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It is hoped that, in this lesson, you will get a further glimpse of Bahá'u'lláh's grandeur and majesty and gain an understanding that He was at all times and under all conditions victorious, achieving God's Holy Purpose.
Let us review the following ideas:
We have already learned that Bahá'u'lláh's life on this earth was filled with suffering. What were some of the afflictions and ordeals that He endured?
In His homeland, Persia, He was imprisoned, put in chains, and stripped of His worldly possessions.
He was then exiled four times. To where was He banished the last time, and what were the conditions like there?
Yet we also saw that, despite the efforts exerted by His enemies to still His Voice and destroy His Faith, Bahá'u'lláh continued to proclaim His Cause, to high and low alike, and He called upon the kings and rulers of the earth to uphold the principle of justice and to work for the welfare of the people of the world.
How did the kings and rulers respond to His summons?"
You will remember that, when imprisoned and in chains in the Síyáh-Chál, Bahá'u'lláh heard these words on every side:
'Verily, We shall render Thee victorious by Thyself and by Thy Pen.'
Years later He arrived in 'Akká, outwardly a prisoner and an exile. But you know that what He saw in the spiritual world was different. He said that He was welcomed with banners of light and that the Voice of the Spirit cried out, saying: 'Soon will all that dwell on earth be enlisted under these banners.'
God promised Bahá'u'lláh that He would be made victorious.
Today you are going to see that soon in 'Akká, as in other places, the hearts of the people were transformed by the loving words of Bahá'u'lláh, and the wish of His beloved son, Mírzá Mihdí, was fulfilled. His followers were able to attain His presence, and His Cause became stronger and spread wider each day. Though outwardly Bahá'u'lláh remained a prisoner, He continued to gain more and more ascendance over the powers of the earth. Every time His enemies had devised a new way to silence Him, His fame and following grew. The rulers of Persia and the Ottoman Empire were too blinded by ambition and greed to understand that they were powerless to inflict harm on His Cause.
In the passage you will memorize in this lesson, Bahá'u'lláh assures us that the Cause of God has the power to withstand all opposition. Think of all the forces that rose up against Bahá'u'lláh, and yet He was unshaken. Little did the rulers of the time realize that history would prove the Prisoner of 'Akká to be the King of Glory.
MEMORIZATION AID FOR PRAYERS
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Though the forces of the nations be arrayed against Him, though the kings of the earth be leagued to undermine His Cause, the power of His might shall stand unshaken.
MEANING OF SOME OF THE WORDS IN THE QUOTE
Use this to write all the words you don't know but want to remember!
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Historical episodes
This lesson is about the period of Bahá'u'lláh's life spent in 'Akká and its vicinity after being released from imprisonment in the barracks.
You know that Bahá'u'lláh's suffering in the fortress-town of 'Akká was so immense that He designated it the "Most Great Prison".
Confined to the army barracks by order of the Sulṭán, He and the small band of exiles that accompanied Him were subjected to the severest hardship. The loss of His beloved son Mírzá Mihdí, the Purest Branch, was a source of unspeakable sorrow. But four months later, He and His companions were asked to leave the army barracks to make way for troops. They were moved from house to house, staying only a few months in each and kept watch over by guards.
Bahá'u'lláh and His family finally settled in what is now known as the House of 'Abbúd.
They remained there for several years, and it was in that house that He revealed His Most Holy Book, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, which you will learn more about in a later class period.
Gradually the restrictions on them were relaxed, as the inhabitants of the city began to recognize their innocence and to admire and revere Bahá'u'lláh. An increasing number of pilgrims from Persia were able to attain His presence during this period, and thus the wish of the Purest Branch that the gates of the city would be opened wide to his Father's followers was fulfilled.
Although Bahá'u'lláh and the believers enjoyed much freedom in 'Akká, He remained confined within the city walls, for the order of the Sulṭán was still in force. But this situation was not to last. People of influence and authority eventually grew friendly towards the Faith and came to respect Bahá'u'lláh.
There was even a governor of 'Akká who seemed to have caught a glimpse of His station. He was so deeply moved by Bahá'u'lláh's majesty that he begged Him to be given the privilege of serving Him in some way. Bahá'u'lláh refused, not wanting anything for Himself, but instead suggested that he restore a disused water canal for the city.
The water in 'Akká was terribly foul, and the canal, once fixed, allowed the people of the city to have fresh water.
One day, Bahá'u'lláh mentioned that He had not seen greenery for nine years. The country, He commented, was the world of the soul and the city the world of the body. When 'Abdu'l- Bahá heard these words, He realized that the time had come for His Father to go to the countryside and enjoy the beauty of nature.
