Tag: Baha&#039;i children class material

Professor Edward Granville Browne had his historic interviews with Bahá’u’lláh in April 1890.
The first mention of the name of Bahá’u’lláh at a public gathering in the West took place on 23 September 1893 at the World’s Parliament of Religions, held in Chicago in the United States.

YOU ARE A WRITER/REPORTER AND YOU HAVE THE CHANCE TO INTERVIEW AN IMPORTANT FIGURE IN HISTORY OR MESSENGER OF GOD

( remember we do not portray the Messengers of God)

Retell what happened in your meeting to a coworker/friend/family.

Take turns being the reporter/writer and coworker/friend/family

YOU ARE AN IMPORTANT FIGURE RULER WHO ACCEPTED / REJECTED THE LETTER FROM BAHA’U’LLAH

IMAGINE WHAT THE RULER MAY SAY OR DO IF THEY REALIZED THAT THIS LETTER COULD HAVE CHANGED THEIR PATH IN HISTORY.

OUR CRAFT IS ABOUT TRANSFORMING PAPER INTO POPUP AND OTHER 3D OBJECTS.

1. Matthew Reinhart: is pop-up cards are actual transformers. great to make and give to a fan.

Bumblebee and Optimus Prime

2. Rob Ives is one of my favorite paper engineers and he turns flat paper into working models and toys

His free designs to print, cut and glue are here

3. Simple paper toys like airplanes and fidget spinners here

4. Make a flipbook to “transform” the robots. A free printable to cut, colour and staple together. Download here

Turn Milk into Plastic

This project takes one to two days and can be done after the lesson and shown in the next class

instructions here

TEACHERS PAY TEACHERS

All about me resources – download and use to interview someone

Here is the link

I like the iPhone to fill in info about a person: here

DRAWING

Draw a picture of the Mansion of Bahjí. Here is a drawing of the corner windows of Bahá’u’lláh’s blessed room—Can you do a similar drawing? Do not depict any images related to war as we would like to focus on peace.

“The fundamental purpose animating the Faith of God and His Religion is to safeguard the interests and promote the unity of the human race, and to foster the spirit of love and fellowship amongst men.”

Download the memorization PDF (as seen above) HERE

Have a resource? Message me and I would love to add here in the blog

Tags abide beneath the shadow of the Tree of His care and loving-kindness., Baha'i, Baha'i children class material, BAHÁ'U'LLÁH HAS COME TO UNITE THE HUMAN FAMILY, children class, CRAFT IS ABOUT TRANSFORMING, Edward Granville Browne’s, facts about Baha'u'llah, Grade 4, It is incumbent upon all the peoples of the world to reconcile their differences, Message to its kings and rulers, Ruhi bk 3 children's class, Ruhi book 3, Ruhi Children Class, The Word of God has the power to transform us., with perfect unity and peace

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BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HAS THE POWER TO TRANSFORM SOULS

Post author By Carolyn
Post date March 29, 2023
No Comments on BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HAS THE POWER TO TRANSFORM SOULS

Ruhi Bk Grade 4 Lesson 13

Introducing The Principal Theme

We will try to understand Bahá’u’lláh’s station by looking at His power to transform souls.

First, let us begin by reviewing what we learned in the preceding set.

In the past few classes, we have been learning about the period of Bahá’u’lláh’s life in ‘Akká and then later in Bahjí. We saw how He proclaimed His Message to the kings and rulers of the world and called upon them to recognize His station, to embrace His teachings, and to uphold justice.

But did they do so?

The leaders at the time, like many even today, were too proud to listen to God’s Manifestation, and injustice has continued to rule the world. We know, however, that nothing could silence Bahá’u’lláh or stop the progress of His Cause. For some forty years He revealed the Word of God, and His Revelation is His most precious gift to humanity. We are able to find joy when we follow His teachings and obey His laws and commandments.

The theme of the lesson: We are told by Bahá’u’lláh that God created us out of His love for us. If we were to be deprived of God’s love, even for a moment, we would perish and be no more. It is because of His love that the sun shines, that the plants grow, that animals give birth to their offspring, and that human beings receive blessings with every breath. Our love for each other, the kindness we give and receive, the tenderness we feel in our heart for so many people, is all but a reflection of God’s love for His creatures.

And Who today manifests to the utmost perfection God’s love for humanity?

This love is manifested by Bahá’u’lláh, and His love has the power to transform us.

We have used the word ‘transform’ in our classes before.

What does it mean?

The word ‘transform’ means to change from one condition to another.

Here is an example:

A caterpillar wraps itself in a cocoon and later emerges as a beautiful butterfly. The caterpillar is transformed into a butterfly.

Or think of the land during a period of drought when water is scarce. It is hard and dry. But then the rains come and transform the barren ground into green fields.

Likewise, Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings have the power to transform our souls. Through prayer, the study of His Writings and constant effort, we can fill our hearts with His love; we become lovers of humanity, dedicated to the betterment of the world.

Today you are going to memorize a quotation in which Bahá’u’lláh tells us that, if He so wishes, He could change an atom into a sun and a drop into an ocean.

Does everyone know how small an ‘atom’ is?

Can we see an atom with our eyes?

How does an atom compare to the sun?

How does a drop compare to an ocean?

Now, imagine how the Word of God can change each one of us.

We are weak; He can make us strong. We are timid; He can give us courage. When you think of Bahá’u’lláh, then, remember always His immense love for you. Regard Him as a most loving Father, Whose teachings and counsels will guide you and make firm your steps. Become dependent on His love. Let His love give you courage, so you will grow and, like a seed that is transformed into a tree, become that which God has created all of us to be!

MEMORIZATION AID FOR 3 PRAYERS

HERE

PRAYER 1
“I implore Thee, O my God and my Master, by Thy word through which they who have believed in Thy unity have soared up into the atmosphere of Thy knowledge, and they who are devoted to Thee have ascended into the heaven of Thy oneness, to inspire Thy loved ones with that which will assure their hearts in Thy Cause. Endue them with such steadfastness that nothing whatsoever will hinder them from turning towards Thee.”

PRAYER 2
“O my Lord and my Hope! Help Thou Thy loved ones to be steadfast in Thy mighty Covenant, to remain faithful to Thy manifest Cause, and to carry out the commandments Thou didst set down for them in Thy Book of Splendors; that they may become banners of guidance and lamps of the Company above, wellsprings of Thine infinite wisdom, and stars that lead aright, as they shine down from the supernal sky. Verily, art Thou the Invincible, the Almighty, the All-Powerful.”

PRAYER 3
“O my Lord! O my Lord! This is a lamp lighted by the fire of Thy love and ablaze with the flame which is ignited in the tree of Thy mercy. O my Lord! Increase his enkindlement, heat and flame, with the fire which is kindled in the Sinai of Thy Manifestation. Verily, Thou art the Confirmer, the Assister, the Powerful, the Generous, the Loving.”

“… if it were His wish He could cause a mere atom to be transformed into a sun and a single drop into an ocean.”
Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh

Meaning Of Words In Quote

Write any words you don’t know and look them up. Use this PDF

SEND A POSTCARD

SEND TO A FRIEND OR NEIGHBOUR

USE EMAIL, SNAIL MAIL, OR HAND-DELIVER IT!

Download and print here

There are countless stories in the history of the Faith that illustrate the power of Bahá’u’lláh to transform souls. There are two such stories today for you. The first is about the outstanding believer, Nabíl-i-Akbar, and the second is about a prominent man in the city of ‘Akká who lived there at the time of Bahá’u’lláh’s exile.

We know that every day around the world, more and more people come to know about Bahá’u’lláh and His teachings. As the fire of His love is kindled in their hearts and His words fill their souls, they are able to gradually cast away the habits of an old world and to acquire the qualities of a people worthy of the task to which humankind is being called today: to establish the Kingdom of God on earth.

During Bahá’u’lláh’s lifetime, those whose spiritual eyes were open had a special privilege. As they entered into His Divine presence, they caught a glimpse of such tenderness and love, combined with such grandeur and majesty, that their souls were transformed. They became new creations.

Story 1

Nabíl-i-Akbar was a great scholar who possessed a vast knowledge of many fields. Few could match him in his eloquence. It is said that he once spoke to a group of academics in a far-off city who had not been told his identity. His listeners were lost in admiration. “Who could be so knowledgeable and present such illuminating explanations?” they wondered. “This is indeed a most exceptional man.” The only one who could possibly rival him, they all agreed, was the famous Nabíl-i-Akbar. Such was the widespread recognition of his intellectual accomplishments.

