LITERATURE - A Suggested Systematic Progression

• The Contact Stage
• The Inquirer Stage
• The Seeker Stage
• The New Bahá'í
• Topical Books

Regarding sharing the Faith's sacred literature with seekers, Shoghi Effendi stated:

• "the dissemination of which is an essential prerequisite to any effectively organized campaign of teaching." (The Advent of Divine Justice, p. 9)
• "is the very backbone of the teaching work" (The Light of Divine Guidance, vol. 1, p. 265)
• "books can do infinitely more work than teachers. Sitting in a chair in a solitary corner one is infinitely more receptive to truth than in a lecture hall or in a discussion group." (Dawn of a New Day, p. 39)
• "enable the teaching work to progress more rapidly" (Letters to Australia and New Zealand, p. 123)

TIP: Give one piece of literature at a time unless otherwise requested so not to overwhelm anyone. Present it in a manner that deems it worthy of reading

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CONTACT

Contacts coming from the National's 1-800-22-UNITE System receive:

• A cover letter encouraging seekers to contact the Baha’is in there local area and to visit the National web site at: www.us.bahai.org for more information about the Bahá’í Faith
• Uniting the Human Family - booklet
• The Promise of World Peace - published by the Universal House of Justice, 1985
• The Destiny of America - published by the National Spiritual Assembly to the Bahá’ís of the United States, 2002

If the contacts come from another source, we suggest you send one or all of the above, too. They are an appropriate introduction to the Faith. Scripts

Additional Suggestions:

• The Bahá'í Faith - Gloria Faizi

  A brief introduction to the Bahá'í Faith, its history, teachings, and Central Figures. Includes information on the Bahá'í calendar, Bahá'í administration, the Nineteen Day Feast, and Bahá'í Houses of Worship around the world. Useful for individual study, teaching, and proclamation.

• The Promise of World Peace: To the Peoples of the World - The Universal House of Justice

  Addresses humanity’s coming of age, the spiritual roots of peace, the path to world order, the construction of a peaceful global civilization, and the basis of human happiness. It includes a summary of the message and an addendum giving a brief overview of the Bahá’í Faith.

• Bahá'u'lláh - Bahá'í Publications Australia

  This book introduces the life and teachings of the prophetic figure whose growing influence in the world is the most remarkable development of contemporary history. Teaching the oneness of humanity Bahá'u'lláh challenges humanity that the human race has been called by God to transform its moral, social, and spiritual life.

• A Gift of Prayers - Pamphlet

  Available at http://www.special-ideas.com/minibook.htm#prayer .

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INQUIRER

• The Hidden Words - Bahá'u'lláh

  A treasury of brief, gem-like utterances of Bahá'u'lláh translated by Shoghi Effendi. Bahá'u'lláh describes the Hidden Words as "the inner essence" of the revelations of the Prophets, clothed in "the garment of brevity." 'Abdu'l-Bahá encourages us to memorize and recite them "day and night." Shoghi Effendi says they rank next to the Kitáb-i-Iqan and hold a position of "unsurpassed preeminence" among Bahá'u'lláh's ethical writings. Themes include the nobility of creation, the mystical relationship between God and humanity, and the importance of humanity's response to divine counsel. An essential part of every Bahá'í library; perfect for seekers of all ages.

• Secret of Divine Civilization - 'Abdu'l-Bahá

  A treatise on the true nature of civilization and a blueprint for "the future reorganization of the world." Its message appeals to world-mindedness and the highest human motives, emphasizing the spiritual basis of civilization. An excellent teaching and deepening tool that elaborates principles proclaimed by Bahá'u'lláh and provides a basis for achieving a new world order.

• Some Answered Questions - 'Abdu'l-Bahá

  A compilation of 'Abdu'l-Bahá's replies to questions put to Him by Laura Clifford Barney. Discusses a wide range of spiritual and philosophical subjects, including the influence of the Prophets on humanity's evolution, various Christian subjects, the nature of the Manifestations of God, the nature of humanity, and many miscellaneous subjects.

