AN INDIVIDUAL’S DIGEST OF

SHOGHI EFFENDI’S

THE
ADVENT
OF

DIVINE JUSTICE
Preface

This booklet is my personal summary and digest of the

magnificent and emotionally stirring book, The Advent of
Divine Justice.

No matter how many times it is read, one can never stop

gaining so much insight, wisdom and guidance from The
Advent of Divine Justice, written in 1938, by Shoghi Effendi.
Consequently, for personal spiritual development, it was
decided to summarise the book in my own words in order to
reflect and deepen on the writings.

It must be clearly understood that this booklet is a

personal undertaking and has in no wise been
authorised by the Bahá'í Faith (www.Bahai.org) nor
the Universal House of Justice.

It is the sincere hope that this digest will be enough to entice

the reader to purchase and read the actual original book
which will in no doubt leave a lasting memory.

anousha vahdaty

ISBN 0-87743-228-7 (pocketsize)

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1. Thank you to all the elected national representatives for
their devotion to the Seven Year Plan which is being
implemented with precision and efficiency.
2. It is incredible how the national representatives, the
believers and their agencies have managed to succeed
together cohesively in contrast to the conflict elements
of present-day.
3. Whoever is working for the Faith must feel eternally
grateful and derive immense hope and courage from
their commitment. The believers must seize every
opportunity to further the cause and the Order.
4. The recurrent world crises which are afflicting the human
race must of necessity continue. How can the world
upheaval deranging the social, the religious, the cultural,
the political and the economical equilibrium, on a scale
so vast, fail to produce any repercussions on the Faith of
such tender age whose teachings have a direct and vital
bearing on each of these spheres of human life and
conduct?
5. Little wonder, therefore, if the believers find themselves
affected by the impact of these world-shaking forces.
Little wonder if they find their beliefs, institutions,
motives and authority jeopardised and rejected.
6. In the heart of European continent a community
destined to radiate the splendour of the Faith on
countries that surround it, has had its purpose restricted.
Alas, its institutions are dissolved, its literature banned
and its meetings suspended.
7. In central Asia in the city of having been chosen by
‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the home of the first Mashriqu’l-Adhkár

2
 (Dawning Place of God’s Paradise) of the Bahá’í world,
finds itself at the mercy forces which, alarmed by the
rising power of the Faith, are now trying to reduce its
importance. Its Temple, has been confiscated, its
Assemblies disbanded, its chief promoters deported and
a few of its most enthusiastic supporters imprisoned.
8. In the land of its birth Iran hailed as the “mother of the
world” and the “dayspring of the joy of mankind” by
Bahá’u’lláh, the civil authority which is undivorced from
the corrupt clergy, pursues its campaign of repression
against the devotees of the Faith and which has
unsuccessfully tried to suppress for over a century.
Despite the Faith which numerically outnumbers either
the Christian, the Jewish, or the Zoroastrian Faiths in that
land, it is not allowed to practice at all, in any way, its
rights and principles.
9. And now in the Holy Land the never-centre of the Faith,
racial animosity interferes with the flow of pilgrims and
suspends various projects that had been initiated to
preserve and extend the areas surrounding the scared
Spots. The resident believers have been mistreated in
many was to a large scale. However, despite all this,
miraculously the preservation of the Bahá’í Holy Places,
have been vouchsafed.
10. Torn from all ends, the world finds itself confronted by
the rising fortunes of an infant Faith. Despite its infancy,
the Faith has fortunately managed to retreat before the
onrushing forces of violence and disorder to which
humanity falling a victim. As the world discord starts to
grow, the limbs and organs of the Faith appear to have
been afflicted with the crippling influences that now hold
in their grip the whole of the civilized world.

3
11. Thus, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá says, “The darkness of error that has
enveloped the East and the West is, in this most great
cycle, battling with the light of Divine Guidance. Its
swords and its spears are very sharp and pointed; its
army keenly bloodthirsty.” Written in another passage,
“This day the powers of all the leaders of religion are
directed towards the dispersion of the congregation of
the All-Merciful, and the shattering of the Divine Edifice.
The hosts of the world, whether material, cultural or
political are from every side launching their assault, for
the Cause is great, very great. Its greatness is, in this day,
clear and manifest to men’s eyes.”
12. The one chief remaining fortress is the blessed
community of the followers of the Most Great Name in
the – North American – continent. By its works, and
through the protection vouchsafed to it by an almighty
Providence, this distinguished member bids fair to be
universally regarded as the cradle and stronghold of that
future New World Order.
13. For anyone thinking to belittle the unique station of
North American ponder on the words of Abdu’l-Bahá,
“The continent of America, is, in the eyes of the one true
God, the land wherein the splendours of His light shall be
revealed, where the mysteries of His Faith shall be
unveiled, where the righteous will abide, and the free
assemble.”
14. Already the believers of North American continent has,
despite the prevailing gloom, shown its capacity to be the
torchbearer of that light, the exponent of that
righteousness and the sanctuary of that freedom.

4
15. The American community, therefore, must usher in that
promised World Order. Whilst its sister communities are
subject to severe adversity, this community, preserved
by the omnipotent Ordainer and deriving continual
sustenance from the mandate with which the Tablets of
the Divine Plan have invested it, is now busily laying the
foundations of those institutions which are to herald the
approach of the Age destined to witness the rise of the
World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
16. The American community, is negligible in size and lacks
so many resources such as ignorant of the beliefs,
concepts and habits of the people from which the
spiritual Founder have sprung, or unfamiliar with the
languages in which the sacred Books were originally
revealed. This community has the celestial potency which
an all-loving Master has endowed upon it and has lent an
impetus to further the Cause which the combined
achievements of its coreligionists in the West have failed
to rival.
17. No other community can claim the achievements of the
Americans in pursuit of the advancement of the Faith such as
the establishment of those initial schools which will evolve
into powerful centres of Bahá’í learning. The members of this
community have won the eternal distinction of being the first
to raise the call of Yá Bahá'u'l-Abhá (O Glory of the Most
Glorious) throughout the world, e.g. provided funds used for
translation and publication the sacred literature, shared the
effort to guard the holy shrines and acquisition of the future
sites for international institutions, and ordained, long before
its sister communities, recognition by both the federal and
state authorities of its Spiritual Assemblies and national
endowments.

