# Flowers Culled from the Rose Garden of Acca

*Exported from [Holy-Writings.com](https://www.holy-writings.com/) on 2026-06-20 — 1 clipping.*

---

> Source: Bahá'í Library Online (bahai-library.com), curated by Jonah Winters. Used by permission of the curator. Original citation: Ida A. Finch, Flowers Culled from the Rose Garden of Acca, bahai-library.com.
> ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
> 
> Flowers Culled from the Rose Garden of Acca
> 
> Ida A. Finch
> Fanny Alma Knobloch
> Alma S. Knobloch
> 
> 1908-11
> 
> Our First Morning in Acca.
> 
> We met the Ladies of the Holy Household assembled in the Tea Room, and
> with them two widows of martyrs to the Cause of Baha'o'llah. Greetings and
> messages of love from the friends at home were given with joy; then we heard a
> firm, quick step approaching the Tea-Room. No need to tell us who! Instantly
> all arose, and there in the open doorway we first beheld Abdul Baha, smiling a
> Heavenly welcome. Entering, he gave to each of us a hearty grasp of his hand,
> saying in English "Good Morning!" with a motion of his hand inviting all to be
> seated; inquiring as to our health; had we enjoyed restful sleep, expressing
> the hope that our journey may have been made with comfort. Abdul Baha then,
> turning to Miss Alma Knobloch, asked: "How are the German Believers?" She
> replied: "They are united and harmonious and are very firm." Abdul Baha then
> said: "Many great souls will arise in Germany to spread the Teachings to a
> great extent. I have sent Tablets to the Believers and the Assembly, and also
> to you. I have prayed for them. In the time to come you will be very happy to
> think of them. It will give you great joy and pleasure." Turning to Mrs. Ida
> Finch, he asked: "How are the Believers in Seattle?" Mrs. Finch replied:
> "They are very faithful. Some of us are united, but not all." Abdul Baha
> said: "I hope when you return to America you will carry to them the power of
> uniting all." He then inquired of Miss Fanny Knobloch the condition of the
> Washington Believers. "They are well and they love each other very dearly," was
> her reply. After this, messages sent by the various Friends were given, and
> many precious messages for them received in return.
> 
> [PAGE 1]
> 
> Nov. 7th, 1908.
> 
> Abdul Baha's Talk while at Table.
> 
> Noon; Directed to Miss Alma Knobloch.
> 
> A good foundation is laid in Germany. The believers must be firmly founded in
> the principles of morality and honesty.
> 
> First -- Truthfulness; no one should ever tell a lie!
> 
> Second -- Honesty in all their transactions.
> 
> Third -- Forbearance is necessary.
> 
> Fourth -- They must observe the utmost kindness, so that all may consider
> themselves servants of each other, and be truthful and honest to all
> mankind.
> 
> Fifth -- They must not disappoint anyone, but constantly endeavor to become
> more spiritual.
> 
> If they live up to these commandments the confirmation of the Spirit will
> surely reach them. The Spirit will descend and they will surely progress.
> 
> If you make Stuttgart a strong center, it will be of great benefit for other
> cities, for they can refer to it. If a great tree in the forest is ablaze it
> will set others on fire; if you plant a palm its roots spread in every
> direction.
> 
> If you would like to go to other cities it is approved.
> 
> I pray for you all. I ask God's blessings to descend upon you. May each one
> of you be as the light from a lamp to enlighten an assembly.
> 
> Abdul Baha was told of the new Bahai Home, which was being built by Mr. A.
> Eckstein and was requested to reveal a name for it. He asked, "Shall it be in
> German or Persian." The latter was desired. "Anjomani Rahmani" (i. e.),
> Merciful Assembly, was the name given.
> 
> Question by Miss Fanny, "shall Alma return to Stuttgart?" "Why not? Yes, she
> has been confirmed in her work there by the Holy Spirit, why should she go
> elsewhere? When a tree in the forest is ablaze others will be ignited."
> 
> Nov. 7th, (Evening).
> 
> Abdul Baha said: "Originally the Persian, German and English were one
> tongue."
> 
> [PAGE 2]
> 
> Nov. 7th, 1908.
> 
> Copy of Notes taken in Acca.
> 
> Given to us by Mirza Assad Ullah.
> 
> Question asked by an Arabian Judge
> 
> of Abdul Baha.
> 
> "Should we come in touch with those who are naturalists, or those who do not
> believe in God or His Prophets, how can we prove to them their Divinity?"
> 
> Abdul Baha said: First of all, you should not argue with them or oppose them,
> or they will deny even the things which they see with their eyes. For example,
> they will see the Light here, and they will say there is no light. One must
> talk to them very kindly, in order to let them know the desired object. When
> you ask them `Who is the Creator of the world? What is your opinion in the
> matter?" They will answer: "It is quite plain and evident that there are
> various kinds of elements, and by being composed a being is formed." We must
> say, "You are right, it seems to be so, but we have heard something else, some
> philosophers and learned men told us as follows: `When we look carefully at
> objects and things we can comprehend and understand that by the composition of
> some elements something is formed; this is quite evident. But there are three
> kinds of composition. One is accomplished by force; for instance, fire
> attracts water, this is made through force--that is, the elements attract each
> other; when they come together they form an object. This kind of composition
> is called innate or natural attraction, made by force.
> 
> The second kind of composition is said to be done by chance, for instance, it
> rained by chance, the sun cast its rays by chance; therefore, vegetables
> grow.
> 
> The third is a composition made by will, by aim; -- for instance, -- A doctor
> gives a medicine which is composed of various elements, compounded by his will;
> knowing the ingredients of the drugs he compounds them by will.'
> 
> We must look and see very carefully that we understand whether the things or
> objects of the world are formed through the power of attraction made by force;
> if
> 
> [PAGE 3]
> 
> it is so, then there should not be the decomposition, because the elements
> attracted by the other must remain together everlastingly; corruption must not
> take place; some realize that there are both composition and decomposition.
> 
> As to the second, which was by chance, -- this is also not perfect, but
> completely invalid. How can there be movement without a mover?
> 
> As to the third, that all objects in the world are made or formed by will.
> Then, there should be a Creator for everything, for instance, to place the eye
> in its own place, the ear in its proper place, etc. Such a power creates,
> gives life to man, and works through His will. We call this will, GOD! All
> the prophets believed in such a Great Being."
> 
> Nov. 7th, Evening.
> 
> Mirza Assad Ullah.
> 
> Why did you come here, and what are you here for?
> 
> Miss Fanny answered: "For help in spiritual knowledge, so that we may
> be able to impart this to others."
> 
> "Where have you learned, or whence does your source of information come, that
> this is the place to gain that knowledge? Has any one of former generations
> given you these tidings?"
> 
> "Yes the Prophets and all Spiritual teachers have foretold these days."
> 
> "How were these tidings given? In a concealed manner, because the people were
> not able to understand, but now we are informed of these concealed meanings.
> From time immemorial, these tidings have been given, but according to the
> requirements of the time in which they were given.
> 
> In this day there is no greater religion, according to number of followers,
> than the Buddhists. If you ask them they will testify of these tidings. All
> other Holy books contain the same glad tidings, but the nearer the time comes
> to this age the clearer they became, until the Messianic age and in the day of
> the Lord Christ. His disciples asked: `When shall be the end of the days?'
> Jesus answered in the form of allegory; but the disciples
> wanted straightforward facts, and Jesus had talked of these events when there
> was a great concourse of people present. But when they were alone with Jesus
> they asked again: `When shall these things be?' He then referred them to the
> twelfth chapter of Daniel. But they still desired more explicit information.
> He referred to the time when the abomination of desolation shall take place,
> which is the time of the appearance of Mohammed; then to the appearance of the
> Bab, and next to the appearance of Baha'o'llah. *The passing away of the daily
> sacrifice was when the Mohammedan army surrounded the Holy City. They then
> announced that the daily sacrifice should be discontinued. From that time to
> the beginning of this day is 1260 days, according to Hegira, (or years).
> 
> The 1290 days after the rise of Mohammed, dates the day when Baha'o'llah
> announced his mission to the world. It was the memorable time when Baha'o'llah
> gave the people and all the crowned heads, the message that the Promised One
> had come.
> 
> All the days end in this day. In the year 1335 (see Dan.XII. 12), you shall
> see the great unfoldment. In other words, we have nine years (A. D. 1917), to
> witness the outcome of these events. Whatever major events were to take place
> in accordance with prophecy are to come now, and we will witness these great
> events. The climax is in the days of Abdul Baha; the culminating events will
> take place.
