I think praying helps to quiet the mind and awaken the spirit thus allowing one to focus and appreciate what it is one is truly seeking and also to reduce the tendency to become distracted from the goal so that what we seek may be recognized when it is presents itself.
I seek to be one with myself. I seek to be devoid of self. I seek community. I seek love. I seek justice. I seek to possess that which others may seek, though I won't call it my own.
Well, I believe the fundamental purpose of religion is spiritual guidance. So, perhaps you shouldn't think about it too much. Probably the best thing to do is pray for guidance. "To whom?", you might ask--just address that strongest feeling in your innermost heart. Then, just keep your eyes (and...
It behoveth thee to sever thyself from all desires save thy Lord, the Supreme, expecting no help or aid from anyone in the universe, not even from thy father or children. Resign thyself to God! Content thyself with but little of this world's goods! Verily, economy is a great treasure. If one of...
I think that existence in general is much simpler in the afterlife, especially in reference to an individual's existence, for it will consist of only a soul, a unified entity, not comprised of parts (I think (never been there)).
"My calamity is My providence, outwardly it is fire and vengeance, but inwardly it is light and mercy. Hasten thereunto that thou mayest become an eternal light and an immortal spirit. This is My command unto thee, do thou observe it."...
It is certain that the greatest of instrumentalities for achieving the advancement and the glory of man, the supreme agency for the enlightenment and the redemption of the world, is love and fellowship and unity among all the members of the human race. Nothing can be effected in the world, not...
I believe that we continue to progress in the afterlife. A person may not automatically become more intelligent upon the event of death, but they will at that time be endowed with a greater capacity for intelligence; for, their mind will no longer be associated with a physical brain which may be...
Obviously, to understand anything percieved, interpretation must take place. As Baha'is we are obligated to study the Writings, strive to understand them, and act according to our understanding. So, yes, in this sense the members of the UHJ are constantly involved in interpretation of the...
I'm not sure which, if any, of the functions that I attend at my local Baha'i center would be considered "services", as we have no clergy. As far as the more formal events (Feasts and Holy Day celebrations): approx. 15, children's classes: approx. 30, and deepenings: approx. 45. So, I go to the...