Fifty days in a ruined barracks, bad water and worse air, three deaths without a physician, and still no one has named the crime or held an inquiry: so Bahá’u’lláh describes His arrival in ‘Akká in a letter to an official, asking only that the ordinary laws of the state be applied to His followers as to anyone else. A petition makes visible a suffering that power would rather not see, and it must do so without surrendering dignity or courtesy. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá tells a correspondent to approach the government in a moderate manner, not adversarially; the Báb asks that forged documents be examined and the suspected persons summoned before the ruler’s own eyes. The same movement of asking turns toward God, in prayers for protection from sun and rain, for the uniting of hearts, for forgiveness, and for the strength to serve in the face of opposition. The Book of Acts records a Roman expectation that an accused person should meet the accusers and answer them, a concern for fair hearing these appeals share [1]. From here the way opens toward Bahá’u’lláh’s proclamation to the kings and rulers of the earth, and toward the manner and sweep of the revelation in which such appeals were voiced.
It is, therefore, incumbent on me to present the plea of these oppressed ones before the King of the World. I pray he may show such grace that men will behave towards these downtrodden ones as they do towards others and may not transgress the basic laws of the nations. It befits the sun to rise up and shed its light, and it behoves the cloud to pour down rain. It is, therefore, necessary for his highness the King to look after the interests of an oppressed people.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285 ca. [1868-1869], to Artur Comte de Gobineau -- BH01925)
02
Thou didst write concerning the disturbances in Bakú. Do thou have recourse to the government so that preventive measures may be taken; yet not in any adversarial fashion: rather, in a moderate manner state thou that such is contrary to justice and inimical to fellowship and love among all the subjects of the respected state.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1910-Apr-20, to Ali Akbar Nakhjavani -- AB01317)
03
We beseech from Thy royal favors that Thou wouldst investigate these recent events in Thine own exalted person, and summon the suspected individuals before Thy truth-discerning royal presence, and subject the forged and slanderous documents to thorough investigation and scrutiny. Then, after the truth hath been made manifest in the presence of the royal attendants and complete understanding hath been achieved, whatsoever Thou decreest will be the essence of justice and the very embodiment of equity. We too shall bow our heads in submission and with perfect contentment and satisfaction shall accept chains and sword.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1890 or <, to The Shah of Iran -- AB00115)
04
It would have been meet for His Majesty the Sultan to have gathered an assembly and called Us to be present, that he should have investigated the matter, and had he then found any portent of sedition, any sign of anything contrary to the Will of God, to have meted out this treatment to which he hath now resorted. He should have asked Us to present him proofs of what We profess. Should he have found Us wanting, then he could have subjected Us to whatever he wished.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285-04-30 ca. [1868-Aug-20], to words to a Turkish officer -- BHU0020)
05
No sooner had we arrived in Acre than they imprisoned us in a ruined barracks, even the women and six-month old children, and they forthwith shut the doors of entry and exit. We have now been imprisoned in the ruined barracks for fifty days, and, on account of the badness of the water and air, we have all been stricken by serious illnesses, such that, after two days, three people died without a physician or food or medicine. Up until now, we have not learnt the nature of our crime. There has been no enquiry. But neither wrongdoing nor acts contrary to the laws have ever been witnessed from us.
… We beseech your excellency to turn your attention towards us, so that the breezes of the grace and bounty of his imperial highness the Sultan may blow upon us.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285-07-04 [20-Oct-1868], to Artur Comte de Gobineau -- BH01440)
06
In the name of God and humanity we protest to you against the plight which we have been subjected to from the Turkish government.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285-04-19 [1868-Aug-9], to Napoleon III ("Throne of the Monarch of the Century") -- BH08012)
07
Since your excellency is informed as to how things are in Iran, I beg of you to present my petition before the throne of the King of the Age, that perchance he may perform an act of grace whereby the hearts of some people may be put at rest, that all may find ease in the cradle of the protection and security of the Monarch of the World and in the shadow of his bounty. The one God is witness that I have not entertained and do not entertain any thought of myself. … But since a large number of individuals have been oppressed, I have felt it necessary to explain how matters stand.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285 ca. [1868-1869], to Artur Comte de Gobineau -- BH01047)
08
The plea of these servants is that they be shown a merciful glance, so that all may dwell secure and at rest under the protective shadow of the sovereign.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Lawh-i-Napoleon I, to Napoleon III -- BH01120)
09
I have risen to mention something of my distress, that by God's will and power it may become the cause of removing oppression. … What is expected from your honor's kindness is that you will, with a glance of favor, arrange for the matter to be resolved in such a way that it is lifted from the source of the decree.