• Bahá'í Teachings on Spiritual Reality - compiled by Paul Lample

  What is the purpose of life? What is the nature of a human being? Why do suffering and evil exist? Is there life after death? Such questions have challenged humanity throughout history. This book presents the teachings of the Bahá'í Faith offering a new and renewed understanding of self, of society, and human purpose.

• Bahá'u'lláh and the New Era - J. E. Esslemont

  An introduction to Bahá'í history and teachings. First published in 1923 after Esslemont discussed the book with Abdu'l-Bahá and containing 'Abdu'l-Bahá's corrections to three-and-a-half chapters, the book was revised in 1937 under the advice and approval of Shoghi Effendi. Much new information has since been added. Appropriate for seekers and Bahá'ís.

• The Proofs of Bahá'u'lláh's Mission - compiled by Paul Lample

  A wonderful introductory compilation of extracts from the Bahá'í writings for seekers. Discusses the search for truth, the mission of God's Manifestations, Their proofs, and the divine summons to recognize Bahá'u'lláh and apply His teachings.

• Prosperity of Humankind - Bahá'í International Community's Office of Public Information

  Available at http://www.bahai.org/article-1-7-0-4.html .

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SEEKER

• Gleanings from the Writings of Bahá'u'lláh - Bahá'u'lláh

  A major compilation of writings of Bahá'u'lláh selected and translated by Shoghi Effendi. Themes include the nature of religion, the nature of the soul and its immortality, the spiritual roots of peace and World Order, and the transformation of human society. Shoghi Effendi calls the book a selection of the "most characteristic" passages from Bahá'u'lláh's writings and says it "should be the continued guide and companion of every believer," especially those who are actively teaching the Cause.

• Kitáb-i-Íqan, The Book of Certitude - Bahá'u'lláh

  Bahá'u'lláh's explanation of the basic tenets of the Bahá'í Faith and of the continuity of religion as it has been revealed throughout the ages. This book affirms the unity of the Prophets, the universality of their Message, the identity of their fundamental teachings, the sanctity of their scriptures, and the twofold character of their stations." The book elucidates allegorical passages from the New Testament and the Qur'án that have caused misunderstandings among religious leaders. Termed by Shoghi Effendi "the most important book written on the spiritual significance of the Cause," it should be "read and read over again by every soul who desires to serve" Bahá'u'lláh. Moreover, he says, "Every Bahá'í should master" this book and be able to explain its contents to others.

• The Seven Valleys and The Four Valleys - Bahá'u'lláh

  Two allegorical works in one volume that reveal the path of individual spiritual development. The Seven Valleys describes seven stages the soul must traverse in its quest to draw close to God. The Four Valleys explains the four ways in which the Unseen is seen, the four stages of the human heart, and the four kinds of mystic wayfarers seeking the Intended One.

• Paris Talks - 'Abdu'l-Bahá

  Talks given by 'Abdu'l-Bahá during His visit to Paris in 1911 - 1912. The Master, as Bahá'ís call Him, gave talks on a wide variety of subjects from the obligations towards strangers, to the evolution of the spirit, all the while expounding the principles of the Bahá'í Faith.

• Century of Light - The Universal House of Justice

  The conclusion of the twentieth century provides Bahá'ís with a unique vantage point. During the past hundred years our world underwent changes far more profound than any in its preceding history, changes that are, for the most part, little understood by the present generation. These same hundred years saw the Bahá'í Cause emerge from obscurity, demonstrating on a global scale the unifying power with which its Divine origin has endowed it. As the century drew to its close, the convergence of these two historical developments became increasingly apparent.

• The Divine Art of Living - compiled by Mabel Hyde Paine, revised by Anne Marie Scheffer

  A collection of inspirational, encouraging passages from the Bahá'í writings offering seekers and Bahá'ís practical, spiritual guidance for achieving peace and harmony in one's personal life and in the world. Provides examples of how spiritual principles san be applied and raises a call to action.

