September 30, 1912
Day 173: September 30, 1912: The Week Ahead 239 Days article
While ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spends the day in Salt Lake City, we take a look at the week ahead.
Diary Entries: St. Lake City, UT
Mahmud’s Diary: “The law of God is the panacea for all ills because it is in accordance with the needs of the realities of creation.” But the divine Manifestation asserted that to institute such laws is beyond human capacity, for human intelligence cannot encompass the realities of things, nor can it comprehend the essential relationships of such realities. Therefore, divine law is necessary, as it embraces the realities and penetrates all things.
Mahmud’s Diary: How Peter devoid of all schooling became “the cause of the enlightenment of the world.”
Mahmud’s Diary: An example of a true believer being “humble before the servants of the Threshold of God”
Mahmud’s Diary: September 30, 1912 St. Lake City, UT Leaving Salt Lake City for San Francisco Today the Master was in the best of health and happiness. In spite of all the hardships of the long journey, He was as charmingly fresh as a flower. With unmitigated joy He mentioned the Blessed Beauty, Bahá’u’lláh….
News Clips
The Evening Standard, Salt Lake, UT ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Abbas Comes to Lecture on Bahá’í Religion
Black Baha’is at the time of ‘Abdu’l-Baha
A New Sociology of Race for America THE WISDOM OF LOUIS GREGORY FIGHTER FOR RACIAL JUSTICE Janet Ruhe-Schoen | SEP 28, 2020 PART 2 IN SERIES at BahaiTeachings.org
September 29, 1912
Day 172: “The Supreme Psychiatrist” 239 Days article
Feny Paulson, from Missoula, Montana, endures a series of mishaps to spend two days with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Salt Lake City.
Diary Entries: St. Lake City, UT
Mahmud’s Diary: Bahá’u’lláh organized a divine convention in Persia Great persons have come to the congress but their motive is earthly as they have assembled to consider questions concerning agriculture. But in that other congress holy ones have gathered who irrigate the field of hearts with the water of eternal life, as their motive is heavenly.
Mahmud’s Diary: Many pleaded with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to prolong His stay in Salt Lake City … As He was returning to the hotel, the Master saw a Cardinal walking proudly with people on his way to dedicate a church. This Cardinal had heard about the Master and had spoken about the false Christ, thus he was often mentioned by the Master in His meetings.
Mahmud’s Diary: Visiting the agricultural exhibition The section manager saw the Master among the visitors and came towards us and the interpreter, asking to be introduced to Him. He accompanied the Master, offering Him samples of many fruits (even though the purchase, sale and consumption of these items was strictly prohibited). He described to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the various methods of agriculture and then concluded the tour at the grain and mineral display. The Master told us to purchase seeds of some of the fruits and flowers so they could be sent to the Holy Land to be planted at the Most Holy Shrine.
News Clips
SFO San Francisco, CA Persian Teacher Coming Here to Preach Bahá’ísm ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Abbas, Missionary of Universal Love and Peace, to Speak in Churches — “The news of the battle of Benghazi grieves my heart. I wonder at the human savagery that still exists in the world. How is it possible for men to fight from morning until evening, killing each other, shedding the blood of their fellow men? And for what object! To gain possession of a part of the earth.”…“As religion inculcates morality, it is therefore the truest philosophy, and on it is built the only lasting civilization.”… In discussing ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s teachings yesterday, Mrs. Ella Goodal Cooper, said: “He does not come proselytizing for any particular cult. He is preaching the doctrine of universal love, universal peace, the oneness of God and humanity. The adherents of any religions or the members of any denomination of any church can be a Bahá’í.[unreadable text] ‘Abdu’l-Bahá exhorts them to be better men and women, and act more[unreadable text] conformably to their faith, no matter what it may be. His is a doctrine of love, of kindness.”
September 28, 1912
Day 171: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Crosses the Continental Divide 239 Days article
En route to California, the Rocky Mountains force ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to take the long way around.
Diary Entries: St. Lake City, UT
Mahmud’s Diary: “This trip fills us with wonder! Offer thanks to the Blessed Beauty …” it is no light matter. It is easy to say these things but it was unimaginable that they would let us into these churches. See how His aid and favor descend upon us.
Mahmud’s Diary: Arriving in Salt Lake City The Master decided to stay in the city for one night. By chance, even as the city was being blessed by His footsteps, a large national agricultural convention was being held and the entire city was festively decorated.
A Reflection on The Prayer for America
Creating Reality Through Prayer With Bahiyyih Nakhjavani This prayer was revealed by ‘Abdu’l=Baha during His journey across America.
September 27, 1912
Day 170: A Forbidden Marriage 239 Days article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá leaves Denver for Salt Lake City, a much-anticipated marriage takes place in New York.
Diary Entries: Glenwood Springs, CO
Mahmud’s Diary: Abdu’l-Bahá has a little respite at hot spring baths Today I am relieved of fatigue. We have been to many lovely places during this journey but because of our work we had no time to look at the scenery. We did not even think of a moment’s rest. Today, however, we have had a little respite.
Mahmud’s Diary: Remembering Bahá’u’lláh’s imprisonment How such scenes were loved by Him! Once He said that He had not seen greenery for several years.’
Mahmud’s Diary: News of Thornton Chase being seriously ill
Mahmud’s Diary: Reception by hotel manager
The first Inter-racial Baha’i Marriage More details on how ‘Abdu’l-Baha encouraged the marriage of Louis Gregory and Louisa Matthews
The Marriage of Louis and Louisa Gregory In God Passes By, the Guardian cites this marriage as one of the acts ‘Abdu’l-Bahá undertook while on this hemisphere that defined the significance of His trip: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá frequently urged inter-racial marriage. Bringing the Gregorys together in marriage is considered in Baha’i history as an “exemplary act” of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and one of the most significant of the acts He carried out during His time in the United States.
Two more additions to this story
On board of the SS Cedric ‘Abdu’l-bahá handed a white flower to Louisa Mathews, while telling her: “I’ve planted a seed in your heart” and asking her to give the flower to George Louis Gregory. He encouraged her to marry him and Louisa by that time could barely imagine getting married to him because she saw him as a friend but she explains that from that day onwards, suddenly her love and admiration for Louis grew so much that she was dying to get married to him!
A Seed in Your Heart Louise and Louis enjoyed a loving partnership and marriage and that they only travelled separately on different continents because she couldn’t travel with him. She constantly longed for him to be able to travel with her in Europe and their happiest times were spent together whenever they were somewhere they could call home. A Seed in Your Heart: A New Book About Louise Mathew Gregory at BahaiBlog.net
September 26, 1912
Day 169: Drinking Tea with “The Girl from Kansas” 239 Days article
Reporter Alice Rohe has tea with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at the Shirley Hotel in Denver, and calls him a “Pioneer of Equal Suffrage.”
Diary Entries: Denver, CO
Mahmud’s Diary: Concerning eating meat But man’s food is not meat for he has not been created with means to eat flesh. God has given him beauty of form and has created him blessed and not rapacious and bloodthirsty.
Mahmud’s Diary: “The best person is he who wins all hearts and is not the cause of grief to anyone.” …Always endeavor to make people happy and their hearts joyful so that you may become the cause of guidance to mankind. Proclaim the Word of God and diffuse the divine fragrances.
Mahmud’s Diary: Leaving Denver — a seventeen-hour train ride to Glenwood Springs Some of the articles from the newspapers were translated for Him. Among them was the translation of these words: The contingent world is like the human body that has grown from the embryonic state and reached maturity and perfection. It may be said that the development of the human being from the beginning of life to the age of maturity is but a preparation for the appearance of the power of reason. This is the age of maturity and the time of the manifestation of the Most Great Intellect and the Most Ancient Bounty so that divine and material civilizations may be joined and the perfection of the human world may dawn.
Around midnight ‘Abdu’l-Bahá became fatigued owing to the speed and motion of the train. We proposed that because California was still some distance away, if He would consent, it might be a good idea to stop for two or three days. At 2:00 a.m. the train reached Glenwood Springs, beautifully situated near many hot springs. We stayed at the Hotel Colorado, which is a fine hotel overlooking the river, nestled among green parks and wooded mountains.
News Clips
The Princeton (Minn) Union America is in Need of the Breath of the Holy Spirit
Denver Colorado Republican Persian Prophet Pleads for Union of All Religions ‘ABDU’L-BAHA ASSERTS ALL FAITHS IN WORLD POINT TO BUT ONE SUPREME BEING. The only good in this world, according to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, is happiness. The greater amount each of us brings to those around us, the greater will be our reward in the world to come.
Rocky Mountain News ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Speaks at Science Church ‘ABDU’L-BAHA ASSERTS ALL FAITHS IN WORLD POINT TO BUT ONE SUPREME BEING.
