the other islands in Japan, and hopes that this initial effort will be
carefully followed up, and that the Message of Baha'u'llah will be carried
to all the Japanese islands--and those in their neighbourhood--including
Sakhalin, which is one of the few remaining virgin territories to be
opened under the Ten-Year Plan.
The extraordinary progress made in the Far East and the Pacific area has
been a constant source of pride and joy to the Guardian, and he feels
confident that the door has opened on a new era in the advancement of our
beloved Faith in these promising regions, and, indeed, all over the world.
To the degree to which the friends consecrate themselves to the teaching
work will directly depend the results they achieve during this year and
coming years.
The beloved Guardian assures you all of his loving and continued prayers
for the success of your work, for your strength, guidance and protection.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
Dear and valued co-workers:
The formation of the Regional Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of North
East Asia is to be acclaimed as an event of far-reaching historic
significance, whose repercussions cannot be confined to the Pacific area,
but are bound to affect the immediate fortunes of the entire Baha'i world.
The emergence of this epochal institution, however transitional its
character, represents the culmination of a fifty-year old process that has
had its inception in the days of the Centre of the Covenant, during the
last decades of the Heroic Age of the Baha'i Dispensation. The rise and
expansion of the Administrative Order of the Faith in the northern regions
of the vast Pacific Ocean fills a great gap, and constitutes a notable
parallel to the rise of similar institutions in the Antipodes,
establishing thereby a spiritual equilibrium destined to affect, to a
marked degree, the destinies of the Faith throughout the islands of the
Pacific Ocean, in the years immediately ahead. It should be hailed,
moreover, as a momentous development paving the way for the eventual
introduction of the Faith into the far-flung Chinese mainland and, beyond
it, to the extensive territories of Soviet Russia.
A milestone of such tremendous significance in the progress of the Faith
of Baha'u'llah, in so strategic and important an area of the globe, should
be acclaimed by the members of your assembly, as well as by the rank and
file of the believers throughout that area, as a demonstration of the
creative energies released by its Author and the Centre of His Covenant,
in territories and amidst peoples and races destined to play a role of
immense significance in the future development of the human race.
This God-given opportunity, now presenting itself to the prosecutors of
the Baha'i world Spiritual Crusade, at so critical a stage in the history
of the peoples and nations established in those far-off islands and
territories, should be seized with eagerness and enthusiasm, and exploited
to the full in the years lying immediately ahead.
The Six-Year Plan, designed to lend a tremendous impetus to the awakening
of the peoples and races in those regions, should be prosecuted with the
utmost diligence, unrelaxing vigilance and whole-hearted consecration. All
must participate, young and old alike, both men and women, however limited
their circumstances or circumscribed their resources.
An effort, unprecedented in its scope and intensity, must be exerted to
attain, speedily and completely the specific objectives of this Plan. The
number of the avowed supporters of the Faith must rapidly increase. The
isolated centers, groups and local assemblies, constituting the bedrock of
a rising Administrative Order, must steadily and continually multiply. All
firmly grounded local spiritual assemblies must be speedily incorporated,
in order to reinforce the foundations of the institution of this divinely
conceived Order. The Baha'i marriage certificate, as well as the Baha'i
Holy Days must, at the earliest possible opportunity, receive recognition
from the civil authorities concerned. The work now being initiated in the
Northern and smaller islands of Japan, with such zeal and devotion should
be constantly reinforced and its scope continually widened. The literature
of the Faith must be translated into as many languages as possible,
published and widely disseminated. The holding of the summer-schools is
yet another objective that should receive the earnest and immediate
attention of the members of your assembly. The purchase of Baha'i
burial-grounds, should, moreover, be, in due course considered and
effectively carried out. The newly-opened territories, that have been so
painstakingly brought within the pale of the Faith, must at whatever cost,
be safeguarded, and the enterprises initiated within their confines
carefully expanded and consolidated. The acquisition of a plot, in the
outskirts of Tokyo, to serve as the site of the first
Ma_sh_riqu'l-A_dh_kar of North East Asia, must, likewise, be seriously
considered and brought to a successful conclusion.
The task challenging the spirit and resources of your assembly, as well as
those whom you represent, is admittedly arduous, pressing and sacred. The
field in which you operate is exceptionally vast, and the barriers
standing in your way are varied and formidable. Nothing short of complete
dedication to the objectives of the Six-Year Plan you are called upon to
fulfill, and of the utmost self-sacrifice on your part, as well as on the
part of those who are to participate in its prosecution, can ensure the
success to which I confidently look forward, to which your sister, as well
as parent, communities throughout the Baha'i world, are likewise, eagerly
anticipating.
May those who are privileged, at this auspicious hour, to render so noble
a service to the Cause of God, and fulfill so glorious a destiny, in the
course of the evolution of so sacred and precious a Faith, arise to
perform befittingly their task, and achieve such feats in the days to come
as shall draw forth from the Source on high a still greater measure of
divine blessings that will enable them to write a still more brilliant
chapter in the annals of God's infant Faith, and to contribute an
outstanding share to the world-wide establishment and ultimate recognition
of its newly-born administrative institutions.
Shoghi
(July 15, 1957)
[Cable dated August 27, 1957]
Congratulate attendants historic summerschool(32) fervently praying
expansion valued activities
Love, Shoghi
(cable dated August 27, 1957)
[Letter of October 20, 1957]
He (the Guardian) was greatly pleased to learn of the contacts which have
been made by the friends with the original natives of Japan, namely the
Ainu people. He hopes that some of them will be quickened in the Faith so
that they may teach the call of God to the remainder of their people.
There is no doubt that great results will be achieved if this can be done.
Therefore the Guardian hopes your Assembly will take some very active
measures to insure the teaching of the Faith amongst this Tribe.
The Guardian will pray for you and will pray for the success of your
labors.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(October 20, 1957)
To the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, 1951-1956
[Letter of February 29, 1951]
He (the Guardian) feels there is no definite action that can be taken by
the Tokyo Spiritual Assembly against ... any society which uses our Baha'i
ideas and principles. The best thing is for the Japanese believers,
through strengthening their community, enlarging it, obtaining publicity
in the press, and holding, whenever possible, dignified public meetings,
to gradually assert themselves as the real body of the Faith, and make
everything else appear to be mere plagiarism, a shadow of the Faith. Your
Assembly should give them (the Japanese believers) as much moral support
and encouragement as possible.
(February 29, 1951)
The Guardian attaches great importance to the teaching conference(33) ...
and feels that as many friends as possible should attend. He thinks it
will be a great stimulant to the Faith, and certainly foundations can be
laid for the rapid expansion of the Cause... This will be a historic
event, and one that should lay the foundation for great victories in the
future.
The beloved Guardian has approved the attendance of one of the Hands of
the Cause in Asia ... Mr. Zikru'llah _Kh_adem...
