Two accused men were freed because someone at a consulate compared a handwriting, a signature and a seal, and found the letter against them forged. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá recounts this with gratitude, and the episode holds in miniature what defending the Faith involves: evidence patiently examined, people protected, and the truth allowed to speak for itself. Bahá’u’lláh makes every believer, according to ability, a refuter of attacks on the Cause, but by pen and tongue, never by sword or violence, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá adds that the language must be moderate, tempered and infinitely courteous, whatever tone the opponent chose. A sincere doubt deserves an answer rather than a rebuke, and a believer’s conduct is read by others as the conduct of the religion itself. Beside these principles stand urgent instructions from times of danger, which belong to their circumstances. The First Epistle of Peter joins readiness to give a reason for one’s hope with meekness and a good conscience, so that the manner of an answer becomes part of its evidence [1]. From here the path leads into wisdom in speech and action, the firmness of the Covenant against those who would breach it, and the careful review of what is published in the Faith’s name.
Praise be to God that those two oppressed ones were freed, while that ignorant oppressor Sayed Abdul-Hussein, editor of the Najaf newspaper, fell into the pit of humiliation with utmost degradation. Among the divine confirmations was that they investigated at the Baghdad consulate and discovered the truth, not opening their mouths to allegations but investigating and examining secretly with complete composure, privately comparing that letter with Abdu'l-Baha's handwriting, signature and seal. It became clear that it was a fabrication and forgery. In any case, give thanks that this matter became clear and evident.
It is my hope that thou mayest succeed in writing thy book. However, the language should be moderate, tempered, and infinitely courteous. Look not at the language used by that hostile writer, for he was prejudiced and unrefined. Any person with the slightest degree of fairness will understand that his writing is totally biased and inspired by enmity. This is enough proof that what he hath written is spurious.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1921-Apr-29, to Jean B Masson -- AB05283)
03
However, in truth, if a soul were to be found who harbored doubts due to the intimations of the ungodly, it would surely be appreciated were he to mention his doubts, for we in this land have no occupation and stand ready, should anyone experience any doubt, to provide an answer according to our station and capacity and his station, that perchance through divine grace his heart might be sanctified from vain imaginings and empty suppositions.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Kitab-i-Badi', 1283 ca. [1866-1867], to Aqa Mirza Mihdi Rashti -- BH00004)
04
It is incumbent upon all men, each according to his ability, to refute the arguments of those that have attacked the Faith of God. … He that wisheth to promote the Cause of the one true God, let him promote it through his pen and tongue, rather than have recourse to sword or violence. … If any man were to arise to defend, in his writings, the Cause of God against its assailants, such a man, however inconsiderable his share, shall be so honored in the world to come that the Concourse on high would envy his glory.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Lawh-i-Salman I, to Shaykh Salman Hindijani -- BH00066)
05
Our methods are different, we do not attack, neither calumniate; we do not wish to dispute with them; we bring forth proofs and arguments; we invite them to confute our statements. They cannot answer us, but instead, they write all they can think of against the Divine Messenger, Baha'u'llah.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1911-Nov-20 in Paris -- ABU0181)
06
Say: Beware, O people, lest ye commit that which would dishonor the Cause of your Lord, the Mighty, the Loving, for whatsoever ye commit, the people attribute to the Source of the Cause, as ye yourselves witness.
The second of these spiritual standards which apply to the possessor of knowledge is that he should be the defender of his faith. It is obvious that these holy words do not refer exclusively to searching out the implications of the Law, observing the forms of worship, avoiding greater and lesser sins, practicing the religious ordinances, and by all these methods, protecting the Faith. They mean rather that the whole population should be protected in every way; that every effort should be exerted to adopt a combination of all possible measures to raise up the Word of God, increase the number of believers, promote the Faith of God and exalt it and make it victorious over other religions.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Madaniyyih (The Secret of Divine Civilization), 1875, to The People of Iran -- AB00004)
08
Be vigilant in all regions regarding the Cause of God, lest any matter arise that might cause harm to the loved ones of that land, for these souls are known by the name of God and their protection is necessary in all circumstances.