Newspaper article by Alice Rohe mentioned in the 239 Days article
New John the Baptist Preaching Universal Brotherhood:
Abdul Ba-ha Patriarchal Head of Bahá’ísts in Denver With Message of Love and Justice to All and for All by Alice Rohe published in The Daily News Denver, CO: 1912-09-25 – Bahaism is not a cult it is not a doctrine—it is a message a desire to blend all religions to smooth away the rough edges of differences that creak. Abdul Baha has spoken in the big churches of New York city he has ad-dressed the men of the Bower mission he has talked before the Theosophical society in Chicago he will talk in the Divine Science church in Denver. Indeed he is a man of all religions seeing good in all who worship “God. He is a Christian in that believes in the teachings of Christ. Christ to the Bahaist is a manifestation of the divine spirit. This spirit manifests itself from time to time. Ba-ha’o’llah is the last manifestation…The remarkable thing about the Bahaist movement is that the teachings are altruist-Abdul Ba-Ha receives nothing—he gives always. He does not believe in a paid priesthood and his social and economic doctrine is that no human being should look to others for his maintenance.
September 25, 1912
Day 168:“The World is a School” 239 Days article
At Denver’s Divine Science Church, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá chooses a metaphor to explain the changing relationship between humanity…
Diary Entries: Denver, CO
Mahmud’s Diary: People were fascinated with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and considered an interview with Him a source of pride and glory
Mahmud’s Diary: “A person must first be happy and attracted himself to be in a position to transform others.”
Mahmud’s Diary: Through the use of his spiritual powers man “must take flight from the cage of the body and become pure spirit…”
Mahmud’s Diary: Everyone was fascinated by the majesty and grandeur of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and gave their hearts to Him
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá describes features of His city whose Founder is Bahá’u’lláh To one who visited Him at the hotel, He remarked: I have come to your city and found tall buildings and advancement in material civilization. Now I will lead you to my own city which is the world above. Its administration is the oneness of humanity, its law is international peace, its palaces are ever shining with the lights of the Kingdom, its season is always spring, its trees are ever green, its fruits are fresh and sweet, its sun is ever ascending, its moon is always full, its stars are ever brilliant and its planets are ever circling. That is our city and the Founder is Bahá’u’lláh. We have enjoyed the pleasures of this city and now I invite you to that city. I hope that you will accept this invitation.
News Clips
The Daily News Denver Colorado Message of Universal Religion Brought by Persian M [text missing] ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Abbas Effendi — “The Servant of God” — a venerable old man, son of a Persian noble man, and the prophet of universal brotherhood and love, is in Denver, spreading the doctrine of the Bahá’ís… his wrinkled face beaming with kindness and charity…Perhaps it is not a new creed, for it teaches what men have long felt — that at the bottom of every religion there lies a foundation which is the same — but so enthusiastic is the venerable patriarch that the truths falling from his lips have a ring which is strange…taking care that you do not think him placing himself above you. He wants everyone to think of him as a brother…Faithful to his doctrine that deeds and not words comprise the real service of God, he greets everyone with the utmost kindness…as you enter his room he greets you with a smile and rises to shake hands…he asks the health of his visitor and if he is happy. On receiving an affirmative answer his face gleams with gladness — and no one ever has the heart to tell this old man that he is not happy…Since he was a lad 9 years of age ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has been a prisoner of the Turkish government, persecuted but never relaxing in his zeal, winning his guards to him by his gentleness, that he might spread his doctrine of love outside the walls of his prison… America is a good country…But it is in need of the influence of Divine civilization…If equal education is granted to women…they will be able to serve international peace extraordinarily. (excellent article)
San Francisco California Examiner 40 Years in Jail Brings Wisdom ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Urges World Peace – Famous Oriental Philosopher Will Visit San Francisco to Spread Doctrine. (gives some history of Faith) He went to Egypt and Europe and was received with open arms by the wise men of the west, who allowed him to preach and teach after his own manner. His mission has lasted in the open world for four years. He has now fifteen million followers known as Bahá’ís. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá speaks with the tongue of prophecy, though he resents being called a prophet, since he claims that what he has to say is of what there is and not what there shall be. He is a philosopher of wisdom gained not from books but from a life of solitude, during which his only literature has been the Bible, and his father’s works. But ‘Abdul is a scholar of amazing culture. He speaks like a fountain of wisdom. He has the insight of Omar Khayyah, combined with the optimism of the Christian belief. He offers something more than a worldly hope men set their hearts upon. He offers a reality of life that comes only through peace of mind. (another excellent article)
Denver Colorado Daily News ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (photo of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Persian — prophet and apostle of the Bahá’u’lláh religion and his retinue) “When the ocean of My Presence hath disappeared and the Book of Origin is achieved to the end, turn your faces toward Him Whom God Hath Purposed, who hath branched from this Pre-Existent Root” — Words of BAHA’O’LLAH.
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: September 25, 1912 Talk at Second Divine Science Church 3929 West Thirty-eighth Avenue, Denver, Colorado Love is the First Effulgence of Divinity One of the forms of prejudice which afflict the world of mankind is religious bigotry and fanaticism. When this hatred burns in human hearts, it becomes the cause of revolution, destruction, abasement of humankind and deprivation of the mercy of God…The supreme need of humanity is cooperation and reciprocity. The stronger the ties of fellowship and solidarity amongst men, the greater will be the power of constructiveness and accomplishment in all the planes of human activity… it is evident that God has destined and intended religion to be the cause and means of cooperative effort and accomplishment among mankind. To this end He has sent the Prophets of God, the holy Manifestations of the Word, in order that the fundamental reality and religion of God may prove to be the bond of human unity, for the divine religions revealed by these holy Messengers have one and the same foundation… The purpose of all the divine religions is the establishment of the bonds of love and fellowship among men, and the heavenly phenomena of the revealed Word of God are intended to be a source of knowledge and illumination to humanity…The proof of the validity of a Manifestation of God is the penetration and potency of His Word, the cultivation of heavenly attributes in the hearts and lives of His followers and the bestowal of divine education upon the world of humanity…My highest hope and desire is that the strongest and most indissoluble bond shall be established between the American nation and the people of the Orient…my supreme desire is the unity of the East and West, universal peace and the oneness of the world of humanity.
September 24, 1912
Day 167: The World Is Thinking of War 239 Days article
On the eve of the First Balkan War, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells a group in Denver to dedicate themselves to “the worthy service of unifying…
He invoked the words of Jesus that “Many are called but few are chosen,” then proceeded to define the nature of being “chosen” not as a position that conferred superior status, but rather as a calling to sacrifice and service. “God has chosen you for the progress and development of humanity,” he said, “for the expression of love toward your fellow creatures and the removal of prejudice; God has chosen you to blend together human hearts and give light to the human world.” In short, he told them, be “occupied with service to all mankind.”
Diary Entries: Denver, CO
Mahmud’s Diary: Many came to see the Master from all walks of life Friends, seekers, professors, clergymen and philosophers all came to see Him. They each raised questions and were filled with joy on hearing the Master’s words.
Mahmud’s Diary: “… a heavenly act, a performance of the Kingdom, a wonderful pageant”
Mahmud’s Diary: September 24, 1912 Denver, CO The power and influence of the Word of God He spoke to them about the confirmations of the Abha Beauty and the power and influence of the Word of God. ‘See how He has made the Easterner and the Westerner friends’…Otherwise, what connection would there be between us and Americans, between this Japanese youth and Mirza Mahmud-i-Zarqani?
Mahmud’s Diary: “A man must never consider himself greater than others.”
Mahmud’s Diary: Responding to a question: ‘What shall I do to become a true servant?’ Act in accordance with the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh. Do not only read His teachings but put into practice in your lives the Hidden Words and the other holy writings…I have brought the message of Bahá’u’lláh to this country in order to teach people to investigate truth, to render service to humanity, to endeavor to bring about international peace, to exert every effort to guide humanity, to show kindness to all creatures and to raise the Call of the Kingdom.
Mahmud’s Diary: September 24, 1912 Denver, CO Telepathy or communication from mind to mind
Mahmud’s Diary: September 24, 1912 Denver, CO An automobile for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s use Behold the power and confirmation of the Blessed Beauty: The pastor comes in person with all humility to invite us and the proprietor of a leading journal sends his automobile for our use, so that we may raise the call of God in the church. Truly, such confirmations have never been seen in other dispensations and in no age have the Manifestations of the Cause of God met with such reverence and honor. But these things should be the cause of humility and self-effacement. We must not consider that they are due to our addresses or our eloquence. These shining lights which you see will instantly darken if the origin of their bounty is severed from them.
Mahmud’s Diary: September 24, 1912 Denver, CO Concerns about the Master’s health As the Master left the church He was perspiring so much that His companions were concerned about His health and tried to keep Him warm with His ‘aba, shawl and blanket.
News Clips
The Evening Post, San Francisco, CA ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Leader of World Religion Coming [picture caption: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, son of Bahá’u’lláh, founder of Bahá’í movement.] Persian Spent Forty Years in Prison Propagating His Faith.
The Bahá’í movement, or “Religion of Bahá,” proclaims a universal religion intended to unite the varying beliefs of Christian denominations, the Jewish religion. Buddhism and every known faith. Its leader takes the stand that the essence of all true religion is identical.
