# Pilgrim's Notes

*Exported from [Holy-Writings.com](https://www.holy-writings.com/) on 2026-06-18 — 1 clipping.*

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> Source: Bahá'í Library Online (bahai-library.com), curated by Jonah Winters. Used by permission of the curator. Original citation: Ben Levy, Pilgrim's Notes, bahai-library.com.
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> 
> Pilgrim's Notes
> 
> Ben Levy
> 
> 1953-03-09
> 
> [page 1]
> 
> The following notes as set forth are in not [sic] authentic, and are merely
> impressions and comments which I thought were stated by our beloved
> Guardian, and should be considered as such.
> 
> Guardian's comments at dinner table, Western Pilgrim House, 7:00 - 8:30
> P.M. March 9, 1953
> 
> 1. Bonn is a very important center. The Germans are trying to build an
> Assembly there by April (Note: an Assembly was established Ridvan
> 1953)
> 
> 2. I mentioned the adornment of the Hazira (German) with the rug from
> Bahá'u'lláh's tomb, and the Guardian said "Yes, this is a very precious gift
> and is not only a blessing but an adornment as well."
> 
> 3. Guardian asked "How is the Hazira (German) is it fully completed?" I
> said it's beautiful, and of course the outside is yet to be stuccoed. He said
> that was fine. I said the inside is ultra-modern and He said - "the German
> believers are very fond of it, aren't they?" I replied "yes, they are,
> Guardian."
> 
> 4. The Guardian said "What do the Germans think of a new Temple being
> built in Frankfurt?" . it doesn't have to be built near the Hazira, but in the
> city of Frankfurt. It can be built even on its outskirts, just so it's the city,
> and within close range of the Administrative Institutions. It must fulfill
> two conditions (1) must be nine-sided (2) must be circular. first the site
> must be selected; second the land must be purchased and a design made. It
> doesn't have to be designed by a Bahá'í but it is preferable. The more
> original th better. It doesn't have to be large - like the Temple in
> Wilmette, but it must be original and carefully designed. He hopes it can
> be built before the completion of the 10 year Crusade. The NSA must
> consider it very carefully. Their reward for the completion of the Temple
> construction will be a portrait of the Bab, a priceless treasure.
> 
> 5. I said the Bahais all over Germany are excitedly talking about going to
> Stockholm. They haven't much money, but they will get there somehow.
> Probably even hitchhike. He said "Yes, the Germans have their bicycles,
> don't they? They can ride to the North Sea and then go by ship or train." We
> all laughed heartily. The Guardian said "Their (Germany's) role is very
> great - at the Stockholm Conference, during the Ten Year Crusade, and
> especially after it. It is most important they attend."
> 
> 6. "It is sad that Dr. Grossman couldn't go to Kampala" (he planned to but
> became ill), the Guardian said, and asked if I had seen him before I left. I
> said no, but talked with him over the phone and understood he was much
> better now. The Guardian said of Kampala - "the Germans were not
> represented and they were missed - and needed there.
> 
> It's a pity the German Bahá'ís couldn't be there. Their presence at all these
> conferences are very important. It wasn't so bad they weren't at Kampala,
> because their field is in the North, and in Stockholm it is most important
> they attend. Their destiny is to struggle with the Russians.
> 
> 7. America, Persia and Germany will collaborate in the field of Russia;
> Germany from the West, Persia from the South, and America from all
> directions - the Guardian said. Then he spoke of Alaska and went on to say
> - Alaska has a very important position, spiritually as well as
> Administratively. It is most important that Alaska get to Russia. Alaska
> is a base of operations - that is why we are developing it there; Alaska
> from the East, Germany from the West, Persia from the South - all
> converging on Russia.
> 
> [page 2]
> 
> 8. Our Guardian then said "You know Alaska is the back-door to Russia." I
> said in exclamatory tones"My gosh, Guardian, You know I just received a
> letter from Frances Wells in Fairbanks several weeks ago, and she
> remarked how strange it was that I was (with the Germans) at Russia's
> front-door and they in Alaska at her back-door." The Guardian just
> smiled.
> 
> 9. The Guardian said "Frau Schwarz - she is a pillar of the Cause in
> Germany. She is staunch - yes a pillar - a very devoted believer."
> 
> 10. And our Guardian asked about Edith Horn - how she was; I said - fine -
> and she is very much loved in Germany. Then the Guardian said; "You know,
> Edith was here in 1938 (I believe the Guardian said that year) and I sent
> her to Frankfurt from Stuttgart, at a time when there was no Cause there
> - and she persevered - she held the fort - and look now, Frankfurt has its
> Hazira and is the administrative Center. The German Bahá'í should honor
> Edith Horn."
> 
> 11. Herr benke attained the station of Martyr in Bulgaria - said the
> Guardian. The Guardian then asked about Frau Benke and I said I never met
> her, but understood that she was living with Dr. & Mrs. Grossman at
> Neckargemund. I asked Ruhiyyih Khanum if that was correct, and she said,
> yes, it was.
> 
> 12. Then the Guardian said "Germany and Austria - their mission is to
> work together," He said "I have urged Germany and Austria to attend the
> Stockholm Conference. And also the British Isles, Ireland, Scotland and
> France. They should send one representative (and mentioned several other
> countries). The conferences are paving the way for the launching of the
> Ten-Year Crusade - a preliminary step."
> 
> 13... as many visitors to Stockholm as possible, in passing through
> Norway, should try to visit the grave of Johanna Schubart. The Guardian
> said "She was not only a pioneer but the Mother Bahá'í of Norway - a
> mother pioneer. Dagmar Dole was a pioneer - but Johanna Schubert was a
> mother pioneer, her station is much higher."
