Lights
of
Guidance

A BAHÁ'Í REFERENCE FILE

Compiled
by
Helen Bassett Hornby

BAHÁ'Í PUBLISHING TRUST
NEW DELHI, INDIA



©NATIONAL SPIRITUAL ASSEMBLY
OF THE BAHÁ'ÍS OF ECUADOR

FIRST EDITION, 1983
SECOND REVISED AND ENLARGED EDITION, 1988
THIRD REVISED EDITION, 1994
FOURTH REVISED EDITION, 1996
REPRINT, 1997
REPRINT, 1999
REPRINT MARCH, 2001

ISBN: 81-85091-46-3

Published by
Bahá'í Publishing Trust of India
F-3/6, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase -I
New Delhi - 110020

Printed at Rakmo Press Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.



INTRODUCTION

      "The Bahá'í Faith is an independent world religion. 'It proclaims the necessity and inevitability of the unification of mankind... It, moreover, enjoins upon its followers the primary duty of an unfettered search after truth, condemns all manner of prejudice and superstition, declares the purpose of religion to be the promotion of amity and concord, proclaims its essential harmony with science, and recognizes it as the foremost agency for the pacification and the orderly progress of human society. It unequivocally maintains the principle of equal rights, opportunities and privileges for men and women, insists on compulsory education, eliminates extremes of poverty and wealth, abolishes the institution of priesthood, prohibits slavery, asceticism, mendicancy and monasticism, prescribes monogamy, discourages divorce, emphasizes the necessity of strict obedience to one's government, exalts any work performed in the spirit of service to the level of worship, urges either the creation or the selection of an auxiliary international language, and delineates the outlines of those institutions that must establish and perpetuate the general peace of mankind.'"1
      This volume contains letters from Central Figures of the Bahá'í Faith and its guiding institutions, applying the spiritual principles of the Bahá'í Faith, as expressed in the revealed word of Bahá'u'lláh, to the practical problems and issues facing individual Bahá'ís and their local communities.
      Just as Jesus Christ referred His followers to the spiritual teachings of Moses and Muhammad in turn directed His believers to the teachings of Christ, Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation acknowledges its position as the newest in an ancient succession of religions. Each of the world's great religions draws on a sacred body of text that expresses eternally valid spiritual principles and applies those principles to the time and place of the Messenger of God whose words form the basis of that Holy Scripture.
      The Báb (the "Gate"), Himself a Messenger of God, established the Bábí religion in Persia in 1844. His example and teachings invigorated the people with the force of spiritual revolution. Before His martyrdom in 1850, the Báb instructed His followers to search for the Promised One, whose Revelation the Bábí Faith heralded.
      A period of persecution followed when more than 20,000 Bábís were tortured and executed for thier steadfast beliefs. Then in 1863, in garden near Baghdád, Bahá'u'lláh (the "Glory of God") revealed Himself to a group of Bábís as the Messenger so long awaited. The Bahá'í Faith is the religion founded on Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation of God's Word for this age.
      Before His death in 1892, Bahá'u'lláh appointed His eldest son, 'Abdu'l-Bahá (the "Servant of the Glory"), to guide the Bahá'í community by example and by words, authorizing Him to interpret the sacred text. 'Abdu'l-Bahá did so until His death in 1921, travelling to Africa, America and Europe.
      The Will and Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá designated His grandson, Shoghi Effendi Rabbani, Guardian of the Cause and authorized interpreter of Bahá'u'lláh's


Revelation. During his lifetime, the Bahá'í Faith grew rapidly and communities were founded throughout the world. Shoghi Effendi Rabbani guided the development of local, national, and international institutions prescribed in Bahá'u'lláh's teachings; these allowed Bahá'í communities to be nourished by their diversity and frameworks which promoted unity. A few years after his death, the administrative structure Shoghi Effendi Rabbani so lovingly fostered blossomed in the election of the first Universal House of Justice, an institution ordained by Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation.
      "The Universal House of Justice is the supreme governing body of the Bahá'í Faith. Elected quinquennially at international conventions, the Universal House of Justice gives spiritual guidance to and directs the administrative activities of the worldwide Bahá'í community that numbers between three and four million."2, 1

Dawn K. Smith

1 Addedum to The Promise of World Peace, Wilmette, 1985
2 In 1993, over five million.


PREFACE

TO 1983 EDITION

The purpose of this compilation is to serve as a ready reference for the institutions, pioneers, teachers, et al. The majority of the material cited herein is from the original or xerox copies of letters of the beloved Guardian Shoghi Effendi, the Universal House of Justice and, to a lesser degree, from talks and Tablets of the three Central Figures of the Faith. All letters or quotes from 'Bahá'í News', journals and bulletins were authenticated or verified from transcripts from the World Centre or from various National Archives. In a few cases where no record of an item could be found other than from the publications, permission was granted to use it until such time as the original is found and corrections will then be made if necessary.
      Apparent inconsistencies in the annotations of sources are the consequence of having received a number of verified transcripts from the World Centre. These transcripts often noted corrections of published material quoted, and sometimes cited more of the original letter than was previously published with the suggestion noted that for the sake of clarity the compiler might like to use the entire letter or paragraph.
      A number of the compilations by the Universal House of Justice or its Research Department have been published by different Publishing Trusts subsequent to the drafting of this 'Reference File', therefore a published source may or may not be cited. However, aware that many friends would not have access to original copies of compilations or letters, the compiler went back and found a number of citations and inserted references from available published sources.
      The inexperienced reader may also question the inconsistencies in spelling and the diacritical markings throughout the compilation. In accordance with the standard set by the House of Justice, it appears that liberties should not be taken with letters written by or on behalf of the Guardian, nor of the talks and Tablets of the three Central Figures of the Faith. The compiler has adhered strictly to this standard and only in two or three instances of glaring errors is the correct spelling cited in parenthesis.
      The compiler humbly desires to express her heartfelt thanks and sincere gratitude to the Universal House of Justice and the Department of Secretariat for their guidance, help, stimulation and encouragement which engendered hope and the necessary courage for her to dare to think of finishing this Reference File during the most critical period of her life, and for their kindness and concern in sending innumerous transcripts for verification and authentication of material which could not be located elsewhere; to the Counsellors of South America (before the merger to form the Continental Board of Counsellors for the Americas) for their stimulating influence and assistance over the years, for their love and infinite patience and sharing of material for this project. Special thanks to the National Spiritual Assembly of Ecuador for its never failing help, boundless love and understanding and unlimited assistance with this work so that it could