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at Home of Mrs. Sidney E. Roberts Denver, Colorado Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen Verily, God has chosen you for His love and knowledge; God has chosen you for the worthy service of unifying mankind; God has chosen you for the purpose of investigating reality and promulgating international peace; God has chosen you for the progress and development of humanity, for spreading and proclaiming true education, for the expression of love toward your fellow creatures and the removal of prejudice; God has chosen you to blend together human hearts and give light to the human world. The doors of His generosity are wide, wide open to us; but we must be attentive, alert and mindful, occupied with service to all mankind, appreciating the bestowals of God and ever conforming to His will…Although it is necessary for man to strive for material needs and comforts, his real need is the acquisition of the bounties of God. If he is bereft of divine bounties, spiritual susceptibilities and heavenly glad tidings, the life of man in this world has not yielded any worthy fruit…If no fruits of the Kingdom appear in the garden of his soul, man is not in the image and likeness of God, but if those fruits are forthcoming, he becomes the recipient of ideal bestowals and is enkindled with the fire of the love of God…A man may be a Bahá’í in name only. If he is a Bahá’í in reality, his deeds and actions will be decisive proofs of it. What are the requirements? Love for mankind, sincerity toward all, reflecting the oneness of the world of humanity, philanthropy, becoming enkindled with the fire of the love of God, attainment to the knowledge of God and that which is conducive to human welfare…Therefore, to you my first admonition is this: Associate most kindly with all; be as one family; pursue this same pathway. Let your intentions be one that your love may permeate and affect the hearts of others so that they may grow to love each other and all attain to this condition of oneness…The first sign of faith is love. The message of the holy, divine Manifestations is love; the phenomena of creation are based upon love; the radiance of the world is due to love; the well-being and happiness of the world depend upon it. Therefore, I admonish you that you must strive throughout the human world to diffuse the light of love.
September 23, 1912
Day 166: September 23, 1912: The Week Ahead 239 Days article
As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spends the day in Lincoln, Nebraska, we take a look at the week ahead.
Diary Entries: Denver, CO
Mahmud’s Diary: Arriving in Denver, resting for a few hours and meeting with reporters, friends and seekers
Mahmud’s Diary: Concerning ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s health during His Travels
Mahmud’s Diary: A prophecy in Islam that “cities shall draw nearer to each other”
News Clips
The Lincoln Nebraska Daily Star September 23, 1912 Lincoln, NE Persian Peace Advocate Pays Visit to Lincoln ‘Abdul-Bahá1 Abbas, Persian exponent of the doctrine of international peace and son of Bahá’u’lláh, who paid with his life for doctrines advanced in his native country, arrived in Lincoln this morning accompanied by his interpreter and four other traveling companions. Arriving in Lincoln at 9 o’clock, the party remaining only a few hours and took advantage of the time to call upon the
family of W.J. Bryan, whom ‘Abdul-Bahá met while the latter was touring the world.(long article)
Minneapolis Tribune Temple Shaari Tov “Moses and the Mission of Jesus Christ.” — ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
“But now listen to this fairly. Until the appearance of Jesus Christ, the name of Moses was confined to Palestine, and up to that time the Old Testament, The Torah, was only to be found in the Hebrew tongue. It was His Holiness Christ, who was instrumental in having the Old Testament translated into 700 languages. Even if you go to the regions of Central Africa, you will find the Old Testament in their vernacular tongues. “Who has done this? No doubt, Christ has done this. But the Israelites did not know this.
The Lincoln Nebraska Daily Star Abbas Brings New Creed to Lincoln “All people belong to one nativity,” declared ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. “For the earth’s sphere is one, and all humanity is the progenity of one. We are all submerged in the sea of the mercy of one God.” Prejudices Destroyed. “According to the teaching of Baháoallah [Bahá’u’lláh], racial prejudices, political and patriotic prejudices are destroying the foundations of humanity. So long as the world is not free from these prejudices; construction progress and peace is impossible, and the human world will not be composed and secure. Among the teachings of Baháoallah [Bahá’u’lláh] is the fact that the fundamental principles of everything is one. This foundation of the world is one reality and this reality is neither multipliable or divisable. Where the difference in religions is found is in the dogma, hence the difference causes enmity among religions.
India and Israel will commemorate the decisive Battle of Haifa
Battle of Haifa recounts the last cavalry engagement On September 23, 2021, India and Israel will commemorate the decisive Battle of Haifa, which was fought in the final of World War One (on September 23, 1918). This campaign took on urgency as Abdul Baha, the Head of the Baha’i Faith, had been in Haifa, giving aid and support to the poor. The Ottoman authorities accused him of supporting the Allies and sentenced him to death by the local Pasha. The All Indian Calvary Brigade was requested to liberate Haifa, as well as rescue Abdul Baha. They did not have reinforcements because they were the only Allied Forces in the immediate vicinity. (paintings depicting the battle) at Indian Newslink
Historic Battle of Haifa commemorated in New Delhi at Baha’i World News Service According to a historical account by Hasan Balyuzi, after the battle, Indian army soldiers were sent to the gates of the house of ‘Abdu’l-Baha. He “was sitting calm and unperturbed in the forecourt of his house.”
Jodhpur Lancers’ “Haifa Day” commemorated at Baha’i House of Worship in India Baha’i World News Service
September 22, 1912
Day 165: ‘150 Years of the Emancipation 239 Days article
On the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation we look at the implications of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s bold position on race.
Diary Entries: Lincoln, NE
Mahmud’s Diary: Wishing to visit Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Mr. Bryan was not at home. (William Jennings Bryn who later became the forty-first Secretary of State of the United States) Mrs.Bryan and her daughter begged Him to visit some of the rooms of the house, particularly the library and Mr. Bryan’s study. They showed Him a book compiled by Mr. Bryan and asked Him to pray for the success of his endeavors. Mr. Bryan was currently on a campaign tour on behalf of [the future] President Wilson and was to lecture in many cities. In honor of the occasion, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá took a notebook and in His own hand wrote a prayer for assistance. He then said a few words which increased their happiness, devotion, assurance and honor.
Mahmud’s Diary: Results of a twelve–hour stay in a city Some Arabs came to visit Him at the hotel as they had read about his arrival and speeches in the newspaper. Other who had read about the new teachings in the newspaper approached him in the lobby of the hotel and listened carefully to His explanations. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was happy that a stay in the city of only 12 hours had become the cause of spreading the teachings of God.
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá leaves Lincoln at 11:00 PM in the coach-seats section of the train
News Clips
Rocky Mountain News, New York, NY ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Coming Persian Prophet Teaches New Faith Forty Years in Prison, Freed by Young Turks; Millions Follow Him. – Travels in Regal Fashion, Rich Entertain Him; Speaks at Divine Science Church. From the land of Mohammed, from the country of the fire-worshippers, within the length of a gun shot of Nazareth, where the greatest spiritual Leader of the world was born, comes a great Persian prophet and teacher bearing the torch of a new faith, a universal religion, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, a direct descendant, so he claims, of Abraham, who, in the national costume of his fathers, has addressed all sorts and conditions of Americans since coming to this country. He represents the Bahia movement, whose followers are found all over the civilized world…‘Abdu’l-Bahá, whose believers in this city number about 200 will visit Denver Tuesday or Wednesday of next week…he was asked to speak a Columbia university and then addressed a crowd on the Bowery. In the latter section of New York he distributed $200 among the needy.
Early Black Baha’is
The “Lincoln of the Spirit” and the “Black Plato” Alain Locke speaks on Emancipation CHRISTOPHER BUCK | FEB 21, 2014 PART 9 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
September 21, 1912
Day 164: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Calls On the “Great Commoner” 239 Days article
In Lincoln, Nebraska, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visits Mrs. William Jennings Bryan as her husband fires up 25,000 at a rally in Los Angeles.
Diary Entries: Omaha, NE
Mahmud’s Diary: “All future events are evident and visible to the eyes of the holy Manifestations.”
Mahmud’s Diary: Arriving in Lincoln at 3:00 AM
Mahmud’s Diary: Prophecies of holy books were fulfilled through Bahá’u’lláh’s banishment to Holy Land
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visited William Jennings Bryn who later became the forty-first Secretary of State of the United States
Mahmud’s Diary: The call of ‘Ya Bahá’u’l-Abha’ has been raised in every city of the continent of America where a number of believers reside
Mahmud’s Diary: The Hague Peace Assembly Later the Master was interviewed by two journalists and spoke to them about the pernicious attitudes of politicians, the destructiveness of war, the validity of the divine teachings regarding universal peace, the unity of religions and the oneness of mankind.