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NEW BAHÁ'Í

• Summons of the Lord of Hosts - Bahá'u'lláh

  The present volume brings together the first full, authorized English translation of these major writings. Among them is the complete Súriy-i-Haykal, the Súrih of the Temple, one of Bahá'u'lláh's most challenging works. It was originally revealed during His banishment to Adrianople and later recast after His arrival in Akká. In this version He incorporated His messages addressed to individual potentates -- Pope Pius IX, Napoleon III, Czar Alexander II, Queen Victoria, and Násiri'd-Dín Sháh.

• Selections of the Writings of Abdu'l-Bahá - 'Abdu'l-Bahá

  A compilation of 236 passages from Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Bahá to the East and West. Published to "increase the fervor" of Bahá'ís and to "add to their perception of that wondrous harmony of the human and divine" that 'Abdu'l-Bahá exemplified.

• Tablets of the Divine Plan - 'Abdu'l-Bahá

  Fourteen Tablets from 'Abdu'l-Bahá to the Bahá'ís of the United States, Canada, and Greenland, constituting the charter for promulgating the Bahá'í Faith throughout the world. Summons Bahá'ís to diffuse the light of Bahá'u'lláh and erect the administrative fabric of His Faith throughout the globe. Provides guidance for hastening the advent of the Most Great Peace. Includes ten prayers.

• Advent of Divine Justice - Shoghi Effendi

  Shoghi Effendi's "celebrated letter" directed primarily toward exhorting Bahá'ís to "fulfill their responsibilities in teaching the Faith." Addressed to the Bahá'ís of the United States and Canada to guide them in carrying out the duties assigned in the Tablets of the Divine Plan, the letter gives specific guidance for North American Bahá'ís and offers "invaluable inspiration and guidance" for all.

• The World Order of Bahá'u'lláh - Shoghi Effendi

  Seven major letters of Shoghi Effendi presenting a clear vision of the Bahá'í Faith's role in social evolution, defining the Bahá'í administrative order as the nucleus and pattern of a new world order, and disclosing the full degree to which Bahá'u'lláh's message applies to all humanity. Shoghi Effendi presents the key to world civilization and challenges Bahá'ís to arise and play their part "in this greatest drama of the world's spiritual history."

• The Path Towards Spirituality: Sacred Duties and Practices of the Bahá'í Life - Shahin Vafai

  How do we attain true happiness? The question has been answered by Bahá'u'lláh in developing our spiritual nature. He has taught that we can develop spiritually by fulfilling the twin, inseparable duties of recognizing the Manifestation of God and observing the His ordinances. This book discusses the basic features of these duties and practices, which are "the essential requisites for our spiritual growth" and which "represent the path towards the attainment of true spirituality."

• Raising the Call: The Individual and Effective Teaching - Shahin Vafai

  A practical training guide on the subject of individual teaching. Includes spiritual preparation for teaching, acquiring knowledge to teach, finding receptive souls, presenting the Message, and confirming new believers.

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TOPICAL BOOKS

Race Unity

• The Power of Unity: Beyond Prejudice and Racism - compiled by Bonnie J. Taylor et. al.

  A compilation of Bahá'í writings intended to help American believers free themselves from racial prejudice and to achieve unity in diversity. The book calls for the protection, cultivation, and assimilation of all minorities in the Faith, as well as the unification of all humanity, which Shoghi Effendi calls "the most vital and challenging issue" facing American Bahá'ís.

Spiritualization

• Counsels of Perfection: A Bahá'í Guide to Mature Living - Genevieve Coy

  The fruit of a lifetime of rich experience this book teaches us to recognize self-love, and overcome it. It explains the problems of Consultation, drawing on the author's experience of a wide range of Bahá'í and non-Bahá'í assemblies and committees. Written with clarity and simplicity, this book is for those who are more interested in actions than words.

