(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Lawh-i-Tanzih va Taqdis (=Lawh-i-Dukhan), 1906-Dec-11, to Baha'is of the world -- AB00109)
Music and singing: a ladder for the soul, a language of fellowship
music and singing
Editorial introduction
Sound is only vibration in the air, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá observes, and yet see how it moves the heart. Bahá’u’lláh goes further: music is a ladder for the soul, made so that it may be lifted to the realm on high, with one warning: not to turn it into wings for self and passion. Where music had been thought reprehensible, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá calls it spiritual food and asks that children be taught to sing with excellence. A melody is a clear chalice; what fills it, and the state of the one who drinks, decide whether it gives life. He remembers a mystic guitarist weeping through a night of His childhood illness, and a boy with a flute by the Euphrates, as proof of a song’s power. The psalmist’s call for harp and trumpet, with sea and hills joining in, widens the chorus to all creation [1]. From here the path leads into gatherings where friends sing together, into the House of Worship whose hymns are meant to enrapture the Concourse on High, and into how the arts carry feeling between the material world and the spiritual.
Selected passages
(Bahá’u’lláh, Kitab-i-Aqdas (The Most Holy Book), 1290-05-15 [1873-Jul-11] -- BH00001)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Feb-24, to Louise Waite -- AB06303)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Public address given on 1912-Apr-24 -- ABU0528)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1921-Jun-17, to Asgharzadih Fawzi, Azizullah et al -- AB12022)
Continue as long as thou canst this melody in the gatherings of the beloved; thus may the minds find rest and joy and become in tune with the love of God. When eloquence of expression, beauty of sense and sweetness of composition unite with new melodies the effect is ever great, especially if it be the anthem of the verses of oneness and the songs of praise to the Lord of Glory.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1904-Aug-23, to Louise Waite -- AB05778)
In the world of existence physical things have a connection with spiritual realities.
… In short: melodies, though they are material, are connected with the spiritual, therefore, they produce a great effect. A certain kind of melody makes the spirit happy, another kind makes it sad, another excites it to action.
… Whatever is in the heart of man, melody moves and awakens. … For instance: the music used in war awakens the desire for bloodshed. The meaning is that melody causes whatever feeling is in the heart to increase.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Mary Lucas and other pilgrims, spoken on 1905-Jan-30 -- ABU0474)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-May-14, to Edwin Fisher -- AB03123)
The melody must be divine, whether it be in Persian, Arabic, or Turkish; the tune and air must be soul-stirring, whether in the mode of Hijaz or Iraq.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Ahmaduf Milani, Haji Ali Muhammad (Son of Haji Ahmad) -- AB05862)
"When you hear Persian music it will sound strange, but after you become accustomed to it you will enjoy it very much.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Latimer, Esslemont, Randall et al, spoken on 1919-Nov-17 -- ABU0950)
Music is like this glass which is perfectly pure and polished. It is precisely like this clear chalice before us. And the Teachings and Utterances of God are like the water. When the chalice is in the utmost state of purity, absolutely clear and polished, and the water is perfectly fresh, then it will confer life. Wherefore, the Teachings of God, whether they be Utterances in the form of homilies, or prayers and communes, when they are melodiously chanted will proved most impressive.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Kinney, Beede, Thompson party, spoken on 1909-Jul-09 -- ABU0381)
You had written about Mr. Harold McKay that he is a sweet-singing bird. Musical melodies cause physical bodies to vibrate, but heavenly songs cause the human spirit to soar. Tell Mr. Harold McKay that if you can combine earthly tunes with celestial melodies, then you will observe that you have breathed the breath of life into the body of the world and bestowed upon the human world a joy and delight that will endure forever.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1916-Apr-03, to May Maxwell -- AB12133)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Abdu'llah Muallim -- AB06829)
O thou who art attracted to the Kingdom! Perfect the art of music and strive to the utmost of thy capacity to serve at the threshold of the Lord of the Kingdom.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1916 or < -- AB11495)
O thou attracted one of the Kingdom! Complete thou the study of the art of music and sacrifice thyself more or less to the Lord of the Kingdom.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Jun-05, to Lydia Rainy -- AB05941)
For instance, when the studying of art is with the intention of obeying the command (of God) this study will certainly be done easily and great progress will soon be made therein; and when others discover this fragrance of spirituality in the action itself, this same will cause their awakening.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1902-May-14, to Charles Mason Remey -- AB03769)
Convey the Most Glorious Greetings to the maidservant of God Mrs. Matilda Gale and tell her I have asked for heavenly confirmation for your sons that they may gain proficiency in the art of music.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-Apr-03, to Harry Gale -- AB05231)
The parents must see to it that their children are taught the best, classical music, such masterpieces that refine the souls and etherealize the aspirations. The life of a person who has learned to appreciate the artistic value and moral significance of music is redolent with brightness, health and joy.
… Once during my early childhood I became very sick. At the time, my family lived in Teheran. I was lying in bed in a semi-conscious state. After much consultation the Doctors agreed upon a course of "musical treatment." Before sunset they brought into my room an old man with a very long beard. He carried under his 'Aba' a guitar. He sat near my bed and immediately began to play and sing. All through the night he played and sang, now in high, resonant voice and again in sweet, soft strains. My soul was charmed with his music. During certain hours of the night I opened my eyes and to my surprise I saw him weeping.
In the morning I felt better and asked my mother why the musician was weeping? She said: 'He was not a professional artist but a mystic worshipper of the Beloved. His singing was not mechanical, but an outpouring of the joy felt in his heart. His poems were mystic and allegorical addresses to the Adored One. Through his music he spoke to the hearts and quickened and moved them by the power of spirit. He did not make himself a slave of technique or enunciation but he sang the living truth, the eternal reality, hidden in the chambers of human consciousness. In his mysterious way, with the key of life, he opened the secret doors of beatitude and unlocked the gates of the higher and loftier vision.' Soon I became well and strong but the song and music of the mystic artist has ever been with me.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to some friends, spoken on 1915-Feb-15 -- ABU0742)
Teach thy pupils the beauty and charm of the spiritual music, the harmonies that exalt the spirit and ennobles one's thoughts.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Mrs DeBons, spoken on 1913-Oct-16 -- ABU1935)
The believers must cultivate a beautiful voice so that they may sing the Baha'i songs or chant the Blessed Perfection's Communes with effect. The Communes are the food of the spirit.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1913-Jul-02 in Port Said -- ABU3524)
And it behooveth thee to be elaborate in prolixity and miraculous in brevity, and to master various melodies and create the most beautiful harmonies in these gardens.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1901 or < -- AB08432)
O Qabil! The flowing verses that were like the melodies of a thousand eloquent and wondrous springtimes were recited, and the fragrance of steadfastness and firmness was inhaled. However, from some of the servitude-laden contents joy was obtained while others were corrected.