After embracing the Faith of the Báb, Nabíl-i-Akbar became a highly respected figure among his fellow believers. It was six years after his acceptance of the new religion when, while in Baghdád, he visited Bahá’u’lláh. At that time, Bahá’u’lláh had not yet openly declared His Mission, and the Bábís were not aware of His station. Nabíl-i-Akbar was received warmly at Bahá’u’lláh’s house and was invited to stay in one of the rooms set aside for guests.

Soon after his arrival, he observed a learned and highly dignified Bábí throw himself at the feet of Bahá’u’lláh. This act of extreme reverence, although sincere, did not please Bahá’u’lláh, Who asked him to rise immediately. Nabíl-i-Akbar felt Bahá’u’lláh certainly deserved respect, but he could not understand why such a prominent Bábí would worship Him so. He decided to watch Bahá’u’lláh carefully to find out whether He was endowed with special power. But he saw only humility and servitude in Bahá’u’lláh, and the more he observed Him the more convinced he became of his own intellectual superiority. So he began to think that he himself was in every way greater than Bahá’u’lláh.

One afternoon, Bahá’u’lláh arranged a meeting in His house. Nabíl-i-Akbar occupied the seat of honor, while Bahá’u’lláh sat among the friends and served them tea with His own hands. During the meeting, someone asked a question. Nabíl-i-Akbar began to speak immediately, thinking that no one else would be able to answer the question well. All the friends were silent, except Bahá’u’lláh Who occasionally while agreeing with Nabíl-i- Akbar’s explanation, would make a few comments on the subject. As Nabíl-i-Akbar heard these comments, he gradually became silent and listened more and more carefully to Bahá’u’lláh’s words. He was awed by the depth of their meaning. He felt deeply ashamed that he was occupying the seat of honor. Once Bahá’u’lláh stopped talking, he got up and went outside the room, and there he hit his head against the wall three times, furious with himself for not having seen the real grandeur of Bahá’u’lláh.

Not long after, He attended another meeting at which Bahá’u’lláh was present. This time, as he listened to Him, he discovered His words to be as priceless gems compared to which all his past learning appeared worthless. He then wrote to Bahá’u’lláh and received a Tablet from Him, which assisted him in recognizing the full glory of Bahá’u’lláh’s station.

When his eyes were opened to the light of Divine guidance, Nabíl-i-Akbar became like a flame. He could rest no longer. He returned to Persia at Bahá’u’lláh’s instruction and began to teach the Faith. In his hometown, he led numerous souls to recognize their Lord. Even the prince of the city was captivated by his eloquence, knowledge and accomplishments. Again, he became known far and wide, but this time as a follower of Bahá’u’lláh. The enemies of the Faith grew envious. Their false accusations were brought to the attention of the king, whose anger terrified the prince. He began to attack Nabíl and turned the people of the city against him. But Nabíl could not be silenced. At last they drove him out of the city. He went to Ṭihrán. There, too, he was exposed to danger at all times. But he continued to spread the Faith and became a guiding lamp to many souls. He then left for ‘Ishqábád and Bukhárá where, teaching the Cause of God to his last breath, he died in 1892. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has written of him:

“It is true that in this swiftly passing world he was the target of countless woes; and yet, all those generations of powerful clerics, . . . all of them will disappear without a trace. They will leave no name behind them, no sign, no fruit. No word will be passed down from any of them; no man will tell of them again. But because he stood steadfast in this holy Faith, because he guided souls and served this Cause and spread its fame, that star, Nabíl, will shine forever from the horizon of abiding light.”

Nabíl-i-Akbar is one of the outstanding early believers of our Faith, and when you get older, you will probably learn more about his life and deeds. Here is another story about an individual transformed by Bahá’u’lláh.

Story 2

As mentioned in an earlier class, upon their arrival in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh and His companions were publicly denounced by the enemies of the Faith. Believing these false accusations, many of the inhabitants of the city were extremely unhappy about their arrival. Among them was Shaykh Maḥmúd, a well-respected citizen who was outraged that the government had sent such people to his city and wanted to get rid of them. At one point, he even felt that he would be justified in killing Bahá’u’lláh.

Shaykh Maḥmúd had forgotten about a vision he had been told as a ten-year-old boy by an elderly friend of his father. According to the vision, someday, the Promised One of All Ages would arrive in ‘Akká. He would speak Persian and would live in a room at the top of a long flight of stairs. The old man had counseled the boy to remain vigilant so that he would recognize the Promised One. But these words had faded from his mind as he grew up.

One day Shaykh Maḥmúd hid a weapon under his coat and went to the army barracks where Bahá’u’lláh was imprisoned. He told the guards that he wanted to see Bahá’u’lláh and, because he was a well-respected citizen, they granted him permission to enter. However, when the guards announced the visitor to Bahá’u’lláh, He said, “Tell him to cast away the weapon and then he may come in.” Upon hearing this from the guards, Shaykh Maḥmúd became so confused that he left and went home.

After a while, he returned to the army barracks, still determined to kill Bahá’u’lláh. He was a strong man and decided to use his bare hands. Again he went to the guards and requested permission to enter. But this time, when they told Bahá’u’lláh that Shaykh Maḥmúd wanted to see him, He said, “Tell him to purify his heart first and then he may come in.” This left him even more surprised than the previous time, and he went off in a state of confusion.

Later he had a dream in which his father and his friend, the old man, reminded him to be attentive, otherwise he would be deprived of recognizing the Promised One. The dream had a striking effect on him. He returned to the army barracks and asked to speak to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. As he listened to the Master’s words, his hatred was washed away. Now he could be accepted into the presence of Bahá’u’lláh. With reverence, he entered into His presence and allowed his heart to be filled with His love.

The two stories in this episode offer us some insight into the process of individual transformation.

Let Us Reflect

For example, we come to understand that both Nabíl-i-Akbar and Shaykh Maḥmúd had to give up certain habits and ways of thinking in order to recognize Bahá’u’lláh’s wisdom and knowledge and be filled with the love of God.

Are there other similar insights they could gain from these stories?

For any of the figures we heard about, use the biography page to write down the information you would like to remember