(Bahá’u’lláh, ca. 1289-1290?, to Tabib et al -- BH02386)
09
In times when the oppressed friends were in utmost danger, they would protect and defend. This will not be forgotten.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Sep-05, to Mirza Muhammad Baqir Khan Shirazi -- AB00491)
10
First, it is not permissible for this servant to engage in confrontation with such persons, as it would cause rebellion and cut off hope and lead to despair in that author.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Abu'l-Fadl Gulpaygani -- AB06478)
11
The previous publications caused no harm to the Cause of God, and I hope that, on the contrary, they will yield positive results. We harbor no ill feelings toward him; rather, we have guided all to kindness and non-interference. Even now, whatever he may write in his new book will cause us no harm, though it may ultimately lead to his own regret.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Feb-28, to Aqa Mirza Ali Muhammad (Egypt) -- AB01908)
12
Similarly, if possible, form a group of knowledgeable friends to respond to the fabrications of these souls. This will cause the friends to gain proficiency in the teachings, glad-tidings and answering doubts, and to progress in degrees of knowledge and understanding.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Jan-22, to Mustafa Rumi -- AB03380)
13
Therefore, print and publish the poem, and it will also be published in the Star of the West. And regarding refuting the external fabrications and proving the alteration of the book [Nuqtatu'l-Kaf]], you must render a distinguished service at the Divine Threshold. Your honor, along with all the capable friends, must unite on this matter. Include Jinab-i-Samandar as a partner in this matter so that everyone's knowledge can be gathered and a healing, sufficient response can be written.
You should properly record in the margins his additions, alterations, sophistry and injustices, and explain these to the seeking souls in that region.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Nov-17, to Abbas Qabil -- AB06681)
15
But the Babi chiefs composed treatises against them, and set in order replies according to their own thought. Were these to be discussed in detail it would conduce to prolixity, and our object is the statement of history, not of arguments for believing or rejecting; but of some of the replies the gist is this: that they held the Proof as supreme, and the evidence as outweighing traditions, considering the former as the root and the latter as the branch, and saying, "If the branch agree not with the root it serves not as an argument and is unworthy of reliance; for the reported consequence has no right to oppose itself to the established principle, and cannot argue against it."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Maqaliy-i-Shakhs Sayyah (A Traveller's Narrative), 1886 ca. -- AB00003)
16
O thou who gazest upon the Kingdom of God! In the days when the Ancient Beauty and the Most Great Name illumined the horizon of Iraq with the lights of His dawning, all the leaders of the peoples - whether scholars, men of learning, princes or nobles - would present themselves in His holy court and verbally pose their most difficult and complex questions. These would be answered immediately from His pure lips with the most wondrous utterance and perfect exposition. They would then depart in complete contentment, acknowledgment and recognition of the all-encompassing power of the All-Merciful.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Dec or <, to Ali Muhammad Khan Tabib -- AB00125)
17
Though not wearing the garb of the people of learning, We have again and again faced and reasoned with men of great scholarship in both Nur and Mazindaran, and have succeeded in persuading them of the truth of this Revelation. We never flinched in Our determination; We never hesitated to accept the challenge from whatever direction it came.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Words spoken in the house of Aqay-i-Kalim to Nabil-i-A'zam 2, 1306-05-08 ca. [1889-Jan-10], to words to Nabil-i-A'zam -- BHU0002)
18
In any case, yesterday there was a detailed discussion proving His station and the power and universal influence of His Word, with clear proofs and brilliant evidences presented.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Aug, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB01951)
19
The gathering with the divines of Sangalaj and the presentation of luminous proofs and conclusive testimonies was a cause of great joy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1920-Feb-10, to Fadil Shirazi -- AB09302)
20
All opponents know that we prove Christ's Prophethood to the Jews with proofs and evidences, establish the universal Prophethood of Muhammad to the Christians with rational, traditional and conclusive proofs, and demonstrate to the Zoroastrians with clear evidence the Prophethood of all Prophets and Messengers from Adam to the Seal, sacrificing our lives in the path of the Prophets and crying out under the sword.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-Dec-09, to Hasan Khurasani -- AB00283)
21
Many prejudiced missionaries had written voluminous books against the prophethood of Mohamad and we cut clear through those iron walls of misrepresentations and made manifest the truth as the sun in midday.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1913-Nov-12 in Port Said -- ABU1230)
22
"We should investigate the truth. Refer to history. You have striven for eleven hundred years. Have you caused the name of Moses to reach Constantinople? If you mention the name there, they say they have never heard of it. The Bible had not reached Damascus. But Christ spread the Bible all over the world and had it translated two hundred times. Can you find a single home in America without a Bible? Who did this? Had Christ not come, the name of Moses would not have reached America. Christ has proven that the Jews are the chosen of God. Only Christ has proved that Daniel, Solomon, Moses, Jeremiah, etc., were all Prophets of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Latimer, Esslemont, Randall et al, spoken on 1919-Nov-21 -- ABU0693)
23
