Volume 054: Akka 1293 A.H. (1876), Part I (1 of 3)

BH02055: A Book from Our presence unto him who desireth…

In His Name—the All-Protecting, Who watcheth over all that are in the heavens and on the earth

A Book from Our presence unto him who desireth to aid the Cause of God, when the Dayspring of Revelation came with verses the comprehension whereof hath eluded all who dwell in the world, save whomsoever God— the King, the All-Powerful, the Most High, the Most Great—hath willed.

Blessed art thou for having turned unto the Dayspring of Revelation and been attracted by the fragrances of the verses of thy Lord, the Almighty, the All-Powerful.

Say: In the name of God and by God, take thou the chalice of divine knowledge in the name of thy Lord, the All-Merciful, and drink therefrom first, then give to drink them that dwell in the realm of possibility through this Name whereby the limbs of existence trembled and the hearts of the doubters who cast the Command of God behind their backs and followed their own idle fancies. Turn thy face with such steadfastness as will cause all faces to turn towards God, the Lord of all worlds.

Arise and say: O people! By God, the Promise hath come and He Who was promised hath appeared with such sovereignty as neither the might of princes nor the clamor of divines could withstand. He calleth the world in the Most Great Prison unto God, the King, the All-Knowing, the All-Informed. Say: O people! Turn not unto the world and what is therein; soon it shall perish, and that which shall endure is what hath been ordained by the Most Exalted Pen for him who hath believed in God and acknowledged His sovereignty that overshadoweth all who are in the heavens and on earth. Say: Cast aside what ye possess and take what ye are bidden by One Who is Mighty, All-Knowing. Thus have We adorned the horizon of utterance with the light of explanation that thou mayest thank thy Lord and be of them that arise in such wise that sitting shall not hold thee back from this Cause whereby the horizon of unity was illumined and the faces of the deniers were darkened.

God willing, drink ye at all times from the fountain of divine knowledge and bestow with wisdom and utterance upon the people of the world the sealed wine whose seal hath been opened through the blessed Most Great Name. Most people you will observe to be as infants—were they given strong food at first, they would perish and never reach maturity. They must be given the milk of divine knowledge from the breast of wisdom until they attain true maturity, which is the station of the rending of veils. His mercy hath preceded all things and His grace hath encompassed the worlds. God willing, be ye cupbearers of the wine of divine knowledge among the people of the world and be ye so enkindled by the fire of the divine Tree that all regions may be ignited therefrom and attain unto the love of God and recognition of the Sun of Truth. This is not difficult for God.

All that is witnessed in the world shall perish and vanish save for deeds that are manifested today for God’s sake—these shall endure as long as the kingdom of earth and heaven endure.

Say: Glory be to Thee, O God, Lord of the world and Master of the nations! I beseech Thee by the Most Great Name to assist me to serve Thy Cause that I may guide the servants to the shore of the ocean of Thy oneness and bring them nigh unto the Dawning-Place of detachment through Thy Name and Thy sovereignty. O my Lord! Thou art the Gracious, possessed of great bounty. Ordain for me that whereby my mention shall endure among all mentions and my spirit among all spirits. Verily Thou art the Cleaver of dawn and the Sender of winds. There is no God but Thee, the Almighty, the All-Giving, the Ever-Forgiving, the All-Bountiful.

BH04432: Night and day all people would beseech and supplicate…

In the name of the peerless Lord, the All-Glorious

Night and day all people would beseech and supplicate with utmost humility and imploration the Self-Sufficient, the Exalted, yearning and hoping to attain the presence of the Manifestation of the divine Revelation and the Dawning-Place of the heavenly inspiration. Yet when the Sun of Truth dawned and the heaven of bounty was raised up and the ocean of generosity appeared, all remained veiled, nay, turned away, save whom thy Lord, the All-Knowing, the All-Informed, willed.

However, the opposition and veiling of souls does not prevent the Truth from His all-compelling purpose and His prevailing Will. He doeth whatsoever He willeth and ordaineth whatsoever He desireth. Thus, even after the opposition and objection of kings and others, in every age the fire of the divine Tree hath enkindled the hearts of the servants, such that now in most lands the standards of His Cause are raised up. The murky waters of the objections of heedless souls cannot extinguish this fire; rather they cause it to blaze more fiercely. Verily He turneth it with oil. He, verily, is the Almighty, the Powerful.

Blessed art thou for having turned to the Most Exalted Horizon and for having attained the days of God, the Lord of Names, and for having heard His sweetest call when every misbeliever and doubter turned away. We beseech God to assist thee to remember and praise Him and to acquaint thee with that which is hidden from all eyes. Make mention of God with wisdom and utterance, that the slumberers who are intoxicated with the wine of passion may be awakened, until they were kept back from the horizon of guidance. Thus doth the Wronged One make mention of thee while imprisoned in the hands of the wicked. Blessed is he who hath rent asunder the veils and turned toward God, the Mighty, the Bestower.

BH05024: Praise be unto the Omnipotent, Self-Subsisting One, Who through…

He is the Ever-Abiding without decline

Praise be unto the Omnipotent, Self-Subsisting One, Who through the blessed and goodly Word that dawned from the horizon of the All-Merciful Will, brought all creation from nothingness into the realm of being. This Word hath been God’s balance amongst His servants and the straight path for people of insight and guidance. In one station this Word hath been called by all the most beautiful names, and in another station it hath been sanctified from all, for the Manifestation and Dawning-Place of the Word hath been the Divine Manifestation among creation. And in another station the Word itself is the Manifestation.

For this Word, which is the Pivot of the Book of God, two stations have been ordained in creation and law. The first station tells of the Manifestation of God amongst His servants, for all divine commands and prohibitions appear from Him. Whosoever turns to Him hath turned to Truth, and whosoever turns away is accounted among the turn-aways in the Book of God.

Blessed is he who today attains unto the Word of God and His Manifestation, who grasps the Most Firm Handle and turns toward the Most Exalted Horizon—he is assuredly among the sincere ones. God willing, may you, through the grace of the All-Merciful, arise with utmost effort and endeavor to exalt the Blessed Word, and set ablaze the people with the fire of the love of God.

BH06974: God willing, may you drink at all times…

He is the Most Holy, the Most Great

God willing, may you drink at all times from the Kawthar of the knowledge of the Lord of all beings, and becoming intoxicated with this most pure and luminous Kawthar, may you be occupied in the gathering of the world with the remembrance of the Pre-existent Lord, that perchance the heedless servants may become freed from their suppositions and idle fancies and turn toward the horizon of the inspiration of the eternal Sovereign. Praise be to God that the fragrance of the perfumed garment has been diffused and the Sun of bounty has risen. Blessed is he who has found and attained. Woe to those who remain veiled!

Say: Glory be unto Thee, O God, Lord of existence! I beseech Thee by Thy Name through which Thou hast subdued all who are in the unseen and the visible, to assist me to be steadfast in all conditions, that I may be a speaker of Thy mention and praise and a herald of Thy Cause. Verily Thou art the One with power over whatsoever Thou willest. There is none other God but Thee, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. Then I beseech Thee by Thy Self to ordain for me that which will profit me in the next world and in this one. Verily Thou art the Almighty, the Dominant over earth and heaven. There is none other God but Thee, the Ever-Forgiving, the Bountiful.

BH06912: Praise be to God that, through the blessing…

He is the One Who has power over what was and what shall be

Praise be to God that, through the blessing of the Most Great Name, the Kawthar of divine knowledge is flowing and coursing throughout creation from the Fountain of the Pen of the All-Merciful. Whosoever has turned to it purely for the sake of God has attained to divine bounties and heavenly favors.

This is the Day when the supreme Touchstone has appeared and separated true from false, the felicitous from the wretched, the receptive from the hostile. How many were the divines who claimed knowledge and wisdom, yet after the Sun of knowledge and wisdom dawned, all remained veiled and even turned away, save whom thy Lord willed. This is why it was said aforetime:

“We shall make their highest ones their lowest ones, and their lowest ones their highest ones.”

Today, whosoever has attained to the recognition of God, glorified be His majesty, is reckoned among the people of divine knowledge before the All-Merciful. Apart from this none has had nor shall have any portion. He is verily the Expositor, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

BH07585: The entire world hath been created specifically…

In the Name of the All-Seeing, All-Knowing

The entire world hath been created specifically for the recognition of the Ancient King, and there is no doubt that His recognition cannot be attained except through recognition of the Manifestation of His signs and the Dawning-Place of His evidences, inasmuch as the Ancient Being hath ever been and will forever continue to be sanctified, in His state of absolute transcendence and loftiest exaltation, from manifestation and appearance, from ascent and descent. Therefore, whosoever hath today turned unto the Manifestation of the Divine Self and the Source of heavenly knowledge hath turned unto the Truth, and whosoever hath turned away hath turned away from God, exalted be His glory. Blessed is he who hath attained unto this most exalted station and this most sublime and resplendent horizon, and woe unto the heedless. Through the grace and favor of the Beloved of all creation, may your honor be successful at all times in attaining the supreme gift and greatest bounty, which is the recognition of the Manifestation of God’s commandments. Verily, He is the All-Bountiful, the Bestower, the Generous.

BH08637: Most of the people of the world have claimed…

In His Name, the Most Holy Above All Names

Most of the people of the world have claimed and continue to claim knowledge of the Pre-existent Lord. However, after the rending of veils and removal of clouds it became clear and evident that the diverse parties of the world were walking in the wilderness of vain imaginings and the desert of idle fancies, remaining far and veiled from the straight path and mighty way of God. Blessed is the state of the soul who today has held fast to the cord of divine love and has drunk from the choice wine of heavenly knowledge. Such a one is indeed among the essence of creation in the sight of the Truth. Upon him be the glory of God, the Sovereign, the Mighty, the Praiseworthy. God willing, that honored one may be illumined by the dawning lights of the morn of inner meanings and occupied with the remembrance of the Beloved of all horizons. He is verily the Protector of whoever turns to Him and the Illuminator of the hearts of the sincere ones.

BH00519: Praise be to God Who hath uttered His Most…

In the Name of our Lord, the All-Compelling, the Most Powerful, the Most Exalted, the Most Glorious!

Praise be to God Who hath uttered His Most Exalted Word, whereupon the seas surged, the winds were stirred thereby, the mountains took flight, the trees put forth their leaves, the pebbles glorified Him, and all things spoke forth that there is none other God but Him, the Single, the One, the Mighty, the Bestower. Verily it is the Fire of God unto him who turned away and erred, and the Light of God unto him who turned towards Him and was guided. Blessed is he who turned unto it, attained to the knowledge thereof, and sought refuge in its presence. Verily it is the Word through which were created all who are in the heavens and the earth, and all who are in the kingdoms of authority and creation. Indeed it is the essence of proof in the realm of possibilities and the reality of evidence unto the followers of all religions. Through it the proof was perfected, the bounty completed, the heavenly table sent down, and distinction made between all created things. Exalted, exalted be its sovereignty! Exalted, exalted be its greatness! Exalted, exalted be its penetrating influence! Exalted, exalted be its power! Exalted, exalted be its dominion! Exalted, exalted be its grace! Exalted, exalted be its mercy which hath encompassed all who are in earth and heaven!

My spirit be a sacrifice unto you, O Afnan of the Blessed Tree! His honor Haji Ahmad and his honor Mirza Hasan have been honored to attain the Most Great and Most Exalted House upon their return from the Most Great and Most Resplendent House, bearing with them a letter from your honor. This ephemeral one was honored by it and attained to its contents, and presented it before His Countenance. The Tongue of Grandeur spoke concerning the mention of His Afnan in such wise as I am powerless to recount. His Self, which dominateth the world, and His Essence, which hath ascendancy over all the worlds, bear witness to this. God willing, may you be the recipient in all conditions of the special favors of the Beloved of the worlds.

As to what was written concerning the cawing of the opposers and the braying of the deniers, in all ages it hath been thus—most people are heedless and ignorant, and have placed the reins of their minds and hearts in the hands of the ignorant like themselves. Therefore they have remained deprived of all heavenly bounties and divine favors, and are unaware of it. Woe unto the leader and the led, the seeker and the sought! However, even some of the loved ones of God have not acted according to what God desired. In truth, the matter is as your honor hath written—had the loved ones of God acted according to what God desired, most people would now be adorned with the robe of faith. Yea, by God, this is the truth in which there is no doubt!

Observe how in most Tablets all were commanded to wisdom, and all were enjoined to virtuous character, refined manners and goodly, acceptable deeds. Nevertheless, some have transgressed the bounds set by God and have become the cause of the clamor and outcry of the people. One day as I stood before the Throne, He mentioned the martyrs of that land, and repeatedly from the Most Holy Tongue—upon them be the glory of God—was heard their praise. Then He said that although they were martyred in the path of God and their martyrdom was accepted, they had somewhat exceeded the bounds of wisdom. Verily He is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed. In most cities during the past year, the friends themselves have been the cause of commotion, despite being counseled in most Tablets to observe wisdom, patience, calm, and that whereby the Cause of God, the Compelling, the Self-Subsisting, may be exalted. Among other things, the friends have been forbidden from turning towards the Most Holy Court, and an explicit prohibition hath been revealed in the Book that none should turn hither without permission. Nevertheless, there are now more travelers than emigrants in this land.

The esteemed Haji, if granted an audience, will submit that had they been focused on the Cause of God and had they seen their own wills as non-existent and as naught before the will of the Ancient King, the banners of the Cause would now be raised in all lands. Moreover, whatsoever occurs in opposition to God’s Cause yields no benefit, and its harm reverts to those who perpetrate it. Furthermore, the gathering of people in this land has even brought harm to the Blessed Tree itself, as the departure from the Land of Mystery caused the friends to gather in that land. However, this word was repeatedly heard from the Tongue of Grandeur, Who said that whatever befalls the presence of the Throne becomes the cause of the exaltation of the Word of God, as has been witnessed thus far.

After arrival in this land, which is the prison, an order was issued from the source of oppression that none should meet with anyone, such that even the barber could not attend to the prisoners to shave their heads without guards present. Thus did the Desired One of all worlds not visit the bath for several months. But now it has come to pass that the friends may go to any city they wish, except for the Ancient Beauty Who remains confined to His house and associates with no one. The rest, including the Two Most Great Branches—may the spirit of all worlds be sacrificed for them both—and the other friends, may go wherever they wish, with no hindrance whatsoever. Verily, He is the One with power over whatsoever He willeth. He is indeed the One Who prevails over whatsoever He pleaseth. His command is effective, His decree is current, and His will hath dominated the heavens and the earth.

