London: A compilation of extracts
from Bahá'í literature
Compiled by the Bahá'í Council for England CONTENTS Introduction I From the Writings of Bahá'ú'lláh II From the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá III From the Talks of 'Abdu'l-Bahá IV From the Writings of Shoghi Effendi V From Letters Written by and on behalf of Shoghi Effendi VI From Letters Written by and on behalf of the Universal House of Justice VII References to London in other Bahá'í Literature INTRODUCTION London enjoys a unique status in the annals of Bahá'í history. In this new dispensation, perhaps no other city in the world, outside of the Haifa-'Akká area, has been so singularly blessed. Bahá'u'lláh Himself addressed Queen Victoria, resident in London, 'capital city of the largest and most cosmopolitan empire the world has ever known'1 and praised British action in ending the slave trade and entrusting government to elected representatives of the people. Bahá'u'lláh also addressed a Tablet to the Times of London, in His esteem the 'dawning place of news'2 and the most influential and respected newspaper of His day. In it, He drew attention to the terrible plight of the so-called 'Seven Martyrs of Yazd' and called upon all newspapers to investigate the truth and vindicate it. 'Abdu'l-Bahá blessed London with His own footsteps on two occasions, remarking often on the fairness and steadfastness of its people and its great spiritual light. The importance of those visits, He said, would be remembered in the future in all ages and in all lands. The holding of the First Universal Races Congress in London in 1911 would forever redound to the glory of England. Shoghi Effendi's relationship with the city was even more intimate. His wife, Rúhíyyih Rabbaní, noted how he had become very familiar with it while a student at Oxford and how many associations London had for him from those days. It was in London that he received the devastating news of the passing of his beloved grandfather. As Guardian of the Bahá'í Faith, Shoghi Effendi attached great hope to the activities of the friends in the city. And it was in London that his life came to its untimely conclusion, his sacred remains now sanctifying its earth. Surrounding his elegant monument are now arrayed memorials to so many devoted believers - Hand of the Cause of God Hasan Balyúzí, Knights of Bahá'u'lláh, distinguished teachers, administrators and servants of the Faith, adding ever more spiritual potency to this sacred spot. In 1978, the Universal House of Justice hailed the first ever visit of a reigning monarch to the Guardian's Resting Place as an occasion for great rejoicing. London was also the triumphant meeting place for what the Universal House of Justice called at the time the 'greatest gathering of Bahá'ís ever held in one place'3, the First Bahá'í World Congress, summoning to the historic Royal Albert Hall the outpourings of the Abhá Kingdom. It was also at this time that the newly-elected Universal House of Justice met at the National Bahá'í Centre, 27 Rutland Gate, to consider essential matters concerning its establishment and functioning. In the 1980s, extensive refurbishment was carried out at 27 Rutland Gate, at the request of the Universal House of Justice to make it a befitting setting for the reception of dignitaries, guests and the media. London's historic and spiritual significance is unique. This compilation of extracts is designed to give inspiration, vision and encouragement to all its readers, particularly those resident in London itself. May London, once renowned throughout the world for its advanced material civilisation, now lead the way through its spiritual civilisation. THE BAHÁ'Í COUNCIL FOR ENGLAND 1 Century of Light, Bahá'í World Centre, 2001, p.20 2 See The Bahá'í World Volume XVIII, Bahá'í World Centre, 1986, pp.975-979 3 Universal House of Justice, Message to National Conventions, 7 May 1963 I. From the Writings of Bahá'ú'lláh O Queen in London! Incline thine ear unto the voice of thy Lord, the Lord of all mankind, calling from the Divine Lote- Tree: Verily, no God is there but Me, the Almighty, the All- Wise! Cast away all that is on earth, and attire the head of thy kingdom with the crown of the remembrance of thy Lord, the All-Glorious. He, in truth, hath come unto the world in His most great glory, and all that hath been mentioned in the Gospel hath been fulfilled... Lay aside thy desire, and set then thine heart towards thy Lord, the Ancient of Days. We make mention of thee for the sake of God, and desire that thy name may be exalted through thy remembrance of God, the Creator of earth and heaven. He, verily, is witness unto that which I say. We have been informed that thou hast forbidden the trading in slaves, both men and women. This, verily, is what God hath enjoined in this wondrous Revelation. God hath, truly, destined a reward for thee, because of this. He, verily, will pay the doer of good his due recompense, wert thou to follow what hath been sent unto thee by Him Who is the All-Knowing, the All-Informed. As to him who turneth aside, and swelleth with pride, after that the clear tokens have come unto him, from the Revealer of signs, his work shall God bring to naught. He, in truth, hath power over all things. Man's actions are acceptable after his having recognized (the Manifestation). He that turneth aside from the True One is indeed the most veiled amongst His creatures. Thus hath