritam Singh's notable
and ever-increasing share in the administrative, literary and financial
activities of the Faith in that land is a source of genuine and constant
satisfaction. I would specially request your Assembly to prepare a
comprehensive and detailed report on the activities and progress of the
Faith in India and Burma during the last two years, 1930-32, for inclusion
in the forthcoming issue of the Baha'i World. Will you kindly forward the
report to Mr. Horace Holley as soon as possible, as he has been charged to
draw up a survey similar to the one published in the last volume. I would
also urge the friends in India and Burma to order as many copies of the
"Dawn-Breakers" as they possibly can as I regard its circulation of vital
importance to the Cause.
August 29, 1931
Advertisements in Baha'i Periodicals
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to drop you these few lines to draw your
attention to a general principle he has laid down for all the Baha'i
periodicals, namely that they should be very careful in selecting the
advertisements they accept to publish. It should be highly dignified, such
as books for example, otherwise it would detract from the dignity of the
periodical itself. This may cause certain difficulty in financially
establishing the paper, but we should face the sacrifice and not endanger
the prestige of our publications. He wishes you to take note of this
general recommendation in accepting advertisements for the Baha'i Weekly.
January 7, 1932
Mrs. Ransom Kehler Visits India
Mrs. Ransom Kehler has informed us of her trip to India. Shoghi Effendi
hopes that the friends will give her all the necessary facilities to make
of her tour a real success. The report of her work in Australia and New
Zealand has been brilliant. There is no reason why she should not do the
same in India and Burma if she is given the chance, and be put in touch
with really open-minded and interested people. In America she is
considered among the first class national teachers and is well informed as
to the progress of modern thought and the teachings of the Cause. May be
she will be able to give a new impetus to the teaching work....
He trusts that through the efforts of you and the other members of the
National Assembly the Cause will take a real lead in uniting the different
elements existing in India and turn the face of its people to the light of
God shining through Baha'u'llah.
[From the Guardian:]
Your most welcome letter interrupting a prolonged silence on your part,
has brought joy and strength to my heart. I will most assuredly pray for
your complete recovery, for in you the Cause in India has an invaluable
asset which I, for my part, greatly value and prize. I trust and pray that
Mrs. Kehler's visit will lend a fresh impetus to the work which you are so
ably conducting. I would certainly advise her to prolong her stay in your
midst if it is practicable for her to do so. It is a splendid opportunity
which the friends in India should utilize to the utmost possible extent.
May the Beloved bless and reinforce your high endeavours, remove every
obstacle from your path, and enable you at once to broaden and reinforce
the foundations of the Faith in that troubled land.
February 11, 1932
Shoghi Effendi was very glad to hear of the arrangements you have made for
the trip of Mrs. Ransom Kehler to India. Being thoroughly familiar with
the teachings and a competent speaker, she should succeed to render
wonderful services to the progress of the movement in India. She could be
easily ranked as a first class teacher among the Baha'is of America and
has been the cause of guidance to innumerable souls. Guided and helped by
Prof. Pritam Singh she should be able to awaken many souls to the spirit
and teachings of Baha'u'llah.
March 12, 1932
Translation of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
[From the Guardian:]
I wish to urge you to take as soon as you possibly can, the necessary and
most effective steps to ensure the translation of Dr. Esslemont's book
into Urdu and Gujrati. I have already expressed the desirability to have
these translations to a number of pilgrims, but so far my hopes have not
materialized. This book has already been translated and printed into eight
different languages, the latest being Russian, Hebrew and Chinese. The
Persian, the Albanian, the Bulgarian, the French and the Swedish versions
will be printed this year. I wish you to do all in your power to ensure
the speedy and correct translation of this book into these two languages,
and if necessary to hire the services of a competent non-Baha'i
translator. I shall be only too pleased to assist financially both with
regard to their translation and publication. May the Beloved guide and
assist you in this vital and important task.
March 12, 1932
Mrs. Kehler Visits Calcutta
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated
March 14th 1932 informing him about the arrival of Mrs. Ransom Kehler to
Calcutta. He was very glad to know that her visit was successful and that
it has very much stimulated the teaching work in that city. He sincerely
hopes that as a consequence a number of souls will enter the Cause and be
inspired by its divine teachings and ennobling spirit.
Such teachers of the Cause who, with all sincerity and determination,
undertake such long trips, should be very much helped by the resident
believers if real progress is to be achieved. They ought to be assisted to
reach important people speak to intelligent and receptive audiences, and
obtain interviews with persons whose heart is open to the light of God.
Otherwise, during their short stay they would, like a helpless man in a
strange country, be impotent to achieve their purpose.
Shoghi Effendi is very glad the friends have taken the necessary step to
assist Mrs. Ransom Kehler by appointing Professor Pritam Singh to
accompany her in her trip through India. May God help her and help you in
proclaiming the Word of God through the length and breadth of that vast
land.
March 28, 1932
He was very glad to learn of the plans you made for Mrs. Ransom Kehler. He
sincerely hopes that in these meetings and public lectures delivered in so
many cities, she has been able to attract some new souls to the Cause and
confirm people who until now have been merely interested. We should admit,
however, that the time at her disposal was too short to give her the
chance of doing her best. A teacher ought to remain at least a few months
in the same city if he wants to really confirm souls. Mere passing and
giving a lecture or two is not sufficient unless there are resident
Baha'is to continue the work that was merely started. Anyhow Mrs. Ransom
Kehler is expected to reach Haifa in about 3 weeks and Shoghi Effendi will
hear the report of her journey from herself.
Translation of Baha'u'llah and the New Era
The Guardian was very glad to learn of your quick response to his
expressed desire in having Dr. Esslemont's book translated into Urdu and
Gujrati. As he comes to learn from one of the Parsee pilgrims here in
Haifa, the book has already been translated by a competent Baha'i in India
into Gujrati. So there remains only Urdu. So Shoghi Effendi wishes you to
concentrate upon having the book translated only into Urdu.
[From the Guardian:]
I wish you to concentrate your efforts on the completion of the Urdu
version of Dr. Esslemont's book, and to take the necessary step for its
early publication. I shall be only too glad to assist financially in its
printing as soon as its translation is completed. I also desire to stress
the paramount importance of following up the valuable work accomplished by
Mrs. Kehler and which I hope other international Baha'i teachers will
reinforce. How vast is the field and how small the number of competent
teachers! Baha'u'llah will however bless and crown our efforts with
success if we persevere and labour with unabated confidence and vigour.
April 5, 1932
Need of Baha'i Teachers all over the World
He sincerely hopes that as a result of her (Mrs. Kehler's) trip the Cause
will make a great progress in India and many souls will be drawn into the
Cause. It was surely very nice and wise on the part of the National
Assembly to appoint Mr. Pritam Singh to travel with her and help her make
openings into intellectual circles. It is unfortunate, however, that she
cannot stay long in every centre and make really confirmed believers such
as she did in certain centres in Australia. But perhaps the National
Assembly will attend to that task and keeping in touch with persons she
will interest, and gradually make them embrace the Faith and lend a help
towards its progress. We need teachers in every part of the world, and as
those who are in active service are few we should create some from the
material we have. It is the work of the N.S.A. to attend to such matters
and develop some of our young Baha'is into competent teachers. Baha'u'llah
and the New Era to be Translated into Urdu & Hindi
In a previous letter I informed you on behalf of Shoghi Effendi that as we
already have a translation of Dr. Esslemont's book into Gujrati, you
concentrate your efforts on having it rendered only into Urdu, so that the
work may soon be completed and published.
[From the Guardian:]
I trust you have by now taken the necessary steps for a prompt and careful
translation of the book into Urdu. This service will, I am sure, be an
added blessing to the masses of India, whom you are striving so devotedly
and energetically to arouse and teach. May it prove a prelude to an
intensive and fruitful teaching campaign that shall bring in its wake
enlightenment, peace and hope to the distracted multitudes of that
agitated country.
April 12, 1932
Even though we can refer to a non-Baha'i when we have no one among the
friends to undertake a proper work of translation, yet it is always
preferable to have it accomplished by a person who is imbued with the
spirit and is already familiar with the different expressions of Baha'i
conceptions unfamiliar to a non-Baha'i. Shoghi Effendi wishes him success
and will pray for his guidance.
Mrs. Ransom Kehler is now in Haifa taking some rest before starting for
Persia, where she expects to stay a few months. Shoghi Effendi was very
glad to hear of her great success in India. He hopes that she will after
Persia pay another visit to that country and resume the work she has
started. She is surely a very competent teacher and well versed in the
Writings.
[From the Guardian:]
I trust and pray that you will be enabled to start promptly the
publication of the Hindi translation on one hand, and to ensure, on the
other, the early completion of the Urdu version, both of which, I feel are
indispensable preliminaries to an intensive teaching campaign among the
great masses of the Indian people. I am confident that the publication of
the Gujrati version together with these and the Burmese translations, will
reinforce the impetus which the projected visit of Mrs. Kehler to India
next autumn will lend to the onward march of our beloved Cause in India.
May the Almighty reinforce your labours and bless your high endeavours.
May 31, 1932
He is very glad to know that the different translations of Dr. Esslemont's
book, that you have undertaken to have made, are progressing rapidly. He
sincerely hopes that before long they will be passed through the press and
be ready for distribution.
Even though the book was written by a Christian 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 Iqan.
Shoghi Effendi hopes that these books will greatly stimulate the teaching
work in India and become the cause of guidance to many sincere souls.
Passing Away of the Greatest Holy Leaf
The Guardian wishes me also to thank you for your kind words of sympathy
in connection with the passing away of the Greatest Holy Leaf. This great
loss will be felt by every Baha'i but especially the pilgrims to whom she
used to be such a source of inspiration and joy. All those who met her
left her presence with a new spirit and a firm determination to serve the
Cause for which she suffered so much and whose progress was so near to her
heart.
What the Guardian is glad about is that her passing is creating a new
spirit among the friends and arousing them to greater effort. May her
death do for the progress of the Faith as much as her life did.
Publication of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
[From the Guardian:]
I wish to emphasize afresh the vital necessity of speeding up the work of
the translation and publication of the Gujrati, the Urdu and the Hindi
versions of the 'New Era', a book that has already been published into 14
different languages and is being translated into sixteen additional
tongues. I am deeply appreciative of what you have already achieved, and
wish to assure you of my continued prayers for the success of your
painstaking efforts and the realization of your dearest wish in the
service of our beloved Faith.
October 19, 1932
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to communicate with you to inquire regarding the
Hindi and Urdu translations of Dr. Esslemont's book. It is sometime that
he has had no definite word as to the progress of that work which you have
so kindly undertaken to supervise. He sincerely hopes that gradually that
task will be successfully achieved and that they will be ready to be
submitted to the printers and then to the readers who may be anxiously
awaiting to study them and benefit from their contents.
This work once completed will become a great stimulus to the teaching
activities of the friends, for books can do infinitely more work than
teachers. Sitting in a chair in a solitary corner one is infinitely more
receptive to truth than in a lecture hall or in a discussion group. The
public has learned the habit of reading. It is through that channel
therefore that we have to approach them.
November 19, 1932
He was very glad to obtain some news regarding the translation of Dr.
Esslemont's book into Urdu and Hindi, for he feels deeply interested in
the work. He feels that it is only when such books are accessible to the
public that the Cause will begin to spread and its followers increase in
number.
He, therefore, wishes you to exert your effort along that line so that the
task may be achieved properly and without any needless delay. Also please
keep him informed regarding any new development or any progress made.
We do not now have any pilgrims, but the news we receive from different
parts of the world show great progress achieved by the friends. Even
though material conditions in some instances hamper their activities to an
appreciable extent, yet their devotion and self-sacrifice are daily
winning for them the admiration and sympathy of the world around them.
Every day a new group is formed and new souls attracted to the faith.
[From the Guardian:]
I grieve to learn of the delay in the translation and publication of the
various translations of Dr. Esslemont's valuable book, and I urge you to
do all you possibly can to hasten the realization of our cherished
hopes--hopes which when fulfilled will no doubt lend a great and fresh
impetus to the advancement of the Faith in that land. I am enclosing a
copy of my recent letter concerning the Greatest Holy Leaf and the
measures which, I feel, must be taken by the friends in Persia preliminary
to the formation of the House of Justice.
January 10, 1933
Baha'i Center in Calcutta
He sincerely hopes that through God's infinite blessings the necessary sum
will be forthcoming and that in time a Center worthy of the prestige and
name of the Cause will be purchased or built.
Such institutions greatly help the spread of the Faith, for there will be
a permanent place where the interested souls can go for information. It
also operates as the center of the different activities of the Spiritual
Assembly of that locality.
In his moments of prayer at the Blessed Shrines, the Guardian will think
of you as well as of the other friends in that locality and ask for you
all divine guidance and help.
