Spiritual qualities.

 

189. The Spiritual qualities found in the Bahá’í Faith are also found in Christianity as-well-as the other great religions of the world: Many spiritual qualities that are part of Christianity are also found in the Bahá’í Faith as-well-as the other great religions of God; which comes as no surprise seeing that all of these religions come from the one same God and all of these religions are part of the one same religion.  Babi Religion: “It behoves each one of you to manifest the attributes of God, and to exemplify by your deeds and words the signs of His righteousness, His power and glory. The very members of your body must bear witness to the loftiness of your purpose, the integrity of your life, the reality of your faith, and the exalted character of your devotion.” The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 91)

     Here are just a few spiritual qualities we can look for that are found in these religions, which is by no means a complete list of all of them. To list all of the spiritual qualities God has to bestow upon mankind would take a lot more space then I have and quite a deal more time then I am prepared devote to this project. So here are just a few of these qualities that I feel are important for us to look at and incorporate into our lives: 1. Steadfastness, 2. Obedience, 3. Selflessness, 4. Charity, 5. Kindness, 6. Piety, 7. Goodness, 8. Trustworthiness, 9. Purity, 10. Righteousness, 11. Humility, 12. Patience, 13. Mercy and Compassion, 14. Love, 15. Love of God, 16. Be forgiving towards one another. 17. Truthfulness 18. Forbearance, 19. Contentment and Resignation, 20. True Reliance on, and Trust in God, in Everything.  

a. Steadfastness,  Judaism: Job 11:15 “For then shalt thou lift up thy face without spot; yea, thou shalt be stedfast, and shalt not fear:”  Christianity: 1 Corinthians 7:37 “Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.”  

 BABI RELIGION: “By the righteousness of the true God, if ye remain steadfast upon this line which standeth upright between the two lines, ye shall, in very truth, quaff the living waters from the Fountain of this wondrous Revelation as proffered by the hand of His Remembrance…” 

          (The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 56) 

BAHA’I FAITH: “Vouchsafe Thy strength, O Almighty One, unto Thy weak creatures, and quicken them who are as dead, that haply they may find Thee, and may be led unto the ocean of Thy guidance, and may remain steadfast in Thy Cause.” 

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 10) 

 CHRISTIANITY: 1 Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of The Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in The Lord.” 1 Peter 5:9 “Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” 

 BABI RELIGION: “Scatter throughout the length and breadth of this land, and, with steadfast feet and sanctified hearts, prepare the way for His coming.” 

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 93) 

BAHA’I FAITH: “Blessed are the steadfastly enduring, they that are patient under ills and hardships, who lament not over anything that befalleth them, and who tread the path of resignation….” 

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 129) 

 ISLAM: 146. “How many of the Prophets fought (in Allah’s, God‘s way), and with them (fought) large bands of godly men? But they never lost heart if they met with disaster in Allah’s way, nor did they weaken (in will) nor give in. And Allah loves those who are firm and steadfast.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3) 

Islam: 200. “O ye who believe! persevere in patience and constancy: vie in such perseverance (steadfastness); strengthen each other; and fear Allah; that ye may prosper.” In steadfastness. 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3) 

Islam: 80. “But those who had been granted (true) knowledge said: ‘Alas for you! the reward of Allah (in the Hereafter) is best for those who believe and work righteousness: but this none shall attain, save those who steadfastly persevere (in good).”’ 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  28) 

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 19. “These and thou art mine, and forth let thine exhilarations flow; bright and sparkling let them hold on their (steadfast) way; for light are thine exhilaration(s), and flying lightly come they here. Victory-giving smiteth Haoma, victory-giving is it worshiped; with this Gathic word we praise it.” 

      (Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 10) 

 Zoroastrianism: 17. “Ormazd (Ahura Mazda, God) the Lord! the increaser of mankind, of the species of mankind, of all species, and of all good ones! May he cause Intelligence, steadfastness, and goodness, unto me (who am) one of the good Mazdayasnians. So be it!” 

(The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1) 

 HINDUISM: “Clasp Me with heart and mind! so shalt thou dwell Surely with Me on high. But if thy thought Droops from such height; if thou be’st weak to set Body and soul upon Me constantly, Despair not! give Me lower service! I seek To reach Me, worshiping with steadfast will; And, if thou canst not worship steadfastly, Work for Me, toil in works pleasing to Me!” 

          (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 12) 

 Hinduism: “Good is the steadfastness whereby a man Masters his beats of heart, his very breath Of life, the action of his senses; fixed In never-shaken faith and piety:” 

      (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18) 

 BUDDHISM: “Just as a rock of one solid mass remains unshaken by the wind, even so, neither forms, nor sounds, nor odors, nor tastes, nor contacts of any kind, neither the desired, nor the undesired, can cause such an one to waver. Steadfast is his mind, gained is deliverance.” 

      ((The Eightfold Path), Buddha, the Word (The Eightfold Path)) 

 Buddhism: 7. “He whose senses are subdued, Like steeds well-trained by a charioteer; He who is free from pride and corruption – Such a steadfast one even the gods hold dear.” 

      (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 3 (tr. J. Richards)) 

 SABEANISM: “Steadfast and vigorous souls shine in splendour in the great Place of Light and the Everlasting Abode.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 56) 

Sabeanism: “In great radiance am I immersed and in steadfast light am I established. Its fastening is water, its wreath is light, its weapon the living word, and its seal the chosen, pure one. Every man who openeth it and readeth therein shall live, shall be whole and his name will be set up in the House of Life, in the name of The Great Sublime Life (Haiyi, God) from worlds (of light).” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 63) 

Sabeanism: “Any man who is not steadfast, Whose mind is turned against me, Whose mind is turned from me, Great and not small will be his hurt.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 89) 

Sabeanism: “For He will come and will heal me, Will lift me up, raise me and confirm me Will direct my eyes to the Light, And my feet to steadfastness My mouth to wisdom and my heart to vigilance.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 117)

Sabeanism: “Let there be strength and constancy for all lovers of Thy name!” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 410)    

b. Obedience,  Judaism: Deuteronomy 13:4 “Ye shall walk after The LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.” Deuteronomy 27:10 “Thou shalt therefore obey the voice of The LORD thy God, and do His commandments and His statutes, which I command thee this day.”  Christianity: Romans 5:19 “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.” 

BAHA’I FAITH: “But this sect (The Bahá’í Faith) are steadfast in their own path and firmly established in conduct and faith; they are pious, devoted, tenacious, and consistent in such sort that they freely lay down their lives, and, after their own way, seek to please God; they are strenuous in effort and earnest in endeavor; they are the essence of obedience and most patient in hardship and trouble; they sacrifice their existence and raise no complaint or cry; what they utter is in truth the secret longing of the heart….” 

          (Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, A Traveller’s Narrative, p. 87) 

 CHRISTIANITY: 2 Corinthians 10:3 “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:” 2 Corinthians 10:4 “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds”2 Corinthians 10:5 “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;” 2 Corinthians 10:6 “And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.” 2 Corinthians 10:7 “Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ’s, even so are we Christ’s.” 

BAHA’I FAITH: “To be a real Christian is to be a servant in His Cause and Kingdom, to go forth under His banner of peace and love toward all mankind, to be self-sacrificing and obedient, to become quickened by the breaths of the Holy Spirit, to be mirrors reflecting the radiance of the divinity of Christ, to be fruitful trees in the garden of His planting, to refresh the world by the water of life of His teachings — in all things to be like Him and filled with the spirit of His love.” 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 6) 

 BABI RELIGION: “VERILY I am Thy servant, O my God, and Thy poor one and Thy suppliant and Thy wretched creature. I have arrived at Thy gate, seeking Thy shelter. I have found no contentment save in Thy love, no exultation except in Thy remembrance, no eagerness but in obedience to Thee, no joy save in Thy nearness, and no tranquillity except in reunion with Thee, notwithstanding that I am conscious that all created things are debarred from Thy sublime Essence and the entire creation is denied access to Thine inmost Being.” 

          (The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 174) 

 ISLAM: 132. “Obey Allah (God) and the Messenger; that ye may obtain mercy.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3) 

Islam: 59. “O ye who believe! obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and those charged with authority among you. If ye differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if ye do believe in Allah and the Last Day: that is best, and most suitable for final determination.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   4) 

Islam: 16. “If ye show obedience, Allah will grant you a goodly reward, but if ye turn back as ye did before, He will punish you with a grievous Penalty.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  48) 

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 16. “To Obedience am I given, and to deaf disobedience, not; to the saint do I belong, and to the wicked, not; and so from this on till the ending shall be the spirits’ parting.” 

          (Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 10) 

 Zoroastrianism: 16. “This I ask Thee, tell me truly, Ahura (God). Who is victorious to protect by thy doctrine (all) that are? By vision assure me how to set up the judge that heals the world. Then let him have Obedience coming with Good Thought unto every man whom thou desirest, O Mazda (God).” 

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 44) 

 Zoroastrianism: 5. “I will speak of that which (he), the Holiest declared to me as the word that is best for mortals to obey; while he said: ‘they who for my sake render him obedience, shall all attain unto Welfare and Immortality by the actions of the Good Spirit’ – (He) Mazda Ahura.” 

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 45) 

 HINDUISM: 9. “For that man who obeys the law prescribed in the revealed texts and in the sacred tradition, gains fame in this (world) and after death unsurpassable bliss.” 

          (Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 2) 

 Hinduism: 175. “Let him always delight in truthfulness, (and obedience to) the sacred law, conduct worthy of an Aryan, and purity.” 

          (Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 4) 

 Hinduism: 92. “Contentment, forgiveness, self-control, abstention from unrighteously appropriating anything, (obedience to the rules of) purification, coercion of the organs, wisdom, knowledge (of the supreme Soul), truthfulness, and abstention from anger, (form) the tenfold law.” 

          (Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 6) 

 BUDDHISM: 22. “Lax behaviour, broken observances and dubious chastity – these are of no great benefit. If it ought to be done, then do it; apply yourself to it strenuously (in obedience to the Dharma). A lax man of religion just spreads even more dust.” 

          (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards)) 

 Buddhism: 22. “As a blade of grass wrongly handled cuts the hand, so also asceticism wrongly practiced leads to hell. An act carelessly performed, a broken vow, unwilling obedience to discipline — – all these bring no great reward. If anything is to be done, let one do it vigorously. A careless recluse only bespatters oneself with the dust of desires.” 

