noted. In..."

(294) Thy letter was received and its contents noted. In truth, thou hast
been thrown amid dire ordeals, enduring agonizing afflictions. These
trials were according to the consummate wisdom, therefore they were for
the best. It is good for man to endure (in such moments).

Reflect upon his holiness Job: What trials, calamities and perplexities
did he not endure! But these tests were like unto the fire and his
holiness Job was like unto pure gold. Assuredly gold is purified by being
submitted to the fire and if it contain any alloy or imperfection, it will
disappear. That is the reason why violent tests become the cause of the
everlasting glory of the righteous and are conducive to the destruction
and disappearance of the unrighteous.

The wisdom of all these tribulations that poured successively upon thee
was this, that thou shouldst be prepared and made ready for this Cause,
that thou mightiest expect the attainment to the greatest guidance, for
all these trials were but a preparation for thine entrance into the Most
Exalted Paradise and the beginning of obtaining this most great benefit.

Unless the season of winter appear, thunder roll, lightening flash, snow
and rain fall, hail and frost descend and the intensity of cold execute
its command, the season of the soul-refreshing spring would not come, the
fragrant breeze would not waft, the moderation of temperature would not be
realized, the roses and hyacinths would not grow, the surface of the heart
would not become a delectable paradise, the trees would not bloom, neither
would they bring forth fruits and leaves. That was the beginning of the
manifestation of these roses, hyacinths, buds, blossoms and fruits.

Therefore, be not distressed on account of those adversities which fell
upon thee; nay, rather, arise and render thanks that the ultimate goal is
the attainment to this eminent bounty and the enjoyment of this highest
gift of the almighty God. Consequently gird up the loins of thine
endeavor, that thereby some results might be produced, some fruits
gathered, the lamp of everlasting life ignited and the gifts of the Lord
of the Kingdom be manifest, so that thou mayest accomplish again, with
great yearning and exaltation, the worship of the Lord of Hosts.

"O thou who art firm in the Covenant!..."

O thou who art firm in the Covenant!

Thy last letter, sent by Mirza ........., hath arrived. It is not a very
long time since I wrote