They had heard many things which were not true, and I wanted to dispel those wrong notions- thus they may realize that even in the realm of philosophy and scientific attainments the followers of this Cause are not deficient.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Ahmad Sohrab, spoken on 1914-May-02 -- ABU1103)
24
In this day, the most useful books are those which demonstrate the validity of the Cause with logical proofs, intellectual evidences and spiritual arguments.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Horace Holley, spoken at Baltimore Hotel on 1913-May-11 -- ABU3075)
25
There are times that one is obliged to speak, otherwise the opponents go away and spread the rumor that we have been unable to solve their problems.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to the friends, spoken on 1914-Mar-30 -- ABU1390)
26
Regarding the new book that has been written in rejection of God and His Manifestations, you had requested permission to write a response. This is very appropriate. When someone from among the doubtful commits such an excess, people of fairness must strive to dispel his tyranny. Write a convincing and complete response.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Dec-25, to Haji Mirza Siyyid Ali Fadil Isfahani -- AB00768)
27
Dr. Wilson, a priest in Iran who is heedless and hostile to the Cause of God, has authored a book to mislead people, similar to books written against Christ during and after Christ's time by the Pharisees and Roman scholars. … Now the best course of action is for you to author a rebuttal to that book with utmost eloquence and excellence, print it and publish it.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Jul-22, to Jean B Masson -- AB02955)
28
This servant's hope is that in those regions, in a short time, souls will arise who will compose treatises and writings proving the Cause of God with utmost eloquence and fluency and the ultimate power and might.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Mar-29, to Muhammad Tahir Malmiri -- AB03963)
29
Regarding the treatise (or pamphlet) which thou didst compile in proof of the appearance of the Kingdom of God--thou didst well! I shall read it at a leisure time, and ask God to aid thee in compiling other useful writings in demonstration of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909 or <, to Mary Frances Roe -- AB03254)
30
When, O my God, I had taken my station facing the Spot around which circle those that are nigh unto Thee, lo, there was before me a written letter, a guarded tablet, and an outspread roll containing cogent proofs, clear testimonies and lucid evidences in refutation of one who had striven to repudiate Thy truth.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Mirza Abu'l-Fadl Gulpaygani -- AB03562)
31
The sheikh of Islam, of Caucasia, wrote against the Cause. Some of the friends answered him. Sheikh of Islam wrote a second time a criticism. After that, Agha Mirza Abul-Fazl wrote a full, convincing answer. It surprised the sheikh.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1914-Jan-24 -- ABU0594)
32
His Honor Mirza Abu'l-Fadl has written a treatise answering the criticisms of a London preacher. Each one of you should have a copy.[1] Read, memorize and reflect upon it. Then, when accusations and criticisms are advanced by those unfavorable to the Cause, you will be well armed.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Address to the Baha'is at 1901 18th St. NW in Washington, 1912-Nov-10 -- ABU0554)
33
The books of Sijjin have become the cause of humiliation in all regions, therefore I assigned His Honor Abu'l-Fadl to write a response, and truly with utmost effort he is occupied in writing the response. Soon, through the confirmation of the Abha Kingdom, I hope that the written response will be completed and distributed in all regions.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906 ca., to Muhammad Isma'il -- AB11720)
34
O Lord! Verily Thy servant Abu'l-Fadl hath arisen to aid Thy Cause, to silence Thy opponents, to compel Thy disputants, and to break the power of those who war against Thee, by spreading proofs and presenting decisive evidence with clear exposition, refuting the doubts of the party of falsehood who are committed to sophistry and concealment so as to make the matter unclear to those weak in mind and heart.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906 ca., to Mirza Abu'l-Fadl Gulpaygani -- AB11686)
35
O God! Assist Your servant Abu'l-Fada'il to prove Your religion, proclaim Your proof, clarify Your evidence, exalt Your Word, repel Your opponents, turn back Your adversaries, silence Your enemies, and confound those who dispute against the Truth.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Abu'l-Fadl Gulpaygani -- AB11858)
36
Thus it became necessary that an articulate response, a clear exposition, and a brilliant proof be established against the cawing of the cawer.
Although the Blessed Beauty with the Most Exalted Pen in the Most Glorious Kingdom wrote a convincing response to Muhammad Khan - a response that cut off his tongue and made his speech mute forever, never to be heard from again - nevertheless I hope that through this service you will brighten your countenance, burn away the veils of the ignorant, melt them with the fire of the love of God, endure hardships and difficulties, play a sweet melody in those regions, and make all the friends joyous, delighted and enamored.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906 ca., to Muhammad Isma'il -- AB11669)
37
The matter of the reply to Browne is important and takes precedence over other writings.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Jun-12, to Mirza Abu'l-Fadl Gulpaygani -- AB04565)
38
You must certainly strive with all your might to make clear that this history of Haji Mirza Jani has been poisoned and distorted, and that the Azalis conspired with Edward Browne to introduce these calumnies and intrigues.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Jun-12, to Mirza Muhammad Hasan Adib -- AB06329)
39
Half of this person's book consists of fabrications and he has altered and changed many words. Soon he will find himself in manifest loss.