become a reality. It would indeed take a book to cite the names of all the friends who so kindly helped or contributed in some way to the successful completion of this reference work. Grateful acknowledgement is extended to each and every one of you wherever you are! And a 'special measure' of gratitude to the friends in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, Michigan for sacrificing so much of their time and energy, often after long hours of work and study, to help finish this project. Without their assistance it would have taken several more months to complete it.
      Sometimes one wishes for the spiritual language of the other plane to express one's deep emotions. Now, is one of the moments; the compiler cherishes such desire to express her love and thanks to Dr. Rahmatu'lláh Muhájir, the Hand of the Cause of God, for his stimulating influence and help and for his review of this Reference File the night before he passed away.
      Many questions have been received as to how this compilation came into being or was initiated. The compiler explains that her love for the Guardian's letters is what inspired her to start collecting them from old 'Bahá'í News', magazines and bulletins when she was a 'brand new' Bahá'í. Then during the Nine-Year Plan she was asked to make some international teaching trips and learned that such 'teachers are expected to know a little of everything'. This was the impetus behind her gathering the precious 'rescued letters' that at the time she felt were lost in those dusty stacked away magazines and bulletins, and then putting them together to be used especially on such trips. Then a Persian friend came to visit, a Counsellor*, and he saw the then small compilation. It would be interesting if his exact words could be recalled but in essence he said that "Bahá'ís cannot be selfish; when one does something like this, it must be shared, now this is no longer yours."
      Now friends this is yours!
*Masu'd Khamsí
Preface to the 1988 Revised Edition

While updating this reference work an effort was made to provide an accessible volume, including some revised, retranslated Tablets and letters which would be invaluable to those who have limited time to do their own research and to those with insufficient reference material available when it is needed.
      Considering that the Holy Text comprises more than 100 volumes and Tablets revealed by the Prophet/Founder of the Faith, Bahá'u'lláh, and to this Revelation have been added extensive writings and interpretations by 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi as well as special messages and letters from the Universal House of Justice, one can readily understand why it is impossible for one book to encompass such a bountiful supply of written guidance. Therefore, an attempt was made to collect from these primary sources quotations which address topics of known frequent concern to the Institutions, pioneers, travelling teachers and the individual Bahá'ís.
      This is a 'reference work' and not an attempt to provide a comprehensive treatment of every subject mentioned in its entirety. It will indicate to the reader that the subject has been addressed and, if needed, further information can be obtained from the Institutions.
      Again friends, this is yours!
Helen Bassett Hornby
Compiler



ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to the many wonderful friends Bahá'ís and non-Bahá'ís, from around the globe for your encouragement and beautiful expressions of gratitude for Lights of Guidance.
      A very special thanks to those who did a critical and content analysis of the work which was very beneficial to me and I hope the benefit will be reflected in this revised edition; for the cooperation of the various Institutions of the Faith; to the very efficient and esteemed Mrs. Mercedes Buckingham P., who indexed both editions; and to Mr. Frederick McClusky who helped to expedite this edition by taking on the responsibility of the Table of Contents; to those star servants of Bahá'u'lláh Mrs. Helen McClusky, Mrs. Mary Wolters and Mrs. Erma Hayden, who provided encouragement and assistance in too many ways to recount in this space; and to the Bahá'í Community of Ann Arbor and the Louhelen Bahá'í School.
      It is also a bounty as well as a privilege for me to thank the students of the first class of the Louhelen (Bahá'í) Residential College in Davison, Michigan who participated in assembling some chapters of Lights of Guidance, when their time permitted, as part of their extra-curricular activities on week-ends; and the participants in a class to discuss the book during Homecoming Week in September 1987, who assembled various topics under Laws. I certainly hope that Mr. and Mrs. Albert and Patti Fink, formerly of Ann Arbor, Michigan, realize that I can never forget the invaluable service they rendered over the years helping me in every way to get this work ready for future publication; and last but certainly not least, my gratitude and thanks to my husband Charles Hornby for assisting with a great deal of the research and paste-ups, filling me with vitamins to keep my health together and for assuming responsibility for the majority of the un-numbered everyday tasks one must perform. To all of you again, thank you for helping me to serve His Cause.

HBH
1988



MEMORIAL

Helen Bassett Hornby, the compiler/author of this monumental work, died October 17, 1994. We hope that this Third, 1994, Edition of Lights of Guidance will more nearly reflect her zeal for excellence and perfection, exemplified to her by the publications and guidance of the Universal House of Justice.
The Editors

FAX letter from the Universal House of Justice dated October 20, 1993:

National Spiritual Assembly of the
Bahá'ís of the United States

Our hearts are grieved by the news of the passing of Helen Hornby, steadfast, stalwart upholder of the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh. Her well nigh three decades of teaching and pioneering have left indelible traces in the Americas; her success in preparing an extensive compilation on Bahá'í subjects was a crowning achievement. We pray in the Holy Shrines that her noble soul may be richly rewarded in the Abhá Kingdom. Kindly extend our sympathy to her dear family.
Universal House of Justice

cc: National Assembly of Ecuador


      "... It is clear that life in this fast-fading world is as fleeting and inconstant as the morning wind, and this being so, how fortunate are the great who leave a good name behind them, and the memory of a lifetime spent in the pathway of the good pleasure of God.
"It is all one, if it be a throne
Or the bare ground under the open sky,
Where the pure soul lays him
Down to die."
('Abdu'l-Bahá: The Secret of Divine Civilization, p. 70)