There lived a prominent man in 'Akká in those days who owned a lovely place in the country called Mazra'ih. Unfortunately the man was not friendly to the Faith. 'Abdu'l-Bahá went to his home and asked to rent Mazra'ih from him. Surprisingly, the owner agreed. 'Abdu'l- Bahá acquired the place at a low rent, repaired it, and beautified the garden.
He then went to the presence of Bahá'u'lláh and informed Him that Mazra'ih was ready for Him and that there was a carriage waiting for Him outside. But Bahá'u'lláh refused to go, saying that He was still a prisoner. There was a highly respected religious leader in 'Akká who loved Bahá'u'lláh and was greatly favored by Him. 'Abdu'l-Bahá explained the situation to the man and asked him to go to the presence of Bahá'u'lláh, fall on his knees, take hold of Bahá'u'lláh's hands and not let go until He promised to leave the city.
The man did exactly as 'Abdu'l-Bahá had asked him to do. But Bahá'u'lláh refused again, repeating that He was a prisoner. "God forbid! Who has the power to make You a prisoner?" insisted the man.
"You have kept Yourself in prison. It was Your Own Will to be imprisoned . . ."
He begged Bahá'u'lláh to leave the walls of the prison-city and go to Mazra'ih. "It is beautiful and verdant," he told Him. "The trees are lovely, and the oranges like balls of fire!" For a whole hour the man pleaded until finally his patience and persistence were rewarded, and Bahá'u'lláh agreed to move to Mazra'ih.
The next day, 'Abdu'l-Bahá brought the carriage and drove Bahá'u'lláh to His new residence. While everyone knew that Bahá'u'lláh was still a prisoner by the order of the Sulṭán, no one dared raise any objections. He was, in reality, as loved and respected as a king.
Two years after Bahá'u'lláh went to live in Mazra'ih, a beautiful mansion not too far distant fell vacant. It had been built as a country home for a wealthy man and his family. The mansion was on a property called Bahjí, which means "delight".
When an epidemic broke out in the area, killing many, people panicked and abandoned their homes. 'Abdu'l- Bahá was thus able to rent Bahjí for His Father, and in the tranquility of its surroundings, Bahá'u'lláh would pass the remaining thirteen years of His life on this earth.
He was now held in esteem and veneration by people of all backgrounds, and the prestige of the community of His followers was well established. Leaders and local officials would often request the honor of attaining His presence.
And although His Faith had not yet spread to the Western world, there were some who were aware of the Prisoner of 'Akká and the great influence He had on all those with whom He came into contact. One of these was Edward Granville Browne, a well-known British scholar, whom you will learn about in another class.
During this period of His life, Bahá'u'lláh visited the nearby town of Haifa three times. The third visit was the longest. He remained there for three months. It was while in Haifa, over the course of the visit, that news reached Bahá'u'lláh of the martyrdom of seven believers in the city of Yazd in Persia. All seven had been put to death in a single day, one after another, in the most cruel and barbarous ways, in front of the jeering and enthusiastic crowds.
Then the governor of the city called a holiday; shops were closed and the city lit into the night for the festivities. You see, Náṣiri'd-Dín Sháh, the king of Persia, never gave up his efforts to destroy the Faith in the land of its birth. Whenever it suited his own despotic purpose, his government and the religious leaders would tell lies and falsehoods about the Faith, so that people would feel hatred towards the followers of Bahá'u'lláh and would attack and harm them.
Many were called to the field of martyrdom. So deep was Bahá'u'lláh's sorrow at learning the circumstances of the deaths of the seven believers in Yazd that, for nine days, no divine verses flowed from His pen, and no one was admitted into His presence. On the ninth day, He summoned the believers and foretold of the king's doom.
Before long, Bahá'u'lláh said, Persia would be released from the king's tyrannical reign. And, indeed, some years later, the night before the celebration of the anniversary of his rise to the throne, he was shot and killed by one of his own people, and his sons soon lost the throne and their family name faded into history.
What you should also know is that it was during that same visit to Haifa, while standing on the slopes of Mount Carmel, that Bahá'u'lláh pointed out to 'Abdu'l-Bahá the spot where the Shrine of the Báb was to be built. Later, of course, in the vicinity of the Holy Shrine of the Báb, the Seat of the Universal House of Justice was established. Today the twin cities of Haifa and 'Akká have become the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá'í Faith, which has spread to countries throughout the globe.
Bahá'u'lláh raised the banner of universal peace and revealed the Word of God to humanity. Although the powers of the earth combined their forces against Him, He was victorious over them as God had promised Him when under chains in the Síyáh-Chál. During His own lifetime, His Message revived the hearts of thousands of people, and today His Cause continues its onward march.
The forces of the entire world are not capable of preventing it from achieving its ultimate goal, which is to unify humankind in one universal Cause and in one common Faith.
