Centenary Year ~ Reflecting on the Life of ‘Abdu’l-Baha
July 31, 1912
Day 112: Abbott Thayer, Father of Camouflage 239 Days in America article
Dublin painter Abbott Thayer sees the presence of God reflected in the everyday displays of nature.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 31, 1912 Dublin, NH ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visited a summer school and was enthusiastically received by the students
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 31, 1912 Dublin, NH Responding to a question concerning the word “obey” in marriage ceremony I told Him that many people objected to having “obey” in the marriage service among the promises made by the woman. He answered that it should not be there, as God intended the man and the woman to be one and the use of the word obey assumes two. He was profound, joyous, amusing!
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 31, 1912 Dublin, NH Saying good bye to one of the believers
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 31, 1912 Dublin, NH Walking with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the “bird cage”
African American Baha’is at the time of Jim Crow:
How a Baha’i Letter to a Black Man Revealed Dignity and Justice (NSA to Mr. D. A. Dorsey – August 17, 1926) CHRISTOPHER BUCK | SEP 20, 2018 PART 47 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
Why Did Early Black Civic Leaders Become Baha’is? CHRISTOPHER BUCK | SEP 25, 2018 PART 48 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
A number of newspaper articles show that Sarah E. Thompson was a civic leader, as was Dana A. Dorsey himself. In fact, the two civic leaders are associated in an article about an epidemic of Spanish influenza that swept Miami in 1918—when a “temporary hospital in colored town” was set up to treat African Americans stricken by the epidemic.. Sarah E. Thompson, president of the federation of colored women’s clubs The Miami Baha’i membership list “Mrs. S. E. Thompson,” as a new Baha’i, on the 1928–1929 updated list. The news article also list D. A. Dorsey as the owner of the building in which this “temporary hospital in colored town” was set up.
July 30, 1912
Day 111: George de Forest Brush, “Lover of Indians” 239 Days in America article
Dublin painter George de Forest Brush brings European Orientalism to his romantic depictions of America’s Native
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 30, 1912 Dublin, NH “Confirmation is not dependent on talent, knowledge or wisdom … everything comes about through the assistance of God.”
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 30, 1912 Dublin, NH Examples of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s gentleness and kindness
African American Baha’is at the time of Jim Crow:
How Miami’s Renowned Black Entrepreneur Became a Baha’i (Dana Albert Dorsey) CHRISTOPHER BUCK | AUG 24, 2018 PART 44 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
What Happened in Miami when the Baha’is Integrated CHRISTOPHER BUCK | SEP 1, 2018 – PART 46 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION
How the Baha’is Fought Jim Crow in Miami CHRISTOPHER BUCK | SEP 30, 2018 – PART 49 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION “a weekly meeting is being conducted regularly at the Dorsey Hotel, a centre for the progressive Negro population of this Southern metropolis. Its owner, Mr. D. A. Dorsey, is a colored financier, highly regarded by all the promoters of Greater Miami. Having accumulated more than five million dollars, [Mr. Dorsey] is now actively engaged in founding a Model Negro City near Miami, in which he has donated a site for a [Baha’i House of Worship].”
July 29, 1912
Day 110: July 29, 1912: The Week Ahead 239 Days in America article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá settles in with the residents of Dublin, New Hampshire, we take a look at the week ahead.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 29, 1912 Dublin, NH Troubles we “endure for the sake of name and fame”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 29, 1912 Dublin, NH “… our happiness consists in service to the Most Holy Threshold.”
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 29, 1912 Dublin, NH ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explained a method of taxation which would produce peace and plenty for all
News Clip:
San Francisco California Chronicle July 29, 1912 A Prophet from the East ” To his personal name, Abbas Effendi, or Sir Abbas, has been appended the magnificent Arabic title ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “The Slave of the Glory,” a parallel to the equally splendid designations Abd ur Rahman. “The Slave of the Merciful,” and Abd ur Rahim “The Slave of the Compassionate,” by which pious Moslems expressed their whole-hearted subjection to the will of Allah, the most high.”
African American Baha’is at the time of Jim Crow:
Meet Miami’s First Black Millionaire, Who Worked to Worship (Dana Albert Dorsey) CHRISTOPHER BUCK | AUG 24, 2018 PART 43 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
July 28, 1912
Day 109: A Different Side of America 239 Days in America article
Unlike in New York and the big cities, a different kind of American experience unfolds in Dublin, New Hampshire.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 28, 1912 Dublin, NH The Master’s affection and love for Mirza Abu’l-Fadl
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 28, 1912 Dublin, NH ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke English and radiated happiness
Mahmud’s Diary: July 28, 1912 Dublin, NH “… we have nothing to do with political affairs …”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 28, 1912 Dublin, NH An example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s innate knowledge
Mahmud’s Diary: July 28, 1912 Dublin, NH Like mirrors, the hearts of the Manifestations of God reflect attributes of God
Seeing Race through Abdu’l-Baha’s Eyes JAMAR M. WHEELER | NOV 8, 2020 at BahaiTeachings.org
July 27, 1912
Day 108: The Modern Science of Breeding Better People 239 Days in America article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá talks with Agnes Parsons about her handicapped son, scientists in London meet to discuss the emerging science of…
Diary Entries:
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 27, 1912 Dublin, NH ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was asked about the significance of color red
Mahmud’s Diary: July 27, 1912 Dublin, NH Receiving visitors at Parsons’ residence
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 27, 1912 Dublin, NH Sightseeing and visiting with the friends of the Parsons
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 27, 1912 Dublin, NH ‘Abdu’l-Bahá insisted on paying all of His expenses
Mahmud’s Diary: July 27, 1912 Dublin, NH Greatness of Bahá’í Dispensation and its effect on civilization
How a Letter to America Raised the Call for Divine Justice VAHID HOUSTON RANJBAR | OCT 27, 2020 at BahaiTeaching.org (This article gives us overview of the historical background for the social conditions that ‘Abdu’l-Baha was facing. It includes excerpts from Coralie Franklin Cooks letter to ‘Abdu’l-Baha.)
