Prayers for Healing - a Baha'i Perspective

Advice to Doctors - A Baha'i Perspective

This is part ten of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, in Part 4 we looked at the spiritual causes, in Part 5 we looked at the effects of disease, in Part 6 we looked at the attitudes we want to strive for, when we are diseased, in Part 7 we looked at the spiritual treatments for disease, in Part 8 we looked at the physical treatments for disease, in Part 9 we looked at why people aren’t getting better, and in this part we look at advice given to doctors.

Study medicine:

Thou shouldst endeavour to study the science of medicine. It is extremely useful and serveth as the greatest instrument for the dissemination of the Cause. It is absolutely imperative that thou acquire this bounty. Strive day and night that thou mayest become highly qualified in this science.

And research:

These investigations you have so painstakingly pursued in the field of medical science, and on a subject which is still puzzling the minds of all the leading scientists in the world, cannot but be of a captivating interest and of a great value to all medical research workers. It is significant that you as a believer should have undertaken a work of this nature, as we all know that the powers released by the Manifestation of Bahá’u'lláh in this day are destined, in the course of time, to reveal themselves through the instrumentality of His followers, and in every conceivable field of human endeavour. That you should increasingly prove, through your confirmed researches in the domain of medicine, to be one of those instruments, is the fervent hope of our beloved Guardian. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 287)

Turn to God and ask for Help:

And when thou wishest to dispense treatment set thy heart toward the Abha Kingdom, entreating Divine confirmations. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

When giving medical treatment turn to the Blessed Beauty then follow the dictates of thy heart . . . Indeed, such a heavenly breath quickeneth every mouldering bone and reviveth the spirit of every sick and ailing one. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

Give God the credit:

Well is it with the physician who cureth ailments in My hallowed and dearly cherished Name. (Bahá’u'lláh, Lights of Guidance, p. 284)

Diagnose then prescribe:

First diagnose the disease and identify the malady, then prescribe the remedy, for such is the perfect method of the skilful physician. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 269)

Know the spiritual causes as well as the physical:

Say to [Dr.] . . . . that “he studied physical medicine and he cured physical diseases. I beg of God that he may become a spiritual physician and heal the sickness of the ignorant ones.” (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v3, p. 507)

Know the patient as well as disease and remedies:

Consequently, the doctor must be aware of, and know, all the members and parts, as well as the constitution and state of the patient, so that he can prescribe a medicine which will be beneficial against the violent poison of the disease. In reality the doctor deduces from the disease itself the treatment which is suited to the patient, for he diagnoses the malady, and afterward prescribes the remedy for the illness. Until the malady be discovered, how can the remedy and treatment be prescribed? The doctor then must have a thorough knowledge of the constitution, members, organs and state of the patient, and be acquainted with all diseases and all remedies, in order to prescribe a fitting medicine. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 158)

Know the different remedies and medicines:

The skillful physician does not give the same medicine to cure each disease and each malady, but he changes remedies and medicines according to the different necessities of the diseases and constitutions. One person may have a severe illness caused by fever, and the skilled doctor will give him cooling remedies; and when at some other time the condition of this person has changed, and fever is replaced by chills, without doubt the skilled doctor will discard cooling medicine and permit the use of heating drugs. This change and alteration is required by the condition of the patient and is an evident proof of the skill of the physician. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 94)

Use spiritual and material forms of healing:

O thou distinguished physician!…Praise be to God that thou hast two powers: one to undertake physical healing and the other spiritual healing. Matters related to man’s spirit have a great effect on his bodily condition. For instance, thou shouldst impart gladness to thy patient, give him comfort and joy, and bring him to ecstasy and exultation. How often hath it occurred that this hath caused early recovery. Therefore, treat thou the sick with both powers. Spiritual feelings have a surprising effect on healing nervous ailments (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

Remedy the sick by means of heavenly joy and spiritual exultation cure the sorely afflicted by imparting to them blissful glad tidings and heal the wounded through His resplendent bestowals. When at the bedside of a patient, cheer and gladden his heart and enrapture his spirit through celestial power. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

Circumcision:

The beloved Guardian says that the question of circumcision has nothing to do with the Bahá’í Teachings; and the believers are free to do as they please in the matter. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 289)

Euthanasia, birth control and abortion:

We are impressed by the spirit of your letter of 15 Sultan seeking guidance concerning certain aspects of the medical profession. Your desire to avoid doing anything in your study of medicine which would be contrary to the Bahá’í Teachings is most commendable. As you have keenly observed, the Universal House of Justice may consider it untimely to make definitive rulings on certain matters to which no direct reference can be found in the Sacred Text. Among these are euthanasia and certain aspects of birth control and abortion, and until such time as rulings are made, these matters are left to the consciences of those concerned who must weigh the medical advice on the case in the light of general guidance given in the Teachings. Your National Spiritual Assembly has specific references regarding birth control and abortion which might be useful to you. (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 289)

Organ Transplants:

We have not come across anything specific in the writings on transplants of hearts and other organs or regarding the time of death, and the Universal House of Justice does not wish to make any statements on these points at this time. (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 289)

There is nothing in the teachings which would forbid a Bahá’í to bequeath his eyes to another person or for a hospital; on the contrary it seems a noble thing to do. (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 290)

Dissection:

When dissecting a human body for the purposes of medical study, should keep in mind that since the body was once the temple of the spirit it must be treated with respect even though there is no further connection between the two. (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 290)

Avoid commissions:

The Guardian feels that your attitude towards the corrupt practice of accepting commissions from fellow physicians and pharmacists is most admirable. The more upright and noble the Bahá’ís are in their conduct, the more they will impress the public with the spiritual vitality of the Faith they believe in. (Shoghi Effendi,, Lights of Guidance, p. 287)

Ethical Conduct:

Knowledge is praiseworthy when it is coupled with ethical conduct and virtuous character; otherwise it is a deadly poison, a frightful danger. A physician of evil character, and who betrayeth his trust, can bring on death, and become the source of numerous infirmities and diseases. (’Abdul-Bahá, Scholarship, p. 21)

Bahá’í Holy Days:

He thinks it is better for Bahá’í doctors not to work on our 9 Holy Days — but, of course, that does not mean they should not attend to very sick people and emergencies on these days. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 287)

For more in this series:

Part 10: Advice to Doctors

Why People Aren’t Getting Better – a Baha’i Perspective

This is part nine of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, in Part 4 we looked at the spiritual causes, in Part 5 we looked at the effects of disease, in Part 6 we looked at the attitudes we want to strive for, when we are diseased, in Part 7 we looked at the spiritual treatments for disease, in Part 8 we looked at the physical treatments for disease, and in this part we look at why people aren’t getting better.

