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BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HAS COME TO UNITE THE HUMAN FAMILY

Grade 4 Set 4 Lesson 14

Welcome Grade 4 Rughi Book 3

Introducing The Principal Theme

Although we already have some understanding of what it means that Bahá’u’lláh has come to unite the human family, this lesson should help us deepen our awareness of His purpose for humankind. Let us begin by reviewing what we have learned in the preceding lesson.

We know that God created us out of His infinite love, and all the love we have in our hearts for our families and friends and for humanity is a sign of this limitless love. For forty years Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God, which, like the life-giving warmth of the sun, enables us to grow and develop.

The Word of God has the power to transform us.

The theme of this lesson:

Just as the Word of God can transform each of us, it also has the power to make this world a new world, one in which human beings can live together in unity and harmony. All the people of the world desire to live in peace, but they do not seem to be able to settle their disagreements. The result is a world filled with suffering. Bahá’u’lláh is the Divine Physician. He has told humanity that the remedy for the ills which afflict it is to recognize that we are all the children of one God and belong to one single family.

Without unity, it is not possible to solve the problems that face humankind. Imagine two people who have bad feelings towards one another. If they do not become friends and learn to love each other, how are they going to work out their differences? They may decide not to fight because they do not want to get hurt. But is this what peace means?

In the quotation that you will memorize today, Bahá’u’lláh tells us that the time has come for people to resolve their differences, to live in peace, and to work for the happiness of everyone. For centuries the peoples of the world have waited for such a Day. Now Bahá’u’lláh has shown the way that will lead to the unification of the human race.

 Bahá’u’lláh wishes us to show love and goodwill towards all of humanity—every race, every nationality, and every religion. So, when we meet people of different races, nationalities, and religions, we should think of them, not as strangers, but as brothers and sisters. We should remember that God loves all of us equally, cares for us, and wishes us to grow together in harmony.

Prayer Grade 4 Ruhi Book 3
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.”
Quote Grade 4 Ruhi book 3

It is incumbent upon all the peoples of the world to reconcile their differences, and, with perfect unity and peace, abide beneath the shadow of the Tree of His care and loving-kindness.

Gleanings from the Writings 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!

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Song Grade 4 Ruhi Book 3

Historical Episodes

This historical episode describes Edward Granville Browne’s visit to Bahjí and the fate of the kings and rulers of the time who ignored Bahá’u’lláh’s call to put aside their differences. The episode might well be divided into a few stories, narrated over two or more sessions.

In listening to the account of the historical episode, you will recognize a pattern with which you may already be familiar from the lessons in Grade 3, for example, in the stories of Abraham and Moses, that the Will of God will always prevail. 

You know that Bahá’u’lláh raised the banner of universal peace and revealed the Word of God to humanity for some forty years. We have seen how His Message revived the hearts of thousands of people in the East. By the end of His earthly life, despite the efforts of the most powerful kings of the region, Bahá’u’lláh was held in esteem and veneration by people of all backgrounds. The prestige of the community of His followers was well established in the Holy Land, and the number of believers continued to multiply in Persia. Communities had begun to emerge as far east as India and Burma, and the Faith had been carried all the way to China.

As for the Western world, you know that Bahá’u’lláh proclaimed His Message to its kings and rulers. But there were others who, during His lifetime, became 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, who was mentioned in an earlier class. He was a well-known British scholar. In 1890, he visited Bahjí and was granted four interviews with Bahá’u’lláh. Professor Browne has left us a description of his historic first meeting. Here is what he said.

Professor Browne tells us that, when he reached the Holy Land, he spent the first night in ‘Akká. He was taken to Bahjí the next day, where he passed the evening. In the morning, one of Bahá’u’lláh’s younger sons entered the room where Professor Browne was sitting. He asked the Professor to accompany him and led him to the entrance of a room, in front of which was hanging a large curtain. Professor Browne was not told what to expect

However, he removed his shoes as was the custom at the time. Then Bahá’u’lláh’s son pointed to the curtain, encouraging the Professor to enter.

Professor Browne now found himself in a large room. Immediately opposite the entrance, he saw two or three empty chairs. But, along the wall on the other side, was a long couch. Suddenly he became aware that he was not alone. His heart throbbed with wonder and awe. In the corner on the couch sat the most majestic Personage. He was wearing a felt headdress called a “táj”, round the base of which was wound a small white turban. Professor Browne tells us that he could never forget the face he saw, but he found it impossible to describe it in words. Power and authority radiated from this face, and the eyes, he said, seemed to read his very soul. He did not need to ask in Whose presence he stood. The Professor knew in an instant that he had attained the presence of Bahá’u’lláh, and he bowed before Him as before a king or an emperor.