In Azerbaijan, with perfect wisdom spread word that this person's writings were purely intended as slander. If you want the truth of this matter, the books and treatises of proofs are available - observe that none of these fabrications are mentioned in them.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Usku'i, Haydar Ali (Son of Karbala'i Hasan of Matanih) -- AB00507)
40
My kind friend,
Some distinguished people think that by giving currency to tales and legends the Cause of the Baha'is can be discredited. Amongst them is this person [Za'imu'd-Dawlih], who, encouraged by some wealthy Persians in Egypt and hoping for support from known and unknown, has recently devised to write a history ["Miftah Bab al-Abwab"] in order to cast aspersions on Baha'is, introduce such themes that would please the divines in Iran, gladden the hearts of the oppressors, and arouse the intense hostility of the people of this region, that perchance in Syria too, as in Yazd, an assault would be made on these exiles.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-12 ca., to Edward Granville Browne -- AB12280)
41
Through his and his master's decree, the horizon of treachery hath appeared and the dawning-place of falsehood and calumny hath become manifest. Among other things he hath said that someone went to 'Akka and returned saying "Praise be to God, I am relieved." He said "I asked what this enigmatic statement meant." The man related "I went to 'Akka and attained the presence. For four hours they attempted to write two lines but could not."
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307-02-21 [1889-Oct-17], to Haji Mirza Haydar Ali Isfahani et al -- BH00461)
42
The editor of this newspaper wished to cast aspersions of corruption, yet praise be to God, he published in the very newspaper itself a letter which is the foundation of reform and reconciliation. Read that letter to people and translate it for them. For any fair-minded person it is sufficient proof that the servants of Baha'u'llah are the mercy of the Lord.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Shaykh Muhsin Naimi Naini (Dabir Muaid) -- AB12278)
43
As for my own letters, they are of no importance except for some detailed letters written to dispel people's delusions or journalists' fabrications or to clarify the spurious content of certain books and treatises written in rejection of this Cause - there would be no harm in publishing such letters.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Sep-07, to Ali-Akbar Rawhani Muhibulsultan -- AB11825)
44
A response was written and sent to be published and distributed. Show it to some of the impartial members of the assembly but do not give them copies.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-Oct-24, to Ibn-i-Abhar -- AB11639)
45
Whenever appropriate, they should explain to the Ambassador what the Blessed Beauty, may my spirit be sacrificed for His loved ones, has said about obedience to kings and loyalty and goodwill toward crowned rulers, especially the prayers He has offered for His Majesty the Sultan and His Majesty the Shah of Iran, so that the truth of the matter becomes clear and evident to the authorities. For enemies both familiar and foreign have risen and will continue to rise with endless calumnies and accusations to completely obscure the truth of the matter.
… As previously mentioned, you should accomplish your task step by step with utmost caution, care and calm, lest this matter should create alarm and perturbation in the hearts of the people who, being ignorant of the actual facts, would conceive the idea of a large organisation.
When these Yahyayi Babis, who are the enemies of the Baha'is, commit any shameful act, they accuse the Baha'is, and the ill-wishers cry out that all are corrupt. But the truth will not remain hidden - it must surely become evident and manifest.
Therefore do not tremble at these calumnies, but rather follow the sacred texts by obeying the government and serving His Imperial Majesty with the utmost sincerity and trustworthiness.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Jun-22, to Ali-Akbar Rawhani Muhibulsultan -- AB01483)
47
When these are firmly established, private assemblies shall be abolished. However, since public gatherings cannot at present be established in various lands, as they would cause the agitation of the wicked and the interference of the ungodly, there is no objection to establishing private gatherings wherein the number of those present corresponds to the sacred number of the Greatest Name. The purpose of this is to prevent large crowds from gathering, which would cause alarm, distress and the lamentation of the ignorant.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1897 ca., to Spiritual Assembly -- AB01546)
48
The purpose of the "nine by nine" at the time of Mirza Tarazu'llah's arrival was that the friends should not gather in large numbers in one place, for the ill-wishers are extremely hostile and lying in wait. As soon as they see several people together, they become suspicious and resort to slander.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906-Jun-13, to Muhammad Ali Kashani -- AB11636)
49
Explain to the loved ones that the rending of the veil to such an extent will be the cause of great agitation, and the harm thereof will reach to the Holy Land. Great caution is necessary.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1921-Oct-18, to Shoghi Effendi -- AB01641)
50
None should acknowledge that which he possesseth, for the protection of those who have turned towards the Countenance - a command from the presence of One mighty and powerful.
