Re: structurizationism
Richard, you wrote: What human structurization could be named or labeled 'emanation'? to which Mark responded: IMO, emanation is a divine structurization for the particulars, the created beings, which God emanates. I agree with Mark's comment (fortunately, so does Abdu'l-Baha... see SAQ pgs: 202-208. Nonetheless, in consideration of a human structurization that could/might be labeled I would say that would be UNITY. Lovingly, Sandra __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Announcement for Holder of the Baha'i Chair (forwarded message)
The National Spiritual Assembly of the United States is happy to share with you the below announcement prepared by the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at the University of Maryland inviting applications for the next holder of the Baha'i Chair for World Peace. As you may be aware, Dr. Soheil Bushrui, who has held this position since the inauguration of the Chair in 1991, will be retiring as holder of the Chair at the end of the current academic year. Please feel free to share this announcement with friends who might either be good candidates for this important and distinguished position or be able to suggest or encourage other qualified believers who might be viable applicants for holder of the Baha'i Chair for World Peace. *** The Baha'i Chair for World Peace Search Announcement - 2004 The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at the University of Maryland, in conjunction with its Center for International Development and Conflict Management, is pleased to announce the search for the next holder of the Baha'i Chair for World Peace. The mission of the Baha'i Chair is to develop alternatives to the violent resolution of conflict through conflict management, global education, international development and spiritual awareness. The Chair engages in a wide range of activities. It conducts and publishes research, designs and teaches courses, and organizes seminars and international conferences. All its undertakings are intended to promote an awareness of factors that create conflicts within and between nations, and among communities and individuals, and assist in the search for peaceful solutions to resolve them. Its work assumes that all legitimate forms of human expression, including literature, poetry, music, and art have a role to play in producing understanding that leads to peace. Established in 1991, the Baha'i Chair plays a central role in the university's Center for International Development and Conflict Management (CIDCM). That Center is strategically located at the nexus of theory and practice, academics and activism, economic development and civil society, technology and human needs. The projects of CIDCM have been dedicated to pursuing new and better understanding about the dynamics of conflict and conflict resolution in conflict-prone societies. For more than 20 years, scholars and practitioners at CIDCM have sought ways to understand and address conflicts over security, identity, and distributive justice. CIDCM programs are based on the belief that peace building and development-with-justice are two sides of the same coin. With this philosophy at its core, the Center has acted as a forum for the expression of a broad range of views about the transition from war to peace. CIDCM is the home of both the Baha'i Chair for World Peace and the Anwar Sadat Chair for Peace and Development, and houses major projects such as Minorities at Risk, POLITY, International Crisis Behavior, the ICONS simulations, and Partners in Conflict. Information on the Baha'i Chair and on CIDCM can be found at their respective websites: http://www.cidcm.umd.edu/bahaichair/frameset.html , and http://www.cidcm.umd.edu/ Candidates for the Baha'i Chair shall have a proven record of scholarship and teaching, and/or extensive and high level policy experience. This record shall demonstrate the candidate's expertise in the development of alternatives to the violent resolution of conflict and the promotion of global education, international development, spiritual awareness, and world trade; sufficient knowledge of the Baha'i international community and its teachings, experience, and culture to offer it as a model for study; and capacity to establish academic linkages with and provide technical assistance to Baha'i institutions in the fields of peace education and international development. Scholars and/or those with extensive or high level policy experience in a wide variety of fields will be considered, with a preference for someone with proven academic accomplishments in one or more of the social and behavioral sciences. Appointment to the Baha'i Chair will be for a five year term, renewable. Inquiries concerning the Baha'i Chair for World Peace may be addressed to Professor Jonathan Wilkenfeld, Chair, Baha'i Chair Search Committee, Department of Government and Politics, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, telephone (301)314-7703, FAX (301)314-9256, e-mail [EMAIL PROTECTED] The Search Committee will be assisted by a seven-member International Advisory Committee for the Baha'i Chair, chaired by Judge Dorothy Nelson of the US Court of Appeals 9th Circuit. For best consideration, candidates should submit a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, list of at least three references, and other relevant material by January 15, 2005. The University of
Re: posting question about Recognition Manifestation
Is there a line somewhere in Aqdas or elsewhere that says after the Recognition one should serve those that believe? Fariborz __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Re: posting question about Recognition Manifestation