He was also delighted to hear that three new souls have accepted the Faith
in Calcutta. He hopes that before long we will have large groups,
comprising hundreds of earnest and seeking souls, enter the Cause and take
part in spreading the Message. Please assure the three of them of Shoghi
Effendi's loving greetings.
February 8, 1933 Translation of Baha'u'llah & the New Era into Burmese
Shoghi Effendi wishes me to write you this short note to enclose a check
for thirty pounds.
This is his contribution towards the publication of the translation of Dr.
Esslemont's book into Burmese which has been made by Sayed Mustafa Rumi.
Please inform the latter about its receipt because he has asked the
Guardian to send this contribution through you and he may be anxious to
receive this news.
March 1, 1933
He was very glad to learn that the Burmese translation has been completed
and that it is now in the hands of the printers.
Now the translation into Burmese and Gujrati have been completed and the
latter is even printed and circulated the Guardian feels we should
concentrate upon the Hindi and Urdu translations. We should not permit so
much unnecessary delay. If one way seems closed or difficult we could try
another and strive for the speedy completion of those books. The more we
see the crying need of the world for the spiritual teachings of our Faith
the more restless we should feel in giving out the Message and improving
the means of diffusing the precepts of the Cause.
In his moments of prayers at the Blessed Shrines the Guardian will think
of you and ask God to guide and sustain your efforts. He knows fully how
difficult it is these days to bring a task to a speedy and successful
conclusion, but to a person who is determined and lays his trust in God
nothing is impossible.
Teaching Among the Masses in India
[From the Guardian:]
I rejoice to hear of the steps that are being taken for the printing of
the Burmese edition of the 'New Era' but deplore the delay in the
translation of the book into Hindi and Urdu. The Gujrati copies have
already been placed in the library of the Mansion at Bahji, and I long
with all my heart to witness these remaining translations in their final
and printed form, side by side with the nineteen printed versions which
have already been collected and distributed throughout the world. I would
urge you to concentrate your energy on this important and essential
preliminary to an intensive campaign of teaching among the masses in
India. Persevere and rest assured that my prayers will continue to be
offered on your behalf.
March 24, 1933
He was very glad to receive the Gujrati translation of Dr. Esslemont's
book, and he hopes that through your efforts the Hindi and Urdu
translation of it will soon be ready for publication. As you may know,
this work has already been translated into 19 different languages and its
rendering into 11 others will be soon completed. This is really
encouraging.
[From the Guardian:]
I long to hear from you and of the progress of your devoted and incessant
activities in the service of our beloved Faith. I am also eager to receive
the good news of the completion of the translation and early publication
of the Urdu and Hindi versions of the 'New Era'. The utmost effort should
be exerted to ensure the consummation of this work which, I feel, must
precede an intensive teaching campaign among the masses in India. I am
arranging for Mrs. Kehler to visit southern Persia this autumn after which
she is expecting to visit India, this winter.
June 8, 1933
Baha'i Magazine
He was particularly glad to learn that some of our Indian friends have
encouraged you to start a fortnightly paper on the Cause. The idea is,
undoubtedly, most genuine and meets with our Guardian's wholehearted
approval. He wishes you, however, not to act hurriedly, to take all the
necessary steps which can insure its safety and development. Such projects
are not so easy to carry out, especially in these days when the economic
crisis is getting so acute. At any rate, if you find that your financial
conditions allow you to undertake such an important work, you should
persevere in your efforts and try to make your paper an indispensable
adjunct to the teaching activities of the friends.
The Guardian hopes that you will be more successful in this, your second
attempt. The unexpected death of the 'Baha'i Weekly', he feels, had badly
affected the prestige of the Cause. It is hoped that your new fortnightly
paper will enable all to appreciate more adequately the divine potency
with which it is endowed.
Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler, who has been doing such a fine work in Persia,
is planning to leave for India at the beginning of winter. Her presence
among you will be certainly appreciated. She is such a wonderful soul, so
devoted, so active and so capable. The Guardian hopes that you will make
the utmost use of her stay in India.
[From the Guardian:]
Your unswerving loyalty and inflexible resolve to carry on the work you
have so nobly initiated are indeed worthy of the highest praise. I will
pray for your success and the steady and uninterrupted progress of your
activities whenever I lay my head on the sacred Threshold and will
supplicate for you all the strength and guidance you need for the
prosecution of your task. The friends in India and Burma should bestir
themselves and, under the guidance and by the aid of the National Assembly
prepare the way for the forthcoming visit of our able and brilliant
international teacher Mrs. Kehler. May the Lord sustain and guide them in
their endeavours and reward them for their acts of self-sacrifice in His
Path.
June 13, 1933
Publication of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
As regards the Urdu translation of Dr. Esslemont's book, Shoghi Effendi
wishes you to make all the necessary effort to have it published as soon
as possible. He is fully aware of the difficulties that have caused an
inevitable delay in the publication of this highly important work, but he
feels certain that, through your perseverance and through the kind and
invaluable assistance of Prof. Pritam Singh ... the translation will be
soon completed and be ready for publication.
The Guardian would like you also to take all the necessary steps for the
Hindi translation of this same work. It is hoped that no delay will be
caused this time.
[From the Guardian:]
The Serbian and Hungarian versions of "The New Era" have been recently
published through the efforts of Martha Root. The Rumanian translation has
been undertaken and the Greek version will soon be started. I long to see
the Urdu, the Hindi and the Burmese versions in print and circulated among
the masses of the Indian people. Persevere and redouble in your efforts.
August 6, 1933
Shoghi Effendi was deeply gratified to learn of the important steps you
have taken for the translation and publication of Dr. Esslemont's book
into Hindi. He has greatly appreciated the assistance of Dr. Kaushal
Kishore, and sincerely trusts that through your combined efforts the work
will be soon completed and will be ready for circulation. In a recent
communication to the Guardian, our devoted friend Siyyid, Mustafa Rumi,
has given the news of the publication of this same book in Burmese. It is
hoped that this will serve to encourage our Indian believers to follow his
example.
[From the Guardian:]
I am so pleased and grateful to you for your incessant efforts in
connexion with the translation and publication of the 'New Era', and I am
deeply gratified to learn of the progress already achieved. I will
continue to pray for the speedy realization of your hopes, plans and
wishes in the service of this glorious Faith.
September 10, 1933
Passing Away of Brilliant Teacher--Mrs. Kehler
The sudden passing of that wholly-consecrated and brilliant teacher and
international promoter of the Cause Mrs. Keith Ransom-Kehler, has plunged
Shoghi Effendi into deepest sorrow for in her he has lost not only a
valuable co-worker but a dear friend. After more than a year of intense
teaching work in Persia, where she was entrusted by the Guardian with the
mission of acquainting our Persian brethren with the basic principles of
the Administration and of liberating them from the appalling persecutions
to which they have been lately subjected, our precious Keith left this
world under so tragic circumstances that she was given by the Guardian the
title of the first western martyr on Persian soil, and was raised by him
to the station of one of the Hands of the Cause. Her deep-rooted and
unshakable faith, her unqualified loyalty to the Cause of the
Administration and her profound knowledge of the Teachings, all these
fully entitle her to occupy such an eminent rank among the faithful.
Our Indian friends, who have been so appreciative of her last visit to
them, must have been particularly affected by such an irretrievable loss.
May the memory of her services inspire them to follow in her footsteps,
and to tread the path of service as firmly and as successfully as she did.
Twentyfive Printed Versions of Baha'u'llah & the New Era
[From the Guardian:]
I am so eager to receive the news of the completion and publication of the
Hindi and Urdu versions of the "New Era", and it will please and encourage
you to know that we have already twentyfive different printed versions of
this precious book translated into Eastern and Western tongues.
November 26, 1933
Registration of Bombay Assembly
The Guardian was greatly pleased to read the minutes of the last meeting
of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of India and Burma and
he wishes me to express his genuine appreciation of the important steps
which your Assembly has taken for the further extension and consolidation
of the administrative institutions of the Faith in that country. He would
be very grateful if you send him regularly the minutes of the meetings of
the N.S.A. and he would be only too glad to offer any suggestion or advice
which may help its members to better discharge their manifold and delicate
functions. He sincerely hopes that your Assembly will meet as regularly
and as frequently as possible in order to maintain the efficiency of its
functioning and to raise the standard and to widen the scope of its
activities.
The important decision of the N.S.A. relative to the registration of the
Bombay Assembly as a recognized religious body is, in the Guardian's
opinion, a leading step towards the official recognition of the Cause as
an independent religious organisation by the Government authorities both
in India and Burma. He would strongly urge, however, that the constitution
to be adopted should not only be based on that which the New York Assembly
has adopted for its own registration but should reproduce it identically
without any change whatsoever but with due consideration to all local and
geographical differences.
The Guardian wishes also to stress the necessity of completing the Urdu
and the Hindi translations of Dr. Esslemont's 'New Era'. He has already,
in several communications addressed to Mr. N.R. Vakil, requested him to
take all the necessary steps in this direction. May the decision of the
N.S.A. on this point hasten and insure the completion of this task to
which the Guardian has so repeatedly drawn the attention of the friends.
December 27, 1933
Bedrock of Baha'i Administrative Order
The Guardian was very pleased to learn of the progress done by the Indian
N.S.A. in its efforts to consolidate, widen and maintain the scope of its
national activities. The difficulties in your way are tremendous. The
differences of language and of social and intellectual background do,
undoubtedly, render the work somewhat difficult to carry out and may
temporarily check the efficient and smooth working of the national
administrative machinery of the Faith. They, nevertheless, impart to the
deliberations of the National Assembly a universality which they would be
otherwise lacking, and give to its members a breadth of view which is
their duty to cultivate and foster. It is not uniformity which we should
seek in the formation of any national or local assembly. For the bedrock
of the Baha'i administrative order is the principle of unity in diversity,
which has been so strongly and so repeatedly emphasized in the writings of
the Cause. Differences which are not fundamental and contrary to the basic
teachings of the Cause should be maintained, while the underlying unity of
the administrative order should be at any cost preserved and insured.
Unity, both of purpose and of means is, indeed, indispensable to the safe
and speedy working of every Assembly, whether local or national.
Another factor which, in the Guardian's opinion, is essential to the
development of your N.S.A. is the holding of frequent meetings. Although
the members are stationed at great distances from one another, yet they
can communicate through correspondence. It is not necessary that all the
members should be present in all the sessions. Those who for some reason
or another are unable to attend in person the meetings of the N.S.A., can
express their views in a written form and send them to the Assembly. The
main point is that your national activities should not be let to suffer in
any way, and its work be retarded and postponed because of such
necessarily unimportant and secondary considerations.
[From the Guardian:]
I wish to assure you in person of my prayers for the removal of the
difficulties, domestic and otherwise, that beset your path in these days.
I will supplicate the Almighty to guide you in your manifold and valuable
activities in the service of His Faith, to cheer your heart, and to deepen
your understanding of the fundamentals of His Faith. You should
concentrate your efforts at the present time on whatever will, in your
opinion reinforce the basis and extend the influence, of the
administrative institutions and the teaching activities of the Faith. The
Cause will, no doubt, surmount the obstacles that now hinder its growth
and will establish its ascendency in the fulness of time and at the
appointed hour. We should persevere and never feel disheartened.
January 2, 1934
Accept Justified Resignation
The N.S.A. cannot refuse accepting a resignation when it is well
justified, and when it is done not with the purpose of shirking
responsibility but with the intention of giving a chance to others to
prove themselves worthy of occupying responsible posts in the
administrative field.
April 10, 1934
Revival of the Spirit of Fellowship
The resolutions passed by your N.S.A. at its recent meeting at Delhi have
given him sufficient evidence of the new spirit that has come to animate
its members. It is his hope that through the continued development of that
same spirit your Assembly will be enabled to do more effective work for
the Cause.
[From the Guardian:]
The splendid resolutions passed by the National Assembly at Delhi are
admirable and indicate the revival of the spirit of fellowship and
determination to consolidate the administrative basis of the Faith in
India and Burma. I am eagerly anticipating to hear the news that these
resolutions have been duly carried out, particularly regarding the
incorporation of the Bombay Assembly and the translation and publication
of the New Era into Urdu and Sindhi.
May 29, 1934
Changes in Membership of Baha'i Assemblies
He fully agrees with the Bombay Assembly that they are in need of an
English-speaking Secretary, in view of the increasingly large volume of
correspondence they receive in English. But he feels that this emergency
does not afford sufficient justification to any believer or Assembly to
make the slightest departure from the recognized and duly established
principles governing the election of the members of any Assembly, whether
local or national. If the Bombay Assembly feels it necessary to have a
Secretary for the English correspondence they can appoint an Assistant
Secretary from outside the Assembly. It is only the body of Baha'i
electors who can bring about any change in the membership of the Assembly,
and this during the Ridvan feast which for all administrative purposes is
the beginning of the Baha'i Year.