it been decreed by Him Who is the Almighty, the Most Powerful. We have also heard that thou hast entrusted the reins of counsel into the hands of the representatives of the people. Thou, indeed, hast done well, for thereby the foundations of the edifice of thine affairs will be strengthened, and the hearts of all that are beneath thy shadow, whether high or low, will be tranquillized. It behooveth them, however, to be trustworthy among His servants, and to regard themselves as the representatives of all that dwell on earth. This is what counselleth them, in this Tablet, He Who is the Ruler, the All-Wise... (From Tablet to Queen Victoria, published in The Proclamation of Bahá'u'lláh, pages 33-34) The system of government which the British people have adopted in London appeareth to be good, for it is adorned with the light of both kingship and of the consultation of the people. (From Lawh-i-Dunyá, published in Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh, page 93) II. From the Writings of 'Abdu'l-Bahá The believers in London are indeed steadfast and true, they are resolute, they are constant in service; when put to the test, they do not falter, nor doth their fire abate with the passage of time; rather, they are Bahá'ís. They are of heaven, they are filled with light, they are of God. Without any doubt they will become the cause of raising high the Word of God, and advancing the oneness of the world of man; of promoting the teachings of God, and spreading far and near the equality of every member of the human race. It is easy to approach the Kingdom of Heaven, but hard to stand firm and staunch within it, for the tests are rigorous, and heavy to bear. But the English remain steadfast under all conditions, neither at the first sign of trouble do their footsteps slip. They are not changeable, playing fast and loose with some project and soon giving it up. They do not, for some trivial reason, fail in enthusiasm and zeal, their interest gone. No, in all they do, they are stable, rock- solid and staunch. Although ye dwell in western lands, still, praise be to God, ye did hear His call from out the east and, even as Moses, did warm your hands at the fire kindled in the Asian Tree. Ye did find the true path, were lit like unto lamps, and have come into the Kingdom of God. And now have ye arisen, out of gratitude for these blessings, and ye are asking God's help for all the peoples of the earth, that their eyes as well may behold the splendours of the Abhá Realm, and their hearts, even as mirrors, reflect the bright rays of the Sun of Truth. It is my hope that the breaths of the Holy Spirit will so be breathed into your hearts that your tongues will disclose the mysteries, and set forth and expound the inner meanings of the Holy Books; that the friends will become physicians, and will, through the potent medicine of the heavenly Teachings, heal the long-standing diseases that afflict the body of this world; that they will make the blind to see, the deaf to hear, the dead to come alive; that they will awaken those who are sound asleep. Rest ye assured that the confirmations of the Holy Spirit will descend upon you, and that the armies of the Abhá Kingdom will grant you the victory. (Selections from the Writings of `Abdu'l-Bahá, 219, pages 274-275) The call to arbitration, to peace, to love and to loyalty is the call of Bahá'u'lláh. His standard floats since fifty years, summoning all of whatever race and creed...Where love dwells, there is light! Where animosity dwells, there is darkness!...This Congress is one of the greatest events. It will be forever to the glory of England that it was established at her capital. It is easy to accept a truth; but it is difficult to be steadfast in it; for the tests are many and heavy. It is well seen that the British are firm, and are not lightly turned aside, being neither ready to begin a matter for a little while nor prone to abandon it for a little reason. Verily in every undertaking they show firmness. O ye people! Cause this thing to be not a thing of words but of deeds. Some congresses are held only to increase differences. Let it not be so with you. Let your effort be to find harmony. Let brotherhood be felt and seen among you; and carry ye its quickening power throughout the world. It is my prayer that the Congress will bear great fruit. (Letter to the First Universal Races Congress, Star of the West, Volume 2 No.9, page 3) London may become a mirror and thou its sun. It is not strange from the favour and present of Bahá'u'lláh that He may make Sitárih to be a bright moon so that the horizon of London may be bright. (Provisional translation of Tablet to 'Sitárih' (Star) Lady Blomfield , 17 September 1912) And with the aid and favour of Bahá'u'lláh thou mayest upraise an illuminated torch in London, that it may be an everlasting Light, causing the illumination of that Region. (Provisional translation of Tablet to Lady Blomfield, 15 September 1913) III. From the Talks of 'Abdu'l-Bahá Praise be to God! the signs of friendship are appearing, and as a proof of this I, today, coming from the East, have met in this London of the West with extreme kindness, regard and love, and I am deeply thankful and happy. I shall never forget this time I am spending with you. ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 38) Praise be to God, that such a meeting of purity and steadfastness is being held in London. The hearts of those present are pure, and are turned towards the Kingdom of God. I hope that all that is contained and established in the Holy books of God may be realized in you. ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 44) Heaven has blessed this day. It was said that London should be a place for a great proclamation of the Faith. I was tired when I went on board the steamer, but when I reached London and beheld the faces of the friends my fatigue left me. Your great love refreshes me. I am very pleased with the English friends. ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 53) These meetings here in London are good, the knowledge and the intention are good, but how can there be a result without action? ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 54) It makes me happy to see all the believers in London. You are all, of every race and creed, members of one family. The teaching of Bahá'u'lláh constrains you to realize your brotherhood to one another. ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 66) I have enjoyed London very much and the bright faces of the friends have delighted my heart. I was drawn here by their unity and love. In the world of existence there is no more powerful magnet than the magnet of love. These few days will pass away, but their import shall be remembered by God's friends in all ages and in all lands. ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 79) Every man walking in the street is free as if he were in his own kingdom. There is a great spiritual light in London . The effort made for justice is real and in this country the law is the same for the poor as for the rich. ('Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 110) IV. From the Writings of Shoghi Effendi In London Mrs. Thornburgh-Cropper, as a consequence of the creative influences released by that never-to-be-forgotten pilgrimage (the first visit of western believers to meet 'Abdu'l-Bahá in 'Akká, 1898-1899), was able to initiate activities which, stimulated and expanded through the efforts of the first English believers, and particularly of Ethel J. Rosenberg, converted in 1899, enabled them to erect, in later years, the structure of their administrative institutions in the British Isles. (God Passes By, page 260) Whilst ('Abdu'l-Bahá) sojourned in England the house placed at His disposal in Cadogan Gardens became a veritable mecca to all sorts and conditions of men, thronging to visit the Prisoner of Akká Who had chosen their great city as the first scene of His labors in the West. "O, these pilgrims, these guests, these visitors!" thus bears witness His devoted hostess (Lady Blomfield) during the time He spent in London, "Remembering those days, our ears are filled with the sound of their footsteps --as they came from every country in the world. Every day, all day long, a constant stream, an interminable procession! Ministers and missionaries, oriental scholars and occult students, practical men of affairs and mystics, Anglicans, Catholics, and Non-conformists, Theosophists and Hindus, Christian Scientists and doctors of medicine, Muslims, Buddhists and Zoroastrians. There also called: politicians, Salvation Army soldiers, and other workers for human good, women suffragists, journalists, writers, poets and healers, dressmakers and great ladies, artists and artisans, poor workless people and prosperous merchants, members of the dramatic and musical world, these all came; and none were too lowly, nor too great, to receive the sympathetic consideration of this holy Messenger, Who was ever giving His life for others' good." `Abdu'l-Bahá's first public appearance before a western audience significantly enough took place in a Christian house of worship, when, on September 10, 1911, He addressed an overflowing congregation from the pulpit of the City Temple. Introduced by the Pastor, the Reverend R. J. Campbell, He, in simple and moving language, and with vibrant voice, proclaimed the unity of God, affirmed the fundamental oneness of religion, and announced that the hour of the unity of the sons of men, of all races, religions and classes had struck. On another occasion, on September 17, at the request of the Venerable Archdeacon Wilberforce, He addressed the congregation of St. John the Divine, at Westminster, after evening service, choosing as His theme the transcendental greatness of the Godhead, as affirmed and elucidated by Bahá'u'lláh in the Kitáb-i-Iqán. "The Archdeacon," wrote a contemporary of that event, "had the Bishop's chair placed for his Guest on the chancel steps, and, standing beside Him, read the translation of `Abdu'l-Bahá's address himself. The congregation was profoundly moved, and, following the Archdeacon's example, knelt to receive the blessing of the Servant of God--Who stood with extended arms--His wonderful voice rising and falling in the silence with the power of His invocation." At the invitation of the Lord Mayor of London He breakfasted with him at the Mansion House; addressed the Theosophical Society at their headquarters, at the express request of their President, and also a Meeting of the Higher Thought center in London; was invited by a deputation from the Bramo-Somaj Society to deliver a lecture under their auspices; visited and delivered an address on world unity at the Mosque at Woking, at the invitation of the Muslim Community of Great Britain, and was entertained by Persian princes, noblemen, ex-ministers and