“O MY FRIENDS!
Have ye forgotten that true and radiant morn, when in those hallowed and blessed surroundings ye were all gathered in My presence beneath the shade of the tree of life, which is planted in the all-glorious paradise? Awe-struck ye listened as I gave utterance to these three most holy words: O friends! Prefer not your will to Mine, never desire that which I have not desired for you, and approach Me not with lifeless hearts, defiled with worldly desires and cravings. Would ye but sanctify your souls, ye would at this present hour recall that place and those surroundings, and the truth of My utterance should be made evident unto all of you.“
The mystical language of Baha’u’llah’s Persian Hidden Word #19 transcends time and space, drawing readers into a sacred narrative that resonates deep within the soul. Its imagery is captivating: the “true and radiant morn,” the “shade of the tree of life,” and the “all-glorious paradise” where humanity was gathered in divine presence. These elements symbolize an intimate and eternal bond with our Creator—a union of profound love, purpose, and spiritual enlightenment.
Mystical Truths
Baha’u’llah’s words invite us to recall an existence beyond the confines of material life—a primordial connection to the divine that predates our earthly journey. This “radiant morn” alludes to the realm of pre-existence, where souls bask in God’s boundless grace and unity. The “tree of life,” a symbol evoking the idea of divine sustenance and eternal wisdom, provides shade and nourishment in this celestial gathering. It is more than a physical tree; it signifies the sheltering presence of God, the eternal source of truth and guidance.
The utterance of the “three most holy words” reveals profound spiritual principles: submission to divine will, detachment from worldly desires, and purity of heart. These truths guide us toward sanctifying our souls, encouraging us to align our aspirations and actions with divine wisdom. Baha’u’llah emphasizes that earthly cravings and lifeless hearts hinder our spiritual progress—they cloud our ability to perceive the sacred realities embedded within our existence.
The Sacred Place
This “all-glorious paradise” is not merely a physical location but a spiritual state of being—a realm accessible through our communion with the divine. It is akin to the “garden of God” referenced throughout religious traditions, a space where the soul experiences unity, clarity, and serenity. Through spiritual evolution, believers can reclaim their connection to this sacred dimension, as it exists within the inner reality of every soul. It is our true home, the destination toward which all spiritual seekers are drawn.
Evolving Spiritually: Sanctifying Our Souls
Baha’u’llah’s call to “sanctify your souls” presents a roadmap for spiritual growth and transformation. Achieving such a state involves conscious effort and unwavering dedication to refining the self. Here are key steps toward sanctification:
- Submit to Divine Will: Cultivate humility and trust in God’s wisdom, relinquishing personal desires that may conflict with divine purpose.
- Purify the Heart: Engage in prayer, meditation, and reflection to cleanse the soul of negativity and worldly distractions.
- Detach from the Material: Practice detachment by recognizing the transient nature of earthly possessions and ambitions.
- Seek Unity with the Divine: Strengthen the connection with God through acts of service, fostering love and compassion for humanity.
As we continue to evolve spiritually, we are reminded that our souls possess the innate ability to recall the sacred truth of our existence—the radiant morn, the hallowed surroundings, and the divine utterance. This journey is both a rediscovery of what has always been within us and a movement toward the ultimate realization of our spiritual potential.
By embracing the timeless wisdom of Baha’u’llah, we awaken to the memory of our divine origin and purpose. In doing so, we find ourselves guided by the light of spiritual truths, ever drawn toward the “shade of the tree of life” in our own all-glorious paradise. Let us sanctify our souls and answer the divine call, for in this journey lies the fulfillment of our eternal destiny.
the musing geologist 
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