BIBLIOGRAPHY

Published Works

Bahá'u'lláh:
Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976.
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976.
The Hidden Words of Bahá'u'lláh, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1963.
The Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Haifa, Bahá'í World Centre, 1992.
Synopsis and Codification of the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Haifa, Bahá'í World Centre, 1973.
Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh revealed after the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Haifa, Bahá'í World Centre, 1978.
The Báb:
Selections from the Writings of the Báb, Haifa, Bahá'í World Centre, 1971.
'Abdu'l-Bahá:
'Abdu'l-Bahá on Divine Philosophy, Boston, The Tudor Press, 1928.
'Abdu'l-Bahá in London, London, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1982.
Daily Lessons Received at 'Akká, January 1908, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1979.
Paris Talks, London, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1969.
The Promulgation of Universal Peace, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1982.
The Secret of Divine Civilization, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1975.
Selections from the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, Haifa, Bahá'í World Centre, 1978
Some Answered Questions, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1981.
Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá Abbas, Volumes I, II, III, New York, Bahá'í Publishing Committee, 1930 and 1940.
Tablets of the Divine Plan, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1977.
The Will and Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1971.
Shoghi Effendi:
The Advent of Divine Justice, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1984.
AROHANUI, Letters from Shoghi Effendi to New Zealand, Suva, Fiji Islands, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1982.
Bahá'í Administration, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1974.
Citadel of Faith, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1980.
Dawn of a New Day, Messages to India, 1923-1957, New Delhi, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1970.
God Passes By, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1987.
High Endeavors: Messages to Alaska, The National Spiritual Assembly of Alaska, 1976.
Japan Will Turn Ablaze, Part II, Japan, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1974.



Letters from the Guardian to Australia and New Zealand, 1923-1957, The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Australia, 1970.
Messages to America, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1947.
Messages to the Bahá'í World, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1971.
Messages to Canada, The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of Canada, 1965.
The Promised Day is Come, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1980.
The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1955.
The Universal House of Justice:
Messages from the Universal House of Justice, 1968-1973, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976.
Notes, addendum to The Kitab-i-Aqdas, Haifa, Bahá'í World Centre, 1992.
The Promise of World Peace, to the Peoples of the World, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1985.
Wellspring of Guidance, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1970.
Compilations:
The Bahá'í Revelation, England, The National Spiritual Assembly of the British Isles, 1955.
Bahá'í Education: A Compilation, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1978.
Bahá'í Funds: Contributions and Administration, Ontario, Bahá'í Canada Publications, 1974.
Bahá'í Marriage and Family Life, Ontario, Bahá'í Canada Publications, 1983.
Bahá'í Meetings: The Nineteen Day Feast, Wilmette, The Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1976.
Bahá'í Scriptures, New York, Bahá'í Publishing Committee, 1923.
Bahá'í World Faith, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1966.
Bahá'í Writings on Music, Oakham, England, The Bahá'í Publishing Trust, n/d.
Bahá'í Youth: A Compilation, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1973.
Centers of Bahá'í Learning, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1980.
Consultation: A Compilation, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1980,
The Continental Boards of Counsellors, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1981.
The Covenant and Administration, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1971.
The Establishment of the Universal House of Justice, Oakham, England, The Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1984.
The Functions and Institutions of the Continental Boards of Counsellors, Oakham, England, The Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1969.
Guidance for Youth, London, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1969.
The Individual and Teaching: Raising the Divine Call, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1977.
Lifeblood of the Cause, London, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1970.
The Local Spiritual Assembly, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1970.



The National Spiritual Assembly, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1972.
The Pattern of Bahá'í Life, London, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1973.
Peace­More Than an End to War, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1986
Political Non-Involvement and Obedience to Government, Bahá'í Publications Australia, 1979.
Politics, the Bahá'í Viewpoint. The National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United Kingdom, n/d.
Principles of Bahá'í Administration, London, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1973.
Quickeners of Mankind, National Spiritual Assembly of Canada, 1980.
A Special Measure of Love, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1974.
Spiritual Foundations: Prayer, Meditation, and the Devotional Attitude, Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1980.
Trustworthiness, London, The Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1987.
Women, Ontario, Bahá'í Canada Publications, 1986.
WOMEN­Equality and Development, Bahá'í World Centre, 1986.
Other Publications:
Bahá'u'lláh and the Nw Era (Esslemont), Wilmette, Bahá'í Publishing Trust, 1970.
Star of the West, Volumes 1 through 25, Chicago and Washington, D.C., 1909-1935.

Unpublished and prepublishment
compilations, memoranda and statements by or on behalf of
The Universal House of Justice

Extracts from Letters Written on Behalf of the Guardian on Various Aspects Of Age and Obligations, April 1978.
Extracts from the Bahá'í Writings on the Subject of Agriculture and Related Subjects, n/d.
The Serving of Alcoholic Drinks by Bahá'ís and Bahá'í Institutions, a compilation, sent with a letter to an individual believer January 31, 1982.
Compilation on alcohol and drugs, letter of International Teaching Centre to an individual believer, October 1978.
Auxiliary Board Members, a compilation, March 1969.
The Functions of the Auxiliary Boards for Propagation and Protection, a compilation, March 1969.
Biblical Questions, a memorandum, December 25, 1985.
Birth Control and Related Subjects, a compilation, n/d.
Extracts on Bahá'í Burial, given to the compiler in 1987.
Extracts from the Bahá'í Writings on Buddhism, Hinduism, and Related Subjects, n/d.
A Chaste and Holy Life, a compilation, September 1988.
Consultation: A Compilation, February 1978.
Conservation of the Earth's Resources, a compilation, October 1989.
Crisis and Victory, a compilation, October 1987.
Life After Death, a compilation, September 1973.