members of the Persian Legation in London. He stayed as a guest in Dr. T. K. Cheyne's home in Oxford, and He delivered an address to "a large and deeply interested audience," highly academic in character, gathered at Manchester College in that city, and presided over by Dr. Estlin Carpenter. He also spoke from the pulpit of a Congregational Church in the East End of London, in response to the request of its Pastor; addressed gatherings in Caxton Hall and Westminster Hall, the latter under the chairmanship of Sir Thomas Berkeley, and witnessed a performance of "Eager Heart," a Christmas mystery play at the Church House, Westminster, the first dramatic performance He had ever beheld, and which in its graphic depiction of the life and sufferings of Jesus Christ moved Him to tears. In the Hall of the Passmore Edwards' Settlement, in Tavistock Place, he spoke to an audience of about four hundred and sixty representative people, presided over by Prof. Michael Sadler, called on a number of working women of that Settlement, who were on holiday at Vanners', in Byfleet, some twenty miles out of London, and paid a second visit there, meeting on that occasion people of every condition who had specially gathered to see Him, among whom were "the clergy of several denominations, a headmaster of a boys' public school, a member of Parliament, a doctor, a famous political writer, the vice-chancellor of a university, several journalists, a well-known poet, and a magistrate from London." "He will long be remembered," wrote a chronicler of His visit to England, describing that occasion, "as He sat in the bow window in the afternoon sunshine, His arm round a very ragged but very happy little boy who had come to ask `Abdu'l-Bahá for sixpence for his money box and for his invalid mother, whilst round Him in the room were gathered men and women discussing Education, Socialism, the first Reform Bill, and the relation of submarines and wireless telegraphy to the new era on which man is entering." Among those who called on Him during the memorable days He spent in England and Scotland were the Reverend Archdeacon Wilberforce, the Reverend R. J. Campbell, the Reverend Rhonddha Williams, the Reverend Roland Corbet, Lord Lamington, Sir Richard and Lady Stapley, Sir Michael Sadler, the Jalálu'd-Dawlih, son of the Zillu's- Sultan, Sir Ameer Ali, the late Maharaja of Jalawar, who paid Him many visits and gave an elaborate dinner and reception in His honor, the Maharaja of Rajputana, the Ranee of Sarawak, Princess Karadja, Baroness Barnekov, Lady Wemyss and her sister, Lady Glencomer, Lady Agnew, Miss Constance Maud, Prof. E. G. Browne, Prof. Patrick Geddes, Mr. Albert Dawson, editor of the Christian Commonwealth, Mr. David Graham Pole, Mrs. Annie Besant, Mrs. Pankhurst, and Mr. Stead, who had long and earnest conversations with Him. "Very numerous," His hostess, describing the impression produced on those who were accorded by Him the privilege of a private audience, has written, "were these applicants for so unique an experience, how unique only those knew when in the presence of the Master, and we could partly divine, as we saw the look on their faces as they emerged--a look as though blended of awe, of marveling, and of a certain calm joy. Sometimes we were conscious of reluctance in them to come forth into the outer world, as though they would hold fast to their beatitude, lest the return of things of earth should wrest it from them." "A profound impression," the aforementioned chronicler has recorded, summing up the results produced by that memorable visit, "remained in the minds and memories of all sorts and conditions of men and women.... Very greatly was `Abdu'l-Bahá's sojourn in London appreciated; very greatly His departure regretted. He left behind Him many, many friends. His love had kindled love. His heart had opened to the West, and the Western heart had closed around this patriarchal presence from the East. His words had in them something that appealed not only to their immediate hearers, but to men and women generally." ...A survey, however inadequate of the varied and immense activities of `Abdu'l-Bahá in His tour of Europe and America cannot leave without mention some of the strange incidents that would often accompany personal contact with Him; ...the transformation effected in the life of the son of a country rector in England, who, in his misery and poverty, had resolved, whilst walking along the banks of the Thames, to put an end to his existence, and who, at the sight of `Abdu'l-Bahá's photograph displayed in a shop window, had inquired about Him, hurried to His residence, and been so revived by His words of cheer and comfort as to abandon all thought of self-destruction; the decision of the editor of a journal printed in Japan to break his journey to Tokyo at Constantinople, and travel to London for "the joy of spending one evening in His presence"; the touching scene when `Abdu'l-Bahá, receiving from the hands of a Persian friend, recently arrived in London from Ishqábád, a cotton handkerchief containing a piece of dry black bread and a shrivelled apple--the offering of a poor Bahá'í workman in that city -opened it before His assembled guests, and, leaving His luncheon untouched, broke pieces off that bread, and partaking Himself of it shared it with those who were present - these are but a few of a host of incidents that shed a revealing light on some personal aspects of