Need spiritual awakening:

‘Abdu’l-Bahá does often state that the medical science will much improve. With the appearance of every revelation a new insight is created in man and this is turn express itself in the growth of science. This has happened in past dispensations and we find its earliest fruits in our present day. What we see however is only the beginning. With the spiritual awakening of man this force will develop and marvelous results will become manifest. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 287)

Unskilled physicians:

He hath fallen under the control of unskillful physicians who are hurried away by vain desires and are of those who stray madly. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 112)

And today we see him under the hands of those who are taken by the intoxification of the wine of deceits in such manner that they do not know what is best for themselves (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 112)

Wrong motivations:

And if one of them endeavor to better his health, his intention will not be but to profit himself thereof whether by name or effect, therefore he will not be able to heal him save to a certain extent. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 112)

Ego:

They that are intoxicated by self-conceit have interposed themselves between it and the Divine and infallible Physician. Witness how they have entangled all men, themselves included, in the mesh of their devices. They can neither discover the cause of the disease, nor have they any knowledge of the remedy. (Commissioned by The Universal House of Justice, One Common Faith)

In one of His Tablets (Iqtiddarat, p. 85) Bahá’u'lláh mentions that a disease has afflicted many of those who, in their own estimation, have acquired a measure of knowledge and learning. The disease is that such people consider themselves to be the equal of the Manifestation of God and on the same level. He states that a great many people suffer from this disease and consequently they have deprived themselves of the bounties of God’s Revelation. (Adib Taherzadeh, The Child of the Covenant, p. 13)

For more in this series:

Part 9: Why People Aren’t Getting Better

Physical Treatments for Disease - A Baha'i Perspective

This is part eight of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, in Part 4 we looked at the spiritual causes, in Part 5 we looked at the effects of disease, in Part 6 we looked at the attitudes we want to strive for, when we are diseased, in Part 7 we looked at the spiritual treatments for disease, and in this part we look at physical treatments.

Use of Doctors:

In the Bahá’í Teachings it is made quite clear that when one is ill, one should seek the best available medical advice. This naturally leaves a person free to choose what they consider good in medical opinion. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 284)

According to the explicit decree of Bahá’u'lláh one must not turn aside from the advice of a competent doctor. It is imperative to consult one even if the patient himself be a well-known and eminent physician. In short, the point is that you should maintain your health by consulting a highly-skilled physician. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 155)

It is incumbent upon everyone to seek medical treatment and to follow the doctor’s instructions, for this is in compliance with the divine ordinance, but, in reality, He Who giveth healing is God. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 155)

It is possible for a man to hold to a book of medicine and say, “I have no need of a doctor; I will act according to the book; in it every disease is named, all symptoms are explained, the diagnosis of each ailment is completely written out, and a prescription for each malady is furnished; therefore, why do I need a doctor?” This is sheer ignorance. A physician is needed to prescribe. Through his skill the principles of the book are correctly and effectively applied until the patient is restored to health. (Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 248)

Do not neglect medical treatment when it is necessary, but leave it off when health has been restored. (Bahá’u'lláh: Bahá’u'lláh and the New Era, 1980 ed.,p. 106)

Even doctors need to consult doctors:

According to the explicit decree of Bahá’u'lláh one must not turn aside from the advice of a competent doctor. It is imperative to consult one even if the patient himself be a well-known and eminent physician. In short, the point is that you would maintain your health by consulting a highly-skilled physician. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

Seek the best doctors you can find:

…thou hast written about thy poor sight. According to the explicit divine text the sick must refer to the doctor. This decree is decisive and everyone bound to observe it. While thou art there thou shouldst consult the most skilled and the most famed eye specialist. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

Get a second opinion:

Before having any serious operation, you should consult more than one qualified physician. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 291)

Use doctors and know that healing comes from God:

It is incumbent upon everyone to seek medical treatment and to follow the doctor’s instructions, for this is in compliance with the divine ordinance, but, in reality, He Who giveth healing is God. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 284)

One must obey the command of God and submit to medical opinion. Thou hast undertaken this journey to comply with His command and not for the sake of healing, since healing is in the hand of God, not in the hand of doctors. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 285)

Bahá’u'lláh tells us that in case of disease we should pray but at the same time refer to competent physicians, and abide by their considered decisions. Shoghi Effendi wishes you therefore to find whether your some has really become ill, and if he is, then follow the directions of the doctor. Being versed in the medical sciences they can treat better than even a loving mother can. You can render your assistance by praying for him and at the same time helping the physicians to treat him. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 286)

Diet and Foods:

Treat disease through diet, by preference. (Bahá’u'lláh: Bahá’u'lláh and the New Era, 1980 ed.,p. 106)

The science of medicine is still in a condition of infancy; it has not reached maturity. But when it has reached this point, cures will be performed by things which are not repulsive to the smell and taste of man — that is to say, by aliments, fruits and vegetables which are agreeable to the taste and have an agreeable smell. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 256)

The Báb hath said that the people of Baha must develop the science of medicine to such a high degree that they will heal illnesses by means of foods. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

It is the function of a skilled physician to determine which constituent of his patient’s body hath suffered diminution, which hath been augmented. Once he hath discovered this, he must prescribe a food containing the diminished element in considerable amounts, to re-establish the body’s essential equilibrium. The patient, once his constitution is again in balance, will be rid of his disease. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

The proof of this is that while other animals have never studied medical science, nor carried on researches into diseases or medicines, treatments or cures — even so, when one of them falleth a prey to sickness, nature leadeth it, in fields or desert places, to the very plant which, once eaten, will rid the animal of its disease. The explanation is that if, as an example, the sugar component in the animal’s body hath decreased, according to a natural law the animal hankereth after a herb that is rich in sugar. Then, by a natural urge, which is the appetite, among a thousand different varieties of plants across the field, the animal will discover and consume that herb which containeth a sugar component in large amounts. Thus the essential balance of the substances composing its body is re-established, and the animal is rid of its disease. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

It is, therefore, evident that it is possible to cure by foods, ailments and fruits; but as today the science of medicine is imperfect, this fact is not yet fully grasped. When the science of medicine reaches perfection, treatment will be given by foods, ailments, fragrant fruits and vegetables, and by various waters, hot and cold in temperature (Abdu’l-Bahá: Some Answered Questions, 1982 ed., 257-259)

Drugs:

Refrain from the use of drugs . . . Abstain from drugs when health is good, but administer them when necessary. (Bahá’u'lláh: Bahá’u'lláh and the New Era, 1980 ed.,p. 106)

Many of us rely on prescription medications with a long list of side effects. This can’t be good for us:

If a remedy is the cause of disease it would be better to do without the remedy. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 349)

Any remedy that causes disease does not come from the great and supreme Physician. (Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 130)

If the remedy bring on disease, then put it aside. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 248)

Now, is it possible that man’s sense of smell, the sense that differentiates odours, should find some odour repugnant, and that odour be beneficial to the human body? Absurd! Impossible! . . . Again, if the sense of taste, likewise a faculty that selecteth and rejecteth, be offended by something, that thing is certainly not beneficial; and if, at the outset, it may yield some advantage, in the long run its harmfulness will be established. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

The majority of the diseases which overtake man also overtake the animal, but the animal is not cured by drugs. In the mountains, as in the wilderness, the animal’s physician is the power of taste and smell. The sick animal smells the plants that grow in the wilderness; he eats those that are sweet and fragrant to his smell and taste, and is cured. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 257)

Herbs

. . . if you find what is required in a single herb, do not resort to a compounded medicament… (Bahá’u'lláh: Bahá’u'lláh and the New Era, 1980 ed.,p. 106)

Homeopathy:

One of the friends of Persia wrote to Shoghi Effendi and asked this question: “Is it true that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has said that biochemical homeopathy, which is a form of food medicine, is in conformity with the Bahá’í medical concept?” The beloved Guardian’s reply to this question in a letter dated 25th November, 1944 was as follows: “This statement is true, and the truth thereof will be revealed in the future.” The Universal House of Justice has also asked us to inform you that it does not wish the above statement to be circulated in isolation from the many and varied other texts in the Writings on medicine. However, you may share it with any of your friends who are interested. (Universal House of Justice, The Compilation of Compilations vol. I, p. 485)

Chiropractic:

There is nothing in the Teachings about chiropractic as a method of healing. People are free to turn to it if they pleas and find help through it. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 289)

Magnets:

The other kind of healing without medicine is through the magnetic force which acts from one body on another and becomes the cause of cure. This force also has only a slight effect. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 254)

Laying on of hands:

Sometimes one can benefit a sick person by placing one’s hand upon his head or upon his heart. Why? Because of the effect of the magnetism, and of the mental impression made upon the sick person, which causes the disease to vanish. But this effect is also very slight and weak. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 254)

He who is filled with love of Bahá, and forgets all things, the Holy Spirit will be heard from his lips and the spirit of life will fill his heart. … Words will issue from his lips in strands of pearls, and all sickness and disease will be healed by the laying on of the hands. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 112)

Strong Constitution:

A strong constitution often overcomes disease. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 255)

Rest:

. . . rest the body in order to do better. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith, p. 384)

Thank God I see you spiritual and at rest. (Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 48)

You should certainly safeguard your nerves, and force yourself to take time, and not only for prayer meditation, but for real rest and relaxation. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 297)

Suspend all other activities so you can focus on getting well:

Now your father has taken you to the best nerve specialists in…, and they all recommend that you should suspend all your activities until you are fully recovered. It is now your duty as a Bahá’í, and specially as a young believer who has still great services to render the Faith, to make every effort to recovery your health, and to be confident that by making such an effort you will be attracting the confirmations of Bahá’u'lláh, without which no true and lasting healing is possible. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 291)

Sleep

There are very few people who can get along without eight hours sleep. If you are not one of those, you should protect your health by sleeping enough. The Guardian himself finds that it impairs his working capacity if he does not try and get a minimum of seven or eight hours. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 291)

Education:

A number of development projects have also shown that people’s lives can be altered substantially by appropriate messages through the mass media, reinforce with practical activities. This is being achieved, for example, in the field of health, where communication programmes alter people’s fundamental attitudes towards diarrhoeal diseases. In some instances, people are persuaded to behave in ways opposite to their accustomed behavior (e.g., to feed children instead of withholding food during a diarrhoeal episode). (Baha’i International Community, 1988 Mar 17, Rural Women)

As a means of service:

You should always bear in mind Bahá’u'lláh’s counsel that we should take the utmost care of our health, surely not because it is an end in itself, but as a necessary means of serving His Cause. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 291)

Euthanasia and Living Wills:

We have received your letter of March 18, 1974 in which you ask for the Bahá’í viewpoint on euthanasia and on the removal of life support in medical cases where physiological interventions prolong life in disabling illnesses. In general our teachings indicate that God, the Giver of life, can alone dispose of it as He deems best, and we have found nothing in the Sacred Text on these matters specifically but in a letter to an individual written on behalf of the beloved Guardian by his secretary regarding mercy killings, or legalized euthanasia, it is stated: “…this is also a matter which the Universal House of Justice will have to legislate.” “Until such time as the Universal House of Justice considers legislation on Euthanasia, decisions in the matters to which you refer must be left to the conscience of those responsible (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 290)

As to the Bahá’í viewpoint on the removal of withholding of life support in medical cases where intervention prolongs life in disabling illnesses, nothing has been found in the Sacred Text specifically on this matter. In such cases decisions must be left to those responsible, including the patients. (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 290)

The Universal House of Justice has found nothing in the Sacred Text about the matter of with-holding or removing life support in disabling or terminal illnesses where intervention prolongs life. Therefore, until such time as the House of justice considers legislation on these matters, it is left to the conscience of the individual concerned whether or not to subscribe to a “living will”. (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 290)

For more in this series:

Part 8: Physical Treatment for Disease

Spiritual Treatments for Disease - A Baha'i Perspective

This is part seven of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, in Part 4 we looked at the spiritual causes, in Part 5 we looked at the effects of disease, in Part 6 we looked at the attitudes we want to strive for, when we are diseased, and in this part we are looking at the spiritual treatments for disease.

God is the Divine Physician and He alone has the power to give true healing:

Its sickness is approaching the stage of utter hopelessness, inasmuch as the true Physician is debarred from administering the remedy, whilst unskilled practitioners are regarded with favor, and are accorded full freedom to act. (Baha’u'llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u'llah, p. 39)

The All-Knowing Physician hath His finger on the pulse of mankind. He perceiveth the disease, and prescribeth, in His unerring wisdom, the remedy. (Baha’u'llah, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha’u'llah, p. 212)

God is the great compassionate Physician who alone has the power to give true healing. (Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 19)

The Prophets of God are the real Physicians. In whatever age or time They appear They prescribe for human conditions. They know the sicknesses; They discover the hidden sources of disease and indicate the necessary remedy. Whosoever is healed by that remedy finds eternal health. (Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 204)

All is in the hands of God, and without Him there can be no health in us! (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 286)

Turning to God:

Continue in healing hearts and bodies and seek healing for sick persons by turning unto the Supreme Kingdom and by setting the heart upon obtaining healing through the power of the Greatest Name and by the spirit of the Love of God. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 112)