The Importance of Deepening our Knowledge and Understanding of the Faith, a compilation, January 1983.
Considerations Affecting Custody of Children and Provision of Financial Support in Cases of Divorce Between Bahá'ís not Adjuticated in Civil Law, January 5, 1983.
Extracts from the Bahá'í Teachings Discouraging Divorce, January 18, 1980.
Extracts from Letters Written by and on Behalf of thi Universal House of Justice on Grounds for Divorce­n/d.
The Process of Divorce, A Compilation of Extracts from Letters Written by or on Behalf of the Universal House of Justice, n/d.
Bahá'í Education, August 1976.
Extracts from the Guardian's Letters on the Spiritual Character of Bahá'í Elections, a compilation, November 11, 1971.
The Epochs of the Formative Age, January 1986.
Excellence in All Things, a compilation, November 1981.
Family Life, a compilation, January 1982.
A compilation on food of the future attached to a letter to an individual believer from the Universal House of Justice, November 21, 1982.
Compilation of Extracts from Letters Written by the Universal House of Justice, or on its Behalf, Concerning the Need for Care in Handling Bahá'í Funds, n/d.
Extracts from the Guardian's Letters on Bahá'í Funds and Contributions, January 1970.
The Continental Fund (A Compilation), September 29, 1981.
Development of the Local and National Funds of the Faith, Some Comments and Suggestions, a memorandum of the Universal House of Justice, August 7, 1985.
Giving to the Poor, a compilation, n/d.
Selections from the Writings on Some Aspects of Health and Healing, June 1974.
Selections from Bahá'í Writings on some Aspects of Health, Healing, Nutrition and Related Matters. April 1984.
Some Extracts from Letters Written on the Guardian's Behalf on Hinduism, Buddhism and Zorastrianism and Related Subjects, a compilation, n/d.
Extracts on Homosexuality, n/d.
Huqúqu'lláh, a compilation, June 1985.
Prohibition of Intoxicating Drinks, a compilation, April 1979.
The Virgin Birth of Jesus, a memorandum, October 29, 1985.
Selections from the Bahá'í Writings on Latin America, n/d.
Living the Life, November 1972.
The Local Spiritual Assembly, a compilation, August 1970.
Preserving Bahá'í Marriages, a memorandum, December 1990.
Requirements for Bahá'í Marriage, May 1982.
Bahá'í Meetings, a compilation, November 1976.
Meetings of the National Spiritual Assembly, the Importance of Attendance by the Entire Membership, a compilation, October 1980.
Compilation of Extracts from the Bahá'í Writings on Music, March 1, 1972.
Extracts from the Writings of Shoghi Effendi on the Importance and Role of Bahá'í News Letters, n/d.


The National Spiritual Assembly, a compilation. May 1972.
The Nineteen Day Feast, a compilation, August 28, 1989.
Notes on Obligatory Prayers and Ablutions, a compilation, n/d.
Extracts on Opposition, November 26, 1974.
Compilation on Association with Non-Bahá'í Organisations, n/d.
Peace, August 1985.
The Promise of World Peace, to the Peoples of the World, a statement, October 1985.
A Compilation of Extracts on Physical Education, n/d.
The Importance of Prayer, Meditation, and the Spiritual Attitude, a compilation, March 1980.
Prominent People, a compilation, September 1990.
Memorandum on Bahá'í Publishing, Ridván 1971.
Guidance from the Universal House of Justice on the Review of Non-Literature Items (Bahá'í Publishing), n/d.
Use of Radio and Television in Teaching, April 1, 1975.
A Compilation on Social and Economic Development, n/d.
Extracts Concerning Social and Economic Development, January 1985.
Spiritualism and Psychic Phenomena, a compilation, February 1974.
Extracts from the Guardian's Letters on Spiritualism, Reincarnation and Related Subjects, February 1970.
Bahá'í Summer Schools and Teaching Institutes, a compilation, April 1972.
Teaching and Commitment, a compilation n/d.
Statement of the Universal House of Justice Regarding Teaching the Faith, May 5 1982.
Extracts from the Writings of the Guardian or from Letters Written on His Behalf Regarding the Importance and Scope of the Teaching Work Among the Masses of Various Countries and Their Aboriginal and Indigenous Inhabitants, 1974.
Extracts from Letters of the Universal House of Justice and the Guardian Regarding Teaching the Masses, March 1968.
Teaching the Masses, a letter from the Universal House of Justice to all National Assemblies, July 13, 1964.
The Individual and Teaching, a compilation, March 3, 1977.
A Compilation on Services in Bahá'í Temples, August 12, 1977.
Guidelines for the Translation of Bahá'í Writings, from the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of Panama, July 16, 1979.
Statement of the Universal House of Justice Regarding Teaching the Faith, 1986.
Trustworthiness: A Cardinal Bahá'í Principle, January 1987.
Women, a compilation, January 1986.
Extracts from the Bahá'í Writings on the Subject of Writers and Writing, July 1980.
The Importance of Collecting and Safeguarding the Bahá'í Writings, October 1986.


