man or a woman. How many women,
thus drawn to God, have surpassed men in the shadow of Baha' in bringing
men under it--women famous throughout the world!

The House of Justice, however, according to the positive commandments of
the Doctrine of God, has been specialized to the men, for a (specific)
reason or exercise of wisdom on the part of God, and this reason will
presently appear, even as the sun at midday.

And as to you--you other maid-servants attracted by the perfume of
God--establish spiritual gatherings (assemblies) and heavenly meetings.
This work is the beginning of the diffusing of the perfume of God and the
foundation of the elevating of the Word of God and the making known of the
commandments of God. Is there a blessing greater than this? These
spiritual gatherings (assemblies) are sustained (reinforced) by the Spirit
of God, and their protector is Abdul-Baha, who spreads his wings (over)
above them. Is there a blessing greater than this? These spiritual
gatherings (assemblies) are glowing lamps and heavenly gardens which cast
the light of knowledge upon the contingent world and cause the spirit of
life to penetrate to every quarter. This, then, is the best means of the
progress of the human race in all conditions and circumstances. Is there a
greater blessing than this?

"O thou who art attracted by the Fragrances of God!..."

O thou who art attracted by the Fragrances of God!

Verily, I read thy beautifully composed letter and thank God for that He
granted thee characteristics, attributes and deeds which made thee dear
and loved by the maid-servants of God and chosen to be the president of
the "Assembly of Teaching." Thank God for that He confirmed thee by this
wonderful bounty, and, verily, I supplicate unto Him to strengthen thee in
rendering this great service in His great vineyard, and to strengthen thy
respected husband in patience and forbearance in this test which will pass
away, by the help of God, and the veil be removed; difficulty will be
replaced by ease; hardships and trouble be changed into comfort, in the
shadow of His great Kingdom.

"O thou dear maid-servant of God!..."

O thou dear maid-servant of God!

Thank God that thou hast come near unto the Holy Threshold and art dear in
the Kingdom of His Glory. Thou art president of an assembly which is a
type of the assemblages of the Supreme Concourse and a reflection of the
semblances of the Kingdom of God. With heart