(The Báb, Letter to Haji 'Abdu'l-Vahhab, 1263 ? (Azarbayijan) [1846-1847], to Haji 'Abdu'l-Vahhab -- BB00558)
10
Therefore, I hastened to you and came as a delegate before you and appeared in your presence so that you might be the sole intermediary and proper means before a certain person for a poor, sorrowful man - that he might include him within the glances of his eye of care and take him under his protection and guardianship.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1894 ca., to Aqa Muhammad -- AB02413)
11
O thou who art firm in the Covenant! Upon reading thy letter, I immediately wrote a recommendation to the Sacred Person concerning Aqa Mirza Fath-'Ali Khan. In truth, that wronged one hath been made captive. Though he is imprisoned, yet is he near to the court of the Incomparable Lord. I hope that relief will soon be granted and mercy shown.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912 ca., to Haydar Ali Kamali Sarvistani -- AB08671)
12
I have seen a letter in his own handwriting addressed to Fath-'Ali Shah. Once, when the Shah had seized two hundred Turkomans in order to put them to death, Mirza Abu'l-Qasim wrote to the Shah, saying that they were guiltless and did not deserve to be killed.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1916-Jul-19 -- ABU1610)
13
Thirty years ago I wrote to Sultan Abdul Hamid that if thou desirest to protect thy Empire thou must give complete freedom of rights to all thy subjects no matter to what religion they may belong and establish a constitution but he did not listen and you see today the results.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to Consul Schwartz and Dr Faber, spoken at Hotel Marquardt on 1913-Apr-29 -- ABU2929)
14
Sending a petition directly and individually to the center of government is contrary to wisdom. However, whenever oppression, tyranny and cruelty occur, it is permissible to collectively present the situation and make complaints.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1906 ca., to Mahmud Zarqani -- AB05263)
15
Let there be two copies of this petition and the more the believers sign each of these two copies, the better it is. Each person must sign personally. Then (when they are finished) you must forward them here. We will write them the address and forward to that destination.
If they harass you again, write the details to Ibrahim Bey, the interpreter at the embassy, and petition His Excellency the Ambassador. If you receive no redress, write directly to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and submit a petition to His Imperial Majesty stating: "We follow the Baha'i religion and have committed no wrong.
Appeal to no authority except the government of His Imperial Majesty, and voice your complaints only in the imperial presence. Seek justice from His Imperial Majesty the King and take your grievances to the respected Prime Minister.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1903-Jul-30, to Baha'is of Tihran et al -- AB00222)
18
Present the full details to His Imperial Majesty and to His Excellency the Prime Minister, that these riffraff are unaware of the world of civilization and in the human realm are without benefit, effect or fruit - crude, ill-tempered, heedless, ignorant and enemies of the wise.
I gave a Tablet to Jamal Effendi and instructed that traveling through certain cities and following an unfrequented route he should reach Qum and to deliver the Tablet to the Sadr A'zam [Prime Minister]. He was to win an audience with the vizier, and exhibiting utmost courtesy, respect and submission present him, in private, the Tablet.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words to some friends, spoken on 1914-Oct-31 -- ABU2321)
20
We beseech God to raise up one of His servants, and to detach him from all creation, and to adorn his heart with the vesture of might and confidence, that he may help his Lord amidst the concourse of the universe, and, when he becometh aware of what hath been revealed for His Majesty the Shah, he may arise and take the Tablet, by the permission of his Lord, the Almighty, the All-Bountiful, and hasten to the residence of His Majesty.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Instructions to Badi' regarding delivery of the Lawh-i-Sultan -- BH04073)
21
The purpose of writings these lines is that a petition has been written to His Most Holy Presence - may God perpetuate His exalted glory - and entrusted to one of the friends of Truth to present immediately upon arrival and request permission for an audience. Since this was made contingent upon the movement of the royal star, the excuse for not granting audience was explained. Now that impediment has been removed, yet in any case we await what response may issue from the Holy Presence.
(The Báb, Instructions for delivery of Tablet to Muhammad Shah, 1263-r-21 -- BB00646)
22
This page of my supplication and visitation is penned from the vehemence of my heart's grief. I beseech that, in view of my poverty and my powerlessness, it may attract Thy gracious regard. Two packets as well -- from two siyyids, confessors of the oneness of God -- have arrived and were conveyed into thy Presence. Since both are known before Thy court by their own hand, I hope they will dispel the doubts of the contemplative among the people and become the means of nearness.
(The Báb, Epistle to Muhammad Shah 3, 1263-08-15 [1847-Jul-29], to Muhammad Shah -- BB00647)
23
Agreeably to this view' a letter was issued addressed to the Bab in his Majesty's own writing, and, according to the traditional account of the tenor of this letter, the epitome thereof is this:
(After the titles). "Since the royal train is on the verge of departure from Tihran, to meet in a befitting manner is impossible. Do you go to Maku and there abide and rest for a while, engaged in praying for our victorious state; and we have arranged that under all circumstances they shall show you attention and respect. When we return from travel we will summon you specially."
… Besides this the followers of the Bab recount certain messages conveyed [from Him] by the instrumentality of Muhammad Big (amongst which was a promise to heal the foot of the late king, but on condition of an interview, and the suppression of the tyranny of the majority), and the Prime Minister's prevention of the conveyance of these letters to the Royal Presence.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Maqaliy-i-Shakhs Sayyah (A Traveller's Narrative), 1886 ca. -- AB00003)
24
Regarding Jinab-i-Amin and his journey to the land of Ta, and from there with a group, upon whom be the Glory of God, to England or Tiflis to seek justice, these matters were submitted. This is what the All-Bestowing revealed in response:
"Verily, he will not fulfill your needs. They are unable to fulfill their own needs, how much less your needs.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1296 ? [1878-1879], to Siyyid Mihdi Dahaji -- BH02765)
The available source contains an omission or incomplete wording; sentence boundaries need review.
