Meditation and the Baha’i Faith by Kari Carlson
We often focus lots of energy on what sets us apart socially. We chooseCAREERS
, homes, and wardrobes to express our individuality. But, it turns out, God already gave each of us the most unique thing we will ever possess: our soul.
, homes, and wardrobes to express our individuality. But, it turns out, God already gave each of us the most unique thing we will ever possess: our soul.
Our soul is an amazing instrument just waiting for our attention. “A sign of God, a heavenly gem,” say the Baha’i Writings.
The soul is a mirror, it reflects what it focuses on. Turn towards social mores, and we reflect others’ expectations. Turn towards God, and we reflect His qualities. He is All-Loving, All-Knowing, and the Most Kind; we reflect love, knowledge, and kindness. We are not God, but we reflect God.
Just imagine a world where our relationships, work, and community involvement are allEXPRESSIONS of this reflection – how wondrous!
of this reflection – how wondrous!
Spiritual practice helps us reposition our soul as we navigate throughLIFE. In the Baha’i Faith this includes daily prayer, meditation, reading Scripture, and to also be of service to others. These practices work hand-in-hand.
. In the Baha’i Faith this includes daily prayer, meditation, reading Scripture, and to also be of service to others. These practices work hand-in-hand.
Meditation clearsAWAY mental chatter, worries and criticisms. Then, the soul does its work. As the Baha’i Writings say, “…while you meditate you are speaking with your own spirit. In that state of mind you put certain questions to your spirit and the spirit answers…”
mental chatter, worries and criticisms. Then, the soul does its work. As the Baha’i Writings say, “…while you meditate you are speaking with your own spirit. In that state of mind you put certain questions to your spirit and the spirit answers…”
Baha’i teachings prescribe no particular style for meditation. Perhaps that is on purpose; as we learn how meditation works for us, we become acquainted with that most precious gift God gave each of us: our soul.
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