Grace of God:

But for the unfailing grace of God — exalted be His glory — no antidote could ever cure these inveterate diseases. (Baha’u'llah, Tablets of Baha’u'llah, p. 252)

Power of the Holy Spirit:

Healing takes place through the power of the Holy Spirit. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 256)

The most potent means of healing is the Power of the Holy Spirit. This does not depend on contact, nor on sight, nor upon presence. … Whether the disease be light or severe, whether there be a contact of bodies or not, whether a personal connection be established between the sick person and the healer or not, this healing takes place through the power of the Holy Spirit. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 108)

O thou pure and spiritual one! Turn thou toward God with thy heart beating with His love, devoted to His praise, gazing towards His Kingdom and seeking help from His Holy Spirit in a state of ecstasy, rapture, love, yearning, joy and fragrance. God will assist thee, through a spirit from His Presence, to heal sickness and disease. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 112)

Bahá’u'lláh’s teachings:

Now, if thou wishest to know the divine remedy which will heal man from all sickness and will give him the health of the divine kingdom, know that it is the precepts and teachings of God. Guard them sacredly. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith - Abdu’l-Baha Section, p. 376)

That which hath streamed forth from the Most Exalted Pen is . . . the sovereign remedy for every disease, could they but comprehend and perceive it. (Baha’u'llah, Tablets of Baha’u'llah, p. 73)

And if thou art looking for the divine remedy which will cure the spirit of man of all diseases and make him obtain the health of the divine Kingdom, know that it is the precepts and teachings of God. Take the greatest care of them. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v3, p. 653)

The people of religions find, in the teaching of His Holiness Bahá’u'lláh, the establishment of Universal Religion — a religion that perfectly conforms with present conditions, which in reality effects the immediate cure of the incurable disease, which relieves every pain, and bestows the infallible antidote for every deadly poison. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith, p. 290)

Today the world of humanity will not find peace and tranquility except through these teachings and this darkness will not, otherwise, be dispelled, these chronic diseases be cured. Nay, these would, otherwise, be aggravated from day to day. (Abdu’l-Baha, Letter to Martha Root)

The people of religions find, in the teachings of His Holiness Bahá’u'lláh, . . . the immediate cure of the incurable disease, which relieves every pain and bestows the infallible antidote for every deadly poison. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 416)

Knowledge of laws, institutions and principles:

Praise be to Him, ye are acquainted with the various laws, institutions and principles of the world; today nothing short of these divine teachings can assure peace and tranquillity to mankind. But for these teachings, this darkness shall never vanish, these chronic diseases shall never be healed; nay, they shall grow fiercer from day to day. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 249)

Spiritual and material remedies work together:

There are two ways of healing diseases, the material and the spiritual way. The first is the remedies of the physicians; the second prayers and turning one’s self to God. Both must be practiced and followed. The diseases that happen to be caused by physical accident are cured by medical aid; others, which are due to spiritual causes, will disappear by spiritual means. For instance: For a disease due to grieving, fear, nervous impressions, the spiritual remedies will take more effect than the physical. Therefore, these two kinds of remedies must be followed; neither is an obstacle to the other. You must take care of the physical remedies. These also came from the bounty and mercy of God who revealed and made evident the science of medicine, so that His servants may also be benefited by this mode of healing. In the same way take care of the spiritual healing, because it giveth wonderful results. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v3, p. 653)

When the material world and the divine world are well co-related, when the hearts become heavenly and the aspirations grow pure and divine, perfect connection shall take place. Then shall this power produce a perfect manifestation. Physical and spiritual diseases will then receive absolute healing. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v2, p. 309)

If the heavenly benediction be upon us while we are being healed then only can we be made whole, for medicine is but the outward and visible means through which we obtain the heavenly healing. Unless the spirit be healed, the cure of the body is worth nothing. (Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 19)

Bahá’u'lláh recognizes the value of both material and spiritual remedies. He teaches that the science and art of healing must be developed, encouraged and perfected, so that all means of healing may be used to the best advantage, each in its appropriate sphere. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 106)

Sometimes a material remedy is called for:

Take for instance, a cut hand; if you pray for the cut to be healed and do not stop its bleeding, you will not do much good; a material remedy is needed. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 281)

Often both kinds of remedies are needed:

If the sickness is of the body, a material remedy is needed, if of the soul, a spiritual remedy. (Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 19)

A small disease needs a small remedy, but a disease which pervades the whole body needs a very strong remedy. (Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 59)

Unless the spirit be healed, the cure of the body is worth nothing. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 286)

Education:

Education must be considered as most important: for as diseases in the world of bodies are extremely contagious, so, in the same way, qualities of spirit and heart are extremely contagious. (Compilations, Baha’i World Faith, p. 318)

Let them [mothers] also study whatever will nurture the health of the body and its physical soundness, and how to guard their children from disease.
(’Abdul-Bahá, The Compilation of Compilations vol II, p. 372)

Obedience:

The bearing on health of these commands relating to the simple life, hygiene, abstinence from alcohol and opium, etcetera, is too obvious to call for much comment, although their vital importance is apt to be greatly underestimated. Were they to be generally observed, most of the infectious diseases and a good many others would soon vanish from among men. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 103)

Simple obedience to the hygienic and moral commands of Moses, Buddha, Christ, Muhammad or Bahá’u'lláh would do more in the way of preventing disease than all the doctors and all the public health regulations in the world have been able to accomplish. In fact, it seems certain that were such obedience general, good health would also become general. Instead of lives being blighted by disease of cut off in infancy, youth or prime, as so frequently happens now, men would live to a ripe old age, like sound fruits that mature and mellow ere they drop from the bough. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 104)

Chastity:

Were the commands of the Prophets concerning chastity in sexual relations generally observed, another fertile cause of disease would be eliminated. The loathsome venereal diseases, which wreck the health of so many thousands today, innocent as well as guilty, babes as well as parents, would very soon be
entirely a thing of the past. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 104)

Forgiveness:

The breaths of forgiveness are being wafted from the region of your Lord, the Merciful; he who advanceth unto them will necessarily be purified from disobedience and from every disease and infirmity. Blessed is he who cometh unto them, and woe unto him who turneth away. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 105)

Love

As long as ye can strive to set aglow the hearts with love, be attracted to one another and be members of each other. Every soul of the beloved ones must adore the other and withhold not his possession and life from them, and by all means he must endeavor to make that other joyous and happy. But that other (the recipient of such love) must also be disinterested and life-sacrificing. Thus may this Sunrise flood the horizons, this melody gladden and make happy all the people, this divine remedy become the panacea for every disease, this Spirit of Reality become the cause of life for every soul. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v1, p. 146)