News Clips
The Appeal, St. Paul, MN Spoke at Woolson Home in St. Paul “Prophet of Glory” Visits Minneapolis
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at Home of Mr. Albert L. Hall 2030 Queen Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota The Spirit of Man Manifests Virtues that are Ideal
…If you should ask a thousand persons, “What are the proofs of the reality of Divinity?” perhaps not one would be able to answer. If you should ask further, “What proofs have you regarding the essence of God?” “How do you explain inspiration and revelation?” “What are the evidences of conscious intelligence beyond the material universe?” “Can you suggest a plan and method for the betterment of human moralities?” “Can you clearly define and differentiate the world of nature and the world of Divinity?” — you would receive very little real knowledge and enlightenment upon these questions. This is due to the fact that development of the ideal virtues has been neglected…
Ordinarily when the word Divinity is mentioned, it is associated in the minds of the hearers with certain formulas and doctrines, whereas it essentially means the wisdom and knowledge of God, the effulgence of the Sun of Truth, the revelation of reality and divine philosophy…But according to the evidence of present world conditions divine philosophy — which has for its object the sublimation of human nature, spiritual advancement, heavenly guidance for the development of the human race, attainment to the breaths of the Holy Spirit and knowledge of the verities of God — has been outdistanced and neglected…
The great question appertaining to humanity is religion. The first condition is that man must intelligently investigate its foundations. The second condition is that he must admit and acknowledge the oneness of the world of humanity. By this means the attainment of true fellowship among mankind is assured, and the alienation of races and individuals is prevented. All must be considered the servants of God; all must recognize God as the one kind Protector and Creator…If [Religion] becomes the cause of discord, enmity and hatred, it is better that man should be without it. For in its teachings we seek the spirit of charity and love to bind the hearts of men together. If, on the contrary, we find it alienates and embitters human hearts, we are justified in casting it aside…
September 20, 1912
Day 163: Thinking for Yourself 239 Days article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá challenges an audience in Minneapolis to apply their independent reason to pressing religious questions.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: Minneaplois, MN Consoling friends while leaving Minneapolis
Mahmud’s Diary: Minneapolis, MN “Put forth your efforts to acquire spiritual perfections and to spread the knowledge of God.”
Mahmud’s Diary: Omaha, NE Reaching Omaha at 2:00 AM
Mahmud’s Diary: Denver, CO The phenomenal effect of “one pure breath” drawn by a person in a “state of severance”
September 20, 1912 Denver, CO Advice of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to E.G. Browne
News Clips
Minneapolis Tribune Leader of the Bahá’í Religious Movement, With His Retinue, Visits Followers Here “Prophet of Glory” Visits Minneapolis – ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, White of Beard and Gentle of Mien, Greets Followers. – His Speech Is Arabic, His Walk Like That of Kim’s Llama. – He Preaches the Gospel of Universal Peace and Language. “Newspapers,” said the Bahá, must be the first means of amity and understanding amongst men. All men must be the servants of one God, all must be united. Newspapers must be the heralds of the oneness of humanity. Morality must be reinstated in the world.
The Minneapolis Morning Tribune “Prophet of Glory” Visits Minneapolis “The time has come for the world of humanity to hoist the standard of the oneness of the human world, so that unity may connect all the nations of the world, so that dogmatic formulas and superstition may end, so that essential reality underlying all the religions founded by all the prophets may be revealed.”
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at Home of Dr. and Mrs. Clement Woolson 870 Laurel Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota The Manifestations Adorn the Reality of Man with Divine Graces Similarly, the human spirit or reality of man, unless it becomes the recipient of the lights of the Kingdom, develops divine susceptibilities and consciously reflects the effulgence of God, will not be the manifestation of ideal bounties, for only the reality of man can become the mirror wherein the lights of God are revealed. The reality of man will then be as the spirit of this world, for just as the animus of life quickens the physical human body, so the body of the world will receive its vivification through the animating virtue of the sanctified spirit of man.
September 19, 1912
Day 162: Minneapolis, Flour Power, and the Ideal Virtues of… 239 Days article
In spite of Minnesota’s material success, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá points out that something is missing.
Diary Entries:
Mahmud’s Diary: St Paul, MN ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was driven about 15 miles to a meeting in St Paul
Mahmud’s Diary: St Paul, MN Which automobile should take the Master back to Minneapolis?
Mahmud’s Diary: St. Paul, MN ‘I love you first and then my father.’
Mahmud’s Diary: Minneapolis, MN Pleading with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to prolong His stay in Minneapolis
Mahmud’s Diary Minneapolis, MN How to make one’s “stars of happiness and prosperity … shine evermore from the horizon of both worlds”
Mahmud’s Diary September 19, 1912 Minneapolis, MN ‘Abdu’l-Bahá “… so wholly occupied with spreading the Cause of God in America …”
News Clips
Minneapolis Tribune “Servant of Glory” Comes to City From Far East ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “Servant of Glory,” head of the Bahá’í movement and one of the most distinguished religious figures of the Orient…
September 18, 1912 Minneapolis, MN ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Here Tonight Exponent of Brotherly Love to Be Dr. Woolson’s Guest.
Video: The Roots of the Race Amity Movement by the Baha’is of the United States July 7, 2021 It tells of the unique role ‘Abdu’l-Baha played in the Race Amity movement in America. ‘Abdu’l-Baha had given the task of creating the first Race Amity Convention to a Washington DC socialite, Mrs. Agnes Parsons. ‘Abdu’l-Baha sent a message to that convention: “Say to this convention that never since the beginning of time has one more important been held…”
September 18, 1912
Day 161: The Century of Motion 239 Days article
Abdu’l-Bahá boards a train at the busiest rail hub on the planet, in the midwestern heart of a nation in perpetual motion.
Diary Entries: Minneapolis, MN
Mahmud’s Diary: Speaking at Commercial Club Today a billboard outside a building announced: “‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the venerable Prophet of the East and the Leader of the Bahá’ís, will speak here at noon today.” The laws and commandments of God are of two kinds:…
Mahmud’s Diary: A Jewish rabbi visits ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and invites Him to speak at his synagogue Tonight when we speak in the Jewish synagogue we shall bring proofs and arguments in support of the Spirit [Christ]. … In the evening the Master delivered a brilliant address at the Jewish synagogue, providing decisive proofs of the validity and truth of Christ and the Cause of Muhammad. It was so persuasive that men and women came to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá with the utmost humility and admiration. One of them said openly that he would no longer be a Jew.
Mahmud’s Diary: Praising signs of a prosperous country and warning against materialism
News Clips
Minneapolis September 18, 1912 Minneapolis, MN Bahá’í Leader In Minneapolis Tells of Mission Time to Wipe Out Religious Surface Differences, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Says – TURBANED FOLLOWERS TRANSLATE MESSAGE – Leader Says America Is in Need of Breath of the Holy Spirit.
Minneapolis Tribune Persian Teacher a Visitor According to the word sent out by the noted Persian, to be a Bahá’í simply means to love all the world, to love humanity, and to try to serve it; to work for universal peace and the universal brotherhood
September 17, 1912
Day 160: Following the Example of America 239 Days article
The Independent, a national weekly newspaper, interviews ‘Abdu’l-Bahá about disarmament and the value of peace.
Diary Entries: Chicago & Minneapolis
Mahmud’s Diary: “A newspaper must in the first instance be the means of creating harmony among the people.”
Mahmud’s Diary: “The principles of socialism are outstripped in the religions of God.” In Persia the Bahá’ís were willing to sacrifice themselves for one another to such a degree that once when one of the Bahá’ís was a guest in the home of another believer, and the authorities demanded the arrest of the guest, the host gave the guest’s name as his own and surrendered himself to them, was martyred in his place, thus sacrificing his life for his guest and brother.
Mahmud’s Diary: The secret to maintaining one’s spiritual progress I beg of God that you may become more enlightened, more severed, more spiritual, more aflame and that you may be humble and submissive, for as long as man does not consider himself to be good but regards himself as weak and deficient, he progresses…
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá leaves Chicago Mirza ‘Ali-Akbar Nakhjavani, who had been granted permission to accompany ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on His journey to California, arrived from Malden, joining Mr. Fujita, the Japanese, and the other servants…
Mahmud’s Diary: Minneapolis Noticing ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in a state of reverie on the train
Mahmud’s Diary: Arriving in Minneapolis He told them that He was very tired and would see them the following morning to answer their questions and to give them material for their newspaper articles.
News Clips
Spokane Washington Daily Chronicle ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “Prophet of God,” Is Asked to Come to Spokane Rev. A.C. Crier, pastor of the local Universalist church of Divine Science, has offered his pulpit for use of the prophet should he decide to stop over here. “It would be one of the greatest events in the history of Spokane if ‘Abdu’l-Bahá would visit us here,” said A.C. Killius of 121 Fifth avenue, at whose home the Spokane Spiritual Bahá assembly, local organization of the Bahá’í movement, meets.
Mirza ‘Ali-Akbar Nakhjavani
In one of todays diary entries Mahmud tells us that Mirza ‘Ali-Akbar Nakhjavani arrived from Maldon, as he had been granted permission to accompany ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on His journey to California. He was the father to Ali Nakhjavani, whom many of us know served on the Universal House of Justice from 1963-2003. I discovered a wonderful interview Mr. Nakhjavani did with Sonjel Vreeland at Bahaiblog.net about the book he wrote on his illustrious father, Mirza Ali-Akbar-i-Nakhjavani: With Newly Translated Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha In this interview there is mention that his illustrious father who translated many Baha’i tablets and letters into Russian and at ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s request, corresponded with some of the leading literary figures of the time—including Leo Tolstoy* and Isabella Grinevskaya. This led me to another interesting article What Happens When Tolstoy Reviews Your Play at BahaiTeachings.org in which it tells of Isabella Grinevskaya’s play about the Bab which Leo Tolstoy read and reacted strongly.