> 
> The lion and the lamb will lie down together. All the prophetic statements of
> the coming of the Kingdom will take place in these days.
> 
> This world has an owner, and Abdul Baha owns the world and all that is in it;
> it is His garden; and blessed are they who are in His garden to serve. They
> are in reality the elect, for night and day are they gathering fragrance from
> the spiritual flowers in the garden. They receive orders from the Head
> Gardener. We are thankful
> 
> * For further elucidation upon this point, see "Some Answered Questions," by
> Miss Barney.
> 
> [PAGE 5]
> 
> that you are all working with us in the garden. You have come to the Divine
> Paradise.
> 
> St. John the Divine, has told us in that day there shall be no more tears or
> death; tears are wiped from your eyes and you will enjoy the happiness of a
> united household."
> 
> _______________
> 
> The same Evening.
> 
> A Talk by Ebn Abhar.
> 
> The washing away of sins by Christ was not by blood, but by the
> practice of His teachings; and knowing they would not live up to them He said
> He would come again to finish His work.
> 
> The words of the Prophets are collective, are comprehensive. He knew they
> would deny, but the people now are acknowledging in every line of life, by
> making advancement in every direction and advent.
> 
> Children going to school need teachers to give lessons according to the
> capacity of the children, and now that we are grown up we get lessons according
> to our capacity. The light is always one, but the Messianic aspects are quite
> different.
> 
> Nov. 8th, 1908, Morning in the Tea Room.
> 
> We were called to the tea room, about seven o'clock, to meet Abdul Baha and his
> family. A venerable Persian gentleman of the family chanted some of the words
> of Baha'o'llah. After this Abdul Baha said:
> 
> "The Catholics believe that when they die they go to a place between Heaven and
> hell, called purgatory, to become purified, where they suffer, and then they
> are prepared to enter Heaven." Looking and referring to us three pilgrims, he
> said: "That is your condition while here in Acca, you suffer some bodily
> discomforts, you do not have the food you are accustomed to; troublesome and
> long journeys, etc.
> 
> Every one who visits here should make progress. I hope you, too, will make
> progress day by day; each day as I see you I hope that you will have made more
> progress.
> 
> [PAGE 6]
> 
> As a father who loves his children; as a teacher who loves his pupils and
> desires that they make progress, so I hope that you will make progress. As I
> love you very much, I hope that you will advance rapidly, and when you leave
> here you will be changed so that you may become like refreshing water to the
> thirsty ones, brilliant stars in the Assemblies, and firm trees in the garden
> of the Kingdom of God. Each one of you, like the light of a lamp, shall be the
> light of an Assembly."
> 
> Nov. 8th, Sunday Afternoon.
> 
> Six Persian and Indian brothers visited us this afternoon. After greetings and
> exchange of love messages from the German and American believers, one of the
> Persian believers said: "Persia is not free. We are not able to give the Glad
> Tidings, so we cannot advance rapidly, but in many assemblies we number one
> hundred or more."
> 
> Two of these believers had escaped from the martyrdom at Yazd; one of them a
> relative of the Bab, by name Mirza Abdul Buassah.
> 
> One, a Jewish believer from Hamadan, tells of their meetings in his home town.
> Hamadan is 60 miles from Teheran. Three-fourths of the population are
> believers.
> 
> Presently Abdul Kazim brought us some jasmine flowers in a cabbage leaf from
> the garden of the Rizwan, and he told us it was through the Love of God we were
> brought from our country to Syria.
> 
> Nov. 8th, 3 P. M.
> 
> We were visited by the wife of Abdul Baha, Moneera Khanum, who said she felt
> keenly the fact the[sic] she could not speak our language, so that she might be
> able to tell us how much she loved us.
> 
> Then Miss Fanny said: "Oh, if we had but a thousandth part of your knowledge
> and love." Her reply was: "We are all maid-servants, and if we live according
> to the commands given us, we will be nearer to God. Those nearest to God are
> those who obey His commandments.
> 
> [PAGE 7]
> 
> "Think! In the days of Christ, some of His relatives were far from Him, and in
> this day, how very far from God is Mohammed Ali!"
> 
> We spoke of having read so many tablets in which we were told that Abdul Baha
> shall be known only by the name of Abdul Baha. Moneera Khanum said that
> Baha'o'llah called him Master. And every Prophet, after proclaiming His
> mission, adopts a name. Moses spoke of Himself as the Interlocutor; Christ of
> Himself as the Son of God; and Abdul Baha calls Himself Abdul Baha, the Servant
> of God.
> 
> Nov. 8th, Evening.
> 
> Ebn Abhar, just returning from the Tomb of Baha'o'llah, told us that he had the
> intention of giving us a bunch of roses, but meeting Abdul Baha he was so
> overjoyed that he gave them to Him. There was remaining in his hand, however,
> three small flowers, which were given to us.
> 
> He said: "When we closely examine the things deposited in the various regions
> of the earth, we find that each and all are expressions of the Divine and signs
> of the Merciful, according to their degree of receptivity.
> 
> Now we discover that in each class there is one member which attains
> perfection; for instance, the fruit of the earth, any one kind, there is one
> specimen which is perfect, in color, shape and taste, neither too acid nor too
> sweet.
> 
> Among the jewels, precious stones, there must be one perfect gem of its kind;
> one ruby, one diamond, one gem which is the most perfect, most complete,
> entirely without flaw.
> 
> Now, let us come to the most interesting kingdom, that is, mankind -- the human
> kingdom. We find in this kingdom there are some who are noted for their
> physical beauty. Suppose you were to examine these beautiful people; we find
> one who surpasses the rest in beauty. Among men we find some who are famous as
> possessing a good temperament, and examining these we find one who
> 
> [PAGE 8]
> 
> is more perfect. Likewise in Sciences. Among those who have acquired science,
> there must be one who is the most scientific. We have now come to the subject
> of knowledge (science); this is of two kinds; it is either acquired, --
> scholastic or immediate -- untaught, innate or intuitional. When a certain
> soul gives expression to knowledge which was not acquired by him from a tutor
> or in school, that Soul is Divine and that Knowledge is Heavenly.
> 
> Such a soul will claim that he is sent by God, bringing new knowledge to the
> world. What practical, tangible evidence have we of such a claimant? One of
> these evidences or proofs is power and capability, which will help Him to
> reveal this knowledge to the public, and to withstand opposition with
> steadfastness in His claims. His power must be effective, to subdue, to
> conquer. He must be majestic, so that through this quality the listener will
> be awed. He must be a magnet, to attract. His attractiveness does not mean
> simply to attract men, to attract only his own tongue and country, but must
> also attract those who oppose and are of different nations. He must have
> patience; in fact must possess all these qualities. Such great souls do not
> appear often, but from cycle to cycle they appear, and say: 'I am Divine. My
> qualities are divine!'
> 
> When these great souls put forth their mission, those expecting them look for
> one from some noble family, royal lineage, great wealth. So they always lack
> according to this expectation. Yet His teachings last. The people being blind
> to His teachings always oppose and persecute Him, and usually end by crucifying
> Him. Every class will oppose Him with whatever means of opposition they think
> will be the most effective. Nevertheless, that one single soul withstands all
> opposition.
> 
> His science creates new science. His words, new words. His life, new modes of
> life. His power is such in the world of God as will change the natural habits
> of men and transform them. By the effectiveness of His words even personal
> attributes are changed. If one is envious, he becomes a well-wisher. If
> harmful, becomes
> 
> [PAGE 9]
> 
> useful. If a liar, becomes truthful. If subject to lust and passion, he
> becomes the opposite of these traits. Individual characteristics are changed,
> and a certain love is produced in the hearts of His believers as the effect of
> His word.
> 
> In the first station as the effect of this love He offers Himself as a target
> for the arrows of persecution, offers Himself to martyrdom. In the secondary
> station He longs to sacrifice His belongings in the way of the beloved friends
> who believe on Him; and in the third station, He is willing to part with all
> the things of earth as well as Heaven, for the sake of the people of the
> earth.
> 
> __________________
> 
> Nov. 8th.
> 
> Abdul Baha at Lunch.
> 
> You are not accustomed to Persian food. America and Europe are like unto the
> dawn of the sun of reality, just at the beginning of the morning. But before
> long the Sun of Reality will give its full light, then you will realize how
> beautiful it will be. But now it is like the beginning of spring, when the
> grass comes through the ground, but when the time of blossom and fruition will
> come, it will be very beautiful. Just now you are living in the spring time,
> and you must work very hard that you become fruitful trees.