From the lessons in earlier grades, we already have a profound connection to 'Abdu'l-Bahá, and this historical episode gives us an indication of how devoted He was to His beloved Father. You may wish to reflect for a moment on the station of 'Abdu'l-Bahá as the perfect Exemplar of Bahá'u'lláh's teachings. What insights does it reveal into the greatness of the Cause? What other spiritual insights do the historical episode offer, and how will you ensure the children glean such insights as you narrate the events to them?
For any of the figures we heard about, use the biography page to write down the information you would like to remember
Teachers Pay Teachers Free Biography page
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Bahá'u'lláh spent twenty-four years in 'Akká and its vicinity, from 1868 to 1892.
After nine years of confinement in 'Akká, Bahá'u'lláh consented to leave its gates.
Bahá'u'lláh spent the last thirteen years of His life on this earth in Bahjí.
In one of His visits to Haifa, Bahá'u'lláh pointed out to 'Abdu'l-Bahá the spot on which the Shrine of the Báb was to be built.
The twin cities of Haifa and 'Akká are the administrative and spiritual world center of the Bahá'í Faith.
You are a fellow prisoner in Most Great Prison and you have come to love and respect Baha'ullah. You just heard that the new water canal will be fixed and water will start to flow again into the city.
Act out this scene, how you are feeling before the news, and after the news.
You and a group of your friends want to do something to help improve the living conditions of everyone in this prison.
In your groups discuss what you may be able to do. Share your idea(s) with your class.
Can you think of how you can make your neighborhoods a better place to live?
BAHA'U'LLAH MISSED SEEING GREENERY.
DESIGN A GARDEN FOR SOMEONE WHO ALSO MISSES GREEN STUFF
THIS WEBSITE HAS SOME FREE PRINTABLES TO HELP IN PLANNING
MAKE SOME SEED MATS TO GIVE TO SOMEONE TO GROW
CHECK OUT HOW HERE AND HERE
MAKE GRASS SEED HEADS HERE
DRAW THE GARDENS IN HAIFA
There are so many images that this lesson offers as possible ideas for drawings.
One, for example, is the Mansion of Bahjí.
Another example, a picture of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice as a symbol of the triumph of Bahá'u'lláh's Cause over the forces that rose up against Him.
CHANGE OF HEART
CHANGING ENEMIES INTO FRIENDS
DIVINE POETRY
DAYSPRING MAGAZINE
G4-L11-Review-G2-quote-Download
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ZOROASTER AND THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD CHARACTER G3 L8
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GRADE 3 LESSON 8
MUHAMMAD AND THE SUBMISSION TO THE WILL OF GOD
The purpose of this lesson is to help us understand that all the Manifestations of God call upon humanity to live in a state of submission to His Will.
We will learn specifically about the life of Muhammad, Whose teachings spread among the Arab people, making them, as Abdu'l-Baha explains, "superior to the other nations of the earth in learning, in the arts, mathematics, civilization, government and other sciences."
In this connection, we will gain a sense of the power of submission to the Will of God, one of Muhammad's principle teachings, to unite people around a center and to promote order and prosperity.
We know that, because of our deep love for God's beauty, we constantly strive to do all that He asks of us. The teachings that the Manifestations of God bring to humanity tell us what He wants us to do, and what we should not do. By allowing the teachings of God's Manifestations to fill our hearts and minds, we begin to want only what He wants, to desire only what He desires, and to take pleasure in that which is pleasing to Him.
Order and harmony are brought about as more and more people live in a state of submission to God's Will, all focused on His good pleasure. Think of the planets, all circling harmoniously, with the sun at their center. Through submission to the Will of God, humanity lives harmoniously and makes great progress- governments are just, communities are well organized, education flourishes, knowledge increases, and beauty is manifested in music and the arts.
Muhammad was a Manifestation sent by God some 1,400 years ago. He appeared among a people in a desert region at a time when their great capacity and rich potential were hidden behind selfish desires and ignorance. He taught them to put away such desires, to trust God, and to submit to His Will. He raised them out of the depths of cruelty and contention and showed them how to live in harmony according to Divine teachings, causing them to become examples of orderly and civilized life.
Whose good pleasure do we seek at all times?
How can we be sure that we are acting according to God's good pleasure?
Order and harmony are brought about as more and more people live in a state of submission to God's Will, all focused on His good pleasure
How are the planets that circle the sun orderly and harmonious? Do they ever fight with one another? Do the bigger planets ever want to control the smaller ones?
Obey the laws of physics and are in harmony with one another. Don't fight or want control
When everyone is focused on God's good pleasure and carrying out His commands, how does it change people? How does humanity progress?
humanity lives harmoniously and makes great progress- governments are just, communities are well organized, education flourishes, knowledge increases, and beauty is manifested in music and the arts
Who was Muhammad?
Messenger of God
What effect did the teachings of Muhammad have on the people of His time?
