Bibliography: BIB27378

Key	BIB27378
Reference type	Journal Article
Title	A Study of the Pen Motif in the Bahá'í Writings
Journal	Journal of Bahá'í Studies
Author	Milani, Kavian and Fananapazir, Nafeh
Year	1999
Date	Mar. 1999
Issue	1
Volume	9
Abstract	This is an introductory survey of the frequently encountered pen motif in Bahá'í writings. The theological usage of the "pen" is explored along with the Islamic theological and theosophical background of the term. The pen is a metaphor for the preexistent and creative force presented by the Manifestation of God. The pen-tablet releationship is then examined with the pen as a creative metaphor. The pen-tablet (active-recipient) motif is then used to explore the possible correlation between two theosophical topics -- the "five divine presences" and the seven stages of "coming into being." The creative forces of the pen, undergoing emanation, create five distinct realms of existence. These five realms are generated as the pen creates in descending emanation. The pen undergoes the natural order of generation, the seven stages of "coming into being," as each of the divine presences are created.
Language	English
Keywords	BAHA'U'LLAH. SURATU'L-QALAM; SCRIPTURE; PEN; CREATION; COSMOGONY
Pages	27–49