Changing Enemies to Friends

Bahá’u’lláh was born some two hundred years ago, on 12 November 1817, in Ṭihrán, the capital of Persia.
Bahá’u’lláh’s given name was Mírzá Ḥusayn-‘Alí.The name of Bahá’u’lláh’s father was Mírzá
Buzurg, and His mother was named Khadíjih Khánum.
Bahá’u’lláh’s ancestors came from the district of Núr in the province of Mázindarán.
From an early age, Bahá’u’lláh showed signs of greatness.
Bahá’u’lláh did not attend school and only received some instruction at home.
As a young man, Bahá’u’lláh chose to devote His energies to the care of the poor and the defense of the weak.
At the age of eighteen, Bahá’u’lláh married Ásíyih Khánum.
Bahá’u’lláh was twenty-seven years old when, on 23 May 1844, the Báb declared His Mission.
Mullá Ḥusayn was the bearer of the Message of the Báb sent to Bahá’u’lláh in Ṭihrán.
Upon receiving the scroll of the Báb’s Writings, Bahá’u’lláh testified to the truth of His Revelation.
The province of Mázindarán, and the district of Núr in particular, became the first in all of Persia to embrace the Message of the Báb.
The independence of the Faith of the Báb from Islám was declared at the Conference of Badasht.
The Conference of Badasht took place in the summer of 1848, while the Báb Himself was imprisoned in a remote part of Persia.
Bahá’u’lláh steered the course of events at the Conference of Badasht.
At the Conference of Badasht, Ṭáhirih was given her title by Bahá’u’lláh, which means “the Pure One”, and Quddús was given his, which means “Holy”.
It was after the Conference of Badasht that Bahá’u’lláh came to be known by His title.
The term “síyáh-chál” means the “black pit”
The Síyáh-Chál was an underground prison in Ṭihrán.
Bahá’u’lláh was taken to the Síyáh-Chál in the summer of 1852.
Bahá’u’lláh was kept in the Síyáh-Chál for four months.
While imprisoned in the Síyáh-Chál, Bahá’u’lláh received the first stirrings of God’s Revelation in His soul
Bahá’u’lláh was imprisoned in the Síyáh-Chál for four months.
Bahá’u’lláh was exiled from Persia in 1853.
Bahá’u’lláh’s very difficult journey from Persia to Baghdád began on 12 January 1853 and took about three months.
Bahá’u’lláh left Baghdád for Kurdistán in April 1854.
Bahá’u’lláh spent a total of two years in Sulaymáníyyih.
Bahá’u’lláh returned to Baghdád from the region of Kurdistán in April 1856.
During the two years of Bahá’u’lláh’s absence from Baghdád, the fortunes of the Bábís had gone from bad to worse.
During Bahá’u’lláh’s stay in Baghdád, the Bábí community was revived through His love and wisdom and the power of His words.
Bahá’u’lláh was exiled to Constantinople, after staying in Baghdád for ten years.
The Book of Certitude, or Kitáb-i-Íqán, was revealed in Baghdád.
The Book of Certitude was revealed in 1862 in answer to some questions posed to Bahá’u’lláh by the Báb’s uncle.
The Book of Certitude was revealed in two days and two nights.
The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh were revealed in Baghdád.
Before departing for Constantinople, Bahá’u’lláh spent twelve days in the Garden of Riḍván.
The Garden of Riḍván was located outside the city of Baghdád.
In the Garden of Riḍván, Bahá’u’lláh declared His Mission.
The twelve-day period in April is celebrated by Bahá’ís every year as the Festival of Riḍván.
The Festival of Riḍván is the holiest and most significant Bahá’í festival.
Bahá’u’lláh and His family arrived in Constantinople on 16 August 1863.
Bahá’u’lláh remained in Constantinople for about four months.
From Constantinople, Bahá’u’lláh was exiled to Adrianople.
Bahá’u’lláh and His family arrived in Adrianople on 12 December 1863.
Bahá’u’lláh stayed in Adrianople for just over four and a half years.
Bahá’u’lláh and His family were exiled from Adrianople to ‘Akká in 1868.
In ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh and His companions were imprisoned in an army barracks.
The phrase the “Most Great Prison” refers to ‘Akká.
Mírzá Mihdí was ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s younger brother.
Mírzá Mihdí was known as the Purest Branch.
The Purest Branch was twenty-two years old when he died.
Bahá’u’lláh began the universal proclamation of His Mission in Constantinople.
During His exiles to Constantinople and Adrianople and later in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh addressed Tablets to the kings and rulers of the world.
Bahá’u’lláh called on the kings and rulers of the world to uphold justice.
The title Badí‘ means “wonderful”.
Badí‘ delivered Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet to the king of Persia in the summer of 1869.
Badí‘ was seventeen years old when he delivered Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet to the king of Persia.
Badí‘ was called the “Pride of Martyrs” by Bahá’u’lláh.
Bahá’u’lláh spent twenty-four years in ‘Akká and its vicinity, from 1868 to 1892.
After nine years of confinement in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh consented to leave its gates.
Bahá’u’lláh spent the last thirteen years of His life on this earth in Bahjí.
In one of His visits to Haifa, Bahá’u’lláh pointed out to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the spot on which the Shrine of the Báb was to be built.
The twin cities of Haifa and ‘Akká are the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá’í Faith.
Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God for nearly forty years.
Bahá’u’lláh has left humanity volumes and volumes of Divine guidance that will enable it to build a glorious new world.
The Kitáb-i-Aqdas was revealed around 1873 in the House of ‘Abbúd in ‘Akká.
In the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Bahá’u’lláh sets out the laws and commandments of this Dispensation that will enable humanity to live in accordance with the Will of God.
Bahá’u’lláh has referred to the Kitáb-i-Aqdas as the “source of true felicity”, the “Straight Path”, and the “quickener of mankind”.
The Kitáb-i-Aqdas is also known as the “Most Holy Book”.

Act Out A Transformation

A cocoon opens to a butterfly
A seed becomes a plant
Dry desert to a meadow
A person with no Faith/Belief/Virtues/Hope to a person who has

Can you think of any other transformations?

Filled Heart

We have to give up certain habits and ways of thinking in order to recognize Bahá’u’lláh’s wisdom and knowledge and be filled with the love of God.

Will do a craft like the card below with a heart or a mind that fills up with the love of God. Will post my template soon but the basic concept is the same as the card below.

TEMPLATE CARD HERE

From Brilliant Star

A Change of Heart

Divine Potery

What A Change

Download the memorization PDF (as seen above)

HERE

Have a resource? Message me and I would love to add it here on the blog

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BAHÁ’U’LLÁH REVEALED THE WORD OF GOD FOR OVER FORTY YEARS

Post author By Carolyn
Post date March 9, 2023
No Comments on BAHÁ’U’LLÁH REVEALED THE WORD OF GOD FOR OVER FORTY YEARS

Grade 4 Lesson 12

Introducing The Principal Theme

In this lesson, we will see what bounty it is that for some forty years, Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God. To begin, let us review some of the ideas discussed in Lesson 11:

Q. Do you remember what happened after Bahá’u’lláh and His family spent two years in ‘Akká?

Q. What was the name of the house where He and the family were transferred?

Q. How had the conditions of His imprisonment gradually changed in those years?

The people of ‘Akká and the local authorities had gradually come to realize they had been told lies about Bahá’u’lláh and grew to admire and respect Him. Later, through the efforts of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Who was by then a young man and so dedicated to His Father, Bahá’u’lláh moved to a place called Mazra‘ih outside the city walls.

Q. Why did He finally consent to leave, and where did He spend the final years of His earthly life?

Today Mazra‘ih and Bahjí are the most beautiful places, surrounded by gardens, and Bahá’ís from all over the world visit them every year, as well as the Shrine of the Báb, which was built on the very spot that Bahá’u’lláh pointed out during His visit to Haifa.”

Of course, you already know that, from the time Bahá’u’lláh was imprisoned in the Síyáh-Chál until the end of His life in Bahjí, He continued to reveal Divine guidance. We know, too, that, it is by studying the Utterances of God’s Manifestations in every age that humanity understands His Will for us.

In this new Age, Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God for nearly forty years. The Word of God is like the rays of the sun. Just as all created things require the rays of the sun in order to grow and develop, the human soul needs the Word of God so that it may grow and draw closer to Him.

‘The Word of God’, Bahá’u’lláh tells us, ‘is the king of words and its pervasive influence is incalculable.’

It trains and educates us. It has a special power that no other words could possibly have. It is creative. It has the power to transform us. It has the power to create in us courage, understanding, intelligence, and love.

The Word of God has the power to make of this world a new world, a world in which human beings will learn to live together in unity and harmony.”

The Word of God is an expression of His love for us. How fortunate are we to be aware of the appearance of God’s Supreme Manifestation!

In the passage you will start to memorize today, we are reminded that Bahá’u’lláh has unlocked the doors of the knowledge of God and brought forth His laws, and the passage will help you to remember as you grow that, when we follow the teachings of God and obey His laws and commandments, we find true joy. His laws are the light that guides us throughout our lives. They are the standard by which we can measure the purity of our words and deeds. They are a fortress that protects us from things that are not pleasing to God, like discord, dishonesty, and disunity.

MEMORIZATION AID FOR PRAYERS

Download the memorization aid for all prayers here

“Say: This is the Dayspring of Divine knowledge, if ye be of them that understand, and the Dawning-place of God’s commandments,if ye be of those who comprehend.”
Bahá’u’lláh The Kitáb-i-Aqdas

MEANING OF SOME OF THE WORDS IN THE QUOTE

Use this to write all the words you don’t know but want to remember!

SEND A POSTCARD

SEND TO A FRIEND OR NEIGHBOUR

USE EMAIL, SNAIL MAIL, OR HAND-DELIVER IT!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Song Who Is the Prophet of God for Today: By Saul Accouche
Yes I Believe You: By Nicolas Tchamegni

These two are just suggestions from the Ruhi.org song page. Feel free to use any of these wonderful songs. HERE

STORY 1

In this historical episode, we will read a few accounts that provide an indication of the greatness of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation.

Bahá’u’lláh was the Chosen Mouthpiece of God in this Day. Through Him flowed God’s knowledge and wisdom to humanity. What it was like during those moments when the Divine verses were being revealed by Him is difficult for us to imagine. We know from the accounts of all those who had the inestimable bounty of being in Bahá’u’lláh’s presence at such times that the forces at work were so strong that the very atmosphere and surroundings seemed to change. Ḥájí Mírzá Ḥaydar-‘Alí, who was granted this great bounty in ‘Akká, has left us one such account. He recalls the moment that he passed beyond the curtain and entered the room where Bahá’u’lláh, seated on His couch with great authority, was revealing the verses of God. The words were streaming forth from His lips like an uninterrupted rain. It seemed to Ḥájí Mírzá Ḥaydar-‘Alí that the door, the walls, the carpet, the ceiling, the floor and the air were all perfumed and illumined.

