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Source: Bahá'í Library Online (bahai-library.com), curated by Jonah Winters. Used by permission of the curator. Original citation: (unknown), Lights of 'Irfan Book 21, bahai-library.com.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Papers Presented at the
‘Irfán Colloquia and Seminars
Lights of ‘Irfán
Copyright ©2025, Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund
Papers published in Lights of ‘Irfán represent the views of their authors.
Reproductions from this compilation are permitted provided that the
sources and authors are clearly indicated, with the exception of provisional
translations, which are not to be further distributed.
Lights of ‘Irfán:
Studies in the Principal Bahá’í Beliefs
Papers Presented at the ‘Irfán Colloquia and Seminars
Volume Twenty-One
‘Irfán Colloquia
Bahá’í National Center 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (847) 733-3501 á Fax: (847) 733-3527
E-mail: contact@irfancolloquia.org á www.irfancolloquia.org
Sponsored by the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund
General Editor Iraj Ayman
182 B.E. 2025 C.E.
ISBN 978-1-89068-88-4
Design & Layout:
Majid C. Nolley
majidnolley.com
Dedicated to
Dr. Iraj Ayman
Feb. 9, 1928 – Nov. 12, 2025
This is the final volume edited by his hand.
“May the memory of his valued contribution to the field of
education in numerous academic and other settings as well as
his endeavors in the promotion of Bahá’í Studies be a source of
enduring inspiration for present and future generations.”
The Universal House of Justice
November 14, 2025
184. All men have been created to carry
forward an ever-advancing civilization.
The Almighty beareth Me witness:
To act like the beasts of the field is
unworthy of man. Those virtues that
befit his dignity are forbearance, mercy,
compassion and loving-kindness
towards all the peoples and kindreds of
the earth.
—Baha'u'llah
Gleanings from the
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 215
Whoso hath searched the depths of the
oceans that lie hid within these exalted
words, and fathomed their import, can
be said to have discovered a glimmer
of the unspeakable glory with which
this mighty, this sublime, and most holy
Revelation hath been endowed. From
the excellence of so great a Revelation
the honor with which its faithful
followers must needs be invested can
be well imagined. By the righteousness
of the one true God! The very breath
of these souls is in itself richer than all
the treasures of the earth. Happy is the
man that hath attained thereunto, and
woe betide the heedless.
—Baha'u'llah
Gleanings from the
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 10
PREFACE
ARTICLES
Myth or Madness: The (Lost) Joy of Religion
Shahbaz Fatheazam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
A Survey of the Cardinal Maxims
of Islamic Philosophy in the Bahá’í Writings
Vargha Bolodo-Taefi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Understanding Traditional Discourses
JoAnn Borovicka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Which World Are You In?
Ian Kluge
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
The Invocation “Is There Any Remover
of Difficulties Save God…”
Muhammad Afnan trans. Adib Masumian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
The Potent God and the Attracting God:
Metaphysics and its Social Consequences
Moojan Momen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Tablet of Fitnih (Tribulations)
and Its Recipient: Shams-i Jahán
Foad Seddigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
IN MEMORIAM
Manuchehr Derakhshani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255
Ian Kluge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257
PREFACE
Since its inception, ‘Irfán Colloquium, has strived to encourage
Baháʼís to immerse themselves in the ocean of His words, that they
“may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie
hid in its depths”, and in this manner deepen their faith and prepare
themselves for sharing its teachings with their communities. We are
grateful to our authors for having meticulously shared with us those
pearls of wisdom in this collection of articles on topics related to
mystical aspects of the Bahá’í writings.
The “Lights of Irfán Book 21” delves into profound explorations of
Bahá’í beliefs and their intersections with various philosophical and
spiritual discourses. The volume presents an array of scholarly articles
aimed at deepening understanding of the Bahá’í Faith’s principal
teachings and their applicability to contemporary societal issues. Each
article aims to foster a deeper appreciation of the Bahá’í Faith’s rich
theological and philosophical heritage, encouraging readers to consider
how these insights can be applied to enhance personal growth and
societal advancement. The discussions are rooted in a desire to bridge
the gap between ancient wisdom and philosophies, religious traditions
and contemporary challenges, advocating for a world where spiritual
principles inform and elevate public discourse and personal conduct.