June 5, 1934
Intensify Teaching Throughout India
He notes with deep satisfaction the important steps taken by your N.S.A.
for intensifying the spread of the Cause throughout India and Burma, and
particularly values the encouragement and help which they have extended to
dear Mr. Pritam Singh in his teaching tour in Northern India. He is
praying from the depth of his heart for the success of this trip, as well
as for the speedy and complete materialisation of the plans which you, in
close collaboration with your fellow-members in the National Assembly, are
initiating for the wider diffusion of the teachings throughout your
country.
He fully appreciates, indeed, the suggestions you have offered him in this
connection. The lack of competent teachers is no doubt a serious obstacle
facing the Indian believers at present. But it is by no means the most
difficult problem with which they have to deal. The essential is that all
the friends, without any exception whatever, should realise the full
measure of the responsibility which Baha'u'llah has placed on them for
teaching far and wide His Message. It is only through such an awakened
consciousness of their heavy and sacred responsibilities and duties that
the believers can hope to effectively promote and safeguard the interests
of the Cause. The Baha'i era is thus the age of individual
responsibility--the age in which everyone is called to consider the spread
of the Cause as his most sacred and vital obligation.
This is the point which the Guardian wishes your Assembly to emphasize in
connection with the problem of teaching in India. He hopes that through
their collective efforts a new zeal for teaching will come to animate the
entire community of the believers throughout India and Burma.
Shoghi Effendi approves of your suggestion to utilize the fifty pounds
which he sent to you, for the publication of the Bengali translation of
the "New Era". He hopes that this work will soon be ready for
distribution.
November 25, 1934 "Kitab-i-Iqan" Translated in Many Languages
I am directed by the Guardian to request you to kindly mail to his address
five copies of the Urdu translation of the "Kitab-i-Iqan" (Book of
Certitude).
You will certainly be interested to know that the Iqan has already been
translated and published into Russian, English, French, German, Chinese,
Albanian, Urdu and Braille. Steps have also been taken for its rendering
and publication into Arabic, Armenian, Swedish and Danish.
November 27, 1934
Persecution of the Baha'is in Iran
The persecutions from which the Persian friends are now suffering
represent, indeed, the culmination in the long and nation-wide campaign
which the authorities in that country have during the last two years
launched against the Faith. In many of its aspects this campaign is
reminiscent of the persecutions suffered by the early Babis,...
The first incident which led to this outburst of fierce antagonism on the
part of the Government was in connection with the Tarbiat Schools in
Tehran. The school authorities having, after due consultation with the
N.S.A. and in strict conformity with the principle governing the
observance of Baha'i holidays, decided to close the schools on the
occasion of the celebration of the anniversary of Bab's martyrdom, the
authorities in the capital immediately issued orders that the schools be
permanently closed, and that also no public meetings of any kind be held
by the believers. This has been done in spite of the fact that other
religious communities, such as the Muslims and the Zoroastrians, are
allowed to celebrate their own feasts, and as such enjoy full religious
freedom. Similar orders were issued to the believers in all other parts of
Persia, with the result that today the friends find their activities in
Persia completely paralyzed. Their schools have all been definitely
closed, their meetings suspended, their correspondence intercepted, and
their assemblies and committees for the most part dissolved.
The situation, as it stands at present, is highly disconcerting. The
friends, however, faithful to the injunctions of the Master regarding
obedience to government in all administrative matters as distinguished
from those affecting their conscience and loyalty to the Cause strictly
adhere to the laws and orders of the government. Their sole hope is the
assurance that in due time all these restrictions are bound to
disappear....
In the meantime, the Guardian would urge all the friends to patiently and
prayerfully wait until these sad happenings take their due course. For the
history of the Cause, particularly in Persia, is a clear illustration of
the truth that such persecutions invariably serve to strengthen the
believers in their faith, by stimulating the spiritual powers latent in
their hearts, and by awakening in them a new and deeper consciousness of
their duties and responsibilities towards the Faith. Indeed, the mere
progress of the Cause, by provoking the hatreds and jealousies of peoples
and nations, creates for itself such difficulties and obstacles as only
its divine spirit can overcome. Abdu'l-Baha has emphatically stated that
the enmity and opposition of the world will increase in direct proportion
to the extension and progress of the Faith. The greater the zeal of the
believers and the more striking the effect of their achievements, the
fiercer will be the opposition of the enemy.
Many are the passages in the Writings of Baha'u'llah wherein He
foreshadows the persecutions awaiting His Faith. But side by side with
such emphatic predictions is the assurance that out of these sufferings
and trials His Cause will emerge triumphant and purified. May we not,
therefore, gather strength from such an assurance, and with hearts filled
with confident and joyous hope arise to fulfil our part in the
establishment of His Cause?
January 20, 1935
Training of Baha'i Teachers
With regard to the teaching outline you had enclosed, Shoghi Effendi has
read it with interest and appreciation and wishes me to assure you of his
whole-hearted approval. The method you have adopted for the training of
Baha'i teachers is, indeed, very similar to the one used by the American
friends. It is very thorough, yet clear and highly effective. The Guardian
trusts that the believers in India and Burma will make full use of your
Assembly's suggestions and directions, and in this way help in
inaugurating a new and effective teaching campaign throughout India and
Burma.
July 8, 1935
Registration of L.S.A. of Karachi
He has been particularly pleased and encouraged to receive the copy of the
Certificate of Registration of the Karachi Baha'i Assembly, and is eagerly
awaiting for the registration papers of the Delhi and Rangoon Spiritual
Assemblies. He hopes that the N.S.A. will expedite the matter of
legalizing all the Local Assemblies of India and Burma and in this way
insure the stability of the administrative institutions of the Cause in
these two countries.
August 12, 1935
Formation of an Assembly in Lahore
He is pleased to learn of the possibility of establishing an Assembly in
Lahore in the near future. He would urge you, and through you your
fellow-members in the N.S.A., to make a special effort to bring about such
a formation as soon as conditions are found to be favourable. He hopes
that the establishment of a local Assembly in so important and central a
town in India will greatly help the expansion of the Faith, and will
consolidate the foundations of its institutions throughout that country.
October 17, 1935 Historic Step in Development of Administrative Order
He wishes me to congratulate you, and through you your fellow-members in
the N.S.A., for the steps you have taken for the registration of the
Delhi, Calcutta, Rangoon and other local Assemblies. He hopes that by the
end of the year six out of the eight Assemblies will be duly registered.
Needless to say that the obtention of such an official recognition from
the authorities is an historic step in the development of the
Administrative Order of the Faith throughout India and Burma, and one
which shall greatly enhance its prestige, and consolidate its position in
the eyes of the public. May Baha'u'llah continue to guide and assist your
efforts for the fulfilment of this task.
The Guardian is also very much gratified to learn that the N.S.A. is
considering the possibility of establishing a local Assembly in Lucknow.
He trusts that in Jaunpur too an Assembly will be formed very soon, and
that through these two valuable additions to the list of local Baha'i
Assemblies, the administrative work of the Cause in India will make
further and steady advancement.
In connection with the Teaching School which the N.S.A. is planning to
start, the Guardian wishes me to express his approval, as well as his
appreciation of this important action taken by your Assembly for the
extension of their teaching work. He is also very pleased at the news of
the teaching tour undertaken by Prof. Pritam Singh throughout Northern
India and Bengal. He is praying for the success of this trip, and
cherishes the hope that it may serve to bring into the Cause people of
capacity and of true spiritual vision.
Circulation of Abdu'l-Baha's Photographs
Regarding the use of Abdu'l-Baha's photographs; Shoghi Effendi sees no
objection to their circulation. He would, however, suggest that the Paris
photograph be used, as well as the American reproduction of it, printed on
yellow paper with a quotation from the Kitab-i-Ahd at the bottom.
Splendid Initiative
[From the Guardian:]
My heart swells with pride and gratitude as I witness, in rapid succession
and with ever-increasing dearness, the evidences of the splendid
initiative, the unwavering determination and solidarity which have
characterized your accomplishments in recent months. The National Assembly
of India and Burma may be said to have resuscitated our Cause and its
institutions throughout the length and breadth of that land. A mighty
power whose source is centred in Baha'u'llah Himself is copiously flowing
through and permeating the various organs of the Administrative Order of
His Faith in both India and Burma. You and your collaborators stand on the
threshold of unparalleled achievements. I cannot but congratulate you on
the start you have made and on your choice of the path, which, after so
many trials and vicissitudes, you are so confidently treading. Persevere,
and be happy and thankful to Baha'u'llah.
November 15, 1935
Baha'i Holidays must be Observed
The Guardian ... feels truly delighted at the news of the splendid
meetings that were held in Bombay in honour of the anniversary of the
birthday of His Holiness Baha'u'llah. This fresh evidence of the loyalty
and devotion with which the Bombay friends are upholding the institutions
of the Faith is highly gratifying and encouraging to him, indeed.
But he cannot but deplore the fact that some of the believers are
reluctant to observe, as strictly as they should, the Feasts and
anniversaries prescribed by the Cause. This attitude, which may be
justified in certain exceptional circumstances, is fraught with
incalculable dangers and harm to the community, and will, if allowed to
persist, seriously endanger its influence and prestige in the public eye.
Unity of action, in matters of so vital an importance as the observance of
Baha'i holidays, is essential. It is the responsibility of the N.S.A. to
remind and urge the friends to faithfully carry out all such laws and
precepts of the Cause, the enforcement of which does not constitute an
open violation of the laws of their country.
[From the Guardian:]
The striking evidences of renewed Baha'i activity throughout India and
Burma, the recent manifestations of loyalty, solidarity and self-sacrifice
on the part of individuals, groups and Assemblies in both the teaching and
administrative spheres of Baha'i service, rejoice my heart and revive and
enliven my hopes for the future of that land. The friends in India and
Burma have made a splendid start. They have laid a firm foundation within
the framework of the administrative order of our Faith. They have
weathered manifold and distressing difficulties and successfully
surmounted formidable obstacles. A new era is opening before them. I have
no doubt that they will rise to the height of the occasion, and will prove
themselves worthy of their high destiny.
November 22, 1935
Effective Publicity Throughout India
He feels greatly rejoiced at the important steps you have taken for giving
the Cause a wide and effective publicity throughout India. He has read
with much interest the newspaper clipping which you had enclosed, and
sincerely hopes that your masterly sketch of the history and teachings of
the Cause will serve to attract leading personalities among the Indian
public to the Faith.
Regarding the publication of the Hindi, Sindhi and Bengali translations of
"Baha'u'llah and the New Era," the Guardian very much appreciates your
N.S.A.'s response to his call for speeding up the printing of these works
which, he hopes, will, when widely circulated throughout the country open
a new era of unprecedented teaching activity not only in India and Burma,
but also in Ceylon and other neighbouring countries.
January 3, 1936
He feels really proud of you and of your distinguished and able co-workers
in the National Assembly for the unity, efficiency and zeal with which you
are labouring for the consolidation of the Administration throughout India
and Burma. He is convinced that your sustained and collective efforts in
this connection will soon result in ushering in a new era in the history
of the Cause in that country.
Correspondence with the Guardian
The N.S.A. should, indeed, advise the believers to lessen their
correspondence with the Guardian. But under no circumstances it can
prevent them from writing to him. For this is a sacred right and a supreme
privilege which every believer can rightly claim to possess, as through it
alone he can get in direct touch with his Guardian. If individuals feel,
after the advice of the N.S.A. to lessen correspondence, an inner urge to
write to the Guardian they should not be prevented or discouraged.
"New-Era" in Sindhi & Bengali Printed
Shoghi Effendi is delighted to learn that the Sindhi and the Bengali
translations of the "New Era" have been already sent to the press. He
hopes that the Hindi version will also be completed very soon. He is also
very pleased that the N.S.A. is taking the necessary steps for presenting
to the authorities the pamphlet regarding various laws and ordinances of
the Cause on matters of personal status. He sincerely hopes that the bill
you are planning to submit to the government will be approved. He is
eagerly awaiting to read the text himself.
Union With Loved Ones in the Next World
...the possibility of securing union with his beloved in the next world is
one which the Baha'i Teachings are quite clear about. According to
Baha'u'llah the soul retains its individuality and consciousness after
death, and is able to commune with other souls. This communion, however,
is purely spiritual in character, and is conditioned upon the
disinterested and selfless love of the individuals for each other. Effort
in the Field of Teaching Urgently Required
[From the Guardian:]
The evidences of the rise, the consolidation, and expansion of the
Administrative Order of our beloved Faith in India and Burma are highly
significant and most encouraging. The incorporation of several local
Assemblies is of historic importance. Reproduction of all the Certificates
of Incorporation will adorn the pages of the forthcoming Biennial. Now
that the basis of Baha'i institutions has been firmly laid, an
unprecedented effort in the field of teaching is urgently required. Such
an effort is of vital and paramount importance. May the Almighty sustain,
inspire and guide you in this meritorious endeavour.