His teachings caused them to become examples of orderly and civilized life
REMEMBER TO DOWNLOAD THE PDF TO HELP MEMORIZE THE PRAYERS FROM LESSON 4 IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO!
Glory be to Thee, O my God! Make manifest the rivers of Thy sovereign might, that the waters of Thy Unity may flow through the inmost realities of all things, in such wise that the banner of Thine unfailing guidance may be raised aloft in the kingdom of thy command and the stars of Thy divine splendour may shine brightly in the heaven of thy majesty. Potent art Thou to do what pleaseth Thee. Thou, verily, art the Help in Peril, the Self-Subsisting.
I beseech Thee, O my God, by all the transcendent glory of Thy Name, to clothe Thy loved ones in the robe of justice and to illumine their beings with the light of trustworthiness. Thou art the One that hath power to do as He pleaseth and Who holdeth within His grasp the reins of all things, visible and invisible.
I have wakened in Thy shelter, O my God, and it becometh him that seeketh that shelter to abide within the Sanctuary of Thy protection and the Stronghold of Thy defence. Illumine my inner being, O my Lord, with the splendours of the Dayspring of Thy Revelation, even as Thou didst illumine my outer being with the morning light of Thy favour.
O my God, my Master, the Goal of my desire! This, Thy servant, seeketh to sleep in the shelter of Thy mercy, and to repose beneath the canopy of Thy grace, imploring Thy care and Thy protection. I beg of Thee, O my Lord, by Thine eye that sleepeth not, to guard mine eyes from beholding aught beside Thee. Strengthen, then, their vision that they may discern Thy signs, and behold the Horizon of Thy Revelation. Thou art He before the revelations of Whose omnipotence the quintessence of power hath trembled. No God is there but thee, the Almighty, the All-Subduing, The Unconditioned.
A RING UPON THE HAND
STRIVE THAT YOUR ACTIONS
The source of all good is trust in God, submission unto His command, and contentment with His holy will and pleasure
Tablets of Bahá'u'lláh/Words of Wisdom
Source– where something comes from
The source of the river was high in the mountain
Submission- accepting and yielding to a higher force or will
Written submission for children's class teachers was sent out to our community
Contentment- a state of happiness and satisfaction
They finally found contentment in living a life of service
USE THE WORKSHEET
For any words, you are not sure of or record the ones above and save them in your notebook/lapbook Download here
SEND A POSTCARD WITH THE QUOTE TO A FRIEND PRINT OR EMAIL
The story has a historical component to give some background content. Also, there may be props for the story, videos, and other resources to use as you like
As the final lesson, we will learn about the life and Mission of Muḥammad, the last Manifestation Who appeared before the Báb and Bahá'u'lláh.
Muḥammad was a Manifestation sent by God some 1400 years ago to the people who lived in the region we know as Arabia. You remember that one of the descendants of Abraham, Ishmael, was the father of the Arab people, and they had believed in the one true God and followed His teachings. But centuries had passed, and they had long turned away from Him and had forgotten how to live together peacefully. There were many warring tribes that worshipped idols and behaved in the most cruel and barbarous ways. The great capacity and rich potential of the Arab people were hidden behind veils of ignorance when Muḥammad appeared among them.
Muḥammad was born in the city of Mecca in the year 570 AD. As a young man, He became a merchant, and in His dealings with people He displayed such a sublime and noble character that He was known as "The Truthful" and "The Trustworthy". At the age of forty, He became aware of His Divine Mission, while praying and meditating in the Cave of Hira. When Muḥammad began to share God's Message, the people of Mecca rose up against Him, and for some twelve years, He and those who followed Him were the constant targets of the darts of hatred. At last, when Muḥammad's very life was under threat, they migrated to the city of Medina. It was there that His Message spread rapidly, and many souls came to recognize His station as a Manifestation of God. He taught them that there is only one God to Whom we should turn in worship. It is God Whom we should trust, and by Whose Will we should all abide.
After several years in Medina, Muḥammad returned to His native city of Mecca, where the people also embraced His Cause. And through obedience to the laws and teachings that He revealed, the Arab people were eventually united and became renowned for their learning in the arts and sciences, reaching the greatest heights of civilization. The word "Islám" means "submission to God", and the light of Islám, the religion founded by Muḥammad, shone across all of Arabia and beyond. His words were recorded in the Qu'rán, the Holy Book of His followers, and today all of humanity has access to His Divine Revelation.
There are 3 Stories in today's lesson
Muḥammad's father died before He was born, and His mother when He was only six. For most of His childhood and youth, He was raised by His uncle. There were no schools for formal education in Arabia at that time, and Muḥammad was not taught to read and write but learned the trade of His uncle, who was a merchant. Over time, as He helped His uncle with his business, Muḥammad gained a reputation for His integrity. He was called "The Truthful", because He never told a lie, and "The Trustworthy", because He never deceived anyone and always kept His word. His noble reputation eventually came to the attention of Khadija, a widow who was known for her purity. She came to admire Muḥammad's honest and upright character. At the age of twenty-five, Muḥammad married Khadija, and they worked together as merchants.
