Inspiring Bahá'í maxims that I employ as my compass
In the Bahá'í Faith, the purpose of life is to develop spiritually and contribute to the betterment of the world. This divine guidance comes from the Manifestations of God, Divine Educators who provide laws and teachings for personal and social transformation.
Bahá'u'lláh, one such Manifestation, emphasizes the importance of purity, kindness, and radiant happiness, and the reward one receives for developing these virtues. He believes that everything in the universe, from the vast cosmos to the smallest atom, was created to support this ultimate purpose.
To align actions with this purpose, Bahá'ís are encouraged to:
- Prayer and Meditation: Prayer awakens the soul to its true identity as a "mode of the Divine Self Reflection" and removes veils blocking its radiance. This helps individuals recognize their divine potential and purpose.
- Living by Divine Guidance: Studying and embodying the teachings revealed by Bahá’u’lláh and other Manifestations endows individuals with righteousness and understanding needed to establish peace and tranquility in their personal lives and communities.
- Service and Love: Following the Manifestations’ central message of love and goodwill, Bahá'ís translate knowledge of purpose into action through service to others, promoting unity and the common good to advance social progress and world peace.
- Community Building: Participation in devotional meetings, educational programs, and collective efforts within neighbourhoods and villages fosters a path of learning and unified action that concretely reflects purpose in life and social evolution.
Acknowledging one’s weaknesses and striving to overcome them is also encouraged, as Baha'i teachings assure forgiveness for any undesirable actions. A well-known prayer of Baha'u'llah asks for guidance and the love of God's presence, while another assures that God is there to help in all aspects of life, both in good and bad times.
The ocean of Baha'i writings holds a special meaning for many, often coming to mind and guiding them through life with love, compassion, and understanding. Bahá'u'lláh's daily oration, "I bear witness, O my God, that Thou hast created me to know Thee and to worship Thee," is a profound spiritual truth for Bahá'ís.
In the Bahá'í Faith, it's important to remember that sometimes, remembering one's flaws and failures can lead to regret and guilt. However, Bahá'í teachings remind us that God is forgiving, merciful, and compassionate towards us. The purpose of human existence, according to Bahá'u'lláh, is to know and love the Creator. Engaging in some profession is highly recommended, as it helps one to focus less on unpleasant aspects of life.
References: [1] Bahá'í International Community [2] Ridvan 1963: The Advent of the Faith in the West [4] The Hidden Words
In the Bahá'í Faith, engaged in some profession can help focus less on life's unpleasant aspects, as it aligns with the purpose of human existence, which is to know and love the Creator. Striving to overcome weaknesses is encouraged, as Bahá'í teachings assure forgiveness and offer guidance for personal growth and development.