5
18. Such as matchless and brilliant record of service,
extending over a period of twenty years, will vindicate its
right to be acclaimed as the chief creator and champion
of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
19. And all this is just the beginning and reminiscent, in some
aspects, of the exploits of the dawn-breakers.
Summary 1-19
Europe, Asia, Iran, the Holy Land and the world are torn from
all ends with discord and disorder. The Bahá’í Faith, despite
its infancy, has managed to retreat the ongoing violence. The
powerful leaders from all corners of the world, whether
religious, cultural, material or political, are launching their
assault and preventing the Faith from developing. The one
remaining saviour is North America.
No one should dare to belittle North American believers for
their achievements and station. The American community
must therefore work hard to lay down the foundations for
the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh. Against all odds, such as, lack
of resources or unfamiliarity with the Persian language with
which the sacred books were written, this community has the
celestial potency which God has endowed upon it. No other
community can claim the achievements of the Americans in
furthering and expanding the Faith, and thus, this matchless
service has acclaimed the Americans as the chief creator and
champion of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh.
20. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá called them to establish the Administrative
Order first. The next task of erecting the superstructure
of an edifice the cornerstone of which ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Himself had laid. And when that feat was achieved,
launching the Seven Year Plan as the first and practical
step towards the mission prescribed in the Tablets.

6
21. The opening of the second century of the Bahá’í era
signals the start of plans far-reaching than any as yet
conceived. The Plan should be viewed only as the
beginning.
22. After the completion of the present Plan, the North
American community must diffuse numbers over the
entire surface of the New World (North and South
American). Not until they have achieved the rise of
independent centres can they be satisfied to have
achieved their obligations.
23. With their inter-American tasks virtually discharged, their
intercontinental mission enters upon its most glorious
and decisive phase. Abdu’l-Bahá has written, “The
moment this Divine Message is carried forward by the
American believers from the shores of America and is
propagated through the continents of Europe, of Asia, of
Africa and of Australasia, and as far as the islands of the
Pacific, this community will find itself securely established
upon the throne of an everlasting dominion.”
24. During the advancement the events will be in a state of
flux and out of the turmoil and tribulations opportunities
undreamt of will be born that will enable them to further
the New World Order.
25. Nor should any opportunities of a totally different order
be allowed to pass unnoticed in which the American
Bahá’ís must play their role to execute. For instance: The
election of the International House of Justice and its
establishment in the Holy Land; the erection of the first
Mashriqu’l-Adhkár of the West and outskirts of the city
of Tehran; the saving of Bahá’ís in such countries as
Persia, Iraq and Egypt; and, last but not least, the issues,

7
 adversities and obstacles that must be addressed
eventually leading to the emergence of the worldwide
Bahá’í Commonwealth.
26. I (Shoghi Effendi) feels confident that they (the
Americans) will embrace these opportunities with zeal to
confirm their title and rank as the champion-builders of
the mightiest institutions of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh.
27. Though your journey may appear hard and arduous,
though restricted in numbers, experience and resources,
though faced with raised up enemies, the Hosts which, if
you persevere, must, as promised, rush forth to your aid,
will, in the end, enable you to vanquish and conquer any
challenge put before you.
28. Great as is my love for you, I must utter a word of
warning. The glowing tributes paid to the American
believers, must, under no circumstances, be confused
with the characteristics and nature of the people from
which God has raised them up. A sharp distinction
between that community and that people must be made
and fearlessly upheld if we wish to give recognition to the
power of the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh. Otherwise, the
supreme function of His Revelation, which is none other
than the calling into being of a new race of men, will
remain wholly unrecognised and completely obscured.
29. How often have the Prophets of God, not excluding
Bahá’u’lláh Himself, chosen to appear in countries and
amidst peoples at a time when they were either fast
declining or had already touched the lowest depths of
moral and spiritual degradation. The appalling misery to
which the Israelites had sunk under the tyrannical rule of
the Pharaohs, in the days preceding their exodus from

8
 Egypt under the leadership of Moses; the decline that
had set in the religious, the cultural and the moral life of
the Jewish people, at the time of the appearance of Jesus
Christ; the barbaric nature and immorality of the tribes of
Arabia when Muhammad arose to proclaim His Message
in their midst; the indescribable state of decadence in
both the civil and religious life of Persia at the hour of the
Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh – all demonstrate this basic
fact. To claim that the innate worthiness, the high moral
standard, the political aptitude of any race or nation is
the reason for the appearance in its midst of any of these
Divine Luminaries would be an absolute distortion of
historical facts.
30. How great then must be the challenge of those such
races and nations having responded to the call which
these Prophets have raised as a direct consequence of its
crying needs. For it is under such circumstances that the
Prophets have raised the people from depths of misery
and empowered them to transmit in through to other
races and nations the saving grace of their Revelation.
31. In this light, it must be borne in mind, that the primary
reason why the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh chose to appear in
Persia because the people within are regarded by
Bahá’u’lláh as one of the most backward, most cowardly
and most perverse so as to turn them into a race of
heroes. Conversely, to have appeared among a nation
which by its intrinsic worth and high attainments seemed
to warrant the privilege of such a Revelation would in the
eyes of an unbelieving world greatly reduce the efficacy
of that Message.
32. This principle must also apply to the country regarded as
the cradle of the World Order of Bahá’u’lláh (i.e. Persia).

