Issues of Society

 The Edification of the People

Source: Compilation of Compilations vol. 2

‘Abdu’l-Baha was deeply concerned with the equality and advancement of women. Additionality was a concern for what is now called intersectionality. At a time when the world was wrestling with both the idea of women’s suffrage (right to vote) and “racial equality,” He praised and empowered all marginalized aspects of humanity.

Render thanks to the Lord that among that race thou art the first believer (written to Mrs. Pocahontas Pope in Washington), that thou hast engaged in spreading sweet-scented breezes, and hast arisen to guide others. It is my hope that through the bounties and favours of the Abha Beauty thy countenance may be illumined, thy disposition pleasing, and thy fragrance diffused, that thine eyes may be seeing, thine ears attentive, thy tongue eloquent, thy heart filled with supreme glad-tidings, and thy soul refreshed by divine fragrances, so that thou mayest arise among that race and occupy thyself with the edification of the people, and become filled with light. Although the pupil of the eye is black, it is the source of light. Thou shalt likewise be. The disposition should be bright, not the appearance. Therefore, with supreme confidence and certitude, say: “O God! Make me a radiant light, a shining lamp, and a brilliant star, so that I may illumine the hearts with an effulgent ray from Thy Kingdom of Abha.” 

(From a Tablet – translated from the Persian)