> 
> 14. I said that Dr. Muhlschlegel and Dr. Schmidt said it was all right to
> mention the death of Frau Herrigal, and that Herma Muhlschlegel said for
> the last ten years she was old and really harmless. The Guardian
> commented "She was misled by her husband, and Herr Herrigal was misled
> by Mrs. White." Ruhiyyih Khanum said that the husband of Mrs. White wrote
> a few years ago and said he did not believe all his wife said, and that she
> was not sane, and the Guardian replied, "Yes, she was unbalanced."
> 
> 15. .The Portrait (of the Bab) must be put away (speaking of its being
> viewed at Wilmette) before prayers and meditations begin. Otherwise in
> due time it might develop into a Christian service. Once prayers begin -
> there must be no pictures exposed. Bahá'u'lláh has forbidden this - no
> ornaments or pictures are to be hung.
> 
> 16. I said to the Guardian that all the friends, and particularly mentioned
> the Youth, were all excited about the possibility of pioneering in Russia
> and the Eastern countries and that several have expressed their desire to
> go one day, and replied that it is too early to think of Russia - but rather
> direct their eyes upon and think of Germany. Germany must make itself a
> base upon which to launch the Crusade to the East - expand existing
> centers - strengthen and consolidate present communities.
> 
> 17. Germany has a great destiny in the Baltic States, the Balkans and
> Scandinavia. They will proceed to the Ukraine and as far as the heart of
> Russia. The Master said that Germany has a great destiny, and revealed it
> at a time when little was known of the Cause in the North. Now look at it
> today. The light of the Faith will radiate to the North, East and South.
> 
> [page 3]
> 
> 18. Marion Jack is a great soul - a pride of the pioneers in the East and the
> West; an example to all pioneers; she has persevered long and hard. The
> Master called her "General Jack." She has the spirit of Martha Root -
> combination of heroism and saintliness; some are either heroic or saintly:
> Persians aren't all saints. They are pious but not all saintly. Martha Root
> combined three qualities - martyr, heroine, and saint - a unique
> distinction. Saintliness is very rare - it comes from purity of motive.
> 
> 19. In speaking of the Africans - the Guardians said they are pure,
> unsophisticated, unspoiled.
> 
> 20. The Holy Land, Persia, and America are in very great danger. Persia is
> the cradle of the Faith - it is in constant danger. America is the
> stronghold of the Administrative Order in the West. The cradle and the
> stronghold are both in danger. The Holy Land is the spiritual center - it too
> is in great danger. But in spite of that, we launch a Ten Year Crusade. Look
> at the Second Seven-Year Plan and Europe. It was conceived alike. There
> were very few centers before it began. Europe was groaning and
> impoverished.
> 
> 21. He hopes there will be sixty NSAS after the Ten-Year Crusade. They are
> like pillars of the Universal House of Justice. First the pillars - then the
> Universal House of Justice as the dome (i.e. Monument of the Greatest Holy
> Leaf). Amelia Bowman asked if the Universal House of Justice would be
> established by 1963 - he said, not necessarily. The Greatest Holy Leaf is
> the symbol of the Administrative Order. The main thing is - teach the
> Cause - extend its range - consolidate its foundation. First the local, then
> the National, later the International.
> 
> 22. Goal countries - won't have outside pioneering in the Ten-Year Plan. -
> only within their own countries, First, will establish Regional National
> Assemblies.
> 
> 23. Alaska will have its own NSA - in the Ten-Year Plan. Will be a pillar of
> the Universal House of Justice in the North. Will have its own National
> Endowments and Hazira. Alaska is the back-door of Russia. I asked where
> the Hazira would be located and the Guardian replied that it would be
> decided when the NSA is formed. First two things; One multiply LSAs.
> Second establish NSA.
> 
> 24. Fairbanks is near the Arctic Circle. There is a spiritual competition
> between Canada and Alaska, who will go beyond the Arctic Circle first.
> They are aiming beyond the Arctic Circle.
> 
> 25. The Guardian said "You know, Alaska is going to have its its own NSA
> during the Ten Year Crusade" ."there is good news from Alaska - they have
> property now - their own endowment. This is very fine - near anchorage, I
> believe." I said yes, I know - and Ruhiyyih Khanum asked where - and I told
> them of the Huffmans and Gregorys donating the land - 10 acres each, I
> believe.
> 
> Guardian's comments Western Pilgrim House, March 11, 1953
> 
> 1. I asked about the peacock and if it was true it was a sign of
> immortality. Guardian said yes - and was recognized most doubtedly as
> the most beautiful bird in the world. Bahá'u'lláh referred to it as the bird
> of paradise in many Tablets.
> 
> 2. Spoke about the eagle, and how majestic they were. The eagle is the
> symbol of ascendancy - hence, ascendancy of the Cause - that is why many
> eagles adorn the surroundings of the Shrines, at Bahji, at the Shrine of the
> Bab. It represents the ascendancy of the Cause in the world - not
> imperialism - but power and ascent.
> 
> [page 4]
> 
> 3. It (the Year nine) commemorates the Birth of Bahá'u'lláh's Revelation.
> The Centenary of the Bab nine years ago commemorated the Birth of the
> Babi Revelation which announced the Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh. Bahá'u'lláh
> kept it a secret from mankind for ten years.
> 
> 4. I mentioned to the Guardian how beautiful the gardens at Bahji were,
> and that the grass lawn surrounding the shrine itself was like a velvet
> carpet, with lights at evening casting a shimmering profusion of soft
> shadows and light around the landscape. He smiled and was pleased. He
> asked "How is the grass in Germany? Is it as beautiful as the grass here?"
> I smiled and said, I knew Germany was famous for its landscaping and
> gardening and flowers, but didn't think it was as beautiful.
> 
> 5. Mentioned to our Guardian how different it was for me, an American,
> coming to Germany; that it was a great change; that Germans think so
> differently. Our Guardian said in reply, that the Germans are very
> painstaking - painstaking and methodical - deep. And that they are loyal;
> are anything but superficial. They don't just read - they study. They pay
> great attention to detail. Germans have a great capacity - great endurance
> - great vitality.
> 
> 6. German, Persia, and American - through Alaska, borders Russia. That is
> why they have a great mission there.