25
Regarding the response that was requested to the petition of Manakji Sahib - its sending was delayed, for today whatever occurs in any matter has been and will be the standard. Therefore, its sending is not permitted, even if the petitioner himself consents it is not permitted, unless he himself openly and explicitly requests it.
Thereafter, the petition which thou didst dispatch to the Most Holy Court arrived on the blessed night of Rabi'u'l-Avval. It was read, and after being reviewed, was brought to the Holy Presence and attained the honor of being heard.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1304 ? [1886-1887], to Siyyid Taqi Manshadi -- BH01431)
27
Among these is the binding command of His Honor - may God prolong his glory - which hath become the cause of the appearance of these published pages. It is hoped from the grace of the All-Bountiful Lord and the special favors of His Honor - may God perpetuate his prosperity - that these draft pages will prove acceptable to the sanctified minds, both in meaning and expression, until such time as the prescribed copies are published in the finest calligraphy in that grace-bestowing presence, and become the cause for manifesting gratitude's inability to thank His Honor for his bounties and serve as a reminder of Abdullah's matter which is imprinted in the mirror of his luminous thoughts, so that it may never be erased from his radiant mind.
(The Báb, Letter concerning the Nubuwwat al-Khassa, to Manuchihr Khan -- BB00515)
28
Most esteemed one! His Honor, the respected Khalil Bey has now arrived. We await your august presence, together with Mahmud Bey Effendi and His Honor the Judge, to ascend to the hotel above. It would be most excellent if you could grace us with your presence at your earliest convenience.
When they inquired about His blessed name and homeland, stating that according to law these questions must be asked and recorded, He declared: "It is more evident than the sun." When asked again, He said: "It is not befitting to mention the name. Look at the government decree which you have." Then, with utmost gentleness, they requested that He Himself declare it. Thereupon, the Temple of Grandeur sat upright upon the chair and spoke with the tongue of power and might: "My name is Baha'u'llah and My dwelling place is Nur."
(Bahá’u’lláh, to Haji Muhammad Husayn Tabib -- BH11866)
30
With regard to the late King’s assassin, His Excellency the Prime Minister informed all the consuls in the surrounding regions that, after careful investigation and inquiry, it had become clear that the contemptible assassin was an anti-monarchist and an atheist who had no affiliation with other groups. Indeed, the establishment of the truth of the matter was due to the competence, discernment, capacity, fairmindedness, and justice of the Prime Minister.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Nasrullah Baqiruf -- AB01155)
31
O you who are firm in the Covenant! Although there arose some murmuring and commotion from this test, yet through the assistance and favor of the Blessed Beauty, may my spirit be sacrificed for His loved ones, firm recommendations were made to important authorities and firm responses were received, so that oppression and transgression may not be repeated.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1920-Jul-26, to Muhammad Husayn Muhtadi -- AB07311)
32
Afterwards I sent a telegram to His Excellency the Naqib, who is the Prime Minister in Baghdad. His Excellency the Naqib rose up with determination and recovered the House from the usurpers and handed it over to the caretakers.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1921-May-23, to Ali-Akbar Rawhani Muhibulsultan -- AB11908)
33
Most mighty and noble ambassador, most great minister, may your prosperity continue, I wish to say that your letter has arrived and that it was productive of the greatest joy and happiness. We are more grateful to you than can be estimated.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285 ca. [1868-1869], to Artur Comte de Gobineau -- BH06618)
34
Your excellency's letter has been received. It showed great kindness and was productive of the utmost joy and happiness, gladness and delight. It is obvious that, whatever is done by your excellency, it will not be deficient. In reality, what you are doing involves good-will towards the King of the Age (and his government?), for a large number (of people) will arise to pray for the continuation of his rule; in all the provinces of Iran, there shall endure until the resurrection continued well-wishing for the King of the Age and for yourself.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1285 ca. [1868-1869], to Artur Comte de Gobineau -- BH07156)
35
Beseech thou God to illumine the world with the light of justice and to assist and confirm His Majesty the Shah. Despite the impertinence of some in the early days, He hath repeatedly in recent years protected the oppressed from the tyranny of the ignorant - once in Ha and Mim, again in Qaf and Mim, and in other places, as when He graciously granted freedom to the prisoners in the Land of Ta.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307-04-05 [1889-Nov-29], to Mulla Muhammad Qa'ini (Nabil-i-Akbar) -- BH01084)
36
O Zaynu'l-Muqarrabin! This Wronged One beseecheth God to adorn the sovereign of Iran with the light of justice and fairness. In recent years his majesty's heart hath turned toward the oppressed ones. It is hoped that gradually the fruits thereof may emerge from the unseen into the visible realm, and from concealment into the arena of manifestation, inasmuch as this Wronged One hath loved and still loveth faithfulness, and hath desired to behold the realm of Iran as it behooveth. We beseech God to assist his majesty in that which He loveth and is pleased with.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307 ? [1889-1890], to Zaynul-Muqarrabin -- BH11622)
37
Say:
My God, my God! I beseech Thee by Thy Manifestation through which the Prophets and Messengers arose and whereby Thou didst raise the standard of "There is none other God but Thee" upon the most exalted station of existence, to adorn the Shah of Iran with the lights of grace and beneficence. O Lord! Aid him in pure justice that through it the horizons of Thy dominion may be illumined.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307 ? [1889-1890], to Haji Mirza Haydar Ali Isfahani et al -- BH11577)