          (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards)) 

 SABEANISM: “Do not slumber and sleep, and forget not what your lord commanded you.” Obedience to the ordinances of Haiyi, God is a must for anybody living the holy life. (Sabeanism, Instruction of Adam)

c. Selflessness,  Christianity: John 5:30 “I can of mine own self do nothing….. I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.” John 6:38 “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of Him that sent me.” Ephesians 6:6 “Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;” Ephesians 6:7 “With good will doing service, as to The Lord, and not to men:”  Judaism: Psalms 143:8 “Cause me to hear Thy loving kindness in the morning; for in Thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto Thee.” 143:9 “Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: I flee unto Thee to hide me.” 143:10 “Teach me to do Thy will; for Thou art my God: Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” 143:11 “Quicken me, O LORD, for Thy name’s sake: for Thy righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.”  

BAHA’I FAITH: “Lord! Give me to drink from the chalice of selflessness; with its robe clothe me, and in its ocean immerse me. Make me as dust in the pathway of Thy loved ones, and grant that I may offer up my soul for the earth ennobled by the footsteps of Thy chosen ones in Thy path, O Lord of Glory in the Highest.” 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha) 

 BABI RELIGION: “All individuals were called upon to work for their own spiritual development, such development came not from any esoteric knowledge or experience, but from the purity with which they turned to God, the selflessness and dedication with which they served God‘s Cause, and the extent to which they modeled their lives on the divinely given ethical imperatives.” 

          (Peter Smith, The Babi & Baha’i Religions, p. 154) 

 ISLAM: 112. “Whoever submits his whole self to Allah (God) and is a doer of good, he will get his reward with his Lord; on such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2) 

Islam: 125. “Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to Allah, does good, and follows the way of Abraham the true in faith? For Allah did take Abraham for a friend.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   4) 

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 6. “As in this (house) the Bountiful Immortals seek for good Yasnas and good praises from the blessed Sraosha (who governs here), and as they seek for (one) good sacrifice and act of homage (more especially their own) which is a good offering (to them) for (our) salvation, and a good offering in praise, together with a long continued offering of the entire self, (7) let not then (their) brilliant glory ever desert this house, nor the bright abundance, nor an illustrious offspring legitimately born, nor that long continued companionship which is the furtherance of that good blessedness which teaches concerning glory.” 

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 60)

 Zoroastrianism: “We come, rejoice, and submit”  

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta Fragments) 

 HINDUISM: “Make thine acts Thy piety, casting all self aside.” 

          (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 2) 

 Hinduism: “Do all thou dost for Me! Renounce for Me! Sacrifice heart and mind and will to Me! Live in the faith of Me! In faith of Me All dangers thou shalt vanquish, by My grace;”

 Hinduism: “There is the rightful doer. He who acts Free from self-seeking, humble, resolute, Steadfast, in good or evil hap the same, Content to do aright- he truly acts.” 

          (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18) 

 BUDDHISM: 24. “Weeds are the blight of fields. Self-seeking is the blight of mankind. Consequently offerings to those free from self-seeking are of great fruit.” 

          (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards)) 

 Buddhism: 7. “The one who is free from gullibility, who knows the Uncreated, who has severed all ties, removed all temptations, renounced all desires, (selfless) is the greatest of people.” 

          (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards)) 

 Buddhism: “The Bodhisattva must be free from all presuppositions and attachments to things, ideas and selfness.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “And Thou hast spoken to us with Thy Word And hast commanded us with Thy commandment ‘Be My glory and I will be your Glory. Be my light and I will be your Light. And my name shall be in your mouths And I will be with you.’” And we shall selflessly submit to Thy will and thy command. “In the twinkling of an eye and at a turn of the wheels, (Let) our petition, our prayer and our submission Rise up before Thee Manda d-Hiia (Haiyi, God)!” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75) 

d. Charity,  Christianity: 1 Corinthians 13:2 “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. 

BAHA’I FAITH: “O people of the world, ye are all the fruit of one tree and the leaves of one branch. Walk with perfect charity, concord, affection, and agreement.” 

          (Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, A Traveller’s Narrative, p. 42) 

 CHRISTIANITY: 1 Corinthians 13:4 “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,” 1 Corinthians 16:14 “Let all your things be done with charity. 1 Timothy 1:5 “Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:” 

BAHA’I FAITH: “Charity is pleasing and praiseworthy in the sight of God and is regarded as a prince among goodly deeds.” 

          (Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 71) 

 BABI RELIGION: “Broadly regarded, Bábísm may be defined as a creed of charity, and almost of common humanity. Brotherly love, kindness to children, courtesy combined with dignity, sociability, hospitality, freedom from bigotry, friendliness even to Christians, are included in its tenets.”  

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 600) 

 JUDAISM: Deuteronomy 15:7 “If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which The LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother: 15:8 But thou shalt open thine hand wide unto him, and shalt surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he wanteth.” Deuteronomy 15:11 “For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.”  Christianity: 1 Peter 4:8 “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”  

BAHA’I FAITH: “This is the Day whereon the Ocean of God‘s mercy hath been manifested unto men, the Day in which the Day Star of His loving-kindness hath shed its radiance upon them, the Day in which the clouds of His bountiful favor have overshadowed the whole of mankind. Now is the time to cheer and refresh the down-cast through the invigorating breeze of love and fellowship, and the living waters of friendliness and charity.” 

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 7) 

 BABI RELIGION: “I am bidden by Him to instill into men’s hearts the ennobling principles of charity and love.” 

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 553) 

 ISLAM: Letter 69. “Remember that among the faithful Muslims the best is he who gives out alms and charities on his on behalf and on behalf of his family and his property. Whatever you spend in this way is something that you send in advance for your life after death. You will then receive the reward of such deeds. And whatever you leave here will be used by others and you will get no benefit out of it.” 

          (Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh) 

Islam: 43. “Be steadfast in prayer; practice regular charity; and bow down your heads with those who bow down (in worship).” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2) 

Islam: 162. “But those among them who are well-grounded in knowledge, and the believers, believe in what hath been revealed to thee; and (especially) those who establish regular prayer and practice regular charity and believe in Allah (God) and in the Last Day: to them shall We soon give a great reward.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   4) 

Islam: 31. “Speak to My servants who have believed, that they may establish regular prayers, and spend (in charity) out of the Sustenance We have given them, secretly and openly, before the coming of a Day in which there will be neither mutual bargaining, nor befriending.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  14)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 36. “The Law of Mazda (God) will not deliver thee unto pain. Thou art entreated (for charity) by the whole of the living world, and she is ever standing at thy door in the person of thy brethren in the faith beggars are ever standing at the door of the stranger, amongst those who beg for bread.” 

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta Fragments) 

 Zoroastrianism: 7. “We sacrifice unto Asha-Vahishta, the fairest, the Amesha-Spenta; we sacrifice unto the much-desired Airyaman; we sacrifice unto the instrument made by Mazda; we sacrifice unto the good Saoka, with eyes of love, made by Mazda and holy. We sacrifice unto Khshathra-Vairya; we sacrifice unto the metals; we sacrifice unto Mercy and Charity.” 

(The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1) 

 HINDUISM: “Krishna. Fearlessness, singleness of soul, the will Always to strive for wisdom; opened hand And governed appetites; and piety, And love of lonely study; humbleness, Uprightness, heed to injure naught which lives, Truthfulness, slowness unto wrath, a mind That lightly letteth go what others prize; And equanimity, and charity Which spieth no man’s faults; and tenderness Towards all that suffer; a contented heart, Fluttered by no desires; a bearing mild, Modest, and grave, with manhood nobly mixed, With patience, fortitude, and purity; An unrevengeful spirit, never given To rate itself too high;- such be the signs, O Indian Prince! of him whose feet are set On that fair path which leads to heavenly birth!” 

          (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 16) 

 Hinduism: 226. “Let him, without tiring, always offer sacrifices and perform works of charity with faith; for offerings and charitable works made with faith and with lawfully-earned money, (procure) endless rewards.” 

          (Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 4) 

 Hinduism: 1. “There are three branches of the law. Sacrifice, study, and charity are the first.” 

          (Hindu, Upanishads vol. 1, Khandogya-Upanishad Part 1) 

 BUDDHISM: “One should cherish ideals of charity, good behavior, patience, zeal, thoughtfulness and wisdom. Even in the worldly life the practice of these virtues will bring rewards of happiness and success.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 Buddhism: “The Awakening of Faith Scripture teaches how disciples should practice charity. It says: ‘If persons should come to them and ask for something, they should as far as their means allow, supply it ungrudgingly and thus make them happy. If they see people threatened with danger, they should try every means for rescuing them and restore them to a feeling of safety. If people come to them desiring instruction in the Dharma, they should, as far as they are acquainted with it and according to their discretion, deliver discourses upon religious themes. And when they are performing these acts of charity, let them not cherish any desire for fame or advantage, nor covet any earthly reward. Thinking only of the benefits and blessings that are to be mutually shared, let them aspire for the most excellent, the most perfect wisdom.”’ “An enlightened disciple in his acts of charity, ought to act spontaneously, uninfluenced by such things as form, sound, taste, odor, touch, discrimination, and favoritism. It is imperative that an enlightened disciple, in the exercise of charity, should act independent of phenomena. And why? Because, acting without regard to illusive forms of phenomena, he will realize in the exercise of charity a merit inestimable and immeasurable.” (Buddha, Diamond Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “Be careful; make enquiry, display kindness, show compassion (Be giving).” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 74)

Sabeanism: “To each according to the works of his hands It is awarded.” “Every man who toiled And was long-suffering shall come and take with both hands, But he who did not toil nor endure, Standeth empty in the House of Dues.” “He will seek but will not find, And ask, but naught will be given him, Because he had in his hand and gave not,” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 123) 

e. Kindness,  Christianity: Ephesians 4:32 “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” 1 Corinthians 13:4 “Charity suffereth long, and is kind;” 

BAHA’I FAITH: “Enkindle with all your might in every meeting the light of the love of God, gladden and cheer every heart with the utmost loving-kindness, show forth your love to the strangers just as you show forth to your relations.” 

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith – Abdu’l-Baha Section, p. 353) 

 CHRISTIANITY: Colossians 3:12 “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” 2 Corinthians 6:3 “Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed:” 6:4 “But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,” 6:5 “In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watching, in fasting;” 6:6 “By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,” 6:7 “By the word of truth, by the power of God,” 6:11 “O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.”  Judaism: Deuteronomy 10:17 “For The LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:” 10:18 He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.” 1 Kings 20:14 “And thou shalt not only while yet I live shew me the kindness of The LORD, that I die not:” 20:15 “But also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever:” Proverbs 19:20 “Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.” “There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of The LORD, that shall stand.” 19:22 “The desire of a man is his kindness:” Zechariah 7:8 “And the word of The LORD came unto Zechariah, saying,” 7:9 “Thus speaketh The LORD of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and shew mercy and compassions (and kindness) every man to his brother:” 7:10 “And oppress not the widow, nor the fatherless, the stranger, nor the poor; and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart.” (be filled with kindness for your fellow man).

BAHA’I FAITH: “Do not be content with showing friendship in words alone, let your heart burn with loving kindness for all who may cross your path.” 