March 10, 1936
...He would also appeal to all the friends to lend full and continued
support to the Cause of teaching throughout India. He would suggest that
those believers who have the means and the necessary physical
requirements, to settle in those localities where the light of the Cause
has not yet penetrated, with the view of establishing a new group. This,
he feels, is a very effective way of spreading the Cause in a vast and
exceptionally varied country like India.
Voting is Sacred Obligation
Regarding voting; it is not only the right but the sacred obligation of
every member of any Baha'i administrative body, whether permanent, or
temporary like the Convention, to fully and freely exercise this function.
Abstention from voting is, as a rule, not advisable, as it implies a
shirking of responsibility which every loyal and conscientious believer
should consider it a privilege to shoulder.
It is But a Beginning
[From the Guardian:]
The work thus far achieved, in both the teaching and administrative
spheres of Baha'i service, is highly reassuring and truly meritorious in
the sight of God. It is but a beginning however. Much remains to be
achieved. A systematic effort, aiming at the settlement of individual
believers in those states and provinces of India where the banner of the
Faith has not yet been hoisted, must be deliberately exerted and
vigorously sustained. Southern India particularly, the island of Ceylon
and other outlying centres on the fringe of the Indian Empire as well as
within its very heart should be won over, through your strenuous, constant
and devoted labours, to the ever-advancing Cause of Baha'u'llah. To extend
the outposts of our far-flung Faith should be your immediate objective.
May 31, 1936
Daidanaw Baha'i School
Much as he realizes the heavy and ever-increasing expenses which your
Assembly is incurring, particularly in these hard times, he feels
nevertheless the urge to impress upon you the vital necessity for the
Indian and Burmese believers to help in maintaining this Baha'i school in
Daidanaw which, in addition to the educational advantages it offers to the
Baha'is, can be of great help in promoting the cause of teaching
throughout Burma.
In view of that the Guardian wishes you to lay this matter before the
N.S.A. and to urge them to give it their careful consideration. He himself
is sending through the care of Siyyid Mustafa Roumie, thirty pounds as his
contribution towards the upkeep of the school at Daidanaw.
July 10, 1936
Two Main Principles to Follow
With regard to the problems confronting the believers; these, the Guardian
fully realizes, are by no means easy to solve. But the friends should be
confident that the very progress of the Cause will enable them to find the
necessary solution to the difficulties which appear now to so seriously
puzzle their minds.
There are two main principles which the Guardian wishes the friends to
always bear in mind and to conscientiously and faithfully follow. First is
the principle of unqualified and whole-hearted loyalty to the revealed
Word. The believers should be careful not to deviate, even a hair-breadth,
from the Teachings. Their supreme consideration should be to safeguard the
purity of the principles, tenets and laws of the Faith. It is only by this
means that they can hope to maintain the organic unity of the Cause. There
can and should be no liberals or conservatives, no moderates or extremes
in the Cause. For they are all subject to the one and the same law which
is the Law of God. This law transcends all differences, all personal or
local tendencies, moods and aspirations.
Next is the principle of complete, and immediate obedience to the
Assemblies, both local and national. It is the responsibility of these
Baha'i administrative bodies to enable the community to acquire, and
increasingly deepen in the knowledge and understanding of the Cause.
Doctrinal unity and administrative unity, these are the two chief pillars
that sustain the edifice of the Cause, and protect it from the storms of
opposition which so severely rage against it.
September 5, 1936
Visit of Mr. Schopflocher to India
I am addressing you these few lines on behalf of our beloved Guardian to
ask you to kindly inform your fellow-members in the Indian N.S.A. of the
happy news of the projected visit of dear Mr. Siegfried Schopflocher to
India, and to request you to take any step that your Assembly deems
advisable in order to make his journey as fruitful and abundant in its
results as possible.
Mr. Siegfried Schopflocher is not in need of any introduction, as his long
and manifold services to the Cause in America and particularly his
generous and unfailing support of the local, national as well as
international Baha'i funds, have endeared him to all the friends, whether
in the East or in the West.
For many years he has been a member of the American N.S.A. and he
contributed no small part in the steady development and consolidation of
the Administration ever since the early days of its establishment in the
States. He is indeed an outstanding champion of the Administration not
only in America but also in the West, and has proved in deeds his profound
attachment and loyalty to all its principles, laws and institutions.
His name will be ever associated with the beloved Temple in Wilmette. Had
it not been for the continued and whole-hearted support, both financial
and moral, which he so generously extended to it, that edifice could have
never been reared so steadily and efficiently. The friends will always
remember with deep gratitude the eminent services he has rendered the
Faith in this connection.
In view of these labours so devotedly accomplished, the Guardian wishes
your Assembly to urge the friends to draw full benefit from Mr.
Schopflocher's visit to India. He is confident that you will extend to him
a most hearty welcome, and will, through association with him, draw fresh
strength and inspiration in your arduous labours for the Cause.
September 25, 1936 Systematized and Nation-wide Teaching Campaign
Our beloved Guardian has read with intense interest and deepest
satisfaction your most welcome letter of the fifth October conveying to
him the joyful news of the teaching travels undertaken by Prof. Pritam
Singh and Dr. G.Y. Chitnis throughout India. He wishes you to congratulate
most warmly on his behalf these two distinguished friends upon their
determination to carry the Message to those numerous and varied sections
of the Indian population who have not received as yet the blessings which
the knowledge of the Cause confers. He is deeply grateful to them, and to
those who have, whether directly or indirectly, assisted them in the
pursuit of this truly noble aim.
The Guardian wishes also to express his heartfelt thanks to the Indian
N.S.A. for its splendid efforts for the extension of the teaching work
throughout India. The evidences of its warm and effective response to his
earnest appeal for the inauguration of a new systematized and nation-wide
teaching campaign in that country are indeed such as to give him fresh
hopes concerning the future expansion and consolidation of the Faith not
only in India and Burma but in the neighbouring regions where the light of
the Teachings has not yet penetrated. It is his sincere hope that the
National Assembly will, faithful to its pledge, continue exerting its
utmost for the furtherance of the cause of teaching in India, and
particularly in Southern India and Ceylon where there are almost no
centres at present. Nothing short of the unity, self sacrifice and
intelligent and systematized planning which the local and national
assemblies and also the individual believers may show forth throughout the
coming years can enable them to attain this vital teaching goal.
[From the Guardian:]
I hasten to assure you in person of my personal and intense satisfaction
and of my special and fervent prayers for these two stalwart pioneers who
have arisen to accomplish so noble a task in such difficult circumstances.
The hosts of the Abha Kingdom will assuredly guide and sustain them, and
will, if they persevere, crown their high endeavours with success. May
their example be followed by an increasingly large number of their fellow
workers.
October 22, 1936
Inflexible Determination Required
Now, that the teaching work is making a steady headway, the friends should
be on their guard lest they lose the opportunity they have of spreading
the Message in every corner throughout India and Burma.
In this connection, he feels, he must congratulate most warmly the members
of the N.S.A. for the valuable steps they have taken for the introduction
of the Cause in central and southern India.
[From the Guardian:]
The progress of the teaching activities initiated by your Assembly is
highly gratifying. Inflexible determination is required to carry it to a
successful conclusion. The methods adopted by the American Baha'i
community, the zeal, the initiative, the efficiency, the fidelity with
which they are prosecuting their enterprise should be exemplified by
individuals and Assemblies in India and Burma. The administrative
machinery which the American believers have erected and perfected has
already had its counterpart in the institutions you have so nobly reared
in recent years. Your teaching campaign, the supreme purpose for which
this machinery has been fashioned, should likewise be modelled according
to the plan which your sister community has devised and is now developing
so strenuously and successfully.
November 7, 1936
Welcome Extended to Mr. Schopflocher
He wishes me now to express in particular to you, and to your
distinguished fellow-members in the Indian N.S.A., his most loving
appreciation and thanks for the cordial welcome you have extended to our
dearly-beloved friend, Mr. Siegfried Schopflocher, during his visit to
India and Burma. He is confident that the steps you have taken to render
his trip successful will greatly help in giving the Faith a wide and
long-needed publicity. The opportunity that has been offered you has been
truly splendid, and you certainly deserve to be heartily congratulated for
having fully availed yourselves of it. May the Beloved reward you a
thousand-fold for your ceaseless and devoted endeavours in His Path.
January 7, 1937
Theosophists
With regard to the Theosophists and their activities; although they
obviously try to copy and claim as their own some of the principles of the
Cause, yet the Guardian feels that it would be of no advantage to oppose
them and to refute their arguments. The best attitude for the friends to
adopt in such cases at the present time is to totally disregard and even
neglect their opponents. This has invariably been his advice to the
friends, whether in the East or in the West.
Baha'i Holidays
Regarding the sale of tea and other refreshments in a cinema under
non-Baha'i ownership; those friends who have hired from the owner of the
cinema a stall for the sale of such refreshments should make every effort
to obtain permission to close on Baha'i holidays. In case, however, the
non-Baha'i owner or partner refuses to grant their request their only
alternative is to obey.
The case is different with a bread bakery owned by a believer. In this
case there can be no excuse whatever why the shop should not be closed
during Baha'i holidays, as there are always non-Baha'i bakers from whom
the public can buy.
Baha'i Administration
Concerning the LSA's right to suspend one of its members from Assembly
membership; the Assembly can, by a majority vote, take such an action,
even though the suspension may be for a long period.
As regards your question whether the President of the N.S.A. is entitled
to give any ruling during the period of his tenure; the Guardian wishes me
to state that no such ruling can be valid unless approved by the other
members of the National Assembly. The President has no special legislative
capacity, except as a member of the Assembly.
As to the question of removing a believer from the voting list; although
every duly constituted local Assembly has the right to take such an action
against any individual believer in the community, nevertheless the
Guardian feels the advisability for the Local Assemblies to seek the
advice and approval of the N.S.A. in this most delicate and vital matter,
as it is one fraught with grave and far-reaching responsibilities.
Before closing I wish to express to you, and through you to your
fellow-members in the N.S.A., how happy the Guardian feels to learn of the
strong preparations your Assembly has made for the holding of the next
Annual Convention of the friends in Karachi. He is the more rejoiced that
the main item of the discussions will be the problem of teaching. He is
fervently praying that the program upon which the delegates and the N.S.A.
will decide will mark the inauguration of an unprecedented teaching
campaign throughout India and Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
I am delighted to learn of the work which is being steadily and
efficiently accomplished in so many spheres of Baha'i activity throughout
India and Burma. My heart is filled with gratitude as I witness the
progress you have achieved, the enterprises you have initiated, the method
and measures you have adopted, the plans you have conceived and above all
the spirit of exemplary loyalty and magnificent devotion that impels you
forward in the great mission you are destined to fulfil.
February 28, 1937
Obligatory Prayers
...concerning the three daily obligatory prayers. The friends are free to
choose any one of these three prayers, but have to follow the instructions
revealed by Baha'u'llah concerning them. The long prayer should be recited
once in every 24 hours, and is accompanied by certain physical acts. The
short prayer, consisting of one verse, should be recited once a day at
noon; while the medium prayer should be said three times a day: in the
morning, at noon and in the evening. The believer is entirely free to
choose any one of these three prayers for daily use.
While praying it would be better to turn one's thoughts to the
Manifestation as He continues, in the other world, to be our means of
contact with the Almighty. We can, however, pray directly to God Himself.
April 27, 1937
Progress of Teaching Most Gratifying
The reports of the progress of the teaching work in India and Burma are
most gratifying, and all indicate the high measure of devotion and zeal
which the friends are putting at the service of this most noble and sacred
task. Dr. Ali of Rangoon is specially active working through the press,
and has already succeeded in giving a very wide publicity to the Faith in
many circles, both native and foreign. He is certainly the most promising
teacher we have in Rangoon, and the N.S.A. would do well to encourage him,
and to give him every possible assistance with the view of further
extending the scope of his teaching activities throughout Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
I am so glad ... of the progress of the teaching work in India and Burma.
I pray that Martha's forthcoming visit to your shores may greatly
stimulate the splendid work which has been so nobly initiated and is being
so painstakingly continued.
July 12, 1937
National Fund
I wish, in particular, to express his gratification at the success that
has attended your annual Convention this year, and at the recommendations
and decisions taken by the N.S.A. with the view of intensifying the
teaching campaign throughout India and Burma. He would strongly urge your
Assembly to maintain the standard of the teaching work, and to appeal to
the friends to rise up to the call of the hour, and to be ready to undergo
any sacrifice that their sacred task requires.