Muḥammad was deeply disturbed by the way the people of Mecca lived. Thousands of years before, a sanctuary had been built in Mecca for the worship of one God as taught by Abraham. But this sacred place, known as the Ka'bah, had long been filled with idols, some say 360 of them, each with a different name and all worshipped by different tribes. These tribes were constantly at war, and when one tribe claimed victory over another, the women and children of the losing tribe were taken captive and suffered greatly as slaves to merciless masters. The region had sunk to the lowest depths of cruelty and despair. Muḥammad, unable to bear the godlessness and degradation of life in Mecca, would often retreat to the Cave of Hira, concealed in a mountain just outside the city, where He would pray and meditate. It was in this cave that Muḥammad, then forty years of age, became aware of His Divine Mission. All around Him He heard the voice of the Angel Gabriel, calling upon Him to speak out in the name of the Lord, God.
Muḥammad returned home and told Khadija what He had experienced. She became the first to recognize His station as a Manifestation and to accept His Message: that there is only one God, He Who had also spoken to the Manifestations of the past; that people should turn to God with humility, worship Him, trust in Him and be obedient to His Will; and that, in accordance with His Will, all people should be kind to one another, honest, and just. For some time, Muḥammad made His station known only to His close relatives and friends, some of whom chose to follow Him, including His cousin 'Alí and His friend Abú-Bakr.
Eventually, Muḥammad proclaimed God's Message to the people of His tribe. Only a few, however, understood the importance of His words and began to follow His teachings. They became known as Muslims. The others did not want to give up their old ways and live according to the laws of God. The idea of change angered them. They behaved with the utmost cruelty towards Muḥammad and the small but growing band of His followers. When Muḥammad spoke of God's Message, they laughed at Him and attacked Him with stones. For years Muḥammad and His followers endured violent persecution. Some of His companions were killed and their property confiscated. From time to time, members of His tribe would try to persuade Muḥammad to stop spreading His teachings, in return for wealth or power. He, of course, would refuse. His uncle and His wife were greatly respected in Mecca, and they were able to act as Muḥammad's protectors for a time. But after their deaths, both in the same year, life for Muslims in the city of Mecca became even more difficult.
After many years of suffering, Muḥammad was visited by two leaders from other tribes. They had decided to embrace His teachings and offered, in the city of Medina, a safe place for the Muslims to live. Muḥammad instructed His followers to move to Medina, and they gradually left Mecca for that city. His enemies, however, were determined to put an end to His life while they had the chance. They devised a plot to kill Him, and one night they surrounded His house with the intention of carrying out their plan. They could easily see inside the house and would know whether He tried to leave. So Muḥammad turned to His faithful cousin 'Alí. He asked him whether he would be willing to cover himself with a blanket and pretend to be sleeping in His bed. Without hesitation, despite the danger to his own life, 'Alí gladly accepted. Such was his love for God's Manifestation. And, while 'Alí lay resting on the bed, Muḥammad was able to leave the house undetected and join His friend Abú-Bakr.
According to tradition, Muḥammad and Abú-Bakr then made their way out of the city in the dark of night, guided by the moon and stars, and took shelter in a cave in the mountainous desert. By morning it had been realized that Muḥammad was gone, and His enemies were in fast pursuit of Him. As the sun rose, the sound of galloping horses grew louder, and Abú-Bakr was filled with fear. How could he protect Muḥammad here in the desert, he wondered. Abú-Bakr held his breath and listened as the enemies drew closer and closer until there were footsteps just outside the cave. Abú-Bakr heard voices, but he could not make out the words. He was certain that they would be found. But Muḥammad reassured him, reminding him that God was with them. And, indeed, the search party soon left, without even looking inside the cave. You see, there was a spider at the opening of the cave, and right after Muḥammad had entered, it had spun a huge web, closing off the entrance. When the men searching for Muḥammad reached the cave, they assumed no one could be inside it because the web was perfect and unbroken. It must have been a very long time since anyone had entered that cave, they thought. So they continued looking elsewhere, but with no success. Tired, frustrated and confused, they finally returned to Mecca empty-handed. Muḥammad and Abú-Bakr remained in the cave for three days to make sure the enemies had gone and then left through another opening, preserving the web that had served as their protection. With camels brought by a trusted friend, they set out for Medina, traveling by night for several days, until they, at last, reached that city safely. Muḥammad's move from Mecca to Medina is known as the Hijrah.