9
 Let not therefore the people who are to participate in the
birth of that world civilization imagine for a moment that
for some mysterious purpose or by inherent excellence
Bahá’u’lláh has chosen to confer upon their country and
people so great a distinction. It is precisely for this reason
that unfortunately misunderstanding has engendered
that the Author of their Faith and the Centre of His
Covenant have singled it out to become the standard-
bearer of the New World Order envisaged in their
writings. (Basically, it is, for example, why certain Muslim
people think that they have been singled out by God and
chosen as a superior race to set the standard for the New
World Order.) It is because of this that Bahá’u’lláh can
demonstrate to the heedless generation His almighty
power and raise up people immersed in a sea of
materialism and steer them towards embracing essential
virtues in calling into being the World Order such as the
contribution towards building the Universal House of
Justice.
33. Observations such as these, however depressing, must
not be permitted to blind us of high intelligence, of
youthfulness, of unbounded initiative which the nation
(Persia) so clearly displays and which are being reflected
by the believers within it. Upon these virtues and
qualities must the community lay a firm foundation for
the country’s future role in ushering in the Golden Age of
the Cause of Bahá’u’lláh.
34. How important therefore it is for the American believers
to weed out those faults, habits and tendencies which
they have inherited from their own nation and cultivate
patiently and prayerfully those distinct qualities and
virtues. In view of the restricted size of their community,

10
 rather than trying to affect the great mass of their
countrymen, instead focus their attention on their own
selves, their own weaknesses and their own deeds to be
better equipped in readiness to help their fellow-citizens
filled with evil tendencies. Nor must they overlook that
the World Order, which they are assisting to build, can
never be established unless they cleanse themselves of
many ills that now afflict it.
35. Surveying as a whole the most pressing needs I will
attempt to highlight the serious deficiencies that need
urgent attention of the entire body of the American
believers of all ages. Although building the
Administration is so critical, no less urgent and vital are
continual self-examination and heart-searching on their
part in fear that their value may be impaired.
36. Of these spiritual qualities of success that constitute the
bedrock on which the Administration will be built, certain
qualities stand out, which the American Bahá’ís will do
well to ponder. These requirements are: 1) a high sense
of moral decency in their social and administrative
activities; 2) absolute chastity in their individual lives; and
3) complete freedom from prejudice in their dealings
with peoples of a different race, class, creed or colour.
37. The first is specially directed to their elected
representatives, whether local, regional or national who
are shouldering the chief responsibility in laying the
foundation for the Universal House of Justice. The second
is mainly concerned with the Bahá’í youth who can
contribute so decisively to the future orientation of the
Faith’s destiny. The third must be the chief concern of all
and sundry members of the Bahá’í community without
exception.

11
38. A moral conduct, a pure and holy life, unclouded by the
vices, the false standards and the indecencies free of
prejudice must be adopted and promoted by the
American believers if they are to succeed in their
endeavours.

Summary 20-38
Abdu’l-Bahá asked the American believers to focus on three
goals: first, to establish the Administrative Order; second, to
erect the Temple in Illinois; and third, to launch the Seven
Year Plan, and after its completion to diffuse number of
believers all over the New World to establish independent
centres. Then follows their intercontinental mission through
continents of Europe, Asia, Africa and Australasia without
ignoring any other opportunities as they arise. The Americans
believers will face many difficulties, however, God will help
them to achieve their mission.
Under no circumstance should the American community brag
about this privilege and think that they are special in any
way, as this will undermine the Faith. Remember, all the
Prophets of God appeared in countries which were in dire
straits and in need of recuperation. To claim that the high
worthiness of any race or nation was the reason for the
appearance of the Prophets in their country is gravely
mistaken. This is why the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh appeared in
Iran at a time when the country was in chaos. That’s why it is
so important that the American believes cleanse themselves
of many ills that now afflict them and continue their
dedication to personal development to include moral
decency, chastity and freedom from prejudice.

12
39. The righteousness of conduct as mentioned above must
distinguish every phase of the development. Bahá’u’lláh
himself said that: it is important to adopt high morals and
ethics; you must not demean yourself to look at money
and materialistic goods even if the world was covered in
silver and gold and by not doing so you will be endowed
with potency and your words with attraction; and you
will refuse to unlawfully seize the property of your
neighbour even if you were dying of hunger. The purpose
of God is to summon all mankind to become wholly
ethical and moral, and to resign to the will of God. His
object is to array every man with a saintly character. One
righteous act can elevate beyond the heaven of heavens.
That which can insure the victory of God on earth are His
people who are righteous and whose good character will
be diffused throughout the world. Fairness is the most
fundamental among human virtues. 2.5 pages dedicated
from the words of Bahá’u’lláh to say this: develop your
character to become righteous and virtuous.
40. Abdu’l-Bahá echoes what Bahá’u’lláh says above. If any
of you enter a city, he should become centre of
attraction by reason of his sincerity, faithfulness and
love, honesty and fidelity, truthfulness and loving-
kindness towards humankind, so people say: ‘This man is
unquestionably a Bahá’í for his manners, his behaviour,
his conduct, his morals and his nature’. Not until you
have attained this station can you say that you have been
faithful to the Covenant and Testament of God. The most
vital duty is to purify you character, to correct your
manners and improve your conduct. Truthfulness is the
foundation of all virtues – without which progress in all
God’s worlds is impossible for any soul. When this holy

13
 attribute is established, all divine qualities will also be
acquired.
41. All such virtues must be reflected in the business
dealings, in domestic lives, in manners of employment, in
service, and in the future represent the government.
Incidentally, we are not permitted to be involved in any
political activity in whatever capacity. However, accept
and recognise your enemy’s merits and discharge any
obligation that you may have towards him.
42. Bahá’u’lláh said that: These oppressions that have
befallen the world are preparing it for the Most Great
Justice. The purpose of justice is the appearance of unity
among men. Everything depends on it. The thing that
trains the world is Justice which is held by two pillars:
reward and punishment. These two pillars are the
sources of life to the world. Justice and equity (fairness)
are two guardians for the protection of man. The world is
in turmoil and its people confused. We ask God to
illumine them with His justice in order to completely
transform the world.
43. Abdu’l-Bahá said that: Bahá’u’lláh has laid the
foundations of justice like never before. The crown of
existence rests upon the pole of justice, and not of
forgiveness, and the life of mankind depends on justice
and not on forgiveness.
44. Small wonder then, Bahá’u’lláh has called His
administrative institution Universal House of Justice and
not Universal House of Forgiveness and thus make justice
the only basis and permanent foundation of His Most
Great Peace and to have proclaimed it in His Hidden
Words as “the best beloved of all things” in His sight. That