> 
> The tree, no matter how green or beautiful it may be, if it is not fruitful, it
> is useless. So you will see many trees which are green and fresh, but produce
> no fruit. In the same way you see a man in the world who is very wise,
> learned, refined, accomplished, and diplomatic, but he is deprived of the
> Bounty of the Kingdom, and will not possess a share of it. But it is possible
> to see a man who is not accomplished or educated but who still has a share in
> the Bounty of the Kingdom, and when he attains to the Bounty of the Kingdom, of
> course he will be a fruitful tree.
> 
> Notice the women who lived in the time of Christ, and who believed in Him in
> those days; though they had
> 
> [PAGE 10]
> 
> no share in science or learning, but as they had entered into the Kingdom of
> God they obtained fruit out of their existence and became fruitful trees.
> 
> If one entering the Kingdom of God possesses learning and science it is well,
> but the essential thing, or the thing of greatest importance, is to enter into
> the Kingdom of God, and to be characterized by the Divine attributes, and to
> have the intention of doing good to the world, and to be perfectly kind to each
> member of the human family, and serve in promoting Universal Peace. Science
> and learning are good, but they are the branches, not the root.
> 
> __________________
> 
> Nov. 8th, Evening, at table.
> 
> Abdul Baha.
> 
> In former cycles people used to relate by tradition the things which happened
> during the time of the Prophets; for instance, the disciples explained the
> miracles during the time of Christ; these statements were oral. But in this
> great day facts are established; what Baha'o'llah has performed was seen by the
> eyes. When Baha'o'llah was under chains He sent tablets to the kings. He
> admonished Napoleon Bonaparte severely. What he said was fulfilled. Likewise,
> the recent movements in the capital of Persia, Teheran, were mentioned forty
> years ago. Those tablets were printed then and distributed--a matter of record
> forty years ago. These are not oral; even enemies cannot deny it. While in
> prison Baha'o'llah sent a tablet to Abdul Majid, father of the present Shah,
> arraigning him severely, telling him he would be dethroned. All that was
> foretold has come to pass, literally.
> 
> [PAGE 11]
> 
> Nov. 8th, Afternoon.
> 
> The Words of Moneera Khanum
> 
> (Wife of Abdul Baha.)
> 
> She is sorry that the people of the village do not appreciate the Presence of
> Abdul Baha, but they are so far from God. She has often, in a gentle way, led
> up to the subject of religion, and on several occasions has asked them: "Why
> do you think we have been sent here?" But they had never thought about it.
> 
> Today a young lady called whose parents owned the house in which formerly the
> family of Baha'o'llah lived. This lady is a Christian. Moneera Khanum asked
> her, "Have you ever thought why we were sent here?" The reply was, "No!"
> 
> Moneera Khanum, said: "You know us, that we neither steal, nor do we kill any
> one." The lady replied: "I have heard some of the natives speak of of [sic]
> you, saying, These Persians were exiled because they have a faith, a religion,
> which is contrary to the religion of Persia."' Moneera Khanum then asked, "What
> is religion? Is is [sic] not the expression or form of worshipping God? You
> are a Christian, can you prove to me the truth of Christ's teaching?" This
> young lady could not. She was then asked if she was certain that Christ's
> teachings are true? She replied, "I do not know!"
> 
> In regard to the name "Master," the beloved Moneera Khanum said:
> 
> "The Great-Grandfather of Baha'o'llah was Abbas, and when Abdul Baha was born
> he was given his great-grandfather's name. Abdul Baha in his childhood and
> early youth showed marks of wisdom and knowledge, maturity beyond his years.
> "Master," when spoken from father to son, is the same as "darling," or "dear ;"
> because of love he is called "Master."
> 
> After the departure of Baha'o'llah, he chose the name Abdul Baha, and the
> assumption of this name is for the purpose of designating himself as the
> Servant of God.
> 
> [PAGE 12]
> 
> Nov. 9th, Morning in Tea Room.
> 
> Moneera Khanum said: "It is hard to want to tell our love and yet not be able
> to speak the language. It is like being thirsty and with water at hand, and
> yet not able to drink."
> 
> Abdul Baha then came into the room, while we were drinking tea, and after the
> usual greetings, inquired as to our health and comfort, and whether we had
> slept well.
> 
> Mrs. Ida A. Finch then had an opportunity to speak of the question of Mrs.
> Corinne True, in regard to the ground of the Mashrak el Azkar, which was
> whether they should go into debt, or whether to begin building immediately.
> 
> If they can afford to buy half the ground, then begin building. It requires a
> large piece of ground. There must be a Hospital, a College, a School for
> Orphans, and a Hospice. These buildings must be on one piece of ground, but
> separated from each other by gardens.
> 
> After tea with the ladies of the household, we were requested to get ready to
> make the pilgrimage to the Tomb of Baha'o'llah.
> 
> The widow of the man who gave his life for Mr. Sprague, with Mrs. Finch, Miss
> Alma, Miss Fanny Knobloch and one of Abdul Baha's daughters, were taken in
> Abdul Baha's carriage to the Tomb. After a short ride we arrived there. With
> our shoes removed we stood reverently before the door, feeling keenly our
> unworthiness to cross the threshold; and there we prayed for ourselves and the
> dear ones we had promised to remember while there. After a few moments we
> entered the room where the body lies, and again knelt, and prayed for
> worthiness and love, and endeavored again to include in our supplications,
> those precious ones who had not this blessed privilege.
> 
> After coming away from the tomb, the residents and care-takers of the place
> served tea, and we had a heart to heart talk with them, with the help of Abdul
> Baha's daughter, Moneva Khanum.
> 
> Miss Fanny suddenly remembered that she had forgotten to pray for a dear one,
> and asked permission to
> 
> [PAGE 13]
> 
> return to the tomb, so Mrs. Finch and Miss Alma took this opportunity to return
> also, and, with tears streaming from our eyes, and with feelings impossible to
> describe, prayed once more, and wished that we might stay there forever.
> 
> ________________
> 
> Nov. 9th, 1908.
> 
> Abdul Baha at Table. Noon.
> 
> Turning to Miss Alma he said: "Are you happy? Have the people of Germany the
> capacity to receive? Don't they hate you? Do they love you? If I were in
> their place I would put you out, for you are a rioter. The people objected to
> the disciples at the time of Christ, saying they had led the people astray."
> 
> In the time of Moses, Pharaoh said, "We will kill Moses, for he wishes to
> change our religion, and will be the cause of great damage to our land.
> Therefore, let us kill him soon, in order to protect our religion." Now the
> people of Germany will say the same to you, that you have gone there to change
> their religion. In Haifa there is a colony of Germans. When they came they
> were very pious and sincere, but they have departed from their mission and have
> become very haughty.
> 
> The Kingdom of God is like a tailor, and nations and sects are like pieces of
> cloth or materials; each nation or sect is a special material and now the real
> tailor is relating or connecting these materials to each other. We hope that
> before long there will be made a Divine robe out of these nations or materials.
> Again, the Lord of the Kingdom is like a gardener. He plants in the garden
> many flowers of various colors, puts them together like this bunch (referring
> to one on the table). So we are waiting and expecting to finish this bunch.
> 
> (After a pause.)
> 
> At present the gardener is working.
> 
> [PAGE 14]
> 
> Nov. 10th, 1908.
> 
> Morning Talk by Abdul Baha.
> 
> Whoever does the least service for this Cause at this time will never be
> forgotten in the Kingdom.
> 
> Nothing is lasting in the material world. Why should we want a kingdom of this
> earth? It does not last! But service in the Kingdom of God will last forever.
> Since Christ's time how many kings and queens have come and gone; is there any
> mention of some of them? .But look at those women in the days of Christ --
> Mary Magdalen and others, they served in the cause of God, and their names are
> still living.
> 
> Mary Magdalen was only a woman of the town, and they used to blame her very
> much, but after she believed in Christ see her glory! Judge by the present,
> how many days have passed, and we are now talking about her.
> 
> What great bounty and Providence He has given His maid-servants, a glorious
> crown placed upon their heads, great blessings do descend upon them. If you
> thank God every moment, you cannot thank Him enough.
> 
> Therefore when you go back from here you must go with perfect joy and give the
> glad tidings to every one. Just think of anyone outwardly, to be able to reach
> a King or a President, how happy he is! But you have found the way to God, you
> have entered the Kingdom of God, become maid-servants of God.
> 
> If while outside the Kingdom you should think yourself the most happy creature,
> you are not.
> 
> All the meetings in the world forever and ever will be occupied in your mention
> and in glorifying you, but for your love for Baha'o'llah who will, perhaps, be
> blamed, cursed, injured; but the children and descendants who follow them that
> blame, will glorify you, and wish to be in your place. Therefore whatever you
> receive from the people, you must be more happy, rejoiced, and the more
> enkindled because in the end the victory is yours.
