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TAGS: * Metaphors and allegories; * Words and phrases; Annemarie Schimmel; Chahar Vadi (Four Valleys); Fragrance; Joseph (Prophet); Knowledge; Manifestations of God; Self; Wine (metaphor)
Abstract:
Studies of this book often focus on its Sufi and mystical aspects. But when it is seen within the larger context of the totality of the Bahá’í Writings, its purpose appears as a guide for spiritual wayfarers to the recognition of the Manifestation of God.
Notes:

Reflections on The Four Valleys of Bahá'u'lláh

Amrollah Hemmat

published in Journal of Bahá'í Studies

30:4, pp. 11-51

Ottawa: Association for Bahá'í Studies North America, 2021

About: The Four Valleys was revealed in Bagdad in a mystical language and style, in response to a request made by a prominent Sufi. Yet, despite the traditional Sufi concepts, language, and symbolism employed by Bahá’u’lláh, studying the text in light of the totality of Bahá’í writings demonstrates that its main purpose is to guide the wayfarers to the recognition of the Manifestation of God, soon to be revealed to be Bahá’u’lláh Himself. Furthermore, understanding the text as portraying two complementary paradigms—four parallel paths towards God and the four stages of a single path—leads to integrative and holistic perspectives and practices prescribed in the Bahá’í writings.
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