July 26, 1912
Day 107: A Sleepy Morning in Dublin, New Hampshire 239 Days in America article
The unorthodox inhabitants of small country resort town awaken to find ‘Abdu’l-Bahá among them.
Diary Entries:
Agnes Parsons’ Diary: July 26, 1912 Dublin, NH ‘Abdu’l-Bahá sees what is within a human being rather than just their actions
Mahmud’s Diary: July 26, 1912 Dublin, NH Praising the faith of an American believer and foreseeing its impact on her family Ere long the whole of her family [Mrs. Krug’s] will consider the faith of that lady as the crown of honor on their heads.
Mahmud’s Diary: July 26, 1912 Dublin, NH Tablet of the Báb to Nasiri’d-Din Shah
Mahmud’s Diary: July 26, 1912 Dublin, NH Shaykh Salman, messenger of Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablets to believers in Persia
New Clips:
Concord NH Monitor July 26, 1912 Concord, NH Remarkable Persian Sage
Boston Massachusetts Evening Herald July 26, 1912 Boston, MA Syrian Meal For Persian Prophet
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Shining Lamp: Coralie Franklin Cook: In 1898, she married George William Cook, a dean and professor at Howard University in Washington, D.C. Coralie joined the Howard faculty and became the Chair of Oratory. Coralie and George learned about the Bahá’í Faith (1910), and they soon began hosting Bahá’í meetings on campus. When ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the leader of the Faith, spoke at Howard in 1912, the Cooks helped to organize the event…In 1914, Coralie wrote to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and described the crisis of racism in America. She wrote, “Race relationship … is in a deplorable condition.” She called on her fellow Bahá’ís to “stand by the teachings though it requires superhuman courage …” Source: Brilliant Star Magazine
Letter to Abdu’l-Baha from Coralie F. Cook
The First Convention for Amity Between the Races Coralie Franklin Cook is on the program to give the first address on Saturday evening, May 21, “Colored Poets and Their Poetry”. CHRISTOPHER BUCK | MAY 21, 2021 PART 62 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
African American Oral History Project Coralie Franklin Cook College teacher * Public speaker *School board member | She is also the first known descendant among those enslaved at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate to graduate from college. (Contains a powerful quote from one of her speeches.)
Gifted Colored Woman Coralie Franklin Cook to Speak in this City Thursday Night Rochester Democrat and Chronicle Monday, December 8, 1902 …Rochester people who heard her speech two years ago in the Lafayette Opera House, Washington, D. C., on the occasion of Susan B. Anthony’s eightieth birthday, to an audience of 3,000, give assurance that a rare treat is in store for all who go to listen to her story.
July 25, 1912
Day 106: What Can the Hypocrite Know? 239 Days in America article
Before leaving Boston, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá lays out the standard of conduct he expects from Bahá’u’lláh’s followers.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 25, 1912 Boston, MA “We have come for work and service and not for leisure.” As this place is a summer resort and many prominent people are present, therefore, unless they should themselves ask, the friends should not teach openly. They must deal with them with perfect dignity and honor.
News Clips:
Philadelphia PA Telegraph July 25, 1912 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Message In the coming of this bearded man from the East asking again in effect, “How can a man love his Father in Heaven, whom he hath not seen, if he love not his brother on earth, whom he hath seen?” there is a powerful appeal to the spiritual emotions…This wise man from the East is a sign of the times. In him is embodied in large degree that new spirit of world-wide unity which so powerfully moves all races in this age.
PUP: July 25, 1912 Talk at Hotel Victoria Boston, Massachusetts Two Susceptibilities – Natural Emotions, Spiritual Susceptibilities What is the dust which obscures the mirror? It is attachment to the world, avarice, envy, love of luxury and comfort, haughtiness and self-desire; this is the dust which prevents reflection of the rays of the Sun of Reality in the mirror…. But sincerity, justice, humility, severance, and love for the believers of God will purify the mirror and make it radiant with reflected rays from the Sun of Truth.