From His new home of Medina, Muḥammad was able to teach God's laws and commandments much more widely, and people from different tribes began to live together in harmony according to His teachings. Those who rejected them, however, were still determined to kill Muḥammad and His followers. The Muslims were steadfast in their faith and devoted to God and His laws. They did their utmost to avoid contention. But, they knew the cruelty of their enemies, and at times they were forced to take up arms to defend themselves and protect their children from enslavement. Over time, the sacrifices of the Muslims and their transformed way of life helped people to realize the truth of God's Message.
There are many accounts that show the transformative effect of the spiritual powers that emanated from the Person of Muḥammad. In one such account, it is said that Muḥammad once awoke to find a soldier armed with a sword standing above Him, intending to take His life. The angry man asked, "Who is there now to save Thee?" Muḥammad replied that God would save Him. The soldier became afraid and dropped the sword, which Muḥammad picked up. He then asked the soldier who would save him. The man did not follow God's teachings and realized that he was alone, with no one to come to his aid. Muḥammad did not harm the soldier but handed the sword back to him, telling him to learn to show forth mercy. The man was changed by this experience and devoted himself to Muḥammad and His teachings.
After several years the people of Mecca agreed to let the Muslims visit the holy sanctuary, the Ka'bah, where they could gather once a year to worship God. But soon the agreement collapsed, and the city was once again closed to the Muslims. The followers of Muḥammad now numbered in the thousands, and they went to Mecca en masse, ready to draw arms if necessary. But the people, seeing the waves of His followers approaching the city, surrendered without resistance. Muḥammad then made a pilgrimage, or hajj, to the Ka'bah, which He restored to a place of worship dedicated to the praise and glorification of the one true God.
Eventually, many of those who had at first rejected Muḥammad's teachings came to believe in one God and changed their ways, striving to align their will with the Will of God. Through His words, which were recorded in a Holy Book called the Qu'rán, they learned to turn their hearts to God, especially through prayer and fasting, and to reflect those heavenly qualities that Muḥammad had manifested throughout His life. Under His influence, the people of the region rose from the sad condition in which He found them to the highest state of civilization. The warring tribes united and systems for organizing communities into well-ordered nations were established. Great universities were founded, knowledge of arts and sciences expanded, and new and beautiful forms of architecture emerged. At a time when other parts of the world were in decline, the Arab world flourished and the effects of Muḥammad's teachings ushered in a whole new era of human civilization.
FROM BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE STORY
FACTS ABOUT MUHAMMAD
Muḥammad was a Manifestation of God born in the city Mecca, in the Arabian region, in the year 570 AD.
While engaged as a merchant, Muḥammad was often referred to as "The Truthful" and "The Trustworthy".
Muḥammad taught that there is one God, that people should turn to Him, worship Him, trust in Him, and be obedient to His Will.
Muḥammad and His followers were persecuted by the people of Mecca and went to Medina, where His Message reached many souls.
After several years in Medina, Muḥammad returned to Mecca and the people soon embraced His Cause.
The words of Muḥammad are recorded in a Holy Book called the Qu'rán.
Muḥammad's Message united the Arabian tribes and raised their level of civilization.
Facts Zoroaster
G3-L8-FACTS-ABOUT-ZOROASTERDownload
Today we will act out the story of Zoroaster's visit to the court of Vishtaspa, culminating in the king's acceptance of Zoroaster's Message.
Need a Narrator: The part of the Manifestation Himself is never portrayed by a person.
Vishtaspa,
the scheming priests,
and joyful courtiers.
How do the courtiers express the joy in their hearts?
How does Vishtaspa react to Zoroaster's words?
What expressions and gestures does he use to show his eagerness to hear more?
How do the priests act when Zoroaster first arrives?
How does their reaction change?
What might they say to each other in plotting to have Him banished from the court?
Hula Hoop Pass
Have the group form a circle holding hands. Ask two people to let go of their grip long enough for them to place their hands through a hula hoop before rejoining them.
The team task is to pass the hula hoop around the circle in a specified direction until it returns to the starting point.
Silly Willy
Two lines stand facing each other and become teams.
One player from each team, at the opposite end of the line, start by bowing to each other and calling out "Silly Willy"
The two players then walk toward and past each other without laughter or smiling, while the teams attempt to make the passer-by from the opposite team burst into laughter. (specify beforehand that it all needs to be clean and appropriate)
If a player should crack a smile, they join the line of their opponents.
5. The game ends when there is only one team left, or everyone is too laughed out to continue!
LAYERED PAPER: INSPIRED BY THE STORY OF ZOROASTER GOING TO THE MOUNTAINS
This is a layered paper scene of the mountain area where Zohrester went to pray and meditate to find the truth. The quote will be attached to this layered paper scene.