Professor Browne recorded some of the words spoken to him by Bahá’u’lláh during his interviews. There is one passage, in particular, that is now well known among Bahá’ís everywhere:

“A mild dignified voice bade me be seated, and then continued:—‘Praise be to God that thou hast attained! . . . Thou hast come to see a prisoner and an exile.       We

desire but the good of the world and the happiness of the nations; yet they deem us a stirrer up of strife and sedition worthy of bondage and banishment       That all

nations should become one in faith and all men as brothers; that the bonds of affection and unity between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of religion should cease and differences of race be annulled—what harm is there in this?       Yet so it shall be; these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away,

and the “Most Great Peace” shall come.       Do not you in Europe need this also?

Is not this that which Christ foretold? . . . Yet do we see your kings and rulers lavishing their treasures more freely on means for the destruction of the human race than on that which would conduce to the happiness of mankind.       These strifes and

this bloodshed and discord must cease, and all men be as one kindred and one family        Let not a man glory in this, that he loves his country; let him rather glory

in this, that he loves his kind.     

The words recorded by Professor Browne soon began to reach the ears of many in the West. There was one particularly important meeting where the words of Bahá’u’lláh were read: the World’s Parliament of Religions. It was held in the city of Chicago, in the United States, a few years after Professor Browne visited the Holy Land. The meeting was attended by a few thousand people, and some two hundred speakers from around the world were invited to give presentations. Most of the speakers were Christian ministers, but several other religions were also represented. A paper written by a Christian missionary in Syria was read there, and it made mention of Bahá’u’lláh. This passage was quoted for all to hear:

“That all nations should become one in faith and all men as brothers; that bonds of affection and unity between the sons of men should be strengthened; that diversity of religion should cease and differences of race be annulled— what harm is there in this?  Yet so it shall be; these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the  ‘Most Great Peace’ shall come.”

Regrettably, the kings and rulers at the time of Bahá’u’lláh, many of whom had received Tablets from Him, did not follow His guidance to set aside their differences. Each thought only of his own power, and they persisted in their divisive and destructive ways. Eventually, almost all of them lost their power and glory, while wars and revolutions multiplied.

The fate of the Persian king, Náṣiri’d-Dín Sháh, was already mentioned in an earlier class. It was he, of course, who had ordered the execution of the Báb, who had imprisoned Bahá’u’lláh in the Síyáh-Chál, and who had banished Him from His homeland and urged that He be sent farther and farther away, eventually to ‘Akká. It was he who, together with the religious leaders, had tried to wipe out the Faith in Persia. And it was he who, having received from the hand of the heroic Badí‘ a Tablet addressed to him by Bahá’u’lláh, chose to ignore it and to arrest instead its bearer, who was tortured mercilessly and finally slain. What became of this despotic king? We know that the night before the celebration of the anniversary of his rise to the throne, he was shot by one of his own people, and his sons soon lost the throne and their family name faded into history.

The Sulṭán of the Ottoman Empire, the other ruler who, in collaboration with Náṣiri’d- Dín Sháh, rose to oppose Bahá’u’lláh, sending Him to Constantinople, Adrianople and then to ‘Akká, had a similar end. He lost his throne in a palace revolution and four days later was killed. The throne was given to his nephew, but he could not hold the Ottoman Empire together. Once the mightiest power in the region, the empire fell apart and soon disappeared, and new countries and nations arose in its place.

Meanwhile, in the West, many of the kings, too, lost their thrones in the upheavals and conflicts that persisted. One of these was Napoleon III of France. He was considered the most powerful ruler of the time in Europe. A proud and ambitious man, Napoleon sent troops to seize other lands in order to increase the size of his dominion. Thousands upon

thousands of young men died on the battlefield because of his ambition and hunger for greatness. When he received the Tablet from Bahá’u’lláh, he showed little respect and sent an irreverent reply. In a second Tablet addressed to him, Bahá’u’lláh predicted his downfall. Not long after Napoleon was defeated in battle and lost his throne. He had no other choice but to go into exile.

Of course, the other kings in the region were equally proud and ambitious. William I of Prussia greatly benefited from the fall of Napoleon. He consolidated his power and grew stronger, creating the German Empire. Bahá’u’lláh warned, however, that he not make the same mistake as Napoleon, to think that he was more powerful than God’s Manifestation and, because of his own folly and greed, bring suffering to his people. Needless to say, in the end, two attempts were made on his life by his own subjects, and though he survived them, the German Empire did not. It was taken apart, following a most terrible war, the First World War.