“They all had been transformed,” he tells us, “each and every one, into ears and were filled with a spirit of joy and ecstasy.”

Every object in the room had become refreshed and was beating with new life. “To which worlds I was transported and in what state I was,” he says, “no one who has not experienced such as this can ever know.”

Another believer has left us an account that gives us a glimpse of the rapidity with which Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God. This believer, who lived in ‘Akká for many years, recalls that while Mírzá Áqá Ján, Bahá’u’lláh’s secretary, was recording His words, the shrill sound of his pen could be heard from a distance of twenty paces. At the time, Persian and Arabic scripts, the languages of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation, were written with a reed pen that produced a distinct sound as it moved on the paper.

The account goes on to explain that, in those days, all the letters which arrived for Bahá’u’lláh were passed to Mírzá Áqá Ján. He would bring these into the presence of Bahá’u’lláh and, after receiving permission, would read them aloud. Bahá’u’lláh would then direct him to take up his pen and record the Tablet which was revealed in reply.

Mírzá Áqá Ján had a large ink-pot the size of a small bowl. He also had available about ten to twelve pens and large sheets of paper in stacks. “Such was the speed with which he used to write the revealed Word”, the account continues, “that the ink of the first word was scarcely yet dry when the whole page was finished.” It looked as if someone had dipped a lock of hair in the ink and applied it over the whole page. Mírzá Áqá Ján, however, was able to read the words on the page, and he would later rewrite the pages in clear penmanship. If ever there were occasions when even he could not decipher the words, he would seek the help of Bahá’u’lláh.

And why do you think that Mírzá Áqá Ján always had ten to twelve pens with him? Well, another account explains that so fast did he write down the verses which flowed from Bahá’u’lláh that the pen would sometimes jump out of his hand. He would immediately take up another pen and continue. But, we are told, there were times when not even he could keep up and he found himself incapable of writing at the speed at which the verses were revealed by Bahá’u’lláh.

STORY 2

Bahá’u’lláh has revealed hundreds and hundreds of Books and Tablets which contain the guidance that will enable humanity to build a glorious new world and live in peace and unity for thousands of years to come. From the time He was imprisoned in the Síyáh-Chál until the end of His life in Bahjí, Divine verses continued to flow from Him.

You know, for example, that the ten years He spent in Baghdád were a period of extraordinary potency. Of that period, He Himself has said:

“We revealed, as a copious rain, by the aid of God and His Divine Grace and mercy, Our verses, and sent them to various parts of the world.”

As you learned in another class, among these verses were the Hidden Words and the Kitáb-i-Íqán, or Book of Certitude. Then, while in Constantinople, Adrianople, and later in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh addressed Tablets to the kings and rulers of the world. These include, as you know, the king of Persia and the Sulṭán of the Ottoman Empire. The kings of France, Prussia, Austria, and Russia, and the queen of England also received Tablets, as did the rulers of the Americas.

It was in ‘Akká, in around 1873, while residing in the House of ‘Abbúd, that Bahá’u’lláh revealed His Most Holy Book, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Bahá’u’lláh has referred to this Book as the

“source of true felicity”, the “Straight Path”, and the “quickener of mankind”.

In it, He sets out the laws and commandments of this Dispensation that will enable humanity to live in accordance with the Will of God. When you get older you will learn about these laws in more detail. Throughout your life, as you follow His laws, you should always remember His Words:

“Observe My commandments, for the love of My beauty.”

There is a story about an early believer which helps us think about how impossible it is for any human being, even the most accomplished and learned, to write even a single word that matches the potency of the Word of God. Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl was the head of an important religious school in Ṭihrán before embracing the Cause. He was considered a most scholarly and learned man. Some of the believers who were trying to open his eyes to the truth of Bahá’u’lláh’s Revelation gave him a copy of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, the Book of Certitude. But upon reading it, he did not appreciate its depth and declared that he could write a far better book.

The following day a prominent woman went to him and asked him to write an important letter for her. She had been told that Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl was an excellent writer. He agreed and took up his pen to begin but, to his surprise, discovered that he was unable to write even one sentence. Not knowing what to do, he started to scribble on the corner of the page, but still not a word would flow from his pen. Seeing this, the woman lost her patience and rose to go. On the way out, she mockingly said to him that if he had forgotten how to write a simple letter, he should have said so and not wasted her time. Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl was extremely embarrassed. He suddenly remembered the comment that he had made the day before about the Book of Certitude and realized that his present state was the result of his arrogant belief that he could write a better book than Bahá’u’lláh. Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl felt ashamed of his own pride. Never again did he deviate from the path of humility as he went on to become an outstanding scholar of the Faith.

For any of the figures we heard about, use the biography page to write down the information you would like to remember

Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God for nearly forty years.
Bahá’u’lláh has left humanity volumes and volumes of Divine guidance that will enable it to build a glorious new world.
The Kitáb-i-Aqdas was revealed around 1873 in the House of ‘Abbúd in ‘Akká.
In the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Bahá’u’lláh sets out the laws and commandments of this Dispensation that will enable humanity to live in accordance with the Will of God.
Bahá’u’lláh has referred to the Kitáb-i-Aqdas as the “source of true felicity”, the “Straight Path”, and the “quickener of mankind”.
The Kitáb-i-Aqdas is also known as the “Most Holy Book”.

HOW FAST ARE YOU?

Remember we read about how fast Báha’u’lláh revealed the tablets and prayers?

Let us see how fast we can write what our partner has to say!

You will need a passage from any book
paper
pens

In pairs, take turns reading a passage/prayer and the other person has to write and try to keep up. They CAN NOT ask the person to STOP or SLOW DOWN!

In the end, compare what was written to what was read. What do you think? Was it easy to keep up?

MAKE A REED PEN

Hey! We may not be able to use real REEDS but we can use other stuff we have in our homes to make pens like the one ‘Bahá’u’lláh used.

GO HERE TO TRY IT OUT!

MAKE PAPER

Want to recycle paper and old material? Try making your own handmade paper.

DECORATE CALLIGRAPHY

Be not forgetful of the law of God in whatever thou desirest to achieve, now or in the days to come. Say: Praise be to God, the Lord of all worlds!
BAHA’U’LLAH

Download the memorization PDF (as seen above) HERE

Have a resource you would like to add? Send me a note at [email protected]

Tags Baha'i, Baha'i children class material, BAHÁ'U'LLÁH REVEALED THE WORD OF GOD FOR OVER FORTY YEARS, calligraphy, Grade 4, Grade 4 Lesson 12, make a reed pen, ruhi, Ruhi bk 3 children's class, Ruhi book 3, Ruhi Children Class

Baha'i Children class

BAHÁ’U’LLÁH WAS AT ALL TIMES AND UNDER ALL CONDITIONS VICTORIOUS, ACHIEVING GODS HOLY PURPOSE

Post author By Carolyn
Post date March 3, 2023
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Introducing The Principal Theme

It is hoped that, in this lesson, you will get a further glimpse of Bahá’u’lláh’s grandeur and majesty and gain an understanding that He was at all times and under all conditions victorious, achieving God’s Holy Purpose.

Let us review the following ideas:

We have already learned that Bahá’u’lláh’s life on this earth was filled with suffering. What were some of the afflictions and ordeals that He endured?

In His homeland, Persia, He was imprisoned, put in chains, and stripped of His worldly possessions.
He was then exiled four times. To where was He banished the last time, and what were the conditions like there?

Yet we also saw that, despite the efforts exerted by His enemies to still His Voice and destroy His Faith, Bahá’u’lláh continued to proclaim His Cause, to high and low alike, and He called upon the kings and rulers of the earth to uphold the principle of justice and to work for the welfare of the people of the world.

How did the kings and rulers respond to His summons?”

You will remember that, when imprisoned and in chains in the Síyáh-Chál, Bahá’u’lláh heard these words on every side:

‘Verily, We shall render Thee victorious by Thyself and by Thy Pen.’

Years later He arrived in ‘Akká, outwardly a prisoner and an exile. But you know that what He saw in the spiritual world was different. He said that He was welcomed with banners of light and that the Voice of the Spirit cried out, saying: ‘Soon will all that dwell on earth be enlisted under these banners.’

God promised Bahá’u’lláh that He would be made victorious.

Today you are going to see that soon in ‘Akká, as in other places, the hearts of the people were transformed by the loving words of Bahá’u’lláh, and the wish of His beloved son, Mírzá Mihdí, was fulfilled. His followers were able to attain His presence, and His Cause became stronger and spread wider each day. Though outwardly Bahá’u’lláh remained a prisoner, He continued to gain more and more ascendance over the powers of the earth. Every time His enemies had devised a new way to silence Him, His fame and following grew. The rulers of Persia and the Ottoman Empire were too blinded by ambition and greed to understand that they were powerless to inflict harm on His Cause.