14
 is why the American people must, uncompromisingly,
implement this sublime standard.
45. At the same time the American people must live a chaste
and holy life and ensure that such conduct prevails over
materialism and irreligion.
46. A chaste and holy life must be made to controlling
principle in behaviour and conduct of all Bahá’ís in every
aspect of life 24 hours per day, seven days per week, 365
days per year.
47. Such chaste and holy life, with its implications of
modesty, purity, temperance, decency and clean-
mindedness involves moderation in all that pertains
dress, language, amusements and all artistic and literary
occupation. It demands daily vigilance in control of carnal
desires and corrupt inclinations. It calls for abandonment
of frivolous (not having any serious purpose or value)
conduct, with its excessive attachment to trivial and
often misdirected pleasures. Abstinence from alcoholic
drinks, from opium, and other drugs. It condemns the
prostitution of art and of literature, the practices of
nudism and of companionate marriage, infidelity in
marital relationships, and all manner of promiscuity, of
easy familiarity, and of sexual vices. It can tolerate no
compromise with the theories, the standards, the habits
and the excesses or a decadent age.
48. Bahá’u’lláh said that: the worldly pleasures and delights
are, in the sigh of God, as worthless as dust and ashes.
Pass beyond your evil and corrupt desires as your own
lusts hinder you from entering the straight and glorious
Path. Eschew all manner of wickedness. A race of men,
with great character, shall be raised up which, with the

15
 feet of detachment, will cast the sleeve of holiness over
all that has been created from water and clay. If allowed
science will overleap the bounds of moderation and bring
evil upon men. He must inhale the fragrance of sanctity
and if he met the fairest and most beautiful women, he
would not feel his heart seduced by the least shadow of
desire for her beauty. Those who follow their lusts and
corrupt desires are of the lost. God has made chastity to
be a crown for the heads of His handmaidens. If God
perceives from you acts of purity and holiness, He will
most certainly bless you.
49. Abdu’l-Bahá writes that: Drinking of wine is the chase of
chronic diseases, weakens the nerves, and consumes the
mind. Become intoxicated with the wine of the love of
God, and not with that which deadens your minds.
50. However, such high standards must not be confused with
total abstinence. It is not to deny anyone of legitimate
right to benefit from the joys and beauties enriched by
God. Bahá’u’lláh affirms that, as long as it does not come
between you and God, do not deprive yourself of God’s
wondrous bounties on earth or in heaven.
51. As for racial prejudice, we and the Americans must exert
every effort to demolish it in every way without question.
52. Let them call to mind, the example and conduct of
Abdu’l-Bahá when He so strikingly demonstrated His
keen sense of justice and made every effort to condemn
prejudice.
53. To discriminate against any race, on the ground of its
being socially backward, politically immature and
numerically in a minority is a violation of the spirit that
animates the Bahá’í Faith. However the great the

16
 pressure of events or of public opinion, we must not give
in to racial prejudice. It is our obligation to safeguard
every minority belonging to any faith, race, class or
nation. So important is this principle that, if all being
equal, in elections priority must be given to the party
representing the minority in order to stimulate and
encourage equality. We must ensure that in all Bahá’í
activity or representative institutions, be they
Assemblies, conventions, conferences, or committees,
have representations from minority groups. This will
represent to the world universality and representative
character of the Faith.
54. The Americans must demonstrate in every phase of their
activity and life freedom from racial prejudice. It must
permeate in every aspect of the life and become a
keynote of policy by the Administration.
55. Bahá’u’lláh has written that: All nations should become
one in faith and all men as brothers. Various races of
humankind lend a composite harmony and beauty of
colour to the whole.
56. Abdu’l-Bahá Himself declares: There is no difference
between black and white. If the heart is pure, both are
acceptable to God. There is no distinction or preference
for any soul in the realm of God’s justice and equity. The
diversity in the human family should be the cause of love
and harmony, as it is in music where many different
notes blend together in the making of a perfect chord.
57. All efforts must be made by the American people to
endure that their conduct reflects this while casting away
any racial superiority.

17
Summary 39-57
2.5 pages dedicated from the words of Bahá’u’lláh: develop
your character to become righteous and virtuous. The
purpose of God is to summon all mankind to become wholly
moral and to resign to the will of God. The most vital duty is
to purify our character, to correct our manners and improve
our conduct. Truthfulness is the foundation of all virtues –
without which progress in all God’s worlds is impossible for
any soul. When this holy attribute is established, all divine
qualities will also be acquired.
The oppressions that have befallen the world are preparing it
for the Most Great Justice. The purpose of justice is: the
appearance of unity among men. Justice is held by two
pillars: reward and punishment. They are the sources of life
to the world. Justice and equity are two guardians for the
protection of man. The crown of existence rests on justice
and not – forgiveness! That’s why the Administration is called
Universal House of Justice and not Universal House of
Forgiveness.
We must live a chaste and holy life. It demands daily vigilance
in control of carnal desires and corrupt inclinations. It calls
for abandonment of frivolous (not having any serious
purpose or value) conduct, with its excessive attachment to
trivial and often misdirected pleasures; also abstinence from
alcohol and drugs. It condemns the prostitution of art and
literature – the practices of nudism and of companionate
marriage, promiscuity and sexual vices. The worldly pleasures
are as worthless as dust and ashes. However, such high
standards must not be confused with total abstinence: it is
not to deny anyone of the legitimate right to benefit from
the joys and beauties of life – enriched by God. As long as it

18
 does not come between you and God, do not deprive
yourself of God’s wondrous beauty.
Six pages dedicate to: We must not give in to racial
prejudice. We must ensure that the Bahá’í institutions have
representatives from minority groups. The diversity in the
human family should be the cause of love and harmony, as it
is in music where many different notes blend together in the
making of a perfect chord.