During that war, the Austrian-Hungarian Empire and the Russian Empire, whose rulers had also failed to respond to Bahá’u’lláh, came to an end. In Russia, tired of conflicts and bloodshed, the people rose up in revolution against the royal family that had ruled the masses like slaves for some three hundred years. They were swept forever from power.

Sadly, the First World War took the lives of millions of people. It left great destruction, but there was also the hope that the rulers and leaders of the world would come together in peace once and for all. Yet it was not to be so. Soon the Second World War broke out. Nations took sides against nations, and again millions were killed. After several bitter years, the war ended, but distrust between nations did not. And so governments used their resources and the benefits of modern science to build up stores of weapons. To this day, governments and rulers cannot seem to put aside their disagreements and to recognize that the earth is, in truth, one country and we are all its citizens. Conflicts continue in different parts of the world, and the ills of humanity are multiplying everywhere. Even within nations, groups of people are pitted one against another.

It would be truly sad if this was the whole story. But we know that, however dark the world looks, humanity’s future is bright. Though the leaders of the world are still struggling to establish true peace, the spirit of loving solidarity that Bahá’u’lláh breathed into the world has continued to spread. His call for humanity to unite as one family is penetrating the hearts and minds of people. Some are fortunate enough to recognize Him as God’s Manifestation for this new Age and to work directly for His Cause. But even those who are not yet aware of His teachings are affected by the forces released by His Revelation. More and more people are beginning to appreciate one another and to see that we are children of one God, that we are all drops of the same ocean. Their hearts are warmed by the Sun of Truth and their minds are illuminated by its rays. Such is the power of the Word of God to make the world anew. No matter how long it takes for the leaders to come together, humanity will be united as God has so willed.

“Yet so it shall be,” Bahá’u’lláh declares, “these fruitless strifes, these ruinous wars shall pass away, and the ‘Most Great Peace’ shall come.”

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

Teachers Pay Teachers Free Biography page

DOWNLOAD MY STORY REPORT HERE

facts about Bahá'u'lláh Grade 4
  • 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.
      games/ drama grade 4 ruhi book 3
      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.

      crafts grade 4 ruhi book 3
      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

      resource grade 4 ruhi book 3

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

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      BAHÁ’U’LLÁH HAS THE POWER TO TRANSFORM SOULS

      Ruhi Bk Grade 4 Lesson 13

      Welcome Grade 4 Rughi Book 3

      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!

      Prayer Grade 4 Ruhi Book 3
      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