Download pdf, print, and cut
layer using foam tape or cardboard pieces so that each layer is slightly raised
IMAGES TO DOWNLOAD, PRINT, AND LAYER HERE
ACTIVITIES FROM THE AUSTRALIAN PEACE PACK
THE AUSTRALIAN PEACE PACK
Puzzle for Zoroaster HERE
Craft for Zoroaster HERE
FROM BRILLIANT STAR MAGAZINE
Maya Radiant Character
Chain Recation
Mystery Reflect
Go here for more great stuff
based on transforming people's character
Try making a never-ending card. the pictures can be all the same as the video below, or have them transform from something like a cocoon to a butterfly, etc.
SCIENCE transforming kernels to popcorn
Nice activity that becomes the snack. Show the children how kernels transform into popcorn but need something for this to happen: heat and oil. Once it transforms, it takes up a different space and looks different. Here is a link for more information if needed
Waste not your time in idleness and sloth. Occupy yourselves with that which profiteth yourselves and others.
Bahá'u'lláh – From "Bishárát" [Glad-Tidings]
dOWNLOAD THE REVIEW QUOTE MEMORY AID HERE
ALL DONE MONKEY: A GREAT RESOURCE FOR KIDS TO LEARN MORE
LINK TO CONTENT HERE
TWINKL: RESOURCE THAT HAS FREE AND PAID CONTENT
CHECK IT OUT HERE
Tags Baha'i, Baha'i children class material, children class, crafts, GOOD CHARACTER, GRADE 3, lesson 8, PRAYER, QUOTE, ruhi, Ruhi bk 3 children's class, Ruhi book 3, Ruhi Children Class, STORY, zoroaster, ZOROASTER AND THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD CHARACTER LESSON 8 GRADE 3
Baha'i Cards Children class Free Kids Can Do Ruhi Book 3 Template
What Does Forgiveness Look Like? Lesson 11 Grade 1
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Lesson 11 Grade 1 Ruhi Book 3 Forgiveness
What is Forgiveness?
How do we forgive others?
Why should we practice the virtue of Forgiveness?
When do we practice the virtue of Forgiveness?
What does forgiveness mean to you? Forgiveness means letting go of hard feelings like anger, sadness, or frustration that happen when you or someone else makes a mistake. It's saying "Thank you" or "That's okay" when someone apologizes and does not stay upset about what they did. It's having patience with yourself and others, and recognizing that no one is perfect—everyone makes mistakes. Forgiveness doesn't mean that all of a sudden what someone did doesn't hurt or isn't wrong. It means that you find it in your heart to give the person another chance.
Did you know that forgiveness is one of the attributes of God? We all make mistakes, and God forgives us when we ask for forgiveness and try our best to do better. 'Abdu'l-Bahá modeled forgiveness and always told us to be forgiving with one another. He said we should see with eyes of forgiveness and overlook one another's faults. If we follow 'Abdu'l-Bahá's example, we will show forgiveness not only to our friends when they make mistakes but also to those who are unkind to us.
VISIT MORE LESSONS HERE
We are Memorizing The Prayer: Blessed is the spot
Blessed is the spot, and the house,
and the place, and the city,
and the heart, and the mountain,
and the refuge, and the cave,
and the valley, and the land,
and the sea, and the island,
and the meadow where mention
of God hath been made,
and His praise glorified
". . . let your adorning be forgiveness and mercy and that which cheereth the hearts of the well-favored of God."
Ursula was not feeling well. Her friend Elsie brought her flowers and sat with her for a long time, telling stories and talking. Elsie's visit made Ursula feel much better. Ursula was cheered by her visit.
Mrs. Sanchez received a long letter from her husband who had gone away to a nearby town for work. The letter brought the good news that he would soon be coming home. The news greatly cheered her.
Favored
The teacher loved all of her students and paid special attention to each one. She favored them all.
James liked all of the subjects at school, but he did best in science. Science was the subject he favored most.
Send a postcard to a friend
G1L11 Postcard
let your adorning be forgiveness
I Thank And Praise Thee Lord
Looking For Good
Story Of Forgiveness
Note, while telling the story, have a few props available to show the children: WORDS IN BOLD: A sign saying CLOSED, KEYS, TELEGRAM, PRESENT, LETTER. a ticket for the trip is additional if you like.
During the days the Master lived in 'Akká, there was a governor who, time and time again, tried to harm the Bahá'ís. On one occasion he came up with a plan to destroy their means of livelihood: he ordered his guards to close down the shops of all the Bahá'ís and to bring him the keys. But 'Abdu'l-Bahá learned of the governor's plan and advised the friends not to open their shops the next day. He told them to wait and see what God would ordain.
