Session 173: Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit, Pacifism, and “Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen” (Baha’i Roadmap for a Moral Society) Session 173 of “Roadmap for a Moral Society” continues a discussion of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, drawing on Some Answered Questions and explaining that souls receive grace from the outpourings of the Holy […]
Read MoreThe Peerless Vahid and the First Upheaval of Nayriz (Náris): Investigating the Báb’s Claim and the Siege of the Fort In this episode, Dr. Hussein discusses the Baha’i historical figure “the Peerless Vahid,” his background and prominence at the court of Persia’s Muhammad Shah, and his mission to Shiraz to investigate the Báb’s claim. He […]
Read MoreThis quote from Chuang Tzu’s “The Texts of Taoism” offers profound insight into the Taoist philosophy of harmonizing with the fundamental energies of life. By focusing undivided attention on one’s breath, a practitioner can achieve a state of profound tranquility and sensitivity. The reference to becoming “as a tender babe” suggests returning to a state […]
Read MoreLao Tzu’s passage from the Tao Te Ching highlights the profound concept of the value of emptiness and space. The metaphor of the wheel and the clay vessel illustrates how the utility of objects often lies in what is absent rather than what is present. In the case of the wheel, it is the empty […]
Read MoreThis passage from the Tao Te Ching by Lao-tzu highlights the theme of sensory overload and its impact on human perception and behavior. By referencing the five senses—sight, hearing, taste, and more—the text suggests that an excess of sensory experiences can lead to a loss of true perception and understanding. The metaphor of the chariot […]
Read MoreLao-tzu’s words in the Tao Te Ching emphasize the transient nature of material wealth and the dangers of arrogance. He suggests that accumulating riches, symbolized by gold and jade, can lead to a false sense of security, as they are inherently vulnerable to loss. Moreover, when wealth and honors foster arrogance, they invite their own […]
Read MoreThis metaphor from Lao-tzu’s Tao Te Ching beautifully illustrates the concept of infinite potential and the dynamic nature of the universe. Just like a bellows, which can be emptied yet retains its ability to generate air with each movement, the space between heaven and earth is depicted as a source of endless energy and possibilities. […]
Read MoreAdam & Eve, Devils and Demons, and Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit (Session 172) Session 172 of “Roadmap for Our Moral Society” continues last week’s discussion of Adam and Eve using passages from ‘Some Answered Questions,’ interpreting Adam as spirit, Eve as the insistent self, the tree as the material world, and the serpent as […]
Read MoreThe passage from Bahá’u’lláh, as quoted by Shoghi Effendi, emphasizes the profound unity of humanity, urging individuals to transcend the boundaries of nationality and see themselves as part of a larger, interconnected human family. The metaphor of all people being fruits of one tree and leaves of one bough beautifully illustrates the concept that despite […]
Read MoreThe quote is a beautiful excerpt from the Bahá’í Sacred Writings, by Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith. This passage evokes the sense of renewal and spiritual rejuvenation that comes with the arrival of spring, symbolizing a time of divine grace and mercy. The “Festival of the All-Merciful” likely refers to a significant occasion […]
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