* We spend our lives trying to unlock the mystery of the universe, but there was a Turkish prisoner, Baha’u’llah, in Akka, Palestine who had the key. – Leo Tolstoy
* AROUND 1909 Mirza ‘Ali-Akbar Nakhjavani intended to make contact with the great writer, Count Leo Tolstoy. Before doing so he consulted ‘Abdu’l-Bahá who sent him advice saying: “Always extend to Count Tolstoy loving and heartfelt greetings, and treat him with the utmost courtesy, as we are indeed commanded to behave in this way. Perchance he may become fairminded. There are signs that his attitude hath improved and moderated. It is hoped that, God willing, it may improve further and that he may speak with justice about this Cause. It might be beneficial if thou wert to despatch to him, and others like him, the letter of this servant addressed to the believers of the East and the West, which is translated and published in Russian.”
Tolstoy said he was very interested in the Bahá’í teachings and intended to “write a book about the Báb and the Bahá’í faith.” -Leo Tolstoy and the Bahá’í Faith, p. 49 (This account was taken from Centenary.Bahai.US)
September 16, 1912
Day 159: September 16, 1912: The Week Ahead 239 Days article
While ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spends the weekend in Kenosha, Wisconsin, we take a look at the week ahead.
Diary Entries: Chicago
Mahmud’s Diary: Returning to Chicago from Kenosha See what the power and influence of Bahá’u’lláh have wrought. Consider how He has brought the Japanese, the Americans and the Persians all under the shadow of one word and caused them to love one another.
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá concerned about the Faith after His passing In the automobile, He seemed to be depressed. He said: I am bearing the discomforts of this journey with stopovers so that the Cause of God may be protected from any breach. For I am still not sure about what is going to happen after me….
Mahmud’s Diary: Poems by Louise Waite (Shanaz Khanum) were sung to piano accompaniment for the Master
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá moves to a hotel in preparation to leave Chicago The Master spoke to the friends about the bonds of love which unite the hearts…In the evening He
exhorted the friends in sweet and expressive words to spread the fragrances of God, to proclaim the Words of their Lord and to show kindness to His friends.
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá declined offers of money from the friends instead requested that the money be distributed among the poor.
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at Home of Mrs. Corinne True 5338 Kenmore Avenue, Chicago, Il The Source of Perfect Unity is the Bond and Oneness of Reality
…I pray in your behalf, seeking heavenly confirmations for you that each one may become a radiant candle, shedding light in the world of humanity. May you become the quintessence of love. May you prove to be the effulgence of God, replete with the efficacy of the Holy Spirit and the cause of unity and fellowship in the world of humanity, for today mankind has the greatest need of love and agreement…
In the world of existence there are various bonds which unite human hearts, but not one of these bonds is completely effective…The source of perfect unity and love in the world of existence is the bond and oneness of reality…the bond or oneness of humanity cannot be effectively established save through the power of the Holy Spirit, for the world of humanity is a composite body, and the Holy Spirit is the animating principle of its life…
Therefore, we must strive in order that the power of the Holy Spirit may become effective throughout the world of mankind…that all may be guided to the protection and shelter of the Word of God…We must use our utmost endeavors in order that the Holy Spirit may influence minds and hearts toward peace, the bounties of God surround, the divine effulgences become successive, human souls advance, minds expand in wider vision, souls become more holy and the world of humanity be rid of its great menace…For the betterment of the world Bahá’u’lláh endured all the hardships, ordeals and vicissitudes of life, sacrificing His very being and comfort, forfeiting His estates, possessions and honor — all that pertains to human existence — not for one year, nay, rather, for nearly fifty years…He endured these ordeals and difficulties in order that this earthly human world might become heavenly, that the illumination of the divine Kingdom should become a reality in human hearts, that the individual members of mankind might progress, the power of the Holy Spirit increase its efficacy and penetration and the happiness of the world of humanity be assured…
Here ‘Abdu’l-Baha talks about the Covenant
Bahá’u’lláh desired that there should not be any ground or reason for disagreement among the Bahá’ís. Therefore, with His own pen He wrote the Book of His Covenant, addressing His relations and all people of the world, saying, “Verily, I have appointed One Who is the Center of My Covenant. All must obey Him; all must turn to Him; He is the Expounder of My Book, and He is informed of My purpose. All must turn to Him. Whatsoever He says is correct, for, verily, He knoweth the texts of My Book. Other than He, no one doth know My Book.”…
In His prayers Bahá’u’lláh also said, “O God! Whosoever violates My Covenant, O God, humiliate him. Verily, whosoever violates My Covenant, O God, erase and efface him.” In all His Tablets, among which is the Tablet of the Branch, He has mentioned and explained the attributes and qualities of the Personage to Whom He referred in the Book of His Covenant. He has fully expounded the function and potency of that Personage, so that no one shall say, “I understand this from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh,” for He has appointed the Center, or Expounder, of the Book. He said, “Verily, He is the appointed one; other than He, there is none,” intending that no sects or prejudices should be formed, and preventing every man here and there with a new thought from creating dissension and variance….
Therefore, you must read the Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh. You must read the Tablet of the Branch and regard that which He has so clearly stated. Beware! Beware! lest anyone should speak from the authority of his own thoughts or create a new thing out of himself. Beware! Beware! According to the explicit Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh you should care nothing at all for such a person. Bahá’u’lláh shuns such souls. I have expounded these things for you, for the conservation and protection of the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh…You must love all people, and yet if any souls put you in doubt, you must know that Bahá’u’lláh is severed from them. Whosoever works for unity and fellowship is a servant of Bahá’u’lláh, and Bahá’u’lláh is his assistant and helper. I ask God that He may cause you to be the very means of agreement and unity, that He may make you radiant, merciful, heavenly children of the divine Kingdom; that you may advance day by day; that you may become as bright as these lamps, bestowing light upon all humanity. Salutations and farewell!
September 15, 1912
Day 158: Documenting a “Luminous Journey” 239 Days article
Our producer interviews filmmaker Anne Perry about “Luminous Journey,” a documentary film about ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journey through…
Diary Entries: Chicago & Kenosha
Mahmud’s Diary: Experiencing the majesty and power of the Center of the Covenant
Mahmud’s Diary: Two examples of Bahá’u’lláh protecting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Mahmud’s Diary: Visiting friends in Kenosha, Wisconsin
Mahmud’s Diary: SIn each public event the believers in Kenosha left two seats vacant — for Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá He took the children onto His lap one by one and gave them flowers, fruits and sweets.
Mahmud’s Diary: “The Cause of God has always appeared from the East but it has been more effective in the West.” But Bahá’u’lláh is neither of the East nor of the West, neither of the South nor of the North. He is holy above all these directions.
Luminous Journey Documentary about ‘Abdu’l-Baha in America Luminous Journey Part 2 also see: Luminous Journey divided into chapters
September 14, 1912
Day 157: What’s Love Got to Do with It? 239 Days article
In 1912, Chicagoans listened as a renowned anthropologist declared love a hoax. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá argued otherwise.
Diary Entries: Chicago
Mahmud’s Diary: Protection of the Cause of God
Mahmud’s Diary: “All the affairs and conditions of the world serve the Cause of God.”
Mahmud’s Diary: SWalking with friends along the shore of Lake Michigan
He spoke about the sacrifice of a Japanese admiral: a general sacrificed himself and his children for the emperor and became renowned for sincerity and faithfulness. From this example it becomes obvious what we should do in the path of the Abha Beauty. If you view it in the light of justice, you will see that the emperor did not bestow upon his general a thousandth portion of the grace that the Blessed Beauty bestows upon us.
Mahmud’s Diary: The extraordinary warm reception and response from members of Theosophical Society
The president of the society introduced the Master with great respect, saying: Gentlemen, today it is a great bounty and high honor for us to be in the presence of a person who is the greatest prophet of peace and harmony. There is
no doubt — and I feel and say on behalf of the audience — that to the present time we have not had the honor of hearing the life-giving words from the tongue of a living prophet. Therefore, with unbounded happiness and heartfelt honor I present to you His Holiness ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the prophet of peace and the founder of universal brotherhood. The audience applauded with so much excitement and joy that it felt as though there were an earthquake in the auditorium. The president thanked the Master and acknowledged the truth and greatness of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. To show their concurrence with the words of their president, the members of the audience rose together in great excitement, a clear proof of the extraordinary powers of the Center of the Covenant.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá again arose and spoke:
I am very happy with your warmth and consideration. God be praised that there exist in America such societies founded on human principles, the appreciation of spiritual values and the investigation of truth. I am most grateful to this society and hope that your inner perception may increase and that the bounties of God will be with you.
Mahmud writes: When the Master went into another room the people rushed into it. Most of them wished to tell Him, ‘We testify to the truth of this Cause.’ The degree of excitement in the hearts of such a large gathering cannot be imagined. That such a transformation can occur in such a country is beyond belief.
September 13, 1912
Day 156: “Sometimes I Made Him Laugh” 239 Days article
In Chicago, a young Japanese man dangles from a lamp post to catch a glimpse of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Diary Entries: Chicago
Mahmud’s Diary: Tea prepared with love
Mahmud’s Diary: Receiving many visitors Since the friends were allowed to visit en masse, each morning there was such a crowd that there was no way up or down the stairs. When the Master got tired, He would take a walk outside and then return to the house.