> 
> Abdul Baha then said to Miss Alma and Fanny, after a pause:
> 
> [PAGE 15]
> 
> "If you could see the glory in which your mother now dwells you would not care
> to live another day -- you could not live.
> 
> "I will write a Tablet for your mother, which you shall read at her grave.
> Through this Tablet her name will be known through all eternity."
> 
> Nov. 10th, 1908.
> 
> Abdul Baha at Table. Noon.
> 
> We are having a very good meeting, very sweet and full of the Spirit. Thanks
> be to God that the love of Baha'o'llah has gathered us. Our countries are
> different and far from one another, and in the same way our national customs
> and habits are different, our languages, our opinions and thoughts are
> different; in every way we are very far from one another. But the influence of
> the word of God has gathered us, and we are here together in perfect love.
> Therefore, it is very interesting, delicious and sweet -- very much sweeter
> than this melon.
> 
> You must consider how dear you were to God that He has led you to His Kingdom,
> and that you were chosen from the many who were called.
> 
> How many clergymen, ministers have no share in this! How many men of
> knowledge, many philosophers, princes, and kings! All these are deprived and
> you have attained. God has chosen you. How dear you were to God.
> 
> It was the same in the days of Christ. All the Pharisees, all the great men,
> all the kings, all the ministers, and all the rich people and men of importance
> were deprived. Peter, Paul, Mark, John, Mary Magdalen and Mary, the Mother of
> Jesus, such were the ones who attained to the Kingdom. Now one can realize how
> dear those souls were to God, that He chose them to enter and serve in His
> kingdom.
> 
> [PAGE 16]
> 
> Abdul Baha at Table. Evening.
> 
> For every great cause which is to appear, God will prepare some means. For
> instance, when the season of Spring is at hand, before that season appears
> there will be snow storms, rain, thunder and a great many things will happen.
> This is a preparation for the coming of the Spring. If preparation should not
> precede, the Spring would not appear.
> 
> The greater the storms, the more abundant the fall of rain, the more beautiful
> and splendid the Spring.
> 
> Although the former Manifestations have come from God, the means of unity for
> mankind was not prepared in their time. It was as though there was nothing,
> and conflicting conditions were still remaining in the world; there was no
> transportation and railways, no joining of Europe, Asia and Africa. People
> could not meet each other, the means were not ready. If a man should travel
> some distance from his country, he could not let it be known where he was.
> Because of this the teachings of Moses were confined to Palestine. The cause
> of Jesus Christ was spread over some parts of Europe, Asia and Africa, and the
> cause of Mohammed over some parts of Europe, Asia and Africa; none were
> universal. The unity of mankind was not realized, perfect connection was not
> produced amongst mankind, for there was no means for this; they could not meet
> each other. But in the Cause of the Blessed Perfection, Baha'o'llah, the
> greatest preparations are in evidence. .The means for the unity and harmony of
> mankind is found in the most complete way. Communication is so easy that in a
> single moment the East can communicate with the West. A hundred days can be
> passed in a single day. Ships, in other Manifestations, could only sail near
> the shore, and if sometimes they did go far they would be missed and could not
> be traced. Now they cross the ocean.
> 
> In the days of the Prophets, Christ and Mohammed, there were many plains and
> deserts on which no one had traveled, now the trains can go directly and pass
> over them easily, and the land and sea are so connected with each other that
> the globe can be traversed in one month.
> 
> [PAGE 17]
> 
> Hence the world has received the capacity for the unity of mankind. These
> preparations, these capacities, are all made ready for the spread of the
> teachings of this Great Cause; and it is possible that the teachings and
> instruction of Baha'o'llah can be given to everybody in the world; therefore,
> the hope is great that the tent of unity will soon be pitched, and there is
> great probability that war and strife will be annihilated, and it is possible
> that the trades, professions and arts of the earth shall be diffused, therefore
> it is possible that the Teachings shall be spread throughout the world.
> 
> Were it not for this preparation it would be impossible for you to have heard
> of this Cause in your country. This is a self-evident proof that the world has
> received the capacity for the Cause, and what Cause in the world is greater
> than this?
> 
> ______________
> 
> Nov. 10th, 1908.
> 
> Evening. Ebn Abhar.
> 
> But now the Greatest Manifestation is so universal for all the world, that it
> will pitch the tent of Universal Peace, under which all the nations and all the
> religions will gather. Therefore, Baha'o'llah addresses the people of the
> world, saying: "O, ye people, of the world, the tent of Unity is raised up. Do
> not look at each other with the eye of difference; ye are all the leaves of one
> tree and the drops of one sea."
> 
> The former prophets educated the tree of humanity gradually; it was first as a
> seed; then, a small shoot; then it gave forth branches and leaves; then it
> bloomed; then it gave fruit; -- but still it was unripe. Now is the time it
> will be ripened. There have been six Manifestations; the seventh is this Great
> Manifestation. Today Abdul Baha invites all to eat and partake of the fruit in
> the Kingdom of the Father, for He unfolds or discloses the mysteries of the
> teachings of His Father, which conforms to what Christ said in the words: "I
> will come in the Glory of my Father." From this we must
> 
> [PAGE 18]
> 
> understand that He had not been in the Glory of His Father, but that He must
> come again. Glory means the Unity of the world which had not been realized
> before; the world of humanity has the capacity to receive this great gift, and
> this world of dust is so improved that it can be changed into a Paradise.
> 
> His Glory is now manifested among all the nations of the world. We see now
> that all the kings and subjects of the world are willingly desirous to be
> united; this is the sign of the Glory and Majesty of the Father. The Son has
> already come in the Glory of the Father, and He gives the fruit, or the
> interpretation of the Words of the Father. Christ said that "I am the Alpha
> and the Omega," because the fruit is at first the seed, and again in the fruit
> you find the seed. Therefore, He is the Glory of His Father.
> 
> Same Evening by Ebn Abhar.
> 
> To compare the effects of this Cause with those of former ones, we will speak
> of Zoroaster, who was a Prophet. He commanded his followers to make a long
> shirt and to place a little pocket in front in the shape of a grave.
> Zoroastrians believe that whatever good deeds they perform will be collected in
> this pocket, and in the last days they will receive their reward. While the
> teaching was not for this purpose, but rather that when they see it (the
> pocket), they remember their death, and by this would be protected from
> committing any bad action.
> 
> They have a girdle which must be made out of seventy-two threads, and it must
> be made out of very fine quality of wool, and this is also a token, a sign for
> them to remember, that as a sheep, whose parts are all of use, so they must
> perform actions which are all good and deal with all mankind in brotherly love,
> and that all their words, deeds and actions may be useful to mankind. As to
> the seventy-two threads, this signifies that they must associate with all
> different religions of the world; as to its softness, it means that they must
> be kind; and as to its being tied round the waist, that they must deal
> 
> [PAGE 19]
> 
> with mankind in moderation and justice. These are the teachings of
> Zoroaster.
> 
> Each Prophet left after Him some sign by which He meant some significance. But
> in this day we are commanded to love mankind, to be united, and this is the
> only means for the prosperity and improvement of humanity. Now we must stand
> up firmly and serve the Cause with all our might; overlook our comfort and rest
> in helping the people to attain to the share of the Kingdom. And Christ said:
> "We shall know the tree by its fruits."
> 
> By this is meant the former prophets gave up their lives in the way of the
> welfare of mankind; thus it will happen in the day of the Manifestation.
> Therefore, the more you are under troubles; if the priest excommunicate you, or
> curse you, the more you must feel glad and happy and thankful, for the tree of
> your life has given fruit.
> 
> * * * * * * * *
> 
> Marriage is one of the signs in this Manifestation, to show that the
> Manifestation must be willing to sacrifice all in the path of God, even His
> family.
> 
> ____________________
> 
> Nov. 11th, 1908.
> 
> Abdul Baha. Morning.
> 
> How are the Believers? Are they enkindled? Are they brilliant stars in the
> Assembly? Do they serve the Cause of God in Love and Harmony? In the meetings
> of Believers is there a real quickening, or is it cold? There is a difference.
> Sometimes there are people at a meeting who are like candles having no light.
> They have been extinguished. There are other candles which are aflame and give
> light to the meeting.
> 
> Meetings are like gardens. There are some gardens which are fresh and fertile,
> having trees which have beautiful blossoms, which produce very sweet and
> delicious fruit. But there are gardens which are dead.