The divine remedy has been provided. The spiritual Teachings of the Religion of God alone can create this love, unity and accord in human hearts. Therefore, hold to these heavenly agencies which God has provided so that through the love of God this soul-tie may be established, this heart-attachment realized, the light of the reality of unity be reflected from you throughout the universe. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 445)

The love and consideration he has been shown by the friends, and by the members of your Assembly in particular, will, he feels certain, help to a marked degree in counter-acting the painful effects of the insidious disease from which he is so severely, yet so uncomplainingly suffering. (Shoghi Effendi, The Unfolding Destiny of the British Baha’i Community, p. 124)

Peace:

Peace is health and construction (Compilations, Baha’i World Faith, p. 232)

Unity:

And that which God hath made the most mighty remedy and the most complete means for its health is the union of whosoever is upon the earth in a single matter, and a single law. This can never be possible except through a skillful physician, perfect and strengthened by God. By My life, this is the truth, and aught else is nothing but evident error. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 112)

Bahá’u'lláh gives the assurance that, through harmonious cooperation of patients, healers and the community in general, and by appropriate use of the various means to health, material, mental and spiritual, the Golden Age may be realized, when, by the Power of God, “all sorrow will be turned into joy, and all disease into health.” (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 113)

Prayer:

Turn thou toward God with thy heart beating with His love, devoted to His praise, gazing toward His Kingdom and seeking help from His Holy Spirit in a state of ecstasy, rapture, love, yearning, joy and fragrance. 629 God will assist thee, through a Spirit from His Presence, to heal sickness and diseases. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v3, p. 628)

Engage thou in commemorating God at every morn and turn unto the Horizon of Mercifulness. Take some honey, recite “Yá Baha-u’l-Abha” and eat a little thereof for several days. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v1, p. 185)

If the heavenly benediction be upon us while we are being healed then only can we be made whole, for medicine is but the outward and visible means through which we obtain the heavenly healing. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 286)

Fasting:

Verily, I say, fasting is the supreme remedy and the most great healing for the disease of self and passion. (Bahá’u'lláh, The Importance of Obligatory Prayer and Fasting)

Teaching the Faith:

Make your feet firm, make a firm compact, and in union and accord endeavor to diffuse the fragrance of the love of God and to spread the divine teachings, in order that ye may impart life to the dead body of this world, and bestow a real healing on every one diseased (in soul). (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v1, p. 36)

It is my hope that the breaths of the Holy Spirit will so be breathed into your hearts that your tongues will disclose the mysteries, and set forth and expound the inner meanings of the Holy Books; that the friends will become physicians, and will, through the potent medicine of the heavenly Teachings, heal the long-standing diseases that afflict the body of this world; that they will make the blind to see, the deaf to hear, the dead to come alive; that they will awaken those who are sound asleep. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 274)

Service:

By Thy Power, verily, the sweetness of servitude is the food of my spirit; with the fragrance of servitude my breast will be dilated, my being refreshed, my heart delighted, my eyes brightened, my nostrils perfumed, and in it is the healing of my disease, the allaying of my burning thirst, the soothing of my pain. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 265)

Be isolated from the grades of self and desire, so that thou mayest succeed in that which behooveth the service of the Kingdom of God, and that thou mayest be healed from every disease and sickness. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v1, p. 190)

Energy dissipated by war:

The enormous energy dissipated and wasted on war . . . will be consecrated to such ends as will extend the . . . extermination of disease, to the extension of scientific research, to the raising of the standard of physical health, to the sharpening and refinement of the human brain, to the exploitation of the unused and unsuspected resources of the planet, to the prolongation of human life . . . (Baha’u'llah, The Proclamation of Baha’u'llah, p. xii)

Expectations:

The complete and perfect connection between the spiritual doctor and the sick person — that is, a connection of such a kind that the spiritual doctor entirely concentrates himself, and all the attention of the sick person is given to the spiritual doctor from whom he expects to realize health — causes an excitement of the nerves, and health is produced. But all this has effect only to a certain extent, and that not always. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 255)

Much more powerful effects result from the patient’s own mental states, and “suggestion” may play an important part in determining these states . . . hope, love, joy, et cetera, are correspondingly beneficial. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 107)

Everyone has a part to play:

The work of healing the sick, however, is a matter that concerns not the patient and the practitioner only, but everyone. All must help, by sympathy and service, by right living and right thinking, and especially by prayer, for of all remedies prayer is the most potent. “Supplication and prayer on behalf of others,” says ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “will surely be effective.” The friends of the patient have a special responsibility, for their influence, either for good or ill, is most direct and powerful. In how many cases of sickness the issue depends mainly on the ministrations of parents, friends or neighbors of the helpless sufferer! Even the members of the community at large have an influence in every case of sickness. In individual cases that influence may not appear great, yet in the mass the effect is potent. Everyone is affected by the social “atmosphere” in which he lives, by the general prevalence of faith or materialism, of virtue or vice, of cheerfulness of depression; and each individual has his share in determining the state of that social “atmosphere.” It may not be possible for everyone, in the present state of the world, to attain to perfect health, but it is possible for everyone to become a “willing channel” for the health-giving power of the Holy Spirit and thus to exert a healing, helpful influence both on his own body and on all with whom he comes in contact.
(Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 112)

Being around Healthy People:

He teaches that there are also many methods of healing without material means. There is a “contagion of health,” as well as a contagion of disease, although the former is very slow and has a small effect (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 107)

It may be that the strong health of a healthy man will alleviate a very slight malady in a sick person. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 254)

For more in this series:

Part 7: Spiritual Treatment for Disease

Attitudes towards Disease - A Baha'i Perspective

This is part six of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, in Part 4 we looked at the spiritual causes, in Part 5 we looked at the effects of disease, and in this part we look at the attitudes to strive for, when battling disease.

No simple solutions - we need to look at all the elements:

Look on the world as the temple (body) of a man attacked by disease, whose recovery depends upon the union of all its elements. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 109)

Happiness:

Anybody can be happy in the state of comfort, ease, health, success, pleasure and joy; but if one will be happy and contented in the time of trouble, hardship and prevailing disease, it is the proof of nobility. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith, p. 363)

For more in this series:

Part 6: Attitudes towards Disease

Effects of Disease - A Baha'i Perspective

This is part five of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, in Part 4 we looked at the spiritual causes, and in this part we look at the effects of disease.