> 
> 7. The Year Nine is the Birth of Bahá'í'llah's Revelation. Bahá'u'lláh kept it
> a secret for ten years. First intimation - He disclosed it to His
> companions who were exiled with Him. In Adrianople He proclaimed His
> mission to the Rulers of the World. First direct intimation; then
> declaration to companions; then proclamation to all mankind. Proclamation
> began in Adrianople - ended in Akka.
> 
> 8. Reply of Queen Victoria "If this is of God .etc" - is hearsay - we are not
> sure she said this. No Kings or Rulers replied to His Tablets. Some
> completely disregarded His Summons. Napoleon was reported to have said
> - "If this man is God, I'm two Gods" - one year later he was defeated in the
> Franco-Prussian war his only son was killed in the Zulu war. The Pope lost
> his temporal power and retreated to the Vatican where he imprisoned
> himself.
> 
> 9. Amelia Bowman spoke of "Lamentations of Berlin." Our Guardian pointed
> out that during the first World War this prophecy was fulfilled - the
> people lamented their loss of the war - their poverty and abasement.
> 
> 10. Monarchies are being overthrown; accelerated since the time of the
> Master's death as he predicted. France and Germany became a Republic -
> also China became a Republic; in Portugal the monarch became a Republic.
> The Czar fell - later Germany and Austria. The decline of monarchy
> increased after the Master's death. Then Turkey fell - then the Qajar
> dynasty - which is still tottering in Persia. A series of monarchies have
> fallen - Bulgaria, Albania, Hungary, Serbia, all became republics (then
> listed more). Later came Italy. Fourteen monarchies have fallen since
> Bahá'u'lláh gave His Message. The process still continues. Kingdoms were
> abased. Some lost their thrones - others were humiliated - other
> humiliated themselves by their own acts (Farouk was mentioned and the
> Guardian agreed that as a recent example).
> 
> 11. There is the decline in the East and West. Princes of India have lost
> their Princedoms. They were protected by England and finally most of
> them were absorbed by the Republic of India. Hundreds of princes have lost
> their position and provinces to the Republic of India. Amelia Bowman
> asked about Pakistan and the Guardian explained that though Moslem - this
> is no doubt temporary and will be absorbed later by the Republic of India.
> The Bahá'ís have a very great struggle there in the East. The process of
> princedoms being lost will continue.
> 
> [page 5]
> 
> 12. Just as the Jews have crucified Christ - they suffered 2000 years of
> persecution - so also will the Moslems suffer a similar fate. The Jews
> rejected Christ - the Moslems Bahá'u'lláh and His Cause.
> 
> 13. I mentioned that I always thought of the German people having great
> minds and that I've seen much narrow-mindedness in the people. The Guardian said most Catholics are in southern Germany -
> Lutherns in the north. He said that the opposition from the Moslem is now
> spreading to the Christian Church; it began in America with the
> Presbyterians and Anglican Church in England. There are many
> Presbyterian and Anglican Missionaries in Persia. The Anglican Church has
> attacked the Faith in Persia; - gradually it will spread to the Orthodox
> Russian Church - they are very strong. And - eventually it will go to the
> Catholic Church. Its culmination will end with the Pope. His opposition
> will lead to his downfall. By opposing the Faith he will plant the seeds to
> his own downfall.
> 
> 14. In the Fiji Islands the Moslems have officially denounced the Bahá'ís
> as Infidels. They are very influential there. They are dominant there.
> 
> 15. Godlessness and unbelief - decline of religion. People are becoming
> more nationalists and less religious. The Jews in Israel are nationalists.
> Religious leaders are interfering with politics. Catholics in America -
> Moslems in Persia - also in India. Bahá'u'lláh urges His believers to keep
> away from politics. Religious leaders are becoming subservient to the
> State, instead of the State becoming subservient to religion.
> 
> 16. Uphold non-interference in politics. We are above parties - we are
> God's Party. We promote God's policy - not God's politics. I lay down the
> principle and the NSA'S apply it. The NSA has the responsibility to
> determine if believers can vote for a given party without being identified
> with it. Bahá'ís must be completely free in voting - detached from any
> party.
> 
> 17. There is the material world and the spiritual world. We must not
> confuse the two. In the next world we do not lose our identity - our
> individuality - we retain it. We become more perceptive - but there is
> nothing physical about it. It is spiritual. In the material world there is
> much yet to be revealed, - there may be life on other planets. Still, the
> material world must not be identified with the spiritual world. Bahá'u'lláh
> tells us that we have a great effect on the souls who have passed on - that
> is why we pray for them - to help their progress in the next world. there
> is always progress for the soul - there is always progression in the next
> world also. It is both through the Mercy of God and the acts of the souls
> also. The soul can, through its own self progress, by its deeds. We know
> that Bahá'u'lláh says that the soul in the next world can reflect on life in
> this world and whether it lived a good life or not. Earthly life is but one
> stage in the journey of the soul. On earth the value is that the soul has the
> opportunity to develop itself. Now we must look at to-day, and the Ten-
> Year Crusade. Each person must do his part, and God will take care of the
> rest.
> 
> 18. The unity of mankind is now approaching - the stage of maturity.
> Maturity means responsibility - and all men are responsible to God for
> their acts on earth. Great responsibility - both as an individual and as
> leaders of men. Suffering for mankind is inevitable. Man suffers - he is
> cleansed. It is a cleansing force.
> 
> 19. The coming ten years is a very crucial period for the Cause. It precedes
> the establishment of the Cause. Humanity as a whole must establish the
> unity of mankind. The more it delays - the greater the suffering. Unity is
> the keynote - the great need in the world of today - not union but unity -
> union is quite different.
> 
> [page 6]
> 
> We require organic unity. First - the Lesser Peace - next the Most Great
> Peace - a new civilization will be born. The birth of this world
> civilization is dependent wholly on the Bahá'í principles based on
> Bahá'u'lláh's writings. The Laws of Bahá'u'lláh must be applied to
> community life. We must not worry about the future now - everyone must
> play his part in the coming Ten-Year Crusade - insure its success.