          (Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 15) 

 BABI RELIGION: “Broadly regarded, Bábísm may be defined as a creed of charity, and almost of common humanity. Brotherly love, kindness to children, courtesy combined with dignity, sociability, hospitality, freedom from bigotry, friendliness even to Christians, are included in its tenets.”  

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 600) 

 ISLAM: 263. “Kind words and the covering of faults are better than charity followed by injury. Allah (God) is free of all wants, and He is Most Forbearing.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2) 

Islam: 5. “To those weak of understanding make not over your property, which Allah hath made a means of support for you, but feed and clothe them therewith, and speak to them words of kindness and justice.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   4) 

Islam: 15. “We have enjoined on man Kindness to his parents: in pain did his mother bear him, and in pain did she give him birth. The carrying of the (child) to his weaning is (a period of) thirty months. At length, when he reaches the age of full strength and attains forty years, he says, ‘O my Lord! grant me that I may be grateful for Thy favor which Thou hast bestowed upon me, and upon both my parents, and that I may work righteousness such as Thou mayest approve; and be gracious to me in my issue. Truly have I turned to Thee and truly do I bow (to Thee) in Islam.”’

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  46) 

Islam: 13. “(Kindness, It is) freeing the bondman; Or the giving of food in a day of privation To the orphan with claims of relationship, Or to the indigent (down) in the dust. Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  90) 

  ZOROASTRIANISM: “We worship the good, strong, beneficent Fravashis of the faithful; liberal, valiant, and full of strength, not to be seized by thought, welfare-giving, kind, and health-giving, following with Ashi’s remedies, as far as the earth extends, as the rivers stretch, as the sun rises.” 

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1) 

 Zoroastrianism: 34. “O Maker of the material world, thou Holy one! Who is the fifth that rejoices the Earth with greatest joy? Ahura Mazda (God) answered: ‘It is he who kindly and piously gives The Asho-dad or alms to one of the faithful who tills the earth, O Spitama Zarathushtra!”’

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad) 

 Zoroastrianism: 37. “When a man unasked, kindly and piously, gives to one of the faithful something, be it ever so little, of the riches he has treasured up.” (good comes of it). 

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad) 

 HINDUISM: 3. “Whatever is given should be given with faith, not without faith,-with joy, with modesty, with fear, with kindness.”  

          (Hindu, Upanishads vol. 2, Taittiriyaka-Upanishad) 

 Hinduism: 15. “He who with grateful food shows kindness in his house, an offerer to the living, is the type of heaven.” 21. “May we rest ever in the loving kindness, in the auspicious grace of him the Holy.” 

          (Hindu, Vedas, Rig Veda – Books 1 and 3) 

 Hinduism: “May your most loving favour still attend us. May even what we have done delight the Maruts, the blameless Ones, the bright, the purifying. Further us, O ye Holy, with your kindness: advance us mightily that we may prosper.” “With all your loving kindness, Sages, come to us.” 

          (Hindu, Vedas, Rig Veda – Books 7 and 8) 

 BUDDHISM: 25. “The bhikkhu who abides in Loving-kindness, And who is pleased with the Buddha’s teaching, Shall attain to the Peaceful State, The happy stilling of conditioned things.” 

          (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 3 (tr. J. Richards)) 

 Buddhism: “Practice kindness and compassion on all alike with no discrimination what-so-ever.” “Even in one’s speech and especially in one’s teachings one must practice kindness, for, no teaching that is unkind can be the teaching of the Buddha. Unkindness is the executioner of the life of wisdom. (Buddha, Surangama Sutra) 

 Buddhism: “Persevere assiduously (diligently) in the practice of boundless kindness,” (Buddha, Middle Discourses) 

 SABEANISM: “And we have arranged (all things) according to Thy loving-kindness from beginning to end.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 30) 

Sabeanism: “Be careful; make enquiry, display kindness, show compassion.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 74) 

f. Piety,  Christianity: 1 Timothy 5:4 “But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.”  Judaism: Numbers 15:40 “Remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy (pious) unto your God.” Exodus 22:31 “And ye shall be holy (pious) men unto Me:” 

BAHA’I FAITH: “All praise be to the one true God — exalted be His glory — inasmuch as He hath, through the Pen of the Most High, unlocked the doors of men’s hearts. Every verse which this Pen hath revealed is a bright and shining portal that discloseth the glories of a saintly and pious life, of pure and stainless deeds.”  

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 96) 

 BABI RELIGION: “If, however, ye observe piety in your Faith, God will surely nourish you from the treasuries of His heavenly grace.” 

          (The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 127) 

 ISLAM: 2. “Help ye one another in righteousness and piety, but help ye not one another in sin and rancor: fear Allah (God):” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   5) 

Islam: 105. “Set thy face towards Religion with true piety, and never in anywise be of the Unbelievers;” “Nor call on any, other than Allah — such will neither profit thee nor hurt thee: if thou dost, Behold! thou shalt certainly be of those who do wrong.” 

          (The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  10)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: The man of understanding has instructed (people) to cling to action of this Good Thought, and to the Holy Piety, creator, comrade of Right — wise that he is, and to all hope, O Ahura (God), that are in thy Dominion, O Mazda (God).” 11. “And both thy (gifts) shall be for sustenance, even nectar and ambrosia. Piety linked with Right shall advance the Dominion of Good Thought, its permanence and power.” 

          (Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 34) 

 Zoroastrianism: 16. “And Zarathushtra himself, O Ahura, chooses each one of thy holiest Spirit, O Mazda. May Right be embodied full of life and strength! May Piety abide in the Dominion bright as the sun! May Good Thought give destiny to men according to their works!” 

          (The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 43) 

 HINDUISM: “Make thine acts thy piety, casting all self aside,” 

          (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 2) 

 Hinduism: “Good is the steadfastness whereby a man Masters his beats of heart, his very breath Of life, the action of his senses; fixed In never-shaken faith and piety:” 

          (Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18) 

 BUDDHISM: 26. “It is by pious behaviour that a man is called a man of religion, and by casting out blemishes one is called one gone forth.” 

          (Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards)) 

  SABEANISM: “Piety will smoothen your path.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 67) 

 BABI RELIGION: “Observe piety in your Faith, observe piety and virtue…” 

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, pp. 129 and 149) 

g. Goodness,  Judaism: 2 Chronicles 6:41 “…..let thy saints rejoice in goodness.”  Christianity: Galatians 5:22 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,” Baha’i Faith: “May you, one and all, increase daily in spirituality, may you be strengthened in all goodness, may you be helped more and more by the Divine consolation, be made free by the Holy Spirit of God, and may the power of the Heavenly Kingdom live and work among you.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 112)

 CHRISTIANITY: Ephesians 5:9 “For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth.”   Judaism: Psalms 125:4 “Do good, O LORD, unto those that be good, and to them that are upright in their hearts.”

 BABI RELIGION: “He who knows me is accompanied with all good, he who rejects me is pursued by evil.”

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 248)

BAHA’I FAITH: “It is Our wish and desire that every one of you may become a source of all goodness unto men, and an example of uprightness to mankind.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 315)

 ISLAM: 112. “Whoever submits his whole self to Allah (God) and is a doer of good, he will get his reward with his Lord; on such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 22. “Whoever submits his whole self to Allah, and is a doer of good, has grasped indeed the most trustworthy hand-hold: and with Allah rests the End and Decision of (all) affairs.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  31)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 4. “And these we would declare in order that we may attain unto that speech which is uttered with (true) religious zeal, or that we may be as prophets of the provinces, that we may succor him who lifts his voice (for Mazda, God), that we may be as prophets who smite with victory, the befriended of Ahura Mazda, and persons the most useful to Him, holy men (indeed) who think good thoughts, and speak good words, and do good deeds.” 5. “That he may approach us with the Good Mind, and that (our souls) may advance in good, let it thus come; yea, ‘how may my soul advance in good? let it thus advance.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 70)

 Zoroastrianism: 27. “O thou, my perishable body, do good deeds!”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta Fragments)

 HINDUISM: 26. “Goodness is declared (to have the form of) knowledge, Darkness (of) ignorance, Activity (of) love and hatred; such is the nature of these (three) which is (all) pervading and clings to everything created.” 40. “Those endowed with Goodness reach the state of gods, those endowed with Activity the state of men, and those endowed with Darkness ever sink to the condition of beasts; that is the threefold course of transmigrations.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 12)

 Hinduism: 31. “The study of the Vedas, austerity, (the pursuit of) knowledge, purity, control over the organs, the performance of meritorious acts and meditation on the Soul, (are) the marks of the quality of Goodness.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 12)

 BUDDHISM: “One should cherish ideals of charity, good behavior, patience, zeal, thoughtfulness and wisdom. Even in the worldly life the practice of these virtues will bring rewards of happiness and success.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 Buddhism: 1. “Here and beyond he is glad. The doer of good is glad both ways. He is glad and rejoices to see his own good deeds.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “Thus, by keeping themselves away from all discriminations and false reasonings which are also of the mind itself, by ever seeking to see things truly (yathabhutam), and by planting roots of goodness in Buddha-lands that know no limits made by differentiations.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “Ye are set up and raised up into the Place of the Good. 29. Good is the good for the good. 30 we have acted (according to) the goodness of The Great (Life, Haiyi, God). 30 Praised are ye four beings, sons of Perfection, who go to meet the good;” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 71)

Sabeanism: “Fragrant is the perfume of the trees with the perfume of Manda-d-Hiia (Savior God) which pervadeth them. [here recite ‘Blessed and praised be Life’ of Shem son of Noah, and ‘Good is good for the good.]’” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 100)

h. Trustworthiness,  Judaism: Deuteronomy 23:23 “That which is gone out of thy lips thou shalt keep and perform;” Numbers 32:24 “do that which hath proceeded out of your mouth.” Proverbs 8:6 “Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.” Proverbs 8:7 “For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.” Proverbs 8:8 “All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing forward or perverse in them.’  Christianity: John 10:37 “If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.” James 2:12 “So speak ye, and so do,” To be trustworthy is to do that which you say you are going to do; be honest with your fellow man.