However, this evanescent servant has acquired a small plot outside the city and has planted therein, according to his means, various flowers and plants, that perchance it might become a greater vista and the Ancient Beauty might grace that place with His presence. But until now He hath not accepted. The command is in His hands. O my Beloved! The heart is in great combustion and the very foundations are in evident upheaval, for it is witnessed that the Holy Being for Whose servants the whole world was created dwells in the prison of His enemies and is outwardly forbidden. I fear that His honor might become saddened by the abundance of petitions submitted. In all conditions, we look to His honor’s pardon.

That which was written concerning the good conduct of the loved ones of that land, that they act with wisdom and pleasing manners, brought boundless joy. God willing, may they at all times gaze toward the horizon of the Cause and act in accordance with the revealed wisdom. I swear by the Sun of Truth that if the opposing servants were to become aware of even less than a mustard seed of the stations of God’s loved ones, they would assuredly circle around each one of them. Their sight hath been clouded by vain desires which have prevented them from God, the Lord of all worlds. This abasement sufficeth for the heedless souls who for years and centuries, day and night, beseeched and supplicated for the appearance of the Manifestations of the Self-Sufficient, the Most High, yet when the Truth Itself appeared and the horizon of the Cause shone forth, all remained heedless, turned away and veiled, save whom God, the Lord of all worlds, willed.

This servant was exceedingly grateful and pleased with the loved ones of that land who, despite the transgressions of the oppressors, the objections of the wicked, and the clamor of the corrupt, remained patient and did not transgress beyond the wisdom they were bidden to observe. Upon them be the glory of God, His favors and His grace. That which befell your honor and the loved ones of that land is known and evident at the Most Holy Court, as hath been mentioned time and again, and it hath been said that ere long the power of the oppressors, the might of the rulers, and the dominion of the aggressors shall pass away and perish, and the Cause of God shall be seen to prevail and triumph over all.

And concerning what you wrote about some of the friends whose property was taken and who made no complaint—there would be no harm if they were to lodge a complaint with perfect propriety and wisdom, for the matter would have one of two outcomes: either they would listen or they would not. If they listened, they would have acted justly, and if they did not listen, God’s proof would be complete against those souls and the oppression of the friends would become apparent and manifest. This matter would have its effect in the world itself. A word was heard from the Most Pure Tongue indicating that there is fear that an affliction greater than the afflictions of previous years may encompass the land of the opposers and deniers. It appears this affliction will come after the appearance of a sedition that will become manifest in certain lands, as can be understood from certain revealed verses.

The greetings of this evanescent servant to the loved ones of God depend on your honor’s favor. God willing, all should gaze toward the Most Merciful with perfect joy and fragrance, serenity and assurance. By God, besides Whom there is none other God, all good returneth unto them and the infinite outpourings of the Lord are directed toward them. The clamor of the opposers is, as people say, like the yellow sun on the edge of roofs—its effect is visible but soon it shall pass away and perish. God willing, may they remain firm at all times and moments in the Cause of the Beloved of the worlds with complete steadfastness, and be vocal in His remembrance. What more can I say of this evanescent servant’s longing and yearning to see your exalted handwriting—I hope this favor will not be withheld. My spirit be a sacrifice for your tribulations, O Afnan of the Tree of the Cause, and my soul be a sacrifice for your sorrows, O Afnan of my Beloved and the Beloved of the worlds.

Another matter to report is that the samovar and items that were with Jinab-i-Haji Ahmad arrived, and specifically they commanded that the samovar be kept for the days of the Festival so that all may drink tea from it in remembrance of the Beloved. Likewise, the rice that Jinab-i-Shaykh, upon him be the Glory of God, sent arrived without defect. We beseech God to assist him in the Cause and draw him near to Him in all conditions, and to ordain for him that which He loves and is pleased with. Verily He is the Lord of the hereafter and the former times, there is no God but Him, the Most High, the All-Wise. The rosewater too was specifically preserved for the Festivals as commanded, and upon its arrival, after one day the Blessed Beauty made use of it. Blessed is it, that is, the rosewater and its sender.

Likewise, at a specific time, this servant gained admittance to the Most Holy Court and, on your behalf, performed the visitation, and its acceptance was uttered from the blessed tongue. Another matter to report is that from Jinab-i-Rafi’ Badi’, upon him be the Glory of God, a petition arrived at the Most Holy Court, as well as from other souls, but since Tablets specifically for them had previously been revealed and sent, They said that God willing, later a response would be revealed and sent. On behalf of this ephemeral servant, convey wondrous and glorious greetings to Jinab-i-Rafi’, upon him be the Glory of God, and likewise to the other loved ones.

The Most Glorious Glory be upon you, O Afnan of God, the All-Compelling, the Self-Subsisting.

The servant of God, 19 Safar 1293

BH00549: Praise be to God Who is one in His…

He is the Most Holy, the Most Impregnable, the Most Great, the Most Exalted!

Praise be to God Who is one in His command and single in His judgment. All atoms bear witness that there is none other God but Him. He hath ever been alone in His unity, exalted in His transcendence, glorified in His majesty, and unique in His singularity. He hath no partner in His sacred commandments, nor any peer in His revealed ordinances. By His sovereignty He doeth what He willeth, and by His command He ordaineth what He pleaseth. He is indeed the Single, the One, the Powerful, the Supreme, the Self-Subsisting.

Praise be to God Who hath spoken through His mighty verses and commanded all humanity to follow that which was revealed therein, and forbidden all from following self and idle fancy. He is verily the Lord of the hereafter and of this world, the Lord of the throne on high and of the earth below. His penetrating Will and His all-encompassing Purpose have embraced all things. The armies of the world cannot frighten Him, nor can the clamor of nations dismay Him. None is to follow save that which hath been revealed in the Books and Tablets. There is none other God but Him, the Powerful, the Most Great, the Most High, the Most Mighty, the Most Glorious, the Best-Beloved.

And furthermore, thy letter hath reached this evanescent servant, and I was near to soaring upon the wings of longing when I discovered therein the fragrance of the love of the Best Beloved of all worlds. I opened it and read it, and presented it before His countenance, and laid before God, the Lord of the Day of Separation, that which was contained therein. When the letter was concluded, the Tongue of Grandeur spoke that which indicated His grace and favors unto you, and His mercy and bounties upon you. It was as though I had, in that moment, drunk from the utterance of our Lord, the All-Merciful, that which no pen can describe. Exalted is His mercy, magnificent His favor, great His beneficence, and all-encompassing His grace. Verily, He is the All-Forgiving, the All-Bountiful.

God willing, through the loving-kindness of the Best-Beloved of the worlds, may ye ever gaze toward wisdom and that which will promote harmony among the loved ones. I express this in Persian that all the honored ones, the beloved ones, and the friends of the Truth may grasp the matter. Although the holy Tablets revealed from the heaven of God’s Will have been sent down in both Arabic and Persian in such wise that they need no expositions from the likes of this servant, yet since certain contrary matters have been heard, it therefore becometh necessary, nay obligatory, upon this servant to set forth that which is right and proper, so that those things which cause tumult and clamor among men may not come to pass.

In most of the Tablets, the Truth, exalted be His grandeur, hath commanded all to observe wisdom and hath forbidden abominable deeds and inflammatory matters that cause strife, conflict, corruption and the perturbation of people. He hath entirely removed the decree of killing, and in the Most Holy Book, which was revealed from the holy Kingdom, He hath commanded that all should associate with the followers of all religions in the utmost spirit of joy and fragrance, that perchance those who have gone astray may turn toward the horizon of the All-Merciful and become free and delivered from darkness, error, and the desires of self and passion.

Observe ye now in what station the Cause of Truth dwelleth and in what wilderness the imaginings of men reside. I swear by the holy Being of Truth that in His most holy court there hath never been, nor is there, conflict, corruption, killing and strife, and He hath forbidden all from these abominable things. He hath even said:

“Whoso acteth contrary to that which hath been revealed in My Book from the heaven of My Will, he is not of Me.”

How then could there issue forth from the Source of the Cause, or from those related to Him, a decree of killing or aught else that hath been explicitly forbidden in the Book? We seek refuge in God from this! Again we seek refuge in God from this! May God protect us and you from such matters.

How greatly was your non-acceptance of this accepted at the Divine Throne! Today all must look to the horizon of the Cause and to that which hath been revealed in the Tablets. The words of speakers and the imaginings of the doubtful have not sufficed and will not suffice. Ye have witnessed that whenever an abominable thing occurred, it became the cause of harm to the loved ones and the veiling of weak souls. Verily His mercy hath preceded the world, His loving-kindness hath encompassed the world, and His favors have embraced the world. Blessed art thou, then blessed art thou, for having shunned this abominable matter. If the loved ones were to become aware of the power, the might, the majesty, and the all-encompassing knowledge of God, they would never speak of such matters nor engage in such deeds, for God is indeed able to accomplish whatsoever He willeth. Verily, He is the All-Powerful, the Almighty.

The killing of an unbelieving oppressor is not permissible today, let alone anyone else. Indeed, some simple-minded souls, following their own imaginings, intend to harm any helpless person whom they suspect of opposition, and consider this as rendering victorious assistance to the Cause. Nay, by God! This was not and is not assistance to the Cause. Assistance today consists of goodly deeds, praiseworthy conduct, and unifying words—this has been and will continue to be so, as revealed and recorded in most of the Tablets. You must surely strive with the utmost effort and care to unite hearts, bring about agreement among souls, and follow what has been revealed in the Book, so that all may dwell in one pavilion and speak with one voice. This that has been stated is what is beloved before God. He Himself suffices as a witness unto Me, He Himself suffices as a witness unto what I say, and He Himself suffices as One who knows what I say.

Jinab-i-Nazir came to the Holy Land and dwelt in its vicinity. I swear by the Sun of Truth that I never heard from him a word about the aforementioned Mirza except once when he mentioned to this servant that he hoped some favor might be shown so that he might attain to the honor of certitude. This servant presented this same request before the Throne. Moreover, the honored Kalim, may my spirit be a sacrifice for him, would mention his association and meetings with the said Mirza, and I never heard any expression of dissatisfaction from him, let alone anything else. Beyond this, respect for the owner of the place where the said Mirza resides has been necessary, as numerous Tablets were revealed for them from the heaven of divine will in successive years.

The details regarding the honored Nabil’s attention to those parts was that after Nazir’s departure from the Most Holy Presence to Haifa, which is located three parasangs from this land, the honored Nabil went to accompany him. Afterward, Nazir wrote a letter to this servant from there saying that it was intended here that he would take Nabil with him, requesting permission from the Source of Authority. This servant presented this, and it was said that this permission is conditional—you must observe wisdom in all conditions. This servant wrote to them accordingly as commanded, and that letter is still available.

This much I submit: causing corruption has not been and is not assistance to the Cause of God. He aids His Cause through His own Self; verily He is the Helper, the Powerful, the Mighty, the Wise. The loved ones of God are commanded to teach the Cause, which is true assistance, and the purpose of this command is that all may attain the exalted station of “whosoever quickens a soul is as though he has quickened all humanity.” I request that some of the loved ones observe this servant’s letter so they may become informed.

Another submission: a Tablet has been revealed from the heaven of will specifically for you and will be sent later. All who circle round the Throne, both residents and travelers, all send greetings to you. The conveying of greetings from this ephemeral one to the loved ones of that land depends upon your love. To the honored and exalted master, the honored Nabil, upon him be the Glory of God, I offer endless greetings. His mention has been and is in the prison. We hope, God willing, that he will ever remain oriented toward service to the Cause and attain to what He loves and is pleased with. The One God is witness that they have not been and will not be erased from view. We beseech God to gather us in one dwelling place and one station. Verily, He has power over all things.

As to your request for permission to attain His presence, when it was mentioned He said: The essence of the Cause today is the recognition of the Manifestation of God Himself. Praise be to God, you have attained unto this. And after that, service to the Cause, which is the mention of God, exalted and glorified be He, and the promotion of His Cause—praise be to God, you have attained unto this as well. Now strive diligently to foster unity among the loved ones of God in that place. This matter is and has ever been most beloved in the sight of the Wronged One, for unity is the cause of the exaltation of God’s Cause, and discord is other than this. We beseech God to assist thee to make mention of Him and to serve His Cause, and to ordain for thee that which shall exalt thee in truth. Verily, He is the All-Wise, the All-Knowing. The Glory be upon thee and upon the sincere loved ones of God.

The servant [of God] 19 Safar 1293

The Most Holy Branches of the Divine Lote Tree—may my spirit and the spirit of all the worlds be sacrificed for them—conveyed their most glorious and sublime greetings to you.

Regarding the matter of Aqa Mirza Muhammad-ʿAli, wherein Nabil ruled that Hadrat-i-Kalim had said such and such—would that thou hadst been present before the Throne of Revelation and heard the words of God, the Self-Subsisting, addressing the aforementioned Nabil. Among other things He said:

“Thou hast made Kalim My partner. By God, the Self-Subsisting! If anyone were to slay one of the Branches, I would not consent to his execution. Thou hast set aside all these divine utterances and accepted the word of Kalim.”

Furthermore, upon investigation it became clear that such a ruling had never been made by Jinab-i-Kalim. Should you observe anyone speaking contrary to the divine utterances revealed in the Arabic and Persian Tablets, accept it not, regardless of who they may be or what they may say, especially in matters that cause agitation and disturbance among the people. In all cases, fix your gaze upon the Cause itself, not upon what issueth from the mouths of men.

BH03128: The Supreme Pen hath, in most of the Tablets…

In the Name of the Peerless Friend

The Supreme Pen hath, in most of the Tablets, enjoined wisdom upon the loved ones of God, and hath made wisdom the very foundation. Nevertheless, some have transgressed therefrom and have caused the barking of dogs and the clamor of the masses, as you have heard. Had the accepted servants acted according to the commandments of the Lord of the Worlds, surely the fragrances of the chastisement would have encompassed the idolators and hypocrites. Although Jamal, upon Him be the Glory of God, intended to assist the Cause, yet since it occurred contrary to God’s command, it became the cause of the veiling of many. Most people are weak—at the mere utterance of a word they become agitated and fearful. In this Day no helper for the Truth has been or is mightier and more powerful than wisdom. Blessed is he who has turned unto it and has held fast unto it by the command of his Lord, the Ordainer, the All-Knowing.