(July, 1955)
[Letter of November 20, 1955]
Your loving letter was received (with the) copy of Miss Linfoot's report
to the National Assembly concerning the Teaching Conference held in Japan.
The Guardian was greatly delighted with the Conference and its results;
more particularly with the effect which it is going to have on the
teaching work of the entire area in the future.
It was a very historic gathering, because it marked the first time a
general conference regarding teaching matters had been held in Japan, and
furthermore was participated in by representatives of the other countries
in the area. It released a new power of the Spirit in that part of the
world which will certainly elevate the minds and hearts of the people and
attract many to the Cause.
The Guardian appreciates the sacrificial efforts made by all those who
undertook the development of the Conference, so that it might produce such
beneficial results.
The Guardian is hopeful that the conditions in Japan may not force many of
the pioneers to leave that territory. As you know, he attaches the utmost
importance to the teaching work in Japan; he anticipates that the Faith
will spread rapidly in that country. The help of the American Baha'is is
very essential; and he hopes therefore it will not be necessary for any of
them to leave.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(November 20, 1955)
[Letter of December 27, 1956]
The beloved Guardian feels the time is ripe for the settlement of the
Northern Island of Japan, and he wishes your Assembly to consider what
might be done to accomplish this before the coming Ridvan without in any
way interfering with the work now engaged in, in connection with the
establishment of the new National Assembly next Ridvan.
There are three tasks which the new National Assembly should undertake,
when it is formed, and that is the sending of pioneers into Sakhalin
Island, and Hainan Island; also the extension of the teaching work in the
Northern Island (Hokkaido) of Japan. If no settlers are in the Northern
Island, then they should undertake to send some in as quickly as possible.
Will you please actively consider the settlement now of the Northern
Island; also pass on to the new N.S.A. the three tasks the Guardian feels
they should undertake promptly.
(December 27, 1956)
To the National Spiritual Assembly of Australia
[Letter of July 19, 1957]
...The emergence of a new Regional Spiritual Assembly in the North Pacific
Area(34), with its seat fixed in the capital city of a country which by
reason of its innate capacity and the spiritual receptivity it has
acquired, in consequence of the severe and prolonged ordeal its entire
population has providentially experienced, is destined to have a
preponderating share in awakening the peoples and races inhabiting the
entire Pacific area, to the Message of Baha'u'llah, and to act as the
Vanguard of His hosts in their future spiritual conquest of the main body
of the yellow race on the Chinese mainland--the emergence of such an
assembly may be said to have, at long last established a spiritual axis,
extending from the Antipodes to the northern islands of the Pacific
Ocean--an axis whose northern and southern poles will act as powerful
magnets, endowed with exceptional spiritual potency, and towards which
younger and less experienced communities will tend for some time to
gravitate.
A responsibility, at once weighty and inescapable, must rest on the
communities which occupy so privileged a position in so vast and turbulent
an area of the globe. However great the distance that separates them;
however much they differ in race, language, custom, and religion; however
active the political forces which tend to keep them apart and foster
racial and political antagonisms, the close and continued association of
these communities in their common, their peculiar and paramount task of
raising up and of consolidating the embryonic World Order of Baha'u'llah
in those regions of the globe, is a matter of vital and urgent importance,
which should receive on the part of the elected representatives of their
communities, a most earnest and prayerful consideration...
May this community(35) which, with its sister community in the North, has
had the inestimable privilege of being called into being in the lifetime
of, and through the operation of the dynamic forces released by the Center
of Baha'u'llah's Covenant continue, with undimmed vision, with redoubled
vigour, and unwavering fidelity and constancy, to discharge its manifold
and ever increasing duties and responsibilities, and lend, as the days go
by, an impetus such as it has not lent before, in the course of almost two
score years of its existence, to the propagation of the Faith it has so
whole-heartedly espoused and is now so valiantly serving, and play a
memorable and distinctive part in hastening the establishment, and in
ensuring the gradual efflorescence and ultimate fruition, of its divinely
appointed embryonic World Order.
(July 19, 1957)
To the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran
[Letter of January 6, 1957]
Regarding pioneers going to Japan, Brazil ... and other places, the
beloved Guardian states that they must not gather in one place but scatter
to make new centers, e.g., Mr. Assassi and his wife, and Mr. Labib who
travelled to Japan must not stay in Tokyo but should go to places where
there are no Baha'is, or very few Baha'is to make new centers. Furthermore
(he) says that the National Spiritual Assembly of Iran must write to all
pioneers that have left Iran for other parts of the world and instruct
them not to gather in one place but to scatter in different places. He
says that the matter stated above is very important... (translated from
the original Persian)
(signed by Dr. Hakim)
(January 6, 1957)
To Local Spiritual Assemblies, 1948-1957
[Letter of September 21, 1948]
To the Local Spiritual Assembly of Tokyo
To know that a Spiritual Assembly of all Japanese members was formed in
Tokyo greatly inspired him (the Guardian). This is a historic and
wonderful achievement. At present it might seem to people of the world
that these few devoted souls are insignificant when compared to the
millions of people residing in Japan--but we who have recognized the Power
of Baha'u'llah, and that His teaching is God's Message to men in this day,
know that the seed of the Tree of Life has at last germinated in your
land, and that it will grow to overshadow all those who dwell in the
islands of Japan.
The love of the Japanese people, for truth and beauty is very great, and
our Guardian feels sure that gradually many souls will become attracted to
the Cause of God through your persevering and devoted labours.
Your loyalty and determination touches him deeply, and he assures you all
that for each one of you he will pray for guidance and blessings. He urges
you to work together for the Cause as one soul in different bodies, and
show by your love and unity what a force lies in our Faith for the
regeneration of mankind.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
Dear and valued co-workers:
I was thrilled by your message and I greatly value the sentiments it
expressed. I urge you to persevere and be confident, and labour unitedly
for the spread of the Faith and the formation of new centres, however
small, in the vicinity of your capital. I will, from all my heart,
supplicate for you Divine guidance and blessings, that your historic work
may flourish, your numbers increase and your highest hopes be fulfilled in
the service of His glorious Faith.
Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi
(September 21, 1948)
[Letter of December 20, 1951]
The beloved Guardian has received your letter, so beautifully written in
Japanese, and which he regrets very much he could not read in the
original.
He very deeply appreciated the contribution the Baha'is of Japan have made
for the Shrine of the Bab; and I am enclosing a receipt herein for the sum
you mentioned in your letter, ten thousand yen.
The sentiments expressed by the Baha'is of Japan touched him very deeply;
and he feels that the contribution they have made to the Shrine enriches
its spiritual significance for all of us, coming, as it does, from
believers in the Bab, our beloved Martyr-Prophet, who reside in a land so
far away, and yet are filled with such great love and devotion for, not
only the Bab Himself, but for the Faith He heralded.