His memorable journeys. Nor can certain scenes revolving around that majestic and patriarchal Figure, as He moved through the cities of Europe and America, be ever effaced from memory. The remarkable interview at which `Abdu'l-Bahá, while placing lovingly His hand on the head of Archdeacon Wilberforce,answered his many questions, whilst that distinguished churchman sat on a low chair by His side; the still more remarkable scene when that same Archdeacon, after having knelt with his entire congregation to receive His benediction at St. John's the Divine, passed down the aisle to the vestry hand in hand with his Guest, whilst a hymn was being sung by the entire assembly standing; ...the characteristic gesture of a Zoroastrian physician who, arriving in breathless haste on the morning of `Abdu'l- Bahá's departure from London to bid Him farewell, anointed with fragrant oil first His head and His breast, and then, touching the hands of all present, placed round His neck and shoulders a garland of rosebuds and lilies; ...the unsolicited mark of respect shown Him by distinguished society women in London, who would spontaneously curtsy when ushered into His presence; ...Who knows what thoughts flooded the heart of `Abdu'l-Bahá as He found Himself the central figure of such memorable scenes as these? Who knows what thoughts were uppermost in His mind as He sat at breakfast beside the Lord Mayor of London...Who knows what memories stirred within Him as...He watched from Serpentine Bridge in London the pearly chain of lights beneath the trees stretching as far as the eye could see? (From God Passes By, pages 283-293) V. From Letters Written by and on Behalf of Shoghi Effendi The letters I have recently received from the friends in London and Manchester have been to me a source of great hope and encouragement, and have served to strengthen the ties that bind me to my dearly-beloved friends in that great country. (17 February 1923, Unfolding Destiny, page 13) Shoghi Effendi attaches great hopes to the activities of the friends in London, and may they some day by realised. (18 January 1924, Unfolding Destiny, page 23) Shoghi Effendi has gladly received the names of the elected body for the London Assembly and he wishes them all success from the bottom of his heart. That they may all help to vindicate still more strongly the great claim of our dear Cause in England, that they may succeed to increase daily the numbers of earnest Bahá'í workers and that they may mirror forth the great spirit of our beloved Master, is the fondest hope and the fervent prayer of our dear Guardian. (11 April 1926, Unfolding Destiny, page 48) I realise the special and peculiar difficulties that prevail in London and the nature of the obstacles with which they are confronted. I feel however that an earnest effort should be made to overcome them and that the members must arrange their affairs in such a way as to ensure their prompt attendance at 9 meetings which are held in the course of the year. This surely is not an insurmountable obstacle. (20 May 1926, Unfolding Destiny, page 54) He will pray for you and for the other members of the London Group that through your combined efforts an unprecedented progress be made there and numerous persons attracted to the precepts of the Cause. (23 October 1926, Unfolding Destiny, page 59) Now that the London centre has been transferred to a better locality we hope it will attract more attention and add to the number of attendants at the meetings. We should however, bear in mind that no matter how important the hall may be - the talks given and the unity manifested are of far greater significance. Shoghi Effendi has a special affection for the English friends, for he has been in their midst and knows most of them personally. He therefore wishes and prays fervently that their number may increase, and that they may render distinguished services to the Cause. Please assure them all of his prayers and extend to them his loving greetings. (circa January 1930, Unfolding Destiny, page 88) Aside from the fact that London is the heart of the British Empire, and as such commands an importance which few other centres in the world can equal and should consequently be raised to the status of one of the leading outposts of the Faith, it should be stated that now that the Administrative Order has at last been firmly established and is being increasingly consolidated in that centre, it is the supreme obligation of all the believers, both in Great Britain and other European countries, to assist by every means in hastening this internal development and growth. And it is quite evident that the formation of a Publishing Company along the lines suggested by the British N.S.A. is the greatest asset to such a development and expansion of the Cause in London and throughout England as a whole. (24 February 1937, Unfolding Destiny, page 114) Renewing to you and your dear fellow-members and to all the friends in London, the assurances of his prayers for your welfare and protection in these perilous days, and with his warmest greetings to you all.... (29 December 1939, Unfolding Destiny, page 135) He is happy to see that, in spite of the great physical and nervous strain which the believers of England are at present being subjected to -especially in centres like London - they yet persevere with the work of the Cause and the attraction of new souls. The Guardian does not feel that the friends