Strange that some souls have not yet realized that the appointed time is fixed—it neither hastens nor tarries. Today everyone must follow God’s command and nothing contrary to wisdom should proceed from him. In such case, should the manifestations of tyranny and wickedness arise to shed his blood, no harm shall come to pass, for it will have occurred in the path of God, and every soul shall taste of the cup of death. And if this inevitable decree occurs for the sake of God, it is surely better and more beloved. The strong must at all times be mindful of the weak. Verily His mercy has preceded all worlds.

Blessed art thou for having fulfilled God’s Covenant and held fast unto the wisdom wherewith thou wert commanded in the Books and Tablets. Gladden the loved ones in that land with divine favors and heavenly bounties. There hath befallen them what befell God’s chosen ones of old. We were truly witness.

Convey My greetings unto H. Verily he is among those mentioned before the Throne. Upon him be the Glory of God, the Lord of the worlds, and upon thy other brother, and upon those who are with thee, and upon the loved ones of God, the Almighty, the Self-Subsisting.

BH05512: Your letter reached the Most Holy Court. May you…

He is the Expositor, the All-Knowing, the All-Informed!

Your letter reached the Most Holy Court. May you drink in all times from the cups of mystic knowledge of the All-Merciful—a drinking that none in all the world can prevent.

O Rida! Great is this Day and mighty is this Cause. I swear by the Dawning-Place of God’s infinite knowledge, were people to become aware of the mysteries of this Day, they would all detach themselves from the world and all therein, and turn toward the most exalted horizon.

Be not grieved by what hath befallen you, for the world and whatsoever hath occurred and will occur therein are all transient and will pass away. But that which hath appeared from you in the path of God shall endure and remain forever. Be patient in God as the Beloved of the world was patient in this mighty prison. God willing, you should return to your homeland with perfect assurance and gladden all the loved ones with the divine utterances’ fragrances.

Say: O friends! Today steadfastness is beloved, for the cawing of the crows shall be silenced as hath been revealed in the Tablets of God. You must stand firm in God’s Cause with perfect steadfastness and be adorned with His virtues. Verily He is the Remembrancer, the All-Knowing, the All-Informed.

He hath written down for thee the reward of attaining His presence, and ordaineth for thee what He loveth and is pleased with. Thy Lord is verily the Almighty, the Bestower, the Forgiving, the Generous.

BH05856: The Most Exalted Pen declares: That which thou didst…

In the Name of the Merciful Lord.

The Most Exalted Pen declares: That which thou didst set forth in thy letter was seen. Yet strange it is that after the dawning of the Sun of Revelation, the divine proof and the testimony of the All-Merciful, thou art still bewildered and wanderest in the wilderness of perplexity. Look with fairness and ponder: if today a soul should remain deprived of this Most Great Revelation or deny it, by what proof and testimony could he establish his own faith in the previous Revelation?

By the Sun of the horizon of sanctity! If thou wouldst reflect upon the circumstances of the Sacrifice mentioned in thy letter concerning the people of Za, this same would constitute the greatest proof for thee and all peoples.

This Wronged One, from within the Most Great Prison, calleth thee with utmost kindness and summoneth thee to God, glorified and exalted be He. Know thou the value of these days and strive that thou mayest attain unto its fragrances. God willing, thou shalt drink from the chalice of certitude and fix thy gaze upon the horizon of the Cause of the Lord of the worlds.

Soon shall the world and all that is therein perish and become as naught, and that which shall endure for thee is what hath been mentioned in the Tablet, if thou knowest its station and art of them that are thankful. Praise be to God, the Lord of the worlds.

BH07014: Blessed is He Who hath spoken amidst the world…

He is the One dawning from His most exalted horizon

Blessed is He Who hath spoken amidst the world and caused those near unto Him to speak forth in remembrance of His Most Great Name. He, verily, is the Omnipotent over whatsoever He willeth. There is none other God but Him, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

The choice wine hath appeared and the pure water floweth, and the river of life is before the face of thy Lord, the All-Merciful, calling aloud and saying:

“Blessed is he who hath attained in the days of God, and turned toward the horizon of His Revelation, and spoken in praise of His Self, and arose to serve His Cause, and sought refuge in His sovereignty. Woe unto him who was deprived of His sweet savors and remained far from the Kawthar of His nearness and was forbidden from the ocean of His presence. He is among the most wretched of creation, to this doth the Tongue of God, the Mighty, the Glorious, the All-Informed, bear witness.”

Thus have We kindled the fire of utterance that through it all creation might be set ablaze, yet the people remain in manifest obscuration.

Trust thou in all conditions in the Self-Subsisting, the Most High, then thank Him for having caused to flow upon thee from the ocean of love that whereby thy remembrance shall endure through the eternity of His Best Names. He, verily, is the Ever-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.

BH06973: God willing, may you be occupied at all times…

He is God, exalted be His glory, the Most Great, the All-Powerful!

God willing, may you be occupied at all times with the remembrance of the Beloved of the worlds through the bounty of the All-Merciful. The world and all that is therein shall perish and be no more, and that which endureth is the remembrance which floweth today from the Most Exalted Pen for the loved ones of God. Erelong shall all the deniers and the idolaters be brought to naught, and the Cause of God and His sovereignty shall encompass the whole earth. Verily thy Lord is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed.

Say: Glory be unto Thee, O God, Lord of the world and Desire of the nations! I beseech Thee by Thy Most Great Name to make me in all conditions turned toward Thee, speaking Thy Name, and steadfast in Thy love, in such wise that the clamor of them that have disbelieved in Thy signs and turned away from the Dawning-Place of Thy Revelation shall not hinder me. O my Lord! Ordain for me through Thy bounty and grace that which will preserve me and exalt me in this world and the world to come. Verily Thou art the Lord of all creation. There is none other God but Thee, the Almighty, the Most Exalted, the All-Glorious, the Most Great.

BH08105: O Ahmad! Thy name was mentioned in the presence…

In the Name of the One True God!

O Ahmad! Thy name was mentioned in the presence of this Prisoner, and the fragrance of thy love for the Best-Beloved of the worlds was inhaled. Blessed art thou for having attained, in the first days of thy life, to the recognition of the Dawning-Place of God’s Revelation and the Dayspring of His firm and mighty Cause. How many of the great ones, the divines and princes, who at all times would supplicate and seek after the appearance of the Truth, and when the Most Great Luminary rose above the horizon of the world, they all remained veiled by the veils of their own idle fancies, save whom thy Lord willed. If thou wouldst ponder on this matter, thou wouldst witness the bounty of God towards thee, in that He confirmed thee in the early days in recognizing the Manifestation of His Self and the Dawning-Place of His verses. Rejoice thou and be of them that are thankful. Praise be to God, the Lord of the worlds.

BH08424: The Divine Word, which in one station is interpreted…

In the Name of the Beloved of the Worlds!

The Divine Word, which in one station is interpreted as the Most Pure Wine, was sent time after time. However, these penetrating influences and effulgences, these attractions and intoxications, and that whereby the world and all therein are transformed—you must, God willing, remain so steadfast in the Cause of God that neither fear nor perturbation shall seize you. Walk among the people with utmost uprightness and wisdom. In such case, whatsoever may befall you will be in the path of God.

What bounty is greater than this? What grace is mightier than this? What light is more luminous than this? What glory is more glorious than this?

Praise ye the Beloved of the world, that the Supreme Pen hath once again made mention of you. Be steadfast, O people, and be not of those whom fear hath seized in the Cause of God, the Lord of the worlds.

BH08420: Thy letter was presented before the Throne, and its…

He is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed!

Thy letter was presented before the Throne, and its heading was adorned and embellished with the crown of divine remembrance, that it might bear witness on thy behalf and testify that thou hast attained unto the days of God and been honored with the recognition of the Beloved of the world, of Whom most of the peoples are heedless. Be thou grateful unto God for this manifest grace.

The Most Exalted Pen counseleth all to observe wisdom, lest that which would cause the weak to falter be revealed. He is verily the Forgiving, the Merciful.

Blessed art thou for having voiced the praise of thy Lord and mentioned His name before the Throne, and thy Lord hath answered thee with this wondrous Tablet. Verily the glory be upon thee and upon him who moveth his pen in remembrance of God and upon him who was mentioned in thy letter.

We beseech God to aid and assist you in that which He loveth and pleaseth, and to ordain for you that which shall profit you in the world to come and in this world.

BH08720: O Jamshid! God grant that thou mayest be blessed…

In the name of God, the One!

O Jamshid! God grant that thou mayest be blessed by God’s manifold bounties and drink deeply from the ocean of the knowledge of the Beloved of all the worlds. Thy letter hath reached the Most Great Prison and come to the attention of this Wronged One. The perfume of thy love was inhaled therefrom. God grant that, under all conditions, thou mayest be engaged in the remembrance of Him Who is the All-Possessing, the Most Exalted. Make thou an effort that there may appear from thee during the days of God that which will perpetuate thy name for as long as the kingdoms of earth and heaven will last. This is what thy Lord, this wronged exile, enjoineth upon thee.

Deliver My greetings to the friends in that land and bid all to rejoice by reason of the illimitable divine bestowals, for the glance of His loving-kindness is and will continue to be directed towards His true friends. May providence itself be a sacrifice for His providence, and may the essence of bounty be a ransom for His bounty. The glory of God rest upon thee and upon those who turn towards God with a sanctified heart.

BH09994: Your letter was seen. What you wrote was acceptable…

In the Name of the One Friend!

Your letter was seen. What you wrote was acceptable in the sight of God, for you sought divine good-pleasure. If you remain steadfast in this matter, you will attain to all good—not like some who claim to love God but, despite the most great prohibition, proceed to the Most Holy Court without His leave. God, exalted be His glory, ordains the reward of attaining His presence for whomsoever He wishes. Verily He is the All-Forgiving, the All-Bountiful.

Know thou the value of the divine Word—nothing that hath been created can compare with a single word that appeareth from the ocean of His utterance. Be thou joyous and be of those who are thankful.

BH10011: Your call was heard in the Most Great Prison…

In the Name of the Lord of all worlds!

Your call was heard in the Most Great Prison and your letter attained unto the presence of the Wronged One of the world. God willing, may you remain steadfast in the Cause of God and in all times be turned toward the horizon of the All-Merciful, for the satans have been and are lying in wait.

We beseech God to protect His loved ones from the hosts of self and passion, draw them nigh unto the Most Exalted Horizon, and inspire them with that which will make them daysprings of steadfastness amidst all created things. He, verily, is the Almighty, the All-Powerful.

Blessed is the state of those souls who have today turned toward the Truth and whose mention hath flowed from the Most Exalted Pen. Theirs shall be a goodly end.

BH10390: Thy letter was presented before the Throne and was…

In the Name of God, the Most Great, the Most Glorious!

Thy letter was presented before the Throne and was observed. God willing, thou wilt in all conditions hold fast to the divine commandments which have been sent down in the revealed Books from the Supreme Pen, for this is the cause of the life of the world and the preservation of nations. God hath forgiven thee and thy father as a bounty from His presence. Verily, He is the All-Forgiving, the All-Bountiful. Today ye must conduct yourselves with the utmost wisdom and act in accordance with that whereby the Cause will be exalted. Verily, He is with His chosen ones and ordaineth for them that which will profit them in this world and the next. He, verily, is the Almighty, the All-Powerful.

BH00368: Praise be to God, who has singled Himself out…

He is God, exalted is He in glory and power

Praise be to God, who has singled Himself out to bear sorrows from all who dwell in the realm of possibility, and has distinguished Himself with tribulations from all that can be named as a thing in the dominions of creation. And the more afflictions increased, the more He manifested mighty signs—exalted be the Lord of Names and Creator of Heaven, whom the oppression of the servants did not deter. He has arisen to establish His Cause and has spoken as He willed. He is, verily, the Ruler in the beginning and the end, and the Commander on the Day of Reckoning. Exalted be His power that has encompassed all created things; exalted be His greatness that has overcome all possibilities; exalted be His mercy that has preceded all existence. Blessed is the soul that has drunk from the Kawthar of His good-pleasure, and the face that has turned unto His face, and the tongue that has spoken His praise, and the foot that has arisen to serve His Cause, and the eye that has beheld the horizon of His bounty, and the heart from which the fragrances of His love have wafted, and the hand that has taken hold of His mighty and wondrous Book.

And then: May my soul be a sacrifice for your steadfastness, O you who have been named Zaynu’l-Muqarrabin by the tongue of God, the Creator of all things! The servant has been blessed with receiving your letter, from whose horizon shone the lights of the love of the All-Merciful. I understood its contents, and it ascended and was presented before the Desired One, and its contents were laid before Him. Thereupon the Tongue of Grandeur spoke that which the nations are powerless to recount, how much less this evanescent servant. I beseech Him, exalted be He, to assist all to do what He loves and is pleased with. There is no refuge save in Him, and no escape except unto His all-encompassing mercy that prevails over the worlds.

As for what you wrote concerning the messenger of Jinab-i-Ismu’llah Jamal, upon him be Baha’u’llah’s Most Glorious Beauty, in these days he is dwelling near the divine mercy, and until now permission for return has not been issued from the Source of the Cause, and the petitions that you had sent have arrived.

One of the afflictions of God is that in most Tablets, matters that cause sedition, corruption, conflict and the clamor of the servants have been explicitly forbidden without interpretation, and likewise all have been commanded to wisdom. Both in the language of verses and in Persian the wisdom, meaning and details thereof have been revealed. Nevertheless, in most lands that which has occurred has occurred. For example, some time ago a person intended to go to the regions of Iran. This servant was himself present in the Most Holy Court when the Ancient Tongue verbally counseled him that he must conduct himself with the utmost wisdom and not speak except what God has decreed in the Tablets. Nevertheless, in these days several petitions have reached the Most Holy Court mentioning details about him that are the cause and reason for corruption, conflict and contention in the world.

Consider, for instance, that despite the explicit prohibition revealed in numerous Tablets, every day a group arrives and a group departs, and some of these souls upon returning to every city and land speak contrary to what God has commanded them. And some travelers who were not granted permission for an audience after their arrival have gone and claimed they attained His presence. Among them was one named Haydar-Ali from N-J who arrived but never attained the presence. Most of the emigrants also interceded but it was not accepted. Similarly, a person previously did not attain the presence and upon returning stole Aqa Ghulam-Ali’s money and fled. It becomes evident that some souls who remain unemployed in those parts use pilgrimage as a pretext. For instance, some time ago a person arrived in the Holy Land and after being dismissed went to the outlying areas and submitted a petition to the Most Great Branch—may my spirit and being be sacrificed for the dust of His footsteps—stating that his daily expenses were such and such amount and must be provided.