… O concourse of loved ones! Conceal the pearls of divine knowledge from the eyes of the treacherous ones. None should acknowledge the Cause of God before the faces of those through whose tyranny the dwellers of the Most Exalted Paradise did lament, and every perceiving mystic did cry out.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1302-02 [1884-Nov], to Baha'is of Hamadan et al -- BH02772)
51
Any Iranian or non-Iranian person who comes from the East without having a letter from me bearing my signature, even if they are among my relatives, the friends must absolutely not accept them nor allow them into their gatherings. For wolves will come from Iran to those regions to tear apart the divine sheep and cause corruption and discord, especially those associated with Mirza Yahya.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1913-Sep-30, to Helen S Goodall -- AB01202)
52
You must protect the Cause of God and write to everyone and awaken them that they must absolutely not meet with any Iranian person without a document from me in their hand with my writing and signature.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1913-Sep-23, to Charles Mason Remey -- AB03122)
53
Any Persian, whether Baha'i, or belonging to the ancient religions of Persia--in short, any Persian--without carrying in his hand a letter either in my handwriting, or signed with my signature, the believers must not associate with him or speak to him, even if he is Shoghi Effendi or Rouhi Effendi (the two grandsons of 'Abdu'l-Baha). The friends must demand of him before anything else, his credential letter, written in my handwriting, or signed with my signature.
Hereafter, if any Persian or Oriental come to those parts, even though he be from the very city of Akka, if ye find he does not possess a letter written by the hand and sealed by the seal of Abdul-Baha, you must decidedly avoid him.
Because some sects will send certain men to mingle with you in order to throw suspicion upon those who are weak, therefore avoid them carefully.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-Apr-11, to George Lesch -- AB04527)
56
But the friends must be aware and alert, and eschew the company of such masters of deceit, and if they see someone who has supporters and followers, they must exercise great care and find out what plans are in his heart and what ambitions motivate his mind, since these people have no motive but to infiltrate the Faith.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken ca. 1904, from notes of Youness Khan Afroukhteh -- ABU1268)
57
Would I not be responsible to Baha'u'llah if I stand aloof and do not stop the man who with an axe in his hand is trying to undermine the foundation of the religion of God? Should I utter no word and approve his destructive work? I am not interfering with the dictates of his conscience. I simply say if he desires to be a laborer in this edifice he must build and not destroy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1914-Jul-10 in Haifa -- ABU0368)
58
Such souls are nothing but pure harm to The Cause of God, and it is very well that they go out, for the abominable deeds of such souls are like unto an axe at the root of The Cause.
And as for the matter of the aforementioned person - if, as you wrote, he is occupied with raising doubts, certainly vigilance and protection of the Cause of God is necessary.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Jan-14, to Hand of the Cause Ali Muhammad Ibn Asdaq -- AB05797)
60
You must exercise the utmost protection regarding others, especially the leaves of the blessed tree, lest anyone cast doubts and misgivings upon them verbally or in writing.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903 ca., to Afnan, Mirza Mahmud son of Muhammad Taqi Afnan -- AB03534)
61
Therefore the firm and steadfast friends must be ready and prepared so that if the Holy Land becomes disordered, they may protect the Cause of God, gather together the loved ones of God, and raise high the Word of God until all the world awakens - so that no weakness may come to the Cause of God from the turmoil in the Holy Land.
If possible, you yourself should travel to that area and, with the utmost kindness and affection, block this breach of loss and strive to awaken them, answering the contents of the papers of doubts so that no one else can make inroads.
O ye members of the shining assembly! Each one of you must resist doubts (or false rumors) in those parts like unto a great barrier, until the invisible confirmations may appear and merciful assistance may become manifest.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1904 ca., to Spiritual Assembly of Cincinnati, OH -- AB03619)
64
The friends of God must, like clear verses, dispel doubts and drive away that unknown ignorant one through the power of proof.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903 ca., to Mirza Abbas Khan Aminul-Vizarah -- AB06797)
65
Unsheath from the scabbard of thy mouth a tongue like unto the sword of Haydar, and charge the ranks of those who follow ambiguous texts.
In any spot in the Caucasus, as soon as news arrives of these foolish ones, that soul must, like a piercing flame and striking lightning and swooping eagle, arrive and drive away that failing bat.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1901 or <, to Shaykh Ahmad Muallim Usku'i -- AB03654)
67
A few foxes have taken to prancing about in the field and plain, and several hyenas have fallen upon the sheep of God.