Consider how intensely the fire of this servant's love for you burns, that despite a hundred thousand occupations and lack of time, I undertook to correct your poetry so that it may serve as a model for the future of his honor Qabil, and whatever he may sing in the arts of melody upon the branches of utterance may be in this station and tune, that it may be chanted in the gatherings of the Kingdom and assemblies of the Realm of Might, nay even in the monasteries of the Realm of Divinity, and its melody may reach the ears of the Guardian of the Most Glorious Kingdom and become the manifestation of praise.
And glory be upon you and upon all who remain firm in God's Covenant and praise God's Testament. 'Abbas.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Abbas Qabil -- AB05241)
Therefore, at every moment open your tongue in praise of the Most Glorious Beauty and in extolling and glorifying that Peerless Beloved, and compose odes and lyrics with the utmost eloquence and profundity, so that you may bring joy and delight to the denizens of the divine realm and bestow happiness upon the dwellers of the Kingdom.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Jul-07, to Ilyas Kashani -- AB04404)
Chant the verses of guidance among the people and commence [the composition of] melodies of great beauty and effect in praise and glorification of the Generous Lord.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-May-29, to Louise Waite -- AB07022)
Therefore, like the nightingale of divine unity, open your tongue in the rose garden of sanctification, tune the instrument of the Supreme Concourse, and with the melody of the Abha Kingdom compose and chant in gatherings a new ode in praise of the Sun of Glory.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or < -- AB07620)
From the creative faculty and clear inspiration of the distinguished orator, the desire is that novel meanings may flow forth in praise and glorification of the Ancient Lord, the Most Great Name - may my spirit be a sacrifice for His loved ones - so that the friends may chant them with a pleasing melody and the ears of the people of Baha, especially 'Abdu'l-Baha, may be delighted and stirred thereby.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-Apr ca., to Mirza Musa Khatib -- AB08696)
How significant and eloquent were those new verses, for they were the notes of the clarion of the love of God!
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-May-18, to Kathryn Frankland -- AB06955)
O thou lover of the Beloved of the World!
The new song and thy notes were received. Praise thou God that thou art ever engaged and associated with praise and thanksgiving to the Promised Beauty with the harp and the mandolin.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Dec-19, to Louise Waite -- AB04788)
O thou sweet-voiced Shahnaz,
The melody, which thou didst compose for the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar has reached the ears of 'Abdu'l-Baha. It was a very sweet and heart-touching melody, because it contained the praise and glorification of His Holiness Baha'u'llah.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1914-Aug-14, to Louise Waite -- AB09415)
O thou who art rejoicing with the glad tidings of God!
Verily the Song of the Covenant of most eloquent phrase and of most wonderful melody was received. And the maidservants of the Merciful are singing it in the great assemblages and are rejoicing in these harmonies.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Louise Waite -- AB11210)
Verily I shall send thy beautiful and new hymn to Persia so that they may translate and sing it in the assemblies.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-Feb-23, to Louise Waite -- AB05898)
All poems shall be forgotten in the course of time save those that are extraordinary; thy poem shall be chanted with melody and best voices in the Center of Worship (or Mashrak-el-Azcar) forevermore.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-Apr-18, to Louise Waite -- AB07021)
With a melodious voice it should be sung during the Days of the Ridvan and the believers and maidservants of the Merciful must listen.
The poetries which are composed in these days will be mentioned by the poets and thinkers throughout the ages and after a thousand years they will be chanted and sung in the great meetings, vast congregations and wonderful Temples throughout the world.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-May-18, to Marie A Watson -- AB07233)
Music is an ancient art in Persia. The old People of Persia loved music very much and their artists contributed to its development. … Thus Persian music has contributed to the European Music, although this is not quite well-known.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to a musician, spoken at Baltimore Hotel on 1913-May-08 -- ABU0556)
At one time I was walking along the shore of Euphrates[.] Absorbed in my thought I suddenly heard the most charming and sweetest sound. I turned my head and saw a simple Arab lad riding on a donkey, loaded with under-brushes and playing on his flute. I was so intoxicated with the melody of his faultless tone that I requested him to get down from his donkey and play for me. I helped him to unload his donkey and then quietly we sat under the inviting shade of a tree. Then he began to play with such depth of feeling and beauty that my whole heart went to him. I drank deeply the sweet cadences and harmonies of his flute to such an extent that I was entranced thereby.
When he finished playing I assisted him again to load his donkey, gave him a present and the address of our house and asked him to call on me next day. At the appointed hour he came and played for us and as there were several prominent men in the room they all liked his music and asked him in turn to go to their homes one night a week and entertain them and their guests. In a short while he became famous throughout all Bagdad and leaving his hard labor of thorn-picking he devoted his career to the inspiring art of music. With his growing popularity he grew in wealth and position and became a respected, loved and honored member of the community. He was still in Bagdad when we were exiled to Constantinople and used to call on me almost every week antecedent to our departure.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Mr Michel and others, spoken on 1915-May-10 -- ABU1217)
Last night an Hindu professor of music came here, bringing his musical instrument called The Vina with him and played for us certain oriental strains, accompanying them with singing - overhead our neighbor was playing the piano, but as soon as the professor began playing, the piano became silent; and when the Hindou had finished playing we heard again the sound of the piano - this illustrates a lesson, namely that when we listen to a most beautiful song, we must forget inferior music - when a lover of music has listened to the entrancing notes of a great master, his love of music will no longer be satisfied with the playing of the pupil.
… Let us find out the melody, the sweet strains of which will be taken up by angels and carried to the supreme concourse - Let us hearken to a Melody which may stir the world of humanity - so that they may dance with joy - Let us listen to a strain which gives life to man- Then we can obtain universal results.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken at Rue St. Didier 30 in Paris, 1913-Feb-07 -- ABU0206)
It is like a song; both words and music make the song. Sometimes the melody will move us, sometimes the words.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Julia Grundy spoken around Jan. 1905 -- ABU3528)
Music is produced by vibrations of air which affect the tympanum of the ear. Although music or an ordinary pleasing voice is of the physical realm, yet it has an effect upon the spirit.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to some musicians, spoken on 1912-Aug-13 -- ABU2860)
All Art is a gift of the Holy Spirit.