38
Convey greetings to the General of that land on behalf of these people who are scattered throughout the world, and say: This people, in view of the favor that hath shone forth from the horizon of the heaven of justice of His Majesty the Emperor, are all looking unto him and holding fast unto his good-pleasure. For this reason the oppressive souls have instigated a group against this wronged people, and have again stained the soil of some lands with blood shed in the path of God. We beseech God to assist that Dawning-Place of justice and equity in protecting this wronged band.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1308-11-24 [1891-Jul-1], to Siyyid Ali Afnan son of Afnan Kabir et al -- BH00207)
39
Beseech ye the one true God that He may unveil before His Majesty the Sultan and His Highness the Grand Vizier that which will enable them to become aware of this Wronged One's purpose and aspirations. By God! They would then find themselves established upon a ship which no winds could move and no waves could harm.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307 ? [1889-1890], to Ibn-i-Abhar -- BH01284)
40
His Majesty the Sovereign Sultan Abdul-Hamid Khan, may his victory be mighty, is truly just and prayers for his welfare are necessary and obligatory for all. We beseech God to make manifest to him the sincerity of this community, and likewise sincerity toward others.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1894 ca., to Mirza Musa Hakimbashi -- AB02969)
41
O my God, O my God! I ask Thee by Thy strengthening grace, and by Thy divine and unseen assistance, and by the outpourings of Thy mercy, to aid the exalted Ottoman government and the Caliphate of Muhammad in becoming established in the earth and firmly seated upon the throne, and to safeguard her regions from calamities and preserve her center of authority from afflictions.
O Lord! Keep her in the shelter of Thy guard and protection, preserve her with the eye of Thy loving-kindness, and surround her with the glances of Thy divine mercy.
This Wronged-One wrote him, "Put away such thoughts. Praying for the Shah is obligatory for you, all Iranians, and Us. We do not desire liberty, nor rule. Were We after leadership, what authority could have been better than occupying the post of minister in Tihran? For the sake of God, We have arisen to improve the morals of a number of people, wronged in this world. Never again write in this vein to Us. Never again put such requests to this Wronged-One."
(Bahá’u’lláh, words recollected by Mirza Habibu'llah Afnan, 1308-1309 [1891-1892] -- BHU0066)
43
(And repeatedly during this journey, petitions of submission and supplication from the concealed ones and Nasiri'd-Din Shah would reach the Most Pure sight, mentioning the transgressions of the early days of the aforementioned Shah, and He would say:)
"Now if he were to raise his head from the grave, he would see what has transpired."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken on 1913-Jan-22 in Paris -- ABU2068)
44
At twelve o'clock the Minister of war came out of his office and seeing a crowd went to investigate. When the man saw the Minister of war coming he added to his cry and lamentation. "What is this?" The Minister inquired. "Your Highness. This man who is from the province of [...] has dropped dead here. He was a stranger amongst us and I am trying to collect money from these noble citizens for the expenses of his burial."
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Words spoken at Rue St. Didier 30 in Paris, 1913-Feb-24 -- ABU1340)
The available source contains an omission or incomplete wording; sentence boundaries need review.
45
I beseech the favors of His Imperial Majesty and Your Highness that you would honor this supplicant with your royal favors and benevolence, your grace and mercy.
(The Báb, Tawbat-namih (authenticity disputed), 1264-07 ca. -- BB00460)
46
O branch of the Tree of the All-Merciful!
Aqa 'Abdu'l-Ghaffar has repeatedly made the utmost complaints about his father Haji Muhammad Ibrahim, and has raised lamentation and outcry. He has exhibited such agitation and distress that it defies description. In these days he has again written a letter of complaint through you and raised lamentation and cry.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1902 ca., to Mirza Buzurg Afnan Alai -- AB08807)
The available source contains an omission or incomplete wording; sentence boundaries need review.
47
In truth, he committed oppression and transgression, and whatever you say in complaint and however much you cry out and lament, you are justified. And whatever punishment I give him would be deserved, and however much he repents and turns in contrition, he will not be excused or pardoned. You are in the right and he is in debt, rather deserving unlimited retribution.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1900 or <, to Kawkab Sultan wife of Muhammad Alaqihband -- AB01790)
48
O thou firm in the Covenant! You asked that if someone makes a vow to 'Abdu'l-Baha, should the proceeds and income from it be sent or distributed to the poor? In any case its expenditure must be with permission and authorization. Similarly, the expenditure of endowment proceeds must now be with 'Abdu'l-Baha's permission and authorization.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Dec-18, to Haji Muhammad Ali Shirazi -- AB01192)
49
O Physician! We hear the lamentation of the House. It saith: "O Lord! Deliver me from the wrongdoing people. O my God! Send forth one who will take me, free me, and restore me. Thou art, verily, powerful over this, and Thou art the Mighty, the Omnipotent. How long shall I remain in the possession of those who have denied Thee and Thy mighty signs? O Lord! Deliver me from these unbelievers who heard not Thy call nor answered Thee.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Lawh-i-Tabib, 1290 [1873] or earlier, to Tabib -- BH01027)
50
Thou seest how the Dayspring of Utterance hath been prevented from the wondrous expressions of Thy remembrance by reason of what the hands of the tyrannical ones among Thy servants have wrought, and how they have forbidden Thy loved ones, who have sought Thy face from diverse regions and countries, from attaining His presence.