Similarly another person submitted a petition asking for a stipend to be given to him. In any case, one remains astonished that these souls have not yet attained a drop from the pure water of the divine Kawthar and remain attached and clinging to their own vain imaginings. Although some also turn toward God out of love for Him, since there is an explicit prohibition in the Book it has never been and is not permissible. Each day the return of a person becomes the cause of conflicting statements, for each one speaks differently wherever they arrive, and it is impossible for all these returning souls to speak with one statement and one word. These conflicting accounts of travelers cause discord among the people of different lands. None knows the wisdom of the prohibition except the All-Knowing, the All-Informed.

Apart from these matters, the very gathering in this land has been and will be the cause of harm to the Blessed Tree. Now forty-five travelers are residing in this land. The purpose of these submissions is that your honor be informed of certain matters. We beseech God to guide those who claim belief to His Straight Path.

“Blessed is he, again blessed is he, in that he desired to follow the command of his Lord, Who hath desired naught for His servants save what is best for them.” According to His command, it should be given to the destitute of that land, meaning those who have no means of livelihood today. Whatever reaches this land will also be sent to that land with utmost necessity.

Regarding what you had written about Aqa Abdul-Ghani from Sh., his situation was presented. According to His command, two persons have been given permission to attain the Most Holy Presence. In these days, more than two souls are not permitted, given the number of people already present here. Convey greetings on behalf of this evanescent servant to them. Let them engage in their work with the utmost joy and fragrance, or return to their homeland.

Concerning what you wrote about Jinab-i-Aqa Abdul-Karim, it was presented before the Most Holy Presence. He said:

“We have accepted his pilgrimage. Let him return to Iran. Another visit is not permitted.”

Regarding the question about the mithqal, what is meant is the Bayanic mithqal which is nineteen nukhuds, and likewise regarding the months, the Bayanic month is intended.

Concerning the question whether the residence and special clothing, in the absence of male offspring, should revert to the House of Justice or be distributed like other properties, this is what was revealed in answer from God, the Mighty, the Bestower: Two-thirds of the house and special clothing revert to the female offspring, and one-third to the House of Justice, which God has made the treasury of the nation.

The question was also asked about the ruling for one whose death or killing is reported—whether it must be proven by the testimony of two just witnesses or by common knowledge. It should be clarified whether the two just witnesses must have seen with their own eyes, or if their certain knowledge and testimony suffices. The answer is that certain knowledge suffices.

Regarding the question about someone claiming a debt from another without witnesses or documentation, what is God’s ordinance in such cases? This is what was revealed from the heaven of God’s will: O Zaynu’l-Muqarrabin, claims of people are established by three things: by valid documentation, or by two just witnesses, or by the oath which settles and resolves it.

Your letter dated the 25th of Muharram arrived after completing the response to your previous letter, and achieved the honor of being received. Praise be to God that the fragrance of grace continuously reaches this evanescent servant, and the soul derives pleasure from it.

Regarding what you wrote about Haji Kazim, permission for him and Jinab-i-Aqa Abdul-Hussein was granted from the horizon of grace some time ago. God willing, news of this has reached you by now.

Concerning what you wrote about Aqa Ali of Khorramabad, it was presented before the Most Holy Presence. His word, exalted be His grandeur:

“God willing, may they ever remain steadfast in God’s Cause through the Merciful One’s grace, and soar in the heaven of understanding on the wings of certitude. Verily, He remembers those who remember Him. Thy Lord is indeed the Compassionate, the Merciful.”

Concerning Aqa ʿAli Muhammad from Shiraz, of whom thou didst write, this is what was revealed in reply: O Ali before Muhammad! This is the prison land—it behooveth not any seeker to enter therein. Hold fast to the cord of contentment, for this is better for thee than all that hath been created on earth. To this beareth witness the Lord of Names in this glorious station. The harm that hath befallen the root of the Tree in diverse lands hath been due to the gathering of the friends. Otherwise, God, exalted and glorified be He, hath loved His loved ones, and all have been and shall ever remain beneath His merciful glance.

Concerning Ali-Akbar from the land of Nishapur, of whom thou didst write, it was submitted before His presence. His blessed and exalted Word: O Ali-Akbar! Verily the Lord of Power from the Most Sublime Vision calleth thee and saith: Blessed art thou for having believed in God, the Lord of the worlds. We have accepted thy turning unto God. Return to thy home with joy and fragrance, then make mention of this Wronged One, the Prisoner. Grieve not for that from which thou wert forbidden. Verily thy Lord is the All-Wise, the All-Knowing Ordainer. God willing, return with utmost joy and delight and be content with God’s good-pleasure. This is better than the visitation of those who have turned without permission from God. To this testify all atoms, yet most people are among the heedless.

As for what thou didst write concerning Mirza Yusuf, it was submitted. His word, exalted be His majesty: O Yusuf! We have heard thy call and witnessed thy turning to God, the Lord of the heavens and earth, and the Lord of all things visible and invisible. We have commanded all to wisdom and forbidden them from turning toward the Prison, lest there arise the clamor of those who have disbelieved in God, the Protector, the Self-Subsisting. Thou must return with the utmost joy and delight and convey to all the command of prohibition, that none may move from their place without permission. In most Tablets, turning to this direction hath been forbidden. Were the consummate wisdom concealed in this prohibition to be mentioned, all would be content with God’s good-pleasure and grateful for His prohibition. The love of God hath taken precedence and shall continue to do so. As thou observest, at all times He is occupied with the mention of God’s friends. Ye must return, perfumed with the fragrances of the All-Merciful, and summon all to wisdom, which is the foundation of the Cause.

Any matter that appeareth from anyone without wisdom shall not be acceptable. God hath commanded all souls in the holy Tablets to teach the Cause, but with wisdom and utterance. All must look to the Tablets, not to sayings. Verily thy Lord is the Compassionate, the Bountiful. Matters that cause corruption, conflict and contention have never been and are not beloved. Today is the day of goodly deeds and praiseworthy character. Blessed is he who is adorned with My attributes, who speaketh that which hath been revealed in My Tablets, and who acteth according to what hath been commanded in My Holy and Luminous Book. Blessed art thou, for My Most Exalted Pen hath moved to make mention of thee. Preserve this station, then act according to what thy Lord, the Manifest, the All-Informed, hath commanded thee.

The petitions of Mirza Karim Khan have attained the Most Holy Court, and the petitions of Ali-Akbar—let any who intendeth to depart send them.

Regarding what was written concerning Muhammad Husaynavi, it was submitted before the Most Mighty and Most Holy presence. His word, exalted be His grandeur:

O Muhammad! Be not grieved at anything. Rejoice in thy Lord for He hath forgiven thee and will give thee better than what was taken from thee. Be thou assured and be of the thankful ones. Verily thy Lord giveth to whomsoever He willeth whatsoever He pleaseth. Nothing can prevent His command and He is verily the Powerful, the Almighty, the Omnipotent. Convey My greetings to the loved ones of God in Iraq. Say: Rejoice with the Most Great Joy and hold fast unto wisdom in all conditions. He is verily the True Counsellor, the Faithful One.

As to what was asked about whether the Arabic months are determined by the sighting of the moon or whether one can act according to what is specified in the calendar—acting according to the calendar is permissible.

Furthermore, regarding what was asked about the limit of travel for those who fast—the limit has been set at nine hours. If a traveler arrives in a place and intends to stay, it is permissible to fast for three days, but not before; thereafter he may fast. If he arrives in his hometown and it is during the days of fasting, he must fast. If a traveler has been traveling during the days of fasting, he need not make up for what he missed—that is, he need not fast in compensation. God hath pardoned him as a bounty from His presence. Verily He is the Forgiving, the Bountiful. The divine purpose from His wondrous favors is that all should act upon His commandments with joy and fragrance and hold fast to His laws.

And concerning what you wrote about the testimony of two just witnesses—they are souls who are known in every city for their piety and trustworthiness.

BH01123: Praise be to God Who hath spoken through…

In His Name, the Most Holy, the Most Great, the Most Glorious!

Praise be to God Who hath spoken through the sovereignty of His Will in the Kingdom of utterance, whereupon all contingent beings were thunderstruck and the pillars of all religions trembled, except for those who cast away vain imaginings and turned unto the All-Merciful. These are accounted as the people of Baha by the Pen of God, the Lord of all names. Upon them pray the Concourse on High and the dwellers of the cities of names, both morn and eventide. Praise be to God Who hath manifested His Hidden Name, whereby the horizon of Revelation hath shone forth and the Dove hath warbled upon the Divine Lote-Tree. By God! This is the Day wherein the earth hath been cleft asunder and the heaven hath been rent in twain, whereupon the mystics fled and the learned were thunderstruck—they who clung to the hem of vain desire and held fast to the cord of tyranny and transgression.

These are indeed accounted among the wayward in the sight of God, the Cleaver of the heavens. Praise be to God Who hath sent down from His holy Kingdom His Most Holy Book and made it the Dayspring of guidance unto all creation. Blessed is he who hath taken hold of it with the power that proceedeth from Him, and woe betide him who hath turned away from that which hath been sent down therein from His Most Exalted Pen.

Thereafter, We have received your letter from which wafted the fragrance of your love for our Beloved and the Beloved of all who are in the heavens and on earth. I beseech God, exalted be His glory, to assist you ever in serving His Cause and to gladden you through His remembrance. In these days when the clamor of the people is raised high and the consuming flames of the might of those in authority are evident, the true station of the friends of God must needs be made manifest among men. Strange indeed that some of the people of that land have been observed to be fearful and disturbed, although all assuredly know that manifest death shall overtake all and none can escape it. This being the case, if one should be blessed with achieving the supreme martyrdom in the path of God, it is certainly better and more beloved than to surrender one’s soul on a sickbed afflicted with various loathsome ailments.

Today must every soul conduct himself in accordance with the divine verses revealed in the glorious Tablets, meaning that no act contrary to wisdom should proceed from him, and that he should remain mindful in all conditions of the divine wisdom wherewith he is commanded, letting no corruption or contention be manifested from him. Under such circumstances, should any wrong befall him, it hath been and shall be in the path of God. I swear by the Sun of Revelation that this station hath no equal. Should someone sacrifice a hundred thousand lives for this station, it would still not be worthy of it.

The purpose is that all the friends should remain steadfast through the power and might of God, and be adorned with goodly deeds and praiseworthy character, and not be disturbed by the clamor of the heedless. God willing, you should ever remind the friends of God that they may all be united in complete harmony and agreement upon the universal Word of the Lord.

As to what you wrote concerning the friends from Eshtehard and Kaleh-Dareh, requesting me to convey their greetings to the Most Holy, Most Exalted Presence—at a special time, I presented everyone’s greetings before the Divine Throne. The Sun of Favor rose from the horizon of grace regarding all. His words, exalted be His glory: “O friends! Praise be to God that through the grace of the Beloved of the worlds, you have drunk from the wine of divine knowledge and utterance, and have turned toward the supreme horizon, the dawning-place of the Lord of Names. Know ye the value of this bounty and be thankful in all conditions. Be not saddened by the events of this fleeting world, the opposition of heedless souls, and the clamor of those possessed of vain knowledge. By My life! Soon all shall perish and vanish, and the banners of divine victory shall be raised in all directions. Verily, He is the Almighty, the Powerful.

Walk with utmost wisdom and hold fast to the divine commandments. Drink consecutively and successively from the cups of the favors of the Lord of creation, and offer them to those who are ready, despite those who have denied the verses of God, the Protector, the Self-Subsisting. You have always been and continue to be in Our sight. What is beloved today is steadfastness, unity, and acting in accordance with what hath been sent down in the Tablets of wisdom and all else. God willing, may all be immersed in the ocean of contentment and hold fast to the sure handle. Verily, He is with those who have fulfilled God’s Covenant and His pledge, and who have followed what was revealed in His mighty, powerful and wondrous Book.”

And regarding what was written that Mashadi Ali Akbar sends his greetings and mentions that the old love should not be forgotten—it has never been forgotten and never shall be. And concerning what was mentioned about the elimination of differences—this word truly brought joy to the heart, for discord is the cause and reason for the waste of God’s Cause among His servants. We implore God, exalted be His glory, with utmost humility and supplication, to adorn all with the ornament of unity and cause them to utter the blessed words “There is none other God but He.” I remember all the friends and masters of the land of A, Q, and K. All should be grateful with utmost joy, for they are mentioned in the Greatest Scene and are honored with divine favors. The petition that was submitted to the Divine Throne was presented, adorned with the sun of God’s verses, and sent. God willing, may they attain unto it. The Glory be upon you.

The servant, End of Rabi’u’th-Thani 1293

BH00278: Praise be to God—sanctified above all mention and praise…

Section 1: “He is the Most Holy, the Most Great…”

He is the Most Holy, the Most Great, the Most Inaccessible, the Most High, the All-Glorious.

Praise be to God—sanctified above all mention and praise, and exalted beyond whatsoever tongue can utter, or the pen of any created thing can trace—Who hath caused His Most Exalted Horizon to appear through His Most Glorious Name, and hath summoned all unto Him by His sweetest call, wherewith they that are endued with understanding have been drawn, and they that abide upon the thrones of the names have been attracted. Exalted is His majesty, encompassing His power; preceded is His mercy, consummated His proof, perfected His bounty. He hath ever abode in the loftiness of His Essence and the sublimity of His Attributes, aloof from all beside Him and sanctified from aught else. He hath spoken His Most Great Word and made it the Balance of justice for all that are in earth and heaven. Blessed are they that have turned unto Him and attained unto that wherefrom most men have been withheld; and woe betide him who hath turned away and been deprived of God, the Lord of the world to come and of this world.

And I invoke blessings and offer magnification upon them who, in this day, speak His Most Excellent Names and utter that which hath been revealed in the Tablets from His Most Exalted Pen. These are they that are of the people of Baha in the sight of God, the Lord of Names.