When this light shines through the mind of a musician, it manifests itself in beautiful harmonies. Again, shining through the mind of a poet, it is seen in fine poetry and poetic prose. When the Light of the Sun of Truth inspires the mind of a painter, he produces marvellous pictures.
These gifts are fulfilling their highest purpose, when showing forth the praise of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken in a private home in Chelsea, Sep. 1911 -- ABU3051)
Divine music exhilarates the Spirit while earthly music has an effect over the body. Divine music belong to the Kingdom of God; earthly music is of this mundane world.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1912-Dec-23 in London -- ABU3104)
Music is a sign of the signs of God. Just as earthly music bestows exhilaration and rejoicing to the bodies, so the spiritual music stirs into cheerfulness and beatific bliss the hearts and the spirits. The prophets of God are the heavenly Artists or Musicians. Therefore I hope that whenever you are playing upon your instrument you may hear the invisible song of the Kingdom and the divine anthem. Just as the material marshal music stirs the hearts of the warriors, may your ethereal music inspire the spirits of the warriors of Peace and salvation.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to a musician, spoken at Hotel Marquardt on 1913-Apr-30 -- ABU2342)
It has also been proven that the soul who summons the people to the Kingdom of God advances more rapidly and is more powerfully influenced than the hearers. The real artist is the one who feels every word and meaning of his song more, infinitely more than his audience.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to the friends, spoken on 1915-Mar-10 -- ABU0990)
In the American cities and on this Celtic steamer, the melodies and songs of musicians reach the highest zenith. Every night and morning, songs and tunes from the ship's singers and musicians reach the ears of those present. But no melody is as joy-giving as the tune of the honored teacher and the sound of his instrument. Whoever has heard that considers these melodies to be the sound of a pickaxe, for that tune and voice rises from a heart full of humility and supplication.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1913-May-04, to Qazvini (Samandar), Shaykh Kazim et al -- AB01586)
When we were coming from New York to London, the band on the ship played every morning and evening, and the passengers were accustomed to listening to pass the time. However, when they sometimes played better, people would become excited for a few minutes and clap at the end. This was the result of their music and melodies - temporary, not permanent.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1913-May-26 in Paris -- ABU2071)
When we left America on the steamer celtic, there were several musicians and singers. They played and sung every day and night. when they stopped playing the listeners clapped their hands and all was ended. This was its result.
But you must sing a melody as to move and stir the hearts of the Supreme Concourse and its effects may be eternal. The earthly notes and strains are limited as to their influence.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to a singer, spoken at Baltimore Hotel on 1913-May-26 -- ABU2622)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1920-Apr-15, to Alfred Warsar -- AB11975)
The effect of a garden bird's song lasts but a moment, while the anthem of the spiritual nightingale has an eternal and everlasting influence. The song of that one reaches only its surroundings, while the melody of this one ascends from the nether world to the Supreme Concourse. By the voice of that one, those intoxicated with the wine of the grape are moved to joy and delight, while by the anthem of this one, they who are inebriated with the divine wine are stirred to ecstasy and expansion and gladness in the Kingdom of the All-Merciful.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Darvish Bulbul -- AB04655)
The high notes of singers, the sound of musical instruments, and the excitement of dancers bring no delight - rather, it is the melody of devotion and entreaty that bestows abundant joy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906-Dec-23, to Muhammad Husayin Mirza the Prince Muayyid -- AB05620)
But the ear of 'Abdu'l-Baha yearns to hear praise of the Most Glorious Beauty and finds no delight in any melody and seeks no thrill from any tune except this divine song and music and melody of the rose garden of meanings.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-May-16, to Mirza Baha'i (Shiraz) -- AB04057)
"The heavenly music is heart ravishing. That melody penetrates the heart of man. That [clarion] bestows on man spirituality and joy. That music awakens man out of the sleep of negligence. But the majority of mankind are not endowed with ears to listen to that joy and giving melody because their ears are accustomed to such cheap rag time."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Latimer and Remey, spoken on 1914-Oct-09 -- ABU1042)
When the sweet harmonies of the Bird of the Supreme Paradise are raised, the buzzings of the bees are not heeded.
Today whosoever takes the lessons of voice culture in the Celestial Conservatory of Baha'u'llah, he will be endowed with a soul-captivating voice which would move and thrill the hearts of numberless music lovers.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to some pilgrims, spoken on 1914-Feb-23 -- ABU2280)
O musician of God! Though musicians of the past acquired skill in their art and composed original melodies, becoming renowned throughout the horizons and the delight of lovers, playing romantic verses with plaintive tunes and raising their song in the gathering of the world, creating tumult in Iraq with their Hijaz melodies in the desert of separation--yet divine melody hath another effect, and heavenly song another attraction and ecstasy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1904 ca., to Mirza Abdu'llah Muallim -- AB03925)
For instance, among the ordinances is the permissibility of music and song. However, should a person from among the people of Bayan openly engage in this practice, it would be unwise, as it would cause the servants to withdraw and create turmoil among the people of the land.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1292-05-19 [1875-Jun-23], to Muhammad Javad Qazvini -- BH00466)
The gathering of a large crowd, whether women or men, in one place and the rising of songs and melodies from the women causes agitation in the hearts of the enemies. The people of Iran are not yet able to tolerate such gatherings and songs and melodies.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-Mar-12, to Gul-Surkh Khanum Imami Azami (Faizih) -- AB01842)
Some friends asked about the matter of singing and chanting in the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar: 'Abdu'l-Baha said that the recitation of the Holy Writings and prayers, whether in verse or prose, should be performed by singing and chanting. "However," he added, "I do not interfere in such matters that have not been explicitly revealed in the Text. Whatsoever the Universal House of Justice may prescribe at any time, the same shall be the accepted criterion."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to the Baha'is, spoken at Kinney home on 1912-Nov-14 -- ABU3315)
There will be no organ in the Temple. In buildings nearby, festivals, services, conventions, public meetings and spiritual gatherings will be held, but in the Temple the chanting and singing will be unaccompanied.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Helen Goodall and Ella Cooper spoken in Jan. 1908 -- ABU3336)
When its accessories are completed and its full machinery starts running, when the melody of vocal and instrumental music arises and bursts upon the air with its joyous trends, when the prayers and supplications addressed at dawn and at sunrise ascend to the Throne of the Almighty, then will the effect of the Mashrekol-Azkar be made evident and manifest.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá -- ABU1905)
When its accessories are completed and its full machinery starts running, when the melody of vocal and instrumental music arises and rends the air with its joyous trends, when the prayers and supplications addressed at dawn and at sunrise ascend to the throne of the Almighty,-then will the effect of the Mashrakol-Azkar be made evident and manifest.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1919-Jun-08 -- ABU2266)
The utmost joy was attained, for--praise be to God!--the friends of the Merciful passed some time on that day joyous and singing in the land of the Mashrak-el-Azcar and enjoyed commemorating the Lord of the verses with the greatest joy.
