"Conflict and contention are categorically forbidden"

In the Kitab-i-'Ahd (Book of the Covenant), Bahá'u'lláh says:

"Conflict and contention are categorically forbidden in His Book. This is a decree of God in this Most Great Revelation. It is divinely preserved from annulment and is invested by Him with the splendour of His confirmation. Verily He is the All-Knowing, the All-Wise."

"Conflict and contention are categorically forbidden," and that means conflict and contention are forbidden without exceptions or conditions.

It is absolute, unqualified and unconditional that Bahá'ís may not engage in conflict and contention.

In the Will and Testament of `Abdu'l-Bahá, He says that "[i]n this sacred Dispensation, conflict and contention are in no wise permitted. Every aggressor deprives himself of God's grace."

Conflict and contention are in "no wise" permitted.  That is, no way.

I do believe in the rule of law. I do believe that, in civil matters, one sometimes has to resort to the civil courts. Also, I do believe in defending one's self if brought into court. But it is unseemly and wrong for Bahá'í denominations to quarrel with one another in secular courts over the right of each other to publicly exist, each other's use of the Greatest Name, and over matters of faith and belief.  Since the aggressor deprives himself of God's grace, it would behoove all of the Bahá'ís, and the various denominations such as they exist, to strictly avoid battling in lawsuits in the secular courts.

Not only is this lawsuit contention forbidden, it is embarrassing. To the public, it appears no different than the religious disputes of other faiths. It is no different.  It cannot be different unless and until we obey Bahá'u'lláh.

What is needed is consultation. Brutally honest, frank, and open consultation is what is needed.  I have no fear of verbal warfare over the various ideas and beliefs held by the Bahá'í denominations. Let everyone speak and be heard. Don't hold back on the exchange of ideas.  I believe true consultation arrives one at the Truth, and that the Truth will ultimately prevail.  We do not want to air our issues before secular judges.  The issues that divide us can only be decided in the hearts and minds of Bahá'ís, through the use of consultation, and in obedience to Bahá'u'lláh.

Jeffrey

Comments

[John]

Very well said Jeffrey!

Thank you.