A Gift of Trousers Source: Stories About Abdu’l-Baha | Portals to Freedom | bahai.us CENTENARY 2021
July 24, 1912
Day 105: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Science Proves the Human Spirit 239 Days in America article
In Boston, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá argues that human intelligence differs from nature not just in degree, but in kind.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 24, 1912 Boston, MA Selecting a universal language
Mahmud’s Diary: July 24, 1912 Boston, MA Talks on themes such as special deeds, East-West relationship, and immortality of human spirit
PUP: July 24, 1912 Talk to Theosophical Society, Boston, Massachusetts The Spirit of Man is the Most Noble of Phenomena
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
How One Baha’i Battled Jim Crow a look at the remarkable accomplishments of the distinguished African American Baha’i, Professor George W. Henderson, that tries to understand his legacy of positive progress in the face of enormous resistance in the pre-integration Jim Crow South. CHRISTOPHER BUCK | JUN 24, 2015 | PART 29 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
July 23, 1912
Day 104: A Modern Prophet 239 Days in America article
Elbert Hubbard, America’s maverick columnist, profiles ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for Hearst’s Magazine.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 23, 1912 New York, NY Juliet manages to say good-bye to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Mahmud’s Diary: July 23, 1912 Boston, MA ‘Abdu’l-Bahá arrives in Boston
Mahmud’s Diary: July 23, 1912 Dublin, NH Some of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s entourage arrived in Dublin
Mahmud’s Diary: July 23, 1912 Boston, MA ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s purpose in coming to America
PUP: July 23, 1912 Talk at Hotel Victoria Boston, Massachusetts Rich Shall Most Willingly Extend Assistance to the Poor The Bahá’ís must not engage in political movements which lead to sedition…The Bahá’í Cause covers all economic and social questions under the heading and ruling of its laws…Hearts must be so cemented together, love must become so dominant that the rich shall most willingly extend assistance to the poor and take steps to establish these economic adjustments permanently…Strive, therefore, to create love in the hearts in order that they may become glowing and radiant. When that love is shining, it will permeate other hearts even as this electric light illumines its surroundings…Reflect upon it. Endeavor to become the cause of the attraction of souls rather than to enforce minds. Manifest true economics to the people. Show what love is, what kindness is, what true severance is and generosity… Now is the time for you to live in accordance with His words. Let your deeds be the real translation of their meaning. Economic questions will not attract hearts. The love of God alone will attract them. Economic questions are most interesting; but the power which moves, controls and attracts the hearts of men is the love of God.
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Memphis 1917: Building Racial Unity in the Lynching Era Includes a letter from Alfred Eastman Lunt (a Baha’i lawyer in Beverly, MA) to Professor George W. Henderson (see article below). Also a story of how Alfred Lunt represented Sarah Farmer regarding the Green Acre property and took the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court and saved Green Acre. Also Alfred Lunt was told he had to chose between his Faith and his law firm and he resigned and opened his own law firm. – CHRISTOPHER BUCK | DEC 27, 2015 | PART 34 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
July 22, 1912
Day 103: July 22, 1912: The Week Ahead 239 Days in America article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá prepares to leave New York for a trip to the New England countryside, we take a look at the week ahead…He delayed his trip until tomorrow so that he could meet Prince Muhammad-‘Alí Páshá, the brother of Egypt’s ruler, who came to visit him today.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 22, New York, NY Visiting an Egyptian Prince, the brother of the Khedive of Egypt When the prince returned to Egypt he published an account of his journey, describing his visit with the Master: Age has not altered his extraordinary sagacity and infinite intelligence. He stayed with me for an hour and conversed on diverse subjects of great importance and usefulness, which amply testified to his vast knowledge and wide experience. Truly, he is a man of science and knowledge and is one of the exalted personages of the East…. I understood that this revered personage, because of the weakness of the Americans, had brought such a large number of Persians with him so that he might draw attention to himself. I do not mean this to lower the dignity of this great man, nay, on the other hand, it shows his great intelligence and indicates his vast knowledge of the way by which he may impress the minds of the people so they may turn towards him. His numerous, most impressive speeches have found a wide circulation in America. Indeed, the newspapers and periodicals are still publishing them with commentaries by the learned men of their religion. His influence has reached to such a prominence that bigoted and jealous people are protesting vigorously against him.
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 22, New York, NY “I pray that you may become the candle of New York, spreading the Light of Love all around you.”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 22, New York, NY The meaning of long lives mentioned in certain ancient books and narratives …it was a custom in former times to mention a dynasty or family by the name of one person only. However, the people in the following ages thought that the length of time that a family survived was the length of the life of that family’s founder.
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Henderson Bahai College See Ad: “World’s Famous Typist” and “Shorthand Wizard” – George W. Henderson founded Henderson Business College in 1912. A few years later he became a Baha’i, added Baha’is to the faculty and integrated Baha’i ethics into the curriculum. `Abdu’l-Baha corresponded about the college:…Writing directly to the college, Abdu’l-Baha wrote:… Source:`Abdu’l-Baha, The Baha’i World | Pupil of the Eye | bahai.us CENTENARY 2021
See Also: The First Baha’i College CHRISTOPHER BUCK | MAR 30, 2014 PART 11 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
Lost Memphis: Henderson Business College The school was a two-year institution for African-Americans, offering degrees in “Stenographic, Secretarial, Executive Secretarial, Junior Accounting, Higher Accounting, and Business Administration,” The school was actually founded in Knoxville in 1912 by George Henderson, “whose material wealth was just $2.20 and two used typewriters,” …
July 21, 1912
Day 102: Deeds, Not Words 239 Days in America article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá stresses the need for action to accompany high-minded rhetoric.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 21, New York, NY “The Sun of Truth has risen always in the East and yet it has shone with greater luster in the West.”