> 
> What we wish for the meetings of Believers is that they shall be enkindled and
> enlightened. That the face of
> 
> [PAGE 20]
> 
> the Believers shall be like sunshine, like the open rose, so that every one
> entering the meeting will recognize the light which they possess. It will be
> like a man entering a garden, and though he may have a cold and so be unable to
> inhale the perfume, yet he can see the full beauty and the freshness of the
> flowers.
> 
> In the meeting the words of the Believers must be about God and the Wisdom of
> God, or to illustrate the proofs and signs of God. What we mean by this is
> that the words must be words for the enlightenment and enkindlement of others,
> just as we speak with love and kindness to the people of the world.
> 
> Nov. 11th, 1908.
> 
> Abdul Baha at Table. Evening.
> 
> In the world of existence one must look in everything to the capacity and
> ability.
> 
> For instance, if a man wishes to attain the art of writing, he must look to
> himself to see whether he has the ability or not. If a man wishes to teach, he
> must feel sure that he has the ability. So it is with a captain; he must first
> realize in himself whether he is fitted for that work or not. In short, every
> work depends upon capacity and ability, that is man must first see whether he
> has the ability for working in some profession, or not; without regarding this
> matter he would at last be disappointed. But in the work of the Kingdom of
> God, that is exceptional: In this place or station one should not consider
> capacity or ability; the confirmation of the Spirit will descend; because we
> hold that the weakest souls through the confirmation of the Holy Spirit become
> the most powerful. Some souls who were outwardly ignorant, through this gift
> become learned ones. The weakest souls become the strongest. Many times a
> woman has surpassed a thousand men, or, rather, through this help could
> withstand all the people of the world.
> 
> His highness, Moses, was apparently a shepherd, but through the Divine Power,
> he overcame Pharaoh and his armies. Likewise, the disciples were the
> weakest
> 
> [PAGE 21]
> 
> souls, but through the Breath of the Holy Spirit and the assistance of the
> Kingdom of God, they became the strongest ones. The object which I wish to
> convey to you is this, -- you should not look at your capacity or ability, nay,
> rather, rely upon the confirmation of the Holy Spirit, -- do not doubt. (after
> a long pause) Be confident and sure. It will help you.
> 
> ________________________
> 
> Nov. 11th, 1908.
> 
> A Visit from Moneera Khanum
> 
> The Wife of Abdul Baha,
> 
> A short Account of Events before her Birth.
> 
> Her parents had been married ten years, yet had no children. They were of the
> first believers at the time of the Bab. Her father and uncle went to visit the
> Holy Tomb of Hussein in Karbala. They saw the Bab there, who was a descendant
> of Mohammed. When her uncle and father were at prayer they saw a youth who was
> not like the others. He displayed so much devotion, and repeated some new
> prayers. They immediately felt a great love for Him so they followed him to
> see where he went, and as they followed wondered whether he was a human being
> or an Angel. He entered a little house, and they knocked at the door. A woman
> came, and they asked who he was. She said: "I do not know, except he came and
> hired a room." Then they went away. But Said Kassam, one of the astronomer's
> pupils, and her father met the Bab there. They were sitting all together, and
> when the Bab came into the room they became quiet. After he sat down, he took
> his handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his face, and said: "The time is
> near for His coming. The time is near; the darkness is going away." The sun
> was shining through the window and resting on the Bab's lap, and they thought
> he meant the sun.
> 
> The Bab left Karbala and went to Shiraz, and they, her father and uncle, heard
> that some one in Shiraz was claiming that he was the Promised One from
> Heaven.
> 
> [PAGE 22]
> 
> Thus they decided this was the One whom they had seen praying at the tomb.
> They immediately went to Shiraz without saying "good-bye" to their families.
> But when they arrived he had gone to Mecca; then they went to Isphahan and met
> the Bab el Bab, and became good believers.
> 
> The wives of her uncle and father were worried, and did not know where they had
> gone. So the sister of the Bab el Bab came to them and said: "You don't know
> where they have gone? Come with me and I will take you to one who can tell you
> all about them." So she took them to the house of Kurrat-al-Ayn, a little
> house, and in a little room a beautiful woman was writing. When she had
> finished writing she said:
> 
> "You do not look very happy. The people are talking and you are troubled. Why
> are you sorry? For at last you must be separated. I want to tell you some
> news which will make you happy."
> 
> So she read the letter she had written, telling the Great News, the proofs and
> signs in regard to the Bab. They were so affected they began to cry, fell
> before her and began to kiss her.
> 
> Moneera Khanum's father and uncle waited in Isphahan until the Bab came. Her
> parents had been married some years before, but had no children. When the Bab
> came to Isphahan he came to their house, and after dinner began to speak. He
> asked if they had any children. No, they had not. Then her father asked the
> Bab for a child. So the Bab gave her father some bread and said: "Give this to
> your wife," which he did immediately, and in eight months and nine days she was
> born. But before she was born her father and uncle went to Mazanderan
> expecting to be killed. Her father said, "If a girl is born her name is
> Fatima; if a boy, Ali." When they arrived at the gate of Mazanderan they could
> not enter and then they went to Badesht. Baha'o'llah was there, and some other
> believers. They were there some months; hard times and exposure caused the
> death of her uncle. When her father returned she was five months old. She was
> called "The Morsel of the Bab."
> 
> [PAGE 23]
> 
> Nov. 11th.
> 
> Table, Afternoon. Mirza Assad Ullah.
> 
> The Bab was of the lineage of Mohammed the Prophet. He lost his father when a
> child. His uncle educated and reared him. Those who used to meet the child
> testified as to his character. His behavior was distinguished from others.
> When he reached the age of maturity he kept all the ordinances and performed
> them according to the Mohammedan religion. Those who met him were amazed and
> marvelled at his character. He was at one time in business with his uncle.
> 
> In those days there was a man called Sheik Ahmed of Ahsa. He was one of the
> most scientific and learned men. He was interpreting the Koran and
> interpreting the mysteries to his students, and in the meantime announcing to
> the people the coming of this advent, but without announcing it openly. He had
> a student, Said Kazam, who was teaching the people and making them ready to
> receive and know that the Manifestation was at hand, because the Mohammedans
> were expecting the Manifestation of the Promised One. These two gentlemen were
> as the precursors.
> 
> This Said Kazam was living in Karbala where the Imam was martyred, and buried,
> and he had a class of students. When the Bab went to Karbala to visit the
> Blessed Shrine, he used to come and attend the class. Said Kazam recognized
> the Bab to be the Manifestation through the signs and prophecies of the Book.
> But he did not divulge it. He educated his pupils, but one day he told them,
> "I will soon have to go away." Those around him expressed their regret and
> their sorrow. Then he said to them, "Don't you wish me to go away so that the
> Promised One may come?"
> 
> When this great Sheik died, his students gathered together saying to one
> another, "Our teacher promised us that the Advent is near at hand." At the
> conclusion of their consultation they decided to search for the Promised One.
> Each of them traveled toward a certain place or country, and promised each
> other that should any one
> 
> [PAGE 24]
> 
> of them find the Promised One he would announce it to his friends. Among them
> was Mullah Hussein, from Bushroozah, with two of his friends who came to
> Shiraz.
> 
> (Statement of the Bab el Bab.)
> 
> "I entered Shiraz, and lodged in a certain house. When I came out for
> a walk, as I was walking I met a youth whose face was shining, and he was
> walking in a serene, sedate manner. As he came toward me he greeted and
> saluted me, asked after my health and wherefore did I come? Seeing I was a
> stranger he invited me to his house and served me with tea. Then I told the
> youth, `I have not yet found the Promised One. Then he answered, `What are the
> signs required?' Do you realize them in me?' I answered, `Yes! but I need a
> miracle. I want a miracle.' He answered, `The miracle you received from
> Mohammed was a book.' And immediately he handed me a pamphlet, telling us,
> `Read this.' After reading it in the same night I was converted.
> 
> By and by those friends who had scattered in search of the Promised One, came
> together in that city, and by reading this pamphlet they were all converted --
> eighteen in all.
> 
> Then the Bab left them and made a pilgrimage to Mecca, and commanded his
> followers to go abroad and teach the people.
> 
> He said, "Say to the people that the Door for the Greatest Manifestation is
> opened." The Bab-el-Bab was commanded to go to Teheran, and the Bab promised
> him "You shall receive a great gift while in Teheran."
> 
> When he reached Teheran he met Baha'o'llah, and without investigating further
> or having been told, he said to himself, "This is what I have been promised."
> At which he was entirely transfigured.