58. The white people must abandon their usually inherent

and at times subconscious sense of superiority towards
members of the other race. Equally the black people
must show by every means the warmth of their
response, their readiness to forget the past and to forgo
ever suspicion that many linger in their hearts and minds.
Don’t think that this can happen easily with taking
initiative by either side.
59. A righteousness and rectitude of conduct, which are a
contrast to the political life of all parties and factions,
must be adopted by the American believers – these are
the weapons which the believers must adhere to firstly,
to regenerate the inwards life of the community and
secondly, spread the Faith and to assail the long-standing
evils. These virtues will prepare the believers for the time
when the Hand of Destiny will direct them to assist in
brining into operation the World Order.
60. In the conduct of this twofold crusade, the believers will
encounter resistance and suffer many setbacks. These
oppositions of the pleasure-seeking generation must be
completely overcome. As ‘Abdu’l-Bahá prophesied,

19
 “Many a test will be visited upon you. Troubles will befall
you, and suffering afflict you.”
61. Therefore believers must not be afraid of any criticisms.
The voice of criticism is a voice that indirectly reinforces
the proclamation of the Cause. Those who strongly
oppose the faith have indeed eventually become the
greatest of allies.
62. It is upon you, therefore, that your holy task is executed
with urgency and with imperative necessity in achieving
the promise of a future so bright that no previous age in
the chronicles of mankind can rival its glory.
________________________________
63. I have attempted in the beginning of these pages to
convey an idea of the glorious opportunities and the
tremendous responsibilities which now face the
American believers at so critical a stage in the Formative
Period of their Faith. I have dwelt the character of the
mission which against opposition must arise and carry
out. I have uttered the tasks lying ahead. I have set forth
those dynamic virtues, which difficult as they are to
attain, must constitute the essential requirements for the
success of those tasks. Now I must address the material
aspect of their immediate task.
64. The Seven Year Plan, with its twofold aspects of Temple
ornamentation and extension of teaching activity,
embracing both the Northern and Southern American
continents, is now well advanced into its second year. All
is now in place to ensure that the construction of the
Temple and of the House to be completed.

20
65. The teaching aspect of the Plan must now be pondered.
The Temple and administration of the Faith, as great as
they are, should be viewed as instruments for a more
effective propagation of the Faith.
66. It is, therefore, to the teaching requirements of the
Seven Year Plan that the American believers must
henceforth direct their careful attention. To teach the
Cause of God must be not be the exclusive right or sold
concern of the administrative institutions. Everyone must
participate, however limited their experience or means
or any other limitations. As Bahá’u’lláh said, “Teach ye
the Cause of God, O people of Bahá, for God hath
prescribed unto everyone the duty of proclaiming His
Message, and regardeth it as the most meritorious of all
deeds.”
67. Those who hold high ranks in their careers have a certain
advantage to teach the Faith, however, such individuals
cannot exercise greater influence on the mind and hearts
of existing believers. How often have the lowliest
adherents of the Faith, unschooled and utterly
inexperienced, with no standing whatsoever, and in
some cases devoid of intelligence, been capable of
winning victories for their cause, before which the most
brilliant achievements of the learned, the wise, and the
experienced have failed.
68. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá testified, “Peter, according to the history of
the Church, was also incapable of keeping count of the
days of the week. Whenever he decided to go fishing, he
would tie up his weekly food into seven parcels, and every
day he would east one of them, and when he had reached
the seventh, he would known that the Sabbath had
arrived, and thereupon would observe it.” If the Son of

21
 Man was capable of infusing into the helpless an
instrument of such potency as to cause, in the world of
Bahá’u’lláh, “the mysteries of wisdom and of utterance to
flow out of his mouth,” and to exalt him above the rest of
His disciples, and render him fit to become His successor
and the founder of His Church, how much more can the
Father, Who is Bahá’u’lláh, empower the most puny and
insignificant among His followers to achieve His purpose.
Such wonders would dwarf the mightiest achievements
of even the first apostle of Jesus Christ!
69. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has written, “The Báb hath said: ‘Should a
tiny ant desire, in this day, to be possessed of such power
as to be able to unravel the abstrusest [complex] and
most bewildering passages of the Qur’án, its wish will no
doubt be fulfilled, inasmuch as the mystery of eternal
might vibrates within the innermost being of all creates
things.’ If so helpless a creature can be endowed with so
subtle a capacity, how much more efficacious [effective &
successful] must be the power released through the
liberal effusions of the grace of Bahá’u’lláh!”
70. Therefore the followers cannot afford a moment’s
hesitation. A God-born Force, so powerful and
mysterious, - a Force which, as the Báb has written,
“vibrates within the innermost being of all created
things,” is breaking apart the age-old-ties which for
centuries have held together the fabric of society. The
undreamt-of opportunities offered through the
operation of this Force – the American believes must
now fully exploit.
71. A world which is so corrupt full of decadence, prejudice
and injustice, will witness the sweeping changes