BAHA’I FAITH: “Cling ye to the hem of virtue, and hold fast to the cord of trustworthiness and piety. Concern yourselves with the things that benefit mankind, and not with your corrupt and selfish desires.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 29)

 JUDAISM: Zechariah 8: 16 “These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:”  Christianity: Acts 26:25 “…..speak forth the words of truth and soberness.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “O people of God! Adorn your temples with the adornment of trustworthiness and piety.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 135)

 CHRISTIANITY: Ephesians 4:25 “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.” 1 Timothy 2:7  “Where unto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.” 1 John 2:5 “But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Be discerning, then, and speak ye the truth, the very truth, if ye claim to be honest and high-minded.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 258)

 ISLAM: 44. “Do ye enjoin right conduct on the people, and forget (to practice it) yourselves, and yet ye study the Scripture? Will ye not understand?”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 2. “O ye who believe! Why say ye that which ye do not?” “Grievously odious is it in the sight of Allah (God) that ye say that which ye do not.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  61)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 6. “To him shall the best befall, who, as one that knows, speaks to me Right’s truthful word of Welfare and of Immortality; even the Dominion of Mazda (God) which Good Thought shall increase for him.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 31)

 Zoroastrianism: 6. “We worship the truthfully spoken word; we worship the truthfully spoken sayings,”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 HINDUISM: 2.36 “When one is firmly established in speaking truth, the fruits of action become subservient to him.” 2.37 “All jewels approach him who is confirmed in honesty.”

(Hindu, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali)

 Hinduism: 256. “All things (have their nature) determined by speech; speech is their root, and from speech they proceed; but he who is dishonest with respect to speech, is dishonest in everything.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu 4)

 BUDDHISM: 15. “A trustworthy friend is the supreme relation.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 1. “Even if the thoughtless can recite many of the scriptures, if they do not act accordingly, they are not living the holy life,”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 4. “Like a fine flower, beautiful to look at but without scent, fine words are fruitless in a man who does not act in accordance with them.” But “Like a fine flower, beautiful to look at and scented too, fine words bear fruit in a man who acts well in accordance with them.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 12. “As he instructs others He should himself act.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 3 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “I strive with a pious and believing heart for the love of precious Truth” (and) perform the works Of right-dealing (trustworthy) Man.” “For my heart hath testified to the First Life.” “Behold me, who have sought purification before Thee! Look on me, my deeds, I am Thy servant and Thy child. Now I humble myself… to Thy name, for I have been true to thy name, and speak (it) in my heart and talk (of it) in my mind. And I subdue my form and my loins,” I stay away from love of self and pride. “I shall be pure in all my words (thoughts); and life.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 1, 77, 92 and 410)

Sabeanism: “Thy truth, we have confidence.” “victorious are the words of truth which issue from Thy mouth, and victorious (and trustworthy) are all Thy deeds. And Life is victorious!” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 51 and 76)

 BABI RELIGION: “He characterized as an emphasis on compassion, mercy, association with all peoples, trustworthiness towards all men, and the unification of mankind.”

(Peter Smith, The Babi & Baha’i Religions, p. 82)

 Babi Religion: “These ethics taught by a young man (The Bab) at an age when passions were intense, deeply impressed an audience, religious to the point of fanaticism, above all when the words of the preacher were in perfect harmony with his conduct. By the uprightness of his life the young Siyyid served as an example to those about him.”

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 158)

BAHA’I FAITH: “The fourth Taraz concerneth trustworthiness. Verily it is the door of security for all that dwell on earth and a token of glory on the part of the All-Merciful. He who partaketh thereof hath indeed partaken of the treasures of wealth and prosperity. Trustworthiness is the greatest portal leading unto the tranquility and security of the people. In truth the stability of every affair hath depended and doth depend upon it. All the domains of power, of grandeur and of wealth are illumined by its light.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 37)

i. Purity,  Christianity: 1 Timothy 4:12 “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”  Judaism: Psalms 24:3 “Who shall ascend into the hill of The LORD? or who shall stand in His holy place?” 24:4 “hath clean hands, and a pure heart who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.”  Christianity: 1 Peter 1:22 “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:”

BAHA’I FAITH: “O saints of God! at the end of Our discourse We enjoin on you once again chastity, faithfulness, godliness, sincerity, and purity.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, A Traveller’s Narrative, p. 48)

 BABI RELIGION: “Such must be the purity of your character and the degree of your renunciation, that the people of the earth may through you recognize and be drawn closer to the heavenly Father who is the Source of purity and grace. For none has seen the Father who is in heaven. You who are His spiritual children must by your deeds exemplify His virtues, and witness to His glory.”

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 92)

 ISLAM: 222. “Allah (God) loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 108. “Never stand thou forth therein. There is a mosque whose foundation was laid from the first day on piety; it is more worthy of thy standing forth (for prayer) therein. In it are men who love to be purified; and Allah loveth those who make themselves pure.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   9)

Islam: “Right graciously did her Lord accept her: He made her grow in purity,” “To Him mount up (all) Words of Purity: it is He Who exalts each Deed of Righteousness.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 3 and 35)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 18. “Purity is for man, next to life, the, greatest good, that purity, O Zarathushtra, that is in the Religion of Mazda (God) for him who cleanses his own self with good thoughts, words, and deeds.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad)

 Zoroastrianism: 19. “Make thy own self pure, O righteous man! any one in the world here below can win purity for his own self, namely, when he cleanses his own self with good thoughts, words, and deeds.”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad)

 Zoroastrianism: “Discipline means purity of thought, purity of words and purity of deeds.” “Mazda is the upholder of rectitude. The more virtuous a man is the nearer he comes to Mazda, the source of perpetual delight.” (ZOROASTER, Hymns of Atharvan p. 580)

 HINDUISM: “Humbleness, truthfulness, and harmlessness, Patience and honour, reverence for the wise. Purity, constancy, control of self, Contempt of sense-delights, self-sacrifice, Perception of the certitude of ill In birth, death, age, disease, suffering, and sin; Detachment, lightly holding unto home, Children, and wife, and all that bindeth men; An ever-tranquil heart in fortunes good And fortunes evil, with a will set firm To worship Me- Me only! ceasing not; Loving all solitude, and shunning noise Of foolish crowds; endeavours resolute To reach perception of the Utmost Soul, And grace to understand what gain it were So to attain,- this is true Wisdom, Prince! And what is otherwise is ignorance!”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 13)

 Hinduism: “Krishna. Fearlessness, singleness of soul, the will Always to strive for wisdom; opened hand And governed appetites; and piety, And love of lonely study; humbleness, Uprightness, heed to injure naught which lives, Truthfulness, slowness unto wrath, a mind That lightly letteth go what others prize; And equanimity, and charity Which spieth no man’s faults; and tenderness Towards all that suffer; a contented heart, Fluttered by no desires; a bearing mild, Modest, and grave, with manhood nobly mixed, With patience, fortitude, and purity; An unrevengeful spirit, never given To rate itself too high;- such be the signs,

O Indian Prince! of him whose feet are set On that fair path which leads to heavenly birth!”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 15)

 BUDDHISM: 18. “Life is easy enough for the shameless, the crow-hero type of man, offensive, swaggering, impudent and depraved. But it is hard for the man of conscience, always striving after purity, alert, reserved, pure of behaviour and discerning.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 12. “By oneself is wrong done; by oneself one suffers; by oneself is wrong left undone; by oneself is one purified. Purity and impurity come from oneself; no one can purify another.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “The purification of the evil out-flowings of the mind are at best slow and gradual, requiring both zeal and patience.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “Be pure in all.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 1)

Sabeanism: “In purity shalt thou rise to the Place of Light.” “On the light of Ether do I stand, I stand for the Great Light with its purities.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 91 and 113)

 BABI RELIGION: “KNOW thou that in the Bayan purification is regarded as the most acceptable means for attaining nearness unto God and as the most meritorious of all deeds. Thus purge thou thine ear that thou mayest hear no mention besides God, and purge thine eye that it behold naught except God, and thy conscience that it perceive naught other than God, and thy tongue that it proclaim nothing but God, and thy hand to write naught but the words of God, and thy knowledge that it comprehend naught except God, and thy heart that it entertain no wish save God, and in like manner purge all thine acts and thy pursuits that thou mayest be nurtured in the paradise of pure love, and perchance mayest attain the presence of Him Whom God shall make manifest, adorned with a purity which He highly cherisheth, and be sanctified from whosoever hath turned away from Him and doth not support Him. Thus shalt thou manifest a purity that shall profit thee.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 97)

BAHA’I FAITH: “The virtues and attributes pertaining unto God are all evident and manifest, and have been mentioned and described in all the heavenly Books. Among them are trustworthiness, truthfulness, purity of heart while communing with God, forbearance, resignation to whatever the Almighty hath decreed, contentment with the things His Will hath provided, patience, nay, thankfulness in the midst of tribulation, and complete reliance, in all circumstances, upon Him. These rank, according to the estimate of God, among the highest and most laudable of all acts. All other acts are, and will ever remain, secondary and subordinate unto them.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 290)

j. Righteousness,  Judaism: Psalms 5:8 “Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness.” Proverbs 10:2 “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Alone amongst them all, this people hath arisen with aims purified of self, following the Teachings of God, most eagerly toiling and striving toward a single goal: to turn this nether dust into high heaven, to make of this world a mirror for the Kingdom, to change this world into a different world, and cause all humankind to adopt the ways of righteousness and a new manner of life.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 70)

 CHRISTIANITY: Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness;” 1Timothy 6:11 “…..follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Do not busy yourselves in your own concerns; let your thoughts be fixed upon that which will rehabilitate the fortunes of mankind and sanctify the hearts and souls of men. This can best be achieved through pure and holy deeds, through a virtuous life and a goodly behavior. Valiant acts will ensure the triumph of this Cause, and a saintly character will reinforce its power. Cleave unto righteousness, O people of Baha! This, verily, is the commandment which this wronged One hath given unto you, and the first choice of His unrestrained Will for every one of you.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 93)

 BABI RELIGION: “The whole object of such righteousness is but recognition of God, thy Lord, and undoubted faith in the Words revealed by Him.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 33)

 ISLAM: 21. “O ye people! adore your Guardian-Lord, who created you and those who came before you, that ye may have the chance to learn righteousness.” 62. “Those who believe and those who follow the Jewish (Scriptures), and the Christians and the Sabians (Sabeans the religion of Adam the father of mankind), and who believe in Allah (God) and the last day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 277. “Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and establish regular prayers and regular charity, will have their reward with their Lord: on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 57. “As to those who believe and work righteousness, Allah will pay them (in full) their reward; but Allah loveth not those who do wrong.” 58. “This is what We rehearse unto thee of the Signs and the Message of Wisdom.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 1. “A blessing is Righteousness (called) the Best. It is weal; it is weal to this (man), When toward Righteousness Best there is right.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 8)

 Zoroastrianism: 18. “I praise Righteousness. A blessing is Righteousness (called) the Best.”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 11)

 Zoroastrianism: “For the reward of virtue and the forgiveness of sins, I do (deeds of) righteousness for the love of my soul.”

(The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 HINDUISM: 171. “Let him, though suffering in consequence of his righteousness, never turn his heart to unrighteousness; for he will see the speedy overthrow of unrighteous, wicked men.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 4)

 Hinduism: “Krishna possesses a character higher than that of Ulysses; unmatched in human wisdom, ever striving for righteousness and peace.”