Family

• Bahá'í Marriage and Family Life - Selections from the Writings of the Bahá'í Faith

  This compilation is designed to help us prepare for marriage, to assist those of us already married, and to improve our family life. Nothing is more delightful than to visualize ourselves as entering into a relationship which 'Abdu'l-Bahá describes as "mutual attraction of mind and heart", "a tie that will endure forever".

• Marriage: A Fortress for Well-Being - edited by Daniel C. Jordan

  An examination of the Bahá'í teachings on marriage in the light of God's purpose for humanity. Presents the Bahá'í belief that marriage is based on the submission of both partners to the will of God, Who intended marriage to be "a fortress for well-being and salvation." Provides guidelines for applying spiritual principles to the realities of daily life and for nurturing a union that is fundamentally spiritual and based on the Bahá'í writings.

• Mothers, Fathers and Children: Practical Advice to Parents - Ali-Akbar Furutan

  A helpful book on rearing children according to Bahá'í principles while coping with daily challenges. The author approaches the subject with knowledge and zest and encourages parents to enjoy their children, to take a moral stand, and, above all, to realize that being a parent is an honorable activity.

• Prescription For Living - Rúhíyyih Rabbani

  A forthright statement of the spiritual laws that must be observed to bring about personal transformation. A challenging examination of the moral problems of Western civilization.

• The Virtues Guide: A Handbook for Parents Teaching Virtues - Linda Kavelin-Popov

  A handbook for bringing out the best in every child. Each day with children brings fresh opportunities for guiding them at "teachable moments" that pass quickly and may never again arise. Designed to help parents consciously and skillfully address their children's spiritual needs.

Prayer

• Prayer: A Bahá'í Approach - William and Madeline Hellaby

  Prayer is described here as a living reality and "How can we practice the presence of God?" asks the author. Describing with honesty, good sense and humor the various obstacles to effective praying, she finds insight in quotations and examples drawn both from the Bahá'í Writings and from a wealth of religious literature, history, and day-to-day experience.

Early History

• God Passes By - Shoghi Effendi

  Here is a history of our times written on an unfamiliar theme - a history filled with love and happiness and vision and strength, telling of triumphs gained and wider triumphs yet to come: and whatever it holds of darkest tragedy it leaves mankind at its close not facing a grim inhospitable future but marching out from the shadows on the high road of an inevitable destiny towards the opened gates of the Promised City of Eternal Peace.

• The Dawn-Breakers: Nabíl's Narrative - translated by Shoghi Effendi

  The authoritative, dramatic eyewitness account of the early years of the Bahá'í Era. More than a history, the book is recommended by Shoghi Effendi as an "unchallengeable textbook," a "source of inspiration in all literary artistic pursuits," "an invaluable companion in times of leisure," an "indispensable preliminary" to pilgrimage to Bahá'u'lláh's native land, and an "unfailing instrument" to allay distress and resist the attacks of a "critical, disillusioned humanity."

• The Báb: The Herald of the Day of Days - H. M. Balyuzi

  A comprehensive biography of the Forerunner and Herald of the Bahá'í Faith and the Inaugurator of a new universal cycle. Written by one of the foremost Bahá'í scholars, a relative of the Báb, the book makes use of many official documents and cites material gathered from family archives.

• Bahá'u'lláh: The King of Glory - H. M. Balyuzi

  A full-length biography of the Bahá'í Faith, extensively researched and illustrated. Includes information not available elsewhere in English.

• 'Abdu'l-Bahá: The Center of the Covenant of Bahá'u'lláh - H. M. Balyuzi

  The only comprehensive biography in English of Bahá'u'lláh's son and successor, the magnetic figure Whose daily life exemplified the Bahá'í teachings. Over 250 pages detail His extensive travels during the early part of the century in North America and Europe after His release from 40 years of imprisonment.