INDEX

'Abdu'l-Bahá, 10, 1493, 1567, 1614-1630, 1779, 1802, 1829, 1830, 2089 photos of, 1623-1624 Ablutions, 1537-1539 Aborigines, 1775 Abortion, 982, 1154, 1155 Abraham, 1559, 1567, 1690 Abstaining (in voting), 168, 584 Abu'l Fazl, 1620 Adam, 1550 Adamic Cycle, 1683 Administration of Assemblies, see also Spiritual Assemblies authority 120-122, 130, 132 Auxiliary Board, 145-147 communication, 582, 140, 1972-1975 confidentiality, 123, 162-164 counsellers, 145 deepening of Assembly, 152 deprivation of voting rights, 178-202, 206-217, 471 diversity, 133, 137 Divine Institution, 125 duties of members, 167 election of members see Elections election of officers, 96-116 expulsion, 198 function and duties of Representatives, 117, 129 fundamentals of administration, 133, 135 justice, 118, 119 legal standing, 141 minimum standards, 149 obedience to N.S.A., 127 objectives, 149 prominent people, relations with, 150, 151, 1969-1971 quorum, 165, 166 responsibilities, 153 role of N.S.A., 126, 134, 136-138, 193 teaching, 118, 131, 142-144, 148 trust, 123 unity, 127, 128, 148 withdrawal, 203-205 Administrative Committees, 169 Administrative Order, 426 aristocratic form, 1-6, 426 autocratic, 2 petty details, 545 perfect form, 3 relationship of Cause to, 6 social order, 5 Administrative rights, 178-217 Administrators, 117-153 Adoption, 467-472, 1250-1252 Adultery, 1156-1159 Advertising, 1475 Afro-Americans, 1778 Agriculture, 1857-1859 Ahmad, Tablet of, 1608 Alcohol, 181, 253, 1151, 1159, 1171, 1188 'Alí, appointment of, 1665 Alimony, 1335-1337 America, 1 Ancestors, 699, 760, 761 Animals, 527, 893-895, 1006, 1110, 1111 Annulment, 1332 Apartheid, 1805 Appeals, 218-223, 230 Arbitration, 1061, 1076 Archives, 95, 97, 326-333 Ark, 1716 Arson, 1198 Art, 334, 2110, 337, 338 Artificial insemination, 973, 1188 Arts and Crafts, 1881 Assemblies, 7-51, 66, 548, 65, 72 Assistance, 406 Astrology, 1746-1752 Astronomy, 1285 Atheists, 1285 Atomic energy, 1585 Auctions, raffles, 849, 851, 852, 1201, 1202, 1204 Authors, 346-359 Automatic writing, 1753 Auxiliary Board, 1078, 1081, 1088, 1092, 1099, 1100, 1101, 1103-1127, 1129-1136 Ayyám-i-Há, 1023 Báb, the, 779, 1540-1549, 1567 Backbiting, 304-306, 309, 312-314, 325, 326 Bahá'í Faith, cycle, 1565, 1566 designation, 374 dispensation, 1540, 1557, 1558 funds, 835-891 responsibility of the Bahá'ís, 64, 331, 351, 835-842 symbol, 395 Bahá'í Institutions, 1031, 1046-1136 Definition of, 1045 Bahá'í Life. 376-385 Bahá'u'lláh, 779, 1550-1573, 1715, 1833 Baptism, 461-463, 466 Bayán, the, 1543, 1544 Begging, 409, 410, 2105, 2106 Betrothal; engagement, 1255-1261 Bible see Jesus Christ Bigamy, 1280 Birth control, 982, 1160-1170 Blacks, 1778-1798, 1809-1811, 1814, 1816 Buddha, 1684, 1696 Buddhism, 1696 Burial see Death Business Ventures, 853, 1874 By-elections, 174 By-laws, 224-231 Calamities, 422-459, 529 Calendar, 372, 373 Cancer, 978, 979 Capital punishment, 1199 Carmel, 423 Catastrophe, 422-459, 529 Cemeteries, 646, 648, 649, 652-656 Ceremonies, 460-466 Charity, 411-418, 1030, see also Begging Chastity, 1205-1220 Child abuse, 484, 487, 488, 509, 511, see also Paederasty Child out of wedlock, 206, 1217, 1218 Children, 262, 467-529, 762-774, 998-1002, 1515 adopted; orphans, 467-472 education of, 479-511, 997-1002 godparents; co-parenthood, 473-478 registration of, 262, 512-522 Chiropractic, 980 Chosen ones, 454, 457, 1674 Christ see Jesus Christ Christian holidays, 1029 Christianity, 1653, 1664, 1670 Churches, 530-542, 1383, 1387, 1389, 1398 Circumcision, 981 Class consciousness, 143, see Races Clergy, 534, 1383 Committees, 543-576 election of Officers, 522, 553 emergency committee, 562-565 membership, 558 structure; function, 554-558, 576 Communication, 1972-1975 Companionate marriage, 1269-1275 Confession, 589 Confucius, 1685 Congregational prayer, 1503 Consolidation, 2006-2012, 2025 Consultation, 59, 65, 168, 577-592, 734, 825 Continental Board of Counsellors, 1078, 1084, 1087-1102, 1118, 1124, 1128, 1129, 1132, 1134, 1135 Continental Fund, 873 Contraceptive agents 1169-1170, Conventions, delegates to, 52-55, 57-59, 61, 62, 65, 67, 74 national, 52-79 unit, 58-65 Co-parenting; godparents, 473-478 Copyright, 363 Courtesy, 1097 Courts, 1323, 1325, 1335, 1337, 1464, 1466 Covenant, 593-600, 1069, 1841 Covenant-breakers, 601-629, 1083, 1901 Crafts, 1881, 1901 Cremation, 666-670 Criminals, 187, 263, 1194-1200 Crises, 422-459 Criticism, 288, 290, 304-325 Cross, 718 Crucifixion, 1646, 1648 Daily obligations, 1526, 1538, 1913 Dancing, 336, 913, 914, 1898 Daniel, 1414, 1686 David, 1687 Day of the Ascension, 1619 Day of the Covenant, 1619 Day of rest-Friday, 372 Days, reckoning of, 1558 Dayspring, 1582 Death, 630-651 burial, 637-651 cemeteries, 652-656, 