The Guardian is most happy over the progress being made in Japan; and he
wants you to know that his loving thoughts are with you, and you are
mentioned often in his prayers in the Holy Shrines.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
May the Beloved bless you, sustain and guide you, reward you for your
meritorious labours, and aid you to win great victories in the service of
His Faith.
Your true brother, Shoghi
(December 20, 1951)
[Letter of April 14, 1952]
Your gracious letter of March 20th, conveying Naw-Ruz greetings to the
beloved Guardian has been received, and gave the Guardian the utmost of
happiness. It revealed anew the power of Baha'u'llah, that in that far off
land, the banner of His Grace has been raised so effectively, and the
friends have been quickened by the new spirit of unity which is sweeping
the world.
The Guardian will pray at the Holy Shrines that the powers of the Holy
Spirit will inspire and sustain you in your labors for the spread of the
true teachings of brotherhood, and the spiritual elevation of the people
of Japan.
Today, the head corner-stone of service to the Faith of Baha'u'llah is
teaching. It is the source of divine blessings. The beloved Guardian feels
your consecration to this most important of all Baha'i activities will
achieve new goals and win many victories for the Faith.
He sends his loving greetings to each one of you, who will ever be in his
heart.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(April 14, 1952)
[Letter of August 30, 1952]
It always brings joy to the heart of our beloved Guardian to receive news
from you, as he is so happy over the remarkable growth of the Faith in
Japan since the end of the war. He has instructed me to answer on his
behalf your letter of July 12.
Plans for future works in Japan will certainly form part of the general
plan for Asia, which will be discussed at the New Delhi Conference in
October 1953. He would be very happy if some of the friends from Japan
could attend this historic gathering.
He was delighted to hear that your Assembly is undertaking extension
teaching work in other Japanese cities; as Tokyo is the mother Assembly,
her responsibility is great. He was particularly glad to hear teaching
will be done in Hiroshima, where the people suffered so mercilessly during
the war; they have a special right--the people of that city--to hear of
Baha'u'llah's Message of peace and brotherhood.
The Assembly of Tokyo, until such time as other local assemblies are
formed, can receive the applications for enrollment from people living
elsewhere. Anyone living outside the civic limits of Tokyo, however,
cannot be a voting member of that community, but of course, may attend
meetings and Feasts until a local nucleus is established.
The Guardian was particularly happy to note that there are so many
Japanese Baha'is; although the American friends have rendered a great
service in Japan, the object of all teachings is to establish firmly the
Faith of God in the hearts and lives of the people of the country. He
hopes that special efforts will be made to teach the Japanese, and to
provide them with Baha'i literature in their own language, and to conduct
meetings in Japanese, and also to encourage them to understand the
Administration and take an active, constructive part in its workings.
Without a proper understanding of the Administrative Order, extensive
plans cannot be undertaken and harmony will not prevail within the
community.
He (the Guardian) will remember you in all his prayers, and is most
pleased with your progress and your devoted spirit.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
May the Almighty bless your high and persistent endeavours, guide every
step you take in the path of service, and enable you to extend continually
the range of your splendid activities, and win great and memorable
victories for His Cause.
Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi
(August 30, 1952)
[Letter of July 24, 1953]
The beloved Guardian has said that the future of Japan from every
standpoint is very bright indeed. The Faith will spread rapidly in Japan,
once the public become acquainted with its universal principles, and its
dynamic spirit.
What is necessary at this time is for the Baha'is to adhere firmly to the
teachings of the Faith, and to become a clear channel through which the
power of the Holy Spirit might disseminate itself throughout the country.
So far as the Ananai-kyo Movement is concerned, and their desire for
affiliation:
The Baha'is may associate with Movements such as this, without becoming
supporters and active workers therein; the object being to make friendly
contacts which can be developed into firm Baha'is.
So far as non-Baha'is affiliating with the Baha'i Faith is concerned,
either a person becomes a Baha'i and accepts Baha'u'llah as the divine
Manifestation for this day or he does not. The tenets of the Baha'i Faith
are simple as outlined by the Guardian, but they do not permit any
variations. In other words, if any members of the Ananai-kyo Movement wish
to become Baha'is; they will be most welcome; but they can only become
Baha'is on the basis of accepting Baha'u'llah as a divine Manifestation,
and of course, with this goes the acceptance of the Bab as the
Fore-runner, and 'Abdu'l-Baha as the Center of the Covenant, and the
present Administrative Order.
When a person has reached the sea of immortality, it is idle to keep
seeking elsewhere; and when the members of the Ananai-kyo Movement reach
Baha'u'llah in their search for a world teacher, they have reached the
goal, and not another step along the path.
I presume you have received by this time full details concerning the Ten
Year Crusade, and the Plan which the Guardian has enunciated for the
American National Assembly to assist in the development of the Faith in
Japan, so that ultimately there may be a National Spiritual Assembly of
the Baha'is in Japan itself.
The American National Spiritual Assembly has appointed a special committee
for the Asian countries, and I am quite sure you will find the very
closest possible cooperation from them in the development of the work.
You will find, as the Extension Teaching work in Japan moves forward,
there will have to be constant and continuous consultation with this
important committee.
You can appreciate it will be entirely impossible for the International
Council or the staff of the Guardian himself, to undertake the supervision
of the teaching work in any one part of the world; furthermore it would be
contrary to the general principle of Baha'i administration. Under Baha'i
administration, Local Assemblies, and the development of teaching work are
placed in the hands of National Assemblies. The National Assemblies
themselves report directly to Haifa--to the Universal House of Justice,
when it is established; and until that time, to the Guardian himself.
At the instruction of the Guardian, I am communicating with the American
National Spiritual Assembly, to ask them to set up a program, whereby
there will be the closest possible collaboration between their Asia
Teaching Committee and your own Assembly. I hope this will be the means of
all data reaching you very promptly.
The beloved Guardian asked me to convey to you his deep love. He
appreciates and values very highly your devoted services to the Faith. He
will pray at the Holy Shrines, for your guidance and confirmation. It is
his hope that heavenly blessings may be with you at all times, and every
obstacle in the path of your efforts to continually spread the Message in
Japan may be removed, so that you may ultimately gain complete victory.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(July 24, 1953)
[Letter of November 26, 1953]
The Guardian is hopeful that some day it may be possible for the Baha'is
of Tokyo to establish their Hazira; and of course if this were done, some
day it will become the National Hazira, because when the National
Spiritual Assembly is formed in Japan, Tokyo will no doubt be the seat of
the National Assembly.
Shoghi Effendi feels that the time has now come when the Faith will spread
rapidly in Japan. The Japanese people have great vision and spirituality,
and the difficulties of the last war have prepared many of them for the
Divine Guidance. He therefore urges each and every one of you to treble
your efforts, so that the Cause may grow and develop rapidly.