Above all he wishes through you to reiterate his wish, already expressed
in his recent cable to the N.S.A., that the National Fund, which
undoubtedly constitutes the bedrock upon which all the activities of the
Cause ultimately rest, should receive the continued and whole-hearted
support of all the believers. Both the local Assemblies and the individual
believers should realize that unless they contribute regularly and
generously to that Fund the progress of the Faith in India and Burma will
not only be considerably retarded, but will inevitably come to a
standstill. There should be a continual flow of funds to the National
treasury of the N.S.A., if that body wishes to properly administer the
manifold and ever-increasing activities of the Faith. Every Baha'i no
matter how poor, must realize what a grave responsibility he has to
shoulder in this connection, and should have confidence that his spiritual
progress as a believer in the World Order of Baha'u'llah will largely
depend upon the measure in which he proves, in deeds, his readiness to
support materially the divine institutions of His Faith.
With reference to your question in connection with the observance of
Baha'i Holy Days; the Baha'i day begins and ends at sunset. The night
preceding a Holy day is therefore included in the day, and consequently
work during that period is forbidden.
The Guardian is most delighted to hear of the activities initiated
recently by various local Assemblies in India, and wishes you to convey to
these dear friends, and particularly to Prof. Abdu'l-Aziz of Hyderabad and
the members of his teaching group, the expression of his keenest
appreciation of their labours for the spread of the Cause. He would urge
them each and all to lend every effort to assist your N.S.A. in its
nation-wide teaching endeavours, and is most ardently praying that they
may be assisted and guided by the confirmations from on high.
[From the Guardian:]
I am deeply touched by the varied and compelling evidences of the vigour
and loyalty which characterize the National Assembly's conduct of Baha'i
affairs in both India and
Burma. The Cause, as a result of their self-sacrificing endeavours and
inflexible resolve, is being firmly consolidated and widely propagated in
those regions. Perseverance will enable you to attain your goal and to lay
an unassailable foundation for your future work in both the teaching and
administrative spheres of Baha'i service. I will continue to pray for you
from the depths of my heart.
July 17, 1937
Martha Root's Teaching Trip
Shoghi Effendi has been most pleased to receive your letter of October
25th and to learn of the very warm reception you have accorded Miss Martha
L. Root upon her arrival in India. He has every reason to hope that with
the program the N.S.A. has so carefully arranged for her she will be able
to do an extensive teaching work, and to contact as many classes and
sections of the population as her time and energies permit.
The Guardian would call upon you specially to make every effort possible
to render Miss Root's teaching trip successful in every way, and wishes
you to continually urge the friends to make her visit an occasion for
giving the Faith a widespread publicity throughout India and Burma.
[From the Guardian:]
I am so glad to hear of the plans that have been conceived and the
activity that is being displayed by the friends in connexion with dear
Martha's visit to India.
November 7, 1937
He was particularly delighted to know of the warm hospitality and
wholehearted assistance which the friends have so kindly extended to dear
Miss Root all through her travels throughout India and Burma.
This truly memorable visit of Miss Root to the friends in that vast
continent is indeed a God-sent opportunity, of which the believers should
fully avail themselves in order to give the Faith the widest possible
publicity, and also to attract to it the attention and sympathy of
responsible leaders throughout India and Burma.
The Guardian will continue to pray that at the termination of this year
the results of this historic teaching trip undertaken by our beloved Miss
Root may prove to be such as to ensure for many years to come the
uninterrupted extension of the teaching work in all parts of India.
March 20, 1938
Resting Place of Holy Mother
It will surely please and interest the believers to know that the Holy
Mother's remains have been laid to rest in a spot in the vicinity of, and
overshadowed by the resting-place of the Greatest Holy Leaf on Mt. Carmel.
L.S.A. & Summer School in Simla
The Guardian was delighted to hear of the formation of a Spiritual
Assembly in Simla, and wishes that body to apply soon for official
registration. He would very much appreciate receiving two copies of the
Certificate of Incorporation of the Assembly, as soon as they are obtained
from the authorities.
The news of the projected holding of the first Indian Baha'i Summer School
in Simla has also considerably rejoiced the heart of our beloved Guardian.
He will pray that this excellent and indeed historic project may be
satisfactorily carried out, and receive the whole-hearted, generous and
sustained support of the entire body of the believers throughout India and
Burma.
Six-Year Plan
The Six-Year Plan which your N.S.A. has resolved to initiate with the
purpose of furthering the teaching work has met with the full approval of
the Guardian. He wishes your Assembly every success in this remarkable and
nation-wide undertaking which you have decided to launch.
[From the Guardian:]
Your letter of June 19, enclosing reports of great interest and value, has
also reached me and I am filled with a sense of happiness and gratitude
for these incessant evidences of your zeal and united endeavours. I am
truly impressed by the sound progress and expansion of the activities in
which the believers of India and Burma are so earnestly and devotedly
engaged. The institutions you have recently initiated, the plan of
teaching you have launched, the degree of unity, of consecration and
solidarity you have attained, the measures for internal consolidation you
have devised, the support you have consistently and cordially extended to
our dear Martha, all proclaim the depth of your devotion and attest the
nobility and staunchness of your faith. The utmost care is now required to
nurse, foster, multiply and coordinate these nascent institutions and
activities. Every nerve should be strained, every sacrifice should be made
to enable them to fructify and prosper.
July 4, 1938
First Indian Baha'i Summer School
I am instructed by our beloved Guardian to acknowledge with thanks the
receipt of your communication dated October 17th, together with the
enclosed report on the first Indian Baha'i Summer School held in Simla
during last September.
And as to the photographs of the Summer School you had submitted under
separate cover, these will be placed in the Mansion of Baha'u'llah at
Bahji, and will also appear in the "Baha'i World" Vol. VIII.
The Guardian wishes me in this connection to express his profound
satisfaction at the success that has attended the N.S.A.'s efforts for the
formation of this first Baha'i Summer School in India--a step which, he
strongly feels, is bound to accelerate the extension of the teaching
activities of the believers in that land.
He is truly delighted to know that the attendance at the school has been
satisfactory, and that the young believers, in particular, have been most
enthusiastic about it. What he feels now is most essential for the N.S.A.
is to make arrangements to have this school held regularly every year, so
that it may develop into an effective, and increasingly vital, instrument
for the propagation of the Faith, and also for the education and training
of Baha'i teachers.
It is the Guardian's fervent hope that as this Institution expands, and
fulfils the high hopes you all set upon it, it will be felt advisable by
the N.S.A. to consider the possibilities of establishing, in due time, one
or two more of such schools, thus permitting those friends, who in view of
their limited means are not in a position to travel over large distances,
to avail themselves of the benefits derived from these nascent Baha'i
institutions of learning.
Task Immense--Time Short
[From the Guardian:]
The Six-Year Plan, initiated by the National Assembly of India and Burma
with such spontaneous devotion, admirable zeal and unflinching resolve,
marks a milestone on the road of progress trodden by them and their
fellow-workers in both of those countries. The task is immense, the time
is short, the hour critical but the faith that animates and sustains them
is strong enough to surmount all obstacles, however formidable, that may
stand in their way. That they may persevere, redouble their efforts and
win signal success in their mighty enterprise is the dearest wish of my
heart and the object of my constant and earnest prayers.
December 1, 1938
Splendid Work Accomplished by Miss Root
The Guardian was most pleased to receive your letter of the 3rd inst. and
has noted with genuine satisfaction the farewell meeting which the N.S.A.
had arranged in Bombay in honour of our indefatigable and distinguished
Baha'i sister Miss Martha L. Root on the occasion of her departure to
Australia.
The feelings of unbounded joy with which you all unanimously acclaimed her
arrival in India, and the expressions of deep and sorrowful regret which
your National Assembly, as the official mouthpiece of all the Indian and
Burmese believers, had been moved to convey to her upon her leaving your
shores, all attest the high value which the friends have attached to her
presence in India and the splendid work accomplished by her throughout her
travels in that country. The cooperation she had received from the
Assemblies and individual believers in every centre she visited, and the
effective support, both moral and material, so lovingly and continually
extended to her by the N.S.A. in the execution of her teaching plans, have
contributed to a marked degree to the success of her journey, which has
been indeed the longest and most fruitful she had ever undertaken to your
shores.
The Guardian hopes that the friends, and in particular the N.S.A., will
now endeavour to follow up, with united and unflinching resolve, the
splendid work accomplished by Miss Root. The contacts she has formed with
leading personalities in social, religious and university circles should
be maintained, nay extended and consolidated, and every effort exerted in
order to speed up the progress of the teaching work which has received
such a fresh impetus as a result of her uninterrupted teaching activity
during this past year.
January 25, 1939
He has noted with profound appreciation, in particular, the account of the
farewell meeting held in Bombay under the auspices of your Assembly on the
occasion of the departure of our indefatigable and highly esteemed Baha'i
sister Miss Martha Root from India. No more eloquent tribute could have
been paid indeed to the historic work accomplished by that well-beloved
star-servant of the Cause during her stay of one full year in that country
than that beautiful and impressive gathering which had met to bid her a
last farewell upon her leaving your shores. The warmth and spontaneity of
your love must have profoundly impressed and moved her heart, and given
her an added proof of the unbounded gratitude which you all surely cherish
for her, after these many months of ceaseless teaching activity she has
spent in your midst.
The Guardian wishes to express his own gratitude to the members of the
N.S.A., and through them to the community of believers throughout India
and Burma for the hospitality and loving assistance you have all,
individually as well as collectively, continually extended to Miss Root
all through her stay in your country. The essential now, he feels, is for
each one of the friends, and particularly the local Assemblies, to arise
and with unflinching resolve to endeavour to follow up the splendid work
she has so ably, yet so unostentatiously, accomplished. They would be
certainly failing in their debt of gratitude to her, if they allow the
seeds she has faithfully and painstakingly scattered, during these months
of arduous and uninterrupted effort, to get lost. Rather, they should
spare no effort to water these seeds and enable them to germinate and
yield in due time most abundant and lasting results.
Baha'i Youth Groups
With regard to the formation of Baha'i Youth groups; the Guardian is most
pleased to hear of the satisfactory progress that has been accomplished
along this line, and of the extensive programme you have arranged for the
development of Baha'i Youth activity during the coming year. He wishes me
to express, in particular, his appreciation of the very warm response made
by six of these youth groups to the suggestion of the National Youth
Committee of America regarding the holding of special youth meetings on
the 26th of this month. He wishes you to assure them of his special
prayers for the success and confirmation of their efforts. Six-Year
Plan--Spontaneous Undertaking of Indian Baha'i Community
In connection with the Six-Year Plan initiated by your N.S.A.; the
Guardian cannot too highly praise this undertaking of unprecedented
magnitude which your Assembly has resolved to carry out. One year has
already elapsed since that Plan was first launched, and the task that will
have to be accomplished during the remaining five years is indeed immense,
and calls for no less than a combined and tremendous sacrificial effort by
every Assembly, group and individual believer throughout India and Burma.
But the friends should derive much encouragement at the realization that
their efforts for the prosecution of this Plan are, in a way, far more
meritorious than those which their fellow-believers in the American
Continent are exerting in connection with the Seven-Year Plan of the
American N.S.A.
Whereas this latter Plan, which, it should be fairly admitted, is the
largest enterprise of its kind ever undertaken by any national Baha'i
Community, has been conceived and formulated directly by the Guardian
himself, the Six-Year Plan adopted by the Indian N.S.A. has been initiated
solely through the efforts of the elected body of the national
representatives of the Indian and Burmese believers, and represents
therefore the spontaneous undertaking of the Indian Baha'i Community
itself, and as such is endowed with a special merit and a unique spiritual
potency. When successfully completed this Plan will constitute indeed an
abiding monument to the resourceful energy, the unstinted devotion, and
the unquenchable enthusiasm of the Indian Baha'is, from which future
generations of believers in that land will derive endless inspiration and
guidance.
In view of the paramount importance of this Six-Year Plan, and the urgency
which the friends must undoubtedly feel to carry it out as speedily and
efficiently as possible during the remaining five years, the Guardian
would advise that in the next Annual Convention meeting in Calcutta a
special session be devoted to the findings and consideration by all the
delegates and friends present of such policies and means as, in their
considered opinion, can best insure the speedy and timely completion of
this glorious undertaking.
The Guardian would particularly suggest that special stress be laid on the
necessity for pioneer teaching in those states and provinces in India and
Burma, where the Cause has not yet been introduced. Those believers who
have the means, and also the capacity to teach, should be encouraged, no
matter how great the sacrifice involved, to settle in these virgin
territories, until such time as a local assembly has been constituted, or
at least a group of firm believers formed that can safely and gradually
evolve into a firmly-organized and properly-functioning local assembly.