(Bahá’u’lláh, to Ismiu'l-Ha (one of the Nurayn-i-Nayyirayn) -- BH04747)
51
O Lord! Thou beholdest the believers among the idolaters, and there hath befallen them that which hath caused the dwellers of Thy Paradise and celestial garden to lament. I beseech Thee to preserve them from the evil of the aggressors and the oppression of the oppressors.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1306-10 [1889-May], to Ali Askar who has attained, father of Nad-Ali et al -- BH01197)
52
O Lord! Verily Thy servant who is humbled at the threshold of Thy holiness, who hath spread the carpet of justice among Thy creatures, who hath raised the pavilion of equity in those regions, who hath protected the oppressed from the evil of the people of tyranny - he hath preserved Thy stranger servant in those lands who diffuseth the holy fragrances among the righteous, and he hath delivered him from the evil of the wicked ones who have forgotten Thy remembrance and who have transgressed against Thee and who have rebelled, from every wicked infidel.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1908-Feb-04, to Hadrat-i-Hisam -- AB03604)
53
Now, with an illumined heart, a merciful spirit, heavenly attraction and divine confirmation, visit the Sacred Threshold on behalf of 'Abdu'l-Baha. Place your brow upon the Threshold of the Manifest Light, perfume your face and hair with its radiant and fragrant dust, and in utmost lowliness and need, supplicate and beseech on my behalf, and seek confirmation and success. For great trials lie ahead and numerous difficulties surround us, and 'Abdu'l-Baha is in utmost weakness and feebleness. Therefore, he is in need of the assistance of the Most Great Name and dependent upon the favors of the Ancient Beauty, that in this path the confirmations of God may become the best guide and His grace may become the companion of the way.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912 or <, to Aqa Zaynu'l-Abidin (Pilgrim) -- AB00700)
54
O handmaiden of God! Your esteemed husband reached the threshold of the Most Great Name, and placed his head upon the dust of the Court, and beseeched assistance and bounty that all the family, nay rather the entire household, might become, through the blessing of the Ancient Beauty, the manifestations of the Most Great Grace, and attain supreme triumph, and find their way to the highest paradise, becoming verses of guidance and signs of the Abha Kingdom.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Aug ca., to Dilshad wife of Nasrullah -- AB11793)
55
Glorified art Thou, O God of earth and heaven and Lord of all mankind! I beseech Thee by that which was hidden in Thy knowledge, inscribed in Thy Book, and recorded by the Pen of Thy Command, to aid Thy servants to acknowledge Thy unity and confess Thy singleness. O Lord! Withhold them not from the ocean of Thy grace and the heaven of Thy bounty. Thou knowest what is in their hearts and hast power to transform and build them anew. They are Thy servants and Thy creatures; Thou hast manifested them through Thy bounty and fashioned them through Thy grace. I beseech Thee to protect them from the heat of the sun and the harm of the rains.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1302-07-14 [1885-Apr-29], to Muhammad et al -- BH00185)
56
In the name of my Generous Lord and my Merciful God. Look upon my wretched state. I am helpless and weak, impatient and restless. I place my hope in Your grace and favor. I am without head or order, broken-hearted and scattered, dejected in heart and withered in soul. I seek aid, protection and mercy. I am helpless, fallen, and wandering. I seek grace and benevolence. I am sorrowful, my heart bleeds, I am distracted. I hope for endless favors. My Lord, bestow Your grace, Your care, Your protection. I seek the gift of both worlds.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1912-Jan-10, to Liza Khanum wife of Aqa Musa -- AB11937)
57
O my God, my Lord! We are weak and hopeful of Thy grace. We cling to the cord of Thy generosity and hold fast to the hem of the robe of Thy bounty. Leave us not to ourselves. O Mighty One, take the hands of the weak and deliver them from the abyss of idle fancies and desire. Thou art the Helper and Thou art the Powerful. We are helpless and we are weak. Without Thy grace, the spirit hath no comfort, and without Thy bestowal, the soul hath no effect. O Generous One! Adorn our unworthy deeds with the ornament of acceptance, and conceal our unseemly words with Thy forbearance.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1302-07-07 [1885-Apr-22], to Haji Mirza Muhammad Yazdi Alaqihband -- BH00215)
58
My God, my God! Save me by the arm of Thy power from the pit of self and passion, and deliver me from the fire of tyranny and transgression. I know not, O my God, with what countenance to turn to Thee, after knowing that my trespasses and errors have come between me and Thy good-pleasure and nearness, and have prevented me from appearing before the throne of Thy justice.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307-04-05 [1889-Nov-29], to Mulla Muhammad Qa'ini (Nabil-i-Akbar) -- BH00085)
59
Glory be unto Thee, O God of Names and Creator of heaven! We confess our powerlessness, our shortcomings, our transgression of our bounds, and our misdeeds that have prevented us from drawing nigh unto Thee, and our sins that have come between us and the effulgences of the lights of the Sun of Thy grace and the manifestations of Thy favors. O Lord! We have fled from ourselves to the shadow of the canopies of Thy generosity. I beseech Thee by the Dawning-Places of Thy revelation, the Daysprings of Thy inspiration, the Recipients of Thy knowledge, the Manifestations of Thy Self, the Sources of Thy Cause, and by the Seal of Thy Prophets, to assist us in what hath escaped us, then illumine our hearts with the lights of Thy knowledge.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1303-06-10 [1886-Mar-16], to Aqa Ghulam-Husayn -- BH01308)