In the passage you will memorize in this lesson, Bahá’u’lláh assures us that the Cause of God has the power to withstand all opposition. Think of all the forces that rose up against Bahá’u’lláh, and yet He was unshaken. Little did the rulers of the time realize that history would prove the Prisoner of ‘Akká to be the King of Glory.

Prayer 1

“O Lord! Enable all the peoples of the earth to gain admittance into the Paradise of Thy Faith, so that no created being may remain beyond the bounds of Thy good- pleasure. From time immemorial Thou hast been potent to do what pleaseth Thee and transcendent above whatsoever Thou desirest.”
The Báb

Prayer 2

“I adjure Thee by Thy might, O my God! Let no harm beset me in times of tests, and in moments of heedlessness guide my steps aright through Thine inspiration. Thou art God, potent art Thou to do what Thou desirest. No one can withstand Thy Will or thwart Thy Purpose.”
The Báb

Prayer 3

“O my God, the God of bounty and mercy! Thou art that King by Whose commanding word the whole creation hath been called into being; and Thou art that All-Bountiful One the doings of Whose servants have never hindered Him from showing forth His grace, nor have they frustrated the revelations of His bounty. Suffer this servant, I beseech Thee, to attain unto that which is the cause of his salvation in every world of Thy worlds. Thou art, verily, the Almighty, the Most Powerful, the All-Knowing, the All-Wise.”
Bahá’u’lláh

MEMORIZATION AID

DOWNLOAD THE MEMORIZATION AID FOR ALL PRAYERS IN THIS SET HERE

Though the forces of the nations be arrayed against Him, though the kings of

the earth be leagued to undermine His Cause, the power of His might shall stand unshaken.
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

MEANING OF SOME OF THE WORDS IN THE QUOTE

Use this to write all the words you don’t know but want to remember!

SEND A POSTCARD

SEND TO A FRIEND OR NEIGHBOUR

USE EMAIL, SNAIL MAIL, OR HAND-DELIVER IT!

DOWNLOAD IT HERE

Historical episodes

This lesson is about the period of Bahá’u’lláh’s life spent in ‘Akká and its vicinity after being released from imprisonment in the barracks.

You know that Bahá’u’lláh’s suffering in the fortress-town of ‘Akká was so immense that He designated it the “Most Great Prison”.

Confined to the army barracks by order of the Sulṭán, He and the small band of exiles that accompanied Him were subjected to the severest hardship. The loss of His beloved son Mírzá Mihdí, the Purest Branch, was a source of unspeakable sorrow. But four months later, He and His companions were asked to leave the army barracks to make way for troops. They were moved from house to house, staying only a few months in each and kept watch over by guards.

Bahá’u’lláh and His family finally settled in what is now known as the House of ‘Abbúd.

They remained there for several years, and it was in that house that He revealed His Most Holy Book, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, which you will learn more about in a later class period.

Gradually the restrictions on them were relaxed, as the inhabitants of the city began to recognize their innocence and to admire and revere Bahá’u’lláh. An increasing number of pilgrims from Persia were able to attain His presence during this period, and thus the wish of the Purest Branch that the gates of the city would be opened wide to his Father’s followers was fulfilled.

Although Bahá’u’lláh and the believers enjoyed much freedom in ‘Akká, He remained confined within the city walls, for the order of the Sulṭán was still in force. But this situation was not to last. People of influence and authority eventually grew friendly towards the Faith and came to respect Bahá’u’lláh.

There was even a governor of ‘Akká who seemed to have caught a glimpse of His station. He was so deeply moved by Bahá’u’lláh’s majesty that he begged Him to be given the privilege of serving Him in some way. Bahá’u’lláh refused, not wanting anything for Himself, but instead suggested that he restore a disused water canal for the city.

The water in ‘Akká was terribly foul, and the canal, once fixed, allowed the people of the city to have fresh water.

One day, Bahá’u’lláh mentioned that He had not seen greenery for nine years. The country, He commented, was the world of the soul and the city the world of the body. When ‘Abdu’l- Bahá heard these words, He realized that the time had come for His Father to go to the countryside and enjoy the beauty of nature.

There lived a prominent man in ‘Akká in those days who owned a lovely place in the country called Mazra‘ih. Unfortunately the man was not friendly to the Faith. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá went to his home and asked to rent Mazra‘ih from him. Surprisingly, the owner agreed. ‘Abdu’l- Bahá acquired the place at a low rent, repaired it, and beautified the garden.

He then went to the presence of Bahá’u’lláh and informed Him that Mazra‘ih was ready for Him and that there was a carriage waiting for Him outside. But Bahá’u’lláh refused to go, saying that He was still a prisoner. There was a highly respected religious leader in ‘Akká who loved Bahá’u’lláh and was greatly favored by Him. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explained the situation to the man and asked him to go to the presence of Bahá’u’lláh, fall on his knees, take hold of Bahá’u’lláh’s hands and not let go until He promised to leave the city.

The man did exactly as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá had asked him to do. But Bahá’u’lláh refused again, repeating that He was a prisoner. “God forbid! Who has the power to make You a prisoner?” insisted the man.

“You have kept Yourself in prison. It was Your Own Will to be imprisoned . . .”

He begged Bahá’u’lláh to leave the walls of the prison-city and go to Mazra‘ih. “It is beautiful and verdant,” he told Him. “The trees are lovely, and the oranges like balls of fire!” For a whole hour the man pleaded until finally his patience and persistence were rewarded, and Bahá’u’lláh agreed to move to Mazra‘ih.

The next day, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá brought the carriage and drove Bahá’u’lláh to His new residence. While everyone knew that Bahá’u’lláh was still a prisoner by the order of the Sulṭán, no one dared raise any objections. He was, in reality, as loved and respected as a king.

Two years after Bahá’u’lláh went to live in Mazra‘ih, a beautiful mansion not too far distant fell vacant. It had been built as a country home for a wealthy man and his family. The mansion was on a property called Bahjí, which means “delight”.

When an epidemic broke out in the area, killing many, people panicked and abandoned their homes. ‘Abdu’l- Bahá was thus able to rent Bahjí for His Father, and in the tranquility of its surroundings, Bahá’u’lláh would pass the remaining thirteen years of His life on this earth.

He was now held in esteem and veneration by people of all backgrounds, and the prestige of the community of His followers was well established. Leaders and local officials would often request the honor of attaining His presence.

And although His Faith had not yet spread to the Western world, there were some who were aware of the Prisoner of ‘Akká and the great influence He had on all those with whom He came into contact. One of these was Edward Granville Browne, a well-known British scholar, whom you will learn about in another class.

During this period of His life, Bahá’u’lláh visited the nearby town of Haifa three times. The third visit was the longest. He remained there for three months. It was while in Haifa, over the course of the visit, that news reached Bahá’u’lláh of the martyrdom of seven believers in the city of Yazd in Persia. All seven had been put to death in a single day, one after another, in the most cruel and barbarous ways, in front of the jeering and enthusiastic crowds.

Then the governor of the city called a holiday; shops were closed and the city lit into the night for the festivities. You see, Náṣiri’d-Dín Sháh, the king of Persia, never gave up his efforts to destroy the Faith in the land of its birth. Whenever it suited his own despotic purpose, his government and the religious leaders would tell lies and falsehoods about the Faith, so that people would feel hatred towards the followers of Bahá’u’lláh and would attack and harm them.

Many were called to the field of martyrdom. So deep was Bahá’u’lláh’s sorrow at learning the circumstances of the deaths of the seven believers in Yazd that, for nine days, no divine verses flowed from His pen, and no one was admitted into His presence. On the ninth day, He summoned the believers and foretold of the king’s doom.

Before long, Bahá’u’lláh said, Persia would be released from the king’s tyrannical reign. And, indeed, some years later, the night before the celebration of the anniversary of his rise to the throne, he was shot and killed by one of his own people, and his sons soon lost the throne and their family name faded into history.

What you should also know is that it was during that same visit to Haifa, while standing on the slopes of Mount Carmel, that Bahá’u’lláh pointed out to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the spot where the Shrine of the Báb was to be built. Later, of course, in the vicinity of the Holy Shrine of the Báb, the Seat of the Universal House of Justice was established. Today the twin cities of Haifa and ‘Akká have become the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá’í Faith, which has spread to countries throughout the globe.