We hope these articles assist the readers in their journey through mystical dimensions of reality, and to better equip them in meaningful
conversations on these important existential topics that are often at
the centre of thoughts and beliefs of humanity at large:
Myth or Madness: The (Lost) Joy of Religion
by Shahbaz Fatheazam
This article, a profoundly mystical and poetic essay, addresses the
growing detachment from and scepticism toward religion in modern
society, suggesting that this alienation has led to a loss of joy and fulfilment. Fatheazam argues that the rejuvenation of religious sentiment
and practice as well as understanding the profound meanings of love
ii
Lights of ‘Irfán Book Twenty-One
and spirituality can restore a sense of purpose and happiness in individuals’ lives. The article discusses the historical roles of religion in society
and contrasts these with the present-day marginalization, proposing
that rediscovering the joy in religion could counteract the bleakness
of modern secular life - religion is not just a relic of the past but an
essential part of human understanding, providing meaning beyond
empirical knowledge. The reader may also question the tendency of
contemporary culture to dismiss religion as obsolete while appreciating the ways in which faith has historically guided human progress.
A Survey of the Cardinal Maxims
of Islamic Philosophy in the Bahá’í Writings
by Vargha Bolodo-Taefi
Bolodo-Taefi explores the influence of Islamic thought and intellectual
tradition on the Bahá’í Writings and presents thirty-four cardinal
maxims of Islamic philosophy that are adopted and expounded in
the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Each section
explains the meaning of a maxim, describes its usage by prominent
figures in Islamic intellectual history, and demonstrates its application
in the Writings of the Central Figures of the Bahá’í Faith. In doing so,
we gain a better understanding of
the integration of some of the most profound Islamic philosophical
principles within the Bahá’í teachings, and how these philosophical
maxims have been influential in shaping Islamic thought as well as
their relevance and reinterpretation in the context of Bahá’í scriptures.
Understanding Traditional Discourses
by JoAnn Borovicka
Borovicka investigates the challenges and opportunities in interpreting
traditional religious discourses in the modern world. The author examines historical narratives, particularly the allegorical nature of religious
iii
Preface
stories. The chapter highlights how Bahá’í interpretations align with
modern historical and hermeneutical approaches, suggesting that religious texts should be read with an awareness of their metaphorical and
contextual meanings. She emphasizes the need to understand these
discourses within their historical contexts and explores how they can
be made relevant to contemporary issues. The article advocates for a
balanced approach that respects traditional wisdom while adapting its
teachings to modern circumstances.
Which World Are You In?
by Ian Kluge
The article by the late Ian Kluge engages with philosophical inquiries about the nature of reality, questioning the existence of different
“worlds” such as the material, spiritual, and metaphysical. He discusses
how Bahá’í teachings address these concepts and examine existence of
God. Kluge further argues that human perception of reality is shaped
by philosophical assumptions, and that the Bahá’í worldview inter
alia considers empirical reason and spiritual insight. He also examines
postmodern relativism and defends the idea that objective truth exists
beyond individual subjectivity. The article may challenge readers to
reflect on their perceptions of reality and consider a more integrated
worldview that encompasses both physical and spiritual elements
when reflecting on God’s existence and its implications on our lives.
The Invocation “Is There Any Remover of Difficulties Save God...”
by Muhammad Afnan, translated by Adib Masumian
The article, which was first published by ‘Irfán Colloquium in Persian
in 2006, has now been translated in English and explains the origin of
this invocation in the Bahá’í Faith, discussing its significance in times
of personal and communal hardship. The author examines how this
invocation reflects broader theological themes of divine providence
and human reliance on God.
iv
Lights of ‘Irfán Book Twenty-One
The Potent God and the Attracting God:
Metaphysics and its Social Consequences
by Moojan Momen
The article examines two conceptual frameworks in relation to God
by major Western world religions and by philosophers – attracting
God versus Potent God , and their implications on theological thought
and on humanities’ belief in God and religion, and how it influences
their world view and governance. The “Potent God” represents divine
authority, justice, and law, whereas the “Attracting God” embodies
love, beauty, and personal transformation. Momen argues that societies dominated by a fear-based view of God tend toward authoritarianism, while those embracing a loving God foster inclusivity and moral
progress. Understanding the difference between these frameworks also
has profound implications on our social relationships based on “power
and hierarchy” or “love and mutuality” and on models of governance
in our society.
