“O thou who art enkindled by the fire of the Love of...”
'Abdu'l-Bahá, Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá Abbas, (1909) · Read original
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When in Bahá'í history
O thou who art enkindled by the fire of the Love of God!
Verily, I was informed of the text of thy letter, wherein thou praisest the firm servant of God, Mirza ........ and was rejoiced in heart for the signs of joy which are manifested in thee in this illustrious day. I ask God to make thee a sign of guidance, fountain of knowledge and a caller in His name, the Merciful, so that the hearts may become gladdened by the mention of God and the souls be led to the Kingdom of God, to this Great Dwelling Place and Sublime Home.
As to the four stations which I refer to in the divine treatise: I ask God to open the door before thy face, that thou mayest enter therein, that thou mayest attain to its lights and become informed of its mysteries. I shall not give a detailed explanation thereof, on account of the great work (i.e., because of the exceeding press of business).
Regarding the treatise (or pamphlet) which thou didst compile in proof of the appearance of the Kingdom of God—thou didst well! I shall read it at a leisure time, and ask God to aide thee in compiling other useful writings in demonstration of God.
As to organization of other meetings for the maid-servants of the Merciful, for the spread of the fragrances of God; this is the best deed and most complete action. I ask God to strengthen thee in this matter so that you may organize many gatherings for the spread of the teachings of God. Thus the Lord of Hosts will confirm you by armies of the Supreme Concourse and hosts of the angels of heaven. Verily it is the army of inspiration and the hosts of benediction.
Source: 'Abdu'l-Bahá, Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá Abbas (1909). Public domain text from Project Gutenberg eBook #19312.
Discuss this story
For adults
- What stands out about 'Abdu'l-Bahá's response in this account?
- What in your own life does this story bring to mind?
- Where do you see joy appearing — visibly or quietly — in this passage?
For teens
- If you were in 'Abdu'l-Bahá's place, what might you have done?
- What does this story teach about joy?
Reflection
- What single image from this story will stay with you?
- How does joy show up in your life right now — and where is it being asked of you?
- Read the passage a second time, slowly. What did you notice that you missed the first time?
Comprehension quiz
Which source is "“O thou who art enkindled by the fire of the Love of...”" drawn from?
What period of Bahá'í history does this story belong to?
Which historical figure is featured most prominently in this story?
Which virtue does this story most clearly illustrate?
Cite this story
'Abdu'l-Bahá. (1909). *Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá Abbas*. https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/19312/pg19312-images.html
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