the uncertainties and anxieties that face and afflict
their country to deter them from carrying out the original plan they have
so nobly conceived. Let them remember that a firm resolution on their
part, an absolute rededication of their resources, and an actual attempt
to translate into action their meritorious intentions, coupled with
perseverance in the discharge of their duties, would suffice to ensure the
success of the mission to which they are now committed. The time is indeed
ripe, and the minds and hearts of the suffering multitudes are being
mysteriously prepared for the Great Message that can alone redeem, exalt
and regenerate a sore-tried and bewildered humanity. I will specially and
fervently pray for the success of any and every effort the dearly-beloved
friends in India and Burma may arise to exert.

November 28, 1940

Translation of Baha'u'llah's Writings

Regarding his instruction to the N.S.A. of Iran to the effect that
Baha'u'llah's writings in Arabic should not be translated into Persian;
this applies to the translation of the revealed words into Persian only.
Your Assembly, therefore, may proceed with its plan for the rendering of
the Tablet of Ahmad, the three daily obligatory prayers and other Tablets,
into Urdu.

. . . .

With reference to ... question whether it is permissible for the Baha'is
to see pictures; there is nothing in the Teachings that would forbid such
a practice.

. . . .

Also with regard to the practice of circumcision; the Teachings bear no
reference to this matter, and it is therefore not enjoined upon the
believers.

Training of Children

The question of the training and education of children in case one of the
parents is a non-Baha'i is one which solely concerns the parents
themselves, who should decide about it the way they find best and most
conducive to the maintenance of the unity of their family, and to the
future welfare of their children. Once the child comes of age, however, he
should be given full freedom to choose his religion, irrespective of the
wishes and desires of his parents. Membership of the International House
of Justice

As regards the membership of the International House of Justice,
Abdu'l-Baha states in a Tablet that it is confined to men, and that the
wisdom of it will be revealed as manifest as the sun in the future. In any
case the believers should know that, as Abdu'l-Baha Himself has explicitly
stated that sexes are e