60
Say:
My God, my God! I am Thy servant and the son of Thy servant. I beseech Thee to assist me in uniting the hearts of Thy loved ones and setting right their affairs in Thy days. I testify, O my God, to my poverty and Thy wealth, my powerlessness and Thy might, my weakness and Thy strength. I beseech Thee by the ocean of Thy mercy and the heaven of Thy wisdom to aid me in that which Thou lovest and art pleased with. Then I beseech Thee, O God of Names and Creator of heaven, by Thy Most Great Prison and Thy tribulations among the nations, and by Thy utterance through which Thou didst subdue the world, to make me a banner of Thy Name and an ensign of Thy love.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1308-05-27 [1891-Jan-8], to Abu'l-Hasan-i-Ardikani (Haji Amin) -- BH00247)
61
I beseech Thee by Thy Name, the Manifest, the Hidden, and by Thy Mystery, the Brilliant, the Treasured, and by the lights of Thy countenance in the supreme horizon, and the appearance of Thy glory in the kingdom of creation, to assist Thy loved ones and chosen ones to serve Thy Cause, that there may appear from them that which shall cause their mention to endure in every world of Thy worlds.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1300-04 [1883-Feb], to Mirza Sadiq (son of Mahbubush-Shuhada) et al -- BH00148)
62
O my God, Supporter of the sincere ones and those steadfast in Thy Covenant and confident in Thy promise! Aid these, Thy servants, to serve at the threshold of Thy holiness, and make them signs of guidance and stars of piety, shining from the supreme horizon and gleaming from the highest zenith. Make firm their feet that they slip not through the doubts of the people of passion and desire. Verily, Thou dost protect whomsoever Thou willest through Thy power that prevaileth over all things. Thou art, verily, the Almighty, the All-Powerful.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Muvaffaq, Muhammad Khan et al -- AB00450)
63
Rest assured that you shall not be forgotten for the twinkling of an eye. Therefore strive with heart and soul to become a trusted messenger and clear herald of the breaths of the All-Merciful. No obstacle shall prevent this communication. The hand of oppressors' aggression falls short, and the efforts of the tyrannical come to naught.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1917-Jan-29, to Mahmud Furughi -- AB02466)
64
This is a Book sent down by the Lord of Names while He was in the hands of enemies who broke God's covenant and testament, denied His proof and evidence, and disbelieved when He came with manifest sovereignty. We summoned all, without veil or barrier, unto God, the Lord of the worlds. We stood before all faces, speaking that which would draw them nigh unto the Most Great Ocean which surgeth by My Name, the All-Compelling over all who are in the heavens and earth.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1304 ? [1886-1887], to Mirza Muhammad Baqir Khan Shirazi -- BH05130)
65
The Wronged One makes mention of thee for the sake of God and reminds thee of His verses which hold sway over all who are in the heavens and on earth. The light hath dawned from the horizon of the heaven of utterance, whereby the earth hath been illumined, yet the people remain behind an obvious veil.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1306-07-04 [1889-Mar-6], to Aqa Shaykh Muhammad Arab et al -- BH00107)
66
A hundred thousand blessings upon those souls who in these days have attained unto the grace of God, for the Word of God shall not be seized by extinction, nor shall change find any way unto it. The Tongue of Grandeur beareth witness unto this, even as it hath testified before. Verily He is the One with power to do as He willeth, in the beginning and in the end.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1306-12-24 [1889-Aug-21], to Ibn Asdaq (Hand of the Cause) et al -- BH00019)
67
O thou grief-stricken wise one! At every moment we lift our eyes to the Most Glorious Kingdom saying: "O Thou peerless Beloved and matchless Lord! Through pure grace and bounty Thou didst open the gates of bestowal, and didst illuminate Thy face, and didst captivate hearts, and didst remove sorrows, and didst sing such a melody that hearts became enchanted and minds became intoxicated.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, to Kashani, Ghulam Ali father of Mihdi -- AB06751)
68
He seeks assistance from You, takes refuge in Your shelter, and seeks protection in Your proximity. He wishes for preservation and security, and seeks aid, safeguarding and tranquility, so that You may confirm him in achieving a life of comfort, joy and ease with each new day, that he may delight in the gardens of prosperity and trail the hem of abundance.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1909-Jan-27, to Muntasirud-Dawlih -- AB07078)
69
Nothing in the heavens or on earth is too great for Thee, and with Thee is the knowledge of all things in a clear Book. O God! Thou knowest my secret and my public acts, and numerous books have come down to me from the people of Thy obedience, after I had delegated save to him who was exalted in some days and to him who was most worthy of the Book.