> 
> 20. I asked the Guardian about his oft repeated mentioning in varied
> letters about the Hosts of the Abha Kingdom, and the Maid of Heaven, as
> mentioned by Bahá'u'lláh, and he explained that these are completely
> allegorical and should not be taken literally. there is nothing physical
> about it. It means the Power of God working through Bahá'u'lláh. This
> Power from Bahá'u'lláh working through pure hearts. They become channels
> of His Grace.
> 
> 21. I pointed out to our beloved Guardian how as a Bahá'í we are human and
> full of error, and whatever we do, we know many times - even though our
> best - that it many times is wrong too. He said we should do our best and
> even if we are wrong - if we are sincere and pure, God will decide for us.
> We must look at the tasks at hand and accomplish these.
> 
> 22. Amelia Bowman mentioned, in reply to our Guardian's question about
> how Norway feels about monarchies, that "They love their King" and the
> Guardian said, "yes, they love their King" - "Scandinavia is like that.
> Bahais must be careful not to say anything against their King in those
> countries. another day (Mar. 9) The Guardian said - the Norwegians were
> like the English - very slow to catch on - very slow - but once they caught
> on, they were very staunch.
> 
> Guardian's comments on March 2, 1953
> 
> 1. Mashriqu'l-Adhkar on Mount Carmel will not be built above the Shrine -
> but to the side - preferably west of the Shrine - and should have a
> commanding view of the land and sea.
> 
> 2. I mentioned to our Guardian about the codification of the Aqdas, which
> he wrote of in a recent cable and asked what he meant. The Guardian
> replied that excerpts of the Aqdas are to be published in different
> languages - to present to officials of the land. This will help to establish
> the independent status of the Faith.
> 
> 3. In regard to translation of Bahá'í writings into various languages, as
> stipulated in the Ten-Year Crusade, the Guardian said - translations can
> vary from the Bahá'í principles to the Dawn-Breakers. It does not
> necessarily mean Bahá'u'lláh and the New Era only. It can be any
> pamphlet.
> 
> 4. When asked when will be the beginning of the Golden Age - Guardian
> said the Golden Age may be in 70 to 100 years. Leroy Ioas commented that
> the establishment of the Universal House of Justice does not mean the
> beginning of the Golden age.
> 
> 5. Speaking of the Greatest Holy Leaf and of the glow of her eyes on the
> large photo at Bahji - Guardian said the Greatest Holy Leaf could be
> described as the fragrance of the robe of Bahá'u'lláh.
> 
> 6. He called Panama the heart of the Americas.
> 
> 7. There will be an Asian Committee appointed - in addition to the
> European, African and Inter-America (to be re-instated) committee.
> 
> 8. "We own the heart of Carmel - we want to have the head too." (toward
> western part of Mt. C. Bay of Haifa leads away from)
> 
> [page 7]
> 
> 9. In buying the land of Mt. Carmel we accepted the provision that we
> cannot sell produce from the land (must give to poor and needy), cannot
> build, sell or rent. Only Bahá'ís pay no taxes on land (for religious
> purposes) in Israel - no other religious communities will accept these
> conditions - not the Muhammadans, the Christians, not even the Jews.
> 
> Guardian's comments on March 13, 1953 at dinner table, Western Pilgrim
> House
> 
> 1. Asked of our impressions of the portraits of the Bab and Bahá'u'lláh (in
> Shrine, Major Archives) and spoke of their preciousness. Said to me "The
> Portrait of the Bab will be shown in Stockholm. You must tell the German
> friends about this - for it will act as a stimulus for them to attend. The
> Portrait of the Bab is to be shown at Wilmette, then Stockholm, and also
> at New Delhi in India.
> 
> 2. Read news article from Ethiopian newspaper about Bahá'ís and recent
> publicity there connected with the visit of Mason Remey, Mildred
> Mottadadek and others from Kampala and the article said all about the
> uniqueness of this Conference and of the basic principles of the Bahá'í
> Faith. The Guardian went on to say how important Ethiopia was, and that
> the American friends should concern themselves with this and other
> territories, not only Liberia. encouraged Ludmila von Sombeck to
> communicate with New York friends and encourage pioneers to this land.
> Pioneers to here must be capable, devoted, and it would be advantageous
> to speak Italian. and - Negro, if possible. Orientals don't impress them
> very much there, but anyone from the West especially Americans. Said it
> would be very meritorious for those pioneers going there.
> 
> 3. .Our Guardian went on to say that "Tibet is the roof of the world" - then
> smiling he said "the nearest place to Abha Kingdom" - we all roared with
> laughter. Our Guardian is very witty, and has a terrific sense of humor. It
> is very difficult for the Cause there. It has a theocratic government - a
> government run by monks. It is a stronghold of religious orthodoxy - a
> stronghold of the Buddhist Faith. It will be difficult to enter there - and
> doubt if any one can just now. It has been overrun by communists, and is
> difficult to cross the border. The Soviets are in control there. But it is a
> very important land.
> 
> 4. Then our beloved Guardian spoke of the Islands of the South Pacific.
> There we must have the greatest concentration of effort. There the
> islands are scattered - numerous - backward - and are virgin territories.
> Look at Europe, look at America - there aren't many places which haven't
> been at some time opened to the Faith or established there, - but in the
> islands of the South Pacific there are hundreds of virgin territories. They
> are inhabited by the Brown Race. They are very important, very promising.
> the Cause has been revealed to the white, the yellow and black - but little
> amongst the brown. look at its significance in the Ten-Year Crusade. The
> New Delhi will find eight NSAs cooperating. This is more than the
> participation of all the other individual conferences. the responsibility is
> very great. They will deal with propagation of Faith to So. East Asia and
> the Islands of the So. Pacific. The Master mentioned this in His tablets of
> the Divine Plan. The area is wide and extensive. It is the heart of the
> Pacific Ocean. It is surrounded by three continents - three continents -
> Asia, So. America, Australia. It has a great future.