(Hindu, Mababharata (R. Dutt, abridged tr))

 BUDDHISM: “Lead a life of righteousness, and not a life of wrong-doing. He who follows righteousness lives happily in this world and the next.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “Well may people hold dear the man who is endowed with morality and insight, who is well established in righteousness, a seer of the truth, and applying himself to his own business.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “The names of righteous and believing people Will be established in the Place of Light. Thy name giveth out light.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 77)

Sabeanism: “These souls who went down to the Jordan and were baptized in the name of The Great Life. (Haiyi, God) Their souls have been secured with bonds of righteousness and with the bonds of the great light of Life.” “We have purified our hands in Kušta (truth) And our lips in faith.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 26 and 115

 BABI RELIGION: “By the righteousness of the true God, if ye remain steadfast upon this line which standeth upright between the two lines, ye shall, in very truth, quaff the living waters from the Fountain of this wondrous Revelation as proffered by the hand of His Remembrance…”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 56)

k. Humility,  Judaism: Proverbs 16:19 “Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.” Proverbs 29:23 “A man’s pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “By good deeds, pure lives, humility and meekness be a lesson for others.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith – Abdu’l-Baha Section, p. 365)

 CHRISTIANITY: Matthew 18:4 “Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 23:12 “And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.” James 4:10 “Humble yourselves in the sight of The Lord, and he shall lift you up.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Humility exalteth man to the heaven of glory and power, whilst pride abaseth him to the depths of wretchedness and degradation.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 29)

 BABI RELIGION: “If thou hast, upon hearing the divine verses and by virtue of thy spontaneous love for the True Word of God, responded in a spirit of utter humility and lowliness — a spirit which is one of the mightiest signs of true love and understanding — then such proofs have been and will ever be regarded as sound.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 120)

 ISLAM: “Whenever you receive guidance of The Lord to achieve a thing you desire, then do not get proud of your achievement but be humble and submissive to Him and realize that your success was due to His Mercy.”

(Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: 23. “Those who believe and work righteousness, and humble themselves before their Lord — they will be Companions of the Garden, to dwell therein for aye!”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  11)

Islam: 90. “So We listened to him: and We granted him Yahya: We cured his wife’s (barrenness) for him. These three were ever quick in emulation in good works: they used to call on Us with love and reverence, and humble themselves before Us.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  21)

Islam: 35. “For Muslim men and women — for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah’s (God‘s) praise — for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  33)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 31. “Without any reason men adhere to that evil guide, Passion, created by the demons; so that they do not think of Fate,” “And by the bent of their nature they forget death.” “They do not keep in mind the working of Time and the transientness of the body,” “They ever go wandering about on the way of desire,” “They are tossed in doubt by evil Passion,” “They clothe themselves with spite, in the course of strife, for the sake of vanishing goods;” “They are intoxicated with pride in their youth,” “And shall be full of regrets at the end of their time.” 3. “Therefore, would we choose, O Ahura Mazda (God)! and thou, O Righteousness the beauteous! that we should think, and speak, and do those thoughts, and words, and deeds, among actual good thoughts, and words, and actions, which are the best for both the worlds; (4) and together with these gifts (?) and actions which are thus the best, we would pray…… from the humble, from the potent and the weak.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta Fragments and Yasna 35)

 Zoroastrianism: 11. “He smites Pride; he smites Scorn; he smites Hot Fever; he smites Slander; he smites Discord; he smites the Evil Eye.” Better are the humble at heart.

(The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 HINDUISM: 41. “Through a want of humility Vena perished, likewise king Nahusha, Sudas, the son of Pigavana, Sumukha, and Nemi.” 42. “But by humility Prithu and Manu gained sovereignty, Kubera the position of The Lord of wealth, and the son of Gadhi the rank of a Brahmana.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 7)

 Hinduism: “Deceitfulness, and arrogance, and pride, Quickness to anger, harsh and evil speech, And ignorance, to its own darkness blind, These be the signs, My Prince! of him whose birth Is fated for the regions of the vile.” “The rightful doer. He who acts Free from self-seeking; humble, resolute, Steadfast, in good,” “Such be the signs, O Indian Prince! of him whose feet are set On that fair path which leads to heavenly birth!”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapters 16 and 18)

 BUDDHISM: 18. “Hard is the life of a modest one Who ever seeks after purity, Who is strenuous, humble, Cleanly of life, and discerning.” “Make a refuge unto yourself, Quickly strive and become wise. Purged of taint and free from stain, To heavenly state of the Noble will you attain.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 3 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 17. “Abandon anger, give up pride, and overcome all fetters. Suffering does nor befall him who is without attachment to names and forms, and possesses nothing of his own.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “It is time to pray the ‘Devotions’ The great moment for humble worship.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 118)

l. Patience,  Judaism: Ecclesiastes 7:8 “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.”  Christianity: Romans 8:25 “But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.” 2 Corinthians 6:4 “But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Therefore, thou must widen thy heart, dilate thy breast, have patience in plenty, calmness of soul and cut thyself from everything but God!”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith – Abdu’l-Baha Section, p. 363)

 BABI RELIGION: “Indeed thou hast endured patiently in Him Who is the sublime Self of God.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 50)

 CHRISTIANITY: 1 Timothy 6:11 “But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.” James 5:7 “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of The Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “He must never seek to exalt himself above any one, must wash away from the tablet of his heart every trace of pride and vain-glory, must cling unto patience and resignation, observe silence and refrain from idle talk.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 264)

 BABI RELIGION: “Remain patient as we have remained patient.” “BE Thou patient!”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, pp. 16 and 56)

 ISLAM: Letter 31. “Fight, whenever required, to defend the cause of Allah (God). When you think of defending the cause of Allah do not be afraid that people will laugh at you, censure your action or slander you. Fearlessly and boldly help truth and justice. Bear patiently the sufferings and face bravely the obstacles which come in your way when you follow truth and when you try to uphold it. Adhere to the cause of truth and justice wherever you find it. Try to be well versed with Islamic Jurisprudence and theology and acquire a thorough knowledge of the canons of this religion.”

     (Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: 177. “It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces toward East or West; but it is righteousness to believe in Allah and the Last Day, and the Angels, and the Book, and the Messengers; to spend of your substance, out of love for Him, for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, for those who ask, and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast in prayer, and practice regular charity; to fulfill the contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and patient, in pain (or suffering) and adversity, and throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people of truth, the Allah-fearing.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 126. “If ye do catch them out, catch them out no worse than they catch you out: but if ye show patience, that is indeed the best (course) for those who are patient.” “Do thou be patient, for thy patience is but from Allah; nor grieve over them: and distress not thyself because of their plots.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  16)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: “O Spenta Armaiti, kindly Do this out of kindness to the creatures open asunder and stretch thyself afar, to bear flocks and herds and men.” “May peace triumph over discord here, and generous giving (benevolence) over avarice, (patience over intolerance), reverence over contempt, speech with truthful words over lying utterance. May the Righteous Order gain the victory over the Demon of the Lie.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad and Yasna 60)

 Zoroastrianism: 8. “He is patient, like a priest; he wants only a small piece of bread, like a priest; in these things he is like unto a priest.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad)

 HINDUISM: “A Brahman’s virtues, Prince Born of his nature, are serenity, Self-mastery, religion, purity, Patience, uprightness, learning, and to know The truth of things which be.”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18)

 Hinduism: 246. “The daily study of the Veda, the performance of the great sacrifices according to one’s ability, (and) patience (in suffering) quickly destroy all guilt, even that caused by mortal sins.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 11)

 BUDDHISM: 26. “He who endures undisturbed criticism, ill-treatment and bonds, strong in patience, and that strength his power – that is what I call a brahmin.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 14. “Not to do wrong, to do good, and to purify one’s mind, that is the teaching of the awakened ones. The awakened call patience the highest sacrifice; the awakened declare nirvana the highest good.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “One should cherish ideals of charity, good behavior, patience, zeal, thoughtfulness and wisdom. Even in the worldly life the practice of these virtues will bring rewards of happiness and success.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “To each according to the works of his hands It is awarded.” “Every man who toiled And was long-suffering, (patient) shall come and take with both hands.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 123)

m. Mercy and Compassion,  Judaism: Zechariah 7:9 “Thus speaketh The LORD of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and shew mercy and compassions every man to his brother:”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Have mercy on yourselves and on your fellowmen, and suffer not the Cause of God — a Cause which is immeasurably exalted above the inmost essence of sanctity — to be sullied with the stain of your idle fancies, your unseemly and corrupt imaginations.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 299)

 CHRISTIANITY: 1 Peter 3: 8 “Be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” 1 John 3:17 “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” 1 John 3:18 “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “O ye beloved of the Lord! The Kingdom of God is founded upon equity and justice, and also upon mercy, compassion, and kindness to every living soul.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 158)

 BABI RELIGION: “So at noon they led the Báb and His disciple to the square in front of the citadel of Tabriz. Sam Khan, the commander of the Armenian regiment detailed to execute them, was ill at ease. The Prisoner looked kind and compassionate.”

(H. M. Balyuzi, The Bab – The Herald of the Days, p. 157)

 CHRISTIANITY: Jude 1:21 “Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.” Jude 1:22 “And of some have compassion, making a difference:”

BAHA’I FAITH: “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.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 214) 

 BABI RELIGION: “It behoves, in this day, the peoples and nations of both the East and the West to hasten to this threshold, and here seek to obtain the reviving grace of the Merciful.”

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 59)

 ISLAM: Letter 53. “Let your mercy and compassion come to their rescue and help in the same way and to the same extent that you expect Allah (God) to show mercy and forgiveness to you.”

(Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: 54. “When those come to thee who believe in Our Signs, say: ‘Peace be on you: your Lord had inscribed for Himself (the rule of) Mercy: verily, if any of you did evil in ignorance, and thereafter repented and amended (his conduct), lo! He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”’ 17. “Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion.”

(Islam, The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 6 and 90)

Islam: 27. “Then, in their wake, We followed them up with (others of) Our messengers: We sent after them Jesus the son of Mary, and bestowed on him the Gospel; and We ordained in the hearts of those who followed him Compassion and Mercy.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  57)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 9. “And I desire to approach the Fire of the spoken name, and Toward that farmhouse which is sanctified and which has fields and comfort, and mercy (for the poor).”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Visperad)

 Zoroastrianism: 3. “And we sacrifice to the listening (that hears our prayers) and to that mercy, and to the hearing of (our spoken) homage, and to that mercy which is (shown in response to our offered) praise.”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Visperad)

 Zoroastrianism: “(He is) the greatest Lord, powerful and wise, creator, nourisher, protector, compassionate, virtuous, forgiver, pure, a good dispenser of justice and all powerful.” “We sacrifice unto Mercy and Charity.”