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Laying a Great Man to Rest—the Final Interment of Alain Locke Alain Locke (1885–1954) On September 13, 2014 the ashes of that great American philosopher, Alain Locke, were finally laid to rest at the Congressional Cemetery, Washington DC. (Includes a video of the full Internment Ceremony hosted by the American Association of Rhodes Scholars.) | CHRISTOPHER BUCK | OCT 7, 2014 PART 21 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
July 20, 1912
Day 101: The Secret of Divine Civilization 239 Days in America article
Decades before the American election of 1912, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had argued for enlightened leadership in an open letter to Persia.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 20, New Jersey, NJ Invitation from the Consul General of Turkey
News Clip:
Nashville Tenn July 20, 1912 ‘Abdul-Bahá Abbas Universal peace, universal religion and universal brotherhood are advocated by ‘Abdul-Bahá Abbas, the Persian prophet who is said to have fourteen million followers.
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Black Plato on World Citizenship Includes an audio clip of Alain Locke courtesy of the Library of Congress | CHRISTOPHER BUCK | JUL 25, 2014 – PART 17 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
July 19, 1912
Day 100: 1912: A Year Supreme with Possibilities 239 Days in America article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá crosses America in 1912, the Progressive Era is reaching a climax.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 19 The story of Juliet’s rosary
Mahmud’s Diary: July 19 Speaking about the martyrs of the Faith and visiting Mirza Valiyu’llah Khan, the son of Varqa
African American Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha:
Alain Locke: the Pulitzer Prize, Legacy and Privacy Includes a tribute by ‘Abdu’l-Baha and a letter from Shoghi Effendi to Alain Locke | CHRISTOPHER BUCK | JAN 12, 2020 – PART 54 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
July 18, 1912
Day 99: “Bind Ye the Broken With the Hands of Justice” 239 Days in America article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s father, Bahá’u’lláh, called on the leaders of the New World to establish justice.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 18 “I desire for you that which I desire for My own daughters, Tuba and Ruha” (photo of Tuba & Ruha)
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 18 Blessing the six-year old son of Juliet’s maid
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 18 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá blessed the marriage of Grace Robarts and Harlan Ober
Mahmud’s Diary: July 18 Examples of individuals who are worthy of service and sacrifice in this great Cause of God
Sacrificial Service Source: Vignettes from the Life of ‘Abdu’l-Baha bahai.us CENTENARY 2021
July 17, 1912
Day 98: “Have Mercy on Yourselves and on Those… 239 Days in America article
While in prison in 1868, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s father, challenged the monarchs of the nineteenth century.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 17 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explains the principles that He incorporates in His Talks
Helen Keller – Author, Activist, Baha’i? BahaiTeachings.org
Power of the Holy Spirit – Paris Talks at bahai.us CENTENARY 2021
July 16, 1912
Day 97: Join the Conversation! 239 Days in America article
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 16 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s care and compassion
Mahmud’s Diary: July 16 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá chanted a prayer at the wedding of Harlan Ober and Grace Robarts The Master had instructed that the wedding be performed according to the law of Christianity and it was performed by the minister. After the ceremony, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá rose and chanted a prayer, blessing the marriage of the two devoted believers.
Mahmud’s Diary: July 16 God is holy beyond comprehension
Mahmud’s Diary: July 16 “… the cause of all these calamities and troubles in the world of creation”
News Clips:
The Evening News
July 16, 1912 San Jose, CA Plan Suggested For a Universal Religion
BWNS July 13, 2021 “This must stop”: Anti-Bahá’í propaganda intensifies in Iran, evokes global outcry
July 15, 1912
Day 96: July 15, 1912: The Week Ahead 239 Days in America article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá prepares for his final week in New York, we take a look at what’s coming up.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 15 Cheerful and animated gathering at MacNutt’s home
News Clips:
The Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Press
July 15, 1912 Aged Head of New Religion Gives Views – Approves Woman’s Suffrage and Divorce, and Wants to Bring About Peace, and Unity of Nations
L. A. PA. Public Ledger July 15, 1912 New York Urges Universal Religion – ‘Abdul-Bahá Declares All Mankind Sprang From One Root.
The Brooklyn Daily Eagle July 15, 1912 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Abbas, Persian Prophet – ‘Abdul-Bahá Abbas, Persian prophet, sees men and women again equal as they were in the Garden of Eden.
New York Herald July 15, 1912 Persian Prophet Preaches
New York Times July 15, 1912 Pleads For Religious Unity – Sectarianism Should Not Be a Bar to Peace, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Says.
The Van Wert Daily Bulletin July 15, 1912 Van Wert, OH Pointed Points – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, in his preaching of a universal religion, says this: “If a religion be the cause of hatred and disharmony, it would be better for it not to exist than to exist.”
PUP: July 15, 1912 Talk at Home of Dr. and Mrs. Florian Krug Real Thankfulness is a Cordial Giving of Thanks from the Heart Ye must read the Tablets — the Hidden Words, Ishraqat, Glad Tidings — all the holy utterances, and act according to them. This is real thanksgiving, to live in accord with these utterances. This is true thankfulness and the divine bestowal. This is thanksgiving and glorification of God…I hope you all may attain thereto, be mindful of these favors of God and be attentive. It is my hope that I may go away from New York with a happy heart, and my heart is happy when the friends of God love each other, when they manifest the mercy of God to all people. If I see this, I shall go away happy.