He sends his loving greetings to you, and assures you all of his prayers
in your behalf.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(November 26, 1953)
[Letter of March 2, 1954]
The beloved Guardian sends his loving greetings to each and every one of
the friends in Japan. He greatly values their devotion and sacrifice for
the Faith, and the noble manner in which they are arising to spread the
Teachings in that land.
He feels the future of Japan is very great. The hearts and minds of the
Japanese people are awakened; and if the teaching work is carried on very
actively and audaciously, many souls will be attracted by the Divine
Fragrances.
The beloved Guardian is so confident that the Faith will spread rapidly in
Japan, and the believers will firmly establish the institutions of the
Cause, that he has chosen to send to them for ultimate display in their
National Haziratu'l-Quds in Tokyo one of the very precious relics from the
Shrine of Baha'u'llah. He has entrusted with our dear brother, Hiroyasu
Takano, a very precious brocade, which has rested immediately over the
remains of Baha'u'llah in His glorious Shrine. It is very precious and
very sacred.
The Guardian is sending this to the Spiritual Assembly of Tokyo as a gift.
The friends may wish to have it carefully and beautifully framed for
display in the Hazira, when it is acquired. Ultimately of course it is to
be hung in the Hazira of the National Assembly, when that great goal has
been achieved by the Japanese believers.
The beloved Guardian assures each and every one of you of his prayers in
your behalf.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(March 2, 1954)
[Letter of May 29, 1954]
The beloved Guardian was pleased to see the manner in which the Assembly
has undertaken its responsibility of enthusing the believers to carry on
teaching work throughout Japan in an aggressive manner.
The keynote of activity during the second year of the Ten-Year Crusade is
the multiplication of Assemblies, groups and isolated centers. The
Guardian feels the time is ripe for the active spread of the Faith
throughout Japan; and if pioneers and settlers will go to additional
cities and very actively teach the Faith, they will find that the Cause
will grow and develop in each of these new areas.
You should not overlook the fact that one of the goals of the Ten-Year
Crusade is the establishment of a National Assembly in Japan. This can be
brought about more quickly if the friends set aside all other
considerations and actively teach the Faith.
The sacred gift which the Guardian sent to the Japanese Baha'is through
Mr. Takano is of course for the Hazira as soon as it is procured. It is
one of the very sacred relics, and the Guardian hopes it will be a source
of inspiration to the friends to redouble their efforts in the teaching
field.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(May 29, 1954)
[Letter of June 7, 1954]
The beloved Guardian sends his loving greetings to each and every one of
you. He is praying for the success of your teaching work. He feels the
time is ripe for a rapid expansion of the Faith in Japan; and that if
everyone will arise with renewed effort, they will be surprised at the
spiritual victories which they will achieve.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(June 7, 1954)
[Letter of June 8, 1954]
Please refer to our previous correspondence with regard to the purchase of
a Haziratu'l-Quds in Tokyo. The beloved Guardian feels this is a matter of
great importance, and should be accomplished during the present year.
He has written to the American N.S.A. in detail concerning the matter,
instructing them to proceed at once with the development of this project,
so that it may be concluded during the present year, if at all possible.
The beloved Guardian is sending a contribution of L500. As you know, a
Haziratu'l-Quds was given by Mr. Momtazi in Mukonoso, Hyogo-ken. The
Guardian would see no objection to this Haziratu'l-Quds being sold, and
the fund received thereby being used to defray the cost of the
Haziratu'l-Quds in Tokyo. It is far more important that a Hazira be
established in Tokyo, which is the seat of the future National Assembly,
than in Mukonoso, Hyogo-ken. Of course this can only be done in case Mr.
Momtazi is entirely agreeable.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(June 8, 1954)
[Letter of July 19, 1954]
Your loving letter ... has just come to hand, telling of the funds which
you have available now, since the generous gift of Mr. N. Momtazi, for the
Haziratu'l-Quds in Tokyo.
You have in mind that the Hazira need not be an elaborate place. It should
be a building which you own, and which can be used now as the
Haziratu'l-Quds for the Local Tokyo Assembly, to be utilized later as the
National Haziratu'l-Quds for the National Spiritual Assembly when it is
formed.
The important thing is that this piece of property should be acquired for
as reasonable a price as possible.
The Guardian will await with expectation, advice from you as to the
acquisition of this important piece of property(36) .
The Guardian sends each one his loving greetings.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(July 19, 1954)
[Letter of September 26, 1955]
Your loving letter ... has come to hand, giving the latest information
concerning the International Teaching Conference which was to be held at
Nikko, September 23, 24, and 25.
From the word we have received, the Conference must have been a great
success with so many being present, and representing so many different
countries. As I understand it, there were representatives of nine
different nations.
The Guardian has attached the greatest importance to this Conference, as
it is the first to be held in Japan, and is therefore a great historic
event. Let us hope the teaching work will develop rapidly in Japan, so
that there may be a large number of Assemblies and groups established who
may take part in the election of the National Assembly.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(September 26, 1955)
[Letter of April 24, 1956]
It was a great pleasure to have some of the friends from Japan here, and
particularly to get dear Fujita back again.
The Guardian is particularly happy over the news conveyed by Mr. Momtazi
for the formation of seven new Assemblies. This is a great step forward in
the progress of the work, not only in Japan, but in the Pacific area; and
augurs well for the formation of the Regional National Assembly with Japan
as the hub, which is to be elected next Ridvan.
The Japanese believers are often in his thoughts and prayers, and he is
proud of their achievements, and cherishes great hopes for their future.
He will pray that your Assembly may be instrumental in bringing in many
new souls during the coming year.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
May the Almighty, whose Cause you serve so devotedly, aid you to extend
continually the scope of your valued activities, and enable you to win
great victories in the days to come.
Your true brother, Shoghi
(April 24, 1956)
[Letter of June 11, 1956]
He (the Guardian) was very happy to receive the copies of the Japanese
Geppo. They are historic, marking the first Baha'i Newsletters to be
published in that country. He hopes its scope will gradually widen, and it
become a most effective means of stimulating the friends in Japan in
service to the Cause of God.
Great victories have been won by the friends in Japan. He hopes during the
short period between now, and when the new National Assembly is formed,
the friends will treble their efforts, so many many souls may find eternal
life, through the teaching services of the true servants of God.
As Baha'u'llah has stated, true victory is winning the hearts of men to
the Cause of God. The Guardian is praying for many more such glorious
victories, so the Faith may be firmly established in that far off land,
which has such a bright and promising future.
The Guardian will pray for the friends, for the success of their work. He
sends his loving greetings.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(June 11, 1956)
[Letter of April 19, 1957]
The various materials which you sent to the Guardian he has read with
great interest--the pamphlet on the recent Congress of Religions held in
Tokyo, the English summaries of the important Baha'i News Geppo, and your
report of the progress of the Faith in that promising country.