22
 presented by this revolutionising Force throughout the
planet.
72. The corruptions, so sad as they are, must not sway but
rather enthuse the believers to spread the word of
Bahá’u’lláh. Every instrument in the administration
machinery and the Temple mush be utilised to contribute
their share to the teaching campaign.
73. the opportunities which the turmoil of the present age
presents must be exploited for the purpose of spreading
the knowledge of eh Faith and for enlisting fresh recruits.
Now is the time to rescue a fallen generation that has
rebelled against its God and ignored His warnings, and to
offer it that complete security which only the strongholds
of the Faith can provide.
74. The urgency of the teaching campaign cannot be
overestimated. The creative energies released by the Will
of Abdu’l-Bahá must be carried out in conformity with
certain principles.
75. Those who participate in the teachings must familiarise
themselves with the various aspects of the history and
teachings of their Faith. In their efforts to teach, they
must study for themselves, conscientiously and
painstakingly, the literature of their Faith, delve into its
teachings, assimilate its laws and principles, ponder its
admonitions [caution and warning], tenets and purposes,
commit to memory certain of its exhortations [influential
writings] and prayers, master the essentials of its
administration, and keep abreast of its current affairs
and latest developments. They must strive to obtain a
sound knowledge of the history and tenets of Islám – the
source and background of their Faith – and approach

23
 reverently the study of Qur’án which, apart from the
sacred scriptures of the Babí and Bahá’í Revelations,
constitutes the only Book which can be regarded as an
absolutely authenticated Repository of the Word of God.
76. Having acquired these prerequisites of success in the
teaching field, they must endeavour, whenever feasible,
to acquire a certain proficiency in the languages spoken
by the inhabitants of those countries, and knowledge of
their customs, habits, and outlook.
77. It is the bounden duty of every American believer to
initiate, promote and consolidate teachings of the Faith.
Neither the threatening world situation, nor any
consideration of lack of material resources, of mental
equipment, of knowledge, or of experience – desirable as
they are – should deter any pioneer teacher from arising
independently, and from setting in motion the forces
which, Abdu’l-Bahá has assured us, will attract even as a
magnet the promised and infallible aid of Bahá’u’lláh. Let
him not wait for any directions or encouragement from
elected representatives of the community nor be
deterred by any obstacles which his relatives or friends
may be inclined to place in his path. Bahá’u’lláh, referring
to such as teacher has revealed, “let him put his whole
trust in God, as the best provision for his journey, and
array himself with the robe of virtue…. If he be kindled
with the fire of His love, if he forgoeth all created things,
the words he uttereth shall set on fire them that hear
him.”

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Summary 58-77
The white people must abandon their sense of superiority
and the black people must respond with warmth and forget
the past. A righteous conduct is necessary to regenerate the
inward community and to spread the Faith during which the
believers will encounter resistance and suffer many setbacks.
Therefore don’t be afraid of criticism and commit to
implementing the holy task with urgency.
I have in the beginning of these pages conveyed: the
opportunities and responsibilities; the character of the
mission and the opposition that will arise against it; and the
virtues and principles. In accordance to the Seven Year Plan,
now that the Temple is complete, the teaching requirements
of the Faith must now take prominence. Everyone must get
involved without any excuse however limited their resources.
Those in high rank careers have a certain advantage to teach
the faith but must not use their position to gain advantage
over existing believers. How often have the lowliest
adherents of the Faith, limited in so many ways, achieved in
teaching the Faith where the wise and experienced have
failed. For example, look at Peter, with all his limitations he
was given spiritual guidance to become the Son of Man’s
successor and founder of His church. Thus, just think how
much more the Father, Bahá’u’lláh, can empower the most
puny and insignificant of His followers to achieve His
purpose. The Báb has also gone to say that should a tiny ant
desire to teach the Faith, God will help him in so many ways.
This world which is so corrupt full of decadence, prejudice,
and injustice will witness the changes presented by the God-
born Force. These corruptions which are breaking the fabric
of society must be exploited by the believers to rescue a
fallen generation and provide them with security.

25
 Those participate in the teachings of the Faith, in their
efforts, they must study for themselves, conscientiously and
painstakingly, the history, the teaching, the literature, the
administration system, the tenets, the current affairs, and
the latest developments of the Faith. Furthermore, they must
memorise certain exhortations and prayers. They must
obtain a sound knowledge of the history and tenets of Islam
which, along with Babí and Bahá’í Revelations, constitute an
absolutely authenticated Repository of Word of God. Having
acquired these prerequisites, then the teachers must
endeavour to learn the language, custom and culture of the
visiting country.
It is the bounded duty of every American believer to teach.
Nothing must be allowed to get in the way – namely, the
threatening world situation and the lack of resources or
mental equipment or knowledge. Don’t let anyone prevent
you from teaching and pioneering, not even your friends and
family. Bahá’u’lláh said that those who teach must have faith
and trust in Bahá’u’lláh and will, beyond doubt, be assisted
by God.

78. Undaunted by any hindrance, let him carefully consider

every avenue to teach. Survey all possibilities and
evaluate personal advantages, then proceed intelligently
and systematically. Also associate with clubs, exhibitions
and lectures on subjects akin to the teaching and ideals
of the Cause such as temperance, morality, social
welfare, religious and racial tolerance etc. and support
institutions set up to support humanity. Adapt
accordingly to how receptive someone is to the Cause.
Refrain from insisting on such laws as might impose too
severe a strain on the seeker and endeavour to nurse

26
 him, patiently, tactfully, and yet determinedly, into full
maturity. At the right time introduce him to other
Bahá’ís.
79. Keep in contact with relevant Bahá’í teaching agencies or
other Bahá’í institutions through constant interchange of
ideas through letters, reports, bulletins, and other means
of communication designed for spread of the Faith.
80. Make teaching the prime concern of your life in every
situation that you are exposed to when considering that
it is not only an obligation but also a privilege to spread
the Cause and rest content that however inadequate the
vehicle that conveyed the Message, the power of its
Author will prevail. Also attend summer schools which
are an opportunity to enrich study and discussion.
81. Ensure that all the world races come together to enrol as
members of the Faith in fraternity (brotherly love and
society for common purpose). Abdu’l-Bahá says consider
the flowers of the garden which are all different but
together bestow beauty. How unpleasing to the eye if
they were all the same. He also says go as far as to also
teach the American Indians and Eskimos.
82. The existing Bahá’í institutions should ensure that new
institutions are formed in Canada and other parts of the
Americas. The effort requires is extraordinary and
difficult. Yet Bahá’u’lláh assured us that “should a man,
all alone, arise in the name of Bahá, and put on the
armour of His lover, him will the Almighty cause to be
victorious, though the forces of earth and heaven be
arrayed against him.” He as also written, “Should anyone
arise for the triumph of our Cause, him will God render
victorious though tens of thousands of enemies