July 14, 1912
Day 95:Religion: The Greatest Cause of Human… 239 Days in America article
In Brooklyn, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá addresses one of the city’s largest congregations on the subject of unity.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 14 Exhausting daily activities
News Clips:
Charlotte Daily Observer July 12, 1912 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the Persian Philosopher He says: “If a religion be the cause of hatred and disharmony it would be better for it not to exist.” The truth underlying his philosophy always appealed immensely to me.
Excerpts from PUP talk:
PUP: July 14, 1912 Talk at All Souls Unitarian Church Reason is the First Faculty of Man, Religion is in Harmony with It – Today I wish to speak to you upon the subject of the oneness of humanity…Although in former centuries and times this subject received some measure of mention and consideration, it has now become the paramount issue and question in the religious and political conditions of the world…Bahá’u’lláh has proclaimed and provided the way by which hostility and dissension may be removed from the human world. He has left no ground or possibility for strife and disagreement…The greatest cause of human alienation has been religion because each party has considered the belief of the other as anathema and deprived of the mercy of God… [Bahá’u’lláh] says, “Ye are all the leaves of one tree.” He does not say, “Ye are the leaves of two trees: one divine, the other satanic.” He has declared that each individual member of the human family is a leaf or branch upon the Adamic tree;…Another cause of dissension and disagreement is the fact that religion has been pronounced at variance with science…Bahá’u’lláh has removed this form of dissension and discord from among mankind and reconciled science with religion by revealing the pure teachings of the divine reality. This accomplishment is specialized to Him in this Day…Still another cause of disagreement and dissension has been the formation of religious sects and denominations…Bahá’u’lláh has said, “If religion and faith are the causes of enmity and sedition, it is far better to be nonreligious, and the absence of religion would be preferable…Other sources of human dissension are political, racial and patriotic prejudices. [Bahá’u’lláh] has said… that the world of humanity is one race, the surface of the earth one place of residence and that these imaginary racial barriers and political boundaries are without right or foundation. Diversity of languages has been a fruitful cause of discord… Bahá’u’lláh advocated one language as the greatest means of unity and the basis of international conference…Another teaching of Bahá’u’lláh is in relation to universal peace: that all mankind must be awakened to and become conscious of the harm of war..Lack of equality between man and woman is, likewise, a cause of human dissension…If God has created one perfect and the other defective, He is unjust. But God is just; all are perfect in His intention and creative endowment. To assume imperfection in the creature is to presuppose imperfection in the almighty Creator. The soul that excels in attainment of His attributes and graces is most acceptable before God…Do not question the practicability of this, and be not astonished. It has been accomplished and effected in Persia. In that country the various religionists have conjoined in investigating reality and have united in complete fellowship and love. No traces of discord or differences remain among them; now affection and unity are manifest instead…those souls who have followed Bahá’u’lláh and attained this condition of fellowship and affiliation are Muslims, Jews, Christians, Zoroastrians, Buddhists, Nestorians, Sunnites, Shiites and others. No discord exists among them. This is a proof of the possibility of unification among the religionists of the world through practical means…Consider how all the Prophets of God were persecuted and what hardships They experienced. Jesus Christ endured affliction and accepted martyrdom upon the cross in order to summon mankind to unity and love. What sacrifice could be greater? He brought the religion of love and fellowship into the world. Shall we make use of it to create discord, violence and hatred among mankind? Moses was persecuted and driven out into the desert, Abraham was banished, Muhammad took refuge in caves, the Báb was killed and Bahá’u’lláh was exiled and imprisoned forty years. Yet all of Them desired fellowship and love among men. They endured hardships, suffered persecution and death for our sakes that we might be taught to love one another and be united and affiliated instead of discordant and at variance…O my God! O my God! Verily, I invoke Thee and supplicate before Thy threshold, asking Thee that all Thy mercies may descend upon these souls. Specialize them for Thy favor and Thy truth…
July 13, 1912
Day 94: “Every Child Is Potentially the Light of the World” 239 Days in America article
The moral education of children was an important thread in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s American discourse.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 13, Great reception at Unitarian Church Not wishing to greet the audience one by one owing to the excessive heat and the strain of His exertions, the Master went into the pastor’s office and waited. The pastor told ‘Abdu’l-Bahá that people from the audience were waiting outside to shake hands with Him and to thank Him so the Master came out and stood on the platform. In great humility and reverence the people came one by one in a file from one side, shook His hand and left from the other side.
News Clips:
The Brooklyn Daily Eagle July 13, 1912 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the “Persian prophet,” will speak at All Souls’ Unitarian Church, Manhattan, at 11 a. m. tomorrow.