In a message dated 11/21/2004 2:26:37 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Is there a line somewhere in Aqdas or elsewhere that says after the Recognition one should serve those that believe? Not to my knowledge. Obedience to the Laws comes after recognition, not obedience to others. warmest, Susan __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Re: structurizationism
Original Message from Sandra Chamberlain Mark responded: IMO, emanation is a divine structurization for the particulars, the created beings, which God emanates. I agree with Mark's comment (fortunately, so does Abdu'l-Baha... see SAQ pgs: 202-208. Nonetheless, in consideration of a human structurization that could/might be labeled I would say that would be UNITY. Dear Sandra: Thank you for the post. I was not aware of the following quotations; and probably would not have become so aware but for your post Out of the flowering of your thoughts and hopes, fragrant emanations have come my way, wherefore an inner sense of obligation compelleth me to pen these words (Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu'l-Baha, p. 246) As for offering thanks by speaking out or writing, although this is indeed acceptable, yet when compared with that other thanksgiving, it is only a semblance and unreal; for the essential thing is these intimations of the spirit, these emanations from the deep recess of the heart.(Abdu'l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu'l-Baha, p. 179) It cannot be denied that the emanations of spiritual power and inspiration destined to radiate from the central Edifice of the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar will to a very large extent depend upon the range and variety of the contributing believers, as well as upon the nature and degree of self-abnegation which their unsolicited offerings will entail. (Shoghi Effendi, Baha'i Administration, p. 181) Consider carefully: all these highly varied phenomena, these concepts, this knowledge, these technical procedures and philosophical systems, these sciences, arts, industries and inventions -- all are emanations of the human mind (Abdu'l-Baha, The Secret of Divine Civilization, p. 2) Richard. __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Re: Reading Paul through the eyes of Augustine and Luther
In a message dated 11/20/2004 3:54:37 PM Pacific Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Could you please explain, in layman's terms, what it means to read Paul through the eyes of Augustine and Luther? Augustine and Luther were very fixated with the issue of their personal sinfullness. This is what Stendahl calls the "Western Introspection" which encourages the believer to concentrate on their own utter sinfulness in contrast to God's grace. Paul is often thought to have the same introspection as reflected in the verse "that which I do not will, that thing I do, wretched man that I am." The assumption is that Paul's emphasis on Grace vs. the Law is based upon Paul's own inability as a pharisee to live up to the obligations of the Law. Stendahl argues that this is a misreading, that Paul'stheology didn't grow out of a sensitive conscience so much as a desire to make Christianity more inclusive for gentiles. warmest, Susan __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Re: posting question about Recognition Manifestation
Dear Fariborz, Personally, I cannot recall a phrase which implies ...after the Recognition one should serve those that believe... The closest would be directives to the Institutions to serve the servants. Otherwise, those references to serve that I've located seem to address the willingness to serve humanity (if you will) and exemplify the Teachings by our deeds. Service in isolation would not achieve the aim of sharing the Revelation of Baha'u'llah by word or deed, as appealing as that might be! lovingly, Sandra A few more quotes: A DESCRIPTION OF THE KITAB-I-AQDAS BY SHOGHI EFFENDI TAKEN FROM GOD PASSES BY, HIS HISTORY OF THE FIRST BAHÁ'Í CENTURY (Baha'u'llah, The Kitab-i-Aqdas, p. 11) . Bahá'u'lláh exhorts His followers to consort, with amity and concord and without discrimination, with the adherents of all religions; warns them to guard against fanaticism, sedition, pride, dispute and contention; inculcates upon them immaculate cleanliness, strict truthfulness, spotless chastity, trustworthiness, hospitality, fidelity, courtesy, forbearance, justice and fairness; counsels them to be even as the fingers of one hand and the limbs of one body; calls upon them to arise and serve His Cause; and assures them of His undoubted aid. (Baha'u'llah, The Kitab-i-Aqdas, p. 14) We cherish the hope that one of the kings of the earth will, for the sake of God, arise for the triumph of this wronged, this oppressed people. Such a king will be eternally extolled and glorified. God hath prescribed unto this people the duty of aiding whosoever will aid them, of serving his best interests, and of demonstrating to him their abiding loyalty. They who follow Me must strive, under all circumstances, to promote the welfare of whosoever will arise for the triumph of My Cause, and must at all times prove their devotion and fidelity unto him. Happy is the man that hearkeneth and observeth My counsel. Woe unto him that faileth to fulfil My wish. (Baha'u'llah, The Proclamation of Baha'u'llah, p. 13-15) The fourth Glad-Tidings Should any of the kings -- may God aid them -- arise to protect and help this oppressed people, all must vie with one another in loving and in serving him. This matter is incumbent upon everyone. Well is it with them that act accordingly. (Baha'u'llah, Tablets of Baha'u'llah, p. 22) O peoples of the world! Forsake all evil, hold fast that which is good. Strive to be shining examples unto all