… I am hopeful that, during the coming of Rizwan, a great feast shall be held in the land of the Mashrak-el-Azcar, a spiritual celebration prepared and the melodies of the violin and the mandolin and hymns in praise and glorification of the Lord of Hosts make all the audience joyous and ecstatic.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Jul-01, to Corinne True -- AB04046)
Mrs. Randall: "Should there be singing of songs as well as chanting of prayers in the meetings?"
'Abdu'l-Baha: "Yes."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Latimer, Esslemont, Randall et al, spoken on 1919-Nov-20 -- ABU0392)
Meanwhile they may read some Tablets and Communes, and at the end of the meetings, if they desire to sing with the utmost supplication and meekness, it is acceptable.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Mrs Goodall and Mrs Cooper -- ABU2522)
If there are those who have good voices, sing beautiful songs, if possible Persian chants and poems. If no one can do this in Persian, have sung any beautiful songs in English.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Aseyeh Allen spoken in May 1907 -- ABU1635)
As to chanting supplications in the Oriental tune: This is very agreeable. His honor Mr. Kinney must exert his endeavor in this matter.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1905-Dec-29, to Howard Macnutt -- AB00372)
Regarding arrangements for the Bahai Sunday meeting for the purpose of worship, this is very suitable. But, in a meeting for worship, first, prayer should be chanted and supplication made until all gather; then communion should be made. After praying, sacred readings with melodious voices should be read by all together. As this is the commencement of holding meetings, this is sufficient.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-Jan-17, to Spiritual Assembly of Chicago, IL -- AB04339)
Although outwardly there was no merriment or delight, and no musician played melodies and songs, and no harp or lute made music - there was no brimming cup, no joy-inducing wine, no ornament or adornment, no horn or flute - yet the holy and musk-laden breezes were wafting and the gathering of fellowship was radiant with light.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903 ca., to Abdu'llah son of Muhammad Baqir Nabil et al -- AB03703)
They must adorn their gathering with the remembrance of God and raise such melody and song as to bring the dwellers of the Kingdom into rapture and ecstasy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-May-23, to Pfund, Karl et al -- AB03982)
When they arrange a gathering they sing sweet melodies and offer praise to the Lord of creation.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Dec-16, to Baha'is of Khurramshah et al -- AB03248)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1918-Dec-30, to Louise Waite -- AB06287)
In the days of God thou didst warble the most wondrous melodies in the garden of unity and opened thy lips in praise and glorification of the Lord. Thou wert the cause of joy and gladness to the friends of the All-Merciful and became the celestial musician in the spiritual gathering of fellowship.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903 ca., to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB05330)
Praise be to God that thou art engaged and confirmed in the service of the Kingdom of God, with a sweet melody thou art imparting joy and exhilaration to the souls and in the meetings stir and move the audience through the heavenly Call.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1917-Jan-29, to Louise Waite -- AB01774)
Sing in all gatherings of the love and harmony of the beloved and the maidservants of the Merciful.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Louise Waite -- AB11516)
Therefore, in thanksgiving for this bounty of the one true Lord, hold festivities day and night, that through the celestial melodies of harp and flute thou mayest bestow joy and delight upon both friend and stranger.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-May ca., to Jamshid Surush (Bombay) -- AB09216)
Therefore, it behooveth them to raise their heads to the stars and to be exalted to the zenith of eternal glory, to strike up a wondrous melody and to play upon the harp and lute, and in gratitude for the bounty of the peerless Lord to become harmonious companions.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908 ca., to Bibi Zayni et al -- AB05516)
Take up the harp and lute and raise a melody in harmony with the Supreme Concourse, that the birds of the meadow may come into rapture and ecstasy, and all may become engaged in one voice in praising and glorifying the Glorious Lord.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Baha'is of Abadih -- AB05885)
These told him that there were many earnest believers in America, but that they were far apart and all playing on different musical instruments, so that they did not play in harmony.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Anna Watson spoken around 1904-Oct-18 -- ABU3063)
His Holiness Baha'u'llah likened the religions of the world to musical instruments, each divine messenger having been sent to sound a different key, but the instruments have become out of tune and discord has resulted. Therefore Baha'u'llah brought a new musical instrument and put it into our hands, saying: "Play on this. It includes all notes, all harmony. This harmony will exhilarate even the angels and will set them to dancing. The Supreme Concourse will rejoice, for this harmony will be never-ending. The melody will be eternal."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1912-Oct-13 in San Francisco -- ABU0792)
They chanted the verses of the Covenant in the assemblage of the women of the horizons with melody, song, harp and music.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Khadijih Sultan daughter of Ammih -- AB02341)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1905 ca., to Fatimih -- AB06030)
O thou beloved daughter! Praise be to God, that thou hast capacity and worthiness, in order to become the maidservant of the Kingdom of God and in the heavenly festival and spiritual society thou mayst decorate the meeting with the beauties of song and melody.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1916-Dec-25, to Juanita Storch -- AB01098)
O thou honorable one!
Thank thou God that thou art instructed in music and melody, singing with pleasant voice the glorification and praise of the Eternal, the Living. I pray to God that thou mayest employ this talent in prayer and supplication, in order that the souls may become quickened, the hearts may become attracted and all may become inflamed with the fire of the love of God!