(The Báb, Prayer in reply to Mulla Ahmad Khurasani, Di'bil, et al, 1261-09 [1845-Sep], to various inquirers including Mulla Ahmad, Ibn-i-'Ali, and one of the A'rab -- BB00138)
70
O God! I beseech Thee by Thy Divinity which shineth forth above all things, to have mercy upon and honor every being whose name beginneth with Alif and who is related to the Tree of Affirmation, by Thy Self-Subsistence which sustaineth all things. Verily, Thou art the All-Bountiful, the Most Generous.
(The Báb, Du'a' li'l-Ithbat (prayer of affirmation), 1265 mid-late [1848-1849] -- BB00142)
71
Therefore, O my God, send down every good thing encompassed by Thy knowledge upon Thy Friend who standeth by Thy Cause, who awaiteth Thy promise, who watcheth for Thy decree, who is victorious through Thy hosts, and who possesseth all things through Thy sovereignty, in such wise as none save Thee can comprehend.
(The Báb, Li-Qa'im, unknown (Chihriq?) -- BB00261)
72
I beseech Thee, O my God, by the essence of all things, that Thou protect those who are in the Bayan and guide them upon the path before Him Whom Thou shalt make manifest in truth, through Thy grace, Thy generosity, Thy bounty and Thy favor.
Glory be unto Thee, O Light of the world and Manifestation of the Unseen amidst the nations! I beseech Thee by Thy mysteries hidden in Thy knowledge and Thy verses treasured therein that Thou ordain for Thy Afnan, whom Thou hast related to Thyself and mentioned from Thy Most Exalted Pen in Thy Scriptures and Tablets, the good of the hereafter and of this world and whatsoever beseemeth Thy generosity and bounty, O Lord of Names and Creator of heaven!
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1303-08 [1886-May], to Aqa Mirza Muhsin Afnan -- BH00776)
74
Make mention, on behalf of this Wronged One, of the followers of Zoroaster, upon them be God's loving-kindness. God willing, may they drink from the chalices of utterance of the Goal of all worlds that were previously sent, that which shall free and detach their hearts from all else save God.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1305-10-24 [1888-Jul-4], to Haji Mirza Aqa Afnan -- BH01240)
75
Say:
O my God and the God of all worlds, my Goal and the Goal of all who dwell in the heavens and the earth! O Thou towards Whose heaven of grace all hands are upraised, towards Whose horizon of bounty and favor all eyes are fixed, and by the sweet savors of Whose days of reunion and the fragrances of Whose robe of nearness and meeting all hearts are stirred! I beseech Thee by Thy Name, through which Thou wert wronged amongst Thy creation and imprisoned amidst Thy creatures, to preserve me beneath the shade of the Tree of Thy mercy. Then ordain for me what Thou hast ordained for Thy chosen ones, and decree for me the reward of those who have attained unto Thy presence and stood before Thy face.
(Bahá’u’lláh, Lawh-i-Sirr al-Tankis, to Lur-i-Bakhtiyari, Darvish Ali et al -- BH00415)
76
I beseech Thee by the mysteries of Thy Kingdom and Thy Dominion, and by that which hath been inscribed in Thy Scrolls and Thy Tablets, to make us among those who have held fast to the cord of Thy love and have clung to the hem of Thy mercy, which hath preceded all who are in Thy heaven and on Thy earth.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1307 ? [1889-1890], to Husayn et al -- BH00182)
77
Say:
My God, my God! Praise be to Thee for having shown me Thy highest horizon and caused me to hear the shrill voice of Thy Most Glorious Pen. I testify that Thou hast guided them that are on earth to Thy path, made them to know Thy proof, and commanded them to that which profiteth them in every world of Thy worlds. I beseech Thee by the billows of the ocean of Thy knowledge, by the standards which Thou didst raise up by Thy command, and by the signs which were elevated throughout the earth by Thy power and sovereignty, that Thou forgive Thy servants even as Thou didst forgive him who gave up his spirit in Thy path.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1304 ? [1886-1887], to Siyyid Mihdi Dahaji et al -- BH00728)
78
Having taken the cup of My loving-kindness and drunk therefrom the choice wine of My utterance, say: My God, my God! Thou seest me advancing towards that whereunto Thou hast bidden me turn, clinging to Thy Most Firm Handle, and awaiting the wonders of Thy mercy, O Lord of all being and King of the throne above and the earth below. O Lord! I beseech Thee by the fire of Thy love which hath enkindled the hearts of Thy chosen ones, and by the wine of Thy utterance which hath attracted the hearts of Thy loved ones and so transported them through the potency of Thy Word that they hastened unto Thy good-pleasure - neither were they held back by the ranks of the oppressors from turning to the light of Thy countenance, nor by the might of the aggressors from drawing nigh unto Thy station - to assist me to serve Thee and to exalt Thy Word.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1305 ? [1887-1888], to Ismullah (Ismi) et al -- BH00815)
79