The Guardian is looking forward with keen anticipation to the forthcoming
Ridvan period, as it marks the establishment of thirteen new National
Assemblies; the most important of which are in the Pacific area; the one
centered in Tokyo, the one in Djakarta, and the third in New Zealand.
The Guardian is well pleased with the teaching work in Japan. He hopes
this branch of your service will be greatly reinforced and stimulated by
the establishment of the new National Assembly.
He will pray for the friends, for Japan, and for the success of the labors
of the Faithful.
He sends his loving greetings.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(April 19, 1957)
To the Local Spiritual Assembly of Hyogo-ken (prefecture]
[Letter of January 2, 1956]
It is indeed a great privilege for the Baha'is of Japan, so remote from
the Holy Land, to have two of their most devoted teachers come to Haifa on
pilgrimage; and he (the Guardian) feels sure that they will carry back to
the work in that important Center in the Pacific area a fresh impetus and
a new inspiration.
It is also a source of great satisfaction to him that dear Fujita has
returned to serve here. It brings the Japanese believers even closer to
the International Center to have a representative of their nation working
for the Cause at its World Center.
He assures you all that he will pray for the success, not only of the work
in Hyogo-ken, but throughout Japan, and urges you and your co-workers to
persevere in the face of every obstacle.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
May the Almighty remove all obstacles from your path, enable you to lend a
great impetus to the onward march of His Faith, and contribute to the
consolidation of His institutions.
Your true brother, Shoghi
(January 2, 1956)
[Photograph with the following caption:]
The first International Teaching Conference in Nikko, Japan, 1955. Mr.
Fujita is holding the frame containing the "Greatest Name". Hand of the
Cause Mr. _Kh_adem, who was the Guardian's representative, is behind Mr.
Fujita. Miss Alexander is holding the picture of 'Abdu'l-Baha. This
conference marked a turning point in the Baha'i Faith in Asia, especially
in Japan.
13: Letters to Individuals
Excerpts from letters to Japanese believers, 1947-1957
[Letter of October 15, 1947]
To Mr. Saichiro Fujita
After so many years of silence our beloved Guardian was very happy to
receive your postcard.
He is very glad to see you are not only safe after all these terrible
years of war and privation, but that you are seeking to establish a center
of the Faith where you live. He assures you he will pray that your efforts
may be successful, and that you may become the father of the first
spiritual assembly there.
Your long services in Haifa are not forgotten, and the Guardian sends you
his greetings.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(October 15, 1947)
[Letter of October 6, 1950]
The excellent progress the Cause is making is a delight to his (the
Guardian's) heart, and he feels very close to the Japanese believers.
Now that our dear Agnes Alexander is with you again out there (in Japan),
he feels still greater progress will be made. You and she, both old and
tried believers, must devote particular attention to strengthening the
faith of the new souls, and giving them a firm foundation in the Covenant.
You are often affectionately remembered here.
(signed by "Ruhiyyih")
(October 6, 1950)
[Letter of March 21, 1952]
To Mrs. Kyoko Hongo
He (the Guardian) is very happy to hear that you and your husband have
become declared Baha'is; and he will ardently pray in the Holy Shrines
that each of you may become an active and devoted servant of Baha'u'llah,
and may be assisted in bringing many souls in that land to the light of
this great Faith, and carry on the work nobly started by the dear
Davenports.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(March 21, 1952)
[Letter of April 22, 1952]
To Mr. Tameo Hongo
It brings him (the Guardian) great joy to realize that we see before our
eyes the promises of Baha'u'llah being fulfilled, and the peoples of East
and West embracing as lovers, and united in the service of God and of man.
He feels that the Japanese people, so sensitive to every form of beauty
both spiritual and material, will have a deep appreciation of the
Teachings of Baha'u'llah, not only because of their truth and justice, but
because of the great beauty which permeates them, a beauty which will
gradually, through the fulfillment of His prophecies and the practice of
His Laws and Principles, permeate the life of mankind, and create a
society such as has never been dreamed of before.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(April 22, 1952)
[Letter of October 5, 1953]
To Mr. Michitoshi Zenimoto
Your letter has been received by the beloved Guardian and he has
instructed me to answer you on his behalf.
Baha'u'llah wrote, many, many years ago: "The vitality of men's belief in
God is dying out in every land; nothing short of His wholesome medicine
can ever restore it. The corrosion of ungodliness is eating into the
vitals of human society; what else but the Elixir of His potent Revelation
can cleanse and revive it?"
This is the ebb of the tide. The Baha'is know that the tide will turn and
come in, after mankind has suffered, with mighty waves of faith and
devotion. The people will enter the Cause of God in troops, and the whole
condition will change. The Baha'is see this new condition which will take
place, as one on the mountain-top sees the first glimpse of the dawn,
before others are aware of it; and it is toward that that the Baha'is must
work.
The Guardian will pray that you may be instrumental in bringing many of
your fellow-youth into the Faith. He sends you his loving greetings.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(October 5, 1953)
[Letter of December 30, 1955]
To Miss Yoshiko Morita
The photograph of the Japanese Baha'is, who attended the conference
recently held in Nikko, brought great joy to his (the Guardian's) heart.
Although the American and Persian friends are helping greatly the spread
of the Faith in Japan, the main object of their presence in that country
is to attract Japanese people to the Cause of God. Only when the Faith is
firmly rooted in the hearts of the people of that country can we feel that
true progress has been made; and therefore to see there are so many
Japanese believers, active and devoted in different places in Japan, has
been a great comfort and joy to our Guardian.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(December 30, 1955)
[Letter of September 19, 1957]
To Mrs. Masao Konishi
The time is too short to spend years preparing yourself to teach by the
indirect approach. The world is ready for the direct Message, and it would
be much better to equip yourself to do direct Baha'i teaching.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(September 19, 1957)
The following excerpts are from letters to pioneers to Japan and Korea,
1948-1957
[Letter of January 21, 1948]
To Mr. Robert Imagire
He (the Guardian) notices in your last letter that you sound discouraged.
But he feels you should look on the bright side of the work in Japan, and
realize that, after so many, many years of complete inertia, the old
Baha'is have been found--at least some of them--and contacts reestablished.
You are able to serve there, new people are hearing of the Faith, and the
prospects for the future work there are promising. It is a great pity that
a pioneer effort, organized and financed, cannot be carried out there. But
the present Seven Year Plan takes all the American Baha'i resources, and
at present Japan must depend on volunteer teachers like your dear self,
who of course are not as free as a full time pioneer would be.
In regard to the various questions in your last letter; because of the
difficult conditions under which you are serving there and the state of
the country and immaturity of the believers you should not be too rigid.