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1905-Nov-17, to Lilia Marie Helbig -- AB10062)
Say to the maid-servant of God, ...: "Thy voice and thy melody in singing reached the ears of Abdul-Baha, and produced joy and fragrance."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906 ca., to Aseyeh Wellesca Dyar -- AB00628)
O cherished friend! How fortunate thou wert to win the ball of precedence from the field of wisdom and to sing with celestial melody the divine mystery in the cosmic assembly with harp and lute.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1897 ca., to Siyavash Farsi (Siyavash Sifidvash) -- AB06463)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Sep-12, to Mirza Aqa Bashir Ilahi (Bashirus-Sultan) -- AB01467)
When I utter their names, I find it like the music of the lute, the oud and the melodies of the psalms of David's house - uplifting and refreshing.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Sakinih wife of Muhammad Rahim Attar (Tihran) -- AB04487)
It was chanted and sung with the most wonderful melodies in the gathering of the friends. Hearts became joyful and souls were delighted by its truths and meanings.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-May-14, to Wife of Andalib -- AB04568)
The poems of his honor Mirza Ali were read and due to the sweetness of their meaning causing attraction in the heart, this ghazal was composed and sung and chanted with the melodies of the birds of the garden of truth.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Ibrahim Shishvani -- AB05428)
And on the way you would intone the blessed poems with marvelous melodies and adorn ears with their precious meanings.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Fadlullah Pilgrim -- AB05206)
O you who are enkindled with the fire of the love of God!
Praise be to God that your respected spouse is a salamander in the fire of love, and your children are saplings of the Abha Paradise, all engaged in melody and joy, and in the feast of alast (Am I not your Lord?) they are companions of the lute and the oud, and each one has a melody and song in the rose garden of the love of God, and through divine bounty, intelligence and hearing and culture.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-Feb-04, to Masumih wife of Samandar, mother of Tarazullah -- AB06428)
Thou wert present at the Threshold of Oneness, drank from the cup of grace, perfumed thy nostrils with the holy fragrances of the Blessed Spot, illumined thy face with the dust of God's threshold, and with melody, song, chanting, ecstasy, attraction and rapture watered the rose-garden and flower-bed of the Sacred Valley.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Darvish Isma'il -- AB06778)
O sweet-singing bird! Your melody is in the mode of 'Iraq and Hijaz, and continuously reaches the Holy Land of the Self-Sufficing Lord. Your song gives life to souls and your melody brings joy to hearts.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903 ca., to Haji Aqa Rahmanian Sangsari -- AB10069)
The ears of the Concourse on High hearken to thy melodies in glorification and praise, as thou extollest thy Lord, the Most Glorious.
Therefore, ascend to the Kingdom and warble like the dove of holiness in the gardens of the realm of might, glorifying the Lord of grandeur and the divine realm, the Most Glorious Luminary, and proclaiming my servitude to that exalted Threshold before which the Concourse on High bow down their radiant faces.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1897-Dec-05, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB09648)
I swear by the Quintessence of existence that if thou shouldst attain this station thy voice shall be the voice of the Psalms of David, thy chanting shall echo with the melodies of holiness and sanctity in the path of the All- loving Lord
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1904-Sep or < -- AB05541)
Therefore assist him with the psalms of David's house and melodies that would soften solid rock, that he may sing the most wondrous songs in the expanse of paradise and the vastness of the Merciful's gardens, and may guide the people of the Furqan and those of the Bayan to the fountain of life, and deliver them from abasement and degradation.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1898-Feb-12, to Ahmad Sadrus-Sudur -- AB01152)
Since thou hast heard the sweet Hijazi melodies from the Iraqi Countenance, now hearken to the spiritual Shahnaz strains from the divine Falcon, that thou mayest perceive novel songs of faithfulness from the eternal lute and harp, and hear the melody of the divine pipe from the strike of the divine Unity, and step into the lane of the Beloved with all thy heart and soul, until thou becomest all spirit and fliest without wings, and art intoxicated without wine, and speakest eloquently without tongue, and attainest the stations of attraction, longing, ecstasy and taste, until thou forgettest sorrow and drinkest from the ocean of joy.
(Bahá’u’lláh -- BH03210)
Melodies have their modes, and songs their measures. None can hear and understand save those whom We have made the ears of the world.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1290-05 [1873-Jun], to Nasim -- BH04401)
Thus have We sent down the verses and dispatched them unto thee that thou mayest recite them with melodious tunes and give thanks unto thy Lord, the Mighty, the Bestower.
(Bahá’u’lláh -- BH07759)
From every direction comes the sound of song and melody, and from every quarter the hearts of lovers are consumed in burning passion, and from every branch rises the sound of lute and song, and from every palace the strains of harp and lyre. Hear ye the vibrations of the divine strings and listen to the spiritual thirds and doubles.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1893 ca. -- AB02748)
This is the time of profit and song, the moment for the melody of harp and lute. … Therefore we must all place the ring of His servitude in our ear and play to the melody of the divine call.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1897 ca., to Javanmard Gushtasb et al -- AB04139)
Therefore, each one of the loved ones of God must take up the lute and reed, and with a wondrous melody, raise song and music in this divine garden, creating ecstasy and rapture.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Mirza Mahmud et al -- AB00377)
In any case, spiritual wayfaring in the valley of divine love is greatly beloved, remembrance of God is acceptable, and singing songs and melodies out of intense joy and delight is desirable.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Ali Muhammad Shirazi -- AB02662)
Take up the divine harp and strike up the melody of the Abha Kingdom, [saying]: "O Baha'is, show forth ecstasy and joy! O divine ones, seek attraction and rapture!"
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB06834)
It is time for celestial music and the moment for the song of servitude at the Holy Threshold of His Holiness the Most Glorious. Why are you silent and quiet? Raise a cry, lift up your voice, sing melodies, strike the strings, raise high the song of praise to the Ancient Beauty and cry out in servitude to 'Abdu'l-Baha.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Bibi Rawhani -- AB05850)
O beseeching leaf! The candle is bright and the honey is refined, and that spiritual witness holds a lute in hand and with sweet melodies of the Abha Kingdom is engaged in song and music. Its harp imparts heavenly power, its plectrum conveys glad-tidings of the favors of the Divine and Heavenly Beauty, and its melody declares:
In this gathering they are lifeless on the path of the Friend,
O Messiah of the age, arise and with fervent breath give life!