671-673 cremation, 642, 666-670 funerals, 657-665 life after death, 679-705 suicide, 674-678, 1200 tombstones, 899 wills, 630-636 Declaration, 232-266 Deepening, 249, 250, 1913-1933 Delegates see Conventions Democracy, 2 Designation of the Faith, 374 Diet, 1003-1017 Diplomas, 194 Disabled, 409, 2106, 2115 Discipline of children, 505-511 Disownment, 1244 Dispensation, 1557-1558, 1561-1562, 1565, 1629, 1664 Dispersion, 1962 Dissection, 986 Divine Plan, Tablets of, 1627, 1628, 1776 Divorce, 182, 1302-1338 Doctors see Physicians Dogma, 1573 Drama, 334-345 Dreams, 1739, 1745 Drugs, 253, 260, 1183-1191 Earmarked funds, 882-891 Economic development, 1846-1856, 1873, 1890, see also Social and Economic Development Economics, 1858, 1860-1872 Education, 706-721, 997, 1883, 1886-1890 academic, 706-713 physical, 997-1002 spiritual, 706-713 summer schools, 1891-1912 universities and colleges, 714-721 Education of children, 479-522, 752, 998-1002 Ego, 386-397 Elders, four and twenty, 1713 Elections, 21, 25-51, 63, 64, 80-94 absentee voting, 49 ballots, 82, 93, 94 by-elections, 48 by mail, 40 canvassing, 35 conditions beyond control, 50 confidentiality, 44 electoral procedure, 32 intrigue, 37 joint declaration, 18, 19, 21 minorities, 83-85 nominations, 31-34, 39 personalities, 33, 36 political, 1443 quorum, 41 re-voting, 85 secret ballot, 45 tellers, 80, 81 tie votes, 47, 85-87, 90 unity, 46 voting for oneself, 43 Embracing; kissing, 1438 Emerson, 1719, 1723 Endowments, 722-728, 1054 Enemies of the Cause, 612, 616, 627 Engagement, betrothal, 1255-1261 Enrollment, 232-266 Equality, 1865, 1866 Equality of men and women, 492 Esperanto, 1140, 1142 Ethics, 1905 Euthanasia, 982, 985, 987 Evil, 1730-1734, 1738, 1768-1770, 1772 Evil Spirits, 1731-1733 Example, 380, 394 Ex-communication, 14, 140, 198, 605-612, 621, 623, 1083 Existence, 1697, 1699 Family, 729-774 ancestors, 760, 761 family relationships, 729-747 husband and wife, 748-759, 1338, 1381 parents and children, 762-774 Fasting, 775-784 Fear, 785-795 Fear of God, 785, 789 Feast, Nineteen Day, 796-827 nature and function, 796-811 program, 817-827 time of, 812-816 Films, 340-341 Financial Assistance, 411, 417, 418-420, 1990-1994 Firesides, 825-834 Flood, 1716 Food, 1003-1017 Foreign service, 1457 Fourth dimension, 1736 Freemasonry, 1387-1391 Fund, 528, 835-891, 1108, 1976 earmarked funds, 882-891 eligibility, 843-856 responsibility of Bahá'ís, 835-842 treasurer, 857-881 Funerals, 657-665 Gambling, 852, 1201-1204 Games, playing of, 1002 Genesis, 1656, 1658 Gifts, 915 Gnostics 1724 Goals, 149, 159 God, 1553, 1574, 1583 Godparents; co-parenting, 473-478 Gold, 1580 Gossip, 211, 304-325 Government, 1440-1471, 2071 Government employees 1472-1478 Grace, 1501 Greatest Name, 892-911, 925, 1369, 1538, 1539, 1553, 1930 reciting daily, 905, 1538, 1539 Growth of the Faith, 278 Guardianship, 1046-1058 Guidance, 424, 1482, 1483, 1508, 1519 Handicapped see Disabled, Hands of the Cause, 621-623, 1078-1086, 1094 Hazíratu'l-Quds, 912-922 Healing, 923-1017, 1506, 1507 Health, 923-1017 protection of, 291 Hearing, 1825 Hearsay, 1433, 1435-1437 Heaven, 679-705 Hell, 703 Heroism, 401, 408, 1939 Hidden Words, 1601, 1631-1635 Hindu, 1692, 1693, 1696, 1773 History, 1910 Holy days, 1018-1030, 2070 Homosexuality, 185, 1221-1230 Horoscopes, 1748 Huqúqu'lláh, 1031-1044 Husayn see Imim Husayn Hypnotism, 976, 977, 1762 Humility, 120, 386-397, 718 Illiteracy, 2013, 2014 Imám Husayn, 1567, 1665, 1673 Immorality, 185, 186, 188, 189, 261, 377, 1221, 1223, 1224, 1230, 1275, see also Lying. Immortality, 679-705 Inactive believers, 293-303 Incorporation, 231 India, 1692 Indians, American, 1576, 1775-1778, 1796, 1802, 1803, 2029 Individual, 273, 792, 2018, 2020 Infallibility, 1050, 1055, 1064, 1065, 1572, 1844 Inheritance, 630-632, 634-636, 1859, 2106 Institutes, 1908-1912 Institutions, 1045-1136 definition, 1036, 1045, 1046 Intercalary Days, 814 Intercession, 1606 Intermarriage, 1288, 1788, 1803, 1816 International Executive, 1077 International Fund, 872, 882 International Teaching Centre, 1087 Interpretation, 1052, 1053, 1056, 1062, 1064, 1066 Intrigue, 37 Intuition, 1735, 1741, 1743, 1745, 1754 Íqán, 1544 Ishmael, 1688 Islám, 1653, 1661-1673, 1903, 1904 Israel, 1674-1682 Japanese, 1796 Jerusalem, 1675 Jesse, 1559 Jesus Christ, 542, 779, 1560, 1564, 1567, 1572, 1635-1640, 1642-1650, 1652, 1653, 1660, 1669, 1671, 1715, 1725, 2053, 2104. Jewish Faith, 535, 1559, 1817-1819, see also Israel Jews, destiny, 1677, 1681 John, 1578 John the Baptist, 1567 Joint Declaration, 18, 19, 21 Joseph, 1567, 1611, 1665 Joseph Smith, 1611, 1727, 1728, 1753 Joshua, 1678 Judah, 1679 Judaism, 1674-1682 Judas Iscariot, 1377 Judgment Day, 1693 Justice, 118-19, 121, 693 Kindness