You should try and meet on the proper Feast day, but if it is not possible
meet as close to the date as you can. Likewise, it would be desirable to
observe the Ascension of Baha'u'llah and the Master, etc., at the correct
times, but it is not essential to do so. With such a small group of
Baha'is who have no proper literature except the Esslemont book, and need
to deepen in the Teachings, you should be very patient and not ask them to
do things before they see the wisdom of it.
Membership for Baha'is should be based on their understanding the station
of the Bab, Baha'u'llah, 'Abdu'l-Baha, the Guardian and the function of
the Administrative Order. To do this it is not necessary for people to
first read the Will and Testament and the Dispensation. The essentials can
be explained to them, and the rest is a question of faith; if they
believe, they can be accepted as Baha'is. It is premature now to say any
"laws" of the Aqdas must be followed. But the Baha'is should be encouraged
to keep the Fast, use an obligatory prayer, obtain the consent of parents
for marriage, and live up to the Teachings in general.
He certainly feels one of your first duties is to deepen the understanding
of the Faith in the minds of the believers there.
You should certainly try to make new contacts but until you have a nucleus
of active believers there he feels a lot of publicity is premature.
As to translations, this is certainly very important, but he would not
suggest that at present with the limited facilities at your disposal, that
you translate whole books. Make selections of subjects that will interest
the Japanese; some prayers, some of the chapters from "Some Answered
Questions" on things of general interest rather than the purely Christian
topics; some of the excerpts from "Gleanings". In other words try and get
together a selection from our Teachings that covers a wide range of
subjects and is representative of our beliefs, and translate these at
first. Whole books can be undertaken in the future.
He feels the teaching and translating work can go hand in hand as you
teach with new material translated.
Your services are very deeply valued by our beloved Guardian, and he
assures you he will pray for you and all the Japanese Baha'is in the Holy
Shrines.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
The zeal, devotion and courage which you exhibit in your activities in the
service of the Cause in Japan are truly meritorious and evoke my deepest
admiration. Your mission is indeed historic, and your pioneer achievements
an example to the rising generation. Persevere in your high endeavors, and
rest assured that the Beloved will bless your exertions and will aid you
to fulfil your heart's desire.
Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi
(January 21, 1948)
[Letter of October 16, 1948]
He (the Guardian) is delighted over the progress the Faith is making in
Japan, and feels greatly attracted to the Japanese believers, who show a
spirit of sincerity and faith which augurs well for the future development
of the work there.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
Dear and valued co-worker:
Your outstanding pioneer services are indeed worthy of the highest praise,
and I am deeply grateful to you for the work you have accomplished. The
firm establishment of a spiritual assembly in Japan and its consolidation,
as well as the formation of small groups and isolated centers, will no
doubt act as a magnet that will draw the inestimable blessings of
Baha'u'llah. Persevere in your historic task and rest assured and be
happy.
Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi
(October 16, 1948)
[Letter of December 20, 1949]
To Mrs. Barbara Davenport
He (the Guardian) urges you to encourage the friends (in Japan) to observe
our Baha'i laws and ordinances, deepen themselves in the administration,
and realize they are followers of a Faith--not a mere movement.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(December 20, 1949)
[Letter of September 17, 1950]
To Mr. Robert Imagire
He (the Guardian) is so pleased to have dear Miss Alexander there. Her
devotion and loyalty, her love and knowledge of the teachings will be a
comfort and inspiration to the believers there (in Japan).
The Guardian was also very happy to see eight Japanese names on the Tokyo
Assembly. Although the help and advice of American believers is of great
importance, it is excellent that the majority are Japanese and are
assuming responsibility for the affairs of the Cause in their native land.
He feels great strides forward have been made, and trusts still greater
progress lies ahead. He was delighted to hear the Japanese friends and
particularly the women, are actively teaching and giving lectures.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(in the Guardian's handwriting)
Dear and valued co-worker:
The services you are rendering the Faith in Japan are indeed remarkable
and unforgettable. I am filled with admiration for the spirit that
animates you and for your splendid accomplishments. Persevere in your
historic tasks, and rest assured that the Beloved is well pleased with
you. I will continue to supplicate in your behalf the Master's richest
blessings, that He may fulfill your heart's desire in His service.
Your true and grateful brother, Shoghi
(September 17, 1950)
[Letter of February 27, 1951]
The news of the progress being made by the Japanese Baha'is in teaching
and in reaching people of importance, pleased him (the Guardian) greatly;
and he urges you all to persevere, and never lose heart. In his visits to
the Shrines, he will supplicate that Baha'u'llah may confirm your efforts,
and enlarge the scope of your activities.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(February 27, 1951)
[Letter of September 21, 1951]
He (the Guardian) feels by all means you should plan to remain in Japan
and buy a home, if possible. Your presence there has marked a turning
point in the work in that country.
It will interest you to know that there are Baha'is now in Formosa and
Indochina, and we hope an English believer will be able to go out to Hong
Kong later. Lights are going on in Asia.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(September 21, 1951)
[Letter of November 12, 1952]
He (the Guardian) was most happy to hear of the progress being made in
Japan, particularly in the new centers being opened to the Faith, such as
Yokohama and Kofu. He was also very happy to know that Miss Alexander is
now teaching in Kyoto.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(November 12, 1952)
[Letter of May 25, 1953]
To Mr. and Mrs. Donald Witzel
He (the Guardian) was deeply touched by the two letters by the two new
believers of Korea, and the spirit of loving devotion which they portray.
He wishes you to assure them of his prayers in their behalf. He hopes they
will be inspired to intensify their teaching efforts, so others may be
quickened by the spirit of Baha'u'llah, and an Assembly be formed in
Korea.
He wishes you and the friends in Tokyo to keep in close touch with the
friends in Korea. In fact, he wishes the Tokyo Assembly to undertake, as
one of their direct responsibilities, the assistance of the work in Korea,
sending if possible one or two pioneers to Korea. This will keep the
Center in Korea, (and even enable it to develop into an Assembly), until
such time as more American pioneers are sent to Korea.
The Guardian greatly values the services of the friends in Japan. He hopes
they will now treble their efforts in the teaching field. Now that the Ten
Year Crusade has been so auspiciously launched, the divine confirmations
are descending; and the friends should seize this opportunity to spread
the Faith to all corners of the globe. Especial opportunity devolves on
the Japanese Baha'is and pioneers, as one of the goals of the Crusade is
the establishment of a National Assembly for Japan.
The Guardian will pray for the success of the teaching efforts of the
friends in Japan; also for the services and development of the Faith in
Korea.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(May 25, 1953)
[Letter of July 10, 1954]
To Mr. Noureddin Momtazi
The Guardian is deeply appreciative of your devotion and sacrifices for
the Faith. The gift which you have made of $3,000 toward the purchase of
the Hazira in Tokyo is a further sign of the dynamic spirit which animates
you in all of your services.
The Guardian attaches the utmost importance to the Hazira of Tokyo, as
this is to become the Headquarters of the National Assembly when it is
elected.