Plain Hell:

But when year after year a house is torn by heart-breaking emotions, shaken by scenes that leave one’s brain numb, one’s nerves decimated and one’s feelings in a turmoil, it is not simple, it is just plain hell. Before a patient lies on the operating table and the offending part is removed there is a long process of delay, of therapeutic effort to remedy the disease, of hope for recovery. (Adib Taherzadeh, The Child of the Covenant, p. 308)

Everyone suffers when someone is diseased:

If one member of the members be in distress or be afflicted with some disease all the other members must necessarily suffer. (Abdu’l-Baha, Foundations of World Unity, p. 38)

. . . were each member to be subjected to any injury or were it to become diseased, all the other members would sympathetically suffer, due to the existence of their perfect unity. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 280)

The effects of deprivation, disease and strife in one part of the globe are felt everywhere.” Increasingly we are becoming aware that as members of a single human family, we are all touched in some way by the suffering of every human being. Until that suffering is alleviated, no member of the family can be fully happy or at ease. (Baha’i International Community, 1994 Aug 17, Human Rights Extreme Poverty)

When a body is diseased, it’s deprived of the bounty of the spirit:

But when the body is wholly subjected to disease and misfortune, it is deprived of the bounty of the spirit; like a mirror which, when it becomes broken, or dirty, or dusty, cannot reflect the rays of the sun, nor any longer show its bounties. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith, p. 327)

. . . the person, while he is in the diseased condition the manifestation of the power and might of the spirit will be prevented and concealed (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 228)

Effects on the Spirit

The human spirit is in one condition; it neither becomes ill from the diseases of the body, nor cured by its health; it does not become sick, nor weak, nor miserable, nor poor, nor light, nor small. That is to say, it will not be injured because of the infirmities of the body, and no effect will be visible even if the body becomes weak or if the hands and feet and tongue be cut off, or if it loses the power of hearing or sight. (Compilations, Baha’i World Faith, p. 328)

Regarding your questions concerning the condition of the soul during illness. The passages in the “Gleanings” make it quite clear that physical ailments, no matter how severe, cannot bring any change in the inherent condition of the soul. As Bahá’u'lláh says: ‘The spirit is permanent and steadfast in its station’. The veil or hindrance that interposes between soul and body during physical disease is sickness itself. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 113)

You must always remember, no matter how much you or your others may be afflicted with mental troubles and the crushing environment of these State Institutions, that your spirit is healthy, near to our Beloved, and will in the next world enjoy a happy and normal state of soul. Let us hope in the meantime scientists will find better and permanent cures for the mentally afflicted. But in this world such illness is truly a heavy burden to bear! (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 281)

For more in this series:

Part 5: Effects of Disease

Spiritual Causes of Disease - A Baha'i Perspective

This is part four of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. In Part 3, we looked at the physical cause of disease, and in this part we look at the spiritual causes of disease.

God’s will:

For these thy prevailing diseases are not on account of sins, but they are to make thee detest this world and know that there is no rest and composure in this temporal life. (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v1, p. 185)

Whatever hath befallen you, hath been for the sake of God. This is the truth, and in this there is no doubt. You should, therefore, leave all your affairs in His Hands, place your trust in Him, and rely upon Him. He will assuredly not forsake you. In this, likewise, there is no doubt. (Bahá’u'lláh, Fire and Light, p. 10)

There have been many men who have died at last of the very disease of which they have made a special study. Aristotle, for instance, who made a special study of the digestion, died of a gastronomic malady. Aviseu was a specialist of the heart, but he died of heart disease. (Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 19)

Human Condition:

Suffering, of one kind or another, seems to be the portion of man in this world . . . poverty, disease, bereavement - they seem to be part of the polish God employs to make us finer, and enable us to reflect more of His attributes! (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 603)

See how dark and narrow is the physical world of man’s body, and what a prey it is to diseases and ills. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 192)

Think how narrow and dark is the material world of man, how afflicted with disease and maladies; but how bright and spacious is his Spiritual World! (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 459)

Disobedience to God:

According to the teaching of the Prophets, disease and all other forms of calamity are due to disobedience to the Divine Commands. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 95)

We live in a world, however, where from time immemorial obedience to the commands of the Prophets has been the exception rather than the rule; where love of self has been a more prevalent motive than love of God; where limited and party interests have taken precedence of the interests of humanity as a whole; where material possessions and sensual pleasures have been preferred to the social and spiritual welfare of mankind. Hence have arisen fierce competition and conflict, oppression and tyranny, extremes of wealth and poverty — all those conditions which breed disease, mental and physical. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 105)

Turning away from God:

Know thou verily the Divine Food is descending from heaven, but only those taste thereof who are directed to the light of guidance, and only those can enjoy it who are endowed with a sound taste. Otherwise every diseased soul disliketh the delicious and merciful food and this is because of the sickness which hath seized him, whereby the El-Zekkum is sweet (to his taste) while he fleeth from the ripe fruit of the Tree of the Living and Pre-existent God — and there is no wonder in that. (El-Zekkum — a thorny tree so called, which bears fruit like an almond, but extremely bitter. Therefore the tree symbolizes a very severe punishment and bitter remorse for the unbelievers). (Abdu’l-Baha, Tablets of Abdu’l-Baha v1, p. 130)

Generational “Sins of the Father”:

If a man does a great injustice to another in his life, then, after his death, his son will be despised for having had such a father and in some cases the injury might be so serious that the effect would reach to the grandson, etc., or a man may, by wrong living, fall into consumption and give that disease to his children unto the third or fourth generation. “Both physically and mentally the sins of the fathers may be visited upon the children.” (’Abdu’l-Bahá: Daily Lessons Received at ‘Akká 1979 ed., pp. 45-46)

Sin:

It is certainly the case that sins are a potent cause of physical ailments. If humankind were free from the defilements of sin and waywardness, and lived according to a natural, inborn equilibrium, without following wherever their passions led, it is undeniable that diseases would no longer take the ascendant, nor diversify with such intensity. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

Gambling:

Betting on horse racing is a pernicious disease. It hath been seen in Europe what distress this hath caused. Thousands have become afflicted and distraught (Universal House of Justice, Lights of Guidance, p. 357)

Fear, Anger, Worry and Sorrow:

Sometimes if the nervous system is paralyzed through fear, a spiritual remedy is necessary . . . It often happens that sorrow makes one ill, this can be cured by spiritual means. (Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 65)

Fear, anger, worry, et cetera, are very prejudicial to health (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 107)

Before she became a Bahá’í she had been a Christian Scientist, and now she brought up the question of mental suggestion as a cure for physical disease. The Master replied that some illnesses, such as consumption and insanity, developed from spiritual causes — grief, for example — and that these could be healed by the spirit. (Misc Baha’i, The Diary of Juliet Thompson)

Jealousy:

