In all these journeys [of the Seven Valleys] the traveler
must stray not the breadth of a hair from the “Law,” for this is indeed the
secret of the “Path” and the fruit of the Tree of “Truth”; and in all these
stages he must cling to the robe of obedience to the commandments, and hold
fast to the cord of shunning all forbidden things, that he may be nourished
from the cup of the Law and informed of the mysteries of Truth. [1]
If any of the utterances of this Servant may not be
comprehended, or may lead to perturbation, the same must be inquired of again,
that no doubt may linger, and the meaning be clear as the Face of the Beloved
One shining from the “Glorious Station.” [2]
These journeys have no visible ending in the world of time,
but the severed wayfarer—if invisible confirmation descend upon him and the
Guardian of the Cause assist him—may cross these seven stages in seven steps,
nay rather in seven breaths, nay rather in a single breath, if God will and
desire it. And this is of “His grace on such of His servants as He pleaseth.”
[3]
(Baha’u’llah, ‘The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys’)
[1] This refers to the three stages of Súfí life: 1. Sharí’at,
or Religious Laws; 2. Taríqat, or the Path on which the mystic wayfarer
journeys in search of the True One; this stage also includes anchoretism. 3.
Haqíqat, or the Truth which, to the Súfí, is the goal of the journey through
all three stages. Here Bahá’u’lláh teaches that, contrary to the belief of
certain Súfís who in their search for the Truth consider themselves above all
law, obedience to the Laws of Religion is essential.
[2] Maqám-i-Mahmúd, Qur’án 17:81.
[3] Qur’án 2:84.