> 
> The Bab went to Mecca, and the Bab-el-Bab went to other parts to teach. On the
> Bab's return he was arrested and sent out of the city. So we can say the Bab
> was taken to the Castle of Maku, in which he was confined, then to the Castle
> of Chihrik; then from there, after a period of close confinement, he was taken
> to Tabriz, where he was
> 
> [PAGE 25]
> 
> martyred. From the time of his declaration to his martyrdom was six years,
> just entering the seventh.
> 
> The remarkable evidence of his power is in the fact that during these six
> consecutive years of banishment and imprisonment he revealed his great master
> works -- the great Heavenly books. In all of these books and in his utterances
> to those whose great privilege it was to meet him, he prophesied the coming of
> "Him Whom God would Manifest," but mostly in symbolic form, allegorically, not
> referring to the name openly. The expression used by him was "He whom God
> shall Manifest."
> 
> During this time Baha'o'llah was constantly engaged in the promulgation of the
> Cause of God; but without proclaiming Himself, or making known His station.
> Some, but few, among His friends, the early disciples, discovered that he was
> The One of whom the Bab spoke -- "He Whom God shall Manifest." Although
> Baha'o'llah was of royal lineage, and not of the scholastic or learned, the
> people naturally looking for this Promised One among the Divines, yet His
> marvellous discourses astonished the wise and learned, and they who were pure
> in heart saw in Him the fulfillment of their hopes.
> 
> Baha'o'llah well prepared the people for the coming of the Great Event, namely,
> His Declaration, which took place in the Garden of the Rizwan, outside the City
> of Bagdad. During twelve days He made His mission known to His disciples, and
> inasmuch as this great event occurred in the Garden of the Rizwan, the greatest
> of Bahai feasts is called after that garden in commemorating the twelve days.
> Briefly -- after this He was exiled to Constantinople, Adrianople and then to
> Acca, where he wrote and sent his tablets to the crowned heads of Europe.
> 
> ______________
> 
> A Talk with Mirza Hyder Ali
> 
> who was eleven years imprisoned in Khartoum.
> 
> We believe in all the divine worlds; we are always together, for spiritual
> matters are eternal; there is no remoteness for it. At the time when he was
> young any
> 
> [PAGE 26]
> 
> one who would have called himself a believer would have been killed.
> 
> One evening he was with an assembly in a garden. They were talking about the
> Holy Bab, and he said to the assembly that the Bab had made a mistake. If the
> Bab had not made this mistake his Cause would have made great progress. When
> asked what it was, -- He was not on friendly terms with the Governor of the
> nation. Then one who was present said, "This mistake has been made by all the
> Prophets, even Jesus Christ; Moses, the same." Then I kneeled at his feet and
> knew he was a Bahai. But I did not tell him because I knew he would go away;
> therefore, I kept silent, but dealt with him in love and kindness. By and by
> when we became friends, he began to talk about the Prophets -- and in the first
> talk he said -- "The question you asked last night, how if Jesus Christ shed
> His blood for the sins of the people, then why should he come again?"
> 
> All the people of the world have the power of rejection; as much as a man obeys
> and follows the instructions of the prophets, he is saved and delivered from
> sin.
> 
> There is no love better or more perfect than to give one's life; because Jesus
> Christ proved His teaching of the truth by shedding His blood, the people of
> the world believed in Him. When they believed, they obeyed; the more they
> obeyed, the more they were delivered from sin. This is the meaning of His
> words: "I shed my blood for the believers of the world." The deliverance is
> only by following and obeying Him. Those who followed Him were saved. Christ
> said: "No one can follow me unless he take up his cross." What does this mean?
> Christ appeared to show the way to the Kingdom, the path or the way He went was
> the nearest to the kingdom; no one is able to follow Christ entirely, except he
> give up all material things, such as honor, wealth, etc. Then Christ promised
> to the one who should follow in His way, that when He should sit on the right
> hand of His Father, this one who has obeyed Him, will come and sit by His side.
> And Christ said: "I have many things to tell you, but you cannot bear it
> now,
> 
> [PAGE 27]
> 
> howbeit when He the Spirit of Truth is come, He will guide you unto all Truth."
> Then every one who believes that Christ is truthful, and follows His commands,
> will attain to this great day, as you have already attained.
> 
> A man once told him that every one in the world desires to be honored. It is
> impossible that a man should do a good work and say, "This was done by another
> one." Everyone has power according to his knowledge. For instance, a man who
> knows English perfectly can say, "I know English perfectly well," but the one
> who does not know it is afraid to say he knows it perfectly well.
> 
> Christ was not a learned man outwardly, and had no relation to any of the
> kings. He was not a rich man; He had no soldiers. He came and said: "I am the
> Promised One in your books." This statement of Christ was contrary to all the
> beliefs of the people at that time. Notwithstanding all this, He spread His
> teachings.
> 
> This same power we realize today. It has appeared a hundred-fold greater and
> more powerful. Therefore we believe the Father has come. People often asked
> Christ about His mission, or claim; but He did not answer. They asked: "Where
> do you get the power to do such miracles?" And He answered them, saying: "Was
> John a prophet? The people did not answer. Then He said: "Because you do not
> answer Me, I cannot answer you."
> 
> A few days before His crucifixion He asked His disciples: "What do the people
> say concerning me?" They said: "Some say you are John, some say, a prophet,
> and some say, Elias." Then Christ asked, "What do you say?" They answered:
> "You are the Promised One, in the Book." Christ said, "You are right, but
> don't say this to any one."
> 
> While today Baha'o'llah sent Tablets to the crowned heads of the world, telling
> them openly, "I am the Father." Then they exiled and banished Him to Acca, so
> that no one could meet or have communication with Him. But He spread His
> teachings and instructions while in prison. Is this power stronger than
> Christ, or not?
> 
> [PAGE 28]
> 
> Nov. 12th, 1908.
> 
> Abdul Baha. Morning.
> 
> Be ye not grieved or sorrowful that no great wealth or property
> has been bestowed upon you. Look at the birds! The first thing in the morning
> they are very thirsty and hungry. They go to the spring, and a few drops
> quench their thirst; then they pick up a few seeds and are perfectly satisfied
> and sit upon the branches and sing the praises of God. I hope you, too, will
> be satisfied.
> 
> Christ says that we are like the birds. The birds have habits; one is that
> they are satisfied with a few grains; they have neither property nor
> possessions; and they are most of the time on the branches of the trees,
> singing their beautiful melodies. Now you should be satisfied with few worldly
> things, and spend most of the time in spreading the truths of the Word of God.
> I hope while you are here you will become so filled with the love of God, and
> so satisfied that you will give to all a share.
> 
> Abdul Baha then suddenly spoke to Mrs. Finch, and said:
> 
> "Can't you influence your daughter to be a believer?"
> 
> "I have tried, but she says she is not ready yet. She is surrounded by worldly
> things."
> 
> He said:
> 
> "She can be in the world and still be a firm believer. She will become a very
> beautiful believer. You will help her."
> 
> "Since coming away my husband and son have announced that they were believers;
> it has made me very happy."
> 
> "You will find a very happy household when you return; great rejoicing."
> 
> [PAGE 29]
> 
> Abdul Baha. Noon Meal.
> 
> (A picture of Jacob wrestling with the Angel had been submitted for an
> explanation.)
> 
> The word Angel referred to in any of the Holy books does not refer to physical
> bodies descending from Heaven. Angel has two meanings. One is Divine
> Confirmation, which has been metaphorically called Angel; hence, when the word
> Angel is used, Divine Forces and Confirmations are meant.
> 
> The second is the following: --
> 
> Angels refer to human souls imbued with Divine attributes and Heavenly
> characteristics. They are the souls of whom the Lord has said: "We shall make
> men after Our likeness and image;" the purpose of the image or likeness is
> Divine attributes. For though outwardly of the earth, earthly, yet in reality
> they are of Heaven; although they are human, they are not accounted of the
> human, -- they are the Heavenly Angels, the radiant lamps, the Heavenly stars.
> Their Temple, or body, holds the station of the shell, while their spirits are
> like the pearl within. The body is like the rind, the spirit is like the
> kernel. The body is like the glass chimney on the lamp while the spirit is the
> light within. The glass is dark, and does not give light of itself, but
> inasmuch as the light has illuminated it, it has become an instrument of
> illumination. Angels referred to have earthly bodies, yet their
> characteristics are Heavenly, therefore they are interpreted as Angles.
> 
> And His Holiness, Jacob, because of having received Heavenly confirmations,
> with all his power held on to that force and power. For some souls receive
> confirmations, but they do not appreciate it. A child receiving a priceless
> gem, not knowing its value, will throw it aside, or another will sell his
> precious stone for a very small amount.