Jealousy is a gnawing disease, as testified by Bahá’u'lláh. It destroys the one who harbours it. (H.M. Balyuzi, Abdu’l-Baha - The Centre of the Covenant, p. 55)

Lack of Love and Hatred:

The disease which afflicts the body politic is lack of love and absence of altruism. In the hearts of men no real love is found, and the condition is such that, unless their susceptibilities are quickened by some power so that unity, love and accord may develop within them, there can be no healing (Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 171)

The disease of sectarian hatreds, if not decisively checked, threatens harrowing consequences that will leave few areas of the world unaffected. (Commissioned by The Universal House of Justice, One Common Faith)

Individualism:

No aspect of contemporary civilization is more directly challenged by Bahá’u'lláh’s conception of the future than is the prevailing cult of individualism, which has spread to most parts of the world. Nurtured by such cultural forces as political ideology, academic elitism, and a consumer economy, the “pursuit of happiness” has given rise to an aggressive and almost boundless sense of personal entitlement. The moral consequences have been corrosive for the individual and society alike - and devastating in terms of disease, drug addiction and other all-too- familiar blights of century’s end. (Baha’i International Community, 1999 Feb, Who is Writing the Future)

Disunity:

As long as the various members and parts of that organism are coordinated and cooperating in harmony, we have as a result the expression of life in its fullest degree. When these members lack coordination and harmony, we have the reverse, which in the human organism is disease, dissolution, death. (Abdu’l-Baha, The Promulgation of Universal Peace, p. 98)

The primary disease that afflicts society and generates the ills that cripple it, he says, is the disunity of a human race . . . (Baha’i International Community, 1999 Feb, Who is Writing the Future)

Few will disagree that the universal disease sapping the health of the body of humankind is that of disunity. (Commissioned by The Universal House of Justice, One Common Faith)

Disparity between rich and poor:

In much of the world, the gap between the “haves”and “have-nots”has widened and is accelerating with the persistent disparity in income levels. Social problems have not subsided. In fact, crime and disease are not just on the rise; they are also becoming endemic and more difficult to combat. (Baha’i International Community, 1995 Oct, Turning Point For All Nations)

War:

War is disease and dissolution. (Compilations, Baha’i World Faith, p. 232)

For more in this series:

Part 4: Spiritual Causes of Disease

Physical Causes of Disease – A Baha’i Perspective

This is part three of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease. In Part 2, we looked at the reasons for disease. and in this part we look at the physical causes of disease.

No single cause:

. . . the body of a man which was created sound and whole, but diseases have attacked him from various and divers causes and his soul is not at ease for a day, but rather his sickness increaseth, (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 112)

Genetics:

The next challenge for WHO is to recognize that a major obstacle to enjoying the right to health is being born female. (Baha’i International Community, 1995 Aug 26, Primary Health Care Empowerment of Women)

Genetic variations occur, producing conditions which can create problems for the individual. Some conditions are of an emotional or psychological nature, producing such imbalances as quickness to anger, recklessness, timorousness, and so forth; others involve purely physical characteristics, resulting not only in unusual capacities but also in handicaps or diseases of various kinds. (From a letter written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice to the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States, Sept. 11, 1995; published in “The American Bahá’í”, Qawl 152 BE/Nov. 23, 1995, p 11.)

Imbalances:

The outer, physical causal factor in disease, however, is a disturbance in the balance, the proportionate equilibrium of all those elements of which the human body is composed. To illustrate: the body of man is a compound of many constituent substances, each component being present in a prescribed amount, contributing to the essential equilibrium of the whole. So long as these constituents remain in their due proportion, according to the natural balance of the whole — that is, no component suffereth a change in its natural proportionate degree and balance, no component being either augmented or decreased — there will be no physical cause for the incursion of disease. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

For example, the starch component must be present to a given amount, and the sugar to a given amount. So long as each remaineth in its natural proportion to the whole, there will be no cause for the onset of disease. When, however, these constituents vary as to their natural and due amounts — that is, when they are augmented or diminished — it is certain that this will provide for the inroads of disease. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

The basic reason for this is that if, in some component substance of the human body, an imbalance should occur, altering its correct, relative proportion to the whole, this fact will inevitably result in the onset of disease. If, for example, the starch component should be unduly augmented, or the sugar component decreased, an illness will take control. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

When highly-skilled physicians shall fully examine this matter, thoroughly and perseveringly, it will be clearly seen that the incursion of disease is due to a disturbance in the relative amounts of the body’s component substances (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

Sickness reveals a lack of balance in human organism, an absence of equilibrium in the forces essential for the normal functioning of the human body. (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 113)

Poor Hygiene:

The amount of illness caused by neglect of simple hygienic precautions . . . is prodigious. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 103)

Germs:

. . . the germs are present in one’s own system, perhaps to lie dormant forever, perhaps to flare up into disease. (Ruhiyyih Khanum, The Priceless Pearl, p. 121)

Contagion:

Just as the bodily diseases like consumption and cancer are contagious, likewise the spiritual diseases are also infectious. If a consumptive should associate with a thousand safe and healthy persons, the safety and health of these thousand persons would not affect the consumptive and would not cure him of his consumptions. But when this consumptive associates with those thousand souls, in a short time the disease of consumption will infect a number of those healthy persons. This is a clear and self-evident question. (’Abdul-Bahá, Lights of Guidance, p. 183)

The contagion of disease is violent and rapid . . . If two bodies are brought into contact with each other, it is certain that microbic particles will pass from one to the other. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 254)

Just as in bodily diseases we must prevent intermingling and infection and put into effect sanitary laws — because the infectious physical diseases uproot the foundation of humanity; likewise one must protect and safeguard the blessed souls from the breaths and fatal spiritual diseases; otherwise violation, like the plague, will become a contagion and all will perish. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith, p. 437)

Treatment of our Body:

The body should be the servant of the soul, never its master, but it should be a willing, obedient and efficient servant, and should be treated with the consideration which a good servant deserves. If it is not properly treated, disease and disaster result, with injurious consequences to master as well as servant. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 101)

Diet:

But man hath perversely continued to serve his lustful appetites, and he would not content himself with simple foods. Rather, he prepared for himself food that was compounded of many ingredients, of substances differing one from the other. With this, and with the perpetrating of vile and ignoble acts, his attention was engrossed, and he abandoned the temperance and moderation of a natural way of life. The result was the engendering of diseases both violent and diverse. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

For the animal, as to its body, is made up of the same constituent elements as man. Since, however, the animal contenteth itself with simple foods and striveth not to indulge its importunate urges to any great degree, and committeth no sins, its ailments relative to man’s are few. We see clearly, therefore, how powerful are sin and contumacy as pathogenic factors. And once engendered these diseases become compounded, multiply, and are transmitted to others. Such are the spiritual, inner causes of sickness. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 152)