Bahá’u’lláh raised the banner of universal peace and revealed the Word of God to humanity. Although the powers of the earth combined their forces against Him, He was victorious over them as God had promised Him when under chains in the Síyáh-Chál. During His own lifetime, His Message revived the hearts of thousands of people, and today His Cause continues its onward march.

The forces of the entire world are not capable of preventing it from achieving its ultimate goal, which is to unify humankind in one universal Cause and in one common Faith.

From the lessons in earlier grades, we already have a profound connection to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and this historical episode gives us an indication of how devoted He was to His beloved Father. You may wish to reflect for a moment on the station of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as the perfect Exemplar of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings. What insights does it reveal into the greatness of the Cause? What other spiritual insights do the historical episode offer, and how will you ensure the children glean such insights as you narrate the events to them?

For any of the figures we heard about, use the biography page to write down the information you would like to remember

Bahá’u’lláh spent twenty-four years in ‘Akká and its vicinity, from 1868 to 1892.
After nine years of confinement in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh consented to leave its gates.
Bahá’u’lláh spent the last thirteen years of His life on this earth in Bahjí.
In one of His visits to Haifa, Bahá’u’lláh pointed out to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the spot on which the Shrine of the Báb was to be built.
The twin cities of Haifa and ‘Akká are the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá’í Faith.

You are a fellow prisoner in Most Great Prison and you have come to love and respect Baha’ullah. You just heard that the new water canal will be fixed and water will start to flow again into the city.

Act out this scene, how you are feeling before the news, and after the news.

You and a group of your friends want to do something to help improve the living conditions of everyone in this prison.

In your groups discuss what you may be able to do. Share your idea(s) with your class.

Can you think of how you can make your neighborhoods a better place to live?

BASED ON: BAHA’U’LLAH MISSED SEEING GREENERY.

1. DESIGN A GARDEN FOR SOMEONE WHO ALSO MISSES GREEN STUFF

THIS WEBSITE HAS SOME FREE PRINTABLES TO HELP WITH THE PLANNING

CLICK HERE

2. Plant bulbs and watch them grow or give them to a friend. Did you know that pilgrims took bulbs on the trip to Akka?

Among the villagers who had travelled on that pilgrimage were two who bore the same name, Muhammad. As there were no family surnames to distinguish them one from the other, the friends called them Muhammad the first and Muhammad the second. Together they suggested to their fellow Bahá’ís that nothing could be more befitting than flowers for such a Beloved. And what flower better than the fragrant narcissus, in Persia a symbol of purity and love, a symbol too of the coming of the spring and the joyful passing of life out from the darkness and cold of winter!
https://bahai-library.com/faizi_flowers_akka

3. Make Seed Paper

4. MAKE SOME SEED MATS TO GIVE TO SOMEONE TO GROW

CHECK OUT HOW HERE AND HERE

5. MAKE GRASS SEED HEADS

CHANGING ENEMIES INTO FRIENDS

Walk Through Paper

In Burlington we just did a lot of seed bombs at the Ayyam-i-Ha party so for the lesson, I focused on an activity. (walking through paper)

Baha’u’llah spent so many years as a prisoner, it is what the world saw, but we know that at any time, He could have been free.

One account explains:

Soon the believers from Sayessan became familiar with the prevailing bitter conditions of confinement within the fortress of ‘Akká. Their hearts brimmed with sorrow for the Holy Ones, for they were surprised that such inadequate food was given the exiles, with no fresh vegetables. The bad-tasting water, the poor diet, the prevalence of epidemics of every kind, the barren city with scarcely a blade of grass inside its forbidding double walls, all evoked sadness and a deep rage. Worst of all, the Blessed Beauty with His great love of the open spaces, of the mountains and the gardens, of flowers and trees and all the beauty of the natural world had not been able to walk abroad for about nine long years. Therefore, one day when in His presence the pilgrims opened their hearts and entreated Him:

“Come to our village,” they proposed. “Here in ‘Akká it is warm and damp, and there are no trees.”

“We cannot,” replied the Beloved.

“We promise that the weather will be more agreeable, and we will do everything we can to make you more comfortable.”

“We cannot. We are imprisoned here.”

“Imprisoned?” they replied, with tears in their eyes. “Imprisoned! Who could ever do that to you? You are the King of this world.”

But the Blessed Beauty could not be released from bondage even by these boldest and most resolute of His followers, for God’s destiny had ordained His lifetime stay in the Holy Land, that place of fulfillment of prophecies for all mankind.

Print (or draw) an image of a prison on one side and on the other a beautiful garden and a view.

HERE IS MY VERSION

Remind the class that Baha’u’llah willingly spent many years as a prisoner, and just like this demonstration or walking through paper, Baha’u’llah could have at any time NOT a prisoner.

Have them try to walk through the paper.

Here is the video (below) on how to cut the paper so that we can easily walk through it.

Sometimes when things look impossible, it is not!

DRAW THE GARDENS IN HAIFA

There are so many images that this lesson offers as possible ideas for drawings.

One, for example, is the Mansion of Bahjí.

Another example is a picture of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice as a symbol of the triumph of Bahá’u’lláh’s Cause over the forces that rose up against Him.

BRILLIANT STAR

CHANGE OF HEART

DIVINE POETRY

WHAT A CHANGE

Suffer not yourselves to be shut out as by a veil from God after He hath revealed Himself.
Selections from the Writings of the Báb

DOWNLOAD THE MEMORIZATION AID

Tags Akka, Baha'i, Baha'i children class material, children class, Grade 4, planting bulbs, ruhi, Ruhi bk 3 children's class, Ruhi book 3, Ruhi Children Class, seed bombs, walking through paper

Baha'i Children class Free Ruhi Book 3

BAHÁ’U’LLÁH WAS AT ALL TIMES AND UNDER ALL CONDITIONS VICTORIOUS, ACHIEVING GODS HOLY PURPOSE GRADE 4 LESSON 11 RUHI BOOK 3

Introducing The Principal Theme

Let us review the following ideas:

We have already learned that Bahá’u’lláh’s life on this earth was filled with suffering. What were some of the afflictions and ordeals that He endured?

In His homeland, Persia, He was imprisoned, put in chains, and stripped of His worldly possessions.
He was then exiled four times. To where was He banished the last time, and what were the conditions like there?

How did the kings and rulers respond to His summons?”

You will remember that, when imprisoned and in chains in the Síyáh-Chál, Bahá’u’lláh heard these words on every side:

‘Verily, We shall render Thee victorious by Thyself and by Thy Pen.’

God promised Bahá’u’lláh that He would be made victorious.

MEMORIZATION AID FOR PRAYERS

Download the memorization aid for all prayers here

Though the forces of the nations be arrayed against Him, though the kings of the earth be leagued to undermine His Cause, the power of His might shall stand unshaken.
Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh

MEANING OF SOME OF THE WORDS IN THE QUOTE

Use this to write all the words you don’t know but want to remember!

SEND A POSTCARD

SEND TO A FRIEND OR NEIGHBOUR, USE EMAIL, SNAIL MAIL, OR HAND-DELIVER IT!

DOWNLOAD IT HERE

Historical episodes

This lesson is about the period of Bahá’u’lláh’s life spent in ‘Akká and its vicinity after being released from imprisonment in the barracks.

You know that Bahá’u’lláh’s suffering in the fortress-town of ‘Akká was so immense that He designated it the “Most Great Prison”.

Bahá’u’lláh and His family finally settled in what is now known as the House of ‘Abbúd.

They remained there for several years, and it was in that house that He revealed His Most Holy Book, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, which you will learn more about in a later class period.

The water in ‘Akká was terribly foul, and the canal, once fixed, allowed the people of the city to have fresh water.

“You have kept Yourself in prison. It was Your Own Will to be imprisoned . . .”

The forces of the entire world are not capable of preventing it from achieving its ultimate goal, which is to unify humankind in one universal Cause and in one common Faith.

For any of the figures we heard about, use the biography page to write down the information you would like to remember

CHANGING ENEMIES INTO FRIENDS

Bahá’u’lláh spent twenty-four years in ‘Akká and its vicinity, from 1868 to 1892.
After nine years of confinement in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh consented to leave its gates.
Bahá’u’lláh spent the last thirteen years of His life on this earth in Bahjí.
In one of His visits to Haifa, Bahá’u’lláh pointed out to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá the spot on which the Shrine of the Báb was to be built.
The twin cities of Haifa and ‘Akká are the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá’í Faith.