My soul be a sacrifice for Thy love! It has been some time since we received news from you, although every soul who departed from here for that direction was given the trouble of carrying successive and consecutive letters, until two letters from you arrived. In truth it was joyous and gladdening news. After reading and learning of its contents, it was presented to the Most Holy Court and all was submitted. He said:

“Your companion did not act according to divine counsels, inasmuch as he had ever heard from the tongue of this Wronged One that one must associate and converse with all people with the utmost love, kindness and patience, and must proceed with the teaching of the Cause with perfect wisdom. Yet in gatherings and assemblies he spoke other than what God permitted and became a cause of discord. In all the Tablets We have commanded the people to love and unity, for discord in this day is the cause of the wastage of God’s Cause. God willing, you will succeed in rectifying whatever discord hath appeared and will draw all to the divine word in the city of oneness, that perchance the breezes of detachment and fellowship may waft from the cities of hearts and dispel the dark and turbid airs.”

Verily He is the Commander, the Almighty, the All-Knowing.

Some petitions were presented to the Most Holy Court containing complaints about Nabil. Some of what these souls reported was in accordance with fact. Therefore, one day Nabil was summoned and the Tongue of Grandeur spoke to him directly with sufficient and healing words. Thereafter he became agitated and sent a petition to the Most Holy Court wherein he expressed repentance, remorse and boundless powerlessness. In truth, his intention in every circumstance had been to promote the Cause. Whatever he had done and said, he had considered to be in the best interests of the Cause. However, this evanescent servant is perplexed as to how it is possible that after the revelation of Tablets, firm ordinances and recorded commandments, one such as he would not act according to the requirements of individuals, gatherings and assemblies, and would be heedless of the wisdom revealed in the Tablets. However, God has pardoned him as a token of His grace. Verily He is the Pardoner, the Forgiving.

There are many actions which, though outwardly appearing to promote the Cause, yet being contrary to the command of God, have not and will never yield fruit. For example, His honor Aqa Jamal, upon him be all the most glorious Glory of God, arose with utmost steadfastness to serve the Cause of God and nothing appeared from him that would harm God’s Cause. However, since his actions deviated from the revealed wisdom, the Supreme Pen hesitated to endorse what he had done. For today all are commanded to observe wisdom and are forbidden from that which causes tumult and corruption. God willing, you should strive with utmost effort to remove the differences that have arisen, for differences among the loved ones of God today cause the joy of enemies from various nations and result in harm to the Cause. We beseech God to assist His loved ones to achieve love and unity, love and unity, love and unity.

Observe that in most Tablets the decree of wisdom has been revealed, and whoever attained the presence of the Ancient Beauty was explicitly commanded by Him to observe wisdom. Despite these firm decrees and established commands, many of the friends in most lands have acted without wisdom, thereby causing the cawing of the ravens and the outcry of the deniers to be raised, leading to the perturbation and veiling of weak souls. Whatever occurs contrary to God’s command, even if it be pure good, will yield no fruit; rather, evil will result from it.

Regarding what was mentioned about His honor Haji Ahmad, upon him be the Glory of God, it is correct. Indeed, Nabil acted without wisdom. The ruling about the water-pipe was not revealed in the Kitab-i-Aqdas. God, exalted be His grandeur, in view of His consummate wisdom and protection of His servants, did not issue any decree in this matter so that the friends of God would not be afflicted. Only this much was heard from the blessed tongue: that children should be trained so they do not become addicted to it from the beginning. Beyond this blessed word nothing was heard. Today all are commanded to act according to the Kitab-i-Aqdas, and even then not in ways that would cause elaboration and public clamor. In all cases wisdom must be observed. We beseech God to protect us, preserve us, and aid us to serve His firm and mighty Cause.

No recent news has occurred in this land except that travelers continue to arrive without permission. At present, forty-five persons are here in addition to the early emigrants who were here before. A few of these souls came with permission, but the rest without it. They heeded not the divine prohibition and act according to their own fancy. We beseech for them the grace of obedience, submission and contentment. Due to the press of affairs, this servant has not had opportunity to attend to the small plot, but whenever we gather there, mention of you is made. We beseech God to unite us and you therein.

Concerning what was written about Mirza Muhammad-ʿAli, praise be to God he has turned to the Truth and shows tenderness whenever the Truth is mentioned. We beseech God to confirm him and adorn him with that which is beloved today, that he may arise to serve the Cause with perfect steadfastness. By the Sun of the horizon of inner meanings, if any soul today would reflect upon what has appeared and view the divine Tablets with the eye of fairness, he would assuredly become illumined with the lights of faith, detached from all else. God willing, may He not deprive any from the ocean of His mercy. Verily He is the Mighty, the Powerful.

Regarding what was written about the souls who turned to the Lord of Lords after your departure, the names of all were presented before the Most Holy Court. He showed favor to all of them, but due to the gathering of travelers and press of occupation, there was no opportunity for Tablets to be revealed specifically for each one, as all these travelers have come with petitions requiring answers. And you know that the Most Great Branch (may my spirit be a sacrifice for the dust of His footsteps) must write these Tablets, therefore their dispatch has been delayed this time. Hereafter the matter is in His hands.

Concerning what was written about Rida (upon him be the Glory of God), that his condition these days is good and he has shown love to you—excellent is what he has done, and all should act likewise. I beseech God to confirm him in all conditions, and assuredly divine confirmations have been and will be directed toward him. He too must conduct himself with perfect wisdom, for this is God’s decree and both hidden and manifest effects will surely result therefrom. Verily He is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed.

Section 2: “That which you had written was received through…”

That which you had written was received through Haji, that is Aba-Badi’, upon him be the Glory of God. You must, on behalf of this evanescent servant, convey greetings to all the friends of that land and say: O beloved friends of the contingent world! This is the Day when the sweet-scented spiritual breeze is wafting from the luminous garment of the Lord, and the Holy Spirit, with utmost delicacy and grace, is in motion and vibration. Turn your hearts that you may find it, and incline your ears that you may hear its sweet melody. That which is lost by any soul today cannot be compensated for in centuries and ages to come. Be gathered together like the ring of a signet, occupied with the remembrance of the Friend, that you may receive the living waters of knowledge from the hand of bounty and drink thereof in gatherings free from strangers, and cause others to drink, lest the envious, the slanderers and the deniers become aware. They must lift their gaze from all else save God and fix it upon the Truth, for should they attain to this station, the unpleasant things of the world and the veils of the people of error will neither sadden them nor keep them from God.

This servant summons all to the most great steadfastness, for in most of the Tablets, both before and after, He hath given tidings of the cawing of the crows and the like thereof. All must be so firm in the Cause of God that neither the might of the world nor the combined forces of the nations may disturb them or cause them to waver. Say: Blessed are ye, O people of Baha, for ye have attained unto the Most Exalted Horizon and the Most Luminous and Pure Fountain. By God’s life! There hath been ordained for you in God’s Kingdom that which no eye hath seen nor ear heard. Were God to reveal but a hair’s breadth thereof to the people of the earth, they would surely destroy themselves in regret for having been deprived of that glorious and impregnable station.

And concerning what was written about your having prevented some travelers, there is a saying among the common folk that goes,

“Thank God they bled him, otherwise who knows what would have happened.”

O my master! Beseech God that He may enable all to obey His Cause.

Concerning what you wrote about Aqa Shaykh-ʿAli, he wrote a detailed letter to this servant, and this servant wrote him a detailed reply. God willing, may we—this servant, he, and others—become enabled to act according to divine good-pleasure. In the Kitab-i-Aqdas, all have been commanded to engage in an occupation. Today, everyone who claims to love God must be engaged in some work. Whoever you observe to be idle, you should, through kind counsels and good advice, encourage them to work and earn. The good of all souls lies in this, and since it has been revealed by the Supreme Pen, its fruits will surely become manifest. If the friends of God had acted upon what was revealed, no discord would ever have occurred, for all were commanded to humility, submissiveness, resignation, contentment, love, trustworthiness, religiosity, kindness, truthfulness and sincerity. This servant, with utmost supplication and lamentation, clings to the hem of the robe of grace, that He may raise up souls who will be dawning-places of detachment and daysprings of trustworthiness and sincerity, and who will, with perfect kindness, purely for the sake of God, invite the weak among mankind and lead them to the ocean of grace.

This servant was greatly affected by your letter, for what you wrote corresponds to reality and truth. Had visitors and seekers conducted themselves as they ought to have done, the fragrance of holiness would surely have perfumed the entire world. But what was destined has come to pass. It behooves us to hold fast to the cord of His favors and beseech Him to manifest in His kingdom that which befits His days. He is, verily, the Mighty, the Powerful.

As for what you wrote in praise of Aqa Mirza ʿA.B., upon him be the Glory of God, I beseech and implore God, exalted be His grandeur, to grant him complete success. In previous years a Tablet was specifically revealed for him, and this servant was writing in His presence when a passage was observed in that Tablet which convinced this servant that he would attain to glory and power.

Regarding what you wrote about Jinab-i-ʿA.B. Nur, upon him be the Glory of God, may he be assisted and successful in all conditions and become firm and steadfast in the Cause of God. He was mentioned in the Most Holy Court, and it is indeed exactly as you wrote—that he has shown forth with perfect love, eagerness and longing. He was mentioned before, that is, before he declared his acceptance. This servant sends greetings to him, and some of the names that were sent with Jinab-i-Haji and Jinab-i-Nabil have been received.

Furthermore, your willow-musk arrived, though sadly it was willow without musk. In truth, you took great pains, and this servant deeply regretted that such expense was wasted—that is, apparently wasted. However, I hope that, God willing, its hidden sweet fragrance will become manifest, for in His presence He said it would become well, and this surely is due to your pure intention. May I be a sacrifice unto you! From the abundance of writing the pen cries “O help!”, yet the heart is not content to cease writing and cries “O longing!” According to His command, the new Mosaic leaf should be preserved in the House, that is, should remain in your keeping.

I hope that, God willing, news of your well-being will arrive continuously and successively. One letter sent through the post from the direction of Erzurum arrived safely at its destination, but since you and my brother were not in Tabriz at that time, no reply was sent. Let it be known that that writing arrived. A firm arrangement can be made henceforth for the post to arrive, and if this can be accomplished it would be most excellent, for if news from the Most Holy Court arrives continuously, it will be the cause of the revival of souls. Furthermore, someone has requested a black Najafi cloak—if one can be found there, please send one. Likewise, some saffron. We beseech God for your preservation, protection, meeting and presence. Verily, He is the Fulfiller of the needs of all seekers.

Convey exalted greetings to my honored master, my brother, as well as his son and other relatives, dependent upon His grace. Each of the circumambulators offers pure devotion and greetings too sacred for mention or description to your presence. The Glory be upon you, then the Spirit be upon you. Regarding the request that a Tablet be specially granted to Aqa Mirza Muhammad-ʿAli, a most wondrous and impregnable Tablet has been revealed from the heaven of the All-Merciful Will concerning him and has been sent, that his eyes may be solaced thereby, his heart gladdened, and he may arise to serve his Lord. Convey greetings to him on behalf of this servant.

The servant, In Jumada I, 1293

In these days take note of the Suriy-i-Ra’is. Turmoil and upheaval have seized all regions to such extent that three souls in the great city have perished from fear, and dominion has passed from the hand of the sovereign. After studying that divine Tablet, it becomes clear what has transpired. Surely some news has reached you. Likewise in the Kitab-i-Aqdas, regarding the great city, He says, exalted be His glory: “O Spot that art situate on the shores of the two seas” to His exalted words “We testify that He is indeed the All-Knowing, the All-Powerful, the Omniscient, the All-Informed.” Would that that Surih had been given to him beforehand, that he might have become aware and made preparation for these days. But he was heedless and the matter was decreed in truth. Verily, He is the Decree-Maker, the All-Knowing.

BH04621: Praise be to God Who shone forth…

He is the Most Holy, the Most Great, the Most Exalted, the Most Glorious

Praise be to God Who shone forth with the luminary of His grace in the world of oneness, whereupon appeared the Primal Point, and manifested it through four lines. Through one line He created the realm of divinity and through another the kingdom of might, until the four worlds were completed. The first letter that told of these was indeed the standing Alif’, and when it revolved around itself, the letter Kaf’ appeared, from which He created the greater world and then the lesser world. Exalted is the Lord of Power, through Whom the sun was eclipsed and the moon darkened, and every stone and clod proclaimed that there is no God but Him, the Omnipotent, Who has ever been self-subsisting through the self-subsistence of His Essence over all created things, and all-prevailing through the dominion of His Self over all contingent beings.

When He desired to separate and distinguish, to gather and endear, He spoke the Most Great Word, whereupon all things were set in motion, each kind was joined with its kind, each thing hastened to its horizon, each form to its station and origin, and each spirit to its dawning-place. This indeed is the Most Great Balance that hath been set up among men, whereby every soul is reckoned without being aware within itself, and all things are gathered without perceiving it within their essence. Exalted, exalted is the Fashioner of all things out of nothing through His power. Exalted, exalted is the Creator of names out of nothingness through His will.

He created the Most Exalted Pen and taught it what no earthly knowledge can encompass. At times there flowed from it the Water of Life, whereby He quickened whomsoever He willed among the people of creation, and at other times He caused it to yield the sweetest melody, whereby were attracted the dwellers of the cities of names and those who abide in the Most Exalted Paradise.

Sanctified and exalted is our Most Glorious Lord above any mention, description or praise, through Whom earthquakes seized all the tribes of the earth, and those in earth and heaven were thunderstruck, the idols of vain desire were shattered, and the pillars of the divines were shaken—those who cast behind them the Preserved Tablet and clung to idle fancies and vain imaginings. By God’s life! They are the idols, though people perceive it not, and they are vain imaginings, though the people understand it not. Through them the Fountain of Divine Presence was barred and the Ocean of Reunion was veiled. These are the most great veils. Blessed is the one who is strong enough to rend them, powerful enough to tear them, and steadfast enough to remove them. Such a one is among the most exalted of creation before God, the Lord of Names, and is indeed established upon the Crimson Ark. Upon him be the glory of God and the glory of the Concourse on High, who remember God in all conditions. There is no God but our Lord, the Mighty, the Powerful, the Most Exalted, the Help in Peril.

Thereafter, while the servant was occupied with the revelation of verses and enkindled with the fire of the love of God, the Lord of Names and Attributes, one of the friends entered with a letter. When it reached the servant’s hand and I opened it, I discovered from it the fragrance of the roses of inner meanings. Then I read it and became aware of what was contained therein regarding your mention of our Beloved and the Beloved of all the worlds. By thy life! Thy letter brought me such joy that I am unable to describe, for I recognized from it thy rising to serve the Cause and thy utterance for the sake of God, the Lord of all worlds. I presented it at a special time before the Throne and submitted its contents, whereupon from the horizon of the grace of the Lord of creation, the sun of loving-kindness shone forth and the Tongue of Grandeur spoke that which I cannot recount. And afterward in Persian they said:

“God willing, through the loving-kindness of the All-Merciful, may they bestow eternal life upon the heedless souls from the Kawthar of recognition of the Lord of Oneness and may they be occupied with service to the Cause.”