Since thou art a lion, thou must make an attack and show forth thy might, and drive away these weak animals so that the sheep and birds may burst into such melody in the gardens of the King of Manifestation as to astound the consciousness of the people of the world.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Ghadanfar -- AB08803)
68
But the Hands of the Cause of God must strive night and day to utterly demolish these calumnies, else the satans lie in wait, and the wolves of malice, in fellowship with every heedless soul, secretly whisper their promptings. Even as they have turned Brown upside down, ere long that hapless one shall discover that following such irreligious souls yielded no mighty gain, but rather manifest loss.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Jan-16, to Hands of the Cause of God -- AB00101)
69
Through the protection, preservation and confirmation of the Ancient Beauty, I hope that the Hands of the Cause of God, may the glory of God be upon them, will, like bars of iron, protect the mighty fortress of the Cause from the attack of others.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Hand of the Cause Ali Muhammad Ibn Asdaq -- AB04925)
70
Let them be a mighty fortress to defend His Faith, an impregnable citadel for the hosts of the Ancient Beauty. Let them faithfully guard the edifice of the Cause of God from every side; let them become the bright stars of His luminous skies. For the hordes of darkness are assailing this Cause from every direction, and the peoples of the earth are intent on extinguishing this evident Light. And since all the kindreds of the world are mounting their attack, how can our attention be diverted, even for a moment? Assuredly be cognizant of these things, be watchful, and guard the Cause of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Baha'is of Qazvin, et al -- AB00034)
71
O Ali! Exert the utmost endeavor and guard the edifice of the Cause from the thieves. Consider the physical house: if slumber overtaketh its guardians, assuredly the thieves will enter and intrude. However, if the guardians remain engaged in their watch and protection, the thieves shall never gain access.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Lawh-i-'Ali, ca. 1289-1290?, to Mulla Ali Akbar Shahmirzadi et al -- BH00718)
72
Great care and caution are needed so that no breach occurs in the mighty fortress of God's Cause.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1895-Aug or <, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB01591)
73
The mighty fortress of God's Cause must be protected from the arrows of hatred and malice of such persons. Otherwise, the very foundation of God's religion will be completely destroyed.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Husayn brother of Ali Muhammad Varqa -- AB02900)
74
Ye are God's hosts upon earth. Guard ye the fortress of My Cause from every doubting transgressor.
(Bahá’u’lláh, ca. 1289-1290?, to Ali Qabl-i-Muhammad -- BH04976)
75
It is incumbent upon you to strive to safeguard the Cause to the extent of your power, lest the Pharaohs prevail over the hosts of God.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1290 [1873] or earlier, to Zaynul-Muqarrabin -- BH04372)
76
Iscariot must not be forgotten; the Divine sheep must constantly be guarded against devouring wolves; the light of the Cause of God must be protected from contrary winds by means of a glass chimney; the innocent birds must be shielded against the birds of prey; blooming roses should be saved from the outstretched hands of injustice; and the lambs of God must be fortified against the fierce and ravenous animals.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1914-Jul-08, to Roy C Wilhelm -- AB05591)
77
Therefore, O human nightingales, strive to know the Friend and cut off the autumn's transgressing hand from this flower of the All-Merciful's Paradise. That is, O friends of God, gird up firmly the loins of service and protect the people of the world from the deceit and hypocrisy of the people of discord.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Gul va Bulbul (The nightingale and the owl) -- BH01361)
78
But the guardians must protect that garden and meadow from autumn winds and preserve it safe and secure from the hands of thieves and transgression of neighbors.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1917 ca., to Muhammad Durukhsh Baghistani -- AB11757)
79
However, a mighty effort is needed so that the pearl of divine love may remain safe in the heart from the guile of thieves and traitors.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1290-05 [1873-Jun], to Wife of Hasan -- BH06120)
80
Guard thou the pearls of the love of God lest they be stolen by every rejected traitor.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1293-05 [1876-May], to Sakinih wife of Muhammad Rahim Attar -- BH09838)
81
They must be vigilant at all times concerning the Trust of God, lest the treacherous seize and steal it.
Say: O friends! Guard the divine trust through the hosts of steadfastness and righteousness, lest the armies of idle fancies and vain imaginings seize and plunder it.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1290-05 [1873-Jun], to Jinab-i-Nabil qabl 'Ali -- BH05682)
83
We have answered that which thou didst mention in thy adorned Tablets, and We have made thee a king that thou mayest recount that which the eternal mirrors relate concerning Him Who is their Revealer, and that thou mayest be vigilant lest there cross thy mind that which would extinguish the fire of His heart, and that thou mayest be unto Him and unto that which He desireth to convey regarding the remembrance of God a beauteous protector. Guard thou it and thyself, that neither His knowledge nor thine own be encompassed by loss, and make ye mention of God's guides with beauteous remembrance.
(The Báb, Letter to Mirza Asadu'llah Dayyan, to Dayyan -- BB00567)
84
The protection of the Cause is incumbent upon thee.
Convey greetings to all the loved ones, and exert utmost effort in protecting and preserving the Cause that no harm may occur.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1290 [1873] or earlier, to Aqa Mirza Mihdi -- BH05139)
86
Protect ye the weak lest they follow every remote clamourer. From their outward appearance thou hearest the voice of men, but from their inward reality We hear the croaking of ravens.
(Bahá’u’lláh, ca. 1289-1290?, to Haj Abdur-Rahim -- BH05087)
87
It is necessary to prevent people from entering such places and to make every possible effort to protect the Cause from all directions, lest the satans make a breach.