Mahmud’s Diary: President of Worker’s Union visits ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Mahmud’s Diary: Why ‘Abdu’l-Bahá sought to cultivate love between the whites and the blacks If a man has spiritual characteristics, be he white or black, he is near to God. Some have protested to me, asking why I seek to cultivate love between the whites and the blacks. Yet what a great error they make. You see people who love their dogs because of their faithfulness and the protection they provide. If but one good trait endears a dog to a human, why shouldn’t praiseworthy qualities cause a man to be loved and respected? Why should fellowship with an upright person be avoided? When people are prepared to fondle an animal day and night, why should they shun association with an intelligent human being?
Mahmud’s Diary: September 12, 1912 Chicago, IL Commenting on His expenses in America It is with the power of faith that we ascend to the highest apex and attain honor in the all-glorious Kingdom.
Mahmud’s Diary: There is no parallel event in the history of the world that compares to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s visit to the West It is with the power of faith that we ascend to the highest apex and attain honor in the all-glorious Kingdom.
Mahmud’s Diary: The “mysteries of the Kingdom” are revealed to humanity through the establishment of the divine civilization
Saichiro Fujita: One of the Earliest Japanese Baha’is Several stories of Fujita with ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the Holy Land from the biography of Curtis Kelsey at Bahaiblog.net
Saichiro Fujita and Abdu’l-Baha Photos of Fujita with ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Shoghi Effendi and Hands of the Cause – Also the two Tablets written by ‘Abdu’l-Baha for Fujita plus a letter encouraging him to stay in the U.S. to get an education so that he can later serve Him in the Holy Land. at Bahai-storytelling.blogspot.com
September 12, 1912
Day 155: Europe “One Vast Arsenal,” Says ‘Abdu’l-Bahá 239 Days article
On September 11, Buffalo papers print ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s verbal attack against the contemporary pretexts for war.
Diary Entries: Buffalo & Chicago
Mahmud’s Diary: Abdu’l-Bahá’s response to the taxi driver who demanded more for the usual fare ‘A man may give $1,000 without minding it but he should not yield even a dollar to the person who wishes to take it wrongfully, for such wrongful behavior flouts justice and disrupts the order of the world.’
Mahmud’s Diary: The confirmation and assistance of the Abha Kingdom Articles from the Buffalo newspapers were being translated for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the train, today through the assistance of the Abha Beauty the Cause of God is proclaimed with the utmost openness in the churches and assemblies of the West
Mahmud’s Diary: “The friends in America expect me to visit each city …” As midday approached, and as the number of passengers increased at every station, the heat grew more and more intense, causing ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to become tired and weary.
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá arrives in Chicago and is warmly received by many friends at the train station It was an impressive sight, a field of yearning lovers canopied by heavens resounding with songs of joy. The friends formed two lines and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá walked majestically between them showering His blessings on each one. He then went by automobile to the home of Mrs. True, the maidservant of the Mashriqu’l-Adhkar. There one of the Japanese friends bowed at His feet and received His blessings.
Mahmud’s Diary: Chicago, IL “God … has bestowed upon you … a kingdom, greater than that of the Mikado [former emperor of Japan]” His eyes fell on Mr. [Saichiro] Fujita, the Japanese gentleman and He remarked: …Mikado has come to an end; all the hue and cry have ceased, a handful of dust was thrown over him and covered all his imperial regalia…But as you are a believer in God, you have a kingdom which will never collapse and will be everlasting. Offer thanks to God, Who has bestowed upon you such a kingdom, greater than that of the Mikado…One day as [Napoleon] was talking with his generals, they said that Christ, too, was a wise man like Napoleon. He replied, ‘No, you are mistaken. There is a vast difference between Him and me.’ The sovereignty of Napoleon ceased as soon as he died but the Kingdom of Christ is eternal.
September 11, 1912
Day 154: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Journey So Far: Month Five 239 Days article
Highlights from the fifth month of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s journey through North America.
Diary Entries: Buffalo
Mahmud’s Diary: People from as far away as Spokane and Ottawa came to visit ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Mr. Collins from Ottawa, who said that there were two thousand people in his city who believed in this golden age and in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and who wanted to have a glimpse of the Master…he minister of the Church of the Messiah was greatly pleased to hear the Master’s teachings. He stated that they could not be contradicted by anyone.
Mahmud’s Diary: Newspapers refer to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as “The Prince of the East” which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá did not welcome. He spoke with the reporters about the beginning and end of creation.
Mahmud’s Diary: Some believers are like “… trees that have strong roots …” Storms cannot shake them; rather, they add to their freshness.
Mahmud’s Diary: SThe Master paid home visits to two friends who were ill the neighborhood children crowded around Him, gazing at Him with reverence…He then distributed the coins among the children
Mahmud’s Diary: Minister of Church of the Messiah testifies to the greatness of the Cause of God and encourages congregation to go to Bahá’í meetings the official church newsletter in which he had published an extensive article about the history and teachings of the Cause….‘You have left nothing for me to say here tonight. You have published everything in his booklet.’…each received illumination from the Branch of the Ancient Root…He continued to speak about the importance of this great journey until about 2:00 a.m. when He finally rested.
News Clips
Buffalo NY Express September 11, 1912 Buffalo, NY ‘Abdu’l-Bahá an Optimist Thinks Religious Unity and World Peace Will Come Within Present Century – A PERSIAN PRINCE – Rich Enough to Travel With Retinue and to Pay All the Expenses of Trip. [‘Abdu’l-Baha]…always pays for entertainment of his meetings when entertaining is done, and never solicits contributions to his cause…The translations were in perfect English and beautiful in their eloquence…[prints full speech]…“In the world of existence, the greatest bounties emanate from love…“On the contrary, men are souls that are manifestations of Satanic influences – lack of love, hatred…“The earth is not the man’s life. It is his ultimate cemetery, and it is not becoming for men to quarrel over a cemetery. All this generation will have this land for graves not for a place of enjoyment. If it be a temporary place of life, it is an everlasting graveyard, and it will swallow all mankind, and all that inhabits it will be within its very bowels.“Man’s heart must be attached to God. He must seek the life everlasting.
Buffalo New York Courier Persian Peace Apostle Predicts War in Europe “The continent of Europe is one vast arsenal, which only requires one spark at its foundations and the whole of Europe will become a wasted wilderness. “And what flimsy, what impudent pretexts they use. Patriotism, say they; glory, say they; the upbuilding of the continent, say they. What a travesty on God’s truth.”
Buffalo New York Enquirer Message of Love Conveyed by Bahá BEAUTIFUL WORDS – Prince and Prophet Prays for Universal Peace — Europe One Vast Arsenal of Strife.
Buffalo New York Times Persian Teacher, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Abbas, Scents Great War So Called Prophet of Peace ppeals to Buffalonians to Help Avert Strife.
The Montreal Daily Star Canada Should Prepare For Great War Coming, Says Apostle of Peace Universal Peace Only Possible by Common Disarmament. But Europe is an Armed Camp; War Threatens England and Canada Must be Ready to Take a Hand Says ‘Abdu’l-Bahá – [detailed article about war] ‘Abdu’l-Bahá then told a little story to illustrate his point of reciprocity of action: The Turning of the Other Cheek…
September 10, 1912
Day 153: Jim Loft and the Man on the Train 239 Days article
A four year old Mohawk boy, Jim Loft, watches a passing train, and sees something he will only make sense of decades later.
Diary Entries: Buffalo
Mahmud’s Diary: A great number of people came to visit ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Buffalo The teachings so touched the hearts of the people that when the Master went out in the afternoon, passersby who saw Him pointed to Him, saying: ‘Look! There goes the Messenger of Peace, the Prophet from the East!’
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visits Niagara Falls
Mahmud’s Diary: An example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s affection and tenderness
Mahmud’s Diary: Buffalo Newspapers publish welcoming and supportive articles
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s talk breathed a new spirit of love and joy into friends and seekers alike
Mahmud’s Diary: A huge courteous crowd lined up in the street as the Master strolled along store fronts
Mahmud’s Diary: An example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s simple dinner For dinner ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ate a little bread and cheese and went to bed for the night.
News Clips
Buffalo New York Enquirer September 10, 1912 Buffalo, NY Prophet and Prince of Royal Persian Blood In Buffalo
Hail, ‘Abdul-Bahá Abbas – Universal Peace and Unity of the World His Aim, Without Asking Followers to Relinquish Their Respective Religions.
Buffalo New York Times September 10, 1912 Buffalo, NY Prophet of Peace Comes to Buffalo ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Has Arrived and Believers of the Bahá’í Cult Are Rejoicing.
Buffalo NY News September 10, 1912 Buffalo, NY Head of Oriental “Equality of Man” Cult in Buffalo
Early African American Baha’is
Black Plato and the Harlem Renaissance Alain Locke CHRISTOPHER BUCK | MAY 25, 2014 PART 15 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
September 9, 1912
Day 152: The Golden Horseshoe Returns ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to … 239 Days article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá’ rides the train from Montreal, through the industrializing cities of southern Ontario, to Buffalo.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: Preparations to leave Montreal for Buffalo
Mahmud’s Diary: The meaning of the first coming of Christ from “heaven”
Mahmud’s Diary: Although train ride was exhausting on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, He considered such discomforts as “greatest bounties”
Mahmud’s Diary: The green scenery would remind Him of Bahá’u’lláh
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá busy with work while travelling
Mahmud’s Diary: The Master’s face opened up like a rose when He was told that the chief Custom officer didn’t see a need to examine the effects of the Bahá’ís
How Abdu’l-Baha Touched the Lives of Certain Notable Individuals
Animated Video: Through Their Eyes – Meeting Abdu’l-Baha “Through Their Eyes” is a short animation that brings to life how Abdu’l-Baha touched the lives of certain notable individuals. We get a glimpse of what the Lebanese poet, writer, and artist Khalil Gibran said about Abdu’l-Baha after they met in New York, how the Japanese poet Yone Nogushi described Abdu’l-Baha’s teachings, and also how Abdu’l-Baha’s unbounded love influenced Lady Blomfield, a humanitarian and child rights activist from Great Britain.