mankind, and true reminders of the virtues of God amidst men. He that riseth to serve My Cause should manifest My wisdom, and bend every effort to banish ignorance from the earth. Be united in counsel, be one in thought. Let each morn be better than its eve and each morrow richer than its yesterday. Man's merit lieth in service and virtue and not in the pageantry of wealth and riches. Take heed that your words be purged from idle fancies and worldly desires and your deeds be cleansed from craftiness and suspicion. Dissipate not the wealth of your precious lives in the pursuit of evil and corrupt affection, nor let your endeavours be spent in promoting your personal interest. Be generous in your days of plenty, and be patient in the hour of loss. Adversity is followed by success and rejoicings follow woe. Guard against idleness and sloth, and cling unto that which profiteth mankind, whether young or old, whether high or low. Beware lest ye sow tares of dissension among men or plant thorns of doubt in pure and radiant hearts. (Baha'u'llah, Tablets of Baha'u'llah, p. 138) Arise thou to serve the Cause of thy Lord; then give the people the joyful tidings concerning this resplendent Light whose revelation hath been announced by God through His Prophets and Messengers. Admonish everyone moreover to observe prudence as ordained by Him, and in the Name of God advise them, saying: It behoveth every one in this Day of God to dedicate himself to the teaching of the Cause with utmost prudence and steadfastness. Should he discover a pure soil, let him sow the seed of the Word of God, otherwise it would be preferable to observe silence. (Baha'u'llah, Tablets of Baha'u'llah, p. 242) __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Re: Gay rights
Dear Susan, That doesn't mean that I would vote against such things if they came up in on the ballot because I don't believe Baha'is should impose our religious beliefs on those who don't share them. I see it differently, although I am certainly not arguing against your right to vote as you think best. Gay marriage wasn't on the ballot in New York, but if it had been I probably would have voted to not allow it. An individual vote isn't imposing my religious beliefs on those who don't share them, it's just my one vote. Of course, it's easy for me to say this, because I have no loved ones who are gay (to my knowledge). Whatever one's view of Dick Cheney, it's easy to sympathize with him, and to understand why he doesn't support the amendment to ban gay marriage. Did someone say the personal is political? Tim Nolan Do you Yahoo!? The all-new My Yahoo! Get yours free! __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu
Re: posting question about Recognition Manifestation
At 5:26 PM -0500 11/21/04, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Is there a line somewhere in Aqdas or elsewhere that says after the Recognition one should serve those that believe? Fariborz __ The only thing I am aware of that ties recognition of the Manifestation directly to service is the following on page 33 of the Aqdas - Be not dismayed, O peoples of the world, when the day-star of My beauty is set, and the heaven of My tabernacle is concealed from your eyes. Arise to further My Cause, and to exalt My Word amongst men. We are with you at all times, and shall strengthen you through the power of truth. We are truly almighty. Whoso hath recognized Me will arise and serve Me with such determination that the powers of earth and heaven shall be unable to defeat his purpose. However, note the following from Questions and Answers - 104. In the Tablet to Aba Badi', this holy verse hath been revealed: Verily, We have enjoined on every son to serve his father. Such is the decree which We have set forth in the Book. Regarding service to others, we have these statements - Praise be to God! the mediaeval ages of darkness have passed away and this century of radiance has dawned,--this century wherein the reality of things is becoming evident,--wherein science is penetrating the mysteries of the universe, the oneness of the world of humanity is being established and service to mankind is the paramount motive of all existence. (Abdu'l-Baha, BWF 279) In the Baha'i Cause arts, sciences and all crafts are (counted as) worship. The man who makes a piece of notepaper to the best of his ability, conscientiously, concentrating all his forces on perfecting it, is giving praise to God. Briefly, all effort and exertion put forth by man from the fullness of his heart is worship, if it is prompted by the highest motives and the will to do service to humanity. This is worship: to serve mankind and to minister to the needs of the people. Service is prayer. (Abdu'l-Baha, PT 164-5) For service in love for mankind is unity with God. He who serves has already entered the Kingdom and is seated at the right hand of his Lord. (Abdu'l-Baha, PUP 186) In my opinion, an essential aspect of personal spiritual development for a Baha'i must include exemplifying the Scriptures thru' service to mankind. Don C He who believes himself spiritual proves he is not. __ You are subscribed to Baha'i Studies as: mailto:archive@mail-archive.com To unsubscribe, send a blank email to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] To subscribe, use subscribe bahai-st in the message body to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Baha'i Studies is available through the following: Mail - mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Web - http://list.jccc.edu/read/?forum=bahai-st News - news://list.jccc.edu/bahai-st Public - http://www.escribe.com/religion/bahaist Old Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.net New Public - http://www.mail-archive.com/bahai-st@list.jccc.edu