Praise be to God that thou art remembered in the Most Great Prison and art honored and privileged with divine favors. And regarding what thou didst write about arriving in Astarabad and proceeding to the home of Mirza ʿAbdu’r-Rahman—blessed is he for having honored thy dwelling purely for the sake of thy Lord. We beseech God to protect him and make him steadfast in the Cause whose greatness God hath testified to, and to grant him the good of this world and the next. In truth, the mere fact that they have been honored with the privilege of faith, have drunk the living waters, and have been mentioned before the Presence means they have attained all good things and blessings. Blessed is he, again blessed is he!

And regarding what thou didst write mentioning Mirza ʿAbbas and Aqa Muhammad-Taqi Aqa and others—their names were presented, and this is what the Tongue of Grandeur spoke:

“We love those who have turned to the Most Exalted Horizon and have directed themselves toward God, the Creator of earth and heaven. We beseech Him, exalted be He, to grant them the sweetness of His remembrance and to strengthen them in steadfastness in His Cause, that there may appear from them that whereby their names shall endure in His Kingdom and His Dominion. Verily He is the Powerful One, Whose sovereignty all in the heavens and earth have acknowledged.”

And regarding what was written about Ibn-i-Shin, God willing he has been and will continue to be protected. This servant submits that whoever today attains the honor of recognizing the Beloved of the worlds, all honor and good is directed toward him, and if at times there is some delay, this too is in accordance with divine wisdom—they should not be saddened by it, for they are under the glance of God’s loving-kindness and His infinite favors will surely encompass them. Especially regarding Ibn-i-Shin, I swear by the Sun of the heaven of divine grace that such favor has been shown him that its mention shall endure as long as the kingdom of earth and heaven endure. However, the friends must be mindful of such souls, for excessive association with the likes of these may cause disturbance among some. Since all are commanded to wisdom today, they must therefore be mindful in these matters. And whatever they have given him, there is no harm in that—verily the Generous One gives generously what He possesses. Indeed, boundless generosity was manifested from that person. We beseech God to grant thee double what thou hast given in His path.

As to what you wrote concerning Jinab-i-Aqa Mirza Muhammad-Ali, upon him be Baha’u’llah’s glory, that he has arrived in the land of Jadhba and Tabas, and according to what has been reported from him that he is commissioned with a special mission—this servant was greatly astonished, for in all the divine Tablets, conflict, contention and corruption have been forbidden and all have been commanded to wisdom, as you yourself have heard from the blessed tongue during times of attendance. This servant submits only this much: that nothing except teaching, and that too with the wisdom revealed in the Tablets, has been or ever will be acceptable before God. By the life of the Beloved! This is the truth, and after truth there is naught but error. Today all are commanded to sanctification, detachment, goodly words, righteous deeds and pleasing utterances. The heedless people must, God willing, be invited to the choice wine of wisdom and utterance at the horizon of the All-Merciful. Repeatedly this servant was present before His countenance when He would counsel Jinab-i-Aqa Mirza Muhammad-Ali to wisdom and to that which would draw near the hearts of those who were far removed.

As to what you wrote concerning the cawing of the crows—this matter was revealed in the divine Tablets during the days of migration from Iraq, and likewise in the Land of Mystery, and likewise in the Most Great Prison. All have been informed that the cawing of crows shall be raised and the birds of night shall be stirred to motion. And it is very clear that what is meant has been and will be the false claimants and heedless souls who summon the servants to Satan. This matter has been announced to most of the friends so that all might become aware and avoid such souls. And in your Tablet this matter was revealed that you should inform the loved ones. And likewise in most Tablets to Jinab-i-Ism-i-Ha, upon him be the Most Glorious Glory of God, in the land of Sad and in the land of Ya and other countries, specific persons have been informed.

As to what you wrote concerning Jinab-i-Mulla Zaynu’l-ʿAbidin, it was submitted. This is what shone forth from the horizon of utterance: O Rahim! Such as he who has ascended to the kingdom of knowledge and been illumined by the lights of the Muhammadan Sun—may the spirit of all else be sacrificed for Him—must detect the fragrance of the garment which today is diffused throughout the world and distinguish it from aught else. Convey greetings from this Wronged One, and since his mention was made in the Most Great Prison, this itself is evidence of his turning to God, the Lord of the worlds. One must not make turning to the Truth contingent upon anything save what God has revealed in His clear and decisive Book. If for an hour, for the sake of God, they would reflect upon the Sun of the Cause which has appeared from the horizon of the divine Will, they would surely consider as non-existent all who are in the world and would turn to the Object of worship. In this case the grace of God would encompass their condition and whatsoever is good for them would be ordained by the Pen of Destiny. Verily thy Lord guides whom He willeth to the straight path.

As to what thou didst mention regarding Mulla Hasan, it was said—and His word is the truth:

“O Hasan! Be not troubled, but be thou assured and turn to God, the Lord of the worlds. Deprive not thyself of the fragrances of the days of God. Seize thou this opportunity and be of them that have attained. Give thanks that thou wast mentioned in the Prison before the Wronged One, and that this wondrous remembrance was sent down for thee.”

Although this station is not apparent today owing to mankind’s lack of capacity, by Him Who hath caused me to speak the truth, all the treasures of the earth cannot compare with this remembrance, for that which appeareth from the presence of God endureth forever, while all else is transient and perishable.

Reflect upon the days of the dawning of the Muhammadan Sun, may the spirit of all be a sacrifice unto Him, and upon the heedlessness, rejection and neglect of the divines, men of letters and leaders, and likewise upon the appearance of Christ and the cause of the objections of the Jewish divines and the people of that time, that the truth may become manifest unto thee. God willing, thou shalt grasp the Kawthar of inner meanings with the hand of certitude and drink thereof in the name of God. Truth hath never been, nor shall ever be, confused with aught else. The vain imaginings of men have held them back from the Lord of creation. Rend asunder the veils of glory through the name of the Self-Sufficient, the Most High, that ye may attain unto your goal. This is not difficult for God.

And as to what thou didst mention regarding Shaykh Ibrahim, this is what was revealed for him: O Shaykh! Strive thou that thou mayest not be deprived of the outpourings of this Day and that thou mayest attain unto that which is recorded in the divine Books and sacred Scriptures. On this day neither knowledge, nor mystic insight, nor piety, nor righteousness, nor seclusion shall be of any avail. For instance, if a soul should today be learned in all branches of knowledge yet fail to recognize Him Who is the Known, no benefit from that knowledge shall ever reach him; and if one should be unlettered yet attain unto the recognition of the Truth, no harm shall come to him from his lack of learning.

Consider the past: the divines of that age turned away in the early years from the Day-Star of the heaven of inner meaning, while Abu-Dharr, who was but a shepherd, attained to the recognition of the Faith and partook of the pure wine from the hand of the All-Possessing Lord of Destiny. It would be a pity for souls such as thyself to remain deprived of the breezes of the All-Merciful and shut out from the horizon of grace. Reflect at last upon how this Wronged One, though all the rulers and leaders and most of the people have turned away from Him, calleth out at the top of His voice, detached from all else, at the midmost heart of the world, summoning all mankind unto the Truth. If one would but look with fairness upon this matter alone, the Truth would become as manifest as the sun. If anyone should deny this Cause, to what could he cling, and what hem could he grasp? This is a Day whereon it behooveth every soul, upon hearing the Call, to turn towards and respond to his Lord in this most holy, mighty and wondrous Revelation.

Another matter: convey from this evanescent servant sublime greetings to the friends of God and them that have turned unto the horizon of the All-Merciful, who have drunk from the Kawthar of steadfastness and are turned unto the countenance of God, and likewise to Aqa Mulla Muhammad-ʿAli who was mentioned in thy letter. God willing, may they all abide beneath the tree of divine oneness and drink at all times from the Kawthar of mystic knowledge. The glory be upon thee and upon them and upon those who have turned, detached from the world and all that is therein, with their hearts toward the court of God, the Mighty, the Best-Beloved.

The servant, In the month of Jamadiyu’l-Avval 1293

BH00900: This is a Book sent down by the All-Merciful…

He is the Most Holy, the Most Great, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise

This is a Book sent down by the All-Merciful to all who dwell within the realm of possibility, that they might arise from the slumber of vain desire and turn towards the Supreme Horizon which hath been illumined by this Name, through which the Divine Lote-Tree hath spoken forth from the crimson spot, that there is no God but Him, the Almighty, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise. The ocean of divine knowledge hath surged in the days of the All-Merciful, and all things have voiced the praise of the Lord of Names, yet the people remain in a strange sleep. We have sent down the verses and made manifest the clear proofs in such wise that the very atoms have been attracted by them, yet the people remain in doubt and dissension. Say: This is the Day wherein sight is confounded, the moon is darkened, and the mountains are made to pass away, for the horizon of Glory hath been illumined with the lights of Beauty, and the Desired One hath come from the heaven of utterance with majesty and grandeur.

Thou knowest, O God of the world and Lord of nations, Who hath been made manifest through the Most Great Name, that I have not been remiss in proclaiming Thy Cause. I summoned the people to the ocean of Thy gifts and the horizon of Thy favors even whilst bound in chains and fetters, whereby We caused all created things to hear the shrill voice of Thy Most Exalted Pen and revealed unto them that which the dwellers of the cities of names were powerless to recount. There remained no sovereign but I called him unto Thee and made known to him the horizon of Thy Revelation and the Dayspring of Thy power, no sage but We showed him the surging waves of the ocean of Thy knowledge and the manifestations of the Sun of Thy wisdom, no poor one but We guided him to the heaven of Thy riches, no thirsty one but We showed him the Kawthar of life in Thy days, no mystic but We imparted to him the signs of Thy knowledge, and no servant but We called him with utmost compassion to the horizons of Thy bounty, grace and generosity.

Thou knowest, O my God, that My Pen hath never ceased by night or by day, but was ever in motion in all conditions to make mention of Thee and sing Thy praise, until the horizons were filled with the manifestations of Thy sovereignty and might, and the signs of Thy grandeur and exaltation. How many nights did Thy servants rest while the Countenance of Glory stood in service to Thee, speaking Thy praise. In all that proceeded from Me, I desired naught save the sanctification of Thine Essence and the detachment of Thy Self from all images and similitudes, and the raising of the standards of Thy remembrance upon the peaks and hills.

Thou dost witness and behold, O my God, how the heart of Thy hidden, treasured, and manifest Name hath melted because of those who claim faith in Thy Self yet perpetrate that which causeth Thy Cause to be lost among Thy creatures. Thou didst command them, O my God, in Thy Scriptures and Tablets, to act with propriety and with the wisdom which Thou madest the foundation of utterance among Thy creatures and the essence of exposition for those who have turned to the Dawning-Place of Thy Cause. Among them are those who have transgressed Thy bounds and spoken that which was forbidden in Thy Book. O Lord! Aid them to immerse themselves in the ocean of Thy good-pleasure and to act in accordance with Thy commandments through Thy grace and favors. Then gather them, O my God, upon the shore of the sea of Thy oneness, then grant them the Kawthar of love and unity in Thy days, then assist them to serve and obey Thee, and make them dawning-places of wisdom and manifestations of trustworthiness, that there might appear from them that which befitteth their turning unto the horizon of Thy revelation. Verily, Thou art the Omnipotent over whatsoever Thou willest. There is none other God but Thee, the All-Compelling, the Self-Subsisting.

I beseech Thee, O my God, by the fire of Thy beauty and the light of Thy reunion, to ordain for Thy loved ones that which will draw them nigh unto the horizon of Thy good-pleasure and bring them to the ocean of Thy bounty. O Lord! Leave them not to themselves and their desires. Remind them in all conditions and at all times of that which hath been sent down from the heaven of Thy Will of the signs of Thy power, and of the clear tokens that have shone forth from the horizon of Thy might. By Thy glory! O Beloved of the hearts of the mystics and Goal of the hearts of the sincere ones! The thirst of my heart can be quenched only by the water of Thy remembrance and the remembrance of Thy loved ones, and my soul findeth no rest save through the verses of Thy unity and the manifestations of Thy detachment.

I beseech Thee, O Sovereign of the Messengers and Ordainer of Ways, to preserve those who have turned unto Thee from the promptings of self and passion, that they may turn wholly toward Thy most exalted horizon. Then create in their hearts that which will make them united in Thy Cause and detached from all else but Thee, that they may speak among Thy servants of Thy remembrance and praise, and act according to that which they have been commanded in Thy Book. O Lord! Make known to them the conditions of Thy days and that which Thou hast ordained for them through Thy bounty and favors. Verily, Thou art He Whose mercy hath preceded all existence, both seen and unseen. There is none other God but Thee, the All-Forgiving, the Most Generous.

Hear thou the Call from the upraised Tree on the luminous Spot: “There is none other God but Me, the Mighty, the Wondrous!” Thou didst turn to the Dayspring of thy Lord’s verses until thou didst attain the presence of the Throne and didst hear the voice of the Wronged One in this mighty Fortress. Give thanks unto God for having drawn nigh, attained His presence, and drunk the choice wine of utterance from the hands of the bounty of thy Lord, the Munificent, the Mighty, the Praiseworthy. The appointed time hath passed and the decree of return hath come. Return thou, by leave of the All-Merciful, with joy and fragrance, then remind the people of what hath been revealed in the Tablet, that perchance they may be awakened by God’s call and arise to that which hath escaped them in this resplendent and radiant Day.

We have commanded the servants to observe the Most Great Trustworthiness, yet they sport in the pastures of treachery; We have enjoined upon them in most of Our Tablets righteousness and godliness, yet they wander in the valley of their desires; We have called them to the ocean of life, yet they hasten to the pond; We have forbidden them to turn towards the precincts of the Throne, yet they turn and care not; We have commanded them in the Scriptures and Tablets to wisdom and utterance, yet they act according to their own passions—nay, they perceive not; We have enjoined upon them love and unity, yet they differ at all times, except those who have cast away their desires and what they possess, and have followed the command of God, the All-Compelling, the Self-Subsisting. These are the people of Baha among earth and heaven, upon whom the Concourse on High and the tongue of grandeur and glory in this praiseworthy station do send their blessings.