to animals see Animals Kings, 1470 Kissing; embracing, 1438 Kitáb-i-Aqdas, 821, 1145, 1148, 1198, 1256, 1978, 2109 Kitáb-i-Íqán, 1541, 1544, 1580, 1602, 1639 Koran see Qur'án Krishna, 1696 Language, 1137-1142 Persian, 1143 Lao-Tse, 1694 Laws, 3, 1144-1338 Lesser Peace, 1047, 1411, 1412, 1425, 1428, 1430 Library, 628 Life after death, 679-705 Life support, 987 Lot, 1689 Lottery, 1201 Love, 1339-1360 Loyalty, 276 Lying, 304-325, 2043 Manifestations of God, 469-498 Marriage, 190, 199, 208, 748-759, 1263, 1301 common law, 1269-1275 consumation of, 1299 divine institution, 1262 engagement; betrothal, 516, 1255-1261 foundation of society, 1224, 1236, 1263 knowledge of character, 1231-1232 moral duty, 167 parental consent, 1231, 1235 responsibility for, 1231 trial marriage, 1269 Marriage Tablet, 1291 Martyrs, 1982 Mary, 1641, 1643 Mary Magdalene, 2104 Mashriqu'l-Adhkár, 1884, 2051-2071 Masons, 1387-1391 Mass teaching, 2002-2036 Masturbation, 1220 Materialism, see Calamities Maturity, 516 Medical science, 972-996 Meditation, 1479-1520, 1836-1838 Meetings, 154-169, 298, 577-592, 1518 Men of Justice, 2076 Mental illness, 193-195, 253, 259, 260, 947-957 Mental tests, 450 Mercy, 121 Mercy killing, see Euthanasia Military service, 1351-1359 Minorities, 1775-1819 Minorities in America Aboriginals, 1775 Afro-Americans, 1778-1790, 1793, 1809-1811, 1814, 1816 Amerindians, 1778 Czechoslovakians, 1806 Chinese, 1796 Indians, 1776, 1777, 1802, 2029 Italians, 1806 Japanese, 1796 Jews, 1806, 1817, 1818 Mexicans, 1796 Polish, 1806 Russians, 1806 Miracles, 1637, 1638, 1649, 1663, 1674 Moderation, 996 Monogamy, 1156-1159 Morality, 1221, 1905, see also Chastity; Immorality; Lying Moral responsibility, 320 Mormons, 1727-1729 Moses, 779, 1552, 1567, 2053 Moslems, see Muslims Most Great Peace, 1430 Muhammad, 779, 1572, 1661-1662, 1664, 1669, 1671-1672 Music, 1360-1371 Muslims, 1405, 1407-1410, 1592, 2030 National Convention, 52-79 attendance, 61 Auxiliary Board Members, 77, 78, 90-92 Continental Board of Counsellors, 78, 79 convening of, 69 delegates, 53-55 consultation, 53, 59, 65, 66, 74 election, 53-55 replacement, 57 reports, 95 voting, 67-68 details of, 58 election of NSA, 70, 72 expenses of delegates, 62 function, advisory, 52 Hands of the Cause, 78 Nat'l Teaching Conference, 71 non-delegates, 75 renewal of NSA, 63, 64 status of NSA, 60 voting list, 56 workshops, 73 Naw-Rúz, 1025-1028 Negroes see Minorities in America; Afro-Americans New believers, 232-266, 1924 Nine-pointed star, 671 Nineteen Day Feast see Feast, Nineteen Day Noah, 1659 Non-Bahá'í Organizations, 1384-1404 Nuclear disarmament, 1427 Number Nine, 1372-1377 Number Thirteen, 1377 Numerology, 1751, 1752, 1757 Nutrition, 1003-1017 Oaths, 1464 Obedience, 276, 281-284, 289, 291, 1144, 1150 Obedience to government, 1453-1456, 1458, 1462, 1463, 1465 Obligatory prayer, 1521-1539 Officers of assemblies, 96-116 absentee members, 101 Chairman, 102 dismissal of officers, 116 election, 96-101 full-time service, 114 minutes, 110 National secretary, 104-109 resignation, 115, 170-173 Secretary, 104, 111 temporary officers, 101 Treasurer, 112, 113 Vice-chairman 103 Oneness of mankind, 1589, 1590 Opium see Drugs Opposition, 1378-1383, 1394 Organizations, 1384-1404 Orientals, 1405-1410 Orphans, 467-472 Pacifists, Bahá'í's are not, 1429 Paederasty, 1224 Palestine see Israel Parental consent, 208, 469, 1231-1254 Peace, 1411-1430, 2089-2092, 2096, 2097, 2101, 2104, see also Lesser Peace; Most Great Peace Persecution, 215 Persians, 1257, 1405, 1944, 1945, 1948 Personalities, 36, 142 Peter, 542, 1643, 1650 Philosophers, Greek, 1682 Photographs, 1623, 1624 Physical Education, 997-1002 Physicians, 923, 926, 927, 930, 938, 939, 945, 952, 953, 956, 958-971, 989 Physiognomy, 1757 Pilgrims' notes, 1431-1439 Pioneers, pioneering 773, 774, 1934-1966 Planets, 1581, 1594 Pledge forms, 874 Politics, 37, 183, 184, 1440-1478, 1805 Poor, 417, 419-421, 2015 Pork, 1012 Possession, 1738, 1753 Prayer, 1479-1539, 1621, 1622, 1835, 1836, 1840, 1845 congregational for dead, 1502, 1504 five steps of, 1510 for moments of danger, 1520 indispensable, 1845 meditation and, 1519 Obligatory 1521-1527, 1529-1539 ablutions for, 1538 physical symbol of inner reality, 1523 quotations from, 1497 repitition, 1517, 1527 specific time for, 1498 Prayer for the dead, 1504 Pre-existence, see Existence Prejudice, 1347, 1794-1799, 1801, 1804, 1807, 1810, 1812, 1813, 1816, 2156 Aboriginals, 1775 Afro-Americans, 1778 Amerindians, 1778 Negroes, 1779-1816 Prisoners, 251, 263, 711, 1194-1199 Proclamation, 1967-1971 Profit sharing, 1869 Projects, 1873-1879 Promiscuity, see Adultery; Chastity; Homosexuality; Immorality; Paederasty Propagation, 1103-1105, 1114 Property