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Wife of Haji Hasan Ali -- AB10145)
Therefore, play the rebeck of guidance in such wise that through its wondrous tones the spirit of possibility may be stirred into motion and the hearts of the people of all worlds may find endless joy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Rubabih daughter of Haji Muhammad Baqir Nabil -- AB10836)
You who are the bird of dawn, sweet-singing and melodious and cultured - take up the harp and lute and break the market of Barbad, and sing such a song that the Angel of the highest heaven will be moved to enthusiasm and commotion and the birds of the divine garden will become intoxicated.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1897 ca., to Nush -- AB02766)
You will witness the resurrection of souls and take in hand the overflowing cup from the wine-cellar of Baha, making the wine-drinkers of the heavenly tavern intoxicated, until each one in this feast plays a melody with high and low notes, raises a loud cry, creates music, composes a song, and plays the harp and lute.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Mulla Bahram Akhtar Khavari -- AB04699)
In any case, always warble in the garden of divine knowledge with various melodies and novel tunes in praise of this servant's servitude, that the spirit may be stirred, the heart gladdened, the soul may find joy and delight, the lights of happiness may shine forth, and the bounty of joy may increase.
O nightingale! It is time for song and melody, the moment for harp and music.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB05240)
Therefore, raise your voice as much as you can and play the shahnaz, awaken the birds of the meadow, and at dawn harmonize with sweet melodies.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911 ca., to Surush Bahram Farsi -- AB06794)
O true friend! Some of the friends who have now made the pretext of assuming the character of dervishes are engaged in praising the Ancient Beauty through hints and allusions in corners and streets and marketplaces, and are accustomed to encouraging people by singing ghazals and spiritual songs.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Ali Muhammad -- AB07416)
O spiritual nightingale! You are ever engaged in melody and song, and in the rose-garden of inner meanings you raise your voice in hymns. The eloquence and fluency of your verses are clear and evident.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1913-Aug-14, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB08802)
May God assist you to produce the most wonderful melodies in the expansive gardens through various tunes. God willing, you will ever make the gatherings of the friends independent of evening wine and the melodies of harp and rebec through this song.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB09557)
Let them sing with the accents of Iraq so that hearts may be moved and souls may be quickened; let them chant the melodies of Hijaz that all spirits may be animated by this divine vitality.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Karbala'i Hasan et al -- AB00830)
This prisoner's desire is that the friends arrange feasts of love and prepare celebrations of happiness, that they may experience perfect gladness through divine bounty and, through the grace of the Forgiving Lord, create gatherings of joy and delight. Let them play the lute and reed instrument, and harmonize with melodies of praise and glorification.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Jun-02, to Isma'il et al -- AB01210)
The divine musician hath played such a melody of "He is! He is!" on the harp, drum and flute that it hath thrown the spiritual beings into ecstasy and rapture.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903 ca., to Haji Mirza Sadiq (Isfahan) et al -- AB01213)
O nightingale of the garden of mystical knowledge! That Educator of all possibility and Kind One, that Lord of the realm beyond place, has made that bird of the meadow of certitude into a trained bird, and taught it various melodies, songs and tunes, and gave lessons in spiritual stations, so that you might begin to sing in the divine rose-garden and eternal flower bed with godly voice and Iraqi mode and Hijazi station and Bayati tone and lovers' air and divine rhythm, and become harmonious with the high notes, and in these days create excitement and commotion, and give the meadow birds passion and rapture, and bring them to melody and tune, so that praises and glorification of the Most Unified Presence and commendation and eulogy of the Blessed Beauty might rise from the lowest depths to "There is no God but God" and "God is Most Great" to the zenith of the Most Glorious Kingdom, and the lights of revelation might encompass the horizons of existence, and divine worldwide fame might reach to spread its glad-tidings to the layers of the Supreme Concourse, and commotion might fall upon the pillars of the world, and trembling overtake the limbs of humanity, and East and West of possibility become the rose-garden of the All-Merciful and flower bed of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1897 or <, to Mirza Ali Ashraf Lahijani Andalib -- AB01950)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Spiritual Assembly of Baghistan -- AB02941)
Like a lark bursting with gladness turn thy face towards the mystic rose garden at all times and sing the sweetest of thy songs. Strike on the cymbal, blow the trumpet, play the harpsichord with thy melodies, and gather in a beautiful assembly dedicated to the Love of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1893-Jan-24, to Ibrahim Munshi -- AB04058)
Although the dove and the nightingale, both of them, are two sweet singing birds, yet in the East, especially in Persia, they call the nightingale a sweet singing bird, and in natural singing they prefer it to all other birds.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Nov-18, to Louise Waite -- AB04263)
In praise of the All-Knowing God you have given voice eloquently, and in describing and extolling the Ever-Living, the Almighty, you have arranged precious odes in poetic verse.
… Therefore now, with harp and tambourine and flute and lute and oud and strings, strive to raise up the Word of God and spread the divine fragrances.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Nush -- AB05840)
Now is the time for him to sing ghazals and compose melodies and tune the harp and lute and begin songs and music.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911 ca., to Mihtar Kayqubad Gushtasb -- AB06858)
O Nush, from the wine prepared in Bahram's tavern, give the friends to drink until they become intoxicated in the world and in the heavenly assembly.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1896 ca., to Nush (Bombay) -- AB08288)
Now return to the Orient and become an intimate companion and confidant of the merciful friends. Tune the harp of love and create a pleasing melody. Strike up a royal tune and raise such a song that its echo may reach both East and West.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Jalal Bashir Rahmani Farani -- AB08750)
Chant songs of joy, strike up a melody, raise a resounding strain.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Ali Asghar (Gurgan) -- AB09237)
O musician at the feast of the love of God! The time has come for you to begin singing in the gathering of God's Covenant and to tune the harp, and in high notes to chant:
We are drunk with the cup of "Am I not?"
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Nur Muhammad Khan (Kirman) -- AB10084)
O thou kind friend! Through the bounties of the Blessed Beauty, my wish for thee is that thou mayest ever remain secure, protected and joyful. Make thou no lamentation or cry of grief, but instead chant melodies and raise thy voice in song. They say that [name not readable] is melodious and tuneful as David, renowned for his sweet voice - not for sighs and groans and constant wailing day and night. Therefore be thou happy and remain in melody and delight.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1913-Oct-01, to Eliahu -- AB10710)
Indeed, thou art playing sweet melodies in the rose garden of the love of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1920-Aug-15, to Louise Waite -- AB10958)
The holy maidens of the celestial throne and the veiled beauties of the divine paradise and the immaculate houris of the pavilion of chastity and the maidens confined to the tabernacle of virtue are, upon the carpet of the throne of beauty, engaged with the spirit of fellowship in melodious songs and heavenly anthems, that perchance dead hearts may come to everlasting life and divine melodies and attain the presence of their Beloved.