This policy of teaching by settlement which the Guardian has also advised
and indeed urged the American believers to adopt has been proved by
experience to be the most effective way of establishing the Faith in new
territories, and he therefore confidently recommends it for adoption by
your Assembly.
Summer School
As regards the Indian Summer School; its importance, the Guardian feels,
cannot be overstressed, specially in view of its recognized teaching
value, both as a centre for the training of Baha'i teachers, and also for
the attraction of outsiders to the Cause. The wide popularity which this
newly-established yet highly-promising institution is already enjoying,
truly attests its high value as one of those vital institutions of the
Faith in this formative age of its development.
David
...The David referred to by the Bab, and stated by Him to have preceded
Moses, is not the same one as King David, the father of King Solomon, who
lived in the tenth century B.C. and who obviously lived many years, and
indeed many centuries after Moses. Abdu'l-Baha has explained this in a
Tablet.
Inheritance
...Although in the "Questions & Answers" Baha'u'llah has specifically
stated that non-Baha'is have no right to inherit from their Baha'i parents
or relatives, yet this restriction applies only to such cases when a
Baha'i dies without leaving a will and when, therefore, his property will
have to be divided in accordance with the rules set forth in the Aqdas.
Otherwise, a Baha'i is free to bequeath his property to any person,
irrespective of religion, provided however he leaves a will, specifying
his wishes. As you see therefore it is always possible for a Baha'i to
provide for his non-Baha'i wife, children or relatives by leaving a will.
And it is only fair that he should do so.
Reason of Severe Laws Revealed by the Bab
...The severe laws and injunctions revealed by the Bab can be properly
appreciated and understood only when interpreted in the light of His own
statements regarding the nature, purpose and character of His own
Dispensation. As these statements clearly reveal, the Babi Dispensation
was essentially in the nature of a religious and indeed social revolution,
and its duration had therefore to be short, but full of tragic events, of
sweeping and drastic reforms. These drastic measures enforced by the Bab
and His followers were taken with the view of undermining the very
foundations of Shi'ah orthodoxy, and thus paving the way for the coming of
Baha'u'llah. To assert the independence of the new Dispensation, and to
prepare also the ground for the approaching Revelation of Baha'u'llah the
Bab had therefore to reveal very severe laws, even though most of them,
were never enforced. But the mere fact that He revealed them was in itself
a proof of the independent character of His Dispensation and was
sufficient to create such widespread agitation, and excite such opposition
on the part of the clergy that led them to cause His eventual martyrdom.
The Bab specified that the "Bayan" is not completed and that "He Whom God
would manifest" (Baha'u'llah) would complete it, though not in its actual
form, but only spiritually in the form of another book. The "Iqan" is
believed to be its continuation.
February 17, 1939
Teaching--The Paramount Task
He is truly delighted to know that your Annual Convention this year has
been most united, and highly constructive and fruitful in its result, and
trusts that the important discussions and deliberations held by the
delegates at various Convention sessions will have the result of
stimulating afresh the progressive and systematic penetration of the
teaching work throughout India and Burma. The Six-Year Plan of teaching
inaugurated last year by your N.S.A., the Guardian feels, however, cannot
succeed unless it receives the continued moral and material support of the
entire body of the Indian and Burmese believers, and it is this fact which
the National Assembly should continually endeavour to impress upon them
all, through frequent appeals destined at once to encourage and provide
the facilities required for all those friends who are qualified to work in
the field of pioneer teaching. The Guardian would particularly recommend
that the N.S.A. should make every possible effort to open up to the Cause
those Indian provinces which still remain deprived of the light of the
Teachings, and to this end would suggest that those believers who can
arrange to settle in those virgin territories should at once be urged to
do so, and the necessary facilities extended to them by the N.S.A., with
the view of enabling them to prolong their stay until some definite
results are accomplished. Also, he feels, your Assembly should endeavour
to strengthen the weak areas which have been recently opened, and also
launch a wide and systematic campaign for the dissemination of Baha'i
literature throughout the whole country. Membership in Baha'i Assembly or
Committee is a Sacred Obligation
...The Guardian wishes you to make clear to all the believers that
membership in a Baha'i Assembly or Committee is a sacred obligation which
should be gladly and confidently accepted by every loyal and conscientious
member of the Community, no matter how humble and inexperienced. Once
elected to serve in a given Assembly a believer's duty is to do his utmost
to attend all Assembly meetings, and cooperate with his fellow-members,
unless, however, he is prevented from doing so by some major reason such
as illness, and even then he should notify the Assembly to this effect.
The N.S.A.'s duty is to urge, and also facilitate attendance at assembly
meetings. If a member has no valid reason to justify his repeated absence
from assembly meetings, he should be advised, and even warned, and if such
warning is deliberately ignored by him, the assembly will then have the
right to suspend his rights as a voting member of the Community. Such
administrative sanction would seem to be absolutely imperative and
necessary, and while not tantamount to a complete expulsion of such a
member from the Cause, deprives him of any real participation in its
administrative functions and affairs, and is thus a most effective
corrective measure which the Assembly can use against all such
half-hearted and irresponsible individuals in the Community.
Meaning of Resurrection
...Concerning the meaning of "Resurrection": although this term is often
used by Baha'u'llah in His Writings, as in the passage quoted in your
letter, its meaning is figurative. The tomb mentioned is also allegorical,
i.e. the tomb of unbelief. The Day of Resurrection, according to Baha'i
interpretation, is the Judgement Day, the Day when unbelievers will be
called upon to give account of their actions, and whether the world has
prevented them from acknowledging the new Revelation.
The passage in Baha'u'llah's Tablet in which He explains the Sura of "The
Sun" should not be interpreted literally. It does not mean that after the
Day of Resurrection praise and peace will cease to be vouchsafed to the
Prophet. Rather it means to the end of time, i.e. indefinitely and for all
times.
The intercession spoken of by Baha'u'llah in one of His prayers which you
have quoted is a purely spiritual act and is applicable to Muhammad as
well as to all Prophets. This passage, however, refers more particularly
to that kind of intercession in which Muslims believe, though the manner
and circumstances of it, according to Baha'i belief, are mysterious and
unknowable.
Teaching--The Paramount Task
[From the Guardian:]
I long to hear of the progress of your teaching work in those areas and
provinces where the light of the Faith has not as yet shone forth.
Teaching is the paramount task that urgently demands the concentrated
attention and the complete consecration of the united and persistent
efforts of the believers of India and Burma at the present stage of the
Six-Year Plan which they of their own accord have so magnificently
initiated. No dissipation of efforts, no delay in the initiation and
execution of the necessary measures for its success should be allowed. All
assemblies, all committees and individuals should regard the teaching work
as the most essential factor in the discharge of their obligations to the
Faith of Baha'u'llah, and as the supreme purpose of the machinery of the
Administrative Order which they have lately so laboriously and faithfully
erected. I will from all my heart pray that the high aim they pursue may
be reached, that their hopes may be fulfilled, and that their individual
and corporate lives may equally reflect the noble principles that animate
their Cause.
July 2, 1939
Martha Root's Arrival in Bombay
Your joint and welcome message of October 18th written on the occasion of
our beloved sister Miss Martha Root's arrival in Bombay has duly reached
the Guardian and his heart is filled with gratitude to you for the very
warm and befitting welcome you have so kindly extended to that
well-beloved star-servant of the Cause. This is truly in keeping with the
tradition of warm hospitality for which our Indian believers have already
won such a high reputation. The cordiality you have shown this
distinguished international teacher on her previous visits to India could
have hardly been surpassed, and there is every reason to believe,
therefore, that on this trip, which will be probably the most extended one
she has ever been able to undertake throughout that continent, she will be
the object of the same devotion and love manifested towards her on
previous occasions.
[From the Guardian:]
May the Almighty bless you for the magnificent welcome accorded to such an
outstanding champion of the Cause, and may He enable you, in conjunction
with her, to lend a mighty impetus to the progress of the Faith and the
extension of its institutions.
November 4, 1939
Paramount Task Facing the Believers
What you had written him regarding the various steps taken by the N.S.A.
to further the Six-Year Plan of Teaching has immeasurably rejoiced his
heart, and he too joins with your Assembly in humbly supplicating
Baha'u'llah to vouchsafe to all those dear friends who have offered to
undertake pioneer teaching in various parts of India such measure of His
guidance and blessings as would enable them to effectively further the
interests of this Plan. He would urge you all to persevere in your
self-sacrificing exertions, and, notwithstanding the various handicaps
under which you may be compelled to labour, to confidently strive to
achieve this high teaching objective.
[From the Guardian:]
The energetic prosecution of the Six-Year Plan, despite the perils, the
uncertainties and gravity of the present hour, is the paramount task
facing the believers of India and Burma. All projects and activities,
however desirable and urgent, must henceforth be subordinated to this most
pressing and vital issue, inasmuch as it is the fountain-head from which
all future blessings will flow and the one and only instrument which can
at the present time, most effectively establish and consolidate the
administrative order of the Faith throughout the Indian Peninsula. My
prayers for your signal success in such a mighty and glorious enterprise
will continue to be offered, with increasing fervour, at the Threshold of
Baha'u'llah. Persevere and be confident.
November 26, 1939
Passing Away of Dearest Martha
Your very kind message ... expressing your profound sorrow and sympathy at
the passing away of our beloved sister Miss Martha Root has just reached
our dear Guardian, and he feels indeed most deeply touched by the very
thoughtful words which you had been moved to convey to him. The loss which
the entire Baha'i world has come to sustain through her untimely departure
from this world is indeed enormous, and can be compensated only partially
by the self-sacrificing efforts which our dear Baha'i teachers in East and
West are now exerting in their respective fields of teaching.
The Guardian's hope, however, is that, spurred by the noble example of
Martha's life and character, the friends in every land will make a supreme
and united effort to carry onward the great teaching task which she had so
untiringly been endeavouring to accomplish during all these years, and
thus bring eternal joy and impart infinite hope and solace to her heart in
the other world.
[From the Guardian:]
I deeply appreciate, and am greatly touched by, the noble sentiments you
have expressed. The passing of dearest Martha, that distinguished hero of
the Cause of Baha'u'llah, is indeed a great loss to those who labour for
His Cause, both in the East and West. May her glorious example continue to
inspire the friends in India and Burma to tread in her footsteps, and to
extend the work she so nobly initiated.
December 8, 1939
Sacred Task
It greatly pleased and encouraged him to know that the Annual Convention
held this year in Poona has proved such a high success, and that the
important decisions taken by the delegates with the view of intensifying
the teaching campaign in India and Burma are being effectively implemented
by the offer made by so many of the friends to teach and travel in virgin
territories. He wishes these dear believers, who have so heroically
responded to the call of the hour, every blessing and success in their
respective fields of teaching, and will pray most earnestly for the
confirmation of their labours in the pursuit of their high and sacred
task.
May 14, 1940
Steady Extension of the Teaching Campaign
The slow yet steady extension of the teaching campaign throughout India is
a matter which greatly rejoices his heart, and for which he feels moved to
convey his warmest congratulations to the N.S.A. Considering the well-nigh
insufferable obstacles in your way, and the difficult conditions created
by the war, the progress so far achieved, though small, has been
remarkable in many ways, and augurs well for the future of the Six-Year
Plan which your Assembly is so energetically carrying out.
The signal success which the able and untiring efforts of Mr. & Mrs.
Bakhtiari, Mr. M. H. Ilmi ... have won for the Cause in Kashmir deserves
particular mention; and it is to be hoped that the group already
established in that center will steadily develop and soon attain the
status of a Spiritual Assembly. To these dear teachers who have so
successfully accomplished such high teaching mission, as well as to our
new Baha'i brother Moulvi Abdullah of Kashmir who, notwithstanding the
violent opposition and criticisms of the Qadianis has firmly stood by the
Cause, the Guardian wishes you to convey his warmest appreciation and
gratitude.
Financial Assistance to Baha'i Teachers
In connection with your teaching campaign, the Guardian wishes you to
inform the N.S.A. that although there exists in the Cause no such
institution as that of paid teachers, the N.S.A. nevertheless should, in
view of the urgent and pressing requirements of the Six-Year Plan, extend,
though only temporarily, any financial assistance in its power to those
believers who offer to undertake pioneer work throughout India and Burma.