Act out this scene, how you are feeling before the news, and after the news.

You and a group of your friends want to do something to help improve the living conditions of everyone in this prison.

In your groups discuss what you may be able to do. Share your idea(s) with your class.

Can you think of how you can make your neighborhoods a better place to live?

BAHA’U’LLAH MISSED SEEING GREENERY.

DESIGN A GARDEN FOR SOMEONE WHO ALSO MISSES GREEN STUFF

THIS WEBSITE HAS SOME FREE PRINTABLES TO HELP IN PLANNING

CLICK HERE

MAKE SOME SEED MATS TO GIVE TO SOMEONE TO GROW

CHECK OUT HOW HERE AND HERE

MAKE GRASS SEED HEADS HERE

DRAW THE GARDENS IN HAIFA

There are so many images that this lesson offers as possible ideas for drawings.

One, for example, is the Mansion of Bahjí.

Another example, a picture of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice as a symbol of the triumph of Bahá’u’lláh’s Cause over the forces that rose up against Him.

BRILLIANT STAR

CHANGE OF HEART

DIVINE POETRY

WHAT A CHANGE

DAYSPRING MAGAZINE

WATER

G4-L11-Review-G2-quote-Download

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THE QUALITIES OF CONSULTATION G2 L21

Post author By Carolyn
Post date October 21, 2022
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LESSON 21: THE QUALITIES OF CONSULTATION

When people come together to consult, they share their ideas with the purity of heart and radiant spirits. They all know that, in order to discover the right way forward, they must each contribute their thoughts and understanding. They speak courteously to one another and use kind and gentle words. More importantly, they know that they must listen carefully to one another and think about what each person is saying.It is in listening and thinking, not just speaking, that ideas come together; new and wonderful ideas are born.

For lessons 8 and 9 we will continue to memorize the prayer below

O my God! O my God! Thou seest these children who are the twigs of the tree of life, the birds of the meads of salvation, the pearls of the ocean of Thy grace, the roses of the garden of Thy guidance.
O God, our Lord! We sing Thy praise, bear witness to Thy sanctity and implore fervently the heaven of Thy mercy to make us lights of guidance, stars shining above the horizons of eternal glory amongst mankind, and to teach us a knowledge which proceedeth from Thee.
Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá!

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You may wish to draw on the following ideas in presenting the quotation the children are expected to learn today:

When people come together to consult, they share their ideas with purity of heart and radiant spirits. They all know that, in order to discover the right way forward, they must each contribute their thoughts and understanding. They speak courteously to one another and use kind and gentle words. More important, they know that they must listen carefully to one another and think about what each person is saying. It is in listening and thinking, not just speaking, that ideas come together; new and wonderful ideas are born. Think of making a soup. Many different ingredients are put together in a pot, like carrots and beans, salt and water, and as they cook over the fire, all the separate things melt together into one whole and become a delicious meal for everyone to enjoy. In consultation, as all the participants share their thoughts lovingly, listen patiently and think carefully, with their hearts turned to God and confident in His blessings, the most beautiful ideas emerge. Of course, in the way ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke to others, we see the perfect Example of how people should consult together. He was detached, patient and humble. He always
encouraged others to talk and listened with calm attentiveness. He never argued or insisted on an idea. One friend who lived at the time of the Master wrote that He spoke “as if offering a gift to a king”. Imagine you were giving a gift to a king. With kindness and gentleness, you would present your gift. When we share our ideas with one another, we do the same, wherever we are, whatever we are doing—in our classes here together, with our family and friends, at home and school. To help us remember some of the beautiful qualities we try to show when we speak with another one, let us memorize the
following quotation:

They must then proceed with the utmost devotion, courtesy, dignity, care and moderation to express their views
‘Abdu’l-Bahá

MEANING OF WORDS

Proceed

1. Paulo saw that there was a large tree blocking the road ahead. He could not move forward because of the tree. He could not proceed.
2. After children finish their classes for Grade 1, they move on to those for Grade 2. After Grade 1, children proceed to Grade 2.

Devotion

1. When Soraya prays, she shows her love for God and her wish to follow His teachings. When she prays, Soraya shows her devotion to God.
2. Mark gets up early every morning and works hard all day. Mark shows great devotion to his work.

Dignity

1. When Lillian recites prayers, she sits up straight and uses a calm, clear voice, knowing
that the Word of God is precious. When Lillian says prayers, she shows dignity.
2. Amos was playing a game with other children, and one of them knocked him over by
mistake. Amos did not get upset and told his friend not to worry. Amos responded with dignity.

Moderation

1. The human body must have the right amount of nourishment. If we eat too much or too
little, our bodies will not be healthy. We must eat with moderation.
2. Bhojraj likes to ride his bike very fast down the hill. His mother told him to slow down or
he might fall and hurt himself. Bhojraj’s mother wants him to use moderation when
riding his bike.

MEMORIZATION AID FOR QUOTE

PICTURES TO REMEMBER THE QUOTE HERE

Now explain to the children that you are going to tell them a story that will help them understand the importance of exercising moderation in one’s speech.

During His visit to the West, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and a group of friends met with a man who was writing an article about the Bahá’í Faith. The man had many long and complicated questions, mainly about the history of the Faith. Throughout the interview, the Master sat quietly, listening with patient attention to the man’s inquiries. Now, his questions were
quite lengthy indeed, and the man seemed to talk on and on. He did not seem to realize the importance of moderation. Only every so often did he pause long enough for others to say a few words, sometimes no more than a yes or no.

Most of the friends in the room grew impatient—but not ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. He sat perfectly relaxed, His eyes full of love and understanding. If the man hesitated for a moment, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá spoke briefly in reply to his question and then waited courteously for him to continue.
At last the man finished speaking, and there was a long silence. Then ‘Abdu’l-Bahá addressed the man with great dignity and care. His melodious voice filled the air. In only a few short minutes, the man was transformed. His heart had been touched by the Master’s gentle and loving words. Now he could see the spirit of the Faith. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá rose, warmly embraced the man, and walked with him to the door. At the doorway He paused. A large bunch of roses brought by one of the friends had caught His eye. So large was the bunch and so long the stems that they had to be placed in a stand for umbrellas. No vase was big enough to hold them. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gathered the flowers in His arms and presented them to His guest. The man’s head could barely be seen peeking out above the mountain of flowers, but the joy radiating from his face could not be missed. Sometimes a few words said with thoughtful care are all that is needed.

Draw any part of the story

as a comic

How do you feel?

DRAMA / GAMES

After carrying out some warm-up exercises, similar to those in previous lessons, the children can undertake the following activity, which is intended to help them think about the qualities mentioned in the quotation they memorized earlier.
First ask the children to imagine they are offering a gift to a king or queen. How do they hold the gift? How do they approach the king or queen? What tone of voice do they take? What words do they choose? Then divide the children into pairs, and have one child in each pair pretend to be the king or queen and the other the gift-bearer. They can then switch roles. Afterwards, gather the children together and ask them some questions:

How did they show courtesy?

How did they demonstrate care?

What did it mean for them to conduct themselves with dignity?

Help them think through how their words and actions became a reflection of these qualities.
Next ask the pairs to improvise a few short scenarios, in which they will demonstrate the
same qualities discussed above. You should think of some situations suited to the capacity of the students in your class. For instance, one child could pretend to be an older brother or sister helping a younger sibling in his or her efforts to learn a short quotation by heart.

In another scenario, two children could be trying to decide what game to play—one wanting to play a particular game and the other wanting to play something else. With your help, the pairs can embellish the scenarios with the relevant details before acting them out.

Remind them, as they do so, how they spoke and acted when offering the gift to the king or queen.

Content coming soon

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LISTENING: HAVE YOU EVER MADE A “TELEPHONE” OUT OF TIN CANS AND A PIECE OF TWINE?

Well, you really need to know how to listen and take turns talking for the telephone to work.

Materials:

Two empty cans (like one’s canned pears or beans come in)
Twine, about 3 to 4 meters. Longer is even more fun

Instructions

Make a hole in the bottom of each can

Pass the twine from the bottom to the inside of the can and tie in a knot. ( the knot is inside the can) do the same for the other can.

now stretch the twine out by holding on to and moving the cans apart. Hold the can to your ear to listen, or to your mouth to speak.

Here is a website where they made the telephones with fruit cups

Make some talking lips and start consulting!

Based on the story, make a rose, then combine everyone’s roses and give as a gift to someone.