(Bahá’u’lláh, to Amatullah Sahib -- BH11081)
Despite the fact that the people of Kaf are famous for their singing and music and melodies and stations of bayat and hijaz modes and Iraqi rhythms, what happened that you became completely silent and lifeless and intoxicated and bewildered?
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Siyyid Muhammad Karvansardar -- AB01238)
In every spot on the face of the earth, gatherings of the loved ones are organized and arranged, and the melody of the lute and string and song is raised with "Glory be to God!" and "God is Most Great!", and the song of the Concourse on High reaches the ears of both the noble and the lowly.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Aug-23, to Abutalib (Khurasan) et al -- AB01270)
May they strike up such a melody that its fame spreads throughout the world and sing such a song that moves the kingdom of creation.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-Jan-10, to Baha'is of Sari -- AB01347)
Let each become a wondrous musician, tune the harp of the Most Great Glad-Tidings, and with lute and string begin the melody of the love of God.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Jun-01, to Kalimi, Mihdi Khan et al -- AB01354)
Therefore raise the song of joy and lift up the melody of delight, and with lute and lyre engage in singing and chanting with the utmost ecstasy and rapture until the dwellers in the cloisters of the Kingdom are moved to joy and delight and the recluses in the retreat of the Lord of the Realm of Might cast aside their veils and hasten to the plain of manifestation.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Jan-14, to Sabbagh, Khadijih et al -- AB01937)
At every moment offer thanks and praise, and with harp and melody raise a song and tune until you set the world in motion and make souls the confidants and companions of the Concourse on High.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Jun ca., to Mirza Hashim Aqa (Maraghih) et al -- AB02289)
They must adorn spiritual gatherings, chant songs and strike up melodies and anthems to bring the listeners into a state of joy and ecstasy, that they may hear the praise of the Concourse on High and witness the glorification of the people of the Most Glorious Kingdom, and hear the divine melody from the horizon of grandeur, becoming wonderstruck and transported, and dancing and leaping with the utmost joy and gladness, sacrificing their lives.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1905 ca., to Baha'is of Haqqih -- AB02435)
From the Kingdom of Mystery I beseech that you may obtain joy and delight, and in this divine rose garden, like spiritual nightingales, may sing sweet melodies and songs, so that the listeners may be moved to enthusiasm and rapture, and in their extreme attraction may clap and dance in gratitude to the Self-Sufficing Lord.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Sep-20, to Maryamabadi, Mihraban Shahriyar et al -- AB03443)
O Sulayman! This is the time for the wisdom of Solomon and the melody of David; for divine passion and ecstasy, for longing and joy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Natiq, Aqa Mirza Muhammad et al -- AB03552)
Where have the sounds of lute and organ gone, and the secrets of string and oud and harp?
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Muhammad Husayn son of Pir-i Rawhani -- AB03689)
This is the season of joy and gladness, and the time of abundant ecstasy and rapture. These are days of melody and song, and the period of musical harmony and tune. Patience and tranquility seem deprived, and silence and stillness appear forsaken and unfortunate. But delight and joy depend on music and song and the melodies of harp and instrument. Until the warbling of garden birds rises high, listeners will not be stirred nor become companions in joy and gladness.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1905 ca., to Shirazi, Muhammad Hasan et al -- AB04265)
As to the wonderful melody whereby thy spirit was revived, verily it is a melody of the melodies of the divine music, which will cause the spirits to ascend unto the Supreme Horizon and will (cause) the mysteries to be unfolded.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1902 ca., to Cecilia Harrison -- AB04518)
With harp and drum and reed and strings, in the gathering of the righteous ones, compose melodies and songs of mysteries with the utmost joy and enthusiasm, and chant and recite this ode of servitude's contents so that the doors of happiness and joy may be opened to the hearts of the people of God and to this 'Abdu'l-Baha.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Abbas Qabil -- AB05242)
When the earthly music is joined with the heavenly music such happiness and acclamation become revealed in the hearts that the spirits will soar heavenward.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1913-Sep-01, to Louise Waite -- AB06240)
May thy call be the source of life and the melodies and tunes of thy harp and harpsichord cause all those regions to be moved.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Muhammad Tahir (Rafsanjan) -- AB06822)
Take in hand the strings and chords of meanings and, with a sweet life-giving spiritual melody, engage in divine praise and glorification.
In the garden of existence, begin playing the psalms of the House of David, and on the branches of the Divine Lote-Tree play a soul-stirring melody, that the birds of the gardens of unity may be moved to joy and delight, and the countenances in the chambers of sanctification may shine with eagerness and rapture, so that from this music and song a commotion may arise in the realm above and praise may descend from the Abha Kingdom.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Nur Muhammad Khan (Kirman) -- AB06868)
You would rend your collar and take up the wine-flask in hand, and laughing and joyous would take delight and sing songs and play melodies that would bring the listener to dance and rapture.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Sep-17, to Bahaus-Sultan -- AB06913)
Today is the day of the divine call and the voice is the voice of God, so that the birds of the gardens of unity may, in the rose-garden of detachment, teach lessons of spiritual stations with meaningful melodies, and may become engaged in singing and chanting upon the branches of existence with the psalms of the House of David.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1895-Aug or <, to Siyyid Isma'il Sina -- AB07083)
O spiritual nightingale, sing a melody with the divine sweet tone on this Ridvan Festival in praise and glorification of the All-Merciful Beauty, that the song of "O Glory of the Most Glorious" may reach the ears of this servant.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Bidiyyih Lami -- AB07193)
O thou maidservant of God! I hope that thou wilt attain to great enthusiasm and rapture; that thou wilt wholly turn into an eloquent tongue, and thou wilt, with perfect joy, play on thy harp and raise its melody in this Heavenly Rose-Garden.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1920-Aug-21, to Anise B Rideout -- AB07514)
And in glorification of the one true Lord, you have sung such melodies that the songs of harp and drum, and the tunes of lute and reed and flute, have lost their splendor.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Mirza Baqir Bassar -- AB07701)
Spend thy life as much as thou canst in the Path of the Beauty of Abha; with sweet melody sing the Divine Words, so that hearts may become attracted, souls assured, and spirits attached to the Heavenly Beloved.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Feb-24, to Louise Waite -- AB08203)
Each time thou drawest breath, the spiritual ones stand ready to hear, and the luminous forms are stirred into motion. As much as thou art able, day and night, convey the song and melody of the Angel to the ears of the heedless.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Ardishir Khudabakhsh Bihjat -- AB08771)
Therefore, with rent garment, disheveled hair and glowing countenance, sing love songs in the gathering of the friends, raise spiritual melodies and lift up the anthem of the Abha Kingdom, that thou mayest move the world of being and bring joy and gladness to the Concourse on High.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1902 ca., to Mirza Abbas Quli (Isfahan) -- AB09092)
O thou sweet-songed bird!