Abdu’l-Baha’s 1912 Howard University Speech: A Civil War Myth for Interracial Emancipation by Christopher Buck published in Abdu’l-Bahá’s Journey West: The Course of Human Solidarity (Tuesday, April 23, 1912 – Washington DC)
July 12, 1912
Day 93: The Short and Fearless Life of Lua Getsinger 239 Days in America article
Lua Getsinger was the first American to make the perilous journey to meet ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Palestine.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 12, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s conversation with Reverend Percy Grant
(Very interesting diary entry covers numerous topics. Percy takes a very combative approach and it shows how the Master gently and patiently answers him.) On the current topic of the Olympics: Physically [man] is an animal, yet inferior to the animals, for animals acquire their sustenance with the greatest ease, whereas man has to toil incessantly, to labour with infinite pain, for a mere livelihood. So, in the physical realm, the beast is nobler than man. But man is distinguished from the beast by his spiritual gifts and these he should develop with the other, both together. There should be the perfect balance, the spiritual and the physical… When one prays, one sometimes has divine glimpses. So, when one is spiritually developed, a sublimity of nature is obtained, a delicacy of vision such as could not otherwise be found. Not only this, but tranquillity and happiness are secured…Remember Christ, when they placed the crown of thorns on His head. At that very moment, as the thorns wounded His brow, He looked down the vista of the centuries and beheld innumerable kings bowing their jewelled crowns low before that crown of thorns. Do you think He did not know, that He could not foresee? When they spat in the face of Christ…when they made a mock procession and carried Him around the streets, He felt no humiliation…The people of the East, He said, were content with less than the people here, so their hours of work were shorter…The most important of the questions here…is the economic question. Until that is first solved nothing can be done. But if it should not be solved there will be riots.
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 12,‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to Juliet’s house
Kahlil Gibran came. He had a private talk with the Master in my room…What a good room. said the Master as He entered it. It is like an Oriental room — so high. If I were to build a house here…I would build an eclectic house — partly Oriental, partly Occidental.
Mahmud’s Diary: July 12, The uniqueness of the divine teachings of this great Cause
Among them are: 1. The establishment of the Covenant and the Expounder of the Book, thereby closing the door on the differences that have arisen at the inception of past Dispensations; 2. Association with all religions; 3. The prohibition of cursing or execrating other sects; 4. The commandment to forgive enemies; 5. The oneness of humanity and universal brotherhood; 6. The giving and taking in marriage from all nationalities; 7. The injunctions to parents to educate their children, whether boys or girls; 8. The equality of the rights of men and women; 9. The establishment of the supreme House of Justice as the center of authority; 10. The relinquishing of religious, patriotic, racial and political prejudices.
Mahmud’s Diary: July 12, “I look always for the foundation of the love of God in the realm of the hearts.”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 12, Not to form any habits … Do you have any sandwich breads available?
Mahmud’s Diary: July 12, Testimony of former Persian Ambassador in Constantinople about Bahá’u’lláh
Mahmud’s Diary: July 12, Hot weather took a toll on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
July 11, 1912
Day 92: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Journey So Far: Month Three 239 Days in America article
Highlights from the third month of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journey through America.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 11, A Feast for neighbourhood children – A little yellow-haired girl came running up the stoop to me. She seemed to be the spokesman for the others. Breathlessly she asked: “Please, ma’am, tell us. Is He Christ?”
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 11, “Your pure heart is a magnet for the Divine feelings.”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 11, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá encouraged Bahá’ís to visit one another’s homes – so that it may be the cause of promoting love and happiness.
Encouraging Others JOHN DAVID BOSCH travels from California to New York to meet ‘Abdu’l-Baha. “Foolishly I said, “Oh, ‘Abdu’l-Baha, I came three thousand miles to see you.’ He gave a good hearty laugh … And He said, ‘I came eight thousand miles to see you.’ bahai.us CENTENARY 2021
July 10, 1912
Day 91: Heat Wave Knocks Out the Northeast 239 Days in America article
‘Abdu’l-Baha insists on staying in New York as an epic heat wave hammers the country
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 10, He who possesses truthfulness possesses all virtues
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 10, “You must be immersed in a sea of light.”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 10, American couple received permission to go to Tabriz, Persia
Mahmud’s Diary: July 10, Meaning of Tablets of chrysolite mentioned in Hidden Words
Mahmud’s Diary: July 10, The amazing range of subjects that the Master commented on, one after the other
The following includes a Provisional Translation of a beautiful tablet (like a poem) ‘Abdu’l-Baha wrote on the Martyrdom of the Báb
Martyrdom of the Báb Excerpt from a Talk 23 May 1912, at Home of Mr. and Mrs. Francis W. Breed – Cambridge, Massachusetts bahai.us CENTENARY 2021 (PUP: full text here)
July 9, 1912
Day 90: The Jewish Watchman and the Blue Whale 239 Days in America article
At the Museum of Natural History in New York, ‘Abdu’l-Baha talks to an elderly man about the life beyond.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson July 9,The Master and the museum watchman
Why had the Master visited a Museum of Natural History in the hottest hour of a blistering July day? Had He instead visited a soul whose need was crying out to Him, to open an old man’s eyes so that he might see to climb the stairs, to take away the dread of death?