should for a moment feel discouraged if they do not succeed in having large meetings or the public do not regularly attend, this is easily understandable in view of the severe ordeal which their present sufferings subject them to. However, the importance of broadcasting the seeds of the Cause far and wide can never be sufficiently stressed. It is the right and privilege of organised humanity to hear of the Faith and the Plan of Bahá'u'lláh in these days, and in this holy duty to their fellow men the Bahá'ís must not fail whatever may be the sadness of their personal plight, for they alone can truly see the future in the tragic present, and possess hope and strength to go on with the spiritual battle for the victory of the New Day. (20 August 1941, Unfolding Destiny, page 148) Now that the British Isles have a respite from intense aerial warfare, no doubt the friends, especially in London and other cities, find themselves more refreshed and consequently better able to carry on the work of the Cause. They should not lose any time in consolidating the teaching work, reinforcing new centres, and enlarging their numbers. (28 February 1942, Unfolding Destiny, page 150) It is true the Bahá'ís should try and live a normal healthy life. But we cannot for a moment overlook the abnormal state of the world. If there had not been believers ready to give their health, comfort, pleasure -everything, for the Cause in these dark days, the work would not have gone on. What are the sacrifices compared to keeping a beacon of the Light of Bahá'u'lláh burning in dark London all these war years? (17 October 1944, Unfolding Destiny, page 441) A city like London needs a really impressive, central and suitable room which will, on its own merits, create a favourable impression, and he hopes the friends will bear this in mind, and at the earliest possible date get quarters that are not in a basement. (3 March 1946, Unfolding Destiny, page 443) He has been pleased over the progress made in the teaching field abroad and at home; in the publication of Bahá'í literature in African languages; and, above all, by the purchase of the National Headquarters in London, and the formal dedication of the building, recently held. He feels sure that, now that the National Assembly has a befitting seat for its national affairs - a building which at the same time will solve the problem of the London Spiritual Assembly, through giving them a meeting-place - the work in both London and throughout the country will receive a new impetus. With every important step forward there is a new release of spiritual energy; and the founding of the National Haziratu'l-Quds is certainly a most important milestone in the progress of the Cause in the British Isles. (5 August 1955, Unfolding Destiny, page 349) VI: From Letters of the Universal House of Justice The members of the Universal House of Justice, all being in Haifa at the time of the election, were able to visit the Holy Shrines of Bahá'u'lláh, the Báb and of 'Abdu'l-Bahá where they prostrated themselves at the Sacred Thresholds and humbly sought strength and assistance in the mighty task before them. Later in London they have paid homage at the resting-place of Shoghi Effendi, the blessed and sacred bough of the Tree of Holiness. (30 April 1963, Statement to the First Bahá'í World Congress) The marvelous happenings which have transpired during and immediately after the twelve days of Ridván attest the greatness of the Cause of God, and fill every Bahá'í heart to overflowing with joy and gratitude... The celebration of the Most Great Jubilee in London must be described elsewhere. Suffice it to say now that this greatest gathering of Bahá'ís ever held in one place was permeated by a spirit of such bliss as could only have come from the outpourings of the Abhá Kingdom. The review of the progress of the Cause, the presentation of believers from the new races and countries of the world brought within the pale of the Faith during the beloved Guardian's Ten Year Crusade, the Knights of Bahá'u'lláh, those valiant souls who carried the banner of Bahá'u'lláh to the unopened and often inhospitable regions of the earth, the spontaneous outbursts of singing of "Alláh-u-Abhá", the informal gatherings, the constant greetings of Bahá'u'lláh's warriors known to each other only by name and service, the youth gatherings, the unprecedented publicity in the press, on radio and television, the daily stream of visitors to the beloved Guardian's resting place, the radiant faces and heightened awareness of the true and real brotherhood of the human race within the Kingdom of the Everlasting Father, are among the outstanding events of this supreme occasion, the crowning victory of the lifework of Shoghi Effendi... (7 May 1963, Message to National Conventions) This (27 Rutland Gate) is the national centre, the "home", one might say, of the Bahá'ís of the British Isles, and the love, warmth and atmosphere of spirituality and service that must stream out from this centre are a vital part of the life of that Community. It is the place to which Bahá'ís, not only of the London area, but of the whole country, should feel drawn when they are in the capital; it is the place to which Bahá'í visitors from abroad will naturally gravitate and where they should be able to make their first loving contact with the British Bahá'ís; it is also the centre to which non-Bahá'ís will undoubtedly direct their steps