The enemies of the Faith have been and are lying in wait - preserve yourselves through the blessing of the Most Great Name.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1291-03 [1874-Apr], to Abdu'l-Husayn son of Zi -- BH08972)
89
When His Cause is protected, we all remain protected and preserved under the shade of His blessed Tree. Otherwise, alas for all from that great terror!
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Yazdi, Muhammad Ali son of Isma'il (Saida) -- AB11789)
90
The blessed Cause is the Cause of God; yet from every side perils have encompassed it. All the peoples of the world have assailed the Cause. The meaning is this: from every direction danger hath encircled the blessed Cause.
...(Under such circumstances) if I should fail to make an effort to protect you, I should be not only responsible for your injury, but also guilty of connivance with the enemy.
The available source contains an omission or incomplete wording; sentence boundaries need review.
92
I said that Madame D'Astre was here yesterday and told us that while she was speaking before the spiritual Alliance on the Baha'i Cause, they hooted her because she quoted Baha'u'llah words that there is no greatness in loving one's country, there is rather glory in this that one loves his kind. They were not interested in universal patriotism. They wanted to love their own country better than all the rest of the world etc.
The Master said: "These objections are always raised against the truth but the truth will march toward its ultimate goal of triumph. When we were exiled from Teheran to Bagdad we could not find one single Baha'i but now see how many Baha'is are in each one of these cities. When Sultan Mohamad, the Victor of Constantinople besieged the city and his army was constantly commanding the walls and the fortresses, one of the Greek or Roman generals entered into a cloister and saw a monk is busily writing. He asked him, what are you doing? He said, I am writing an apologetic book against the religion of Mohamad. The general got furious and kicked the monk out of his cloister. 'Get out of here, you idiot! When the banner of Mohammed was waving in Arabia, then it was the time to write a book against his religion but now that the noise of his cannons is reaching our ears you are booming forth behind our walls and fortifications what good thy book will achieve?' Now the Baha'i cause has gone too far, the principles are spread too widely, for the objections of any one."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to the Master's entourage, spoken at Rue St. Didier 30 on 1913-Mar-10 -- ABU1648)
93
Abdu'l-Baha: If He is God, whatever he does is right. If he is false, whatever he does is also false - even though he may not marry. There are religious devotees in India who do not marry at all. Is this a proof of their truth? This is the essential (proof), but the non-essential is this:
When my mother became helpless and could not serve, Baha'u'llah did not wish, as is the custom of the Europeans, to have a 'mistress', he accepted another wife.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Fugeta, et al, spoken on 1919-Dec-18 -- ABU2190)
94
Whosoever desires to know the history of this Cause and its tenets must come to us and not go to those who are predisposed and biased. For if the seeker goes for gaining information to the latter people he will surely deprive himself of the real facts.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1914-Mar-07 -- ABU3421)
95
Of course, the believers are vigilant to deal with such accusations convincingly.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to the friends spoken in Dec. 1907 -- ABU2464)
96
This much is sufficient - that they praise this Cause and its great station, and deny the false rumors that the unfaithful ignorant ones have spread.
Take thou the reins of the Cause with the power of thy Lord, then make mention of Him amongst the servants with such remembrances as will cause spirits to be attracted.
(Bahá’u’lláh, ca. 1289-1290?, to Jamal -- BH02489)
98
These souls are the protectors of the Cause of God on earth, who shall preserve its beauty from the obscuring dust of idle fancies and vain imaginings. In the path of their Lord they shall not fear for their lives; rather will they sacrifice their all in their eagerness to behold the face of their Well-Beloved when once He hath appeared in this Name, the Almighty, the All-Powerful, the All-Glorious, the Most Holy.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Suriy-i-Haykal (Surih of the Temple) -- BH00007)
99
So much so that Pharaoh and his people finally arose and exerted their utmost endeavor to extinguish with the waters of falsehood and denial the fire of that sacred Tree, oblivious of the truth that no earthly water can quench the flame of divine wisdom, nor mortal blasts extinguish the lamp of everlasting dominion. Nay, rather, such water cannot but intensify the burning of the flame, and such blasts cannot but ensure the preservation of the lamp, were ye to observe with the eye of discernment, and walk in the way of God's holy will and pleasure.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Kitab-i-Iqan (The Book of Certitude), 1278 ca. [1861-1862], to Haji Mirza Siyyid Muhammad, great uncle of the Bab (Khal-i-Akbar) -- BH00002)
100
The matter is now beyond their criticism and rebuke.
… These refutations which are being launched out against the Cause are like unto the work of the gardener who lops off the lower branches of a tree and clears the ground from thorns and underbushes. This will cause the growth of the tree. Although outwardly the lopping of the branches may be considered as afflicting wounds to the tree, yet in reality, they will speed along its development.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1914-Aug-10 -- ABU0480)
101
O cherished handmaiden of God! Your letter was received and we became apprised of its contents....