How Abdu’l-Baha Influenced the Education of Girls in Iran
Animated Video: Breaking the Chains: The Story of the Girls Schools in Iran
Only 5% of the population of Iran had access to basic writing skills and knowledge of sciences was kept exclusively to men, and breaking a cycle of thousands of years of oppression was no small feat. That’s when Tahirih and Abdu’l-Baha come into the story.
Persian Version of Videos:
– کلید رهایی درون قفس (Through Their Eyes)
شکفتن از شکاف سنگ (Breaking the Chains: The Story of the Girls School of Iran)
September 8, 1912
Day 151: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Bids Farewell to Montreal 239 Days article
Our guest writer for the Montreal sequence, Tony Michel, reflects on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s time in the city.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: “I have sown the seed … You must water it.”
Mahmud’s Diary: Abdu’l-Bahá recalled His imprisonment: “…we were imprisoned for the Cause of God and not for political reasons …”
Mahmud’s Diary: Last day in Montreal
William Sutherland Maxwell (1874 – 1952) Hand of the Cause of God, architect of the superstructure to the Shrine of the Báb
Mary (May) Bolles Maxwell’s Childhood Dream Comes to Life Lights of ‘Irfán Book Twelve – Mayfowers in the Ville Lumière: the Dawning of Bahá’í History in the European Continent by Julio Savi – … a young American lady becomes the catalyst for the spiritual awakening of a group of early God-intoxicated believers. May’s story begins the series but for a shorter version go to the bottom of page 284.
September 7, 1912
Day 150: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Montreal Odyssey 239 Days article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá explores Montreal city by carriage, tram, and foot, and acquires a genuine Montreal head cold as a souvenir.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: Just like the physical four seasons “in the realm of religion there is the season of heavenly and spiritual springtime.”
Mahmud’s Diary: Followers of all religions agree that “a mediator between the Creator and the creatures is needed.”
News Clips
Harbor Grace Standard September 7, 1912 Montreal, QC Persian Peace Prophet Gives Message to Canada through the Standard
Comments on Great Prosperity of This Country — His Remarkable, Varied and Romantic Career.
A venerable, gray haired man, older than his years, with flowing locks and patriarchial beard, the furrows of suffering on his still handsome and striking face, and lines telling of deep and anxious thought upon his brow, this is ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, leader of the Bahá’í peace movement, who has come to preach his gospel of universal brotherhood and love to the people of Canada.
Early African American Baha’is
America and Social Salvation Alain Locke speaks on the “salvation of democracy” CHRISTOPHER BUCK | JAN 12, 2019 PART 53 IN SERIES THE UNIVERSAL EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION at BahaiTeachings.org
September 6, 1912
Day 149: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Montreal’s Not-So-Yellow Press 239 Days article
Montreal’s papers battle for readership, publishing both accurate and surprising coverage of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s time in the city.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá delayed His departure from Montreal due to a cold
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá decides to visit the friends in California
Mahmud’s Diary: Mr. Maxwell’s attitude towards the Faith improved drastically after meeting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Mahmud’s Diary: We should “cling to those things which prove to be the cause of happiness for the world of man.”
Mahmud’s Diary: “Children are the ornaments of the home…”
News Clips
Biddeford Maine Weekly Journal ‘Abdu’l-Bahá at Greenacre Conferences Impressions Made by the Eastern Master Upon His Hearers
…Picture a tall, commanding figure, with white hair and beard, eyes that, though blue, give the impression of dark eyes, so deep and keen are they, with a haunting something in their depths; a long black robe, and white fez; a firm, fine hand; this is the outward appearance of the master. His personality impresses those who meet him in various ways, according to their own temperaments; but all feel the power of the man. He is always ready to give his time to people who wish to meet him, even planning an audience for the colored servants at the Inn. When they were assembled before him, he addressed them somewhat as follows, the report is from memory: “Friends, I have asked to see you that I may talk to you of your relations to your fellowmen and to God. Though your skins are black and you are different from the people around you, your souls are not different; they may be as white as any man’s. I beg you to pray to God that you may be honest and truthful, that you may do your work well, that you may be faithful, and may live so that your souls may be close to God. I myself will supplicate God for you that you may be good and true. I had a servant once, black like you, but no man had ever a soul more white. I thank you all for your kindness to me; you have worked hard to prepare pleasant food for me; you have labored for my comfort, while I have been at ease. I thank you, and I will supplicate God for you, that he may help you.”
The Montreal Daily Herald September 6, 1912 Montreal, QC Church and Bench Give a Farewell Tribute to Sage Rev. Dr. Symonds, who presided, remarked that it was a great mistake to think the West could learn nothing from the East, while Recorder Weir referred to the lecturer as one who was in the lofty succession of the line of prophets. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s presence was proof, the Recorder said, that the race of prophets was not yet extinct.
Montreal Le Devoir Le Prophete Abul Bahá
Montreal La presse Depart d’Abdul-Bahá
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s address to Socialists and Labor leaders in Coronation Hall Montreal, Canada Man is in Need of Continuous Cooperation and Reciprocity Is it possible for one member of a family to be subjected to the utmost misery and to abject poverty and for the rest of the family to be comfortable? It is impossible unless those members of the family be senseless, atrophied, inhospitable, unkind…The purport is this, that we are all inhabiting one globe of earth. In reality we are one family, and each one of us is a member of this family. We must all be in the greatest happiness and comfort, under a just rule and regulation which is according to the good pleasure of God, thus causing us to be happy, for this life is fleeting… But in the divine teachings equality is brought about through a ready willingness to share. It is commanded as regards wealth that the rich among the people, and the aristocrats should, by their own free will and for the sake of their own happiness, concern themselves with and care for the poor. This equality is the result of the lofty characteristics and noble attributes of mankind.
September 5, 1912
Day 148: Principles for a Modern Religion 239 Days article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells 1,200 people at St. James Methodist Church in Montreal how religion must change.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: The Bishop of Montreal, a Jewish rabbi, and the editor of an illustrated Toronto magazine came to visit the Master
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s reaction to being referred to as a ‘Prophet’
Mahmud’s Diary: At the end of His talk at the Methodist Church a judge repeatedly expressed his desire to become a Bahá’í
News Clips
The Montreal Gazette Socialism Must Be Met ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Continues Lectures on Modern Conditions. Real and spiritual brotherhood was that which was ready to endure hardship, suffering and sacrifice, as exemplified in the lives of the prophets. If the problems of socialism were to be solved, it must be on the lines of establishing this spiritual brotherhood.
The Montreal Daily Star Socialism Not Cure For Evils of Present Day ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Says Only Spiritual Brotherhood is Effective * KINGS ARE NOT AT EASE, NOR ARE THEIR PEOPLES * Says to Bring Earthly Paradise Out of the Potential and Into the Real.
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at St. James Methodist Church Montreal, Canada Bounties of the Holy Spirit are Continuous I am looking upon the faces of those who are earnest in their search for reality and who sincerely long to attain knowledge of truth. God has created man and endowed him with the power of reason whereby he may arrive at valid conclusions. Therefore, man must endeavor in all things to investigate the fundamental reality. If he does not independently investigate, he has failed to utilize the talent God has bestowed upon him. I am pleased with the American people because, as a rule, they are independent seekers of the truth; their minds are actively employed instead of remaining idle and unproductive… Some souls imagine that there is a cessation to the bounties of God, as if at one time the divine bestowals are poured out, at another time withheld from mankind and ceasing…The cessation of the bestowals of God at any time would be equivalent to the cessation of the sovereignty of God… Therefore, the sound reasoning mind concludes that the bounties of the Holy Spirit are continuous and that holy souls are ever the recipients of these divine emanations. The potency of the Holy Spirit is everlasting, not temporary… Unless the mirror reflects the sunlight, it is only dark, inanimate matter. Likewise, the hearts and spirits of mankind, when deprived and without their portion of the bounties of the Holy Spirit, linger in the abyss of darkness and ignorance…From time immemorial the divine teachings have been successively revealed, and the bounties of the Holy Spirit have ever been emanating. All the teachings are one reality, for reality is single and does not admit multiplicity. Therefore, the divine Prophets are one, inasmuch as They reveal the one reality, the Word of God…the words of Bahá’u’lláh are the essences of the words of the Prophets of the past. They are the very spirit of the age and the cause of the unity and illumination of the East and the West. The followers of His teachings are in conformity with the precepts and commands of all the former heavenly Messengers…
…O Lord! Render the eyes perceptive that they may witness the lights of Thy Kingdom. Render the ears attentive that they may hear the heavenly summons. Resuscitate the spirits that they may be exhilarated through the breath of the Holy Spirit. O Lord! Verily, we are weak, but Thou art almighty. We are poor, but Thou art rich. Have mercy upon us. Apportion unto us a goodly share of Thy realities, and lead us into the arena of Thine attainments. Thou art the Powerful. Thou art the Able. Thou art the kind Lord.