> 
> 5. The amount of Bahá'ís in Kenya is becoming so great that I'll have to ask
> them to disperse there - establish new centers. Whenever there is a
> surplus of Bahá'ís - over 15 - I like them to disperse to other surrounding
> areas. I don't like regulations - but I like to say whenever there is a
> surplus - I like to see the Bahá'ís move to new locations.
> 
> [page 8]
> 
> 6. I brought photos taken at Bahji, Mar. 10-11 when we first sat down, to
> the Guardian, and said he should fell free to keep whatever he would like.
> He looked through them and spoke of the work being done at Bahji. To all of
> us and particularly to Ludmila von Sombeck, who was having her last night
> of pilgrimage there - and said "you must take these photos to all the
> friends wherever you go - especially Vienna and show them the progress
> which is going on at the world Center. They are very much isolated, and it
> is important they know of the progress, and be contacted, for they have a
> great task during the Ten-Year Crusade - that of establishing a NSA
> there."
> 
> 7. The Guardian went on to say - regarding teaching - we must not look for
> or expect official and outstanding people to become Bahá'ís - we must
> look for capable people - not necessarily outstanding. Officials and
> important people can be our friends - but they are tied to their politics or
> to other obligations. They cannot separate themselves from their ties -
> they will always remain involved. They can accept the principles of
> Bahá'u'lláh and the Cause but usually not wholly converted to the Cause.
> They come in with reservations. We must not sacrifice the principles of
> the Cause for popularity - never sacrifice our principles to be popular. We
> should proceed wisely - cautious - slowly - We must look for pure souls -
> capable souls not necessarily important people. They are important but we
> must concentrate on pure souls.
> 
> 8. The spirit of Martha Root touched the heart of Queen Marie. We need
> more active supporters of the Faith - not sympathizers - but people who
> support the Institutions of the faith. Martha had that ability to meet
> important people in high places. But now we need active supporters - not
> sympathizers.
> 
> 9. The stronghold of materialism is in America. We must avoid total
> concentration of teaching in the cities. There the people are immersed in
> their own surroundings - are distracted - disinterested in things
> pertaining to the spirit. The more primitive the people are - the nearer
> they are to the spirit - to the Faith. People speak of the so-called
> civilized world. The more primitive the nearer they are - the more
> civilized - the father away.
> 
> 10. The Moslems are exerting a very great effort in America - allying
> themselves with the Christians - they are not sincere - but compromise
> their principles. The building of the Mosque in Washington D.C. is a direct
> result from our building the Temple. Diplomats and Ambassadors from the
> East, from Egypt - went back and told their people - if the few Bahá'ís can
> build such a beautiful Temple - why can't we of the Moslem world do
> better. They will do everything they can to attract people - but they
> compromise their principles. Even to the extent of forming ties with the
> Christians - even with the Catholics, their bitter enemies. To Bahá'ís,
> principles are first, popularity second. The Moslems and Christians are
> forming a religious front against a common foe - Communism. They join in
> an unholy alliance. The Pope is inviting the Egyptians and Moslems to help
> in the fight against the common foe - Communism. All are
> 
> compromising their principles. Their fundamental beliefs are directly
> opposed to one another. The American government is glad to see the
> alliance - anything to consolidate their ranks. They have all been besieged
> by fear - fear has entered then and they don't know where to turn. They
> cannot even think clearly - they are confused, they are afraid. They call it
> the "barbarian from the East" - a "history repeating itself" they are losing
> their balance - fear seizes them. Of course, this does not mean that
> Communism is good. The U.S. is afraid - none more afraid than they, the
> richer the state - the more afraid. The poorer - the less afraid. The old
> order is dying - the New Order is not yet born. The Administrative Order is
> not the World Order - one is the embryo of the other. Now we have the
> embryo. The world must be organized and spiritualized - a spiritualization
> of mankind. Now the world suffers from organization and materialism.
> 
> [page 9]
> 
> 11. In respect to teaching, our Guardian speaks of the difficulty in
> bringing officials into the Cause. They are bound by official bond -
> materialistic bonds. We must look for our souls, we must search for
> them. Bahá'ís must go places where it is easy to find them. (Ruhiyyih
> Khanum injected the thought that the Guardian says we must go from the
> easy to the hard). We find them in their modest homes - villages - small
> towns. We establish the Administration in the cities - concentrate
> teaching outside the cities. Think what would happen if New York, Chicago,
> San Francisco, Los Angeles would do this. Bahá'ís can spend years in the
> cities but many times to no avail; people there are preoccupied. Bahá'ís
> must propagate the Faith in small centers. We want localities in the Faith,
> not cities. We must go with the people - live among them - search for
> them. Bahá'ís must go to the villages - they are important.
> 
> 12. It is a great mistake for pioneers to get into capitals and stay there.
> We must scatter - there we reap a rich harvest. It is highly meritorious -
> very effectual. This does not mean to abandon cities. We must have a firm
> functioning Assembly, but the surplus Bahá'ís must scatter. Of course,
> there are many difficulties involved - many problems to overcome - but it
> means sacrifice. Many have families - homes -ties. I lay down the
> principles - the Bahá'ís must try to apply them. All required of them is to
> make an effort - they must make an effort.
