THE PUPIL OF THE EYE AFRICAN AMERICANS OF BAHA'I FAITH

The Pupil of the Eye: African Americans in the World Order of Baha'u'llah (Hardcover)

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THE PUPIL OF THE EYE : African Americans in the World Order of Bahá'u'lláh

… selections from the writings of Bahá'u'lláh, the Báb, Abdu'l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, and the Universal House of Justice.

by Bonnie J. Taylor

One: People of African Descent 3

I. Qualities and Characteristics 3
II. Individual Bahá'ís of African Descent 9

Two: Race 21

I. Origins of Racial Characteristics 21
II. Measurement of Human Intelligence, Capacity and Worth 24
III. The Intellect and Race 28

Three: Bahá'u'lláh's Principle of the Oneness of Mankind 33

I. The Fundamental Principle of the Bahá'í Faith 33
II. Eliminating Prejudices: Prerequisite to Unity and Peace 43
III. The Danger of Prejudice and Disunity 50

Four: Unity in Diversity 61

I. The Purpose and Value of Diversity 61
II. The Principle of Unity in Diversity 67
III. Maintaining Diversity 71

Five: Applying Solutions to Racism 75

I. The Most Vital and Challenging Issue: Goal and the Responsibilities 75
II. Responsibilities of the Bahá'ís of European Descent 97
III. Responsibilities of the Bahá'ís of African Descent 103
IV. Reliance Upon Divine Power and the Love of God 110
V. The Standard of Faith in the Midst of Tests and Adversities 121
VI. Justice-in Principle and Application 134

Six: African Americans and Teaching the Faith of Bahá'u'lláh 147

I. Offering the Message of Bahá'u'lláh to People of African Ancestry 147
II. The Need for Perseverance, Courage and Wisdom 153
III. African Americans as Teachers of the Faith in America 159
IV. Teaching and Serving in the African American Community 162
V. Conferences and Committees 172
VI. African Americans as Pioneers 179

Seven: Destiny 189

Bibliography 199

Notes and Acknowledgments

The Revelation proclaimed by Bahá'u'lláh was directed to the whole of mankind, and is universal in its scope. "The Ancient Beauty hath consented to be bound with chains," Bahá'u'lláh declared, "that mankind may be released from its bondage, and hath consented to be made a prisoner within this most mighty Stronghold that the whole world may attain unto true liberty."
      While the Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh is universal, however, there are references to specific groups of people, including people of African descent. The writings of `Abdu'l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi and The Universal House of Justice also contain numerous such references, as well as a great deal of material written to and about African Americans in particular. This compilation endeavors to collect and organize as much of that material as possible.
      Additional support material has also been included which, although it may not specifically refer to people of African ancestry, nevertheless elaborates upon many of the issues discussed in the quotations written about them. These support materials address experiences common to all human groups.
      The writings specifically about African Americans that are contained herein describe their crucial and indispensable role in the Cause of God. It is hoped that this compilation will serve as an assistance to them as they struggle to overcome the difficulties in their path, and attain their goal and destiny in the new World Order.
      I am deeply grateful to my husband, Clayton E. Taylor, Jr., and all the other African Americans who lovingly welcomed me into their homes and hearts. Their patient education, insight and wisdom in issues of race provided a great deal of the inspiration and guidance necessary for this project.
      The Universal House of Justice and the friends in various departments of the Bahá'í World Centre responded quickly to my inquiries, and provided me with additional material for use in this compilation.
      I am also most appreciative for the support and assistance of the Bahá'í National Education Task Force. I am particularly grateful for Leonard Smith's review of the manuscript, and his valuable suggestions.
      Roger Dahl and Lewis Walker of National Bahá'í Archives were always available to provide research assistance, and enabled me to spend many exciting and fruitful days in search of new material. Roger and Lewis were interested, knowledgeable and responsive to all my questions and needs.
      And finally, the faith, vision and enthusiasm of Charles Cornwell and Paul Lample of Palabra Publications were a source of great encouragement for me. I am grateful that they believed in the value of this work, and that they held the ideals and strength of commitment to transform the manuscript into a publication.