The exalted dwellers in this mansion [“the realm of Absolute Command”]
do wield divine authority in the court of rapture, with utter gladness, and
they do bear a kingly sceptre. On the high seats of justice, they issue their
commands, and they send down gifts according to each man’s deserving. Those who
drink of this cup abide in the high bowers of splendor above the Throne of the
Ancient of Days, and they sit in the Empyrean of Might within the Lofty
Pavilion: “Naught shall they know of sun or piercing cold.” [Qur’án
76:13]
Herein the high heavens are in no conflict with the lowly earth,
nor do they seek to excel it, for this is the land of mercy, not the realm of
distinction. Albeit at every moment these souls appear in a new office, yet
their condition is ever the same. Wherefore of this realm it is written, “No
work withholdeth Him from another.” [Cf. Qur’án 55:29] And of another state it
is said: “Every day doth some new work employ Him.” [Qur’án 55:29] This is the
food whose savor changeth not, whose color altereth not. If thou eatest
thereof, thou shalt verily chant this verse: “I turn my face to Him Who hath created
the Heavens and the earth ... I am not one of those who add gods to God.”
[Qur’án 6:79] “And thus did we show Abraham the Kingdom of the Heavens and of
the Earth, that He might be established in knowledge.” [Qur’án 6:75] Wherefore,
put thy hand into thy bosom, then stretch it forth with power, and behold, thou
shalt find it a light unto all the world.” [Cf. Qur’án 7:105]
- Baha’u’llah (‘The Four Valleys’)