Tablet of Fitnih (Tribulations) and Its Recipient: Shams-i Jahán
by Foad Seddigh
Seddigh reviews the story and the poems of Princess Sháms-i Jahán – a
grand-daughter of Fátḥ-i-‘Alí Sháh and an aunt of Náṣiri’d-Dín Sháh,
who declared her belief in the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. The article also
examines in depth Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet of Fitnih, which prophesies a
time of great trials and tests for humanity. The author highlights the
esoteric language used in the tablet, discussing its references to cosmic
disturbances (e.g., “the heavens of knowledge will be cleft asunder”
and “resplendent suns will be darkened”). The chapter explores how
Bahá’u’lláh’s warnings about spiritual tests and separations echo earlier religious prophecies, and includes a translation of the Tablet at the
end of the article.
v
Preface
The In Memoriam section in this volume pays tribute to two of
‘Irfán Colloquium’s closest collaborators and ardent supporters: Dr
Manuchehr Derakhshani (1932-2025) who served for nearly 3 decades
at the Bahá’í National Centre Persian Affairs Office and was most
helpful in reviewing many of the articles that ‘Irfán published over
the past 3 decades, and Ian Kluge (1948-2025) who had an uniquely
in-depth knowledge of philosophical traditions and the intellectual
history of religious thought, and enthusiastically participated and contributed to numerous discussions on these topics over many decades.
We shall miss them dearly.
We thank the authors for their diligent research and their patience;
and hope the readers will have the opportunity to reflect on the profoundly mystical concepts shared in many of these articles, which may
enhance their understanding of the purpose of life as they continue
their journey towards drawing closer to that unknowable essence.
All papers published in this book, present the views and understanding of their authors. The texts of the papers are published as provided
by the authors. Their writing styles and scholarly approaches are,
therefore, different.
Rama Ayman
vi
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Papers Presented at the
‘Irfán Colloquia and Seminars
Lights of ‘Irfán
Copyright ©2025, Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund
Papers published in Lights of ‘Irfán represent the views of their authors.
Reproductions from this compilation are permitted provided that the
sources and authors are clearly indicated, with the exception of provisional
translations, which are not to be further distributed.
Lights of ‘Irfán:
Studies in the Principal Bahá’í Beliefs
Papers Presented at the ‘Irfán Colloquia and Seminars
Volume Twenty-One
‘Irfán Colloquia
Bahá’í National Center 1233 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
Phone: (847) 733-3501 á Fax: (847) 733-3527
E-mail: contact@irfancolloquia.org á www.irfancolloquia.org
Sponsored by the Haj Mehdi Arjmand Memorial Fund
General Editor Iraj Ayman
182 B.E. 2025 C.E.
ISBN 978-1-89068-88-4
Design & Layout:
Majid C. Nolley
majidnolley.com
Dedicated to
Dr. Iraj Ayman
Feb. 9, 1928 – Nov. 12, 2025
This is the final volume edited by his hand.
“May the memory of his valued contribution to the field of
education in numerous academic and other settings as well as
his endeavors in the promotion of Bahá’í Studies be a source of
enduring inspiration for present and future generations.”
The Universal House of Justice
November 14, 2025
184. All men have been created to carry
forward an ever-advancing civilization.
The Almighty beareth Me witness:
To act like the beasts of the field is
unworthy of man. Those virtues that
befit his dignity are forbearance, mercy,
compassion and loving-kindness
towards all the peoples and kindreds of
the earth.
—Baha'u'llah
Gleanings from the
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 215
Whoso hath searched the depths of the
oceans that lie hid within these exalted
words, and fathomed their import, can
be said to have discovered a glimmer
of the unspeakable glory with which
this mighty, this sublime, and most holy
Revelation hath been endowed. From
the excellence of so great a Revelation
the honor with which its faithful
followers must needs be invested can
be well imagined. By the righteousness
of the one true God! The very breath
of these souls is in itself richer than all
the treasures of the earth. Happy is the
man that hath attained thereunto, and
woe betide the heedless.