> 
> 13. I spoke to our Guardian of the fact of having Goal cities in Germany -
> and the importance of the Five-Year Plan - but asked about all the other
> places. The Guardian said: We are interested in Goal Centers - not Goal
> Cities. In making plans - NSAs must study the situation - determine
> receptive centers - not choose from a map the important cities. They must
> consider which points are receptive - which is the easiest place to
> establish a center, and then include it in a plan. It doesn't have to be an
> important city. We must study where we have a rich and quick harvest. Our
> main consideration is to propogate the Faith. As soon as a center is
> established - the surplus must disperse. We must husband our resources -
> must be careful how we dispose of them. Places like Germany and the goal
> countries can't do this yet. If they dispersed there would nothing left. But
> a general rule to follow is to have at least 15 believers - then the surplus
> must disappear and establish new centers. If one tenth of the Bahá'ís in
> Teheran alone would disperse - the Bahá'ís would have the Faith all over
> the world. They have learned in Persia the importance of villages. We
> cannot compel Bahá'ís to disperse - there are many hindrances and
> difficulties - but people must make the effort. The pioneering spirit must
> be created in the friends.
> 
> 14. To Ludmila von Sombeck - the Guardian said - when you go to Vienna -
> try to contact Bahá'ís in some way - in Hungary - Czechoslovalia,
> Yugoslavia. Vienna is a very important center. During the coming Ten-Year
> Crusade it has a great task - to establish an NSA of their own. Austria
> must collaborate with the German NSA but must make new centers.
> Otherwise they will be indefinitely attached to the German NSA. They
> must collaborate with the German NSA, but begin extensive teaching - in
> cities like Graz, Linz, Innsbruck. Encourage friends in Austria to attend
> the Conference.
> 
> 15. The Conference in Stockholm has the purpose to stimulate activity in
> Europe. The Bahá'ís must discover ways and means to spread the Faith on
> the Continent of Europe - not the goal countries only - all countries. The
> map (refers to the map the Guardian made to outline full scope of the Ten-
> Year Crusade) is no secret now. Tell the friends if they only want the maps
> alone - to communicate with Geneva. They are getting a supply of them. If
> pamphlets and maps are wanted, they can obtain them from England or
> America. It would be cheaper if they would get them from England. During
> the Ten- Year Crusade, tell the friends the effort must
> 
> [page 10]
> 
> be continuous - not spasmodic. If there is any sceptic you meet (to
> Ludmila) tell him to look at Kampala, and the Conference there- the
> success in Africa.
> 
> 16. The dome has been started and the Guardian goes on to say he hopes for
> the guilded tiles in another month. Tell them (Ludmila) of the Gardens -
> and the progress at the World Center - especially Vienna - for they are
> isolated.
> 
> Guardian's Comments March 15, 1953, at dinner in Western Pilgrim
> House
> 
> 1. Our Guardian said to me that he has read the Tablets I brought from the
> friends in Germany (from the Master) .. Also read the diaries (17 vol.) from
> Mr. Samandari sent from Persia. Yesterday the Guardian said he had read
> for 14 hours straight - the latter over 70 pages long in Persian (in his own
> hand) to be sent by pilgrim to Iran, reviewing and checking it. This letter,
> as he previously said at dinner table the evening before - was the
> Significances of the Year Nine and a review of happenings in the Bahai
> world during the previous two years. He went on to say "whenever I do
> something extraordinary like this letter, all the routine work piles up and
> I must then begin to catch up on this routine material," referring to
> letters, Tablets, Samandari's diaries, and all other data.
> 
> 2. There will be an Israeli Branch of the NSA established during the
> coming Ten-Year Crusade for the NSAs I have designated on the map with a
> star. Germany is one of them. You must tell the German friends that. The
> first step is incorporation - every NSA must incorporate first. Next -
> through a lawyer in the Holy Land - a Branch is established - as a
> Religious society. When the government accepts the incorporation
> documents - I will transfer land to them. At present America and India
> have an Israeli Branch. The Branch is a legal bond to unite the NSAs of the
> world to the World Center - this is unique in religious history. This will
> add to the prestige of the Faith in Israel - and will consolidate the
> International endowments. Then this property has the backing of the
> respective governments. If someone wishes to encroach on our property -
> we refer them to the legal owners - which are the NSA's of the various
> countries who are not here (in the Holy Land). The Branches add to the
> prestige of the Faith - consolidate its ties to the World Center. Later on -
> the historic sites in Persia. Persia will establish branches. Other NSAs
> will own some of the land - NSAs will own land in the cradle of the Faith
> and the Holy Land. First Persia must show its national constitution to the
> Persian Government and become incorporated before Branches can be
> established there.
> 
> 3. All NSAs now have the same constitution - this is unique. Spain and
> Portugal will have the constitution translated. First the national
> Constitutions must be presented to the government - then receive
> recognition. I asked the Guardian how Persia will get recognition and be
> incorporated and he said this will be very difficult - for it must be
> presented to the Persian government and the Shah.
> 
> 4. I mentioned seeing the Bahá'í school of India on his map - for the Ten-
> Year Crusade, and asked if it will be like the Summer Schools. The
> Guardian explained that it is quite different. It is to be opened all year
> round - maybe non-Bahá'ís will be admitted also.
> 
> 5. The nature of the Dependency of the Mashriqu'l-Adhkar in Wilmette
> during the Ten- Year Crusade is not yet decided.
> 
> [page 11]
> 
> 6. In regard to my questions regarding Buddha, the Guardian said His
> Teachings are based upon Divine Revelation - the Master told us so. There
> is nothing in writing - we don't know exactly what He taught. Scholars and
> Priests say He taught immortality. The religion of Zoroaster, the Indians -
> Buddha - are alike in this respect. We do not know exactly what they said.
> The books of laws have been written by the priests. The priests deviated
> from the path. Wrote about Buddha's teachings years after His death - like
> the Catholic Church. Scholars say Buddha taught the middle way of Nirvana
> - of the state of blessedness and peace on earth - that He taught little of
> the after-life. We know this is wrong. All Divine Manifestations taught of
> life after death. He had to have spoken more than just the life on earth.
> 
> 7. Divinity of Bahá'u'lláh is a stumbling block in the West. The best answer
> is as written in the Iqan. Bahá'u'lláh tells what He means by Divinity.