Mahmud’s Diary: July 9, Article by Mirza Abu’l-Fadl answering criticisms of an enemy of the Faith
July 8, 1912
Day 89: July 8, 1912: The Week 239 Days in America article
As New York tries to beat an epic heat wave, we take a look at the week ahead.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 8, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá walks every day in the park near His house
Baha’i World 1934-1936 Impressions of ‘Abdu’l-Baha by Mrs. Louise R. Waite ‘ABDU’L-BAHA is of medium height, but He holds Himself so superbly, with such commanding dignity, and carries His head so high and with such an air of majesty, that He ever gives the impression of great height. His voice is full and vibrant, each word uttered with marked distinctness and with that tonal quality which leaves a faint echo, as it were, or wave vibrations such as come from a beautifully toned bell. All through the day it rings out, first in one place, and then in another; for with astonishing rapidity ‘ABDU’L-BAHA seems to be everywhere — now in the garden, now in the room close beside the entrance, now in a guest’s room — or you may hear Him calling someone in the “family section” of the “prison home.” Always when I heard His voice, I felt its vibrations most deeply. Like His face, His voice expresses every emotion, from tones that are stern and emphatic to those as tender and loving as the cooing of a dove…
How I longed to go to Him and declare my love and faith in Him! Then I realized that it is not our love and faith in Him, but our love for one another, that is His crown of glory and the balm for His soul; for He had said to a pilgrim: “If you love one another, it is just the same as if you love Me. The closer you draw to one another, the closer you draw to Me. I will go away from this world, but love always stays. Therefore, you should love one another very much.”
July 7, 1912
Day 88: Who Is ‘Abdu’l-Baha? 239 Days in America article
Americans have a hard time trying to define ‘Abdu’l-Baha. What does he have to say?
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 7, If even a breath of egotism is found in us we shall perish The Blessed Beauty entered into this Covenant for obedience and not for opposition…We must obey the Blessed Beauty. We must never forget His favors and exhortations. If even a breath of egotism is found in us, we shall perish at once.
News Clips:
New York Sun July 7, New York ‘Abdu’l-Baha Gives His Impressions of New York – I am not interested in things that are merely beautiful to look at, but I am interested in the soul. I have nothing to do with mortar and clay. I wish to view an edifice that is never to be destroyed. But I am pleased with the people of America. They are noble people….May the hearts of men become as mirrors and may the light of truth shine on these mirrors…The most important thing is to polish the mirror of the heart so that it can reflect the sun.The centre of the light is the sun, and the centre of the sun is God. Therefore we must try to make love take possession of the heart so that all humanity of the East and of the West may be one, fore we are all recipients of the bounty of the sun.
July 6, 1912
Day 87: ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s Impressions of New York 239 Days in America article
A reporter for the New York Sun discovers that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has no interest in being a tourist.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 6, Much of the time was spent listening to a translation of a long article that appeared in today’s issue of The Sun concerning ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talk at a church…In his article, he emphasized the force of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s reasoning in establishing the truth of all of the Manifestations of God, and in particular of Islam and this mighty Cause.
News Clips:
Fond du Lac Wis Reporter July 6, 1912 Fond du Lac, WI America Foremost Champion of Universal Brotherhood of Man – PEACE IS LIGHT; WAR IS DARKNESS. PEACE IS LIFE; WAR IS DEATH. PEACE IS GUIDENCE; WAR IS MISGUIDENCE. PEACE IS FOUNDED ON GOOD; WAR IS SATANIC INSTITUTE. PEACE IS CONDUCIVE TO ILLUMINATION; WAR IS DESTRUCTIVE OF LIGHT. PEACE AND AMITY ARE FACTORS OF EXISTENCE; WAR IS DECOMPOSITION, OR LACK OF EXISTENCE.
PUP: July 6, 1912 Talk at 309 West Seventy-eighth Street, New York Man – Created for Spirituality, Heavenly Illumination & Eternal Life …the indispensable forces of the divine existence must be potentially attained in this world…What is he in need of in the Kingdom which transcends the life and limitation of this mortal sphere? That world beyond is a world of sanctity and radiance; therefore, it is necessary that in this world he should acquire these divine attributes. In that world there is need of spirituality, faith, assurance, the knowledge and love of God. These he must attain in this world so that after his ascension from the earthly to the heavenly Kingdom he shall find all that is needful in that eternal life ready for him. That divine world is manifestly a world of lights; therefore, man has need of illumination here. That is a world of love; the love of God is essential. It is a world of perfections; virtues, or perfections, must be acquired. That world is vivified by the breaths of the Holy Spirit; in this world we must seek them. That is the Kingdom of everlasting life; it must be attained during this vanishing existence.By what means can man acquire these things? How shall he obtain these merciful gifts and powers? First, through the knowledge of God. Second, through the love of God. Third, through faith. Fourth, through philanthropic deeds. Fifth, through self-sacrifice. Sixth, through severance from this world. Seventh, through sanctity and holiness.
Foundations of World Unity: July 6, 1912 The Microcosm and the Macrocosm Therefore, God has no beginning and no ending; nor is His creation limited ever as to degree. Limitations of time and degree pertain to things created, never to the creation as a whole. They pertain to the forms of things, not to their realities. The effulgence of God cannot be suspended. The sovereignty of God cannot be interrupted. As long as the sovereignty of God is immemorial, therefore the creation of our world throughout infinity is presupposed. When we look at the reality of this subject, we see that the bounties of God are infinite, without beginning and without end. The greatest bounties of God in this phenomenal world are His Manifestations. This is the greatest postulate. These Manifestations are the Suns of Reality. For it is through the Manifestation that the reality becomes known and established for man. History proves to us that apart from the influence of the Manifestations, man sinks back into his animal condition…
July 5, 1912
Day 86: The Lesson of the Titanic 239 Days in America article
For both United States Senator Isidor Rayner and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the lesson of the Titanic is primarily spiritual.