> 
> But His Holiness, Jacob, was not thus. His Holiness, Jacob, did know its
> value. He held on to the Hem (the Heavenly attributes), as depicted in the
> picture referred to.
> 
> [PAGE 30]
> 
> Afternoon, Nov. 12th.
> 
> Moneera Khanum.
> 
> The words Love and Unity have been more dwelt upon in the writings of
> Baha'o'llah than by any other prophet. In the Book of the Covenant it is noted
> most especially. In this tablet he says: "O, people of the world, I hope you
> will hold to the principles which will uphold your station." The station of
> man is great if he be true to himself, and live up to it.
> 
> If the friends live up to the teachings of the two pages of the Covenant, it
> will be sufficient.
> 
> Badi the Wonderful. The Martyr.
> 
> A certain man who was present when Badi was told he should
> carry the message to the king, saw him transfigured; he became radiant. Many
> kings and others will envy this youth his station.
> 
> ______________
> 
> Ebn Abhar.
> 
> The subject of the Cevenant [sic] is a very important one. It is referred to
> in all the Holy Books; in the Brahmanist in the Zoroastrian, and more clearly
> found in the Old and New Testament of the Gospels and of the Koran.
> 
> These Covenants referred to in the Holy books, focalize in the Great Covenant
> of the Bahai Dispensation, namely the Covenant witnessed by Baha'o'llah in His
> day.
> 
> How have the Covenants become manifest in the days of Baha'o'llah?
> 
> To illustrate this we will say that just as a certain tree, even before it
> bears its particular fruit, is known by its former fruit, that it is an apple
> or a pear, or some other fruit, and when that special fruit appears on its
> branch, it witnesses thereto.
> 
> [PAGE 31]
> 
> Likewise the Covenants taken in former ages were identified by the one
> established in the Great Day of Baha'o'llah. Hence Baha'o'llah was the witness
> of the Covenants given in former ages by the Lord. The center of these
> Covenants entered into by the people of former ages with the God of Might and
> Power and witnessed by Baha'o'llah, is the beloved Abdul Baha. Therefore all
> the former statements pertaining to the Covenant including the emphatic
> utterances of the blessed witness, refer to the center, namely Abdul Baha.
> 
> All references to the Testament of Covenant mean especially the Book of the
> Covenant.
> 
> In this His last book, the blessed Baha'o'llah has covenanted with His branches
> (agnan), twigs (afnan), and the relatives, as well as all the Bahais in the
> world, that they must turn to the One "Whom God has willed," that is the Center
> of the Covenant, Abdul Baha.
> 
> This is the meaning of the Mystery of God, according to the terminology of the
> One who has given the Mystery of God, or He Whom God has willed; but Who,
> according to Himself, is known as Abdul Baha (The servant of God).
> 
> He whom God has willed is the fruit of the tree. Hence Baha'o'llah is the
> Trunk, the branches, the root, all except the fruit, which is Abdul Baha. The
> coloring, the shape, the form, taste and all the attributes of the tree are in
> the fruit.
> 
> Hence, the teachings of Baha'o'llah, the bounties of Baha'o'llah, the
> Manifestation of His power, His words, have been spread throughout the world by
> this Great Soul. The effects of His words have been realized from this Great
> Life. This is the meaning of the statement of Jesus Christ -- "I shall come in
> the Glory of My Father!"
> 
> [PAGE 32]
> 
> Abdul Baha. Evening meal.
> 
> We should seek the Heavenly Kingdom. The earthly Presidency
> returns to dust, but the Heavenly Sovereignty is everlasting.
> 
> On the material plane even a goat may become a leader and all the rest of the
> goats will follow him. A herd of cows, treading their way home, has a leader,
> and the leader is very proud, holding his head high and tossing it from side to
> side. But the Heavenly Sovereignty is like the Sun when all the satellites of
> the Solar System revolve around it. To all of them the Sun gives light, and is
> eternal. Both the sovereign and the citizen receive bounty.
> 
> The physical or natural leader of the people is selected by the people, but the
> Heavenly Leader is selected by the Lord. A material leader, if a king, is
> mighty by the sword, and if a president, is powerful by the consensus of
> opinion. The Heavenly Ruler is mighty through Divine Bounty, and the election
> of the Holy Spirit, and through the Power of the Love of God.
> 
> The organizer of earthly sovereignty is a domineering, subjugating power, while
> the organizer of the Eternal Sovereignty is the Love Power.
> 
> The worldly sovereignty is effaced by a handful of dust, but a Divine and
> Heavenly Sovereignty is everlasting, effective, through the ages.
> 
> The earthly sovereignty destroys many souls in the process of its organization,
> while the Spiritual Sovereignty bestows life in the process of its
> organization. Therefore, alas for the souls who do away with themselves for
> earthly sovereignty!
> 
> [PAGE 33]
> 
> Nov. 13, 1908.
> 
> This morning we were told that the pictures of the Glorious Ones of God would
> be shown to us. And about ten o'clock we were called by Dr. Ameen U. Fareed to
> see them. As we came to the door of the room in which they are kept as the
> most sacred possessions of the Holy Household, we were all impelled to remove
> our shoes before crossing the threshold. Approaching the pictured faces in
> reverent awe, we were anointed by Baheyah Khanum (the sister of Abdul Baha),
> and as we knelt before the majestic likeness of the Blessed Perfection,
> Baha'o'llah, and that of the Bab, we were unable to speak.
> 
> Afternoon.
> 
> Mirza Assad Ullah.
> 
> We have become disciples, because we receive the Word direct from Abdul
> Baha.
> 
> In order to make the matter easy of comprehension, we will make the following
> statement. We can realize the value of present events by comparison with those
> which have occurred in the past.
> 
> Comparison is certainly a method of science established for the purpose of
> facilitating the understanding of things. The past foretells the future.
> 
> Let us then consider the occurrences of the Christian Dispensation. We note
> that the Apostles of Jesus Christ have become immortal through their connection
> with the life of the Good Master.
> 
> For example, the Apostle Paul has given us an account of the doings of his
> fellow disciples, and their bearing upon the Christian Life in his book called
> "The Acts of the Apostles." Because that work was written by him, whenever you
> open it, or listen to its perusal, you cannot but remember him; therefore you
> can say he is present and talking to you -- face to face -- and the same
> speaking from behind the veil or curtain. The speaker is the same. So it is
> the Apostle Paul talking to you through his writings. In a nearer and clearer
> sense the Apostles have become immortal; they are intermediaries, or
> narrators.
> 
> [PAGE 34]
> 
> This afternoon, in company with Moneera Khanum, wife of Abdul Baha, Zeah
> Khanum, and her little son, and Dr. Ameen U. Fareed, we pilgrims were permitted
> the privilege of visiting Rizwan, the Island Garden of Baha'o'llah, in which
> are two mulberry trees and the rivers on either side of the garden, made
> mention of in the Holy Books.
> 
> The seat over the river, which had in times past been a favorite resting place
> of Baha'o'llah, was pointed out to us; upon it was standing some potted
> plants, so placed as to guard it that others may not sit upon it. We then
> walked leisurely around the garden, noting the profusion of flowers,
> considering the lateness of the season; in the garden are growing pomegranates,
> oranges, lemons, dates and many shrubs and flowering plants unknown to us; and
> also many flowers in bloom, and traces of others that seemed like old
> acquaintances. In a little while we came to the other end of the garden where
> there is a house. In one of its rooms Baha'o'llah used to rest; in a far
> corner a chair was standing and flowers were upon it; we shared together these
> flowers. We then returned to the starting point, where preparation had been
> made to serve tea. While the tea was brewing, we ate some delicious
> pomegranates, and then, to the accompaniment of music of waters from the
> fountain, and the gentle flow of the river, we talked upon spiritual life, and
> we pilgrime [sic] gave some of our personal experiences in the Cause.
> 
> We remained in this sacred spot about an hour; then were conducted through some
> quite extensive vegetable gardens, purchased by some believers for the use of
> the Household. Then we entered the carriage of Abdul Baha in which we came to
> the gardens, and were once more taken to the Tomb of Baha'o'llah. We very
> earnestly desired this great privilege, but could not have anticipated or
> expected sufficient time to see it again; but so it was.
> 
> On our way to the tomb we passed many venerable pilgrims coming from the same
> sacred spot. We ran to
> 
> [PAGE 35]
> 
> shake hands with them; we knew they were our friends though we could pronounce
> but few of their names, and they came from many parts, yet the light of Baha
> shone in their faces.