> Bahá'u'lláh is Divine - we believe this - but we must explain what is
> meant by Divinity. The Catholics are correct when they teach the Divinity
> of Christ - but they have the mistake of confusing the God-Head with the
> Prophet. Only God and the Prophet are Divine. When people question when
> Bahá'u'lláh says "I am God" - refer them to Christ's statement "I am (in)
> the Father" - it is the same thing. All Prophets have said the same thing.
> Bahá'u'lláh has said the same thing in the Iqan. Catholics believe that God
> and the Son are the same - this is fundamentally wrong. It is like saying
> the ray is the sun. To say that Bahá'u'lláh is greater than other prophets is
> wrong - they are all Divine - all mirror the Light - but in Bahá'u'lláh - his
> mirror deflects the Light greater - not because He is intrinsically
> superior - rather because the capacity of the people is greater to receive
> the Light.
> 
> 8. The soul has tremendous experience in the other world - we know this
> but we cannot understand how.
> 
> 9. I asked our beloved Guardian if there isn't some ties between the
> germans and the Greeks (Germany has Greece during the Crusade). He said
> the Germans have a greater appreciation for the Greek culture and their
> art. You know, the Germans had their eyes on Greece during the last war
> and had Crete.
> 
> 10. A letter was received from Shanghai - the believers are very active
> there - even under the Communists. The question is whether or not to tell
> the authorities. If they do - they may be expelled - if they do not, they
> risk being imprisoned and sent to Siberia.
> 
> 11. The sub-continent of India is very vast - there is a great deal of work
> to do beyond its frontiers. The India Bahá'ís have had 3 plans - more than
> any other country - America has had only two. Now India is finishing its
> 19-month Plan. They have sent a pioneer to Nepal. In Burma there is great
> progress.
> 
> 12. I asked our Guardian of the nature of the auxiliary boards to be
> appointed during the Ten-Year Crusade. They are designed to help the
> Hands to complete the Plans. There are not many Hands so they need help -
> and the Plans are vast. These auxiliary boards are the first extension of
> the Institution of the Hands of the Cause --are elected by the Hands -
> assists the NSAs to fulfill plans.
> 
> 13. The function of the Hands is to protect and propagate the Cause - its
> two chief functions. Now the NSAs function is also to protect and
> propagate the Faith - later these functions will be fully handled by the
> Institutions of the Hands. Like the NSAs - they will have their own boards
> - committees and sub-committees. They will have Institutions parallel to
> the present NSAs committees, etc. The Institution of the Hands and the
> NSA functions are complimentary - not at odds with one another. The NSAs
> will become more and more legislative - will handle the affairs of the
> community - they will first legislate - then apply laws.
> 
> [page 12]
> 
> 14. I asked the Guardian if the Hands of the Cause were unerring in their
> functions of propagation and protection of the Cause and he replied - they
> receive instructions from the Guardian. The Hands of the Cause and the
> Administrative Order complement one another. Function of the Guardian -
> interpretation; Hands, protect and propagate; Universal house of Justice -
> legislate; National SAs - administrate these laws. Bahá'u'lláh established
> the Institution of the Hands of the Cause; the Master embodied it in His
> Will and Testament. The machinery is established for the establishment
> and propagation of the Faith.
> 
> 15. Revenues for the Guardianship and Hands - and Universal House of
> Justice, has been clearly established in the Aqdas. Huquk - 19% - is for
> the Guardian and Hands of the Cause. Fines and taxes etc. are for the
> Universal House of Justice.
> 
> 16. The Pope in Rome has the same - has an organization for the
> propagation of the Gospel throughout the world. The Cardinals administer
> the affairs of the church throughout the world. Some distinction exists in
> the Bahá'í Faith. The difference is in the Bahá'í Faith the individual
> administers his own affairs - bodies are elected by the believers - which
> has in it a democratic element - whereas in the Church the priests and
> Cardinals administer it. Fundamental difference - ours comes from the
> Source - the Author of the Faith - a split will never be caused. We have
> had terrible crises - great differences of opinion - tests and difficulties
> have been greater - yet they never caused a split, a cleavage. The problems
> are momentary, never lasting.
> 
> 17. Amerila Bowman asked if it wasn't so that if the Prophets like Christ
> and Muhammed had given more explicit instructions - wouldn't the nature
> of the Churches and religious hierarchy be different. The Guardian
> explained - if Christ would have said that only Peter could interpret -
> Paul would never have injected his ideas. In all Dispensations a Center
> was appointed - but vaguely so - and the Center was never given full
> authority.
> 
> 18. There will always be a number - a minority - who will not accept the
> Prophet - who will never submit - but only a few - even in the Golden Age.
> But these few can cause trouble. The overwhelming number will embrace
> the Faith.
> 
> 19. Opposition is a driving force - it is a propelling force - opposition and
> criticism. Crises will move the Cause ahead. The Time will come when
> missionaries will openly attack us. The civil and religious will form a
> common front - we may have to face a common front. It all depends upon
> the progress of the Faith. The progress of the Faith depends on the friends,
> the individual believers. They must hasten the progress of the Faith to get
> opposition so this opposition will lead to crises which in turn will lead to
> triumph. It is like a motor. The motor produces electricity. Progress of the
> Faith causes the spark. The spark accelerates motion - motion created
> another spark - a series of sparks and motions - victories and crises -
> victories and crises.
> 
> The Arab-Israel war seemed to threaten the Faith - but the Arabs - the
> real enemies - were defeated. We were in grave danger - both from
> external and internal from within.
> 
> 20. Look at Germany, the Bahá'ís have had a great victory. There was great
> suffering in Germany and Japan, and now the people are more ready for the
> Faith. During the past - the Party threatened to extinguish the Faith in
> Germany. They read in the Books what Bahá'u'lláh has said about the Jews.