—Baha'u'llah
Gleanings from the
Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 10
PREFACE
ARTICLES
Myth or Madness: The (Lost) Joy of Religion
Shahbaz Fatheazam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
A Survey of the Cardinal Maxims
of Islamic Philosophy in the Bahá’í Writings
Vargha Bolodo-Taefi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Understanding Traditional Discourses
JoAnn Borovicka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Which World Are You In?
Ian Kluge
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
The Invocation “Is There Any Remover
of Difficulties Save God…”
Muhammad Afnan trans. Adib Masumian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
The Potent God and the Attracting God:
Metaphysics and its Social Consequences
Moojan Momen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Tablet of Fitnih (Tribulations)
and Its Recipient: Shams-i Jahán
Foad Seddigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
IN MEMORIAM
Manuchehr Derakhshani . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255
Ian Kluge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257
PREFACE
Since its inception, ‘Irfán Colloquium, has strived to encourage
Baháʼís to immerse themselves in the ocean of His words, that they
“may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie
hid in its depths”, and in this manner deepen their faith and prepare
themselves for sharing its teachings with their communities. We are
grateful to our authors for having meticulously shared with us those
pearls of wisdom in this collection of articles on topics related to
mystical aspects of the Bahá’í writings.
The “Lights of Irfán Book 21” delves into profound explorations of
Bahá’í beliefs and their intersections with various philosophical and
spiritual discourses. The volume presents an array of scholarly articles
aimed at deepening understanding of the Bahá’í Faith’s principal
teachings and their applicability to contemporary societal issues. Each
article aims to foster a deeper appreciation of the Bahá’í Faith’s rich
theological and philosophical heritage, encouraging readers to consider
how these insights can be applied to enhance personal growth and
societal advancement. The discussions are rooted in a desire to bridge
the gap between ancient wisdom and philosophies, religious traditions
and contemporary challenges, advocating for a world where spiritual
principles inform and elevate public discourse and personal conduct.
We hope these articles assist the readers in their journey through mystical dimensions of reality, and to better equip them in meaningful
conversations on these important existential topics that are often at
the centre of thoughts and beliefs of humanity at large:
Myth or Madness: The (Lost) Joy of Religion
by Shahbaz Fatheazam
This article, a profoundly mystical and poetic essay, addresses the
growing detachment from and scepticism toward religion in modern
society, suggesting that this alienation has led to a loss of joy and fulfilment. Fatheazam argues that the rejuvenation of religious sentiment
and practice as well as understanding the profound meanings of love
ii
Lights of ‘Irfán Book Twenty-One
and spirituality can restore a sense of purpose and happiness in individuals’ lives. The article discusses the historical roles of religion in society
and contrasts these with the present-day marginalization, proposing
that rediscovering the joy in religion could counteract the bleakness
of modern secular life - religion is not just a relic of the past but an
essential part of human understanding, providing meaning beyond
empirical knowledge. The reader may also question the tendency of
contemporary culture to dismiss religion as obsolete while appreciating the ways in which faith has historically guided human progress.
A Survey of the Cardinal Maxims
of Islamic Philosophy in the Bahá’í Writings
by Vargha Bolodo-Taefi
Bolodo-Taefi explores the influence of Islamic thought and intellectual
tradition on the Bahá’í Writings and presents thirty-four cardinal
maxims of Islamic philosophy that are adopted and expounded in
the Writings of Bahá’u’lláh, the Báb, and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Each section
explains the meaning of a maxim, describes its usage by prominent
figures in Islamic intellectual history, and demonstrates its application
in the Writings of the Central Figures of the Bahá’í Faith. In doing so,
we gain a better understanding of
the integration of some of the most profound Islamic philosophical
principles within the Bahá’í teachings, and how these philosophical
maxims have been influential in shaping Islamic thought as well as
their relevance and reinterpretation in the context of Bahá’í scriptures.