maintenance, 916, 917 Prophecy/Prophets, 1540-1613, 1683-1729 Protection, 601-629, 1063, 1070, 1082, 1083, 1103-1105, 1112, 1132 Psychiatry, 951-957 Psychic arts, 1735, 1768-1774 Psychic phenomena, 1730-1774 Psychic powers, 1735 Psychotherapy, 953 Publications, 360-371 Publicity, 349-351 Punishment, 1148, 1149 Purgation, 447 Pyramids, 1764, 1765 Qur'án, 1652, 1666, 1667, 1672, 1688, 1904 Races, 1775-1819 aboriginal inhabitants, 1775 coloured, 1798 down-trodden races, 1798 Radio, 1972-1976 reading prayers on, 1514 Raffles, 852, 1202, 1204 Reading the Writings, 1835, 1840, 1913 Reformation, 1653 Registration of children, 512-522 Reincarnation, 1820-1827 Relics, 1625, 1711 Religion, 1543, 1683-1729 Removal from membership roster, 1543 Renaissance, the, 1664 Resignations, 88, 115, see also Spiritual Assemblies Resurrection, 1593 Restoration of rights, 208 Retirement, 2114, 2115 Reverence, 1828-1833 Reviews, 349, 350, 352, 353, 359 Ringstone emblems, 907-911 Rituals, 1573 Sabeans, 1693, 1694 Schools, 62, 73, 855, 914, 1886-1907 Science, 974, 975, 1584, 1881, 2110 Secret ballot, 44, 45 Secret societies, 192, 1388, 1991 Self, 386-397, see also Ego Self-consciousness, 392 Self-defense, 398-400 Self-sacrifice, 401-408 Service, 401-408, 967 Seven Valleys, 1613 Sex education, 358, 1205, 1220 Sexual relations see Family; Morality; Immorality; Homosexuality; Kissing; embracing Sharing, 1863 Sight, 1825 Simplicity, 460 Sin, 996, 2052 Slander, 304-325 Sleep, 990 Smith, Joseph see Joseph Smith, Smoking see Tobacco Social and economic development, 1846-1856, 1873-1890 Tutorial schools, 1886-1890 Social order, 5 Soul, 385, 679-705 Spiritists see Spiritualists Spiritual Assemblies, 12, 117-153, 626 abstention in voting, 168, 584 attendance, 175, 176 authority, 16 by-election, 174 criticism, 285, 288, 290 defender, 10 dissolution, 22, 23 duties of members, 167 elections, 25-51, 174 establishments, 7, 8 formation, 17-29, 91, 92 formation in prison, 25 future, 11 inactive believers, 295-297, 301 joint declaration, 18, 19, 21 jurisdiction, 15, 24 loyalty to government, 16 meetings, 154, 155, 159-161 minutes of, 163 purpose of, 9 qualifications of members, 26, 27, 30 quality, 30 quorum, 166 relationship of believers to, 267, 582 residence, 20 resignation, 115, 170, 171-173, 177 sanctions, 155, 176, 178-181, 195-205 strengthening, 13 teaching, 14, 118, 156, 157 unity in, 587 voting, 169, 585, 586 voting lists, 293, 294, 296, 300, 302, 303 will of the majority, 158 Spiritual growth, 390-394, 1835, 1836, 1839-1841, 1844, 1845 Spiritual healing, 923-945 Spiritual laws, 3, 1147 Spiritualists, 1399, 1756, 1760, 1762 Spirituality/reverence, 1828-1845 Star, five pointed, 375 Stars, 1718, 1746-1750, 1752, 1761 State religion, 11 Sterilization see Birth Control Strikes, 1404, 2121 Suffering tests 2040-41, 2048-49, see also Tests Suicide see Death Summer schools, 1891-1912 Superstition, 1377, 1484, 1519, 1731, 1747, 1750 Support, child, 1336-1337 Supreme Tribunal, 1074-1077 Sura of the Sun, 1605 Surrogate mothers, 973, 1168 Swedenborg, Emanuel, 1719-1722 'Abdu'l-Bahá's praise for, 1721 Symbol of the Faith, 375 Synagogues, 535, 1387, 1389 Table writing, 1755 Tablet of Ahmad, 1608 Tablet of the Holy Mariner, 1609 Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh to Presidents of the Americas, 1610 Taxes, 540, 878, 1031-1044 Teachers, 1134, 1988-2001 Teaching, 14, 118, 156, 157, 241-243, 529, 554, 555, 557, 566-570, 572, 828-834 Telepathy, 1758 Temples, 1884, 2051-2071 Tests, 247, 426, 2037-2050 Theosophists, 1392 Tobacco, 1189-1193 Trade unions, 1403, 2121 Translations, 348, 361, 365, 367-370, 371 Transplants, 983, 984 Transsexuality, 1222 Treasurer, 857-881 Turner, Robert, first Negro Bahá'í, 1779 Tutorial schools, 1886-1890 Uniform adoption law, 1250-1252 Unions, see Trade Unions United Nations, 1400 Unity, 587, 1108, 1339-1350, 1388, 1705, 1706 Universal House of Justice, 529, 1051, 1053, 1059-1073 Universities, 714-721 Vaccination, 992 Verities of the Faith, 1612 Virgin birth, 1637, 1639, 1641 Visions, 1740-1742, 1745 Vivisection, 993-995 Voting, 1443, 1447 Voting rights, 178-217, 803, 1443, 1448 Wages, 1867 War, how to eliminate, 1382 Wars, see Calamities; Military Service Wealth, 839, 844, 1860, 1863, 1882 Weapons, 399-400, 1427 Weddings, 913 see Marriage Will and Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá, 1921-1922 Wills, personal, 630-636 Wilson, President, 1471 Withdrawal, 204, 296, 300, 302 Women, 2072-2104 Work, 410, 1870, 2105-2120 Workshop, 73 World Center, 140, 430 World Crisis, 422-459, 1359 World Government Organization, 1074-1077 World Order, 11, 1388 Worship in the Temple, 2058-2066 Youth, 573, 574, 1001, 1206, 1213, 1304 Zoroaster, 1690, 1691, 1696