> They sought the Bahá'ís - they wanted to extirpate the Cause. When the
> Germans were approaching Palestine through Egypt - the Bahá'ís were
> already on their blacklist. The Cause of the World Center was in great
> danger. As the Germans approached - the Arabs were already speaking of
> getting revenge - of joining the Germans - and the Covenant Breakers
> were
> 
> [page 13]
> 
> waiting. The Arabs would have joined them. The Germans were coming near
> Palestine - from Egypt in the south - they had Crete - and through Syria
> and Lebanon in the north. Suddenly Rommel was defeated, in the African
> campaign. If they would have come - they would have sent me to a
> concentration camp - and would have seized the Archives and destroyed
> the Shrines. But they were defeated.
> 
> Guardian's comments at dinner, March 16, 1953 at Western Pilgrim
> House
> 
> 1. (regarding pilgrimage) . it is not the extent of your stay here, but the
> spirit you carry away with you.
> 
> 2. Urge the German friends to order the map (of the Crusade) from England.
> They should immediately translate the pamphlet into German. This will
> not be difficult because there is little to translate. Of course, the
> countries on the map need to be translated. It should be widely
> distributed. First they must become familiar with the plan - study
> carefully. Second see what they do to promote it.
> 
> 3. Majid Din is sinking. He is 98 years old - the incited of Muhammad Ali.
> He lives adjacent to the Mansion at Bahji. The Master has referred to him in
> his Will and Testament. He has called him the "manifestation of Satan" he
> was worse than Muhammad Ali - for he incited Muhammad Ali. almost 100
> years old - and God has kept him so he might witness the rise of the Faith.
> He was worse than the Arch-Breaker of the Covenant. He is half-
> paralyzed.
> 
> 4. A grand-daughter of the maternal uncle of the Bab - 90 years of age -
> has asked to come on pilgrimage with her son. The son will go to Africa.
> South Africa will have a descendant of the Bab as a pioneer.
> 
> 5. The Founder of our Faith - besides establishing spiritual principles -
> established first, Institutions - second, Administrative principles. Christ
> did neither. He did establish spiritual principles - but no institutions - no
> Administrative principles. Muhammed went a step further. He established
> spiritual and administrative principles - but no institution. Bahá'u'lláh
> gave us both - plus, established a definite institution. That is why the
> unity of the Faith is assured. There can be no schism.
> 
> Guardian said - comparative religion - Bahá'ís should study in their
> summer schools - to be able to compare the different dispensations of the
> past.
> 
> 6. Question was brought up by Ruhiyyih Khanum . a Bahá'í pioneer who
> defied the Assemblies rulings and freedom of action when they failed to
> recognize him as being the first pioneer and therefore they must listen to
> him. Our Guardian said - pioneers should set the example. They must abide
> by the Assemblies rulings - especially the pioneers, should set the
> example for their spiritual children.
> 
> 7. The Guardian asked me "Are the Germans making any regulations? I
> replied - I don't know for sure, but I've heard they have a tendency to do
> so. The Guardian then said - the Germans are a disciplined people - they
> must guard against making too many regulations. The Administration as
> developed sufficiently for now - we must not try to perfect the
> Administration. It is an instrument for teaching the Cause, propagating
> the Faith, if we only perfect the instrument we forget many times its
> purpose. It becomes the end instead of the means. Too many regulations
> kill the spirit. There should be less administration and more teaching.
> That doesn't mean we disregard the Administration - all must obey. The
> Administrative Order is a channel for teaching. We must use this
> instrument - not perfect it.
> 
> [page 14]
> 
> 8. I asked our Guardian how about Bahá'ís who can justify their making a
> career of the military and he replied - Bahá'ís must try to keep free from
> entanglements in the Army - the Government and the Church. They are not
> completely free to promote the Cause. They should disentangle themselves
> from these positions - because there are always some restraints. They
> should keep themselves free to teach.
> 
> 9. I said to the Guardian - the German friends always have you on their
> lips. They love you very much. He said "Yes, I am fond of the German
> friends - their spirituality - their ability - their thoroughness and
> concentration. They have a great capacity for work - a great future in the
> field of scholarship. They will provide the Bahá'í historians of the future -
> the Bahá'í scholars. also in research work. The Master said whenever I see
> the German friends, I am reminded of the Persians. I have very great hopes
> for the future of the German believers. their suffering during the last war
> has been great - perhaps a blessing in disguise."
> 
> 10. They (Germany) must have their own National Archives.. urge them to
> establish a Nat'l. Archives in one room of the Hazira - as soon as possible.
> Urge the friends to offer their Tablets and relics as soon as possible. They
> must be placed in the name of those who offer them - just as I do here.
> 
> 11. Guardian asked me "Will you stop at Geneva?" I replied "Yes" and he
> said - "You must tell Mrs. Lynch I appreciate very much her services to the
> Faith. She is very loyal - very painstaking - a true pioneer - long before
> the ETC plan began. She is in the same category as Johanna Schubart - she
> worked alone. The Bahá'ís of Switzerland must be very appreciative of her.
> Also Miss Kempton - representative of the ETC - she is very energetic -
> very efficient.
> 
> 12. I told the Guardian I plan to visit the friends of Luxembourg and the
> Guardian commented the friends of Luxembourg are very active, very
> successful. Urge them to be in close contact with the Paris friends - the
> Paris Assembly - especially in matters of publication. Refer to them on
> these matters. There are many French in Luxembourg.
> 
> 13. I mentioned the Regional Conference to be held in Rotterdam in early
> April during the Eater week-end there, and our Guardian said - the
> Regional Conferences are very important. They must be prepared for the
> formation of Regional NSAs - follow the example of the Italo-Swiss -
> First they must multiply their cneters in the Low countries. The Regional
> Conferences pave the way for establishing the foundation of the Faith.
> They are very helpful.
> 
> METADATA
> 
> Views18852 views since posted 1998; last edit 2025-09-30 14:31 UTC;
> 
> previous at archive.org.../levy_pilgrims_1953;
> URLs changed in 2010, see archive.org.../bahai-library.org
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> Typed 1997 by Robert Stauffer.
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> — *Pilgrim's Notes (Used by permission of the curator)*