Make a prayer book with all 7 prayers from grade 2

Today was a celebration of all the things we learned over the last 21 lessons of Grade 2 – wow! Over this past year, we have worked our way through 7 different themes: PRAYER, OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S LAWS, SEEKING KNOWLEDGE, LIVING IN HARMONY, BEING A GOOD FRIEND, SERVICE AND CONSULTATION.

All of them represent patterns of conduct, that show the inner qualities of the virtues we studied in Grade 1. It’s been quite a journey.

To remember the 7 prayers the children have memorized as part of these lessons, You can compile them, if you have not already done so, into a special prayer book.

It is suggested that you review with the children the quotation they memorized earlier today, before asking them to recite the two below they learned in Grade 1 related to sincerity and detachment:

We should at all times manifest our truthfulness and sincerity . . .
‘Abdu’l-Bahá,

Know that thy true adornment consisteth in the love of God and in thy detachment from all save Him . . .
BThe Summons of the Lord of Hosts

BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE

Two Ears, One Mouth

Mild as Milk

What Do You Say?

Clash at the Monster Bash

Mine rich in gems feast pages

Volume 1 and Volume 2

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Baha'i Children class Free Ruhi Book 3

THE BENEFITS OF CONSULTATION G2 L20

Post author By Carolyn
Post date October 19, 2022
No Comments on THE BENEFITS OF CONSULTATION G2 L20

LESSON 20: THE BENEFITS OF CONSULTATION

True consultation leads to greater understanding and is a source of good and well-being.

iI is important to have frank and loving consultation on all matters, in the context of fostering unity in the Bahá’í community. Bahá’í consultation can be understood as the collective search for truth. Participants in consultation see reality from different viewpoints and, as these are expressed and discussed with the purity of motive and radiant spirits, clarity emerges. In this way, we are able to gain insight and understanding and find solutions to problems that we might not otherwise discover. Consultation provides the opportunity for us to approach situations and challenges in new ways and opens up
new possibilities for fruitful action. In this respect, whether concerned with reaching a specific decision, solving a problem, or simply analyzing an issue, consultation is one of the most powerful instruments for building unity, both of thought and of action.

For lessons 8 and 9 we will continue to memorize the prayer below

O my God! O my God! Thou seest these children who are the twigs of the tree of life, the birds of the meads of salvation, the pearls of the ocean of Thy grace, the roses of the garden of Thy guidance.
O God, our Lord! We sing Thy praise, bear witness to Thy sanctity and implore fervently the heaven of Thy mercy to make us lights of guidance, stars shining above the horizons of eternal glory amongst mankind, and to teach us a knowledge which proceedeth from Thee.
Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá!
‘Abdu’l-Bahá

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The ideas below will assist you in explaining to the children the quotation they are expected to learn today:

We know that all of creation- the entire universe and all that is in it-is held together by the force of love. Everything is connected into a beautiful whole, and humanity is like one family. Unity and harmony are part of creation. And when we come together to consult and share ideas, we are able to understand the world around us better and better. We see its unity and harmony, and we become more and more united in our thoughts and understanding. Sometimes we may need to talk for a long while to see a united way forward; other times we see the path more quickly. And with our thoughts and views united, we are able to make better and better plans and to carry them out more and more effectively. We all understand what we need to do. That is how consultation enables great things to be achieved.

In the same way that the strength of several people, ‘Abdu’l-Baha tells us, is greater than the strength of one person, it is better to have the views and ideas of many people than just one. Through the coming together of views, solutions are revealed; truth can be seen. For example, ‘Abdu’l-Baha explains, if the people of a village consult about their affairs, the right solutions will surely be made clear to them. To help us remember that true consultation is the source of good and well-being, let us memorize the following quotation:

Say: no man can attain his true station except through his justice. No power can exist except through unity. No welfare and no well-being can be attained except through consultation
Bahá’u’lláh

MEANING OF WORDS

Station

In some places, the king is considered the foremost person in the land. The king holds the highest station in the land.

To tell lies or speak badly of others is not noble conduct. It is beneath the high station that God has given us.

Power

Lucien’s flashlight cannot give light without a battery. The flashlight draws its power from the battery.

The cart that Delara’s family uses to take grain to the market is very heavy and is pulled by two large horses. One horse alone does not have enough power to pull the cart.

Welfare

A mother lion cares for her cubs. She shelters them, protects them, and teaches them to find food. She sees to their welfare until they are grown.

During the storm, the first thing Miad did was to make sure that all of the children were in a safe place. The welfare of the children was Miad’s first concern.

MEMORIZATION AID FOR QUOTE

PICTURES TO REMEMBER THE QUOTE HERE

A story about the benefits of consulting

Not long ago, in a country where many people farmed the land, heavy rains caused flooding across an entire region. The rivers overflowed their banks and the flood waters destroyed houses, bridges, schools, roads, and fields, sweeping away the crops that had been planted. When the floods were over, most people were left with nothing. They had no homes, and there was little food.
Now, the Bahá’ís who lived in other parts of the country, knowing that the people of the region were suffering, came together to consult to find a way to assist. They realized, of course, that the people needed food. But, as the Bahá’í friends discussed the matter, it became clear that it would not be enough to simply send food. It would be important for the people to be able to grow crops again. How could they help this to happen?
If they could only get seeds, the people of the region could farm and grow food for themselves as they had done before the flood. Everyone could see that this would be a good way for them to help. So what did they do? They decided to use money contributed by their community to buy many tons of corn seeds. Trucks were piled high with sacks of seeds and transported to the areas that had been worst affected by the floods. The people expressed joy and gratitude, singing and playing drums. With these seeds, they could start farming again, and in spite of the suffering caused by the floods, everyone felt hopeful, strong, and happy.

DOWNLOAD THE PDF OF THE STORY HERE

Draw any part of the story

as a comic

How do you feel?

DRAMA / GAMES

Begin this period by having the children do select warm-up exercises in their imaginary squares. You can then help them carry out a large-group improvisation, which will serve to strengthen their understanding of the nature of true consultation. First, ask each of the children to create a character by thinking of someone who might live in a village.

You can help them by asking each one, “Who are you? How old are you? What are you wearing? What are you doing?” Once they have all decided on a character, the story begins. It takes place in a village, and this is what happens:

SCENE 1

The story opens with a scene from an ordinary day in the life of the village. The children pretend to carry out activities related to their characters. Everyone in the village is well fed and happy. They work hard and enjoy life.

Allow the children a few minutes to improvise the scene and then call out “Freeze”. You can then introduce scene two.

SCENE 2

A fierce hurricane hits the village. Everyone runs for shelter. The children can pretend they are trying to save their possessions and help one another.

Again, allow the children enough time to elaborate on the scene, then call out “Freeze” and introduce scene three.

SCENE 3

The hurricane has passed and the villagers emerge from their shelters. No one has been hurt but most of the village has been destroyed. The villagers try to salvage what is left of their belongings. Their efforts are in vain; almost everything has been lost. They are upset but do not bemoan their situation. They come together to consult about what to do next.

Encourage the children to remember their characters and to make suggestions about how to rebuild the village. Give them time to come up with different ideas. At the end of the consultation, they set about working to make the village even better than before.

After the children have improvised the scene, call out “Freeze” and present the final scene.

SCENE 4

The village has been rebuilt, thanks to the hard work of all the inhabitants. And, to everyone’s delight, it is even better than they could have imagined. The villagers gather together and celebrate.

CONTENT COMING SOON

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BASED ON THE STORY:

We can also send seeds to people: try making some seed paper.

This website has good instructions

here is a video showing how to make seed paper

Based on the quote where we know that the strength of many is better than the strength of one:

Get popsicle sticks (large ones are great).
Write the name of family members, or community members or friends or any combination of these
Decorate the sticks as you like
Tie with a ribbon to symbolize we are held together with love

Based on Story: express your joy

In the story, the community expressed their joy by playing the drums. If you also like to express yourself with music, why not make your own instruments or even just drums?

See this website for easy-to-make instruments

comic book template

Review the quotation from today’s lesson, and then remind the children of the qualities of trustworthiness and radiance and the quotations they memorized in Grade 1:

O Friend! In the garden of thy heart plant naught but the rose of love . . .
Baha’u’llah

Blessed is he who preferreth his brother before himself
Bahá’u’lláh

BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE

Nur’s Nook: Powerful Puppets Express yourself with puppets

Maya’s Mysteries: Gift of Listening Quiz yourself on listening skills

Picture of Unity — Consultation tips with missing words

Zeke & Rhombus: Talking Peace — Consultation tips in Zilizag code

Family Consultation — Practice consulting with your family.

POWERPOINT LESSON PLAN