(The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 HINDUISM: 8. “Let him be always industrious in privately reciting the Veda; let him be patient of hardships, friendly (towards all), of collected mind, ever liberal and never a receiver of gifts, and compassionate towards all living creatures.

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 6)

 Hinduism: 1.33. “By cultivating friendliness towards happiness and compassion towards misery, gladness towards virtue and indifference towards vice, the mind becomes pure.”

(Hindu, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali)

 Hinduism: “The divine voice of thunder repeats the same, Da Da Da, that is, Be subdued, Give, Be merciful. Therefore let that triad be taught, Subduing, Giving, and Mercy.”

(Hindu, Upanishads vol. 2, Brihadaranyaka-Upanishad Part 3)

 BUDDHISM: “He dwells with a heart free from ill-will; cherishing love and compassion toward all living beings, he cleanses his heart from ill-will.”

((The Eightfold Path), Buddha, the Word (The Eightfold Path))

 Buddhism: “Practice kindness and compassion on all alike with no discrimination what-so-ever.” “Persevere assiduously in the practice of boundless compassion, joyful serenity and perfect equanimity.” (Buddha, Surangama Sutra and Buddha, Middle Discourses)

 Buddhism: “Think compassionately of other beings.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “Be careful; make enquiry, display kindness, show compassion.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 74)

n. Love,  Christianity: John 13:34 “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”  Judaism: Deuteronomy 10:17 “For The LORD your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:” Deuteronomy 10:18 “He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.” Deuteronomy 10:19 “Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.” Deuteronomy 10:20 “Thou shalt fear The LORD thy God; Him shalt thou serve, and to Him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “During the last six thousand years nations have hated one another, it is now time to stop. War must cease. Let us be united and love one another.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 61)

 JUDAISM: Leviticus 19:34 “But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am The LORD your God.” Proverbs 15:16 “Better is little with the fear of The LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith.” Proverbs 15:17 “Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.”  Christianity: John 15:17 “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” Romans 13:8 “Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.” 1 Thessalonians 3:12 “And The Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:”

BAHA’I FAITH: “The divine purpose is that men should live in unity, concord and agreement and should love one another.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith – Abdu’l-Baha Section, p. 245)

 BABI RELIGION: “GOD hath, at all times and under all conditions, been wholly independent of His creatures. He hath cherished and will ever cherish the desire that all men may attain His gardens of Paradise with utmost love, that no one should sadden another, not even for a moment, and that all should dwell within His cradle of protection and security until the Day of Resurrection which marketh the dayspring of the Revelation of Him Whom God will make manifest.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 86)

 CHRISTIANITY: 1 Peter 1:22 “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:” 1 John 4:7 “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “O ye beloved of the Lord! Commit not that which defileth the limpid stream of love or destroyeth the sweet fragrance of friendship. By the righteousness of The Lord! Ye were created to show love one to another and not perversity and rancor. Take pride not in love for yourselves but in love for your fellow-creatures. Glory not in love for your country, but in love for all mankind. Let your eye be chaste, your hand faithful, your tongue truthful and your heart enlightened.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Tablets of Baha’u’llah, p. 138)

 BABI RELIGION: “The path to guidance is one of love and compassion, not of force and coercion.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 75)

 ISLAM: Letter 53. “Be very careful of the welfare of the poor people. Do not be arrogant and vain against them. Remember that you have to take particular care of those who cannot reach you, whose poverty-stricken and disease-ridden sight may be hateful to you, and whom society treats with disgust, detestation and contempt. You should be a source of comfort, love and respect to them.”

(Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: 103. “And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (God) stretches out for you, and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah’s favor on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His grace, ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of fire, and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make his signs clear to you: that ye may be guided.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3)

Islam: 189. “It is He who created you from a single person, and made his mate of like nature, in order that he might dwell with her (in love).” 96. “On those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, will (Allah) Most Gracious bestow Love.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 7 and 19)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 4. “From this Spirit have Liars fallen away, O Mazda (God), but not the Righteous. Whether one is lord of little or of much, he is to show love.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 47)

 Zoroastrianism: 12. “And so thou, O youth of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds, of good religion! didst love.”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta Fragments)

 HINDUISM: “Worship Me well, with hearts of love and faith, And find and hold Me in the hour of death.”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 7)

 Hinduism: “Devoted, with a heart grown pure, restrained In lordly self-control, forgoing wiles Of song and senses, freed from love and hate, Dwelling ‘mid solitudes, in diet spare, With body, speech, and will tamed to obey, Ever to holy meditation vowed, From passions liberate, quit of the Self, Of arrogance, impatience, anger, pride; Freed from surroundings, quiet, lacking naught- Such an one grows to oneness with the BRAHM; Such an one, growing one with BRAHM, serene, Sorrows no more, desires no more; his soul, Equally loving all that lives.”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18)

 BUDDHISM: “Undisturbed shall our mind remain, no evil words shall escape our lips; friendly and full of sympathy shall we remain, with heart full of love, and free from any hidden malice; and that person shall we penetrate with loving thoughts, wide, deep, boundless, freed from anger and hatred.”

((The Eightfold Path), Buddha, the Word (The Eightfold Path))

 Buddhism: “He has cast away Ill-will; he dwells with a heart free from ill-will; cherishing love and compassion toward all living beings, he cleanses his heart from ill-will.”

((The Eightfold Path), Buddha, the Word (The Eightfold Path))

 SABEANISM: “And we have arranged (all things?) according to Thy loving-kindness from beginning to end.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 30)

Sabeanism: “Praise Thee, for amongst them all hatred, Envy and dissensions exist not. The Place (of love) which is all portals of radiance, light and glory Praiseth Thee.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75)

o. Love of God,  Judaism: Deuteronomy 6:5 “And thou shalt love The LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Christianity: Matthew 22:37 “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love The Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.”Mark 12:30 “And thou shalt love The Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “That Assembly resteth in the sheltering shade of The Lord of all bounties, and it is my hope that, as beseemeth that body, it will be favoured and invigorated by the breathings of the Holy Spirit, and that day by day ye will love God in ever greater measure, and become more tightly bound to the Beauty that abideth forever, to Him Who is the Light of the world. For love of God and spiritual attraction do cleanse and purify the human heart.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 202)

 CHRISTIANITY: Luke 10:27 “Thou shalt love The Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” Jude 1:21 “Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “Having created the world and all that liveth and moveth therein, He, through the direct operation of His unconstrained and sovereign Will, chose to confer upon man the unique distinction and capacity to know Him and to love Him — a capacity that must needs be regarded as the generating impulse and the primary purpose underlying the whole of creation….”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 65)

 BABI RELIGION: “Take thou good heed that ye may all, under the leadership of Him Who is the Source of Divine Guidance, be enabled to direct thy steps aright upon the Bridge, which is sharper than the sword and finer than a hair, so that perchance the things which from the beginning of thy life till the end thou hast performed for the love of God.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 95)

 ISLAM: 165. “There are men who take (for worship) others besides Allah (God) as equal (with Allah); they love them as they should love Allah. But those of faith are overflowing in their love for Allah. If only the unrighteous could see, behold, they would see the penalty, that to Allah belongs all power, and Allah will strongly enforce the penalty.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   2)

Islam: 31. “If ye do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you, and forgive you your sins, for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3)

Islam: 90. “So We listened to him: and We granted him Yahya: We cured his wife’s (barrenness) for him. These three were ever quick in emulation in good works: they used to call on Us with love and reverence, and humble themselves before Us.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  21)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: “Everybody did love Thee for that greatness, goodness, fairness, sweet-scentedness, victorious strength, and freedom from sorrow, in which thou dost appear to me; and so thou, O youth of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds, of good religion! didst love Me for that greatness, goodness, fairness, sweet scentedness, victorious strength, and freedom from sorrow, in which I appear to thee.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta Fragments)

 HINDUISM: 7. “Who cleave, who seek in Me Refuge from birth and death, those have the Truth! Those know Me BRAHMA (God): know Me Soul of Souls, The ADHYATMAN: know KARMA, my work; Know I am ADHIBHUTA, Lord of Life, And ADHIDAIVA, Lord of all the Gods, And ADHIYAJNA, Lord of Sacrifice; Worship Me well, with hearts of love and faith, And find and hold Me in the hour of death.”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 7)

 Hinduism: “Equally loving all that lives, loves well Me, Who have made them, and attains to Me. By this same love and worship doth he know Me as I am, how high and wonderful,” “Whose soul clings fast to Me. Cling thou to Me! Clasp Me with heart and mind! so shalt thou dwell Surely with Me on high.”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapters 12 and 18)

 Hinduism: “Give Me thy heart! adore Me! serve Me! Cling In faith and love and reverence to Me! So shalt thou come to Me! I promise true, For thou art sweet to Me! And let go those- Rites and writ duties! Fly to Me alone! Make Me thy single refuge! will free Thy soul from all its sins! Be of good cheer!”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18)

 BUDDHISM: 25. “Let one live in love; let one be adept in one’s duties; then joyfully one will see the end of sorrow. As the jasmine sheds its withered flowers, people should shed desire and hate, mendicants.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “The Great Life (Haiyi, God) dwelleth on those who love Him” “Forgive those that love his name of Truth.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 30)

Sabeanism: “Praise Thee, for amongst them all hatred, Envy and dissensions exist not. The Place (of love) which is all portals of radiance, light and glory Praiseth Thee.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75)

Sabeanism: “He sundered Light from darkness and sundered Good from Evil, He sundered Life from Death, And He brought out those who love His name of Truth From Darkness to Light and from Evil to Good And from Death to Life and set them On roads of Truth and Faith.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75)

p. Be forgiving,  Christianity: Matthew 6:14 “For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:” Matthew 6:15 “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matthew 18:21 “Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?” Matthew 18:22 “Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “If a man strikes another, and he who is struck takes revenge by returning the blow, what advantage will he gain? Will this be a balm for his wound or a remedy for his pain? No, God forbid! In truth the two actions are the same: both are injuries; the only difference is that one occurred first, and the other afterward. Therefore, if he who is struck forgives, nay, if he acts in a manner contrary to that which has been used toward him, this is laudable.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 267)

 CHRISTIANITY: Ephesians 4:32 “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Colossians 3:13 “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”  Judaism: Sirach 28:2 “Forgive thy neighbour the hurt that he hath done unto thee, so shall thy sins also be forgiven when thou prayest.” (Deuterocanonical Apocrypha,) Genesis 50:17 “So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father….” Wisdom 18:2 “But for that they did not hurt them now, of whom they had been wronged before, they thanked them, and besought them pardon for that they had been enemies.” (Deuterocanonical Apocrypha)

BAHA’I FAITH: “We must look upon our enemies with a sin-covering eye and act with justice when confronted with any injustice whatsoever, forgive all, consider the whole of humanity as our own family, the whole earth as our own country, be sympathetic with all suffering, nurse the sick, offer a shelter to the exiled, help the poor and those in need, dress all wounds and share the happiness of each one.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Divine Philosophy, p. 41)

 BABI RELIGION: “There is only one great verity in it: Love, the mainspring of every energy, tolerance towards each other, desire of understanding each other, knowing each other, helping each other, forgiving each other.”