• Release the Sun - Dr. William Sears

  This book gives the early history of the Faith up through the hour of the martyrdom of its Herald, the Báb. It does not present all of the drama of this epic, nor does it give word for word the exciting stories told during those memorable days. (Refer to God Passes By or The Dawn-Breakers) It merely offers a simplified version of a story too long neglected and overlooked by man in his search for peace of mind and satisfaction of soul.

Memoirs and Recollections

• The Chosen Highway - Lady Blomfield

  A narrative of events which present and future ages will treasure. The author was privileged to enjoy close association with the family of Bahá'u'lláh on her visits to the Holy Land. She carefully recorded the stories told to her of lives which outwardly were beset by sever trails and afflictions, but inwardly were aflame with love and light and compassion for humanity.

• God Loves Laughter - Dr. William Sears

  The hilarious stories of a poor boy from the mid-west who became one of America's top flight TV stars. But he was bothered with a boyhood dream and eventually left the big time. Through all the laughter in these stories there is an underlying serious note, and the fact that his dream came true and brought him long-sought spiritual assurance give a considerable satisfaction to the reader.

• Olya's Story - Olya Roohizadegan

  A survivor's dramatic account of the persecution of Bahá'ís in revolutionary Iran. Amid escalating violence in the early 1980s, Olya Roohizadegan saw friends, neighbors, and relatives imprisoned, tortured, and executed. As one of their fellow-prisoners, she pledged to tell the world the truth about their suffering, love, and sacrifice. Ten years after her harrowing escape to the West, she tells a story of the triumph of faith, humor, and love in the face of some of the most severe trials that can confront the human spirit.

• Portals of Freedom - Howard Colby Ives

  An incomparable, historically unique account of 'Abdu'l-Bahá's visit to America by one of His own disciples, a story that may well come to be regarded as the most significant and outstanding event in American history.

Christianity

• Some Answered Questions - 'Abdu'l-Bahá, translated by Laura Clifford Barney

  The talks between 'Abdu'l-Bahá and Laura Clifford Barney took place during the difficult years, 1904-1906, when He was confined to the city of Akká by the Turkish government and permitted to receive only a few visitors. At the time He was under constant threat of removal to a distant desert confinement.

• Christ and Bahá'u'lláh - George Townshend

  Could it be that the confusion and stress and the oppression and darkness of our day are the fulfillment of all the signs and portents that Christ gave to His followers? The author of this book certainly believes so. He concludes that Christ has returned in the person of Bahá'u'lláh with a grand redemptive scheme by which the whole human race will achieve maturity in a world order embracing the entire planet. Excellent for teaching Christians and for deepening.

• Prince of Peace - Dr. William Sears

  This Christmas story will warm and comfort your troubled heart. It will bring serenity and peace into your home exactly as promised by those words of Isaiah: "Ho, everyone that thirsteth come to the waters" and drink your fill, "free and without a price." It is a message of hope and encouragement filled with good cheer and good news.

• Thief in the Night: The Case of the Missing Millennium - Dr. William Sears

  An introduction to Bahá'u'lláh as the One foretold in the scriptures of the world. Written in the style of a mystery, the book engages the reader's interest from the first page. Includes over four hundred quotations from the Bible.

Bahá'í Administration

• Bahá'í Administration- Shoghi Effendi

  This book consists primarily of the author's messages to the Bahá'ís of America, or to their National Spiritual Assembly, during the years when that National Assembly and several others were formed. Herein he outlines the fundamental principles upon which the institutions of the Faith are to be established, based upon the Revelation of Bahá'u'lláh and the Will and Testament of His Son, 'Abdu'l-Bahá.

• Consultation: A Universal Lamp of Guidance - John Kolstoe

  An examination of the process and purpose of consultation, the Bahá'í method of decision-making. Discusses the use of consultation in Bahá'í administration as well as in personal, family, social, and business life. Also discusses how to cope with obstacles to consultation.

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