and address their enquiries as the proclamation of the Faith gains momentum. The position of London as the heart of the British Commonwealth, and, above all, as the site of the resting-place of Shoghi Effendi confers both a special responsibility and special blessing upon the Hazíratu'l-Quds in that city. (1 December 1967 to the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the United Kingdom) WITH FEELINGS IMMENSE ELATION ANNOUNCE BAHA'I COMMUNITIES ALL CONTINENTS JOYFUL NEWS FIRST VISIT BY BAHA'I REIGNING MONARCH TO RESTING PLACE BELOVED SHOGHI EFFENDI WELL NIGH NINETEEN YEARS FOLLOWING HIS PASSING. HIS HIGHNESS MALIETOA TANUMAFILI II OF WESTERN SAMOA COURSE HIS RECENT VISIT LONDON ATTAINED THIS INESTIMABLE BOUNTY. HIS HIGHNESS ACCOMPANIED BY SMALL DELEGATION FRIENDS HEADED BY HAND CAUSE GIACHERY INCLUDING HANDS CAUSE KHADEM VARQA AND FIVE MEMBERS NATIONAL ASSEMBLY UNITED KINGDOM PROCEEDED CEMETERY PARTICIPATED DEEPLY MOVING HIGHLY DIGNIFIED VISITATION RESTING PLACE SIGN GOD ON EARTH WHOSE LIFELONG HEROIC LABOURS ACHIEVED WORLDWIDE SPREAD GLORIOUS CAUSE BAHA'U'LLAH. FOLLOWING PRAYERS DEVOTIONS AND EXPRESSIONS APPRECIATION GRATITUDE BY HIS HIGHNESS HE MET WITH RADIANT SPIRIT LARGE GATHERING BELIEVERS ASSEMBLED PRECINCTS GRAVE TO WELCOME HIM AND TO WHOM HE CONVEYED GREETINGS HIS FELLOW SAMOAN BAHA'IS AND HIS HOPE GROWTH FAITH FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH ALL OVER WORLD. IN HOLY LAND SYNCHRONIZING WITH THESE EVENTS HANDS CAUSE OTHER MEMBERS INTERNATIONAL TEACHING CENTER JOINED MEMBERS HOUSE JUSTICE SPECIAL VISIT BAHJI WHERE FERVENT PRAYERS WERE OFFERED SACRED THRESHOLD MOST HOLY SHRINE IN THANKSGIVING HIGHLY SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT WHICH REPRESENTS PRELUDE TO FULFILLMENT LONG CHERISHED DESIRE 'ABDU'L-BAHA AND SHOGHI EFFENDI WITNESS PILGRIM KINGS PAY THEIR HUMBLE TRIBUTE AT HOLY SHRINES FOUNDERS OUR FAITH IN SPIRITUAL HEART PLANET. FERVENTLY PRAYING THIS JOYOUS NEWS WILL STRENGTHEN RESOLVE SUPPORTERS MOST GREAT NAME EVERY LAND REDOUBLE THEIR EFFORTS TO FORGE AHEAD HOWEVER ARDUOUS THE TASKS HOWEVER SEEMINGLY INSURMOUNTABLE THE OBSTACLES UNTIL EVERY GOAL WORLDWIDE PLAN IS SPEEDILY AND FULLY CONSUMMATED. (5 October 1978, to all National Spiritual Assemblies) The further development and beautification of the cemetery area surrounding the resting place of the Guardian is of vital concern to the Universal House of Justice and the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom. Until recently, this process has been limited by the fact that the Faith owned only a small part of the land there. However, this area has been beautified and maintained in an admirable manner as a result of the dedicated work of the believers residing in London. More recently, through the diligent endeavours of the National Spiritual Assembly of the United Kingdom, and the generous contributions of several believers, it has been possible to acquire a much larger section of the cemetery; as a result the way will be open in the future to more extensively develop the environs of the Guardian's grave, while ensuring that the graves of the others buried there are treated with the appropriate respect. (29 March 1989 written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to an individual) VII. References to London in other Bahá'í Literature 'Abdu'l-Bahá's visits to London No more brilliant a stage for the opening act of this great drama could have been desired than London, capital city of the largest and most cosmopolitan empire the world has ever known. In the eyes of the little groups of believers who had made the practical arrangements and who longed for the sight of His face, the trip was a triumph far surpassing their brightest hopes. (Century of Light, page 20) Very greatly was 'Abdu'l-Bahá's sojourn in London appreciated; very greatly his departure regretted. He left behind him many, many friends. His love had kindled love. His heart had opened to the West and the Western heart had closed around this patriarchal presence from the East. (Eric Hammond, 'Abdu'l-Bahá in London, page 13) Shoghi Effendi and London The Guardian was always keenly interested in political matters, kept himself well-informed, and enjoyed such sights as the House of Lords and the House of Commons present. I remember that after our marriage, when we first went to London together, he took me to the House of Commons and we sat in the visitors' gallery during one of the sessions. If this was a big experience for me - still so dazed and overcome by the recent honour of being permitted to be so near to the Sign of God on earth - one can imagine how much it thrilled and impressed Shoghi Effendi as a young man. He became very familiar with London during this period in England and visited its famous sites. One more than one occasion, when we went to such places together as Westminster Abbey, St Paul's, the Tower of London, the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the City, Kew Gardens and so on, I realized how many associations this famous city had left him from his student days. (Rúhíyyih Rabbaní, The Priceless Pearl, page 33) The passing of Shoghi Effendi A befitting and magnificent monument to the beloved Guardian's precious memory has been raised up above the sacred earth in London which enshrines his blessed remains, a memorial to the erection of which the believers from every corner of the earth had the privilege of contributing. (Conclave