Note: The other PUP talk for September 5, will be posted tomorrow.
September 4, 1912
Day 147: Economics and Spirituality 239 Days article
In Montreal ‘Abdu’l-Bahá discusses why contemporary economic solutions cannot solve the world’s problems.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: Our thoughts should be turned toward bringing the blessed teachings of Bahá’u’lláh into practice
Mahmud’s Diary: A short trip to Mount Royal
Mahmud’s Diary: Attributing all success to Bahá’u’lláh’s assistance
Mahmud’s Diary: The value and greatness of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s travels will become apparent later
Mahmud’s Diary: Audience fascinated by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s demeanor and words
News Clips
The Montreal Daily Star Earth Should Be Paradise, Says Seer ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Tells Socialists About His Scheme for a General Distribution of Wealth. UPHOLDS DISTINCTIONS IN PEOPLE’S SOCIAL POSITION | But Says All Should Pay Tithes Graduated According to the Net Income.
Montreal Le Devoir Une Conference d’Abdu’l-Bahá
Montreal La presse Une Conference D’Abdu’l-Bahá, Le Sage Turc
September 3, 1912
Day 146: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Montreal’s Socialists 239 Days article
Abdu’l-Bahá speaks to an audience of 500 in Montreal and suggests new ways to alleviate poverty.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: Meeting with some professors and clergymen
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s adventure in Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: An example of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s multi-tasking ability
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s address on economics and principle of moderation was enthusiastically received
News Clips
London Ontario paper Bahá’í Revelation Comes to City Oriental Faith of the Reformed Mohammedanism Type Has Followers Here.
Buffalo New York Enquirer This is Bahá’ísm Persia is showing to the world an example of religious unity that seems to make western efforts in the same line appear elementary. Mohammedans, Christians, Jews and Zoroastrians are finding a point of approach without surrendering the vital elements of their individual faiths…You can be a Bahá’í without ceasing to be a Christian, a Jew or a Mohammedan.
Songs by Luke Scott in Honour of the Centenary of the Passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha
Whatever We Are (Still Are We Thine) from his Home of Light album being release one song at a time from August to November.
Ask Whatsoever Thou Wishest from his Home of Light album
September 5, 1912
Day 148: Principles for a Modern Religion 239 Days article
‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells 1,200 people at St. James Methodist Church in Montreal how religion must change.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: The Bishop of Montreal, a Jewish rabbi, and the editor of an illustrated Toronto magazine came to visit the Master
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s reaction to being referred to as a ‘Prophet’
Mahmud’s Diary: At the end of His talk at the Methodist Church a judge repeatedly expressed his desire to become a Bahá’í
News Clips
The Montreal Gazette Socialism Must Be Met ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Continues Lectures on Modern Conditions. Real and spiritual brotherhood was that which was ready to endure hardship, suffering and sacrifice, as exemplified in the lives of the prophets. If the problems of socialism were to be solved, it must be on the lines of establishing this spiritual brotherhood.
The Montreal Daily Star Socialism Not Cure For Evils of Present Day ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Says Only Spiritual Brotherhood is Effective * KINGS ARE NOT AT EASE, NOR ARE THEIR PEOPLES * Says to Bring Earthly Paradise Out of the Potential and Into the Real.
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at St. James Methodist Church Montreal, Canada Bounties of the Holy Spirit are Continuous I am looking upon the faces of those who are earnest in their search for reality and who sincerely long to attain knowledge of truth. God has created man and endowed him with the power of reason whereby he may arrive at valid conclusions. Therefore, man must endeavor in all things to investigate the fundamental reality. If he does not independently investigate, he has failed to utilize the talent God has bestowed upon him. I am pleased with the American people because, as a rule, they are independent seekers of the truth; their minds are actively employed instead of remaining idle and unproductive… Some souls imagine that there is a cessation to the bounties of God, as if at one time the divine bestowals are poured out, at another time withheld from mankind and ceasing…The cessation of the bestowals of God at any time would be equivalent to the cessation of the sovereignty of God… Therefore, the sound reasoning mind concludes that the bounties of the Holy Spirit are continuous and that holy souls are ever the recipients of these divine emanations. The potency of the Holy Spirit is everlasting, not temporary… Unless the mirror reflects the sunlight, it is only dark, inanimate matter. Likewise, the hearts and spirits of mankind, when deprived and without their portion of the bounties of the Holy Spirit, linger in the abyss of darkness and ignorance…From time immemorial the divine teachings have been successively revealed, and the bounties of the Holy Spirit have ever been emanating. All the teachings are one reality, for reality is single and does not admit multiplicity. Therefore, the divine Prophets are one, inasmuch as They reveal the one reality, the Word of God…the words of Bahá’u’lláh are the essences of the words of the Prophets of the past. They are the very spirit of the age and the cause of the unity and illumination of the East and the West. The followers of His teachings are in conformity with the precepts and commands of all the former heavenly Messengers…
…O Lord! Render the eyes perceptive that they may witness the lights of Thy Kingdom. Render the ears attentive that they may hear the heavenly summons. Resuscitate the spirits that they may be exhilarated through the breath of the Holy Spirit. O Lord! Verily, we are weak, but Thou art almighty. We are poor, but Thou art rich. Have mercy upon us. Apportion unto us a goodly share of Thy realities, and lead us into the arena of Thine attainments. Thou art the Powerful. Thou art the Able. Thou art the kind Lord.
Note: ‘Abdu’l-Baha gave two talks on September 5. Today I posted the talk that was referred to in the 239 Days article with some excerpts. The other talk will be posted tomorrow.
September 1, 1912
Day 144: Blood Shed Over “Imaginary Lines” 239 Days article
At the Church of the Messiah in Montreal, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá critiques the imaginary divisions created by humanity.
Diary Entries: Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: Sitting next to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in the carriage
Mahmud’s Diary: A young child emulates his mother’s faith in the Master
Mahmud’s Diary: Montreal During a talk at His residence the Master spoke so excitedly that His taj fell from His head
Mahmud’s Diary: The Master’s first talk in Montreal was enthusiastically received by the audience – causing a wonderful change of heart in the people of Montreal
Mahmud’s Diary: A prayer revealed and chanted by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Canada
Mahmud’s Diary: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s first public talk in Canada
Mahmud’s Diary: Very dignified and respectful introduction of the Master by the pastor of the Unitarian Church
News Clips
Portland Oregon Oregonian ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is Coming on Tour in the Interest of His Religion Leader of Religions Movement Which Claims Three Million Followers Soon to Visit Portland — Votaries Term Him “Prophet of God.” “‘Abdu’l-Bahá is coming!” “‘Abdu’l-Bahá is coming!”…Everywhere he left a profound impression. His wisdom is said to be a marvel to all who have met him. He shows the greatest familiarity with the Bible and all the holy books of the different religions. He charms men of learning and devotes his life to succoring the poor and unfortunate. …‘Abdu’l-Bahá replied: “What would you say if I prove to you, that woman is the stronger wing?” And the suffragist responded, “You would earn my eternal gratitude.”
Promulgation of Universal Peace: Transcriptions of Talks by ‘Abdu’l-Baha in the United States and Canada
PUP: Talk at Church of the Messiah Montreal, Canada The Foundation of the Religions of God is One Foundation
The Prophets of God have been the servants of reality; Their teachings constitute the science of reality. Reality is one; it does not admit plurality. We conclude, therefore, that the foundation of the religions of God is one foundation…The cause of the creation of the phenomenal world is love. All the Prophets have promulgated the law of love…the revelations of all the Prophets of the past have been in perfect unity and agreement, that the heavenly Books have confirmed each other; therefore, why should contention and strife exist among the people?…the religion or guidance of God must be the means of love and fellowship in the world. If religion proves to be the source of hatred, enmity and contention, if it becomes the cause of warfare and strife and influences men to kill each other, its absence is preferable…religion must be in accord with science and reason. If it does not correspond with scientific principles and the processes of reason, it is superstition.
PUP: Talk at Home of Mr. and Mrs. William Sutherland Maxwell – Montreal, Canada God Created Man With the Potential Power to Attain His Likeness
We must pray that they may be reborn, that they may attain insight and spiritual hearing, that they may receive the gift of another heart, a new transcendent power, and in the eternal world the unending bestowal of divine bounties.
PUP: Talk at Home of Mr. and Mrs. William Sutherland Maxwell – Montreal, Canada Proofs of the Immortality of the Spirit of Man
…consider the world of dreams, wherein the body of man is immovable, seemingly dead, not subject to sensation; the eyes do not see, the ears do not hear nor the tongue speak. But the spirit of man is not asleep; it sees, hears, moves, perceives and discovers realities. Therefore, it is evident that the spirit of man is not affected by the change or condition of the body. Even though the material body should die, the spirit continues eternally alive, just as it exists and functions in the inert body in the realm of dreams. That is to say, the spirit is immortal and will continue its existence after the destruction of the body.