Also, those believers who are not themselves able to offer their services
as pioneers, and who wish to directly and effectively participate in the
campaign of teaching can instead offer to defray, through the National
Fund, the expenses of any believer they choose to deputize for that
purpose. Such deputy teachers, however, should for all other purposes be
responsible to the N.S.A. and the teaching bodies concerned. Great Message
Can Redeem Bewildered Humanity
[From the Guardian:]
I regret that owing to present circumstances arising from the war and its
grave repercussions, the activities, particularly in the teaching field,
connected with the Six-Year Plan, so spontaneously initiated by your
Assembly, have had to be curtailed. I wish to appeal, however, to all its
members, and through them to the general body of the devoted friends in
India and Burma to make a united and supreme endeavour to overcome, while
there is yet time, the obstacles that stand in their way, and to refuse to
allow the perils, the uncertainties and anxieties that face and afflict
their country to deter them from carrying out the original plan they have
so nobly conceived. Let them remember that a firm resolution on their
part, an absolute rededication of their resources, and an actual attempt
to translate into action their meritorious intentions, coupled with
perseverance in the discharge of their duties, would suffice to ensure the
success of the mission to which they are now committed. The time is indeed
ripe, and the minds and hearts of the suffering multitudes are being
mysteriously prepared for the Great Message that can alone redeem, exalt
and regenerate a sore-tried and bewildered humanity. I will specially and
fervently pray for the success of any and every effort the dearly-beloved
friends in India and Burma may arise to exert.
November 28, 1940
Translation of Baha'u'llah's Writings
Regarding his instruction to the N.S.A. of Iran to the effect that
Baha'u'llah's writings in Arabic should not be translated into Persian;
this applies to the translation of the revealed words into Persian only.
Your Assembly, therefore, may proceed with its plan for the rendering of
the Tablet of Ahmad, the three daily obligatory prayers and other Tablets,
into Urdu.
. . . .
With reference to ... question whether it is permissible for the Baha'is
to see pictures; there is nothing in the Teachings that would forbid such
a practice.
. . . .
Also with regard to the practice of circumcision; the Teachings bear no
reference to this matter, and it is therefore not enjoined upon the
believers.
Training of Children
The question of the training and education of children in case one of the
parents is a non-Baha'i is one which solely concerns the parents
themselves, who should decide about it the way they find best and most
conducive to the maintenance of the unity of their family, and to the
future welfare of their children. Once the child comes of age, however, he
should be given full freedom to choose his religion, irrespective of the
wishes and desires of his parents. Membership of the International House
of Justice
As regards the membership of the International House of Justice,
Abdu'l-Baha states in a Tablet that it is confined to men, and that the
wisdom of it will be revealed as manifest as the sun in the future. In any
case the believers should know that, as Abdu'l-Baha Himself has explicitly
stated that sexes are equal except in some cases, the exclusion of women
from the International House of Justice, should not be surprising. From
the fact that there is no equality of functions between the sexes one
should not, however, infer that either sex is inherently superior or
inferior to the other, or that they are unequal in their rights.
Appearance of two Davids
Concerning the appearance of two Davids; there is a Tablet from
Abdu'l-Baha in which He says that just as there have been two Ishmaels,
one the son of Abraham, and the other one of the Prophets of Israel, there
have appeared two Davids, one the author of the Psalms and father of
Solomon, and the other before Moses.
Importance of the Teaching Campaign
The Guardian wishes me once again to stress the all-importance of the
teaching campaign throughout India and Burma. Much as he is aware of the
obstacles that stand in the way of the expansion of pioneer
teaching--obstacles which your sister Assembly in the U.S.A. are far in a
better position to overcome, owing to the larger resources at their
disposal and to their longer and wider experience in matters of
teaching--he nevertheless strongly feels that, through the united,
determined and passionate resolve of your N.S.A., of all the local
Assemblies, groups and individuals, much can be accomplished in that
direction, and firm foundations laid down for future expansion and
consolidation. The greater your handicaps the firmer your determination
should wax, and the more abundant will assuredly be the blessings and
confirmations of Baha'u'llah. May His love and guidance lead you and our
dearly-beloved friends in that land to still greater heights of selfless
accomplishment in His path, and thereby crown with success the Six-Year
Plan so ably devised and so energetically pursued by the N.S.A.
[From the Guardian:]
I wish to reassure you in person of my fervent and continued prayers for
the protection, the success and the spiritual advancement of the community
of the Indian and Burmese believers who, under your direction, and
stimulated by the initiative and example, of their national elected
representatives, are arising, in these days of widespread confusion,
turmoil and danger, to carry out the Plan they are pledged to fulfil. No
sacrifice can be regarded as too great for the attainment of so great and
splendid an objective. They should persevere in their task, undaunted by
the rising tide of calamity and despair which afflicts the world, and
which is mysteriously paving the way for its unification and ultimate
redemption. May the Beloved guide every step you take, and bless every
endeavour you exert in His path.
December 14, 1940
Greatest Need of the Hour
Whenever the Guardian receives news of the spread of the Cause it brings
him fresh hope and helps to lighten his heavy burden. This is the greatest
need of the present hour in India; more teachers in new fields! His
prayers are always being offered for the advancement of this all-important
work and the fulfilment of the Six-Year Teaching Plan.
April 19, 1941
Priceless Days
He was very happy to note the spirit of true and profound dedication to
their holy task of spreading the Faith in India and Burma which the
members of the N.S.A. manifest, and he feels sure that, if they exert the
utmost effort, they will, through the confirmations of Baha'u'llah,
succeed in fulfilling what is required of them under the Six-Year Plan.
He regrets very much that circumstances have prevented any active
furtherance of the teaching work during the past Baha'i year. Because of
this the Guardian felt impelled, after reading your Assembly's letter, to
transmit by cable the sum of two hundred pounds sterling to be set aside
by your Assembly as the nucleus of a special fund to be established for
the specific purpose of furthering the all-India teaching campaign of the
Six-Year Plan. He trusts that this will stimulate the body of Indian and
Burmese Baha'is to also contribute to this fund generously and by
providing the necessary means to enable them to speedily fulfil the task
they have vowed to carry out.
Concerning the methods to be adopted for the realization of your urgent
task, Shoghi Effendi approves of the suggestion that some business firms
open branches in new districts and thus provide Baha'i settlement by this
means. However, he feels that this will not be enough, and that all the
Spiritual Assemblies, as well as each individual believer, should rally to
this great opportunity which, indeed, may not again be presented to them,
of spreading the Faith through the length and breadth of India while they
are still in a position to do so. The world is day by day becoming
increasingly involved in this cataclysmic struggle, but so far the Baha'is
of India, Australia, New Zealand and the American continents have not felt
either the dangers or the restrictions imposed on less fortunate
communities which find themselves either over-run and temporarily
eclipsed, or in the actual theatre of war. Therefore the believers of
India should not allow these truly priceless days to slip by without
exerting themselves to the utmost and sacrificing comfort, home, and
money, to the great duty of giving the Divine Message to the people of
their vast country.
Smallness of numbers, lack of skilled teachers, and modesty of means
should not discourage or deter them. They must remember the glorious
history of the Cause, which, both in East and West, was established by
dedicated souls who, for the most part, were neither rich, famous, nor
well educated, but whose devotion, zeal and self-sacrifice overcame every
obstacle and won miraculous victories for the Faith of God. Such spiritual
victories can now be won for India and Burma by the friends. Let them
dedicate themselves--young and old, men and women alike--and go forth and
settle in new districts, travel, and teach in spite of lack of experience,
and be assured that Baha'u'llah has promised to aid all those who arise in
His Name. His strength will sustain them; their own weakness is
unimportant.
Refrain from Imposing New Rules
In reading your annual Convention report the Guardian has noted the
request made that the N.S.A. should lay down certain rules of procedure.
He has already informed the American N.S.A. that they should henceforth
refrain from laying down any further rules and regulations, as these would
tend to rigidify the affairs of the Cause and ultimately obscure its
spirit and retard its growth. He feels that your Assembly should exercise
the same care, and avoid introducing any rules of procedure not already in
existence. Every case coming before the Assembly should be judged on its
own merits, and be decided individually without any recourse to new
rulings.
The Guardian will constantly pray for the success of all your
undertakings, as well as for the welfare and progress of all the dear
believers in India and Burma. Particularly will he remember in his prayers
the members of the National Assembly who are called upon to direct,
coordinate, and carry out the Indian Baha'is' great and noble teaching
enterprise. Prosecute Six-Year Plan With Unremitting Energy
[From the Guardian:]
The Six-Year Plan, which you have so nobly conceived and so
enthusiastically initiated, must, during these crucial years, when the
first century of the Baha'i Era is drawing to a close, be prosecuted with
unremitting energy, and unshaken determination. The vastness of the field,
the smallness of your numbers, the indifference of the masses, must
neither discourage nor appal you. You should at all times fix your gaze on
the promise of Baha'u'llah, put your whole trust in His creative Word,
recall the past and manifold evidences of His all-encompassing and
resistless power and arise to become worthy and exemplary recipients of
His all-sustaining grace and blessings. I appeal to every Indian and
Burmese believer, however modest his position, however limited his
knowledge, however restricted his means, to rise to the height of this
great opportunity which if missed will not recur again. To disperse, to
settle, to teach by word and deed, to persevere and sacrifice are the
requirements of the present hour. May the Almighty, Whose Cause you are
labouring to advance, endow you and your fellow-workers with all the
wisdom, the strength, and guidance that you need to acquit yourselves
worthily of this task.
June 29, 1941
Shoghi Effendi was also very happy to hear from you that you consider the
Faith is making substantial progress in India, due to the tireless and
devoted efforts of our Baha'i brothers and sisters in that land. He would,
however, urge the friends to follow the example of the American believers
by sending out more pioneers to work in territories where there are no
Baha'is. This is in accordance with the idea expressed by the beloved
Master in the "Divine Plan" Tablets, and should be followed by all
Baha'is.
The Guardian will pray for the success of the Summer School to be held in
Surat. He is delighted that the Indian friends are so well organised and
are, year by year, strengthening the administrative institutions of their
Faith.
[From the Guardian:]
I am eagerly and hopefully awaiting to witness fresh evidences of the
renewed determination of the believers throughout India and Burma, to
carry aloft and into virgin territories the torch of Divine Guidance
despite the dark clouds that threaten on the horizon. In these days of
stress and peril, every effort expended, every victory achieved, every
sacrifice made, will be rewarded a hundredfold. I will pray earnestly and
continually that the friends may evince such zeal and perseverance as to
ensure the complete success of the Six-Year Plan which they, of their own
accord, have so splendidly initiated.
October 5, 1941
Every Obstacle Should Be Surmounted
He was very happy to receive so much good news of the progress of the
Baha'i teaching work in India, as well as the success of the Summer
School.
The fact that the friends of India, and also of Iran, are now finding
themselves in a position where they can arise and teach the Cause far and
wide, greatly cheers the Guardian's heart. He hopes that the Baha'is of
India, in spite of the fact that the war is now so close to their native
land, with all its attendant dangers and problems, will allow nothing to
deter them in their prosecution of their Six-Year Teaching Plan for India
and Burma.
Now is the time of true test and trial--the time when the friends must
follow in the footsteps of the first Persian believers, who, heedless of
comfort and even life itself, raised the Banner of Baha'u'llah's Faith
aloft, for all the world to see and follow.
He feels confident that the believers, led by their National Spiritual
Assembly, and aided and inspired by their Local Spiritual Assemblies, will
arise to new heights of service, and distinguish themselves in the eyes of
the Baha'i world. His constant prayers will be offered on their behalf,
and he will remember them in the Shrines with love and yearning for their
success.
[From the Guardian:]
I wish to add a few words in person and appeal to you, and through you to
the dear friends in Burma and India, not to allow, despite the increasing
gravity of the international situation and the dangers that threaten the
East, the work, which has been so enthusiastically initiated, to suffer
through any relaxation of effort, or any deflection of purpose, on the
part of any individual or Assembly. These perils, sufferings and
commotions are blessings in disguise, which pave the way and prepare the
hearts of those who face and sustain them for a deeper realization and an
earlier and fuller acceptance of the Divine Message of Baha'u'llah. The
opportunities are manifold and priceless. Every effort should be exerted,
every sacrifice should be made, every obstacle should be surmounted.
December 16, 1941
It rejoices his heart to see that the Indian believers are now rising to
such noble heights of self-sacrifice and utter devotion to the Faith of
God, and that they are, despite the great difficulty of these war times we
are living through, determined to fulfil their Six-Year Plan of teaching
the Baha'i Cause in India and Burma and complete the spread of its divine
and healing message to her peoples before the end of the first Baha'i
century.
Persecution of Baha'is of Kadwai
He was very sad to hear of the persecution of the Baha'is of Kadwai by the
fanatical Muslim population. Please convey to the friends there the
assurance of his most loving prayers for their protection, and tell them
that, though they are suffering for their Faith, this very persecution is
a blessing to the believers of India, as we know that wherever the Cause
has suffered it has always grown stronger and attracted more attention and
more adherents.
He was also very pleased to hear of the success of the Summer School this
year. The Indian Baha'is have every reason to feel encouraged by the
marked progress of their activities in all fields.