See also PUP April 23: The Titanic Disaster: Everything is Due to Some Wisdom I was greatly affected by this disaster. Some of those who were lost voyaged on the Cedric with us as far as Naples and afterward sailed upon the other ship. When I think of them, I am very sad indeed…it is our duty to remember these departed souls in our prayers and supplications that they may draw nearer and nearer to the Source itself.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 5, Revealing Tablets for believers in California…Today, at the invitation of Juliet Thompson, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá went to a museum near His house. On the first floor there were statues, figures of animals and a collection of relics of early American civilization. On observing these objects, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said, ‘From these things it appears that America had a great civilization in ancient times.’
News Clips:
The Van Nuys News July 5, 1912 Van Nuys, CA Leader of Bahá’ísm Is Here the days of religious persecution are not ended, and that even in this modern age a drama has been enacted which for human interest equals or surpasses Biblical history.
New Castle News July 5, 1912 New Castle Persian Prophet To Remain in U. S. …His new sect, which embraces many of the best things in all the religions, has gained many American converts.
PUP: July 5, 1912 Talk at 309 West Seventy-eighth Street, New York The Universe Hath Neither Beginning Nor Ending Briefly, there were many universal cycles preceding this one in which we are living. They were consummated, completed and their traces obliterated. The divine and creative purpose in them was the evolution of spiritual man, just as it is in this cycle. The circle of existence is the same circle; it returns. The tree of life has ever borne the same heavenly fruit.
PUP: July 5, 1912 Talk at 309 West Seventy-eighth Street, New York Religious Faith and Belief is a Remnant of Blind Imitations In brief, all the Holy Books contain these glad tidings. They announce that after the world is surrounded by darkness, radiance shall appear. For just as the night, when it becomes excessively dark, precedes the dawn of a new day, so likewise when the darkness of religious apathy and heedlessness overtakes the world, when human souls become negligent of God, when materialistic ideas overshadow spirituality, when nations become submerged in the world of matter and forget God — at such a time as this shall the divine Sun shine forth and the radiant morn appear.
July 4, 1912
Day 85: Happy Fourth of July! 239 Days in America article
Abdu’l–Baha and his entourage are invited to participate in New York’s Fourth of July parade.
Diary Entries:
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 4
‘Abdu’l-Bahá showers Juliet’s mother with kindness on her birthday
The Diary of Juliet Thompson: July 4 Courage by Persian believers facing tests
Mahmud’s Diary: July 4 Revealing Tablets for the believers in the East
Mahmud’s Diary: July 4 ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s entourage were guests of the mayor for the 4th of July celebrations
One Spirit: The Baha’i Unity Feast by Hussein Ahdieh at BahaiTeachings.org
On June 29, we read about a Unity Feast ‘Abdu’l-Baha held in New Jersey. What did Abdu’l-Baha have in mind as the underlying purpose and nature of the Unity Feast? ‘Abdu’l-Baha words describe the Unity Feast as a “prototype” of a collective state of being beyond the material world. what does the word “prototype” mean in the context of the external world? This article ponders on these questions.
July 3, 1912
Day 84: Woodrow Wilson: The Man Who Would Be… 239 Days in America article
After five days of deadlock, the Democratic National Convention selects Woodrow Wilson as its presidential candidate.
See also: Woodrow Wilson: Racist or Peacemaker? by Rodney Richards | JAN 8, 2016 PART 1 IN SERIES 14 POINTS FOR WORLD PEACE at BahaiTeachings.org
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 3, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave Eastern names to two black visitors
Mahmud’s Diary: July 3, “… the whole of creation is interrelated like the different parts of the human body…”
Mahmud’s Diary: July 3, The connection of soul to the body
News Clips:
Wichita Daily Times July 3, 1912Wichita Falls, TX America’s Foremost Champion of Universal Brotherhood of Man
The Agitator Wellsboro Pennsylvania July 3, 1912 Wellsboro, PA ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Make his Home in Montclair
July 2, 1912
Day 83: The Memoirs of an American Painter 239 Days in America article
A portrait of New York painter, Juliet Thompson, and her connection with ‘Abdu’l-Baha.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 2, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá avoided sightseeing excursions
News Clips:
Columbus Ohio Journal July 2, 1912 Universal Religion
Cedar Rapids Ia. Republican July 2, 1912 Persian Prophet to Remain in U. S.
The Janesville Daily Gazette July 2, 1912 Persian Prophet To Remain in U. S.
July 1, 1912
Day 82: July 1, 1912 – The Week Ahead 239 Days in America article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá returns to New York, we take a look at the week ahead.
President Teddy Roosevelt and the Baha’i Faith by Christopher Buck
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: July 1, Seekers in public meetings were invited to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá home
News Clips:
The Evening Observer July 1, 1912 Persian Prophet To Remain in U. S.
Fort Wayne News July 1, 1912 Fort Wayne Persian Prophet To Remain in U. S.
PUP: July 1, 1912 Talk at 309 West Seventy-eighth Street, New York No Deed of Man is Greater Before God than Helping the Poor
PUP: July 1, 1912 Talk at 309 West Seventy-eighth Street, New York You Must Have Infinite Love for Each Other