The Guardian feels the time is now ripe for the Faith to spread very
rapidly throughout Japan, and he wishes that all of the preliminary steps
be taken for the development of the Faith as it goes forward. Thus he is
anxious that the Hazira be purchased this year if possible.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(July 10, 1954)
[Letter of October 19, 1955]
To Mr. William Maxwell
The Guardian has received very glowing reports of the wonderful
accomplishments of the Conference(37) in Japan. He feels that this
conference marked a new point of development of the Faith in Japan, as
well as the entire general area. The spirit of confirmation is reaching
all those who arise to serve the Faith; and he is sure divine blessings
will come upon everyone who attended the Conference and took part in its
deliberations, and who will now go forth to win new victories.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(October 19, 1955)
[Letter of November 23, 1955]
To Mrs. Carolyn Dary
He (the Guardian) urges you to make a special effort to visit the friends
in other places where you stop, no matter how short the time, as the news
of the progress of the Faith in general will encourage and hearten them.
Especially in places such as Japan, the friends need to be urged to
persevere with their teaching efforts, so as to have more Spiritual
Assemblies in the future to support their National Body, when the time
comes for its formation.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(November 23, 1955)
[Letter of May 3, 1956]
The recent news from Japan is most heartening--eight Assemblies in all.
Even though our dear Baha'i sister, Miss Alexander may be exhausted from
years of labour, the harvest is so rich that it compensates for any
inconvenience or suffering.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(May 3, 1956)
[Letter of March 18, 1957]
To Mr. John McHenry III
He (the Guardian) is very happy that you can arrange your affairs so as to
return to Korea... The phenomenal progress the Cause has made in that area
(Korea) is practically exclusively due to the services of the young
American Baha'is who are in the Armed Forces. Indeed, it is a great
victory won by Baha'i youth.
(signed by R. Rabbani)
(March 18, 1957)
[Letter of August 18, 1957]
To Mr. William Maxwell
The Guardian was happy to learn that you are still in Korea and that you
are able to continue in the teaching work of that important country. He
knows that wherever you are you will carry forward the pressing
requirements of the Faith with vigor and enthusiasm but he feels that
Korea and even Japan particularly need the help of yourself and other
American pioneers at this time.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(August 18, 1957)
[Letter of October 18, 1957]
To Mr. Eugene Schreiber
The Master was most hopeful of the spread of the Faith in Japan. Now that
His Promises are being fulfilled, the friends must be very happy. Likewise
this happiness must translate itself into renewed devotion so that the
Call of God may be raised in all parts of that important country.
The Guardian is praying for the success of the teaching work in Japan.
(signed by Leroy Ioas)
(October 18, 1957)
14: Shoghi Effendi Writes to Emperor Showa of Japan
Emperor Showa (Hirohito) of Japan had the longest reign (December 25, 1926
to January 7, 1989) of any reigning sovereign in Japan. He was respected
as a scholar; being an eminent marine biologist, and he was beloved by his
people.
Following the custom in Japan, the reign of a new emperor is given a
specially selected name. After that emperor dies he takes on the name of
the reign. Consequently, Emperor Hirohito, as he was known during his
reign, is now known as Emperor Showa.
At the time of his coronation in the fall of 1928 seven specially bound
Baha'i books were presented to His Majesty. The books which were sent in
the name of two American Baha'is were presented by Dr. Rokuichiro
Masujima, who was a friend of Miss Alexander and who was close to the
Faith. He had access to the Imperial Household.
Shoghi Effendi was asked to write something to be sent with the books. The
message sent to accompany the books was "May the perusal of Baha'i
literature enable Your Imperial Majesty to appreciate the sublimity and
penetrative power of Baha'u'llah's Revelation and inspire you on this
auspicious occasion to arise for its worldwide recognition and triumph."
The books arrived after the coronation ceremonies so the presentation was
delayed. On May 22 of the following year Dr. Masujima received a letter
from the Minister of the Imperial Household that the seven books had been
presented to the Emperor that day.
During World War II the palace did not suffer destruction so undoubtedly
the books and message are still there with the other coronation gifts.
In 1930 the great Baha'i teacher Miss Martha Root visited Japan. She sent
two gifts to the Emperor; a small Persian rug and a sheet of Holy Writings
written in Persian script in the form of a beautiful bird. Accompanying
the gifts was a cable from Shoghi Effendi: "Martha Root care American
Embassy Tokyo. Kindly transmit His Imperial Majesty, Tokyo, Japan on
behalf of myself and Baha'is world over, expression of our deepest love as
well as assurance of heartfelt prayers for his well-being and prosperity
of his ancient realm."
Japan, after recovery from the devastation of World War II, shows the
prosperity that the Guardian prayed for, and the Emperor, active and
healthy until the end had a very long and fruitful reign.
15: Message from the Universal House of Justice to the North Pacific
Oceanic Conference, Sapporo, Japan, September, 1971
To the Friends of God Assembled in the Conference of the North Pacific
Ocean.
Dearly-loved Friends,
On the eve of the Fiftieth Anniversary of the opening of the Formative Age
of our Faith we call to mind the high hopes often expressed by the beloved
Master for the spread of the Cause in this region. His mention in the
Tablets of the Divine Plan of many of the territories represented in this
Conference, and the faithful and devoted services of that maid-servant of
Baha'u'llah, the Hand of the Cause Agnes Alexander, who brought the
Teachings to these shores in the early years of this century.
In these days we are witnessing an unprecedented acceleration of the
teaching work in almost every part of the globe. In the North Pacific
Ocean area great strides have been made in the advancement of the Cause
since that historic Asia Regional Teaching Conference in Nikko just
sixteen years ago. The next two years witnessed the formation of the
National Spiritual Assembly of Alaska and of the Regional National
Spiritual Assembly of North East Asia. To the Convention in Tokyo at
Ridvan 1957 the Guardian addressed these prophetic words:
"This auspicious event, which posterity will regard as the culmination of
a process initiated, half a century ago, in the capital city of Japan ...
marks the opening of the second chapter in the history of the evolution of
His Faith in the North Pacific area. Such a consummation cannot fail to
lend a tremendous impetus to its onward march in the entire Pacific
Ocean..."
Since that time National Spiritual Assemblies have also been firmly
established in Korea and Taiwan.
Hokkaido, the site of this Conference, first heard of the Teachings less
than fifteen years ago, and the first aboriginal peoples of this land
accepted Baha'u'llah just over a decade ago. Now you are the witnesses to
the beginnings of a rapid increase in the number of believers. Peoples in
other islands and lands of the North Pacific, including the Ryukyus, Guam,
the Trust Territories, the western shores of Canada and Alaska and the
Aleutians are also enrolling under the banner of the Most Great Name, and
next Ridvan yet another pillar of the Universal House of Justice is to be
raised in Micronesia. We are heartened at the prospect that from
indigenous peoples of this vast oceanic area, the Ainu, the Japanese, the
Chinese, the Koreans, the Okinawans, the Micronesians, the American
Indians, the Eskimos, and the Aleuts vast numbers will soon enter the
Faith.