Message 1958 from the Hands of the Cause to the Bahá'ís of East and West) The monument erected on the grave of the beloved Guardian was completed just two days before the anniversary of his passing; the gleaming pillar of pure white Carrara marble, resting on a base of three steps and surmounted by a Corinthian capital bearing a globe of the world, all of the same stone, rose up against the grey autumn skies of London, in its simplicity and beauty a befitting memorial to that great being who himself created so much beauty on the slopes of Mt.Carmel and around the Holiest Spot on this planet, the Tomb of Bahá'u'lláh. Perched, as if about to take off in flight, or just settling from the skies, a gilded bronze eagle, the emblem of so many victories, crowns the monument. A dignified white stone balustrade, surmounted at the four corners by ornate stone urns, encloses the inner garden where the grave lies; adjoining this sanctuary, and constituting its approach, is a second larger garden surrounded by a red brick wall; a red path stretches from the two white steps leading down from the inner garden straight to the beautiful gilded wrought iron gates at the bottom of the second garden - which constitute the main entrance to the Guardian's resting-place. On either side of these gates two cypress trees, reminiscent of the hundreds of cypress trees the Guardian himself planted in the Shrine gardens at the World Centre of the Faith, stand guard. Two lovely weeping holly trees, two white pedestals with white Carrara marble vases planted with flowers, decorate the grounds as one approaches, through this outer garden, that sacred spot where the Beloved of our hearts is laid to rest. (Ridván Message 1959 from the Hands of the Cause to Annual Bahá'í Conventions) It was in London, on November 1957 that the precious Sign of God on earth, the Guardian of the Cause of God, took leave of this earthly life. To the funeral came the Hands of the Cause, National Spiritual Assembly members and believers from every part of the world. It would be premature to estimate the influence of this mysterious event on the souls and fortunes of the British Bahá'í Community, but his resting-place in London, since that day, has become a point of pilgrimage for believers from many lands. (From The Bahá'í World, Volume XIII, page 274) The First Bahá'í World Congress, 1963 As we cast about for a befitting venue for this great Congress planned by Shoghi Effendi, we found that the unique and beautiful Royal Albert Hall, in the heart of London, famous as a centre for concerts and conferences, which accommodates about 7,000 people could be rented for our great occasion. Bahá'ís from all over the world, including Hands and administrators, Knights of Bahá'u'lláh and pioneers, were present, and the audience was addressed by members of the Institutions of both the Hands and the Universal House of Justice. (Rúhíyyih Khánum, The Ministry of the Custodians, page 21) When the Most Great Jubilee, the Bahá'í World Congress, was celebrated in London at Ridván 1963, nearly seven thousand triumphant Bahá'ís, gathered from around the globe, were privileged to greet face to face their historic first Universal House of Justice, elected only a few days earlier in the Holy Land. On this occasion the Bahá'ís paid homage at the grave of their Guardian, and the newly-established House of Justice expressed 'profound admiration for the heroic work' of the Chief Stewards of the Faith who in the final six years of the World Crusade had, in the shadow of the Guardian, courageously led the Bahá'í world community to complete victory. (Eunice Braun, From Vision to Victory, page xii) It was fitting that London was the place chosen for this joyous Jubilee, after it became evident that it was impossible to hold it in Baghdád. It was London that had welcomed 'Abdu'l-Bahá a little over half a century ago, and it was in London that, midway during the Crusade, Shoghi Effendi, beloved Guardian of the Cause of God, had passed away and been laid to rest there, a brief five and a half years before... The happy jubilant Bahá'ís, many in native costumes, thronged across Knightsbridge, halting the traffic on this busy thoroughfare, crowding up the steps of the huge hall, eager to witness the opening of the first Bahá'í World Congress. The familiar surroundings of London seemed to be of secondary importance as though, in this moment of history, they fulfilled their purpose in serving as a backdrop for the holding of the Most Great Jubilee of the declaration of Bahá'u'lláh. Nothing in London, nothing in the world, would be the same again. A new era was inaugurated: here was tangible, visible evidence of it! (Beatrice Ashton, The Most Great Jubilee, from The Bahá'í World, Volume XIV, pages 57-59) Immediately following the World Congress the Universal House of Justice met for several days in the council room of the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá'ís of the British Isles at 27 Rutland Gate, dealing with essential matters concerning its establishment and initial functioning. At the same time, the Hands of the Cause of God were meeting in conclave in another room of the same Hazíratul-Quds, preparing a first draft of the next teaching plan for submission to the Universal House of Justice and arranging the future disposition of their own work. (Geoffrey W.Marks, Editor. Messages from the Universal House of Justice, 1963- 1986, page 7) |