Convey My greetings to My loved ones who have fulfilled My Covenant, followed My laws, borne hardships in My path, and remained steadfast in My Cause, the unassailable, the mighty, the wise. Say: Be ye united in the Cause of God, then help it through such mention as will cause every hesitant one to hasten unto God, the Lord of the worlds. Beware lest the utterances of the ignorant sadden you or the commands of the oppressors frighten you. Hold fast unto that which is good in all circumstances, and commit not that which would cause the clamor of the idolaters to be raised. Put your trust in God; verily He will help you with truth. For every matter He hath ordained a time in His perspicuous Book. Cast differences behind you and unite in God’s Cause, then do that which ye have been commanded by One wise and knowing. May the glory rest upon thee and upon those who are illumined by the Lamp which God hath lit betwixt the heavens and the earth.

BH01105: O thou who gazest upon the countenance of God…

He is the Most Holy, the Most Mighty, the Most Generous

O thou who gazest upon the countenance of God, exalted and glorified be He! In most of His Tablets He hath enjoined wisdom upon His loved ones. Nevertheless, certain souls who claim attachment to the Truth speak of that which God hath not permitted. Although the triumph of God’s Cause in this Revelation hath been through praiseworthy conduct, goodly attributes, wisdom and utterance, yet some have perverted the meaning of triumph according to their own desires. The triumph of the Cause hath never been, nor shall it ever be, through disputation, contention, conflict and corruption. God is quit of those who speak of their own accord and bid men to do what they themselves have been forbidden in the Book of God, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

The triumph of Truth and the propagation of His Cause have been and shall ever be through wisdom and utterance, and utterance must needs be proportioned to the capacity of each soul. Say: O friends! It hath been revealed and sent down aforetime from the Supreme Pen that ye should scatter the seeds of divine wisdom and understanding in pure and goodly soil. Ye are spiritual physicians and true sages. Men are afflicted with the maladies of ignorance and unwisdom. The ailment of each one must needs be determined, and then treatment administered with the healing remedy of the Most Great Name according to his capacity and measure.

For instance, should one speak at the outset concerning Divinity to one of the followers of the Qur’an who is afflicted with the malady of vain imaginings and whose highest understanding is confined to the station of leadership and guardianship, he would surely perish, for he hath failed to comprehend the meaning of the Qur’anic verses concerning the Day of Resurrection and the appearance of Truth from the heaven of the Will of the Lord of Unity, nay, he hath not even caught their fragrance. Therefore, at first one must speak with him according to his capacity until he advanceth from the stage of childhood to the station of maturity and becometh able to bear the Most Exalted Word that hath shone forth from the Dayspring of the Will of the Lord of Names.

I swear by the Sun of the horizon of My sanctity! The harm and trials inflicted upon this Wronged One by the rulers, divines and peoples of the earth have never concerned Me. Rather, what has caused grief and affliction are the deeds that have been manifested by those who claim to love the Truth. Certain souls have turned towards the Most Holy Court without permission, and upon returning have spoken according to their own desires, attributing these to the Truth. Thus have some seekers become veiled by the deeds of others.

God has commanded all to be known for righteousness, religion, trustworthiness, truthfulness, purity, humanity and faithfulness. Nevertheless, they have acted with the utmost cunning and deceit in appropriating people’s wealth. Some have entered various lands declaring that the property of others is permissible for the friends to take and that the law of the Book has been abrogated. We seek refuge in God from such rejected utterances and abhorrent deeds!

The people of truth have no attachment or concern for their own wealth, let alone allowing their pure hands to be sullied with the property of other peoples. No one’s property is lawful unto another. Whosoever has today drunk from the waters of sanctity and turned towards the horizon of divine revelation must not stain his radiant hem with the dust of treachery. He who departs from this station has made mention of the Self-Sufficient, the Most High a snare for his own desires. Say: O My loved ones! Shun him and his like. Thus doth this momentous announcement inform you. Such harm hath touched My station that the Most Exalted Pen is occupied with these words. Weep then for My hurt and tribulation, O thou who gazest upon My countenance and speaketh My praise!

Say: The friends of God must be manifestations of divine wealth and contentment. The fragrance of sanctification and detachment must at all times waft from them for the purification of the world’s peoples, that every possessor of smell may discover from them what they find not from others. Blessed is he who hath heard the call of the Wronged One and followed what he was commanded in this mighty Tablet.

God’s forbearance hath caused some to become heedless, for whenever anyone outwardly proclaimed their faith, the outpourings of the ocean of grace were bestowed upon them, and later whatever appeared from them contrary to God’s good-pleasure was veiled. This forbearance and concealment became the cause of their heedlessness and boldness, to such extent that they considered God unaware and negligent. Say: Nay, by God! He is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed. He is the Truth, the Knower of the unseen. Nothing whatsoever escapeth His knowledge and with Him is a guarded tablet.

Much unwisdom hath appeared and continueth to appear from the loved ones. You must, according to your capacity, make the divine friends aware, that all may become informed of wisdom, teaching, and those matters that lead to the exaltation of the Cause.

Thy letter was previously received and We heard from it thy call to the Lord of the worlds and found from it the fragrance of thy sincerity and ardor in the love of God, the Lord of the knowing. Verily, thou hast a station with the Throne. Be thankful unto God for this great bounty. We have sent down this Tablet for thee that thou mayest inform the people of its contents, that perchance they may arise to fulfill what they were commanded in the Book of God, the Most Holy, the Sanctified, the Mighty, the Wondrous.

Convey My greetings to My loved ones who have been blessed by the breaths of My Pen and illumined by the lamp of My providence shining upon the worlds. Glory be upon thee and upon those with thee who hearken unto what thou speaketh concerning the Cause of God, the Almighty, the All-Powerful.

BH01717: God willing, may you, through the grace…

In the name of God, the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing!

God willing, may you, through the grace of the Beloved of all creation, be in all times the Bearer of the sealed wine and the Guardian of the Hidden Word, Who speaks among the world and summons the peoples unto God, the Lord of the worlds. Countless glances of grace have been and will be vouchsafed unto you. To this bear witness your heart, your soul, your tongue, your sight, your hearing, and that which the Pen of God hath set in motion in His holy and all-encompassing Tablets to all who are in the heavens and on earth. Draw hearts and souls to the utterances of your Lord and illumine the horizons with the lights of His shining and radiant countenance.

We complain unto you of those who claim to have faith yet commit that which tears asunder the veil of the sanctity of the Cause among the servants. They are indeed among the heedless ones.

O My Nabil! We have commanded all the loved ones to unity, harmony, love and fellowship, and likewise hath the Supreme Pen, from God, the Lord of Names, enjoined upon all goodly deeds and praiseworthy conduct. Nevertheless, there hath appeared from some that which causeth the Pen to be ashamed to mention. You must strive with complete effort in the education of souls and their refinement and improvement, dispensing to each according to their capacity from the Kawthar of divine knowledge. Most eyes have been weakened by the ophthalmia of vain imaginings and are not capable of beholding at first the world-illumining Sun. Therefore these weak eyes must be treated with the kohl of divine knowledge which is in truth the supreme remedy for healing the world’s ills, that they may become worthy to behold the Most Exalted Horizon and capable of hearing the words “Verily I am God.”

The dark clouds of desire have veiled the horizon of guidance, but God shall soon disperse them in truth. He is verily the Powerful, the Mighty. Though the ocean of utterance surgeth with its waves and the horizon of proof shineth with the light of knowledge, you witness the people, in what state they are and to what matters they cling. They have taken certain ignorant ones to be learned, and by the command and permission of those heedless souls have remained deprived and forbidden from the Dawning-Place of the Light of Oneness. Blessed is the strong one who rendeth asunder the veils through the name of his Lord, the Mighty, the Bestower.

O Nabil! Kindle the fire of My Word amongst My servants. By My life! It is a light by which the horizons of My kingdom and the hearts of My servants who are prevented therefrom today through following the ignorant ones shall be illumined. Though the divines of the age have become veils between Truth and creation, soon shall all confess their own loss and speak in praise of the loved ones of God. Should all the world unite with utmost striving and effort to extinguish the light of God and quench the fire of the divine Word, they shall prove powerless and shall find themselves impotent. God shall cause them and what they possess to perish, and there shall endure what He hath ordained for His loved ones who have held fast to His mighty cord and followed His straight path.

Let not what was mentioned in Our presence escape your notice. Speak such words as will cause the souls to be attracted and enkindled. Be not grieved by certain matters—their rectification rests with God. Be assured and be of the thankful ones. Convey My greetings to all the friends. Tell them: This is the day of assistance and this is the day of deeds, for whatever is missed by anyone today can never be regained. Blessed is he who forsaketh that which perisheth and turneth unto that which endureth. Upon you be the Glory, and upon those with you who have believed in God and followed what they were commanded in His mighty Tablet.

BH01881: The Supreme Pen hath, in the prison of ʿAkka…

In the Name of God, the All-Knowing!

The Supreme Pen hath, in the prison of ʿAkka, turned towards the loved ones in the land of Kha, that is, those souls who have been adorned with the new raiment, who are turned towards the horizon of oneness, and who revolve, through their essential, original motion, around the Will of God. Although this motion is mentioned as opposed to rest, yet it is sanctified from ascent and descent, and is exalted above vacillation and the comprehension of them that are bounded by limitations. Its effect is witnessed to be swifter than lightning and more penetrating than the winds. Nay, it is the cause and source of the appearance of the winds. These winds, if they be not mixed with carnal desires, will cause the effect of spring to appear in the realities of existence; otherwise, the effect of autumn will be manifest.

The source of this motion appeareth from the manifestations of the motion of the Primal Point, which in one station hath been interpreted as the First Mystery, the First Ornament, and the White Pearl, and from it the Fire of Oneness surgeth forth from the Blessed Tree, and the substance of burning is witnessed and concealed in all things. Exalted be God, the Sovereign, the Self-Subsisting, Who hath created that which all who are in the kingdom of earth and heaven have been powerless to know! Those souls who today hold fast to the divine commandments and act according to that which they have been bidden—We testify that they are the ones who move by the Will of God and they are the achievers of that which the Mighty, the Generous, hath desired for them.

The time foreordained unto the peoples and kindreds of the earth is now come. The promises of God, as recorded in the holy Scriptures, have all been fulfilled. Out of Zion hath gone forth the Law of God, and Jerusalem, and the hills and land thereof, are filled with the glory of His Revelation. Happy is the man that pondereth in his heart that which hath been revealed in the Books of God, the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsisting. Meditate upon this, O ye beloved of God, and let your ears be attentive unto His Word, so that ye may, by His grace and mercy, drink your fill from the crystal waters of constancy, and become as steadfast and immovable as the mountain in His Cause.

In the Book of Isaiah it is written: “Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of His majesty.” No man that meditateth upon this verse can fail to recognize the greatness of this Cause, or doubt the exalted character of this Day—the Day of God Himself. This same verse is followed by these words: “And the Lord alone shall be exalted in that Day.” This is the Day which the Pen of the Most High hath glorified in all the holy Scriptures. There is no verse in them that doth not declare the glory of His holy Name, and no Book that doth not testify unto the loftiness of this most exalted theme. Were We to make mention of all that hath been revealed in these heavenly Books and holy Scriptures concerning this Revelation, this Tablet would assume impossible dimensions. It is incumbent, in this Day, upon every man to place his whole trust in the manifold bounties of God, and arise to disseminate, with the utmost wisdom, the verities of His Cause. Then, and only then, will the whole earth be enveloped with the morning light of His Revelation.

O Pen! Make mention of him who attained the presence of the Throne and heard the call of this wronged exile. Verily, We have mentioned him and do mention him in this Tablet, that it may be a treasure and honor for him in the Kingdom of his Lord, the Mighty, the Inaccessible. Then make mention of his brother who attained unto this station and entered beneath the shadow of the mercy of his Lord, the Generous. Then of him who attained the presence aforetime, submissive and humble before the Command of God, the Lord of the worlds. We beseech God to assist all to recognize the Dawning-Place of His Cause and to draw them nigh unto the horizon of His Revelation, and to ordain for them that which He hath ordained for His chosen ones. Verily, He is the Almighty, the Most Exalted, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

BH01998: This is a letter from the Dawning-Place…

In the Name of the Kind Lord.

This is a letter from the Dawning-Place of the All-Merciful to the oppressed ones in the land of Zanjan. By My life! The heavens have wept at what hath befallen you, and the thunder hath lamented at what ye have suffered of harm and tribulation in the path of God, the Lord of all names. Ye are they who have been tried because of your belief in God, the Creator of the heavens. Grieve not; be patient. Your rewards are with your Lord—ye shall soon behold them in truth. He, verily, is the Almighty, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

Observe those who every year lament and wail over the oppression of the Prince of Martyrs—may the spirit of all else but Him be sacrificed for His sake—and His companions, and who curse the oppressors, while they themselves have manifested such tyranny that the oppression of former tyrants is as pure nothingness in comparison. In truth, they curse themselves and perceive it not. The sources of oppression today are the divines of the age, who have turned away from the truth and clung to their own idle fancies. I swear by the Sun of the horizon of divine unity that in former ages too, such souls were the cause of oppression, for through the decrees of heedless souls, the Manifestations of the glory of divine oneness have drunk the cup of martyrdom.

The soldiers who fought against the Prince of Martyrs were certain individuals who would fast three months every year, recite the Qur’an day and night, and never miss congregational prayers. Among them was ʿUmar Sa’d, who wore a cloak and turban, and who, immediately after the martyrdom of the Prince of Martyrs, led the congregational prayer which all followed. And Shimr Dhi’l-Jawshan was among the judges and divines, and his asceticism reached such a degree that he would clear thorns from the path lest they hurt the foot of any Muslim. Despite such asceticism, he dealt with the Treasury of Divine Knowledge and the Recipient of heavenly revelation as he dealt. Verily the Pen lamenteth and weepeth at what was wrought against Him by these oppressors who cast certitude behind their backs and followed the vain imaginings of every remote divine.

That which hath befallen you, though outwardly it appeareth as vengeance, hath been pure bounty and will prove to be sheer mercy. The might and power of the oppressors shall soon be brought to naught and shall vanish, while the reward of your deeds shall endure forever in the Kingdom of the Lord of Names. The oppression of the world and its sedition and corruption have been and shall be from the ignorant ones who are known as divines. This grace sufficeth you, that the Most Exalted Pen maketh mention of you with such mention as shall endure and remain forever and ever.