Imagine the governor's surprise when he heard that his guards could not bring him the keys because the shops had not been opened. But before he could think of what to do next, something unexpected happened. A telegram arrived from his superiors dismissing him from his post as governor of the city. And so the shops of the Bahá'ís were saved. The ex-governor was ordered to leave 'Akká and go to another city called Damascus. He did not know what to do. He had to leave quickly and alone. What would happen to his family? Who would help someone who had lost the favor of the government? The Master heard the news and went to see him. He showered the unhappy man with great kindness, as if he had never been an enemy of the Faith. Not once did He mention his past wrongdoings. Instead, He offered to help him in whatever way possible. The ex-governor was worried about leaving his wife and children behind. 'Abdu'l-Bahá assured him that He would take care of the matter. Later He arranged for a comfortable trip, provided someone reliable to accompany the wife and children, paid for all the expenses, and sent the family on its way to Damascus.
When the ex-governor was reunited with his family, he rejoiced. With a heart filled with gratitude, he turned to the man who had traveled with his family and asked him about the cost of the journey. The man explained that it had been paid by 'Abdu'l-Bahá. Then the ex-governor offered him a present for his kindness and diligence during the journey. But he would not accept the present; he said that he was merely obeying 'Abdu'l-Bahá and did not wish to receive anything for his services. The ex-governor then asked the man to stay the night as a guest in his home. He said, however, that he was eager to follow the instructions of the Master, Who had told him to return to 'Akká without delay. The ex-governor asked the man to wait at least long enough for him to write a letter to 'Abdu'l-Bahá. This he accepted and upon his return to 'Akká delivered the letter to the Master. The letter read: "O 'Abdu'l-Bahá, I pray you to pardon me. I did not understand. I did not know you. I have wrought great evil on you. You have rewarded me with great good."
Other Stories:
Shaykh Mahmúd of 'Akká
Zillah Sultán and his Sons
The Unfriendly Governor
BALLOON ACTIVITY
Each person has a balloon. First, we are going to see what happens when we build anger up and don't forgive.
Someone calls out names of emotions (sadness, anger, hurt, resentment, impatience, pain…) and with each name you hear, you blow into your balloon until it becomes pretty big. Hold onto it. When gets big, then have everyone let go and release it.
Okay, now let's practice with forgiveness. Blow anger into the balloon. Now forgive- let it out, blow sadness into your balloon, now let it out. Blow frustration into your balloon, now let it out! GREAT JOB!
Children form a circle. Then ask:
What are some of the things your body feels when you feel angry or frustrated? One thing is that you might get really hot. I call those feelings "hot feelings" because sometimes your face can get red, you might feel a burning feeling in your stomach, and you might even feel like a volcano full of hot lava! When you touch something hot, do you want to hold onto it? No! You want to let it go as quickly as you can.
In this game, the ball/[potato is a "hot feeling." Pass it around the circle while the music plays, letting it go as quickly as you can.
When the music stops, everyone looks at the person holding the hot potato and says: "We're sorry!"
The person holding the ball puts it down and says, "That's okay. I forgive you." Then the game continues…
Tell the children to walk around randomly, while clapping and saying, "people to people". When you call out "back to back", they should stop, and each back up to a partner. On your signal, they start to move around again, clapping and saying "people to people". When you call out "face to face", they stop and each face a partner, bowing heads. The game continues in this way, with these two commands being repeated several times. Other commands can include "knee to knee" and "elbow to elbow".
Role Plays: What Forgiveness Looks Like
Invite kids to give responses and act them out. Ask, "What does forgiveness look like when . . ." (HAVE ON SLIPS THAT THEY PULL OUT)
Your friend accidentally broke your favorite toy
You did something you feel is very bad (forgiving yourself)
Your brother takes something of yours without asking
Your friend got angry and said something unkind to you and then apologized.
Someone keeps doing something hurtful to you over and over without being sorry*
*There are sometimes when forgiveness won't help someone change their behavior, and it isn't the only virtue you need to call on. While you can let go of the hurt feelings, sometimes, you need to stay away from that person (if you can) and stop giving tem the chance to hurt you. In these cases, respect for yourself and justice (making sure everyone is being treated fairly, including yourself) are just as important as forgiveness.
An Experiment
Here is an experiment to try to help illustrate forgiveness
Make a Paper Plane
Make 2 planes hiding a penny in one. They will look the same but not fly the same. Ask the children to look them over and figure out why. Explain "the airplanes are like us and the penny is when we hold a grudge. A grudge is when we hold bad feelings inside of us because of something someone did or said to us. These feelings can weigh us down and keep us from flying high.
Template for a paper plane here
Use the quote for the lesson (see below) in this craft idea Here is my template.
TEMPLATE FOR CRAFT
Tags Baha'i children class material, Baha'i Faith And Practicing The Virtues Of Cleanliness, children class, grade 1, GRADE 1 LESSON 11, LESSON 11, PRAYER, QUOTE, ruhi, Ruhi bk 3 children's class, Ruhi book 3, Ruhi book 3 grade 1, Ruhi Book grade 1, Ruhi Children Class, STORY