Jewel in the Lotus:

1. Transcript (see video below)

Architect Fariborz Sahba based his design on the ancient spiritual symbol of the lotus. Embodying purity and tenderness, the lotus is closely associated with Manifestations of God. Realization of the delicacy of the lotus form involved complex geometry. Advanced computer technology along with a high degree of precision was required throughout the design, fabrication and erection of the structure. The work was accomplished by traditional Indian craftsmen using minimal equipment and time-worn techniques in conjunction with the most sophisticated modern construction methods.

The House of Worship is the achievement of hundreds of people from different races, countries, and religious backgrounds who joined in a harmonious effort to build a tabernacle of peace and unity. It extends an invitation to the followers of all religions to recognize the underlying unity that makes them all one in spirit.

Produced by Fred Badiyan in 1987, Baha'i Blog was graciously given the rights to publish 'Jewel in the Lotus' on our YouTube channel, and we'd like to express our deepest thanks to Fred Badiyan for allowing us to share this precious video with others. (from youtube.com/watch?v=rq_X--FkFeQ)

Transcript (text auto-generated by Youtube, then formatted by ChatGPT)

Transcript:

[Music]

0:00 – 2:10

India, a land of rich cultural heritage, its people steeped in traditions of ancient and diverse faiths. Indian life, Indian art, and perhaps most of all, Indian architecture, display a diverse panoply of significant and powerful symbols expressive of the innermost life of the spirit of man. Symbols that unite man with his Creator, symbols that have often separated him from his fellow man.

Four hundred years ago, Shah Akbar, the greatest of the Mughal emperors, from his magnificent palace near Agra, dreamed of uniting all the diverse people of India under the banner of one universal faith:

"While I dreamed that stone by stone I reared a sacred fame,
A temple neither pagod mosque nor church,
But loftier, simpler,
Always open door to every breath from heaven,
And truth and peace and love and justice came
And dwelt therein."

But such a goal remained far beyond the reach of even the most powerful emperor.

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2:10 – 3:38

In 1880, Jamal Effendi sailed to Bombay, bringing the Bahá'í Faith—the teachings of Bahá'u'lláh—to the Indian subcontinent. The Bahá'í Faith, the newest of the world's major religions, proclaimed the underlying spiritual unity of the diverse peoples and religions of humankind. The impending fulfillment of Akbar's dream: a truly universal religion.

Through the next 100 years, the Bahá'í community grew, developing the foundations of religious unity. The young Bahá'í community longed to build a unique temple...

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3:38 – 6:55

The young Bahá’í community longed to build a unique temple that would serve as a beacon of the Faith’s ideals of unity and inclusivity. This desire became a reality when the decision was made to construct the Bahá'í House of Worship in New Delhi. The vision was to create a temple where all people—regardless of race, religion, or class—could come together to meditate and worship God.

To design the temple, a competition was announced. Many renowned architects submitted their designs, but the winning proposal came from an Iranian-Canadian architect, Fariborz Sahba. His design was inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol of purity and peace revered in Indian culture.

Sahba's concept was groundbreaking. It blended traditional Indian symbolism with modern architectural techniques, creating a structure that reflected both the spirit of India and the universality of the Bahá'í Faith. However, transforming this vision into reality was an immense challenge that required innovation, precision, and teamwork.

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6:55 – 10:32

The construction of the Lotus Temple began in the late 1970s. It was a monumental task. The temple's unique design demanded the highest level of craftsmanship and cutting-edge engineering. The central feature—the lotus petals—was particularly challenging. Each petal was made from white concrete and covered in marble from Mount Pentelicus in Greece, the same marble used in the Parthenon.

Thousands of workers, engineers, and artisans from all over the world came together to work on the project. The unity of this diverse workforce reflected the core principle of the Bahá'í Faith: the oneness of humanity.

Despite numerous challenges, including financial constraints and technical difficulties, the temple was completed in 1986. When it was inaugurated, it immediately became a symbol of spiritual unity and architectural brilliance.

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10:32 – 14:15

The Lotus Temple has no clergy, no rituals, and no ceremonies. It is open to people of all faiths. Visitors are free to meditate, pray, or simply sit in silence. This inclusive approach resonates deeply in a country like India, where religious diversity is both a strength and a source of tension.

The temple has become one of the most visited buildings in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. People from all walks of life are drawn to its serene atmosphere and the universal message it represents.

Fariborz Sahba reflected on the project, stating that the temple was not just an architectural achievement but a manifestation of the Bahá'í principle of unity in diversity. He hoped the temple would inspire people to reflect on their shared spiritual heritage and work toward a more united and peaceful world.

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14:15 – 18:05

The Lotus Temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for social and educational activities. It hosts programs that promote interfaith dialogue, community building, and social justice. These activities align with the Bahá'í teachings, which emphasize the importance of service to humanity.

Over the years, the temple has received numerous awards and accolades for its architectural excellence and its contribution to promoting peace and understanding. It has been featured in countless publications and documentaries, further solidifying its status as an icon of modern India.

Yet, for the Bahá'ís, the true significance of the Lotus Temple lies not in its beauty or fame but in its ability to bring people together. It serves as a reminder of the oneness of humanity and the need for unity in a divided world.

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18:05 – 22:45

The story of the Lotus Temple is a testament to the power of faith, vision, and collaboration. It demonstrates how people from different backgrounds can come together to create something extraordinary when guided by a common purpose.

The temple's impact extends far beyond its physical structure. It has become a source of inspiration for millions, encouraging them to reflect on the spiritual values that unite all humanity. Its presence in New Delhi, a bustling metropolis, offers a tranquil refuge where people can escape the chaos of daily life and reconnect with their inner selves.

As the sun sets over the city, the Lotus Temple lights up, its petals glowing softly against the night sky. It stands as a beacon of hope, a symbol of unity, and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.

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22:45 – 27:10

Today, the Lotus Temple continues to fulfill its mission of promoting spiritual harmony and understanding. It welcomes visitors from all over the world, inviting them to experience its message of unity firsthand.

The Bahá'í House of Worship in New Delhi is more than just a building; it is a living embodiment of the principles of the Bahá'í Faith. It reminds us that despite our differences, we are all connected by a shared spiritual essence.

In the words of Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith: "The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens."

This vision of unity, so beautifully expressed in the Lotus Temple, offers a path toward a future where peace, understanding, and love prevail.

[Music fades out]

2. Video