Sensual Desires:

But if the health and welfare of man be spent in sensual desires, in a life on the animal plane, and in devilish pursuits — then disease is better than such health. (Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i World Faith, p. 376)

Drinking and Drugs:

The drinking of wine is, according to the text of the Most Holy Book, forbidden; for it is the cause of chronic diseases, weakeneth the nerves, and consumeth the mind. (’Abdul-Bahá, The Compilation of Compilations vol II, p. 246)

The amount of illness caused by . . . indulgence in alcohol and opium is prodigious. (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 103)

Alcohol and opium affect a man’s conscience long before they affect his gait or cause obvious bodily disease (Dr. J.E. Esslemont, Baha’u'llah and the New Era, p. 104)

Smoking:

The smoker is vulnerable to many and various diseases. (Abdu’l-Baha, Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Baha, p. 147)

Every qualified physician hath ruled — and this hath also been proved by tests — that one of the components of tobacco is a deadly poison, and that the smoker is vulnerable to many and various diseases. (Adib Taherzadeh, The Revelation of Baha’u'llah v 3, p. 438)

For more in this series:

Part 3: Physical Causes of Disease

Reasons for Disease – A Baha’i Perspective

This is part two of an eleven part series on the Baha’i Perspective on Disease. In Part 1, we looked at how I got interested in this topic and looked at some quotes on prevention of disease.

No one is exempt from disease – even the messengers of God:

It is mentioned in the Book and attributed to the tongue of the unbelievers thus - “And they say what kind of a Messenger is this? he eateth food and walketh in the streets (as we do) . . . As those Temples of Holiness were subject to outward indigence and adversity and also to natural and bodily necessities, such as hunger, diseases and incidental happenings, the people would become bewildered in saharas of doubt and suspicion and in deserts of imagination and perplexity, (wondering) how could one come from God, claim predominance over all in the earth . . . and yet be afflicted by such trifling matters. (Compilations, Baha’i Scriptures, p. 24)

Even the Beloved ones, the Prophets of God, have never been exempt from the ills that are to be found in our world; poverty, disease, bereavement (Shoghi Effendi, Lights of Guidance, p. 603)

God wants us to be healthy:

Is it possible for one member or part to be in distress and the other members to be at ease? It is impossible! Hence God has desired that in the body politic of humanity each one shall enjoy perfect welfare and comfort. (Abdu’l-Baha, Foundations of World Unity, p. 38)

Our health is in the hands of God:

All is in the hands of God, and without Him there can be no health in us! (Abdu’l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 19)

Diseases can be either physical or spiritual:

For the provoking cause of disease — that is to say, the cause of the entrance of disease into the human body — is either a physical one or is the effect of excitement of the nerves. (Abdu’l-Baha, Some Answered Questions, p. 256)

Disease is of two kinds: material and spiritual. Take for instance, a cut hand; if you pray for the cut to be healed and do not stop its bleeding, you will not do much good; a material remedy is needed. (Abdu’l-Baha, Abdu’l-Baha in London, p. 65)

For more in this series:

Part 2: Reasons for Disease

Disease – A Baha’i Perspective

Disease - Perhaps you think this is a strange topic on a blog that professes to be “the Leading Online Resource for Baha’i Quotes on Recovery from Abuse”. So bear with me as I explain.

Recently I came across a Christian bestseller called “A More Excellent Way”, in which the author claims that about 80% of all disease has a spiritual root. And every page of his book has biblical quotes to back up his claims, and 125 pages of testimonials from people who’ve been cured by applying spiritual principles. That got my attention! But what really hooked me, was his assertion that fear and a broken heart are often at the core of many diseases. Those are topics very dear to my heart as a survivor of many types of abuse!

Last night I made a list of 15 ailments which I live with, which may or may not be related to my abusive past (I’ve never thought of it that way before) or may or may not have a spiritual root. These include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Hypothyroidism, Adrenal Exhaustion, Short Sightedness and Night blindness, Severe Food Intolerances (wheat, gluten, sugar, yeast, dairy, caffeine, nightshades, soy, peanuts . . . ), severe dust and mold intolerances, Insomnia, Backache, Sensitive Bladder, Fatigue, Osteopenia (precursor to osteoporosis), TMJ (grinding teeth), as well as grief, self-pity, restlessness – the list goes on and on.

Over the years, I’ve taken many different, often contradictory paths and heard many promises of health and healing. Many of those promises have come up short, with most of my efforts to find proper treatment resulting in disease or pain management, not cure.

So I wanted to find out what the Bahá’í Faith said about disease and healing. After all, I believe that Bahá’u'lláh is the Divine Physician, with the remedy for the ailments of the age, so why wouldn’t I take His claims seriously? The more I researched, the bigger the topic grew and the more fascinated I became. I wanted to share my findings with you as they come up. Hope you can relate to some of it, and check back often as I share what I’m learning.

As you will see, most of what follows comes directly from the Bahá’í Writings, so you can relate to their truth rather than my limited experience.

Intro:

This complex world is very sick. It is dying from lack of a skilled physician. Its disease is so complicated, so affecting every part and organ, and the attending physicians-the statesman, moralists, and idealists-so ignorant of the underlying causes, that eminent dissolution is impending. Shall we come to the despairing conclusion that there is no wise Physician? Shall we supinely acquiesce that this dissolution is assured, and stand with watch in hand at the bedside of the dying patient awaiting the inevitable hour? Or shall we, possibly as a last desperate resort, if our faithless souls so wish to call it, turn to One who at least lays claim to ability to diagnose and prescribe? One who declares over and over again in Words of matchless power and eloquence His Divine Power to heal? (Howard Colby Ives, Portals to Freedom, p. 245)

Definition of Health:

The WHO constitution defines health as “a state of physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Many organizations are now adding to this definition a fourth dimension of health — spiritual well-being. (Baha’i International Community, 1995 Aug 26, Primary Health Care Empowerment of Women)

Prevention

Prevention:

By providing TBAs with access to primary health care facilities and training, by providing mothers with prenatal care, and by promoting simple hygiene measures, PHC programs have helped reduce high rates of maternal and child mortality and birth-related diseases. (Baha’i International Community, 1995 Aug 26, Primary Health Care Empowerment of Women)

Staying Healthy:

The body of man which, when healthy, can withstand manifold external pressures. It can endure extremes of temperature, overcome thirst and hunger, defend itself when confronted with hardship and preserve its wholesomeness against the effects of disease. (Adib Taherzadeh, The Child of the Covenant, p. 238)

For more in this series:

Part 1: Intro to Disease

Part 8: Material Treatment for Disease