Use of A'rabs (Vowel Points)
Regarding your question as to the use of A'rabs on the Arabic texts of the
Tablets: The Guardian feels that this is a matter which concerns the
entire Baha'i world, and requires to be worked out by a highly specialized
group of qualified people at some future date. He, therefore wishes you
not to print the A'rabs on the Holy Tablets except on rare occasions where
it is absolutely necessary in order to distinguish the word from some
other word just like it.
Two Davids
Abdu'l-Baha is the one who has interpreted the reference of the Bab
concerning David, by saying that there were two Davids, one of them was
the author of the Psalms. The Tablet in which the Master states this is
absolutely authentic, but at the moment the original is not available.
He Whom God Will Make Manifest
The Bab said that whenever "He whom God will make manifest" appears,
accept Him. He never said don't accept Him until after the lapse of 1000
years. Also Baha'u'llah says that in the year 9 of the Babi Dispensation
the time was ripe for the Revelation of "He whom God will make manifest".
As the Bab was not only a Manifestation but a Herald of this Baha'i Faith,
the interval between His Revelation and that of Baha'u'llah was of shorter
duration. His Dispensation in a sense will last as long as Baha'u'llah's
lasts.
The Holy Book--The Aqdas
There are no doubtful verses in the Holy Book, the Aqdas. The reason it is
not circulated amongst all the Baha'is is, first, because the Cause is not
yet ready or sufficiently matured to put all the provisions of the Aqdas
into effect and, second, because it is a book which requires to be
supplemented by detailed explanations and to be translated into other
languages by a competent body of experts. The provisions of the Aqdas are
gradually, according to the progress of the Cause, being put into effect
already, both in the East and the West.
Use of A'rabs (Vowel Points)
No vowel points, as A'rabs, should be published with any part of the text
of the Aqdas. Certain of the Tablets may be translated in Urdu, but not
the Aqdas itself, for the reasons mentioned above.
Writings of the Bab
The books of the Bab have not as yet been printed in the original. Except
for the Bayan, the Seven Proofs and Commentary on the Surih of Joseph, we
cannot be sure of the authenticity of most of His other works as the text
has been corrupted by the unfaithful.
The Universal House of Justice
The Universal House of Justice is elected by the members of the National
Houses of Justice. At this time when the National Assemblies in the Cause
are not yet functioning sufficiently or fully representative of all the
various important elements within it, and when some of the Baha'is are not
even free to practise their faith, despite their numbers, it is quite
impracticable to seek to establish the Universal House of Justice.
Whenever conditions permit, it will be established.
Surmount Every Obstacle
The Guardian wishes the members of your Assembly to persevere, in spite of
the dangers of the war now raging near to India, in the all-important task
of fulfilling the Six-Year Plan.
He is confident that the friends of India and Burma like their Baha'i
brothers and sisters of other lands, will surmount every obstacle,
overcome every difficulty, and emerge victorious at the end of the first
Baha'i Century.
[From the Guardian:]
The news conveyed by your latest communication has rejoiced my heart. The
manner in which the friends have arisen to promote the teaching work
throughout their country merits the highest praise. By their enthusiasm,
their self-abnegation, the determination and vigour they display, they
have lent a fresh impetus to the onward march of the Faith and the
expansion of its institutions and the multiplication of its administrative
centres. The perils of the present hour, the repercussions of this
tremendous world ordeal on their native land, must, in no wise, alarm or
discourage them. Their purpose must never be deflected, their enthusiasm
never dimmed, their vision never obscured, their exertions never
discontinued. Adversity prepares the hearts of men, and paves the way for
a wholehearted and general acceptance of the tenets and claims of our
beloved Faith. Challenged by the obstacles in their path, encouraged by
work already initiated, assured of the Divine Promise of Baha'u'llah, let
them forge ahead until their goal is attained. My prayers will ever
surround them.
December 27, 1941
Remarkable Evidence of Activity
He has been greatly encouraged by the work the Indian believers are doing
in the pioneer teaching field. It makes him proud to behold the way this
great eastern nation is arising, through its enlightened Baha'is, to serve
the Cause of God, and is fast pushing to the forefront of Baha'i service,
and becoming an example and an inspiration to the other Baha'i communities
in the Orient and Far East.
The noble response the Indian friends are making to his appeals has
encouraged him to send them further donations for their teaching work, and
he trusts that, under the indefatigable leadership of the National
Spiritual Assembly, they will redouble their efforts, and push on to the
full and glorious completion of the Six-Year Plan they laid down for
themselves with such courage and devotion.
The establishment of the Hyderabad Assembly and that of Bangalore are
great steps forward, and the Guardian is waiting hopefully to receive the
good news of more new spiritual Assemblies in this coming Baha'i year.
He was also very pleased to hear that the Summer School is becoming an
institution of national importance, and that the friends are increasingly
attending it and realizing its great value in the life of the entire
Community of believers. In a country such as India it might grow to be the
first permanent institution of Baha'i learning if the believers support it
sufficiently and carry out their teaching campaign with whole-hearted
devotion and zeal; for, with the influx of many new Baha'is into the Cause
in that country, it should not be difficult to evolve it into a Baha'i
university as time goes by.
The Guardian wishes to convey, through you, his loving appreciation of
their noble services to all the dear Indian believers who have gone out as
pioneers and teachers in these momentous days. He will remember them, and
all the Indian friends, in his prayers in the Holy Shrines, and supplicate
for them a victorious conclusion for their Six-Year Plan by 1944.
[From the Guardian:]
I have been greatly heartened in my arduous task by the remarkable
evidences of activity, devotion and perseverance which the believers in
India have lately manifested, and by the manner in which they have arisen
to promote the cause of our Beloved, and extend the range of its
institutions. I admire, their spirit, and feel truly proud of their
achievements. The field is indeed vast, and the problems manifold, but the
spirit they have demonstrated will, if kept alive, enable them to surmount
every obstacle. My prayers will continue to be offered on their behalf and
particularly for those who are planting the banner of the Faith in virgin
territories. How glorious their task, how meritorious their
accomplishments.
January 10, 1942
Future is Blessed and Glorious
He was very relieved to hear from Mr. Butt that the Burmese Baha'is were
all safe, and he trusts that, in spite of the grave dangers now so near
them, God will continue to over-shadow them and protect them in His mercy
and wisdom.
We Baha'is are indeed most blessed in that we know that, however dark the
days immediately ahead of the human race, the future is blessed and
glorious. It is for this future that the believers must labour day and
night, heedless of the state of the world and the dangers threatening.
The Guardian will continuously pray that Baha'u'llah will strengthen and
guide the Indian friends to succeed in their teaching plans, and to
persevere in their efforts until they have completed the Six-Year Plan.
[From the Guardian:]
In these days when perils are fast gathering about India and Burma my
heart and my thoughts turn increasingly towards the friends, and
particularly those who are vigorously and devotedly promoting the
interests of the Six-Year Plan. I will specially and fervently pray for
them all, that their vision may not be obscured, that their efforts may
not diminish, that their courage many remain undaunted, and their
steadfastness and loyalty unshaken. The greater their problems and
anxieties and the more formidable the obstacles in their way, the more
glorious and abundant will be the recompense and blessings that will be
bestowed upon them by their all-seeing, their all-bountiful, all-powerful
Master.
February 23, 1942
New Assemblies of Hyderabad & Kotah
The Guardian has written the new Hyderabad Assembly, and he will indeed
pray for their protection and blessing. They are an important group in an
important State, and he hopes that your Assembly will render them every
assistance and help possible, in order to deepen them in the knowledge of
the teachings and in Faith.
The establishment of the Assembly of Kotah, no less than that of
Hyderabad, must be viewed in the light of another milestone in the forward
march of the Faith in India. The Guardian would like you to convey to all
the dear pioneers and teachers whom you have enumerated in your letters,
the expression of his deep gratitude for, and appreciation of the
wonderful work they are doing. The believers of India, though few in
number in relation to the millions that form their nation, are performing
a service to their fellow-countrymen which in the future will be seen in
the true magnitude. Let them rest assured and toil ceaselessly for the
establishment of the Faith which they serve, and which alone can
ultimately heal the ills of sorely-tried mankind.
[From the Guardian:]
The pioneer activities in which the friends in India are so steadfastly,
so energetically and so devotedly engaged, in spite of the perils, the
uncertainties and the stress of the present hour, are a marvellous
evidence of the indomitable spirit that animates them in the service of
the Cause of Baha'u'llah. Perseverance is the magnet that will, in these
days, attract the promised blessings of the Almighty Author of our beloved
Faith. Unity and harmony constitute the basis on which the structure of
these activities can securely rest. Self-sacrifice, audacity, undeviating
adherence to the essentials of the Faith, will reinforce that structure
and accelerate its rise. That the dear friends in India are increasingly
demonstrating the quality and depth of their faith and the character and
range of their accomplishments is a source of intense satisfaction to me,
and I will continue to supplicate our Beloved to guide their steps, cheer
their hearts, illumine their understanding, and fulfil their highest and
noblest aspirations. He indeed is well pleased with the record of their
past services, and will, if they redouble their efforts, enable them to
achieve a signal victory.
June 27, 1942
Prizes to be Won
...The extremely good news of the way the Baha'is of India are arising and
serving in new fields in spite of the war conditions prevailing, and the
formation of the new Assemblies of Hyderabad and Kotah, the work in
Kashmir and various other centres, has all greatly cheered his heart, and
impelled him to contribute the sum he forwarded through you to help carry
out the many teaching enterprises now under way. The rate at which the
Indian believers are advancing is increasingly entitling them to a
position in the foremost ranks of the Faith, and will no doubt greatly
inspire and encourage other Baha'is of the East to follow their example.
Such prizes are to be won in these days of universal trial and suffering,
and it makes the Guardian very happy to feel that some of them are
evidently going to be merited by the Indian believers!
It is a great deprivation that the friends should be cut off from their
devoted fellow-Baha'is in Burma. We can only hope and pray that
Baha'u'llah will protect and watch over them until the ordeal of these
times is past, and the faithful believers the world over can again join
hands and work together for the peace and progress of the entire world.
Passing of Abd'ul-Jalil Beg Saad
The passing of Abd'ul-Jalil Beg Saad was a great loss to the Faith in
Egypt, and the Guardian was pleased to hear that his co-workers in India
held memorial meetings for him. Such occasions constitute eloquent
testimonials to the profound love that binds Baha'is to each other,
whoever and wherever they may be.
Painstaking and Fruitful Efforts
[From the Guardian:]
I wish to reaffirm my deep sense of satisfaction and gratitude for the
sustained, the painstaking and fruitful efforts exerted so far by the
Indian believers for the promotion of the Six-Year Plan. The limits of the
Faith have been enlarged, the centres and groups have multiplied, and the
determination and zeal of the prosecutors of the Plan are visibly
increasing. I am greatly cheered and encouraged, and will, with redoubled
fervour, pray at the holy Shrines, for the victorious conclusion of the
campaign initiated with such devotion, energy, and resolution. May the
Beloved sustain them in their noble task.
July 27, 1942
The marked, and extremely encouraging, progress which the Cause is making
in India has so pleased the Guardian and cheered his over-burdened heart
that he felt impelled to forward to your Assembly the sum of two hundred
pounds to be expended for the further promotion of the teaching work.
That at such a time, when dangers threaten on every side and the whole
planet is plunged in war and confusion, the Indian believers should, so
steadily and patiently, with such devotion and enthusiasm, pursue their
tasks of teaching under the Six-Year Plan, is, indeed, a cause for
universal acclaim and rejoicing on the part of their fellow-Baha'is. They
are ever increasingly arising to take their place as one of the foremost
Baha'i Communities, and their spirit and their accomplishments are
arousing the envy and the admiration of their fellow-workers in Eastern
lands.
Placing of Burial Stone
The placing of the burial stone on the dead has no other significance than
to emphasize our profound conviction that our souls come from our Creator
and to Him they return, and in Him we believe and trust.
Ensure the Triumphant Conclusion
[From the Guardian:]
The accomplishments of the believers of India, in virgin fields and in
furtherance of the interests of the Six-Year Plan, merit the highest
praise. Prompted by their achievements, and as a token of my keen
appreciation of their notable services, and in order to facilitate further
expansion and consolidation of their teaching activities, I have forwarded
to you a contribution which I trust will serve as a nucleus for a Fund
designed to promote the vital and urgent interests of the nation-wide
teaching enterprise in which you have embarked, and which constitutes the
greatest single organized undertaking launched in the service of
Baha'u'llah in that country. Perseverance, coupled with a spirit of
complete dedication to the cause of teaching, will, I feel confident,
ensure the triumphant conclusion of your labours. I will continue to pray
for you from the depths of my heart. Redouble your efforts and be
confident.
July 29, 1942
Proper Administrative Headquarters
Concerning hi
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