27
 beleagued against him. And if his love for me wax
stronger, God will establish his ascendancy over all the
powers of earth and heaven.” “Now we must not consider
our ability and capacity, nay rather we must fix our gaze
upon the favours and bounties of God.”
83. Some parts of America have not managed to unravel the
mysteries of the Bible, the Gospel and the Qur’án.
Therefore concerted efforts must be made spread the
Standard of Unity. The future of Canada is very great
both spiritually and materially, so also focus your
teaching in that country.
84. As part of the second stage of the Seven Year Plan we
must teach in Central and Southern America.
85. Central and Southern America embrace no less than
twenty nations and account for one-third of the world’s
entire number of states. As the world contracts into a
neighbourhood, the concealed possibilities in each of
them are becoming increasingly apparent.
86. The North American institutes must launch an offensive
against the powers of darkness as the unfold.
87. Everyone is encouraged to go to the remotest of placed
in the Americans to teach. Do not wait for anyone else to
make the first move before you do. Let them
disencumber of all attachment to this world and the
vanities thereof.
88. “O Wayfarer in the path of God! Take…” is referred to
here plus other quotes from Bahá’u’lláh that God will
help pioneers without any doubt.
89. Abdu’l-Bahá is also quotes stating that don’t be afraid, go
out and pioneer, God will be there for you.

28
90. Your role is to lay down the foundations. The second
generation of Bahá’ís will continue to build the
Assemblies and Administrative Order of the Faith.
91. Continues on to talk about laying down the foundations
and he importance thereof.
92. The establish institutes in North America must play their
part in assisting the pioneers and in establishing the
foundations.
93. Shoghi Effendi says that the number of teachers must be
increased. The material resources to be placed at their
disposal must be multiplied and efficiently organised. The
various obstacles and political conditions should be
observed and pre-empted.
94. Translations of the books and literature are of foremost
importance. Leaflets and pamphlets must be translated
and disseminated.
95. Every teacher should make it his concern to mix, in a
friendly manner, with all sections of the population, and
to familiarise himself with their ideas, tastes, and habits,
to study the approach best suited to them, to
concentrate, patiently and tactfully, on a few who have
shown marked capacity and receptivity, and to
endeavour, with extreme kindness, to implant such love,
zeal, and devotion in their hearts as to enable them to
become in turn self-sufficient and independent
promoters of the Faith. Bahá’u’lláh says “A kindly tongue
is the lodestone of the hearts of men. It is the bread of
the spirit, it clotheth the words with meaning, it is the
fountain of the light of wisdom and understanding.”

29
96. Everyone should make an effort, irrespective of in which
country you are based, to get to know the citizens of that
country. However care should be exercised at all times in
case their eagerness to further the international interest
of the Faith they frustrate their purpose and turn away
through any act that might be misconstrued as an
attempt to proselytise (try to convert somebody) and
bring undue pressure upon them, those whom they wish
to win over to their Cause.
97. American believers should settled in countries that may
offer them a reasonable prospect of earning the means
of livelihood, thus relieving the continually increasing
pressure on their Teaching Fund which must provide
support, if not otherwise available, with the teaching
campaigns.
98. To those who have set out pioneering on foreign lands
they must keep in touch with the National Committee
and cooperate with fellow-believers in those countries
irrelevant of their background. Such pioneers should
communicate efficiently with the communities their
progress and achievements. The maintenance of a close
contact and harmonious relationship between the Inter-
America Committee and the pioneers is paramount and
will set a good example to future pioneers.
99. It is important for those pioneers who can make a
livelihood in those countries, because of the various
restrictions imposed in those countries to do so, to settle
in those countries indefinitely. For this they will be
rewarded. Bahá’u’lláh said, “Such a service is indeed the
prince of all goodly deeds, and the ornament of every
goodly act.” Such a reward is not an abstract blessing to

30
 the future life, but also a tangible benefit in this material
world.
100. Women have contributed so much to the spreading of
the Faith and their hard work must no go unrecognised
and without gratitude.
101. Similarly the gratitude goes out to the youths of America
for their persistence, intelligence and effective
participation in spite of the lack of resources.
102. As mentioned in the Charter as written by Abdu’l-Bahá,
Panama has a special position as it links North and South
America. Abdu’l-Bahá said that in the future Panama
Canal will play a great importance and will unite the East
and the West, the North and the South. Therefore every
effort should be made to establish the Faith in Panama as
well as El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.
_______________________________________
103. The challenges are great and severe in the concluding
years of the First Century of the Bahá’í Era. Such strife
and chaos are but aspects of a greater Plan, one and
indivisible, whose Source is God, whose author is
Bahaullah, the theatre of whose operations in the either
planet, and whose ultimate objectives are the unity of
the human race and the peace of all mankind.
104. Reflections such as these should steel the resolve of the
entire Bahá’í community, should dissipate their grief and
arouse them to rededicate themselves to ever single
provisions of that Divine Charter.
105. Anyone inclined to doubt should meditate on the words
of Abdu’l-Bahá. In summary: the measure of the

31
 American people’s success is significant and range of the
future achievements undisclosed.
106. However no reader of these words should rest on their
laurels. To forfeit the honour of proclaiming “the advent
of the Kingdom of the Lord of Hosts” in “all the five
continents of the globe” would silence those “praises of
its majesty and greatness” that otherwise would echo
throughout “the whole earth.” Europe, Asia, Africa,
Australasia, and Americas.
107. Shoghi Effendi is convinced that such neglect will never
come to pass and the believer will prosper.
108. Shoghi Effendi can do no better than offer his support
and guidance and quote from the unpolished and
untranslated writings of Bahá’u’lláh.
109. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh highlighting the
station imposed on the American believer and ensuring
His support and gratitude.
110. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh stating that this
is the Day in which God’s Revelation will be manifested
unto men. Every prophet has announced the coming of
this Day. The Day of the Promise is come. This is a
Revelation, under which, if a man she for its sake one
drop of blood, myriads of oceans will be his recompense.
In this Day the world is another world, and the Cause
another Cause. Know this and be not of the ignorant. This
is the Day for which everyone high and low has been
waiting.
111. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh talking about the
God all Powerful, the Creator of all things visible and
invisible.