> 
> Soon we came to the house where the remains of the earthly tenement of
> Baha'o'llah lies, and where the Spiritual Power, Great and Mighty, also is
> felt, impressive and real. We entered from another side to that used when
> first we visited it.
> 
> Moneera Khanum chanted a prayer in her own tongue, and we all felt that the
> hallowed, saintly words were said in our behalf. We knelt and prayed once more
> at the Throne of Grace for pardon and help, and did our feeble best for our
> friends and the believers in America.
> 
> Then we were served tea, and after a little loving conversation with the
> faithful care-takers of the tomb, we silently entered the carriage, and were
> taken home to Acca.
> 
> ________________
> 
> Through the Maidservant of God!
> 
> Miss Alma Knobloch,
> 
> To the beloved ones of God!
> 
> Upon them be Baha`o'llah!
> 
> HE IS GOD!
> 
> O ye Daughters and Sons of the Kingdom!
> 
> When the proclamation of God was exalted and spread in the East and the West
> and the souls became attracted to the Words of God, and heard the call with
> perfect devotion, joy, happiness and gladness, all the veils of doubt were torn
> and they were saved from imitating their fathers and ancestors; they beheld
> with their own eyes, and not through those of others; they heard with their own
> ears, and not through the ears of others, and they comprehended with their own
> minds, and not through the minds of others. Such souls were the Lovers of
> Light, and when they beheld the Morn of Reality and the Light
> 
> [PAGE 36]
> 
> of the Divine Sun, they became attracted, enkindled and believed in the Kingdom
> of God. They became the receivers of Benevolence and the manifestors of Light,
> because of the Rising Point of the Mysteries.
> 
> They chanted the Verses of Righteousness, and turned unto the Kingdom of Abha.
> Blessed are such souls who have recognized the Promised Beauty and have entered
> under the shadow of the Lord of Hosts.
> 
> Such souls are today the Army of Salvation, they are the Hosts of Light, they
> are occupied with Heavenly Victories in the East and West, and are engaged in
> dominating the hearts in Asia and America. At every moment they receive
> assistance from the Kingdom of Abha, and every day an Army will descend to them
> from the Supreme Concourse; this is why you see that when a single person will
> reach a country or city and begin to teach, he will at once see his words
> having great effect in the Holy Souls and the light of assurance and belief
> will shine in splendor.
> 
> The call of the Kingdom is like a spirit; it produces sudden effect in the
> nerves, arteries, hearts and souls and regenerates the people; baptizes them
> with Water, Spirit and Fire; the second Birth will be produced and new people
> will be raised; but other souls are like those whom Christ mentioned in the
> Gospels, saying that they have hearts but do not comprehend, and I cured
> them.
> 
> In short, I say that these souls were awakened and quickened by the
> Proclamation of God, but the others are still in ignorance, doubtful and
> deprived from the Sea of Life, and are deprived of the Benevolence of the Lord
> of Signs, have become shareless from the Heavenly Beauties, portionless and
> remote of Heavenly blessings; they have soiled themselves with the things of
> this perishable world and neglected the Everlasting World and Eternal Life.
> 
> They satisfied themselves with a drop and became shareless from the waves of
> the Sea; they attracted their hearts to a ray of the sun and became remote and
> indifferent to the Sun of Reality.
> 
> [PAGE 37]
> 
> It is a source of great regret that a man in this enlightened age and Divine
> century will become deprived from the Heavenly blessings.
> 
> If a tree will not become fertile and green through these Life-giving Breezes
> of the Spring Season, and will not bring forth blossoms and fruit and leaves,
> then in what season may it become verdant and fertile and at what time will it
> bear fruit?
> 
> Be assured, it will be forever and ever deprived and for all eternity
> hopeless.
> 
> Now you ought to give thanks to God that you have attained to a share of the
> effulgence of the Sun of Reality and have had a portion from Heavenly Grace.
> 
> Having heard the Call of God, you have attained to Life through the Breezes of
> the Holy Spirit, and have entered into the Eternal World and received
> Everlasting Mercy.
> 
> You have attained to such favors that you are able to shine forever, like unto
> the Morning Star, through Centuries and Ages. Like the Life-giving Breezes of
> the Paradise of Abha, you will become the cause of Eternal Life for many
> people.
> 
> Upon you be Baha El Abha.
> 
> (Signed) ABDUL BAHA ABBAS.
> 
> Translated by Moneva Khanum. Acca, Syria, November 12th, 1908.
> 
> Revealed during our stay in that Sacred Place.
> 
> [PAGE 38]
> 
> A VISITING TABLET.
> 
> Revealed for the Maid-Servant of God,
> 
> Mrs. Amalie Knobloch, who has
> 
> Ascended to the Kingdom
> 
> of the Almighty.
> 
> _____
> 
> The following is written by Abdul Baha's hand:
> 
> "The Believers in that City in which the Maid-Servant is buried, must all go to
> her Tomb and read this Visiting Tablet. (Signed) ABDUL BAHA ABBAS"
> 
> ____
> 
> Through His Honor Mirza Ahmad:
> 
> VISITING TABLET.
> 
> Revealed for the Attracted Maid-Servant of God,
> 
> Mrs. Amalie Knobloch, who has Ascended
> 
> to the Kingdom of God!
> 
> ____
> 
> HE IS GOD !
> 
> O, thou Pure Spirit, Amalie Knobloch! Although thou didst soar away
> from this terrestrial world, yet thou didst enter into the immeasurable,
> illumined Universe of the Almighty. While in this life thou didst hear the
> Divine Call, beheld the light of Truth, became alive by the Breaths of the Holy
> Spirit, tasted the sweetness of the Love of God, became the Maid-Servant of the
> Lord of Hosts and the object of the Bounties of His Highness the Desired one.
> Thou didst lead the erring ones into the
> 
> [PAGE 39]
> 
> Path of Truth and bestowed a portion of the Heavenly Food to those who are
> deprived. Thou didst consecrate the days of thy existence to the Service of
> His Highness the Clement and spent thy time in the diffusion of the Fragrances
> of the Paradise of Abha. There are many souls perfumed and many spirits
> illumined through thy services!
> 
> O, thou divine, beloved Maid-Servant! Although thou didst disappear from the
> mortal eyes, yet thou didst train and educate thy daughters, each of whom has
> arisen to serve the Kingdom like unto thee and is engaged in the guidance of
> souls. In the Assembly of wisdom they are the lighted candles; they sacrifice
> their lives in the Path of God; they are gardening in thy orchard and
> irrigating thy rose-garden. Happy is thy condition, for thou art enjoying
> Eternal Life in the Kingdom of Everlasting Glory and hast left in this world
> kind and loving Remembrances.
> 
> Happy are those souls who visit thy luminous resting-place and through thy
> commemoration receive and acquire spiritual Powers.
> 
> (signed) ABDUL BAHA ABBAS.
> 
> Translated by Mirza Ahmad Sohrab. February 24, 1910, Washington, D. C.
> 
> [PAGE 40]
> 
> METADATA
> 
> Views21181 views since posted 1998; last edit 2025-09-30 13:02 UTC;
> 
> previous at archive.org.../finch_knobloch_flowers_acca;
> URLs changed in 2010, see archive.org.../bahai-library.org
> Language
> English
> Permission
> public domain
> History
> Typed 1998 by Robert Stauffer; Proofread 1998 by Thellie Lovejoy.
> Share
> 
> Shortlink: bahai-library.com/728
> Citation: ris/728
> 
> select Collection:
> Archives
> Articles
> Articles-unpublished
> Audio
> Bibliographies
> BIC
> Biographies
> Books
> Chronologies
> Compilations
> Compilations-NSA
> Compilations-personal
> Documents
> East-asia
> Encyclopedia
> Essays
> Etc
> Excerpts
> Fiction
> Glossaries
> Guardian
> Histories
> Introductory
> Letters
> Maps
> Music
> Newspapers
> NSA-documents
> NSA-letters
> Personal
> Pilgrims
> Poetry
> Presentations
> Resources
> Reviews
> Scripts
> Software
> Statistics
> Study
> Talks
> Theses
> Transcripts
> Translations
> UHJ-documents
> UHJ-letters
> Video
> Visual
> Writings
> 
> home
> 
> sitemap
> 
> series
> 
> chronology
> 
> search:
> author
> 
> title
> 
> date
> 
> tags
> 
> adv. search
> languages
> 
> inventory
> 
> bibliography
> 
> abbreviations
> 
> links
> 
> about
> 
> contact
> 
> RSS
> 
> new
>
> — *Flowers Culled from the Rose Garden of Acca (Used by permission of the curator)*