Praise be to God that through divine bounty and heavenly favor ye have drunk of the choice sealed wine and turned toward the dawning-place of the Countenance of the Self-Subsisting, and in the recognition of God have outstripped most of the peoples of the world. Your mention is renowned in the Concourse on High and your deeds are recorded by the Most Exalted Pen. Ye should occupy yourselves with the remembrance of God in complete joy and gladness and fix your gaze upon His horizon. The glory and the spirit rest upon you and upon the handmaidens of God who have stood firm in His Cause and have won the recognition of His Self, the Protector of the worlds.

BH02089: All servants have been created for the knowledge…

In the Name of the All-Seeing, the All-Knowing!

All servants have been created for the knowledge of God, and those who have today turned towards the Most Holy Court and the Most Great Name are commanded to teach the Cause of God. Among the conditions for teaching set forth in the Book of God is wisdom; therefore one must speak to each soul according to their capacity, so that through the hands of training of the true physicians they may attain the station of maturity.

Blessed art thou for having succeeded in teaching the Cause of thy Lord, the All-Knowing, the All-Informed. Again, blessed art thou for having spoken in praise of thy Lord and borne hardships in the path of thy Lord, the Most Exalted, the Mighty, the Praiseworthy. We were with thee when thou didst speak from this noble station. Be thou assured of God’s grace; verily He sufficeth thee in truth. He is the Protector of those who remember Him.

We make mention of thy father. We testify that he ascended unto God, the Protector, the Self-Subsisting. At the time of his ascension the Concourse on High and the dwellers of the Cities of Names welcomed him. How glorious is this mighty, exalted station! Blessed is he who draweth nigh unto him and visiteth him after his passing, saying:

“Glory be upon thee, O thou through whom the horizon of faith was illumined and through whom those near unto God turned towards the Lord of all that was and shall be. I testify that thou didst drink the choice wine of life in the days of thy Lord, the All-Merciful, that thou didst teach His Cause and speak His praise, the Mighty, the Beloved. Thou art he whom neither the idle fancies of the divines, nor the power of rulers, nor the clamor of those who turned away from this praiseworthy station could deter.”

Draw thou nigh unto his grave and be thou the first to visit him. Then recite what hath been revealed in this hidden Tablet. We have mentioned him in numerous Tablets. Verily thy Lord is the Helper, the Bestower, the Mighty, the Loving.

Convey the greetings of this Wronged One to all the friends in that land, that all may be gladdened by the sweet savors of the favors of the Dayspring of Divine verses. Say: Today it behooveth everyone to fix their gaze upon the horizon of the Cause and that which appeareth from His presence, and to occupy themselves with the refinement of their own souls, that all may be adorned with the ornament of trustworthiness, religiosity, truthfulness, purity, goodly deeds and whatsoever God hath revealed in the Book. Certain heedless souls have attributed themselves to the Truth and have become the cause of dissipating the Cause of God, having abandoned what is known and called people to that which is rejected. Say: O friends! Today pure words and sincere deeds are beloved, for aught else shall not ascend to the heaven of acceptance and hath been and shall ever be rejected. Say: O loved ones of God! Shun ye those who claim faith and attribute themselves to God while committing that which causeth all things to lament and the limbs of all names to tremble. Verily thy Lord is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed.

Under all conditions your honor must be vigilant over the Cause of God, lest the pure in heart be deprived of the straight path through the deception of some. Blessed is he who hath attained unto the wine of steadfastness. He is indeed among the most exalted of creation before the Truth, as attested by My Most Exalted Pen in this Clear Tablet. And the Glory rest upon thee and upon My loved ones in that place who have stood firm in this wondrous Cause.

BH02148: The drops of divine inspiration have trickled…

In the name of God, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise

The drops of divine inspiration have trickled from the leaves of the Divine Lote-Tree, through the aid of the breeze of the Will of the Lord of Names, taking the form of these words: O Ashraf! Thy letter was present before the Most Great Scene and was the object of the attention of the Lord of Destiny. Praise be to God that thou hast drunk from the Salsabil of the utterance of the All-Merciful and art occupied with the mention of God amongst the people. We have recognized the fire of thy love and heard thy call. Verily thy Lord is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing. Blessed art thou for having fulfilled the Covenant of God and His Testament, and for having chosen for thyself the service of this Great Announcement, whereby the limbs of the world have quaked, the nations have been convulsed, and the feet of the mystics have slipped. God willing, thou shalt at all times stand firm in the assistance of His Cause and be vocal in His remembrance—an utterance that silence cannot overtake, and a standing that no sitting can follow.

However, in all conditions ye must observe wisdom and summon the people with pure wisdom, for they are weak and heedless of the Dawning-Place of Divine Revelation and the Dayspring of the Lord’s Manifestation. If they witness something whose reality they fail to comprehend, they will surely avoid it. In such case the work of teaching would be impeded.

For example, the Blessed Birth occurred in Muharram—thus did God exalt it in truth and make it one of the festivals for His servants. Now if someone in Islamic lands were to outwardly observe the conditions of a festival during the month of Muharram, this would surely be contrary to wisdom, for most people are unaware of the blessedness of that day and what was born therein, and would suppose that the cause and reason for the festival was—God forbid—enmity towards the Prince of Martyrs, upon him be the most glorious of all glory. For they are ignorant and know not that the Dawning-Place of verses and the Manifestation of clear proofs hath appeared and speaketh. Moreover, they are heedless of the traditions that they themselves consider authentic, such as the saying of the Prince of Martyrs—may the spirit of all else be sacrificed for his sake—that after the Qa’im, One bearing the name Qayyum shall appear and all the Prophets and chosen ones shall gather beneath His shadow.

In brief, they are unaware of the Resurrection, the Day of God, and what hath appeared therein as revealed in the Qur’an and previous Books. They are intoxicated with the wine of passion and have turned away from the horizon of guidance. Woe unto them and unto those who follow them without clear proof or Book!

In view of God’s past mercy and the all-encompassing grace and favors of the Lord, ye should call all people with wisdom so that the attachments of existence may, through the wisdom and training of God’s friends, attain to the station of “Blessed be God, the best of creators.” Convey greetings from this Wronged One to all the friends and set them all ablaze with the fire kindled in the Blessed Tree, and adorn them with the ornament of unity and harmony and with that which God hath ordained in the Tablets.

Verily, the Glory be upon thee and upon those who have turned toward the Countenance after the passing away of all things. He is, verily, the Lord of Names and the Creator of the heavens. There is no God but Him, the Expositor, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.

BH02197: O people of Sansgar! The Most Exalted Pen…

In the Name of Him Who is the Goal of all the worlds!

O people of Sansgar! The Most Exalted Pen in the prison of Akka hath turned toward you and is occupied with your remembrance. This is naught but His infinite bounty. God willing, may ye be enkindled with the fire of the divine Lote-Tree and manifest such enkindlement as to ignite the hearts of the servants and souls in all lands. The clouds of idle fancies and vain imaginings of heedless souls have become an obstacle, preventing eyes from beholding the Sun of Truth. Beseech ye the True One, exalted be His glory, that through His complete power and prevailing will He may dispel them. Soon shall they be dispelled through His sovereignty. Verily He is the Almighty, the All-Compelling, the Self-Subsisting.

Today all must turn to the Truth and strive that some service may be rendered by them, for these days have no peer or likeness. Whosoever hath recognized God must, through the breath of the All-Merciful which is in truth the most great trumpet and the cause of life in the world, quicken dead souls and guide them to the shores of the ocean of knowledge. Fix not your gaze upon the world and what is therein, for all shall perish. Strive ye that deeds and actions may appear from you whose traces shall be eternal and everlasting.

The Most Holy Book hath been sent down from the holy divine Kingdom. All must act according to it. By the Educator of all being, I swear that the living waters are concealed within it and the breeze of the All-Merciful wafteth from it. Blessed are they who have clung unto it and held fast to it, who gather together in utmost joy and exultation to mention and praise the Word of God which gladdeneth hearts and quickeneth bodies, and who conduct themselves with wisdom, for corruption and contention have never been and never shall be praiseworthy. His mercy hath preceded all and His bounty hath encompassed all. His loved ones must appear with praiseworthy character and goodly attributes, and call the people to the horizon of grace with the utmost kindliness. Verily He guideth whom He willeth unto His straight path.

Rejoice in that ye have been mentioned by My Most Exalted Pen. By My life, nothing that hath been created in earth or heaven can equal it. The Lord of Names beareth witness to this, did ye but know. Let not the doings of men grieve you. Drink ye the choice wine of joy from the hand of the bounty of Him Who is the Dawning-Place of Revelation. This indeed is a manifest grace. Verily those who have believed today are, in the sight of God, the Lord of the worlds, among the denizens of Paradise.

Say: Glory be unto Thee, O God, Lord of the nations and Educator of the world! We beseech Thee by Thy Most Great Name, Who chose afflictions in Thy path and imprisonment in the most desolate of lands through His calling the people unto the Manifestation of Thyself, to make us among those who have stood firm in Thy Cause and arisen to serve Thee. Then ordain for us what shall profit us in all Thy worlds. Verily Thou art the Powerful over what Thou willest. There is none other God but Thee, the Bestower, the All-Forgiving, the All-Bountiful.

BH02346: Hearken in the Persian tongue to the call…

In the Name of the Most Holy, the Most Great, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise!

Hearken in the Persian tongue to the call of the Wronged One of the horizons. The whole world hath been created for the knowledge of God, and His knowledge is dependent upon the knowledge of the Manifestation of His Self and the Dawning-Place of His Revelation, inasmuch as that sanctified Being hath ever been, and will forever remain, sanctified from appearance and emergence, and exalted above ascent and descent. All the most beautiful names and most exalted attributes refer back to the Dawning-Place of God’s Cause, for He is the Manifestation of God amidst creation. Whoso hath known Him hath known God, and whoso hath turned away from Him hath turned away from God, the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsisting.

Whenever the Sun of Truth hath risen from the horizon of divine Will, all people have arisen in opposition and protest, save those souls who have rent asunder the veils of idle fancies with the fingers of certitude and have turned toward the manifest horizon. Today all must fix their gaze upon the horizon of the Cause, for if they turn to aught else besides Him and what proceedeth from His presence, they shall be veiled from the Truth and deprived of the fragrances of the days of God.

Consider the appearance of the Luminary of Truth from the horizon of Hijaz. In the early years, all the divines, men of letters and nobles united in complete opposition to shed His pure blood, yet after His Cause was exalted, a great multitude turned toward the divine horizon of revelation and the dawning-place of celestial light. However, some did so with complete submission and harmony, while others with the utmost duplicity and hypocrisy, as is recorded in detail in the books.

The purpose of this utterance is that certain souls who attribute themselves to the Truth, while soaring with the wings of self and desire, are not and have never been of the Truth. That honored one should remind all the loved ones of the divine virtues and heavenly commandments, that all may act according to what God hath willed and be adorned with the ornament of love, unity, friendship and concord.

Say: O people! Dispute not concerning the Cause of God. Follow that which ye have been commanded in the perspicuous Book. Beware lest the deeds of those who claim to believe should deter you. He who transgresseth My bounds is not of Me, except he repent and return unto God, the Forgiving, the Generous.

Verily, I rejoice in what thou hast mentioned before the Throne, and this wondrous Tablet hath been revealed for thee. Those who are heedless this day are indeed wandering in the wilderness of error. Say: Take ye the cup of steadfastness and assurance in the name of your Lord, the All-Merciful, then drink therefrom in spite of those who have disbelieved in God, the Lord of all worlds. Thus have We sent down the verses as a grace from Our presence upon thee, that thou mayest thank thy Lord and be of those who are firmly rooted. Praise be to God, the Lord of the worlds.

BH02595: The ocean of true knowledge streaming from the dayspring…

In the Name of the All-Knowing Expounder.

The ocean of true knowledge streaming from the dayspring of the mouth of the Will of Him Who is the All-Merciful hath revealed its splendour in the form of these words. The clouds of the idle fancies of the ignorant have made dark and gloomy the world’s luminous horizon; while the tyranny of the rulers hath rendered turbid the clear fount of tranquillity. Yet the day is approaching when the Divine decrees will have penetrated these intervening veils, and dissipated these various impediments and obstacles.

Say: O friends! What need is there for consternation, what cause for fear? Never hath there been, nor is there now, any doubt that all who are endowed with spirit shall one day be overtaken, and seized upon, by death. Such being the case, if this death be converted into martyrdom, and take place in the path of God, it would assuredly be preferable. Every intelligent and thinking person will testify that this station hath ever been, and ever shall be, the loftiest of all stations.

All men are commanded to observe wisdom, and forbidden to engage in mischief, strife and contention; yet should aught befall, then with perfect resignation must they direct their steps unto the scene of sacrifice in the path of the Incomparable Friend.

I swear by the Sun of the horizon of sanctity! Should a soul quaff from the cup of knowledge the crystal waters of the love of the All-Merciful, never would he be moved by the wrong of the oppressor and the onslaught of the tyrant even to sadness, how much less to fear and consternation!

Please God, thou wilt acquaint all the wayfarers in the Straight Path with that which hath been sent down in this Tablet from the Pen of the All-Merciful, so that, with the utmost joy and gladness, they may be occupied with the remembrance of Him Who is the Lord of all men.

Say: The Pen of the Most High affirmeth: the death of each soul is predetermined in the Book of God, neither shall it be advanced or delayed by a single moment. Is it then seemly that the lover should shrink from meeting his Beloved, or be sorrowed by the prospect of laying down his life in the pathway of the Adored One? Nay, by Myself, the True One! And yet the people for the most part apprehend it not.

Say: Sanctify and purify the hearts, that they may discover a window giving onto the Most Great Ocean: thereafter neither the hosts of the world, nor the clamours of the champions of the nations, shall have the power to keep such souls back from Him Who is the King of Eternity. Do thou then beseech God graciously to confirm and assist them in such wise that they may soar up on the wings of longing unto God, the Supreme King, the All-Knowing, the All-Informed.

We, verily, have made mention of thee aforetime, and in this wondrous Tablet, that thou mayest be well assured of the grace of thy Lord, and mayest relate unto the people that which hath proceeded from His Most Holy, His All-Glorious, and His Most Exalted Pen. The Glory of God rest upon thee, and upon all those who have held fast unto the commandments of God, the Lord of all worlds.