32
112. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh stating that the
time for the destruction of the world and its people hath
arrived. He Who is the Pre-Existent is come, that He may
bestow everlasting life, and grand eternal preservation,
and confer that which is conducive to true living. When
the Tongue of Grandeur will proclaim: The Kingdom is
God’s, the Almighty, the All-Praised. God shall cleanse
the earth from the defilement of their corruption and
shall give it for an heritage unto such of His servants as
are nigh unto Him.
113. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh stating that in
the beginning of every Revelation adversities have
prevailed, which later have been turned into great
prosperity. For fear that the bad things of this world
upset you, be ye as a mountain in the Cause of your Lord.
In case the strong ones of the earth rob you of your
strength, or they who rule the world fill you with fear,
put your trust in God, and commit your affairs to His
keeping. He verily will through the power of truth, render
you victorious. Let not the happenings of the world
sadden you. O my servants! Sorrow not if, in these days
and on this earthly plane, things contrary to your wishes
have been ordained and manifested by God, for days of
blissful joy, of heavenly delight, are assuredly in store for
you.
114. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh stating that it is
incumbent upon the people of Bahá to strive with the
utmost patience and forbearance to guide the peoples of
the world to the Most Great Horizon. Centre your
energies in the propagation of the Faith of God. Your
behaviour towards your neighbour should be such as to
manifest clearly the signs of the one true God, for ye are

33
 the first among me to be re-created by His Spirit. This
shall be better for you than all the treasures of the past
and of the future, if ye be of them that comprehend this
truth. I swear by God! So great are the things ordained
for the steadfast that where they, so much as the eye of
a needle, to be disclosed, all who are in heaven and on
earth would be dumbfounded. Whoso openeth his lips in
this day, and maketh mention of the name of his Lord,
the hosts of Divine inspiration shall descend upon him
from the heaven of My name. Please God ye may all be
strengthened to carry out that which is the Will of God,
and may be graciously assisted to appreciate the rank
conferred upon such of His loved ones as have arisen to
serve Him and magnify His name.
115. Quotes from the writings of Bahá’u’lláh stating that those
who have detached themselves from all but Him. There
lay concealed within the Holy Veil, and prepared for the
service of God, a company of His chosen ones who shall
be manifested unto men, who shall aid His Cause, who
shall be afraid of no one, though the entire human race
rise up and war against him.
__________________________
116. One more word in conclusion. Among some of the most
thought-provoking pronouncements every made by
Abdu’l-Bahá, in the course of His travels in the US was
the following, “May this American Democracy be the first
nation to establish the foundation of international
agreement. May it be the first nation to proclaim the
unity of mankind. May it be the first nation to proclaim
the unity of mankind. May it be the first to unfurl the
Standard of the Most Great Peace. The American people
are indeed worth of being the first to build the Tabernacle

34
 of the Great Peace, and proclaim the oneness of
mankind.... For America hath developed powers and
capacities greater and more wonderful than other
nations.... The American nation is equipped and
empowered to accomplish that which will adorn the
pages of history, to become the envy of the world, and be
blest in both the East and the West for the triumph of its
people. The American continent gives signs and evidences
of very great advancement. Its future is even more
promising, for its influence and illumination are far-
reaching. It will lead all nations spiritually.”
117. The creative energies, mysteriously generated by the first
stirrings of the embryonic World Order of Bahá’u’lláh,
have endowed that nation with the worthiness to play
the part foreshadowed in these prophetic words.
118. It should be noted that the American nation as a whole,
no matter how ignorant it is of the Source, is gravitating
towards such directions as indicated by Abdu’l-Bahá.
119. The world is moving on. Dangers, undreamt of an
unpredictable, threaten it both from within and from
without. The world is in turmoil. The world is contracting
into a neighbourhood. Whether American likes it or not it
is being pulled into the very web of international
association.
120. The world is beset with perils. As much as fifty million
men are either under arms or in reserve. Agitated
multitudes in countries seethe with fear, engendered by
political strife, racial fanaticism and hatred. Both
Bahá’u’lláh and Abdu’l-Bahá said that the world’s
situation is going to worsen.

35
121. The direction to which the American nation is heading
and the changes which are shaping its policies are to
every Baha’i observer in the light of the prophecies of
Bahá’u’lláh and Abdu’l-Bahá. It is impossible to predict
the exact course this nation will follow.
122. However a closer association and involvements with the
recurrent international crises is the most likely outcome
in the future. [Remember, this book was written in
1938.] Nothing however can alter the nations destiny as
preordained by Abdu’l-Bahá.
123. The immediate future will drawn the nation into the
world-shaking ordeal, into its vortex. Out of it will
probably emerge consciously determined to seize the
opportunity to bring its full influence in conjunction with
its sister nations over the human race.
124. Then and only then will the American nation, moulded by
the common war, be in a position to raise its voice in the
council of the nations and lay the cornerstone of
universal peace. Then and only then, be able to fulfil the
unspeakably glorious destiny ordained for it by Abdu’l-
Bahá. Then and only then, will the American nation
accomplish “that which will adorn the pages of history,”
“become the envy of the world and be blest in both the
East and the West.”

Written December 25, 1938

Shoghi Effendi

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