Glory be unto Thee, O Thou Who answereth them that are in distress and Who art the Refuge of them that flee! I beseech Thee by the heaven of Thy Will and the ocean of Thy Purpose and the sun of Thy Wisdom to make Thy loved ones among those whom Thou hast described in Thy Books and Thy Scriptures and Thy Tablets. Then protect them, O my God, from the evil of Thy creatures who have broken Thy Covenant and disbelieved in Thy proof and disputed Thy signs and denied Thy clear tokens after they had encompassed Thy heaven and Thy earth. Then inspire them, O God of the world and Lord of eternity, with that whereby Thy Cause may be exalted in Thy dominion.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1297-12-16 [1880-Nov-19], to Mirza Abdullah Falah from Sad -- BH01202)
80
Glory be to Thee, O Thou in Whose grasp is the reins of existence! I beseech Thee by the light of Thy countenance and the splendor of Thy face to assist Thy servants to remain steadfast in Thy Cause in such wise that the oppression of those who have denied Thy signs may not grieve them. O my Lord! Purify the earth from the defilement of these ones and sanctify it from those who have turned away from Thee and have risen to destroy Thy House which was built by the hands of Thy power. O my Lord! Ordain for me and my brothers that which will benefit us in all the worlds of Thy worlds. Verily, Thou art the Almighty, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1300-10-13 [1883-Aug-17], to Abu'l-Hasan-i-Ardikani (Haji Amin) -- BH01603)
81
O my Lord! Thou seest the poor one standing before the gate of Thy riches, and the supplicant awaiting the wonders of Thy generosity and bounty. I beseech Thee to ordain for me what Thou hast ordained for Thy loved ones and chosen ones.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1306-10 [1889-May], to Yusuf Khan -- BH05629)
82
Say:
My God, my God! I beseech Thee by Him through Whom Thou didst aid Thy Cause and manifest Thy Will and raise high the banners of Thy Unity and the standards of detachment, and by His family and companions, to make this servant of Thine one who acts according to Thy command, who speaks Thy praise, and who hopes for Thy grace from the horizon of Thy bounty. O my Lord! Ordain for me that which will not cease to spread its fragrance throughout the eternity of Thy names. Thou art verily the Almighty, the Powerful, and worthy to answer prayer.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1304 ? [1886-1887], to Aqa Muhammad Baqir (Harful-Ba) -- BH06105)
The available source contains an omission or incomplete wording; sentence boundaries need review.
83
I beseech Thee, O Lord of the worlds and Sovereign of nations, by Thy Most Great Name, to assist me in that which will draw me nigh unto Thee and will exalt my mention amongst Thy servants. Then ordain for me through the Pen of Destiny the good of both this world and the next.
I beseech Thee by the Name through which Thou didst cause the seas to surge and the winds to blow, to open before the faces of Thy servants the gate of Thy knowledge, and then to give them to drink, O my God, from the Kawthar of reunion through the hands of Thy bounty.
(Bahá’u’lláh, 1297-11-12 [1880-Oct-16], to Mulla Hasan Ta Bi -- BH09861)
85
Say:
"My God, my God! Draw Thy loved ones nigh unto that station from which the fragrance of Thy meeting is wafted. O my Lord! They are Thy servants and Thy creation. They desire naught except to attain presence before the throne of Thy grandeur and to arrive at that place wherein Thy most sweet call and the shrill voice of Thy Most Exalted Pen are raised. O my Lord! Draw them nigh through Thy will, then cause them to enter through that gate which Thou hast opened unto the world through Thy Most Great Name. Verily Thou art the Almighty, the Mighty, the All-Bountiful."
O Lord! Separation from Thee hath caused my death, and my liver hath melted from remoteness from the court of Thy nearness. I beseech Thee by the power through which Thou didst transform remoteness into nearness and darkness into light, to ordain for me by Thy Most Exalted Pen that which Thou hast ordained for Thy chosen ones and trusted ones. Then cause me, O my God, to be so set ablaze with the fire of Thy love that Thy servants may be enkindled thereby.
O Lord! Proffer me these cups, deliver me from the desolation of souls, and raise me to Thy luminous threshold in the world of light and glory, that I may attain unto reunion, be saved from remoteness, and that my heart may overflow with love and faithfulness in the scene of sacrifice.
(‘Abdu’l-Bahá, 1907-Jun-20, to Baha'is of Iran -- AB00215)
88
I beseech Thee, O Creator of heaven and Lord of all names, to aid Thy servants who have turned unto Thee and have set their faces toward the court of Thy grace. Withhold them not from the stream of Thy Cause and the spring of Thy love.
(Bahá’u’lláh, ca. 1289-1290?, to Sister of Ashraf the martyr -- BH08347)
89
There is none to help me save Thee, and none to assist me except Thee. Thou art my Helper, my Protector, my Succourer, and my Companion. Therefore guard me, O my God, with the eye of Thy protection, and shelter me, O my Beloved, in the cave of Thy preservation and care. Open before all faces the gates of Thy mercy, admit me beneath the shade of the tree of Thy loving-kindness, enable me to serve Thee, and assist me to exalt Thy Word.