(Moojan Momen, The Babi  and Baha’i Religions 1844-1944, p. 60)

 ISLAM: “If I forgive my assassin then it will be to gain the Blessings of Allah (God) for forgiving a person who has harmed you, and it will be a good deed if you also forgive him. Do you not desire to be forgiven by The Lord?”

(Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: “Have a control on your temper. If you have power to retaliate, then forgive and forget. When in anger, be forbearing, patient and tolerant. When you are in possession of wealth, power and authority, then be forgiving, merciful and compassionate. These traits will help you to gain your salvation.”

(Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: 22. “Let not those among you who are endued with grace and amplitude of means resolve by oath against helping their kinsmen, those in want, and those who have left their homes in Allah’s cause: let them forgive and overlook: do you not wish that Allah should forgive you? For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  24)

Islam: 40. “The recompense for an injury is an injury equal thereto in degree: but if a person forgives and makes reconciliation, His reward is due from Allah: for (Allah, God) loveth not those who do wrong.” 43. “But indeed if any show patience and forgive, that would truly be an exercise of courageous will and resolution in the conduct of affairs.” 14. “Tell those who believe, to forgive those who do not look forward to the Days of Allah: it is for Him to recompense (for good or ill) each People according to what they have earned.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs  42 and 45)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 3. “Let Your ears attend to those who in their deeds and utterances hold to Your words, Ahura (God) and Right, to those of Good Thought, for whom Thou, Mazda (God), art the first teacher.” “Where is the recompense for wrong to be found, where pardon for the same?” (forgiveness)

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 53)

 Zoroastrianism: “I will bless Strength and Victory, the two keepers, the two good keepers, the two maintainers; the two who forgive, the two who strike off, the two who forget.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 HINDUISM: 107. “The learned are purified by a forgiving disposition,”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 5)

 Hinduism: 313. “He who, being abused by men in pain, pardons (them), will in reward of that (act) be exalted in heaven; but he who, (proud) of his kingly state, forgives them not, will for that (reason) sink into hell.”

(Hindu, Laws of Manu chapter 8)

 Hinduism: 17. “He who wishes the increase of Brahmana power,” “Let him be forgiving.”

(Hindu, The Dharma Sutras, Apastamba Prasna I, Patala 1, Khanda 3)

 BUDDHISM: 4. “As the bee collects nectar and departs without harming the flower or its color or scent, so let the sage live in a village. Not the faults of others nor their errors of commission or omission, but one’s own errors and omissions should the sage consider.” Be forgiving of others.

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “Speak not harshly to anyone. Those thus addressed will retort. Painful indeed is vindictive speech. Blows in exchange may bruise you. If you silence yourself as a broken gong (forgiving) You have already attained Nirvana. No contention will be found in you.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 3 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “Forgive those that love His name of Truth.” “Forgive him his sins, trespasses, follies, stumblings and mistakes.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 30 and 72)

Sabeanism: “The Great Life (Haiyi, God) dwelleth on those who love Him” “Forgive those that love His name of Truth.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 30)

q. Truthfulness,  Judaism: Deuteronomy 32:4 “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.” Zechariah 8:16 “These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:” 8:17 “And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith The LORD.” Proverbs 12:17 “He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.” Deuteronomy 23:23 “That which is gone out of thy lips thou shalt keep and perform;”

BAHA’I FAITH: “All religions teach that we must do good, that we must be generous, sincere, truthful, law-abiding, and faithful; all this is reasonable, and logically the only way in which humanity can progress.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 141)

 BABI RELIGION: “He who speaks the Truth be made known, and he that speaks falsely shall be condemned to eternal misery and shame. Then shall the way of Truth be revealed and made manifest to all men.”

(H. M. Balyuzi, The Bab – The Herald of the Days, p. 72)

 CHRISTIANITY: Acts 26:25 “…..speak forth the words of truth and soberness.” 2 Corinthians 13:8 For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. Ephesians 4:25 “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.” James 3:14 “But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.” 1 John 3:17 “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” 3:18 “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.”

BAHA’I FAITH: “When we speak let our speech be an outward evidence of the inner light, for we must speak the truth, otherwise we shall not act wisely.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Divine Philosophy, p. 103)

 BABI RELIGION: Be “Honest, truthful, and worthy of credit.”

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 413)

 ISLAM: Letter 15. “Let truth prevail and let our people realize justice, honesty and piety.”

     (Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: 42. “Cover not Truth with falsehood, nor conceal the Truth when ye know (what it is)” 119. “O ye who believe! fear Allah (God) and be with those who are true (in word and deed).”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surahs 2 and 9)

Islam: 119. “This is a day on which the truthful will profit from their truth: theirs are Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath, their eternal home: Allah well-pleased with them, and they with Allah: that is the great Salvation, (the fulfillment of all desires).”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   5)

Islam: “The Prophet said, ‘Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. And a man keeps on telling the truth until he becomes a truthful person. Falsehood leads to Al-Fajur (i.e. wickedness, evil-doing), and Al-Fajur (wickedness) leads to the (Hell) Fire, and a man may keep on telling lies till he is written before Allah, a liar.”’

(Islam, Hadith, Bukhari Vol 8, Book 73, Number 116)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: “A pious man, O Spitama Zarathushtra! who knows how to speak, who speaks truth, who has learned the Holy Word, who is pious, and knows best the rites,” is a just man.

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad)

 Zoroastrianism: 6. “To him shall the best befall, who, as one that knows, speaks to me Right’s truthful word of Welfare and of Immortality; even the Dominion of Mazda (God) which Good Thought shall increase for him.”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 31)

 Zoroastrianism: “We worship the truthfully spoken word; we worship the truthfully spoken sayings,”

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Khorda Avesta – Book of Common Prayer pt. 1)

 HINDUISM: 2.36 “When one is firmly established in speaking truth, the fruits of action become subservient to him.” 2.37 “All jewels approach him who is confirmed in honesty.”

(Hindu, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali)

 Hinduism: 4. “He shall appoint men of the first three castes, who are pure and truthful, over villages and towns for the protection of the people.” “Their servants shall possess the same qualities.”

(Hindu, The Dharma Sutras, Apastamba Prasna 2, Patala 10, Khanda 26)

 BUDDHISM: 24. “The gift of the Truth beats all other gifts. The flavour of the Truth beats all other tastes. The joy of the Truth beats all other joys, and the cessation of desire conquers all suffering.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “Noble Wisdom which is beyond the path and usage of the philosophers; manifests itself as the Truth of Highest Reality. By which, going up continuously by the stages of purification, one enters at last upon the stage of Tathagatahood,” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sura)

 SABEANISM: “He sundered Light from darkness and sundered Good from Evil, He sundered Life from Death, And He brought out those who love His name of Truth From Darkness to Light and from Evil to Good And from Death to Life and set them On roads of Truth and Faith.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75)

Sabeanism: “Thy truth, we have confidence.” “victorious are the words of truth which issue from Thy mouth, and victorious are all Thy deeds. And Life is victorious!” “I strive with a pious and believing heart for the love of precious Truth.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 51, 76 and 77)

r. Forbearance. (refrain from, practice patience, tolerance, mercifulness, resignation easygoing, long suffering, clement, understanding, accommodating, stoic)  Judaism: Exodus 23:4 “If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.” Exodus 23:5 “If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.” Ezekiel 3:27 But when I speak with thee, I will open thy mouth, and thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith The Lord GOD; He that heareth, let him hear; and he that forbeareth, let him forbear:  Christianity: Colossians 3:12 “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” 3:13 “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” Romans 3:21 “But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;” 3:22 “Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” 3:24 “Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:” 3:25 “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;” 3:26 “To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.” 2 Corinthians 12:6 “For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be,”

BAHA’I FAITH: “In the time of Moses, there were ten crimes punishable by death. When Christ came this was changed; the old axiom ‘an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth’ was converted into ‘Love your enemies, do good to them that hate you’, the stern old law being changed into one of love, mercy and forbearance!”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 142)

Baha’i Faith: “We must strive with life and heart that, day by day, our deeds may be better, our conduct more beautiful and our forbearance greater.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v2, p. 306)

 BABI RELIGION: “Exercise…… forbearance.”

The Bab: (Shoghi Effendi, The Dawn-Breakers, p. 308)

 ISLAM: Letter 69. “Have a control on your temper. If you have power to retaliate, then forgive and forget. When in anger, be forbearing, patient and tolerant. When you are in possession of wealth, power and authority, then be forgiving, merciful and compassionate. These traits will help you to gain your salvation.”

(Islam, Ali b. Abi Taalib, Letters from Nahjul Balaagh)

Islam: “Truly, thou art the one that forbeareth with faults and is right-minded!”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  11)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: “He is patient, like a priest;” (forbearing).

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Vendidad)

 HINDUISM: 23. (Viz.) “Compassion on all creatures, forbearance, freedom from anger, purity, quietism, auspiciousness, freedom from avarice, and freedom from covetousness.” “He who is sanctified by these forty sacraments, but whose soul is destitute of the eight good qualities, will not be united with Brahman, nor does he reach his heaven.”