Understanding Traditional Discourses
by JoAnn Borovicka
Borovicka investigates the challenges and opportunities in interpreting
traditional religious discourses in the modern world. The author examines historical narratives, particularly the allegorical nature of religious
iii
Preface
stories. The chapter highlights how Bahá’í interpretations align with
modern historical and hermeneutical approaches, suggesting that religious texts should be read with an awareness of their metaphorical and
contextual meanings. She emphasizes the need to understand these
discourses within their historical contexts and explores how they can
be made relevant to contemporary issues. The article advocates for a
balanced approach that respects traditional wisdom while adapting its
teachings to modern circumstances.
Which World Are You In?
by Ian Kluge
The article by the late Ian Kluge engages with philosophical inquiries about the nature of reality, questioning the existence of different
“worlds” such as the material, spiritual, and metaphysical. He discusses
how Bahá’í teachings address these concepts and examine existence of
God. Kluge further argues that human perception of reality is shaped
by philosophical assumptions, and that the Bahá’í worldview inter
alia considers empirical reason and spiritual insight. He also examines
postmodern relativism and defends the idea that objective truth exists
beyond individual subjectivity. The article may challenge readers to
reflect on their perceptions of reality and consider a more integrated
worldview that encompasses both physical and spiritual elements
when reflecting on God’s existence and its implications on our lives.
The Invocation “Is There Any Remover of Difficulties Save God...”
by Muhammad Afnan, translated by Adib Masumian
The article, which was first published by ‘Irfán Colloquium in Persian
in 2006, has now been translated in English and explains the origin of
this invocation in the Bahá’í Faith, discussing its significance in times
of personal and communal hardship. The author examines how this
invocation reflects broader theological themes of divine providence
and human reliance on God.
iv
Lights of ‘Irfán Book Twenty-One
The Potent God and the Attracting God:
Metaphysics and its Social Consequences
by Moojan Momen
The article examines two conceptual frameworks in relation to God
by major Western world religions and by philosophers – attracting
God versus Potent God , and their implications on theological thought
and on humanities’ belief in God and religion, and how it influences
their world view and governance. The “Potent God” represents divine
authority, justice, and law, whereas the “Attracting God” embodies
love, beauty, and personal transformation. Momen argues that societies dominated by a fear-based view of God tend toward authoritarianism, while those embracing a loving God foster inclusivity and moral
progress. Understanding the difference between these frameworks also
has profound implications on our social relationships based on “power
and hierarchy” or “love and mutuality” and on models of governance
in our society.
Tablet of Fitnih (Tribulations) and Its Recipient: Shams-i Jahán
by Foad Seddigh
Seddigh reviews the story and the poems of Princess Sháms-i Jahán – a
grand-daughter of Fátḥ-i-‘Alí Sháh and an aunt of Náṣiri’d-Dín Sháh,
who declared her belief in the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. The article also
examines in depth Bahá’u’lláh’s Tablet of Fitnih, which prophesies a
time of great trials and tests for humanity. The author highlights the
esoteric language used in the tablet, discussing its references to cosmic
disturbances (e.g., “the heavens of knowledge will be cleft asunder”
and “resplendent suns will be darkened”). The chapter explores how
Bahá’u’lláh’s warnings about spiritual tests and separations echo earlier religious prophecies, and includes a translation of the Tablet at the
end of the article.
v
Preface
The In Memoriam section in this volume pays tribute to two of
‘Irfán Colloquium’s closest collaborators and ardent supporters: Dr
Manuchehr Derakhshani (1932-2025) who served for nearly 3 decades
at the Bahá’í National Centre Persian Affairs Office and was most
helpful in reviewing many of the articles that ‘Irfán published over
the past 3 decades, and Ian Kluge (1948-2025) who had an uniquely
in-depth knowledge of philosophical traditions and the intellectual
history of religious thought, and enthusiastically participated and contributed to numerous discussions on these topics over many decades.
We shall miss them dearly.
We thank the authors for their diligent research and their patience;
and hope the readers will have the opportunity to reflect on the profoundly mystical concepts shared in many of these articles, which may
enhance their understanding of the purpose of life as they continue
their journey towards drawing closer to that unknowable essence.
All papers published in this book, present the views and understanding of their authors. The texts of the papers are published as provided
by the authors. Their writing styles and scholarly approaches are,
therefore, different.
Rama Ayman
vi
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