...the meaning of verse sixteen in chapter fifty-four of Isaiah is this: I have created a soul who, through intense heedlessness, has become proud and arrogant and prepares instruments of destruction, but these instruments will not demolish the divine edifice. Rather, that pickaxe will bring firmness to this foundation. As you observe, how many evil souls desired to overthrow the divine edifice, yet in the end they were disappointed and lost.
...
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1905-Jun-11, to Helen Ellis Cole -- AB08178)
The available source contains an omission or incomplete wording; sentence boundaries need review.
102
My body hath borne imprisonment that your souls may be released from bondage, and We have consented to be abased that ye may be exalted. Follow the Lord of glory and dominion, and not every ungodly oppressor. My body longeth for the cross, and Mine head awaiteth the thrust of the spear, in the path of the All-Merciful, that the world may be purged from its transgressions. Thus hath the Daystar of divine authority shone forth from the horizon of the Revelation of Him Who is the Possessor of all names and attributes.
The people of the Qur'an have risen against Us, and tormented Us with such a torment that the Holy Spirit lamented, and the thunder roared out, and the clouds wept over Us. Among the faithless is he who hath imagined that calamities can deter Baha from fulfilling that which God, the Creator of all things, hath purposed. Say: Nay, by Him Who causeth the rain to fall! Nothing whatsoever can withhold Him from the remembrance of His Lord.
By the righteousness of God! Should they cast Him into a fire kindled on the continent, He will assuredly rear His head in the midmost heart of the ocean and proclaim: "He is the Lord of all that are in heaven and all that are on earth!" And if they cast Him into a darksome pit, they will find Him seated on earth's loftiest heights calling aloud to all mankind: "Lo, the Desire of the World is come in His majesty, His sovereignty, His transcendent dominion!" And if He be buried beneath the depths of the earth, His Spirit soaring to the apex of heaven shall peal the summons: "Behold ye the coming of the Glory; witness ye the Kingdom of God, the Most Holy, the Gracious, the All-Powerful!" And if they shed His blood, every drop thereof shall cry out and invoke God in this Name through which the fragrance of His raiment hath been diffused in all directions.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Lawh-i-Pap (Tablet to Pope Pius IX), 1285 ca. [1868-1869], to Pope Pius IX -- BH00347)
103
No force of hosts can weaken Him, nor can the might of kings enfeeble Him. He speaketh the truth and summoneth all unto the One, the All-Informed.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1298-12-24 [1881-Nov-17], to Aqa Muhammad Husayn et al -- BH00407)
104
Say: Were all the clergy and mystics on earth, and all the kings and emperors, to be gathered, I would stand before them and recite the verses of God, the king, the glorious, the wise. I am he who fears no one, even should all who are in the heavens and the earth assemble against Me.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Prologue to the Lawh-i-Mubahilih -- BH03710)
105
Before the faces of princes and divines, We have, with the pen of justice and utterance, struck at the swords of tyranny and rebellion, and We have been and continue to be like a brilliant and manifest light. Should the entire world unite and rise up to harm the Truth, it would be and is absolute nothingness. Verily, We fear no one.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307-03-06 [1889-Oct-31], to Haji Mirza Haydar Ali Isfahani -- BH01511)
106
Therefore, O my God, protect it from the perversion of the extremists and the innovations of the innovators, and preserve the fortress of Thy Cause from those who would break away, through Thy power, O Thou Most Merciful of the merciful ones, and through Thy sovereignty which pervadeth the kingdom of the heavens and the earth.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1892-Oct-10, to Siyyid Mihdi Yazdi the martyr -- AB09142)
107
O Lord! Strengthen his back and gird up his loins and make his affairs easy and illumine his face and loose his tongue that he may make Thy servants firm in Thy Covenant and Testament and become a mighty barrier of iron between Thy servants and Gog of commotion and Magog of upheaval.
This servant beseeches the Most Great Unity that you may be protected and preserved under the shadow of His grace - and this is not difficult for God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1896-Apr-22, to Haji Muhammad Husayn Shabistari -- AB03268)
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109
The Hand of Omnipotence hath established His Revelation upon an unassailable, an enduring foundation. Storms of human strife are powerless to undermine its basis, nor will men's fanciful theories succeed in damaging its structure.
There is an answer in the teachings for everything; unfortunately the majority of the Baha'is, however intensely devoted and sincere they may be, lack for the most part the necessary scholarship and wisdom to reply to and refute the claims and attacks of people with some education and standing....
UD.439 (25 Sep. 1942 on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)
Supplied quotation · catalogue passage not verified
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111
Such a rectitude of conduct ... must be demonstrated in the impartiality of every defender of the Faith against its enemies, in his fair-mindedness in recognizing any merits that enemy may possess, and in his honesty in discharging any obligations he may have towards him.
ADJ#041 p027
Supplied quotation · catalogue passage not verified
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