(Hindu, The Dharma Sutras, Gutama 8)

 BUDDHISM: “Forbearance is the highest ascetic practice, ‘Nirvana is supreme’; say the Buddhas.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 3 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: “Patience will call for something more than forbearance with external circumstances and the temperaments of other people: it will now call for patience with one’s self. Zeal will call for something more than industry and outward show of earnestness: it will call for more self-control in the task of following the Noble Path and in manifestating the Dharma in one’s own life.” (Buddha, Lankavatara Sutra)

 SABEANISM: “Praise Thee, for amongst them all hatred, Envy and dissensions exist not (forbearance and patience reigns). The Place which is all portals of radiance, light and glory Praiseth Thee.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75)

s. Contentment and Resignation.  Christianity: 1 Timothy 6:6 “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” “And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.” “For the love of money is the root of all evil:” Luke 3:14 “Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content.” Philippians 4:11 “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” James 4:7 “Submit yourselves therefore to God.” Resign yourself to God’s will. 1 Peter 5:4 “And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.” “Ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder.” “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: “Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.” “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” “Whom resist stedfast in the faith (content), knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” “To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”  Judaism: Deuteronomy 14:29 “Be satisfied (be contented); that The LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest.” Jeremiah 31:14 “…..Be satisfied with my goodness, saith The LORD.” Proverbs 19:23 “The fear of The LORD tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied (contented); he shall not be visited with evil.” Isaiah 60:7 “They shall come up with acceptance on Mine altar, and I will glorify the house of My glory.” Sirach 29:22 “Better is the life of a poor man in a mean cottage, than delicate fare in another man’s house.” “Be it little or much, hold thee contented,” (Deuterocanonical Apocrypha,)

BAHA’I FAITH: “The virtues and attributes pertaining unto God are all evident and manifest, and have been mentioned and described in all the heavenly Books. Among them are trustworthiness, truthfulness, purity of heart while communing with God, forbearance, resignation to whatever the Almighty hath decreed, contentment with the things His Will hath provided, patience, nay, thankfulness in the midst of tribulation, and complete reliance, in all circumstances, upon Him. These rank, according to the estimate of God, among the highest and most laudable of all acts. All other acts are, and will ever remain, secondary and subordinate unto them….”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u’llah, p. 290)

 BABI RELIGION: “I have found no contentment save in Thy love, no exultation except in Thy remembrance, no eagerness but in obedience to Thee, no joy save in Thy nearness, and no tranquillity except in reunion with Thee, notwithstanding that I am conscious that all created things are debarred from Thy sublime Essence and the entire creation is denied access to Thine inmost Being.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 174)

 ISLAM: “I turn my face with resignation unto God,”

(The Qur’an (E.H. Palmer tr), Sura   3 – Imran’s Family)

Islam: “They who set their face with resignation Godward, and do what is right, – their reward is with their Lord; no fear shall come on them, neither shall they be grieved.”

(The Qur’an (Rodwell tr), Sura   2 – The Cow)

Islam: 3:78 “We believe in God, and in what hath been sent down to us, and what hath been sent down to Abraham, and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the tribes, and in what was given to Moses, and Jesus, and the Prophets, from their Lord. We make no difference between them. And to Him are we resigned.

(The Qur’an (Rodwell tr), Sura   3 – The Family of Imran)

Islam: 84. “We believe in Allah (God), and in what has been revealed to us and what was revealed to Abraham, Isma’il, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and in (Books) given to Moses, Jesus, and the Prophets, from their Lord; we make no distinction between one and another among them, and to Allah do we bow our will (resigned).”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3)

Islam: 36. “Live in contentment,” “it is your piety that reaches Him (Allah).”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah  22)

Islam: “The Prophet said, ‘Riches does not mean, having a great amount of property, but riches is self-contentment.’ “live in contentment,”

(Islam, Hadith, Bukhari Vol 8, Book 76, # 453 and The Qur’an, Surah  22)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: “The contentment of the individual soul!” Is to be desired.

(Zoroaster, The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna)

 Zoroastrianism: “It is not proper to pray for material things; one should learn to be content with what he has got. But prayer for spiritual benefit is permissible.” “Zarathushtra does not preach absolute renunciation. There are great things in life- rectitude, truth, beauty, love and God realization (which leads to) greater and greater realization of these higher things.” (ZOROASTER, Hymns of Atharvan p. 713)

 HINDUISM: “The joys Springing from sense-life are but quickening wombs Which breed sure griefs: those joys begin and end! The wise mind takes no pleasure, Kunti’s Son! In such as those! But if a man shall learn, Even while he lives and bears his body’s chain, To master lust and anger, he is blest! He is the Yukta; he hath happiness, Contentment, light, within: his life is merged In Brahma’s (God‘s) life; he doth Nirvana touch!”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 5)

 Hinduism: 2:30 “Self-restraint in actions includes abstention from violence, from falsehoods, from stealing, from sexual engagements, and from acceptance.” 2.31 “These five willing abstentions are not limited by rank, place, time or circumstance and constitute the Great Vow.” 2.32 “The fixed observances are cleanliness, contentment, austerity, study and persevering devotion to God.”

(Hindu, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali)

 BUDDHISM: 15. “Health is the supreme possession. Contentment is the supreme wealth. A trustworthy friend is the supreme relation. Nirvana is the supreme happiness.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 Buddhism: 25. “Therefore in this religion, this is what comes first for a wise bhikkhu – guarding of the senses, contentment, and discipline in accordance with the rules of the Order.”

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 1 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “Praise Thee, for amongst them all hatred, Envy and dissensions exist not (forbearance and patience reigns). The Place which is all portals of radiance, light and glory Praiseth Thee.” (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapter 75)

BAHA’I FAITH: “The sacrifice of life in the way of the Beloved; the state of resignation and contentment; the multiplicity of misfortunes, calamities, hardships, and afflictions; and falling under suspicion of seditiousness through the machinations of foes; the establishment of His innocence in the presence of His Majesty the King; the repudiation of seditious persons and disavowal of the rebellious party; the conditions of sincere belief in the verses of the Qur’án; the needfulness of godly virtues, distinction from all other creatures in this transitory abode, obedience to the commandments, and avoidance of things prohibited; the evidence of divine support in the affair of the Bab; the inability of whosoever is upon the earth to withstand a heavenly thing; His own awakening at the divine afflux, and His falling thereby into unbounded calamities; His acquisition of the divine gift, His participation in spiritual God-given grace, and His illumination with immediate knowledge without study; the excusableness of His [efforts for the] admonition of mankind, their direction toward the attainment of human perfections, and their enkindlement with the fire of divine love; encouragements to the directing of energy towards the attainment of a state greater than the degree of earthly sovereignty; eloquent prayers [written] in the utmost self-abasement, devotion, and humility; and the like of this. Afterwards He discussed [other] matters in the Persian language. And the form of it is this:”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, A Traveller’s Narrative, p. 60)

t. Reliance on, and trust in God, in everything:   Judaism: 2 Chronicles 16:8 “Were not the Ethiopians and the Lubims a huge host, with very many chariots and horsemen? yet, because thou didst rely on The LORD, he delivered them into thine hand.” 2 Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of The LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him.” Job 31:24 “Thou (The Lord) art my (reliance) confidence;” Sirach 2:10 “Look at the generations of old, and see; did ever any trust in The Lord, and was confounded? or did any abide in His fear, and was forsaken? or whom did he ever despise, that called upon Him?” “For The Lord is full of compassion and mercy, longsuffering, and very pitiful, and forgiveth sins, and saveth in time of affliction.” The lord can be trusted and relied on in everything we do.  Christianity: Ephesians 3:11 “Our Lord, In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him.” 1:12 “That we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in Christ.” 1:13 “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,” 1 John 3:21 “Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.” 1 Timothy 4:10 “For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.” 2 Corinthians 1:9 “We should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: 1:10 Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us.” Trust and confidence in God can is part of our reliance on God.

BAHA’I FAITH: “Thank thou God for He hath guided thee to the path of His Kingdom and provided thee with the fruit of the Tree of Life, which is planted in the middle of the Ferdowce (i.e., the highest Paradise). Yea, this fruit is the knowing God and love for God, and reliance upon God and is the virtue with which the reality of man is adorned,”

(Bahá’í Faith, Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v3, p. 516)

 BABI RELIGION: “Unto Thee have I raised my hands, O Lord, and in Thee have I found sheltering support, O Lord, and unto Thee have I resigned myself, O Lord, and upon Thee have I placed my whole reliance, O Lord, and by Thee am I strengthened, O Lord.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 180)

BAHA’I FAITH: “In all thine affairs put thy reliance in God, and commit them unto Him. He will render thee a reward which the Book hath ordained as great. Occupy thyself, during these fleeting days of thy life, with such deeds as will diffuse the fragrance of Divine good pleasure, and will be adorned with the ornament of His acceptance.” “It behooveth who-so-ever hath set his face towards the Most Sublime Horizon to cleave tenaciously unto the cord of patience, and to put his reliance in God, the Help in Peril, the Unconstrained.” “If anyone revile you, or trouble touch you, in the path of God, be patient, and put your trust in Him Who heareth, Who seeth.”

(Bahá’í Faith, Baha’u’llah, Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, pp. 24, 76 and 98)

 BABI RELIGION: “In Him have I placed My whole trust and upon Him do the faithful place their complete reliance.”

(The Bab, Selections from the Writings of the Bab, p. 27)

 ISLAM: 122. “In Allah (God) should the faithful (ever) put their trust.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   3)

Islam: 51. “Say: ‘Nothing will happen to us except what Allah has decreed for us: He is our Protector’: and on Allah let the believers put their trust.”

(The Qur’an (Yusuf Ali tr), Surah   9)

Islam: “He is the Merciful; we believe in Him, and upon Him do we rely.”

(The Qur’an (E.H. Palmer tr), Sura  67 – The Kingdom)

Islam: “If ye really have trust in God, exert yourselves, And strive, in constant reliance on The Almighty.”

(Mathnavi of Rumi (E.H. Whinfield tr), The Masnavi Vol 1)

  ZOROASTRIANISM: 3. “Who are they to whose help Good Thought shall come? I have faith (trust) that thou wilt thyself fulfill this for me, O Ahura (God).”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 43)

 Zoroastrianism: “In this Religion, Ahura Mazda (God) has been confessed with faith (trust),”

(The Zend-Avesta, Avesta – Yasna 57)

 HINDUISM: “If one of evil life turn in his thought Straightly to Me, count him amidst the good; He hath the high way chosen; he shall grow Righteous ere long; he shall attain that peace Which changes not. Thou Prince of India! Be certain none can perish, trusting Me!”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 9)

 Hinduism: “If this day thou say’st, Relying on thyself…. Vain will the purpose prove!” We must rely on Brahma (God).

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr))

 Hinduism: “With all thy soul Trust Him, and take Him for thy succor.”

(Hindu, Bhagavad Gita (Edwin Arnold tr) chapter 18)

 BUDDHISM: “Those who are filled with unshaken faith (trust) in Me, all those have entered the stream.”

((The Eightfold Path), Buddha, the Word (The Eightfold Path))

 Buddhism: 15. “Trusting is the best relationship.” (for man)

(Buddhist, Dhammapada – Sayings of the Buddha 2 (tr. J. Richards))

 SABEANISM: “For my heart hath testified to The First Life (Haiyi, God).” “Behold me, who have sought purification before Thee! Look on me, I am Thy servant and Thy child. Now I humble myself and my children to Thy name, for I have been true to thy name, and speak (it) in my heart and talk (of it) in my mind. And I subdue my form and my loins,” and trust in Thee, O First Life. (Sabeanism, Ginza Rba- chapters 77 and 410)

   There are many other spiritual qualities and practices that are found in the many religions of God that I haven’t mentioned here because to do so would take volumes of paper and hours of reading time. What I have tried to do here is demonstrate to the reader, with these few similarities, that Christianity and the Bahá’í Faith and the other religions of God have the same spiritual qualities and the religions came about by the same desire from the one true God to educate mankind and uplift the human race.