      Song Grade 4 Ruhi Book 3

      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

      Teachers Pay Teachers Free Biography page

      DOWNLOAD MY STORY REPORT HERE

      facts about Bahá'u'lláh Grade 4
      1. Bahá’u’lláh was born some two hundred years ago, on 12 November 1817, in Ṭihrán, the capital of Persia.
      2. Bahá’u’lláh’s given name was Mírzá Ḥusayn-‘Alí.The name of Bahá’u’lláh’s father was Mírzá 
      3. Buzurg, and His mother was named Khadíjih Khánum.
      4. Bahá’u’lláh’s ancestors came from the district of Núr in the province of Mázindarán.
      5.  From an early age, Bahá’u’lláh showed signs of greatness.
      6.  Bahá’u’lláh did not attend school and only received some instruction at home.
      7.  As a young man, Bahá’u’lláh chose to devote His energies to the care of the poor and the defense of the weak.
      8.  At the age of eighteen, Bahá’u’lláh married Ásíyih Khánum.
      9. Bahá’u’lláh was twenty-seven years old when, on 23 May 1844, the Báb declared His Mission.
      10. Mullá Ḥusayn was the bearer of the Message of the Báb sent to Bahá’u’lláh in Ṭihrán.
      11. Upon receiving the scroll of the Báb’s Writings, Bahá’u’lláh testified to the truth of His Revelation.
      12. 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.
      13. The independence of the Faith of the Báb from Islám was declared at the Conference of Badasht.
      14. The Conference of Badasht took place in the summer of 1848, while the Báb Himself was imprisoned in a remote part of Persia.
      15. Bahá’u’lláh steered the course of events at the Conference of Badasht.
      16. 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”.
      17. It was after the Conference of Badasht that Bahá’u’lláh came to be known by His title.
      18. The term “síyáh-chál” means the “black pit”
      19. The Síyáh-Chál was an underground prison in Ṭihrán. 
      20. Bahá’u’lláh was taken to the Síyáh-Chál in the summer of 1852.
      21. Bahá’u’lláh was kept in the Síyáh-Chál for four months.
      22. While imprisoned in the Síyáh-Chál, Bahá’u’lláh received the first stirrings of God’s Revelation in His soul
      23. Bahá’u’lláh was imprisoned in the Síyáh-Chál for four months.
      24.  Bahá’u’lláh was exiled from Persia in 1853.
      25.  Bahá’u’lláh’s very difficult journey from Persia to Baghdád began on 12 January 1853 and took about three months.
      26.  Bahá’u’lláh left Baghdád for Kurdistán in April 1854.
      27.  Bahá’u’lláh spent a total of two years in Sulaymáníyyih.
      28. Bahá’u’lláh returned to Baghdád from the region of Kurdistán in April 1856.
      29.  During the two years of Bahá’u’lláh’s absence from Baghdád, the fortunes of the Bábís had gone from bad to worse.
      30.  During Bahá’u’lláh’s stay in Baghdád, the Bábí community was revived through His love and wisdom and the power of His words.
      31. Bahá’u’lláh was exiled to Constantinople, after staying in Baghdád for ten years.
      32. The Book of Certitude, or Kitáb-i-Íqán, was revealed in Baghdád.
      33.  The Book of Certitude was revealed in 1862 in answer to some questions posed to Bahá’u’lláh by the Báb’s uncle. 
      34. The Book of Certitude was revealed in two days and two nights.
      35. The Hidden Words of Bahá’u’lláh were revealed in Baghdád.
      36. Before departing for Constantinople, Bahá’u’lláh spent twelve days in the Garden of Riḍván.
      37. The Garden of Riḍván was located outside the city of Baghdád.
      38. In the Garden of Riḍván, Bahá’u’lláh declared His Mission.
      39. The twelve-day period in April is celebrated by Bahá’ís every year as the Festival of Riḍván.
      40. The Festival of Riḍván is the holiest and most significant Bahá’í festival.
      41. Bahá’u’lláh and His family arrived in Constantinople on 16 August 1863.
      42. Bahá’u’lláh remained in Constantinople for about four months.
      43. From Constantinople, Bahá’u’lláh was exiled to Adrianople.
      44. Bahá’u’lláh and His family arrived in Adrianople on 12 December 1863.
      45. Bahá’u’lláh stayed in Adrianople for just over four and a half years.
      46. Bahá’u’lláh and His family were exiled from Adrianople to ‘Akká in 1868.
      47. In ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh and His companions were imprisoned in an army barracks.
      48. The phrase the “Most Great Prison” refers to ‘Akká.
      49. Mírzá Mihdí was ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s younger brother.
      50. Mírzá Mihdí was known as the Purest Branch.
      51. The Purest Branch was twenty-two years old when he died.
      52. Bahá’u’lláh began the universal proclamation of His Mission in Constantinople.
      53. During His exiles to Constantinople and Adrianople and later in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh addressed Tablets to the kings and rulers of the world.
      54. Bahá’u’lláh called on the kings and rulers of the world to uphold justice. 
      55. The title Badí‘ means “wonderful”.
      56. Badí‘ delivered Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet to the king of Persia in the summer of 1869.
      57. Badí‘ was seventeen years old when he delivered Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet to the king of Persia.
      58. Badí‘ was called the “Pride of Martyrs” by Bahá’u’lláh.
      59. Bahá’u’lláh spent twenty-four years in ‘Akká and its vicinity, from 1868 to 1892.
      60. After nine years of confinement in ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh consented to leave its gates.
      61. Bahá’u’lláh spent the last thirteen years of His life on this earth in Bahjí.
      62. 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.
      63. The twin cities of Haifa and ‘Akká are the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá’í Faith.
      64. Bahá’u’lláh revealed the Word of God for nearly forty years.
      65. Bahá’u’lláh has left humanity volumes and volumes of Divine guidance that will enable it to build a glorious new world.
      66. The Kitáb-i-Aqdas was revealed around 1873 in the House of ‘Abbúd in ‘Akká.
      67. 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.
      68. Bahá’u’lláh has referred to the Kitáb-i-Aqdas as the “source of true felicity”, the “Straight Path”, and the “quickener of mankind”.
      69. The Kitáb-i-Aqdas is also known as the “Most Holy Book”.
      games/ drama grade 4 ruhi book 3

      Act Out A Transformation

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

      Can you think of any other transformations?

      crafts grade 4 ruhi book 3

      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

      Changing Enemies to Friends 

      Download the memorization PDF (as seen above)

      HERE

      resource grade 4 ruhi book 3

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