The final hours of the Nine Year Plan are fast fleeting. Praised be to God
that you have gathered to consult on ways and means of assuring complete
victory so that from these outposts the Teachings may spread to those
nearby lands where teeming millions have not as yet heard of the advent of
this Most Great Dispensation.
The sweet perfume of victory is in the air, and we must hasten to achieve
it while there is yet time. Vital goals, particularly on the homefronts of
Taiwan and Japan, remain to be won, and everywhere the roots of the faith
of the believers must sink deeper and deeper into the firm earth of the
Teachings lest tempests and trials as yet unforeseen shake or uproot the
tender plants so lovingly raised in the islands of this great Ocean and
the land surrounding it.
As you and the friends in the sister Conference in Reykjavik bring this
series of eight Oceanic and Continental Conferences to a triumphant close,
our prayers for the success of your deliberations ascend at the Holy
Threshold. May God grant you the resources, the strength, and the
determination to attain your highest hopes and enable you to open a new
and glorious chapter in the evolution of His Faith in the North Pacific
area.
With loving Baha'i greetings,
The Universal House of Justice
Afterword
The first printing of this book was done in 1974. As it contained new
material, that is, Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha and letters of the Guardian,
Shoghi Effendi, many of which had never been published, and because its
theme was Japan, it proved to be a successful addition to the Baha'i
literature throughout the Baha'i world. It was translated into Japanese
and has been one of the standard books in that language.
The Baha'i Publishing Trust of Japan regularly has requests for the
English edition although it has been out of print since the late 1970s.
When the compiler considered a second edition she decided to refer back to
the original material for possible changes, to add new material, and also
add more details such as the names of translators (when available),
thereby hoping to increase the historical value. Very little of the
original has been eliminated.
All of the Tablets of 'Abdu'l-Baha to Miss Alexander and to Baha'is in
Japan have been included. Only some of the Tablets written to Japanese,
who, at the time, were living in the United States have been included. It
was difficult to choose which of Shoghi Effendi's letters to Miss Aexander
should be included.
The Guardian had requested that she write to him often so their
correspondence was extensive. She actually received many more letters than
are printed here.
Most of Shoghi Effendi's letters (which, of course, also means those
written on his behalf) to the early Baha'is of Japan and to the
institutions of the Faith in Japan are printed here.
It was felt that certain communications from the Universal House of
Justice would add to this important subject, hence the expansion to later
years.
FOOTNOTES
1 Mr. McNutt, Mr. Wilhelm and Mr. Randall were staunch and devoted
American Baha'is who tried to help the Faith in Japan as it was
'Abdu'l-Baha's wish.
2 Mr. Struven was designated as Herald of the Kingdom by 'Abdu'l-Baha.
3 Mr. McNutt, Mr. Wilhelm and Mr. Randall were staunch and devoted
American Baha'is who tried to help the Faith in Japan as it was
'Abdu'l-Baha's wish.
4 Mr. Shiroshi Nasu, a professor of Tokyo Imperial University, was a
friend of Mr. Wilhelm.
5 Mr. McNutt, Mr. Wilhelm and Mr. Randall were staunch and devoted
American Baha'is who tried to help the Faith in Japan as it was
'Abdu'l-Baha's wish.
6 Mr. Roh, a Korean, had studied in the West. Returning to Korea by
way of Palestine, he met some Baha'is on the ship who told him of
'Abdu'l-Baha. He met 'Abdu'l-Baha in Tiberius and was allowed
several interviews by Him. Miss Alexander met Mr. Roh in Korea. He
was teaching at the Christian College and told some of his students
of the Baha'i Faith, but he could not commit himself to the Faith.
7 Baha'i World Vol. III, p. 84.
8 In the early days sometimes spelled Kwanichi.
9 Hyacinth--the flower of knowledge.
10 Comparing those near at hand who disobeyed the command of
Baha'u'llah with the recipient of this Tablet, a Japanese.
11 Infinite in regard to imagination, for without the mind there would
be no imagination.
12 Mr. Kikutaro Fukuta
13 Mr. Tokujiro Torii
14 Mr. Daiun Inouye, a Buddhist priest became a Baha'i and gave up the
priesthood.
15 Mr. Sensui Saiki, a writer, was greatly attracted to the Faith and
assisted Miss Alexander by translating literature into Japanese.
16 The son of Mr. and Mrs. Torii. His name, Akira, means 'shining
light' which the mother saw before his birth March 11, 1918.
17 Accompanying this Tablet was a Japanese translation made by Mr.
Saichiro Fujita at the command of 'Abdu'l-Baha.
18 Mr. Noto was blind.
19 A school girl of 17 years.
20 Mr. Ono was blind.
21 Addressed to Ahmad Sohrab.
22 Japanese Foreign Office records list Viscount Minoji Arakawa as
being Ambassador of Spain at that time. Spelling of the last name
differs in the original text.
23 The Great Kanto Earthquake of September 1923.
24 Dr. Augur passed away the previous month.
25 Mr. Aibara, a vibrant Baha'i with leadership qualities, died
suddenly at age 32.
26 Akira Torii, the only second-generation Baha'i in Japan at that time
died at age 17.
27 Dr. Rokuichiro Masujima was a good friend of the Faith but he could
not commit himself to becoming a Baha'i.
28 The Guardian had asked Miss Alexander to visit Mr. Fujita's mother,
who lay ill in Yanai, Yamaguchi Prefecture. At that time it was an
18-hour train trip from Tokyo.
29 The Guardian had asked Miss Alexander to visit Mr. Fujita's mother,
who lay ill in Yanai, Yamaguchi Prefecture. At that time it was an
18-hour train trip from Tokyo.
30 Mr. Tsuto Mori, at that time lay critically ill in the hospital and
not expected to live. He declared his Faith shortly after, just
before he died.
31 Mr. Seto, the first Chinese-American Baha'i, died while he was in
Japan attending the first Convention. He is buried in the
Yamate-machi Foreign Cemetery in Yokohama.
32 On occasion of first summer school in Japan.
33 International Baha'i Teaching Conference, Nikko, Japan, September
1955.
34 National Spiritual Assembly of North East Asia, with its seat in
Tokyo, Japan.
35 Australia.
36 The purchase of the Tokyo Hazira was accomplished that year. It was
not necessary to sell the Mukonoso property as Mr. Momtazi
contributed a like amount toward the purchase of the Tokyo Hazira.
When the Guardian was informed of the purchase, he cabled "Delighted
loving prayers" to the Tokyo Local Spiritual Assembly.
37 The International Teaching Conference at Nikko.