Sing and play in the meetings of the friends and the maidservants of the Merciful; engage thyself in the praise and glorification of the Lord of the Kingdom; sing a song which shall set aflame the world and render melodies which are effective in the hearts. I hope that thou wilt sing such song and cause life to revive the hearts.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-Feb-26, to Emma E Holmes -- AB09485)
At times it plays the tune of Hijaz, and at other times it raises high the melody of Shahnaz-i-'Iraq. Sometimes it plays the station of lovers, and at times it gives voice to the sighs and lamentations of the yearning ones.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Aqa Siyyid Husayn -- AB09989)
Thou must come with the old song, so that the melodies and harmonies may impart the utmost joy and fragrance.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Jul ca., to Louise Waite -- AB10049)
O Persian bird! The time has come for you to begin a melody in the meadow, to sing a song in the rose garden, and to tune the harp and lute.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Khudadad Jamshid Rahmatabadi -- AB10066)
Breathe forth from the world of mystery and play the shahnaz [a musical mode], that the birds of the meadow may come at thy melody and voice and raise their trilling songs.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1911-Aug ca., to Siushansiyan Parsi, Tirandaz -- AB10453)
O Rustam, praise be to God that in the feast of worship thou art a player, performer and singer, and art in harmony and concert with the birds of the world, and art intimate and confidant with angel and fairy.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1919-Jun-24, to Rustam Bihmard -- AB10509)
O cultured Colonel! Set your aim toward the Concourse on High and compose a melody with the strains of the Abha Kingdom. Play the harp and lute that you may discover the hidden mysteries and guarded secret of the peerless Lord and open your eyes to behold the realm above.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Mirza Aqa Bashir Ilahi (Bashirus-Sultan) -- AB10519)
O melodious bird! Various birds in plain and mountain, flower garden and rose garden sing songs, cry out and lament, but the nightingale of faithfulness upon the rose branch raises the divine anthem and the All-Merciful melody, and explains the mysteries of inner meanings and realities.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1917-Jan-22, to Mirza Muhammad Tabrizi -- AB11681)
Every bird that raises its voice and melody in this meadow, that strikes up a tune and song, is indeed a nightingale of the garden of immortality, a phoenix of the mount of faithfulness, and a musician with instrument and song.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-Mar-05, to Jalal Bashir Rahmani Farani -- AB11740)
This melody and tune becomes the cause of radiance, progress and culture. You must play such a divine melody and tune with reed and harp that the listeners pass beyond name and fame, become wholly attracted to the colorless realm, and become bewildered by the King of existence and the unlimited Reality.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Dec-18, to Jalal Bashir Rahmani Farani -- AB11785)
In gatherings and meetings, play and sing with the melody of Barbad and the psalms of David, that the angels of the Supreme Concourse may experience joy and delight and obtain spiritual happiness.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Ali-Akbar Rawhani Muhibulsultan -- AB11980)
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Dec-06, to Corinne True -- AB12024)
We saw that they had prepared a big banquet with sweets and cakes of many kinds. There were well known musicians who played and sang. Pianists, violinists, cellists, flutes players and one young man and a young lady sang.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Fugeta, Dr. Esslemont et al, spoken on 1920-Jan-10 -- ABU1579)
This song cheered me, for it proved to be a strain of the music of the Supreme Kingdom, an anthem which connotes that of heaven, and a refrain indicative of the divine, even as a ray of the sun is indicative of the sun. It is just as a strain cheers the heart that anthem of the Kingdom moves the heart of existence.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Miss Ollie Gish, spoken at 1815 California Street on 1912-Oct-07 -- ABU1962)
A.B.: There is no doubt that music has therapeutic effect over the body. The ancient physicians healed many sicknesses with music. Some of the ailments ware healed by treating trough music. There is no doubt that the body of man receives exhilaration through the effect of music.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Frank Carroll Giffen, spoken at 1815 California Street on 1912-Oct-07 -- ABU2123)
In this great dispensation music is one of the arts that is highly approved and is considered to be the cause of the exaltation of sad and despondent hearts.
Music is most important. Music is the heart's own language. Its vibrations uplift the spirit; it is very beautiful and a great art.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá -- ABU2304)
O God! Make this servant melodious, attuned with the airs of the Suprem Concourse, and confer upon him a thrilling and resounding voice, like the nightingale of hidden meanings in the Divine Rose Garden.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910, to a musician -- AB11417)
Further quotations · supplied wording and references
In all their efforts to achieve the aim of the Four Year Plan, the friends are also asked to give greater attention to the use of the arts, not only for proclamation, but also for the work in expansion and consolidation. The graphic and performing arts and literature have played, and can play, a major role in extending the influence of the Cause. At the level of folk art, this possibility can be pursued in every part of the world, whether it be in villages, towns or cities.
Ridvan.1996, Ruhi7.3.9
The day will come when the Cause will spread like wildfire when its spirit and teachings will be presented on the stage or in art and literature as a whole. Art can better awaken such noble sentiments than cold rationalizing, specially among the mass of the people.
LG#338 (10 Oct. 1932 on behalf of Shoghi Effendi)
Continue exploring
For thought and discussion
Questions to carry forward
- What experiences help you understand the image of music as a ladder for the soul?
- How do a performer’s intention, the meaning of a text, and a listener’s state of mind interact in a musical experience?
- What would it mean to take both artistic excellence and spiritual purpose seriously in teaching children music?
- How can a community welcome unfamiliar musical traditions while remaining attentive to the purpose of a gathering?
- Which passages concern musical practice, and which use music as an image for spiritual life; how do those uses illuminate one another?
- What might allow the joy of a song to grow into lasting fellowship, service, or a changed way of listening?